None of Your Business

"What other people think of you is none of your business".  I like that quote.  It is true.  We can wear ourselves out worrying about other people's perception of us.  We can even forget who we are by trying to conform to what we think are other people's expectations.  No one want to be the beautiful bird that has decided he's ugly because of other peoples comments. That is just too much work!

I was visiting with a good friend of mine and since I turned another year older this month the discussion of age came up.  He said that when he turned 50 it was great since he realized that he really didn't care what other people thought anymore.  He was happy with who he was.  I can relate to that.

But here's the rub. When you paint pictures for a living you need to care about what other people think about your art.....right?  NO, I should just paint what wants to be painted.  BUT I need to paint what people want to buy.  Not ever one will 'get' your random creative moment.  TRUE, but good art is art you feel.  You see this giant circle that traps me.

Of course my two favorite subjects are Greve and Celli and animals.  Not everyone wants a gorilla in their living room.  And not everyone wants a whimsical, playful bicycle scene.  I have a gallery that is a wonderful supporter but tells me, "no mammals".  Some customers are only interested in my fine art pieces and others only look at Signore Greve.  I almost need a flow chart!

Don't see this as complaining. I really do have the best job in the world.  I have so many wonderful customers that say kind things and buy my work as gifts and to hang on their walls. But some days I stand at my easel with all this swimming in my head,  "The beluga, elephants and seal haven't sold yet.  Should I paint another animal?  I just did an entire book worth of new paintings of Greve, I need a break but......."

I try hard to be a good person.  I treat others like I want to be treated. And I try not to worry about what others are thinking when I walk away. So could I adapt the quote to "What other people think of your ART is none of your business"?

Did you just Cabbage Patch?

 

My dog hates dancing.  I mean seriously hates it.  You wouldn't think this would pose a problem since I am not in the theatre as a professional dancer.  You would be wrong.

Any jiggle related to music sends my puppy into an angry frenzy.  It's not the, "Oh, how fun! Let me dance along."  No, it is clearly, " For the sake of all humanity STOP IT!"  I didn't realize how much I dance during a work day until I got Ginzee.  A little hip wiggle as I step away from the easel sends her into an annoyed growl.  A finger snap?  Don't even think about it.  Jazz hands?  It's go time.

She passed her obedience class with flying colors.  But the funny thing is they never covered what to do when your dog hates dancing.  Am I the only one with this problem?  She seems to have some kind of built in radar for it too.  Try to moon dance across the kitchen floor. She suddenly appears like a mother of a teenage daughter who senses some line of celibacy has been crossed.

My old dog would allow me to dance with her.  She didn't really like it but when I picked up her front legs to waltz around the room she was tolerant for a respectable amount of time.  I have tried this with Ginzee and it ended with a wrestling match on the floor.  I am pretty sure I won....pretty sure.

I won't quit dancing.  No dog is going to tell me what I can and can't do while I am in my creative flow.  Now if you don't mind, 'Footloose' just came on the ipod and the dog is outside.  Look out Kevin Bacon!
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One Serious Art SALE!

Here is your chance to have an original piece of art for NO MORE than $150.  My storage is packed to the gills and I need to make some room.  You can get some great art as a gift, for your second bedroom, office, spare bathroom or kitchen.  If you would like a better image send me a note at ginaart@gci.net or call me at 336-2457.   Happy shopping!

 

 

 

Out of my wheel house

 

Isn't this card stunning?  My girlfriend Vi bought it for me.  Of course, the connection is obvious. My love of bikes is certainly no secret to anyone who knows me or my art.  But the timing of this was interesting.

 

I have been busy this week cleaning.  No, cleaning isn't the right word.  I have been gutting my little dome home.  My office was borderline hoarder territory and my closets aren't far behind.  My studio book shelf, appalling. Whenever I catch myself saying,"This house is too small!"  What I am really saying is, "I have gathered too much stuff!"  The problem is artists are natural pack rats.  Every bit of string or fabric, any scrap of paper or bead or mat board has potential to be artistic brilliance!  I don't only buy things at the store that fill up my house, I collect things I come upon or worse yet, someone gives me something that they think I can use.

 

Years ago I worked in a newspaper next to a woman named Ann.  She was a fiery redhead who loved to create cards.  She was VERY good at it. At this time in my life my creative outlet was relegated to sewing or the occasional craft project.  I thought, why not create cards?  This was before Internet or texting.  I regularly sent cards to family.  Off to the store to buy all the supplies.  Then I realized to my horror.....I was terrible at it.

 

Did you catch the detail in the handlebars?  The bike seat has the same stitching.  I can't quit marveling at the card!  But I will be strong.  After two loads of donated fabric, screen printing rack, craft totes and frames I will resist.  I will remember to leave the card making to someone else.  I am a painter,illustrator NOT a card maker!

 

Vi is taking an online card making class next month.  I know she will make some awesome things.  I will ohh and ahh over her creations.  I will then walk away and pick up a paint brush. 

 

Did you note the three D flowers?

Where have you been?

I am back from my glorious bicycle European adventure.  The Netherlands, Belgium, France all had something wonderful to absorb.  And the butter and pastries of France are worth all the hype. Yum.

As we were pedaling along my mind was busy with possible paintings and ideas inspired by the landscape and, of course, the architecture.  With Signore Greve being from Italy, he fits perfectly in the scenes of  Europe but it isn't just the scenery that inspires.  Art abounds.

The above is a painting by Hans Van Draanen.  I found a book on his work in one of the rooms we rented.  I love his loose style of people and the great texture.  This artist was from Amsterdam.  Van Gogh rules in Amsterdam it is true, but we enjoyed galleries with a bit of everything.

I am sorting through emails and working through laundry but my brain is still churning away with ideas.  Travel is just pure fun.  Having your mind take in so many new sights, taste and ideas is energizing.  So where have I been?  Creating!

A Silent Story

 

Anyone who has ever meet me knows I love to talk with my hands.  When a hard of hearing friend encouraged me to learn American Sign Language I decided to check it out.  ASL is a picture language.  Can you think of a better fit for an artist?

 

For the first time I had an opportunity present my book to a class of deaf and hard of hearing students.  Some students are hearing but have deaf parents so ASL is their first language.  (These teachers work hard!)  I wouldn't be reading my book like I normally do with a hearing class,

I would BE the book.

 

As you can see in the photo my book is transferred to the screen behind me.  So they can easily see the art from the book and easily see me as I act out the story. I became the cows chewing their cud as Signore Greve and Celli pedaled through Italy.  I stomped like an elephant and swung my trunk as they coasted through Africa.  I became Greve as he ate his lunch under a

 Chinese pagoda and Celli as he begged for a bite.

 

It's true, you have to be willing to be silly. Making faces is required and appreciated.  If you worry about how you might look you will miss the beauty of this language.  When I was swinging from vine to vine like a monkey several kids joined me.  Who cares what

you look like with that kind of payoff!

 

This class is focusing on transportation so we had a fun discussion after the book presentation about travel.  One boy loved trains, complete with a Thomas the train shirt, so we talked about train travel.  One little girl had been on a plane to California so we talked about flying.

 

I am thrilled that I was able to combine my art with my ASL.  Art is all about telling a story with a picture, just like American Sign Language.  Being able to share my story with a group of eager faces is always a joy.  But sharing it in their language was even better!

Adventure is always scary

I was waiting in line at the post office the other day.  I watched a young woman get a huge package, an expected huge package.  She was clearly excited.  Just as I thought it she said it, " How am I going to get this home?"  I had seen her ride in on her bicycle and the box was not a 'tuck under your arm' kind of package.  I offered her and her huge box (a surprise love package from home) a ride to her apartment.

This adventurer had moved to Alaska to finish up her schooling. She wanted to do something different before the cogs of adult life started grinding away.  She was still wild eyed and a bit unsure about the life Alaska brings.  But she had hiked a mountain peak and couldn't not believe she had done something so amazing and so beautiful. 

Adventure is always scary.  Big scary or small scary there is always a disclaimer that comes with something new.  Take this watercolor of a young wolf pup.  I was hired to illustrate another author's children's book.  He wanted watercolor as the medium.  Period.  I reminded him my speciality is oil.  He picked up my first illustration job, a book called "Super Sprouts", and said, "This is watercolor right?"

Curses! He had me.  I could see by the manuscript that watercolor was the right fit but taking on a job with detail watercolor was scary!  Yes, my focus in college was watercolor but I am sad to say that was MANY years ago.  Do I bail on a new, challenging adventure?  Yell FIRE and head for the exit?

I have gone through a lot of watercolor paper but I am finally in the groove.  I am really enjoying myself too.  Being at my drawing table instead of an easel feels good.  Finding those techniques learned long ago can only make me a better artist.

As Signore Greve would tell you, adventure never disappoints.  Maybe it only makes for a great,ridiculous story of disaster with friends and a bottle of wine but who doesn't love a great, ridiculous disaster story?  If your caller i.d. tells you adventure is calling be sure to answer, even it is with a hesitant hello.

Ode to Trees

 

I am an unabashed, proud tree hugger.  Seriously, there is a cottonwood tree on one of Ginzee and my walk routes that I hug regularly.  It gives a great hug back too.  Never succumbs to one of those tee-pee hugs ( I really don't want to do this but feel obligated) or the worse the broom handle hug ( it is hideous to be this close to you but I will endure it).  A tree is always happy to give and receive a hug.

I love to paint trees and have a hard time not putting one of the fabulous Italian cypress trees in the background of every Greve painting.  The acacia's of Africa...be still my heart.  And the graphic design of a birch tree....don't get me started!

You can make them any color, any shape leaf and they are still appealing.  But here is the heart break.

I won't get tinto the details because it is just plain upsetting.  And by upsetting I mean makes my stomach hurt and makes my heart beat fast.  Someone in our neighborhood decided that the spring puddle on the road leading into our spot on earth needed to go.  It was SOOOOOO inconvenient that every tree needed to be cut down so the road could be moved over several feet.  Hundreds of towering spruce, hundreds of ancient birch were mowed down in one afternoon. 

No one wanted this except of handful who apparently held the power, who have some unimaginable hidden agenda.  Petitions were signed, the newspaper was contacted but the person with the most power wins and the trees lost.  No longer will I gasp in wonder when I turn into my little part of the world to the trees thick with hoarfrost.  No more baby moose welcoming me home as they munch on their earthy buffet.  I will now gasp in horror at the scarred earth where a forest use to stand.

You really should hug a tree today. 

Whew!!

Where have I been?  At my easel.  A LOT!  Yes, my constant presence would allow spiders to set up shop without disturbance.  My puppy has been letting out loud, obvious sighs of her boredom with my vigilance at my post.  But, it is done.

Yes, the second adventure of Greve and Celli titled, "Have You Ever Had a Daydream..." is in the hands of my publisher.  True, true, there are still proofs to approve and details to iron out as we go along but the art and text are done!

Creativity doesn't always comply with deadlines.  You have it all in your head and see it flowing seamlessly onto the canvas.  As you trudge along you envisions your supporters gasping in wonder at the genius of your talent.  What?  Me and my book featured on David Letterman?  Well, I suppose I could fit that into my calendar.  It's true I got a little punchy toward the end and frustrated with paint that does not follow your wishes.

One evening I was burning the midnight oil and I realized I had a complete dialogue going with the singer on my ipod.  He sang, " You look beautiful tonight." I tossed my head flirty and replied, " Oh please, in this old paint smock."  He continued," You are full of light" I cooed," Well, it is my easel light, it brings out my eyes." When I realized I was making out with my ipod I decided to cash it in for the night.  Sheesh!

So keep you eyes peeled this fall when Greve and Celli ride again.  It is one of those terrifying/exciting moments.  Will it be successful?  Did I just buy firewood? Not time for worry now, I have a dog that desperately needs a walk.

I titled this piece "Summer Tourist".  The bird being all a glow in the wonder of this new place he is visiting.  The caribou loves his home but is thinking about the upcoming migration and the growing wolf population...you know typical every day 'home' thoughts.

I happen to be a tourist lover. Not only because they help fill my checking account but because they put off such a happy vibe.  They are free of obligation and errands.  Their full time job at the moment is to enjoy their destination.  I am happy to step into the flow of that kind of energy.

But here's the rub.  They want a memento, a little something that they will gaze upon and think of their time in the Great White North.  It goes like this: A woman smiles and picks up such an item,      " Look at this honey."  He turns and joins her in a smile.  Cue the scary film music, close up on my horrified face as the words Made in CHINA fills the screen. 

If only I were a super hero.  I would tear off my blouse revealing my fitted unitard.  In one swoop I would leap over the cheesy t-shirts and the moose poop earring and snatch the knick knack from her hand.  Before they knew what hit them I would at lightening speed replace it with something charming, heart warming and amazing.  Something made in ALASKA.

Is it so much to ask?  I know, I know you don't want to spend a fortune on something for your babysitter but good news, there are LOTS of cheap but charming local products.  A package of salmon jerky for your office workers?  A jar of fireweed jelly for your neighbor?  A silk screen t-shirt from a local artist for your niece? Moose poop earrings for....yeah okay, those are pretty gross.  But you get my point.

As the tourist stroll down our flower laden sidewalks I will stroll along as I care for my errands.  I will drop subliminal hints that will nestle unknowingly in their minds.  And if I ever visit China I know I will have plenty of local mementos to choose.

See you at the Forest Fair!

You know what you should do this weekend?  Drive to Girdwood.  I know, I know, the motor homes lining the highway.  The tourist standing half in the road as they photograph sheep.  But this weekend all that is worth it.  Why?  It's Forest Fair Weekend!

I have been busy creating 5 new originals for the Fair.  The above painting is titled, "Great Expectations."  I love how he seems to be waiting for something or someone.  Now that I think about it, my hound dog often wears this expression.  The puppy is always influencing me!  Any how, I will be one of MANY artists there showing off their new creations.

Art not enough to make you endure the drive?  How about great FREE live music?  Not a music lover uh.  No problem because the amazing and unique Fair food will woo you.  Fat balls and corn on the cob.....forget about it!  Last year I had a seafood dog.  It was amazing!!  The India soup makes my mouth drool just thinking about it!  So many one of a kind delicious choices.

The Fair is in full swing today until 8 p.m.  Then all day Saturday and until 6 p.m. on Sunday.  It is a fun weekend with just enough slice of Alaska to make it extra special!

Hot, hot baby!

Summer is here.  Last weekend it was HOT, well Alaska hot.  The sun was big and bright and Alaskans were in a great mood.  The tourist are here enjoying our world.  Festivals and fairs are popping up every weekend.

What does the paragraph above mean to artists?  Get your buns in GEAR!  This is the season where your bank account gets in the black and you get inspired with new ideas.  With so many new eyes seeing your work, there are many opportunities to listen to customer feedback.  This helps the old grey cells spark to life with new ideas.

The above painting is 12" x 12" on a wood frame.  The background is done with a paper collage.  Inside the frame is a MDF board placed on mat board.  When all that is done I place Greve and Celli with oil paint.  This allows an affordable and suitcase friendly piece of art.  I hope to sell the pieces for $125.  Hope being a key phrase.

Come by the Girdwood Forest Fair July 6-8th and see all three designs plus two new original canvas paintings.  I will be working the Girdwood Center for Visual Arts booth on Friday afternoon.  It is an art, food and music filled weekend. 

Thanks for listening and checking out my new work.  If you'll excuse me my buns clearly need to get in gear!

Sharing a Brain

This is a painting I just completed for a family.  This is the third Greve they have bought, creating one for each of their kid's rooms.  I am quite honored really.  I love the idea of their boys drifting off to sleep gazing at Signore Greve and Celli enjoying an adventure.

Getting into someone else's head to create a painting can be challenging.  Some clients are easy like the above family.  I once had a woman who asked me to paint her a tiger....PERIOD.  No color requirement, positions, size, sketches, nothing.  Just, " Gina, will you paint me a tiger?"

This is the painting I delivered.  Tigers love water which is something few people think about.  I wanted it to be a peaceful painting since it was going in her bedroom.  The client was very flowy, airy and creative so I like the water adding that softness.  Here is the incredible part.

I met her at her home to deliver the painting.  She had no idea what it might look like.  As she looked at it she gasped and her eyes got wide.  She grabbed my hand and lend me to the wall that the painting would hang.  The colors were EXACTLY like the colors in her comforter.  The painting fit the rooms style perfectly.  She teared up thanking me and some cosmic force.  I was a bit blown away myself.

Many artist won't take on the challenges of commissions.  Getting someone else's brain isnt'easy,it's true, but the payoff when it all comes together is awesome!

It's very popular in Europe and all over the Midwest.  It was one of my childhood chores that I actually enjoyed.  But here in Alaska it is unheard of.  The simple joy of hanging your clothes out to dry.

When I was working for Alaska Magazine years back I saw the sunny start to the day had turned into rain showers. "Oh no!" I groaned. "I have clothes on the line!"  My co-workers looked at me with puzzled faces. " Clothes on the line?" one repeated back to me.  "You know, I hung my clothes on the line this morning." Seeing that didn't dispel their confusion I added "to dry".  ( were these people born under rocks?) There was a long pause and then someone replied  "Wow, I didn't know anyone actually did that."

With all the efforts to be green and love the earth this is the most simple and easiest was to save money and our planet.  My sketch pads state they are created on recycled paper.  One I have says it was created using 100% wind power.  My watercolors are environmentally friendly and recently I saw new oil paints without all the 'bad' stuff.  Being an artist isn't always terribly green.  I wash my brushes in mineral spirits and have to dispose of my dirty paint filled water.  I do try to pay attention to ways to improve my impact.  No one loves the great outdoors more than me.

When I crawl into bed and the intoxicating smell of the great outdoors wafts off my sheets I know I have done the earth proud.  And I feel a bit of a kinship with all those other women out there in the world who are right now clipping their husband's shirts on the line.  It's simple, it's an ancient practice and it makes the earth smile wide.

Gina Edwards Super Model

Okay, I laughed a little when I typed the subject line.  I can honestly say I never had dreams or aspirations of becoming a super model.  But recently I had the priviledge of attending the Denver Art Museum's show YVES SAINT LAURENT- THE RETROSPECTIVE. This was the only place in the United States that it is being shown.  I was thrilled to be able to attend.  Yves was a fantastic designer and had a huge role in the women's libration movement.  The show included over 200 high fashion selections, drawings, a sample of his studio and an eye popping/jaw dropping fabric display.  There were film clips......MMmmmmm it was fantastic.

So, here I stand on a sample runway that was installed as part of the show.  Sporting my Royal Robbins skirt, Targer t-shirt and Ann Taylor jacket ( not exactly high fashion) I struted my stuff, awkwardly.  This room was dedicated to those would be designers.  There were bolts of fabric, manniquins and drawing tables complete with templates and light boxes.  You know I couldn't resist.

Here Steve puts down his editor/marketing hat and steps into my world.  Each desk had everything you would need to create your own clothing design.  To Steve's left was a huge cork board where you could put your finished creation.  It was just plain fun!

Steve's design is to the left.  No bad uh?  Notice the flirty angle of the hem line?  He even did a color check in the lower right hand corner.   Who knew he had that in him.  My design is to the right.  I wish someone would make this dress for me because I REALLY love it.  It was inspired by Saint Laurents Cocktail dress which was a tribute to Piet Mondrian.  (You should Google it, it is fantastic.)

Art and fashion really are married.  The perfect color combination, the interesting flow, the textute.  I am glad I was able to be in the right place at the right time for this wonderful show.  And if Steve ever decides to head into the creative world I know right where to direct him.

Inspiration from newsprint

I laughed so hard.  Of course the bear is fine.  I would not have been entertained if the bear was hurt.  In Boulder Colorado a bear wandered onto the campus at the University of Colorado.  Tsk, tsk.  After he was darted he did a free fall onto the mat and was transferred into a remote Rocky Mountain area with lots of oak brush and chokecherry, bear heaven.

I cut it out to send to my mom who lives in Colorado.  But I couldn't quit looking at it.  Why?  There is art in this photo. After rolling it around in my head and talking it over with my brillant manager/husband I had an idea.  I even sent out an email to a venue to see if they might have me present a show. What is the idea?  Well, I can't give it all away!

It's true, this bear had a bad day.  Although I am sure he woke up in the perfect bear spot relieved that humans weren't milling about ruining his foraging.  I am grateful for the photographer who hit the shutter at the perfect moment.  Now, if you'll excuse me I have some sketching to do!

Me and my Best Friend

This is a portrait of me and my best friend of old, Beezil, done several years ago. I loved painting that dog and really still do every time I paint Celli in Signore Greve's basket.  She was my inspiration.  Her unflinching expression made her a great subject that proved to be irresistible to me and those that saw her in art. This print and note card continue to be good sellers. 

 This simple style concept brought on commissions.

This commission was placed by a woman who also wanted her and her best friend sealed in time.  I loved the pink trench coat and striped boots.  Her dog seems unconcerned with her fabulous fashion sense, just poised and ready for his portrait.  His bandanna is accepted as his contribution to the style of the scene.

Recently I got my first cat to take the stage.  Peanut Kane, also known as Leo the Lion, posed in this kingly stance with his owner.  She wanted to be sure we got the attitude that has been part of Peanut for the last 16 years.  She teared a little when she said his age.  I understood completely.  I too have a 16 year old cat.  It blows my mind to think how many chapters in my life she has been with me. I get a lump in my throat whenever I think of her not being with me.  I was happy Brenda will always have Peanut with her, even if it is only in his royal painting.

Here is to our furry friends.  They don't realize how much they make us laugh, drive us crazy, comfort us when no one else can and cost us untold amounts of money.  It's is worth it to have such a great best friend.

Bless the Cell Phone

"Exotic Drink" is currently hanging on the wall at the Huffman Kaladi. Seeing they were without an artist for the month I offered my services and they accepted.

This morning my first phone call of the day was from a stranger. No, that's not right. It was an admirer. She was sitting having her coffee at Kaladi while gazing at the art. She decided she loved "Exotic Drink". She didn't have the wall space or the money for it but she sure liked it. So what did she do she took 2 minutes out of her morning coffee to call me and tell me so. Wow.

I love my ipad. I regularly take advantage of texting and today's technology makes being a profitable artist much easier. But most of the time it drives me crazy. Sitting in the passenger seat of the car and counting how many people pass us texting terrorizes me. Having many conversations with my friends while staring at the top of their heads while they are texting makes me want to strangle them. But today was different.

Having her cell phone handy she decided to call me and tell me, " good job". Before she hung up she said, " Keep painting". Thank you stranger, you made my day brighter.

International Language of Art

I visited Vancouver B.C. this weekend. Wonderful city, except for one glaring travesty.

The above is a sample of international art symbols we all know. The international symbol for dead? X eyes of course. We all know the steaming anger from the top of the head, the light bulb of an idea. You may not even have been aware of this language but yet we see it all the time. There is the sweat from exertion and of course the stink lines with the token fly. The whoosh of speed is one of my favorites. When I am skiing and biking I wish I could have them streaming out from my back showing the world how fast I am.

So we all agree that these drawings we see in every day life warn and inform us. Where did Vancouver go wrong? The walking man.

Standing at a street light on a lightly raining afternoon I obeyed the big red hand that says, "For cripes sake don't cross now!" Then came up the 'walking man'. I didn't walk I gasped, who was this walking man? We had never met! He had feet, his arms weren't at the correct angle. He was a bit jaunty and confident as he assured me I could cross the street. What are those crazy Canadians up to?

Now I confess their man has a bit of an appealing air about him but that is not the POINT! He is NOT the international symbol for "now proceed with caution and cross the street". He said," Yo babe, head on over this way!" I was shocked.

What's next Canada? Horizontal stink lines? Circle with a slash eyes for the dead/danger symbol? An anvil to show a new idea?

I thought we were friends.

Greve travels to Southeast Alaska!

Katie Sevigny is opening a gallery in Skagway and I am thrilled to say she asked me to join! I have been quite busy having Greve see the sights of this beautiful part of Alaska. Here he takes some time out to fish in "Signore Greve-Simple Things".

The rain forest of Southeast have fantastic trees. It's all that liquid sunshine that makes them so big and strong. "Signore Greve-Summer Rain".

The carvings that peek out of the forest tells so much about Alaska's history. "Signore Greve- The Forest's Story tellers"

Tracy Arm was one of my favorite places when I first visited Alaska in 1998. You would almost forget to breath with so much beauty surrounding you. I would love to go there again. Celli and Greve loved it too in, "Signore Greve-Tracy Arm"

If you head to Skagway this summer be sure to stop in. Maybe I will have an excuse to head down and visit!

Point Zero

Ambition/ original oil by Gina Edwards

I am sorry if you missed the Paint and Port with Nathan Perry last week. It was fun and informative. I am continually amazed at how talented the students are that come. As a full time artist in attendance you would think I would walk away with the gold star. Not really!

Nathan quoted from the"Point Zero-Creativity without Limits". The books point is to get past the self doubt and negativity that devours us and curtails our creative genius. But one question he pulled from the book as been rolling around in my head. "Does it matter if other people like my art?"

OF COURSE IT MATTERS! HELLLLlllloooooooo, trying to make a living here! I mean, I get it, create for the sake of creating instead of always looking at the business end of your art but Costco doesn't take art in trade for a bale of toilet paper!

The above painting just came out without much thinking. I had just got back from the Olympic Peninsula and was still reeling from the magnificent trees. I love trees. Anyway, I painted the tree in the water representing the incredible rain that feeds this incredible forest. Then I had the overwhelming urge to add the fish. Then the cat in the boat begged to be added. I know, the painting doesn't make any sense but you know what, I love this piece. I love the story it tells. I want to be in the boat with the cat under this amazing tree.

I know this painting will be slow to sell because of it's quirky subject. I wish I could always be okay with just spilling my head onto the canvas without worry of making a sale but that just isn't a working artist's life. Of course the alternative is getting a 'real' job and being a no pressure hobby artist. YIKES, that's crazy talk.

Animal ART

There she was peeking around my studio window. Yep, I am a moose lover. Even when they camp out in the back yard forcing me to walk the dog for potty breaks. Even when they are eating my flowers and leaving nuggets across my driveway. ( the nuggets wouldn't be so bad if my dog didn't think they were so delicious).

They really are long legged, furry art. The velvet nose, the shape of their muzzle and those huge ears. I know, I know I am getting poetic about an ungulate. But this time of year the art of nature itself is inspiring.

Ooooooooooh look at that face. I mean talk about art worthy! She is so shiny and soft with those expressive chocolate eyes. (Thank heaven I don't have a kid uh? Who could stand me?) But I am constantly looking at her thinking about how perfectly her ears curve off her head. How would I paint that glint of light that shines off her ears? Could I capture the perfect curve of her mouth?

A big challenge for artist is finding the inspiration. That spark that creates a new idea. I was struggling with an project when this moose came into view. It completely changed my attitude. I don't want to always be searching for creative energy and miss what is right in front of me.

So thank you Mrs. Moose for stopping in and saying hello. I am pretty sure the camera shows off your best side.

Burning up the Library Card

I was in the library recently researching a new project. My friend Sarah was with me and at first was quite helpful. As I continued to work my way from the children's section to the Alaska room her enthusiasm was fading. Her look threathened, " Give me a coffee and I might overlook your obsessive behavior".

I know to her it seemed like I had more than enough information. "How many pictures of a wolf do you need?" her eyes screamed as she glared at me over her glasses. She said she was sure no artist did as much research as me. I felt a bit shamed at this comment since I knew she couldn't be further from the truth.


Here is a sample of one of MANY sketches Degas did of his famous ballerinas. If you Google his sketches on this subject your screen will fill with images. He did his homework and became a brilliant artist because of it. No one would stand in front of his work and tilt their head to the right or left wondering if the leg was long enough, the profile in proportion or the ankle twist accurate. His work is spot on.

I am trying to become a better artist. I am forcing myself to take more time to sketch and yes, do research. I can't help but feel it is a waste of time. I KNOW it isn't but the gremlin in my head is squeaking, "Have you looked at your to-do list? Move on to real art!" But on this project I am going to give each and every piece the right amount of attention BEFORE I get started.

Sarah will most likely never join me at the library again. But if she does I will be smuggling in a thermos of coffee.

A Moment at the Museum

I had 45 minutes between appointments. That is like gold to me. I can be MIA for 45 minutes! No one can fill the gap because it is only 45 minutes and yet it is 45 WHOLE MINUTES! With sketchbook in hand I headed to the museum.

There was an exhibit that I wanted to see. The Museum was quiet, just the way I like it, and I exhaled a happy breath as I stepped into the exhibit. About 30 seconds later two women came in......talking. You know those guards that have the insufferable job of wandering the rooms to be sure no one is harming the art? They should be the Guido's of the loud talkers. You know, it would look like, "YOU, loud talker, on floor! Your museum entry ticket has been revoked." Chuckle....that would make me happy. Anyway, back to my story.

This forced me into the Native glass exhibit that I wasn't that interested in. Don't get me wrong, the items were amazing but living here you have LOTS of encounters with Native art. But I did some sketching that really paid off.




I am working on my next book and I needed some strange, prehistoric flowers. These two sketches were of glass bottles that were on display. They had flower written all over them! I hadn't expected to see anything like this in the Native show. That's what I get for mentally writing of the show. Note to self, all art is worth seeing.

Here are the finished flowers. I decided to take off the 'mustache' on the cone flowers. It didn't seem like facial hair until I started to paint it. Instead I added the blue stems. I think they came out great.

So I learned a few things. First, always wander through an exhibit even if you think you're not interested. There could be something fantastic you're missing. Two, always have your sketch book to record an idea. And three, loud talkers can be beneficial but I might drop the Guido idea in the suggestion box.

Cute Factor

I often search photos on Google for reference. When this photo came up I almost laughed myself into a hernia. Even now when I look at it I laugh.

I read a quote from an artist once that said don't paint 'cute'. He was a wildlife artist and was making reference to the adorableness of animals and how your work can become...well, cute. I get it and at the same time I don't.

Is Signore Greve and Celli cute? I think of them as charming but I am aware of how close to the cute range I have wandered. But is cute really so bad? Am I less talented because my art makes people laugh, smile and tell stories? I have heard so many stories from people who come up Greve and me at shows, smile to themselves and then share an awesome adventure they once enjoyed.

LOOK AT THIS KITTEN! You laughed again didn't you? You felt good! That's right, you for a moment forgot about the dishes and the report that's due and your sick friend and laughed at the cute (maybe slightly tortured) kitten.

I want people to see my work and smile. Cute SCHMUTE, I am from now on and ever forward adding kittens to all my paintings. The solution to world peace? More kittens in frog hats!

Now if you'll excuse me I need to Google frog hats to see if they come in my dog's size. heehee

Ready for the Show

My drawing table is cluttered with bolts, JB Weld goo and clamps. This year for the annual multi media show at the Girdwood Center for Visual Arts I wanted a TRUE multi media piece.

Ideas swim around pretty readily in my head, it's the execution that gets me stuck. The yearly 'Earth, Fire and Fiber' show at the museum always makes my jaw drop in awe. So many different materials put together into amazing creations! I stand there and think HOW???

The True Value Hardware store as seen a lot of me lately. Mainly because I hadn't a clue what I was doing. I would wander the aisles and walk to the check out with a confident stance. "It's an art project." I would answer brightly when the clerk would raise an eye brow. Then standing in front of my drawing table I felt ridiculous. I have never 'practiced' putting something together as much as I did this piece. And then to actually screw in the 'machine' into the painting. YIKES! Wine, I need wine. Wait, are you crazy! And blur your already non existent comprehension of this finishing process. I was wearing myself out.

Whew, it's done and I need a nap. I am pretty proud of myself. I really jumped outside my box and I learned a lot. You could practically smell the smoke of new synapses being made. Who will want to buy this quirky Brit on his home made bike like creation? I don't know but I had to make him. The reception is Saturday from 6-8 at the Girdwood Gallery. Come by and see it and other great works of art. Chair 5 provides our snacks and they are delicious.

Now,if you'll excuse me, my blanket is waiting.

The Success of Failure

This comic sums up my current state of mind. In my quest to become a good sketcher and art journal creator I have been studying books on the subject. They all have this underlying theme, it's good to fail. Wait, what?

Okay, okay we all know we learn from our mistakes but does anyone really WANT to? I prefer to learn from OTHER people's mistakes. To stand back and watch them go up in flames and think to myself, whew, don't do that. But my own crashing and burning mistakes....ouch.

One author discussed making a mistake as a learning experience. She says," These images will act as trigger for your memory or will help you mark your progress t0ward being able to capture images in the way you want." She then goes on to show 4 ways you can cover an error in your journal without ripping out the page. That's right sister, who wants a 'trigger for your memory' that screams YOU STINK!

There is this stigma of being an artist. It goes like this:
What do you do for a living?
I am an artist.
Really? ( insert raised eyebrow with a hint of eye rolling with a splash of doubt)
As an artist you spend a lot of time convincing strangers that saying 'artist' doesn't mean you do performance art on the corner wearing a dog mask swaying in your underwear. Who needs permanent pages in a book proving their raised eyebrow?

So I am committed to (sigh) embracing my disastrous pencil strokes, my mislead pen scratches and disproportionate musings. I am ready for the success of failure.

Who is this artist?

Have you seen this great piece of performance art? Who is this wonderful person? Every winter after every fresh snow fall these beautiful lines appear on the banks of Minnesota across from the lagoon. They are perfect without footprints. Depending on the time of day, the light gives the lines different shadows and colors. Earlier this year I drove by after a fresh snow and they weren't there. I panicked a bit thinking maybe this mysterious snow artist had moved or lost interest. Maybe, I thought in horror, they think no one notices or cares! I notice, care and LOVE IT!

These are what I like to call 'art attacks'. There you are moving through your day and BAM you see something creative and wonderful. You smile with your mouth agape. You forget about your to-do list and responsibilities and just take it in. You try to think what you could do to make someone else smile and look on in wonder.

Yep, I considered this an 'art attack' as well. Moose are great performance artist. They create art and wonder by just being. Look at this scene! The mountain, the color, the silhouette tree. Wow, if only my paintings could be so good.

I hope your week is filled with 'art attacks'. They remind us that everyday gives us something worth enjoying and remembering. The coldest, bleakest, the world is against me day can change in an instant when we see lines carved into a hillside or a moose posing on a cold winter day. Keep your eyes open, you don't want to miss it!

Warm up Your Pens and your Pencils

This is a multi media piece I did several years ago. My goal was to enter it in the Earth, Fire and Fiber show at the Museum. I chickened out. After getting it all done I deemed it unworthy of the show and never gave the judges a chance to decide.

Stepping out into new territory is scary especially when it is such a expressions of yourself. But by having the goal of entering the show I did something I had never done before. I really am quite proud of the piece which has long since been sold. I do wish I had entered it.

Now is your chance to step into new territory. The Girdwood Center for Visual Arts is having their annual show for the public. This year's theme is " This and That". The rules are that your art must have at least two different mediums. So if you like to dabble in watercolor, add a little ink. If you are into photography do a collage with some added items. This show is perfect for those of you that would like to tap further into your creative self but just don't know where to start.

The deadline for art is Feb. 2 with the opening reception being Saturday the 4th. ( there is a shuttle so you don't have to drive to Girdwood to drop off your work) It is $5.00 per piece to enter and your work will be on display for the month. Who knows, you might even sell your masterpiece. Drop me a note or give a call if you want more details.

I hope I can get a few new people to participate. I remember the first time I presented myself as a wanna be artist. It is terrifingly exciting. Come on, add a little energy and art to your life!

Doodle me dingy

My second attempt with the lesson from the Doodles Unleashed free online class

It's that time of year! The time when Strathmore Papers offers their free online workshops. (www.strathmoreartist.com/online) I checked them out and signed up for a few. Sadly, they didn't start until spring and I was kind of looking for something new and interesting now.

I decided to check out the 'Doodles Unleashed' class. I am actually not a doodler and being the linear, A- personality type this free and flow-y work isn't my style. Which is exactly why I skipped it and why I then decided to check it out.

Recently Bravo channel had their "Works of Art" reality show where artist get assignments and a small amount of time to come up with something brilliant. I LOVE the show. LOVE IT! I think about it for days afterwards trying to visualize what I would have made. One thing I noted is how adept many of the artist seemed to be with a variety of mediums. I could improve in that area.

The above work is my second attempt. The first was a disaster. So bad I will not even show it to you. Normally I would have abandoned the whole project but I soldiered on wanting to force myself into something new. I look at this piece and don't see myself creating it but I did. And I learned some new techniques along the way.

Trying new art techniques is often frustrating. You get use to obtaining the results you want and when they fail, often miserably, you are ready to go back to what is comfortable. Pushing through helps you grow. Here is to a great growing season.