101 Ways to Draw a Rabbit

Photos ...

2012-02-22T17:49:00.001-08:00

Please double-click the images. IMHO, they look better that way.

Creativity in Our Day-To-Day Tasks.

2012-02-21T09:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was haircut day at the O and O residence...
I was motivated to tidy up Tom's scruffy hairdo since I am the stylist of choice in our household. I don't usually go too short, giving Tom the psychic leeway to hold onto his artist persona, but this time the scissors wouldn't let go of my hands and I kept cutting and cutting (somewhat to his dismay and vocal grumbling.)

Still, I am quite pleased with the results and I think that Tom is too.* And more importantly (yeah, really) is the fact that this was and remains a creative process for me. The art of the haircut is alive and well in homes like mine all across the ... mostly to save cash, but for me there is an added reason. You get my meaning, right? What I mean is that I was - because of the haircut that I fashioned/sculpted - a creative person yesterday. And that my role as a creative person, in the day-to-day world, is the raison d'etre and that I continue to carry on with this blog.

So without further ado ...

and here's the money shot ...

2012-02-06T09:46:00.000-08:00

Reasons why I love Tom: an early Valentine to my Beloved.

And big into those reasons is the fact that Tom brings home art supplies for me to play with. I have been playing with this postcard-sized Strathmore watercolor pad for a couple of weeks now. [I could blather or bluster on, but I'll let the few remaining pieces speak the volumes that are in my heart for you Tom.]

... snow day ...

2012-01-17T14:44:00.000-08:00

It's not snowing any longer but it still feels like a snow day.

I cleaned out the fireplace of ash and bought a duraflame log to start a fire if it gets to that.

I have plenty of red wine ... a fresh loaf of rosemary bread (storebought) ... and the makings for soup from the can plus a few fresh ingredients. That's snowfood (in case you were wondering.)

And I've slathered on a thick coating of acrylic paint plus molding paste (white + a touch of buff + a dab of pink over a very dark undercoat done ages ago when I thought that I'd be painting the night sky forever ... didn't happen, which - fortunately for me - cracks me up.)

Right now I am waiting for 'Red' to get to my sis's home in New Jersey. I am eager to hear the accolades that an artist longs to hear ... sometimes. (Just hope she doesn't read my blog first.) Oh, and I've been listening to Wilco - The Whole Love - and getting happy.

ps Ginger says "howdy!"

2012-01-10T09:10:00.000-08:00

isn't she luv'ly babe of mine ...

fyi, just started watching a cool collection of channeled messages on youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNsh4IPs2mc

ps do not look at the mess in the background ... lol. :P

Tom's Gig

2012-01-08T09:57:00.000-08:00

I'll let the pictures speak for themselves ... but I believe that everyone had fun and that Tom feels good about his first solo performance - original tunes via acoustic guitar - in quite a while.

2012-01-07T13:24:00.000-08:00

Just posted a new work blog with a book list of sorts for 2011, if you're interested.

Tom has a gig tonight at Enlighten Cafe, if you're interested. He'll be playing all original material ... solo ... acoustic guitar. I am getting geared up to take a few photos. We'll see how that turns out ...

This post is littered with likable links, but is this an alliteration?

Be seeing ya!

(and yes, I have posted this photo of Ginger b'4, I wanted something cute to grace this post, hence I risk the do-over.)

Happy First Day of the Year 2012!

2012-01-01T13:11:00.000-08:00

Like seeing the sunlight streaming in ... I decorated Tom's stocking and it is slightly disgusting in appearance (when up close and personal.)

Isn't Ginger the cutest?! She has crawled into Tom's guitar and scuffled around in there for a while on a few occasions. 

Our new family photo ... I hope you like. Just me, Tom, and Ginger.

We are thinking about getting a kitten sometime this year to keep us (all) company. About that: ring in with your opinions if you have any.

May this year prove to be the best ever for you and yours.

2011-12-14T12:53:00.000-08:00

"Frosted windowpanes, candles gleaming with light, la de da de da ... doh doh doh. Merry Christmas, may your New Year's dreams come true. And this song of mine, in three quarters time, wishes you and yours the same thing too!" Lots of holiday music is coming through my cerebral cortex and psi third eye ... it just happens this time of year ... it's in the air.. And I purchased a She & Him holiday cd that I L.I.K.E ... A LOT!!! Easy going tunes with a unique relaxed sound ... highly recommended to add to your holiday music collection.

But, I do also have a cd that Tom (my Tom) just made for the holidays and would gladly mail that to you (Lynn, Amanda, and Natsumi) for free ... just give me the word and it will be yours [Lynn, I still don't have your snail mail address :( ... ] or go to kickstarter.com and support his newest music project (only $10 gets you a free amazing cd of his inspired colaberation of music with his long-time friend Bob Elliot, entitled Dreamtown ... all one word, not to be confused with a project called Dreamtown.) You do have to go through a few hoops, but it's worth it; I can't speak highly enough about this project.

I am now going to upload a few photos (for both Amanda and Lynn and Natsumi ... who are my stalwart companions in blog-land ... I can't thank you enough for sticking with me. Do you feel the love?

So, now for the big test:

This is the book I used for the snowflake patterns ... not as easy as you'd think: especialy as the book is geared for younger readers and their parental untits.

At first I tried to put the snowflakes directly onto the wood slats behind, but that really washed them out, hence the choice of neutral grey in the background ... which I think works.

Stepping away from the display ...

Getting a close up of my oringinal design. Tom suggested the cottom balls to act as a frame, but I came up with using them for the collar. I feel pretty good about things. Even tho' the kid's face looks a bit chunkier than I had intended. All is well.

And finally, here Tom is trying to get our very own Gin-ger into the holdiday spirit, but the only way you can get her to stay still is to give her peanut butter ... or worse yet, accidentaly step on her.

I don't have good photos of the fudge (make 2 batches (?) so far), but I would gladly mail that rich concoction's recipie to any of you! My step g'ma - a wise woman - knew that sugar, evaporated milk, chocolate, butter, vanilla, and marshmallow cream was the way to my heart. Yum-yum-yummers!

There may have been some typos in this blog post, but I know that you will be cool.
Jan

bah humbug ...

2011-12-13T11:06:00.000-08:00

Simply cannot upload a photo ... not now ... not in the month or so since I last posted. Big sigh. :(

And I have truly missed connecting with my super wonderful blog pals and the aspect of show + tell of my life as an artist.

In the past month I have been doing some baking: 2nd year of making my step grandma's fudge, and a recipie for pumpkin cake (can you say bundt pan? love the bundt pan ...) that is amazingly moist and delicious and made with fresh cranberries. I like to give these treats away ... to let my worldly peeps know - deep in their bellies - that they are loved by me. Wish you were all closer so that I could walk over a treat for you and yours. :)

At work I designed a new display using super-sized snowflakes, designs came from a book on that, and the profile (on blue paper with black and white acrylic pens and cut up cotton balls) of a little girl sticking her tongue out to capture snowflakes. I was mostly pleased with that, but as a perfectionist ... well, you can guess.

Been thinking about all the books I have read this year (half by women authors and half by men) and tying things together in my head [I might just write me a blog on that (?)], and thinking about which books I want to commit to in the year 2012. Amanda Makepeace has been an inspiration to me in the realm of the good book. Thanks Amanda. :)

Well, that's it for now. Just wanted y'all to know that I was still alive and well (for the most part ...)

And if I don't post again before the upcoming holiday: Merry Merry!

response to comments from my last post

2011-10-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

Before ... (in closet, in my suitcase.)

Lynn, thanks for the feedback about reproduction quality. I know that to be true in the books I've read and seen about art/artists: you think that a painting looks one way and then you go to the art museum to see the piece and it looks COMPLETELY different. Amanda may be on to something in handling all her own reproductions.

I love the way you spell colour ... I went to English schools as a child and used to spell it that way. TMI? lol. :D

How's everything going for you otherwise? Good I hope! (No need to respond to this message ... just wanted to reach out.)

****** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *******

Amanda, yes it makes sense to do your own reproductions. If this had been MY calendar and not the bookstores then I would probably have done that. It wouldn't cost that much to do things that way ... although I might have had to resolve to do some pages by hand that way. Definitely something to think about.

How's the break treating you? Or are you up and running again? No need to respond to this post. Be well my friend! :D

After ... Peek-a-boo!

And then later when I couldn't for the life of me find her, she was sleeping inside the suitcase with all my alternate season clothes ... Happily Ever After.

My Baby: OUR CALENDAR IS OUT!

2011-10-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

Last year I came up with the idea that the artists who work at University Book Store should have a calendar of their own. And while I didn't get the green light then, I re-submitted my idea to the brass this year and it was accepted.

Both my and Tom's art now graces the 2012 UBS art calendar. Tom's painting (of moi!) adorns the cover and has it's own month, and my painting 'Red' is featured on one of the months' pages.

I was a bit disappointed in the reproduction value of my work, the color is definitely washed-out, but I've had to let go of my perfectionistic standards. Once the marketing department took over the project it was out of my hands. I am grateful that they were willing to go the distance. I am grateful for any opportunity to shine!

So, there you have it!

My blurb says: "I come from a long line of creative women. More recently my grandmother on my mother's side successfully competed in juried art shows as an abstract artist. I am primarily self-taught, and I have been focused on using acrylic paint for about five years. I am fortunate to have a brilliant artist as my life paratner, who helps me when I am a bit out of my element. His support means the world to me. If you like this piece, then please come and join me at my blog ..."

Double click to get an enlarged view of the cover below ...

Tom's blurb says: "Tom O'Brien earned his MFA from Johnson State College in Vermont. He is originally from the Bay Area and has lived and made art in Seattle since 2000. In addition to painting, Tom is a prolific sonwriter with over 100 songs to his credit, and is an aspiring author, having written two novels and many short stories. To see more of Tom's work, visit http://www.paintingtheearth.com/.

The cost of the calendar is: $15.99, and postage would be an additional cost.

Message to Lynn, Amanda, Natsumi ... and to anyone else who leaves comments here

2011-10-19T12:23:00.000-07:00

In the past week or so I have been prevented from leaving comments at my blog. So-so-so frustating not being able to acknowledge the few peeps, whom I value and esteem greatly, that visit me.

So, here goes:

Lynn, funny how your kids didn't know what a sasquatch was ... it's funny-interesting-not haha the generational way we learn about the world, even the fictional world. Thanks for showing up for me on a regular basis. Please email me your snail mail address so that I can send you a holiday card (edited.) Oh, and I like to send b'day cards too ... so send me your b'day date, if that's alright and not crossing a line. No worries if you don't want to do either.

Amanda-Panda, did you know that I l-o-v-e red pandas? And I luv u! Work has been challenging lately and making signs has been the stuff of my holding it together ... I am a renegade designer: unofficial, unpaid and waiting for the marketing department to shut me down. Seriously, anytime we put things up-without their sayso-they are subject to being taken down.

Natsumi, you didn't write to me but you usually do, so I say thank you for that. I hope that I can fix this current snafu of not being able to comment ... sigh. :(

Has anyone else had this problem? Does anyone know how to fix it? I guess that I will go with whatever works out to be the way of things ...

Namaste All,
Jan

ps Ginger says, "hello!"

SASQUATCH SIGHTING!!! (lol)

2011-10-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

More and more these days I am being called to make signs at work. One reason for that is that Anna Banana, who was soooo good at making signs has left ... she was a champion at lettering whereas I would say that that is my weakness. So often times I will use computer generated print-outs of text instead ... much, much easier.

This time around I was asked to make a sign for the Sasquatch nominees, a kid's book award given annually by the Washington Library Media Association. Hence I used the classic Sasquatch photo which doesn't have a lot of details ... and came up with this.

My Sasquatch seems to be a bit too neat and tidy ... like he's just been to the salon or the spa. This idea makes me laugh ... and I continue to entertain myself.
~Jan

Here's my latest work blog. :D

2011-10-11T12:43:00.000-07:00

http://universitybookstore.blogspot.com/

STAFF PICKS

2011-10-05T09:48:00.000-07:00

Creativity at work is where it's at, so when I get a chance to highlight a book as one of my picks (yes, I am a bookseller!) I do have a bit of fun. What you are about to see are a few of my *Staff Picks* that I've done over the years. It brings me joy to pull a few of my favs together for you to see and for me to reminisce over

Shadowcry, by Jenna Burtenshaw, was recommended to me by my dear blogpal Amanda Makepeace. I recommend following her blog because she has mighty good taste when it comes to books and she is a fine artist to boot:

http://almakepeace.wordpress.com/2011/10/05/art-through-time/

I LOVE MUTTS! (my new display ...)

2011-09-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the last seasonal display I posted? It may have been the 2010 kids' books halloweeeeen display ... I'm just not sure. This year I was again gently prodded into doing something to showcase kids' seasonal books, but this time I didn't want to do ghosties and bats and full moons, oh my, so I turned to one of my favorite (if not my only favorite) cartoon strips: MUTTS. I do so love the loose way Patrick McDonnell cartoons and brings joy into the day to day. In Stop and Smell the Roses, he featured a strip showcasing the return of pumpkins, and I decided to hand copy that strip. It took me hours: maybe I shouldn't admit that, but it's true. I sketched out a loose impression and then looked at the strip for heaviness of line, looseness, etc. I am proud of my end result. It feels, in a strange way, like an accomplishment. But no one at work seemed to get that this was a labor of love ... not at first ... they may have thought that I just photocopied the images. Don't worry: I summarily set them straight. LOL.

So, welcome to the Days of Pumpkins. And Ginger says, 'adieu!"

<3 Jan

* finally made the decision *

2011-09-14T11:28:00.000-07:00

Tom and I have decided* to keep this lil' girl ferret we've named Ginger ... sweet and spicey wrapped into one package.

We are not especially keen on her/the smell, which only ripens as ferrets get older ... more noteably males. So, be forewarned if you come to visit. (We will be buying some air fresheners ... got any suggestions?! lol.)

She is a squiggler ... it was hard to catch her in a pose that worked.We've already lost the cute bell collar that is shown. Bell collars are helpful to locating these curious creatures. I've asked Tom to buy a bunch of them.

And here I am being silly with her ... she has grown on me, but I was not entirely sure until today whether we would keep her. When I started to take her back to Petco, I found that I just didn't have the heart to do so. So, we now can enjoy and grow old with Ginger for the next seven or so years.

*Return policy was two weeks and today was the deadline.

... Synchronicity Experience ...

2011-09-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

(Originally posted this as a Seattle Psychic journal entry, at my SP blog.)

This past Thursday Tom and I went to the Frye to see the Gabriel von Max show, which was great. Before we arrived I felt compelled to pick up a little notebook that we have stashed in the car and start doodling. I started drawing circles with lines going out of them and otherwise, lines with boxes and circles connected to them, and a whole mishmash of symbolic-type shapes. I wondered about it, at the time, but then let it go.

Later, in the midst of looking at exhibit, I learned that, as well as being an animal rights activist, von Max was a spiritualist known to visit mediums. There are even photos of his family spoofing a table levitation experience. Funny and cool right?!

But what really rocks is that towards the end of the show there was a glass case that featured letters to his lover, who then became his wife. Apparently they had concocted a symbolic lovers language that they used in letters and notes to each other, and seeing that language expressly reminded me of my time spent doodling. I write this now probably because when I asked Tom, my doubting of psi (& all that it includes) partner, about the experience he did think that there was some kind of synchronicity going on.

Namaste,
Jan

ps yes, I spelled von Max's first name wrong ... at first ... sheesh!
pps Thank you Gabriel von Max for sending me a message. I am glad to know you, even just a little bit.

~scruffy sparrows~

2011-08-28T10:18:00.000-07:00

A new and hopefully profitable venture!

2011-08-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

(photo of 'Red' ... listed price may be $425 Canadian)

After what has been a looooooooooooooong wait, I now unveil my painting titled 'Red', which will be featured in the bookstore employee art calendar for 2012, coming out for sale in a month or so.

(photo of calendar cover art by Tom)

Tom's portrait of me putting sunflowers in a vase claims the calendar cover, and I couldn't be happier for him! He is truly deserving of (the) honor and the praise! As for me, I used the likeness of a young woman who works at a local consignment store (Thanks Vanessa!) and she has yet to see the painting, although I am aiming to show her the piece asap because it will be travelling to Canada this Friday (if all goes according to plans.)

www.paintingtheearth.com (See some of Tom's landscapes, simply go to his website.)

My friend Marjorie has just recently opened the Ploughman's Lunch, a delightful pub/cafe/restaurant, in Kamloops, BC, and she has plenty of wall space to feature artists such as Tom and I, who would like to sell some of their art. Tom has rounded up five of his landscapes for her to take, and I am including this painting ('Red') and the one I did featuring deep space and balls of light reminiscent of koi ('Space Fish') circling around a bright star. I am thinking about adding 'Space Kitty', yes I will do that unless my sister Laura wants to buy it. [She expressed interest in it, and I will call her today and offer it for sale to her ... hey, I'd give it away---like I usually do---if I wasn't so in need of some kind of additional income.]

The color lands somewhere between these two photos ... and there is a thickness and texture to the fish and the bright star that I like, wish that it'd show in photos like this, but it doesn't.

('Space Fish' priced at around $325 Canadian)

('Space Kitty' priced at about $295 Canadian)

I do have questions about pricing. My goal is to get these paintings of mine into good homes, of people who really enjoy the images that have come from spirit through me. Do you all have any feedback on the prices that I've listed? I do so appreciate hearing the truth from my friends, and I am not off put by directness, in fact I would prefer that.

Ta! Cheerio! Pip pip!

Jan

Rest in Peaceful Slumber sweet, sweet Beau.

2011-08-16T21:14:00.000-07:00

I opened my '101 Ways to Draw a Rabbit' blog with an introduction to Beau, our rather large dwarf rabbit (see my March 20, 2010 post.) And now, in what seems to be a blink of an eye, he is gone.

Truth be told, Beau was a part of Tom and my family for over four years. We rescued him from limbo, he was temporarily stationed at a farm (in less than desirable conditions) with the intention to find him a good home, and it was love at first sight for Tom and I.

I had to work through some of my issues, in the beginning, to get totally comfortable with our new domestic arrangement--we really couldn't/can't afford a pet, especially not one with any health issues--but once I did it was smooth sailing for all of us.

Beau kept Tom company, on his singular day off, during his creative music making sessions by nudging up to the edge of his pen and sometimes even hopping to make a point. He was quite vocal (in a subvocal way) about how much he loved Tom's music, encouraging him to dig deep to find the true note of his genius.

Early days had Beau hopping around quite a bit. There is nothing like a bunny hop: once airborne he twists his whole body back and forth and then comes down to the earth with gleeful abandon. Sometimes Tom and I had difficulty rounding the Beau-meister up: nothing clumsier than a human crouching down on the ground to get the bunny behind the couch or under the bed.

The photo I've included of us three, our happy family, took place this past Christmas. I normally don't do the whole gift-thang but it felt right to participate this year past. Beau joined us for champagne cocktails ... and our toast by the fire ... he said few words, but we listened for the true message of Christmas. What a wonderful moment in time for us all.

As I write this I am sad: I miss our bunny. But I am also glad (simple rhyme) for the time that we shared on this earth. I held him in my arms as he took his last labored breaths, nose no longer twitching, later we buried him under our neighbor's magical rose tree (much much bigger than a bush, generating amazing majestic blooms throughout a good part of the year), and we will gently spread some freshly harvested sunflower petals as a final ritual of parting.

Rest in Peaceful Slumber sweet, sweet Beau,
your mamma
and papasan

... been seeing hats?! ...

2011-08-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

I have noticed more hats in fashion magazines lately, and specifically those with straps under the chin. Maybe it's the repercussion of whole Royal Wedding experience and the fact that Brits like their hats wild and crazy and have for some time? Maybe it's just the dawning of the Age of Aquarius? Whatever the reason, I am posting a rendering of one that I sketched yesterday. Hope you like ...

The Art of Vacation ... or simply, why I haven't posted in a while.

2011-07-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

Before this (my being on vaca in North Carolina with my sibs and family) I was painting and painting and painting---mornings before work and evenings after work---to complete a picture. And I almost made it; almost finished the piece that I submitted (on the 12th, it was due on the 23rd but I was going to be out-of-town so my deadline was pushed up ... BIG sigh) for our employee first ever art calendar [which is my brain-soul-child.]

And even though I took photos of this almost-finished painting, I didn't want to post them here right before Tom and I took our leave. I am guessing that I will post them if I am one of the 12 artists selected to grace the calendar coming out this year. And yes, if I do make it onto the calendar, I will let y'all (a NC thang) know.

It has been hard, okay impossible, to silence my critic on this piece. I had such visions for its perfect completion and because I ran out of time and such I wasn't happy with the bunny that was included on said piece, nor did I get to adding on an item that I felt was integral to the piece. And me, of all people, not doing a good bunny is like me not even having a blog. Unheard of, but there you have it.

I-I-I ... I can't even get it out ... all that I've suffered for this silly little bit of canvas and acrylic ... suffered for my art (I am good at this suffering bit ... lol.) I spent about five days in pain: my stomach was swollen and ... won't go further with that, because even inquiring minds don't want to know. So, when I get back from vacation and then get done with one of my sister's engagement parties ... well, I guess, I will be painting and posting anew.

* * * my uncle's lily * * *

2011-06-21T09:47:00.000-07:00

what appeared to me as a weed, since I didn't plant it for this year, was a lily ... good thing I don't weed because this beautiful orange lily bloomed on the day of my uncle's transition/death. and i took the idea of this bloom on the bus with me, with my sketch pad and color pencils ... some water color pencils too. i wonder if my aunt will want this or would she feel like i was intruding with my new agey ideas ... i hold back because i feel that it might be the later. still i wanted to share, and share i shall:

* * * My Uncle Bob * * *

2011-06-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

May you rest in peaceful slumber. May you know the true forgiveness of your transition to someplace else. May you know how much I loved you and know that you made and make a difference in my life.

Robert Olander

passed June 18, 2011

* * * dreamt about being a fashion designer* * *

2011-06-13T23:45:00.000-07:00

The top of the gown is the most impt part.It is made of organic matter ... cabbage-like leaves overlapping each other and cleaving around the woman's curvature.The veins of the plant leaves are colored red like you'd see if a person had translucent skin and their blue blood shone through. The rest of the dress is somewhat understated with a dark, maybe navy blue satin fabric, material.

In the dream I remembered this morning, it was urgent--life or death--that a fashion designer person, hired at the last minute(?), come up with a gown for some royal personage. If not last minute then here was a time dely. The F.P. wasn't sure they could do it, but they pulled it out of their hat after they came up with the main material to start with. In the end it/the dress* was a supreme success, but there wasn't much time to appreciate the accomplishment before the next task/dress was assigned.

So, I can pull it out in a clutch, but apparently I am not very good at resting on my laurels? Dream therapists? Anyone?

Nighty night!

*the dress sketch that I did on the bus this morning with limited materials.

Second painting in my 'Night Sky' series ...

2011-06-06T09:21:00.000-07:00

Took me close to a month to return to my blog with new art. I have another project in the works, but it has a long way to go yet ... so, I wonder, will it be another month before I post anything again. Hmmm? Don't know, but do like that I can keep track of my productivity or lack there of (?!) somewhere.

(Below) I still need to fix a few spots that feel out-of-balance and varnish the painting for overall even color, but I am feeling pretty good about this image. I painted lots and lots of circles which made and makes me happy: I could and may well paint circles for the rest of my painting life ... is it circles? or is it round shapes that could be more? orbs? yes, orbs feels right!!! :O)

This morning finds me feeling blah & less than inspired ... mostly by myself. I watched a few episodes of TrueBlood (season three) after my employer banquet last light and that somehow makes me feel like I am wasting my life on moments that won't add up to anything. Been on such a loooong manic swing, so I may be on the cusp of the swing down that brings me back to the dreaded D (again.) Me and D go waaaaaaaaaay back ... we are old-old-OLD friends. So I don't really need to make this a long visit. Just a catch-up with old friends. Maybe take a few photos ... do a portrait of D ... that kind of thing.

But I do need to order more meds this morn' and they are expen$ive even with bennies. I don't know how this cat is going to make it in the long run. I spend more than I earn consistently. Hmmmmm. Maybe if I finish this series I will be able to sell the paintings? But that seems to be about eight months plus away at the rate I am going.

Fortunately there is a canvass $ale and employee $hopping day coming up. I am going to buy about 20 canvasses (what I want to do anyhow), varnish, paint, paint brushes, etc. with money I don't have. Maybe the universe will shower the funds down on my head in some mysterious way?! I won't hold my breath, but I will keep an open mind for that possibility.

Namaste fellow travellers,
Jan

Night Sky Series #1

2011-05-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

I need to make some money. I just had a very pricey visit from Proactive, computer peeps, who came by to remove some nasty viruses from our computer: can you say working poor. Sigh. I have a vision of completing 10 or more paintings with night sky as the theme ... and I want to keep them playful, using my intuition to guide me as to what to paint. Feeling good about this idea ... it taps into my kid-self and joy.

... "Here she goes. Here she goes again." ...

2011-04-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

"Here she goes. Here she goes again." And I'm feeling good about things, this particular painting, which is a somewhat rare occurence.

I could jabber on, but I will let the images speak for themselves.

... almost finished ...

2011-04-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

Working with acrylic can be challenging .. I have been looking for a way to make Grace's skin creamier, but (so far) I just haven't found the right combination of materials. I am almost finished with her portrait, I just want to lay down a consistent and somewhat realistic color on top ... and pull in the background.

... A Lovely Drawing Session with Jennifer Malone ...

2011-04-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

What a treat to get to draw from life. Tom, my beloved, set-up a session with a live model named Jennifer Malone (an art student herself) and included me in the process. I haven't drawn a stranger from life in aeons and this was a wonderful opportunity for me. Jennifer had such a great vibe and sat *mostly* still through the process which was lovely.

I stayed around for two 50 minute sessions and left to watch the last episode of the first season of 'The Good Wife', an excellent tv show by Ridley Scott,etal. starring Julianna ... uhm, Margules, no, Margulies, Josh Charles, Christine Baranski, Matt Czuchry, Archie Panjabi, ... it totally captivated me and I watched for hours on end. (You can see why my hiatus has been fraught with conflict. lol.)

But back to art ... I loved spending time drawing like that. And I could've painted but I chose to use my handy, and safe, color pencils. Part of me feels like I whimped out with doing that ... and that I should've picked up the paint brush and committed to the process. No matter, I will have another opportunity for that because I intend to have my b-store models come over for the purpose of drawing and painting them. I have already asked Grace, and I will ask the others too.

So, once again my sleeves are rolled up and I am ready to face the present moment of my creative process. Thanks for hanging in with me y'all. I love each and every one of you.

... i am ... back (whisper, whisper)

2011-04-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

while i have been gone, on my hiatus, i have done much less art work. so i am ... (ahem) back. i write this as a whisper, because it is such a not big deal ... just a part of my fine-tuning process. thanks, my friends, for going through the motions of my (creative) life with me. i sure do appreciate all of your support. ta!

* HIATUS *

2011-03-11T19:42:00.000-08:00

I love blogs and blogging ... I love the pals that I've made on the Blog Frontier (background music: "Davy, Davy Crocket, King of the Wild Frontier!" lol.) ... you know who you are!

But, but, but, but. I need to take a break--for an undetermined amount of time--so that I can get moving, moving, on my project. So, hiatus it is.

I hope that you will remember me kindly during this break. I will likely be jones-ing for the connection and feedback, but I may still visit your posts and make mini-blog entries? Am I backpeddling already??! ... gosh, this is tough.

One day at a time ... one step at a time ... one small step for ...
I love you guys!!!
Jan

ps I'll still be blogging at work: www.universitybookstore.blogspot.com and maybe at my intuition blog ... not sure about the later.

... Getting Started ...

2011-03-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

lll

Just at the beginning of my next project and already (silly me) I feel conflicted: I am coming to believe that this just may be the way of things for me when I am in the beginning of my creative process ... at least for a while. What am I hearing inside? That I don't want to push them out, these paintings, just because I can. That's the tough part about having a natural ability (not trying to sound too big for my pants, but I have always been able to draw), it sometimes feels like a cheat.

My guess is that I am a little afraid of the hard work ahead, yes I do have the natural tendency for laziness, and that I am coming in contact with my archnemesis Resistance. It can be so noisy upstairs (in my head), when I am doing something that might make me feel good in the long run, that I really think I should start into a process of meditation. Fortunately there is a book coming from the library that just might help me with that. More later on that.

And I have already decided to get working on more than one painting at once, so as to confuse Resistance. Then I can write and report that I have foiled it again! (Take that, and that, and that, Resisitance! Feeling a bit like Zorro, or perhaps in my case Zorra ... lol.)

... Belated Birthday card ...

2011-02-23T15:35:00.000-08:00

One of the people I work for is into Jane Austen and merry ol' England. So, because I missed her birthday (by a few days) I decided to sketch a little picture of the heroine and make it into a card. The scanner doesn't show the subtlety of a colored pencil and ink sketch, but that doesn't matter ... not really for my purpose here, which is to share what I dashed off on the bus today.

"Ah! There is nothing like staying at home, for real comfort." ~ Jane Austen

... Finished Product ...

2011-02-21T11:18:00.000-08:00

I haven't found the perfect light to photograph this painting in: some photos show the red of the yin/yang as black, while others don't show off the golden Buddha to its full effect, etc. But I trust that you all have good imaginations and can see what the photo doesn't do justice to. I am pleased, so very pleased to be finally finished with this project. Can't wait to start into a new set of ideas.

Ta ta for now!

Groovy feelin' ...

2011-02-17T19:49:00.000-08:00

So, although I am not done, it seems that I have gotten over my initial hurdle. I am definitely getting a groovy feelin' now and would stay up to paint if I lived alone. As it is, having a partner in life helps me to make more balanced (sane?) life decisions. Much better, don'tcha think? Will share more after I get closer to done. [Thanks Eloise for being patient with me & sending good vibes!]

Happy Valentine's Day World!

2011-02-13T19:36:00.000-08:00

(original art by me 2.12.11)

Back in the saddle again? ... singing "yippie tai yai yay, get along little doggies, it's your misfortune and none of my own!"

2011-02-10T12:01:00.000-08:00

I am writing to all of you who suffer from perfectionism ... at least sometimes. I was just not-not-NOT happy with my near finished portrait of Eloise ... so I whited it out. Now I wonder if I will ever finish this piece. I have to put it away (for the time being) because this project has become much too precious for it's own good. Sigh.

So, am I a failure? You decide. Tom thinks that I should be able to push through all of this ... he knows the meaning of pushing on through ... until you get to that point where you can accept your own brilliance. Or perhaps you get to the point where you see that you are in the midst of doing bad ... "bad-to-the-bone" ... art?

Any feedback on how y'all handle this kind of setback ... I am not bleeding, but I am in a bit of psychic pain. Now I am off to do my taxes ... oh my!

(Re-watched 'Julie & Julia' last night ... what a treat Meryl Streep is ... in that role ... so beautiful and so gosh darn talented, right?! I love her. And I love Stanley Tucci in his role as her hubby. What a fine pair they make!!!)

what I've been working on so far in progression:

2011-02-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

Laying down the gist of shape and size (above) ...

Adding some depth and tonality ...

Connecting to a serene image and head space ...

Adding more color ...

And more color ... until this is what I arrived at last night.

I am not feeling satisfied with how things have gone so far, but then that may just be the nature of this project. In painting a portrait that I will be sending to the (absent) sitter, I feel the pressure to make things pretty and pleasing. And honestly, I don't know if I will ever be truly peaceful with what I come up with at this juncture. Fortunately this painting will eventually abide in England ... so I will (likely) never see it again.

Tomorrow night, when I have more acrylic glazing liquid, I will be adding some red to flesh things out and then I will get going with the rest ... the symbols of spirit. I can imagine being done in about a week. Ta!

Excuses, excuses, excuses ...

2011-02-05T13:15:00.000-08:00

Still working on the same painting and I have been taking photos of my progress, just not yet able to upload those pics onto my computer. I even went to radio shack to buy a new cable---thinking that maybe the connection points were loose---but that wasn't it. Sigh.

I will piddle around a little bit more before I resort to other less direct options. May the force be with me.

... angel card readings from Eloise ...

2011-01-20T11:14:00.000-08:00

step 2. adding the base colors ... for my painting exchange.

This from Eloise's professional website, http://www.seraphinatempleoflight.com/

"Eloise Bennett has been reading cards professional for 14 years and has clients world wide.

She is a qualified Angel therapy practitioner(TM) and has successfully completed the mediumship programme by Doreen Virtue Ph.D.

Eloise believes we all create are own destiny and nothing is set in stone due to free will. Having an angel card reading is like looking at a map it shows many path ways and opportunities.

Angels show us the highest pathway so the individual can then take responsibility for their life's journey and with guidance from the angels achieve and manifest their goals.

Eloise connects to the Angels, Archangels and Ascended Masters in an hour reading and combines her psychic, intuitive, and mediumship skills to guide people on their life path for their highest good."

Go to the website if you want details about how much she charges, and what else she might offer, it is really (for this kind of reading) quite reasonable.

I am quite excited to receive a reading, and I will post it here (as long as the info isn't too personal) or at my other blog, when Eloise reads for me on the 3rd of February. Now I have to get my act together and get working on my piece for her.

Be seeing ya!
Jan

ps I also do psi readings, but I don't usually charge for them ... rather I am open to doing exchanges. If you want more info from me about that, then please go visit my other blog: http://www.playfulside.blogspot.com/.

I like to do exchanges...when they work out that is!

2011-01-17T09:36:00.000-08:00

So, I am in the midst of doing an exchange with a woman named Eloise, who does Angel card readings and whom has been recommended by my psi friend the Goddess-Christina. I have pencilled out (vs. pencilled in. lol.) this preliminary sketch that is now up for her approval. She may not like it and I am okay with that. What do you all think?

Moser, I haven't forgotten...

2011-01-14T18:49:00.000-08:00

W-e-l-l I almost forgot...hehehe. But I didn't. I. (still) O.U. one card.
Jan

Springy Hair...

2011-01-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

It been quite a while since I've attended the West Seattle based art group, but they finally have a meeting on an evening that I can attend so I think that I'll give it a go. It feels like I have a lot of irons in the fire now for art projects: ranging from an exchange (barter) to the idea for my first ever show (that I haven't been invited to yet, but am feeling that I will be once they get ahold of my marvellous portfolio...I am not bragging...I've been keeping busy and am feeling confident.)

It all feels rather exciting and also a bit daunting. For the daunting bit I am using the council of 'The Path of Least Resistance' and doing (something) just before I think that I am ready. The premise is that if we wait until we are ready, then the time and momentum have already passed. Robert Fritz wrote a good book about being the Primary Creative Force in our own lives, and I recommend his book heartily (even though it's been over a decade since I read it last.)

The theme for this month's Art Group is 'Springy Hair,' and I have someone in mind who has the kind of hair that fits that description to a T! Now I have to see if she's willing to be my model...she might not consent...we shall see.

Wish me luck!
Jan

Not quite in focus...

2011-01-10T09:52:00.000-08:00

I have redone the face on this illustration, a number of times, and just can't seem to get it quite right. Nor do I seem to be able to get the photo of it in focus. Still...it's something.

Marie Antoinette rode on the bus with me.

2011-01-04T09:12:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true. But my Marie is a curly red-head dressed up for the ball (eventho' you can't see her dress) with a thin, almost sheer, green mask. I am, this year, going to post almost everything I put pen/pencil/paint to just because I feel that is what my creative self needs to keep momentum going. Bear with me okay?!

My creative juices are flowing!

2011-01-02T15:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, I can feel it (my creative juices flowing)...or am I experiencing a Manic High? Most likely both!!!

So, hold onto your seats y'all...this is going to be one wonderful ride this year!

Love and all other good stuff!
Jan

Mo, I haven't forgotten about you!

2010-12-22T10:31:00.000-08:00

I plan to do something for you Mo, and I am now open to inspiration on just what that will be. I anticipate that I might not get started on this, my last card project, until the new year.

All my love,
Jan

And again...

2010-12-22T10:12:00.000-08:00

Since Tom told me that my hedgie looked angry and fierce I have done some minor-minor adjustments.

Michelle's card...

2010-12-20T10:54:00.000-08:00

Here s/he is...a porcupine with a heart just for Michelle.

This little project has taken me a lot longer than you'd expect. But I am finally ready to mail it out.

Can I hear a "HO?"

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Jan

Idle?

2010-12-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

Nope, I haven't been idle...it just seems like that. I am still working, struggling, aaagrh, through my effort to make a cute card for Michelle-ita...if you can believe it. Darn it, it is taking too long and I am much too serious about this silly lil' piece. But there you have it. The whole artisitic struggle encapsulated into my desire to make something live up to standards that no one else is holding me to. Pssshaw.

I made fudge from my step grandma's recipie (thank you g'ma! now deceased...who always made me and my sibs feel welcomed! love you), for a Christmas party that I went to, and it turned out good. Would've taken photos, but fudge isn't usually exactly translatable photographically...it looks brown...or pinkish brown like mine did. LOL. But really, something off about the color. So, I spared you all.

Just yesterday, I entered my orange-haired lovely into the current Saatchi Online Artist Showdown. I wonder how it'll do? But I appreciate y'all who've already gone there to offer support. I feel like I'm onto something.

Check it out or not:
http://www.saatchionline.com/

And now, I bid you adieu...but I will stop by again before taking off to sunny California for the break.
Jan

Tomoko's card...well, sort of a card enlarged...

2010-11-28T10:34:00.000-08:00

Tomoko, just as I picked Amanda's image intuitively, I found your visual the same way. A photo that I have admired popped up to the top of my pile and said, "pick me, pick me!" Oh those crazy, drunken, dancing geisha...lol.

(An Akasaka geisha is transformed into alluring shojo--a red-haired, sake-drinking monster--in the Tokiwazu piece of the same name. >>> But in this case I have changed the hair to a more orange colored shade to shift the energy from daemon to demigod, that and the fact that I love orange.)

Hope u like Tomoko?! :)

A Deep Gratitude! (...on the eve of the North American holiday called Thanksgiving...)

2010-11-24T11:31:00.000-08:00

I feel a deep gratitude for all of you (that visit me here.)

It originates in my heart...and from there it spreads to the farthest regions of the uberverse.

May you know the love that I am sending to each and every one of you!

Namaste,
Jan

First card completed...

2010-11-19T08:55:00.000-08:00

This is Amanda's card. I struggle with perfectionism, among other things, but I am going to call it quits on this effort. Only three more to go, and then a barter exchange (a piece of art for a reading) that I've agreed to! The part above the white magnet is not included, rather it is an image from my exquisite John William Waterhouse calendar.

I hope that you like your card Amanda? It will be put in the mail today!
Ta! Jan

LIMITED TIME OFFER EXPIRED...

2010-11-12T08:30:00.000-08:00

I w-i-l-l be making cards for:
Amanda
Tomoko
Moser
and Michelle (fb friend who was unable to post here)

I started to make cards yesterday & the day before but instead made a big BIG mess. Sigh. So, puleez don't hold your breath y'all. In fact I may post something else in the meantime. I do better when I pretend that I don't have any deadlines, etc. I am the poster child for procrastination central sometimes...waaah! :)

limited time offer...free card sign-up :)

2010-11-04T14:35:00.000-07:00

...this is the most recent birthday card that I've made. and when I went to record it photographically, I set it in my kirigami page-a-day box and this is what came up with. I like the ring-of-light reflection and the many dancing orbs. does the light (special effects) make you feel happy?! well, I for one am happy. :)

...and so, for a limited time, I offer you a free handmade card (not this one) which will get to you at some time in the near future. just give me your name and snail mail address. if you feel uncomfortable leaving that info here, then simply reach out to me at janiceolander@hotmail.com, but give me the heads up here that you have done so.

I love snail mail...the physical world of textures, stamps, fingerprints and all such stuff. c'mon, what do you have to lose?

... three days of mania brings ...

2010-11-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

1. just started reading Julia Cameron's Finding Water, the third in her Artist's Way series. Found a bargain copy, which felt like flow to me. I think that it's going to be helpful. More to come in future posts.

2. baked a second batch of biscotti, enough to share with my sister MoSer 'cuz she's wonderful

3. made some killer burritos---with rice and cheese and ground turkey and onions and garlic and black beans and spinach---enough to share with friends who seemed to like them

4. saw some clouds in the sky this morning and they reminded me of a running bunny...like Beau but white (quickly sketched out in my small travel notebook with color pencils)

I expect that I will be coming up with some new material in the next day or two, so be sure to visit again soon.

...lost interest along the way, but you no doubt get the gist...

2010-10-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

...Display at Work for Hallow's Eve...

2010-10-18T09:39:00.000-07:00

...as the bat flies out over the moon shrouded landscape, the dapper ghosts get ready for the party...

I not sure what to think of the display that I created...perhaps you have a word or two to let me know what you think?

...of the city...

2010-10-14T09:49:00.000-07:00

city nest,

city crows,

and a city girl.

There are so many stories in the city...sometimes that is invigorating, and other times it is overwhelming. The day (10.13.10) I shot these photos the sun was shining and the world was my oyster...

Namaste.

my bookmark...a work in progress

2010-10-13T10:53:00.000-07:00

I know that you can't read this piece, and reading it is vital. Here's what has happened so far.

I was asked by Caitlin, my coworker in the Kids, Sci-fi & Fantasy section of the bookstore, to develop a bookmark that would feature some of my favorite female sci-fi/fantasy writers. At first, I thought that I might be stepping on Duane's (sci-fi guru and section head) toes, and then I thought, 'why the frex not?!' I don't always get the opportunity to be creative at work--although it comes more often than one might think for me, a mere bookseller--and why shouldn't I give it a go.

So, here's the beginning of my work-in-progress. I have chosen five female author's whose work in the field is exemplary and inspiring for me. I had many to chose from, but stuck to the author's who had first lines that would draw you (the reader) in. And then I made it a game of matching up the first lines to the author's name and work. All you have to do is to look at the bottom of the bookmark to get the answers, they're upside down and in fine print, but I am hoping that you will go to the shelves and pick-up the books instead. Because first lines can grab you and pull you toward collisions with greatness. Oh how I love to read. Oh how I love to share that love with others. Hey, maybe that's why I work at a bookstore?! lol.

Please let me know if you find yourself in the stacks...here is what I posted:

"It was a dumb thing to do, but it wasn't that dumb."

"QUESTIONS, ALWAYS QUESTIONS."

"Hanging by his heels and twisting slowly in the draught that had slipped beneath the crimson door, Detective Inspector Chen tried desperately to atract the demon's attention."

"I LOST AN ARM ON MY LAST TRIP HOME."

"Sitting with his back against the sun-scorched rimrock, Jeremy made the dragonfly appear in the air in front of him."

SEE WHAT i MEAN? fabulous first lines! :)

Authors and Titles involved:

Octavia K. Butler, Kindred

Liz Williams, Snake Agent

Robin McKinley, Sunshine

Mary Rosenblum, Water Rights

Elizabeth Moon, The Speed of Dark

I will post again on this if I ever make it to print with my bookmark. Wish me luck!

.........................................................................

2010-10-12T13:05:00.000-07:00

I just fell in love with Goni Montes' artwork. I was visiting the lines and colors blog (highly recommend), http://www.linesandcolors.com/, when I saw their most recent post featuring him.

My heart is full, and if I could post the images here I would...just to make it easier on you. But rest assured the effort on your part will be worth it.

yes is a world

& in this world of

yes live

(skilfully curled)

all worlds

~ee cummings, aka
Edward Estlin Cummings

Namaste and love to all who go here, there & everywhere for what will reside in their aching and swelling hearts...

Adventures in Biscotti Making

2010-10-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

Using the recipie out of the newly released cookbook 'cookie swap...la la la' (will get the full title & author if anyone is interested.)

I took these photos before I cut into the cookie log for the final bake, and thus far it all seems quite easy...so much so that I attempt to bake them in my far from adequate kit-kit-kitchen. My kitchen is so sorry that even the onions cry. My kitchen is so sorry that... Jokes?! If you come up with another kitchen joke, please feel free to share here.

Let the good times roll...

Jan

ps Tom says the 'scotti tastes good...I am waiting until the Hen gathering this evening to taste the fruits of my labor. :)

birthday cards

2010-10-07T11:03:00.000-07:00

This year I've been trying to make cards each time someone close to me has a birthday, but I've been running behind, perhaps in reaction to what my aunt Celeste told me. She said that she and uncle Bob had been having a laugh every time they'd receive a card from me because said cards were usually sent a month ahead of time.

I don't know why that made me feel bad. Silly really, right?!

Still I press on with sending these special cards...hoping that the receiver experiences a moment of connection with me. The following is not a card, but it could very well be because it is light and not a serious exploration into the realm of art:

drawing with my words ...

2010-09-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

I just applied for a position that I am not totally qualified for.

There are times when words come out spontaneously, and when they do it feels like flow ... like living art. I experienced that flow in filling out the requisite paperwork:
1. Why are you interested in this particular position?
My supervisor brought the position sheet to my attention & I felt honored that she saw me in a creative light. I am a fundamentally creative person. And as I wrote to a friend of mine, "I would like to come into bloom at the bookstore and I am looking for the right vase."

How would your skills and abilities enable you to do this job successfully?
As Mr. Edison conveyed, to do anything well it takes "99% perspiration and 1% inspiration." I am a go-to, go-do kind of person. I bring the kind of eagerness that gets things done. And my artist's eye is wide open. Please visit my blog ...

There is definitely some mundane stuff that was included on this form, but there's really no need to post that. The gist--the juice--has already been shared. I believe that taking these kinds of leaps is the ultimate test (not sure that test is the right word) of life ... Can you keep on putting yourself out there, without over-thinking, without even considering all of the NO's that you might be hearing? Can you rally for yourself ... over and over again?

Thanks Kathy Wright ... you rock! I am honored to call you my (work) friend and would be happy to extend the friendship into the beyond
.
And thanks to anyone else who may be reading this and witnessing my life.

Jan

Harry's Art Blog

2010-09-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

My new blogpal Harry is a budding photographer ... able to put his friends at ease while taking their pictures ... and able to see the world fresh. I asked him if I could use a couple of his photos as fodder for my drawing here, and he consented. This is what I came up for this week's adventure into illustration (thanks Harry!)

For the discerning eye: this is not a flamingo, rather it is a pink swan ... yes, I know, the mythical pink swan! (Thanks to Tom for pointing out that flamingos and swans really do look quite a bit alike ... uh huh, yeah. :P

Lost Weekend

2010-09-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

Hey all you creative people out there,

I had a Lost Weekend (not the boozing kind, but lost nonetheless.) That's what happened to me, and 'tis the reason why I didn't post.

I don't want to make those times the predominant pattern, so I am now committing myself to posting something this Wednesday or Thursday. Something = a piece of art ... quality does not enter into the equation.

signed in imaginary red blood,
Jan

what I was working on before ...

2010-09-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

Hey sports fans ... I am doing better than I thought I would be & am here to show Tomoko my stitches and the rest what I was working on before ... sorry for those who are squeemish. Ta!

2010-08-30T09:41:00.000-07:00

Injured my hand: which speaks for itself ... but perhaps I will have Tom take a photo of my stitches before they're removed? Naw, they're kinda Frankenstein-ish. So, no drawing for a week or so ... and no new posts for a while.

drawing children

2010-08-18T11:59:00.000-07:00

It is a whole 'nother thing to draw children ... takes a bit to perfect it ...

Help someone, I am in a color pencil rut. Time to take out the big guns ... time to paint or collage or somehow put more color out there.

Julia Margaret Cameron's Women

2010-08-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

That's the title of the book that I am using now as my reference point. Awesome awe-inspiring amazing photos ... with the most excellent (helpful to an artist) lighting ... the photos remind me of John William Waterhouse's paintings and more.

Maybe I need a longer middle name to be part of the lineage? Jan Cecelina Bisesi? Using my grandmother's maiden name and a made-up middle ... just goofing around, but I do like the last name, and wouldn't mind cleaving myself from the Olander claim to pain and suffering.

Muse?

2010-08-11T15:14:00.000-07:00

Been playing around with the idea of a muse ... can I be my own muse?

I like to use photographs of peeps: I could as easily use live models but it doesn't often happen that I have them available to me on a spur of the creative moment.

So here were a few photos that I took of myself thinking about myself being my own muse. Does it work? I don't know. Perhaps ... perhaps not.

ephemeral

2010-08-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

Doesn't exist anymore at this stage ... just here in photo form.

hello Queen Victoria ...

2010-07-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

waiting in the doctor's office you can usually find an assortment of rag tag magazines ... and from one I spotted a lovely miniature copy of a painting that pulled me in:

2010-07-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

Made this card in 2008 ... it felt important at the time ... and I know why still.

The words that I wrote on the back were:

"Coming in emptyhanded,

Going out emptyhanded.

What is your original face?

The moon is shining everywhere."

by Zen Master Seung Sahn

beautiful, aren't they?

I feel that I may be a posting madwoman today ... but then what's the harm of that?

Namaste.

2010-07-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

Drew this a while ago ... during my jury duty or lack of being called to a jury (they definitely do have their reasons with me ... the non-conformist, etc.) Hope you like it. Me, I love my white bunny ... I added some (white) acryllic paint to the bun to punch out the image, otherwise the drawing was color pencil based.

2010-07-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

The thing about color pencils is that it takes so very long to come up with a completed image. Layering and unlayering and choices of color that may initially work and then don't ... especially if you are a color adventurist. So, this is a study. A study it may stay because I was working from a photograph from a book of photos that I got at the library and then had to return. Still I enjoyed to returning over and over to this piece to fiddle and play with the image. I may take another photo of this if I go back in.

a water piece ...

2010-06-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

Don't know why it struck my fancy to play with a water scene, but here you have it ... I like the way that color and light and gravity all shift and express themselves in different ways.

My new drafting table and chair!!!

2010-05-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

The universe loves me and I love everyone. Yes, I am having a manic-positive (zoom, zoom, zoom-a-zoom) day ... and everything is going my way. Hello all!

Tom wanted to go to Daniel Smith to pick-up some varnish and latex gloves for his oil painting and I went along. Just as we were leaving Tom noticed a chair being left outside and then a drafting table. I opened the car door to ask the man putting them out if they were free to claim and he said yes. [I'll have you know that I have been wanting one of these table sets for some time now ... and boom! they have landed at my feet and become mine.] So thanks universe. Thanks Tom for helping me load them in the car and up to our apartment! And, of course, Beau thank you for allowing me to move your habitat a bit so that I can see through the sliding glass door glass when I create. Oooowuh, I am so psyched. And, ssssh, I am supposed to be creating now and not here at the computer sharing with you.

And Hey-Ho Mo-ser! I am sooo happy to see that you came to visit. Your comments fill me with joy! and positive anticipation.

Kauai aloha!

2010-05-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

Showed my (this) art blog to Pat (Tom's bro) and Rebecca (Pat's wife and Tom's sister-in-law), who both live in Kauai and hosted our approximately 5 day visit to/in paradise. Seems that I have no pride whatsoever ... dragging peeps to look see (here) and then sticking them with my harangue surrounding it.

Still, I hope to be getting out some new pieces in the next few months (after our return from Kauai.) Thanks to you Rebecca, for your sincerely kind interest.

Aloha!

some of my former artwork ... in no particular order ...

2010-04-12T14:11:00.000-07:00

Double click the images, to get the fullest view, or you will find that the images have been cropped.

2010-03-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

This is the--rather large--dwarf rabbit that inspires me ... meet Beau! It can be challenging to draw a black bunny, but I can enter into a lighter, more laissez-faire, creative space when I think of silly bunnies hopping about (when they're happy, that is!)

Two movie rabbits or hares of note: the 'Beatrix Potter,' flick with Renee Z. and 'Amazing Grace.'

101 Ways to Draw a Rabbit

Photos ...

Creativity in Our Day-To-Day Tasks.

... snow day ...

Tom's Gig

Happy First Day of the Year 2012!

bah humbug ...

response to comments from my last post

***My Baby: OUR CALENDAR IS OUT!***

Message to Lynn, Amanda, Natsumi ... and to anyone else who leaves comments here

SASQUATCH SIGHTING!!! (lol)

Here's my latest work blog. :D

***STAFF PICKS***

I LOVE MUTTS! (my new display ...)

*** finally made the decision ***

... Synchronicity Experience ...

~scruffy sparrows~

A new and hopefully profitable venture!

Rest in Peaceful Slumber sweet, sweet Beau.

... been seeing hats?! ...

***The Art of Vacation ... or simply, why I haven't posted in a while.***

* * * my uncle's lily * * *

* * * My Uncle Bob * * *

* * * dreamt about being a fashion designer* * *

Second painting in my 'Night Sky' series ...

Night Sky Series #1

... "Here she goes. Here she goes again." ...

... almost finished ...

... A Lovely Drawing Session with Jennifer Malone ...

... i am ... back (whisper, whisper)

*** HIATUS ***

... Getting Started ...

... Belated Birthday card ...

... Finished Product ...

Groovy feelin' ...

Happy Valentine's Day World!

Back in the saddle again? ... singing "yippie tai yai yay, get along little doggies, it's your misfortune and none of my own!"

what I've been working on so far in progression:

Excuses, excuses, excuses ...

... angel card readings from Eloise ...

I like to do exchanges...when they work out that is!

Moser, I haven't forgotten...

Springy Hair...

Not quite in focus...

Marie Antoinette rode on the bus with me.

My creative juices are flowing!

Mo, I haven't forgotten about you!

And again...

Michelle's card...

Idle?

Tomoko's card...well, sort of a card enlarged...

A Deep Gratitude! (...on the eve of the North American holiday called Thanksgiving...)

First card completed...

LIMITED TIME OFFER EXPIRED...

limited time offer...free card sign-up :)

... three days of mania brings ...

...lost interest along the way, but you no doubt get the gist...

...Display at Work for Hallow's Eve...

...of the city...

my bookmark...a work in progress

.........................................................................

Adventures in Biscotti Making

birthday cards

drawing with my words ...

Harry's Art Blog

Lost Weekend

what I was working on before ...

drawing children

Julia Margaret Cameron's Women

Muse?

ephemeral

hello Queen Victoria ...

a water piece ...

My new drafting table and chair!!!

Kauai aloha!

some of my former artwork ... in no particular order ...

My Baby: OUR CALENDAR IS OUT!

STAFF PICKS

* finally made the decision *

The Art of Vacation ... or simply, why I haven't posted in a while.

* HIATUS *