Altered ARt and Assemblage

Fish and Flower

2011-12-27T11:44:00.003-05:00

Felt a little sad when this piece sold a few weeks ago and I miss it hanging in my studio. Sumi ink on thick thai paper collage with pieces of lace, fabric and bamboo layered with rice paste. There is something quiet and contemplative about it. Anyway, winter is a good time to work on brush painting so I am setting up a spot in the new studio to get back to it.

"Southern Cross"

2011-11-23T12:16:00.005-05:00

Layers of Decorative blue paper over red with window of ship masts. Have also been studying glazes with oil paints on board. Fascinating process.

Moon stuck!

2011-09-09T19:01:00.003-04:00

Recently received a commission to do a larger version of this piece and struggling for inspiration. I'm thinking higher contrast and expanded palette, and leaving out the sewing pattern pieces.... Perhaps a different goddess. Client likes the moon, stars and lightening. Also it seems a bit crowded with objects to me and should be longer horizontally. Stuck and procrastinating and unsure of what to use as the moon.

"Lady Sings the Blues" wins honorable mention in MCGOPA Fall Juried Show

2010-11-04T20:08:00.002-04:00

2010 Juried Fall Show

November 13, 2010 - December 11, 2010

Juror: Edna Davis, Owner of Tyme Gallery

ARTISTS’ RECEPTION

When: Saturday, November 13 , 2010

Where: MCGOPA at SPP Galleries

Inquirer Building on Rt. 23 between

Rts. 320 (Swedeland Road) and 202 in

Conshohocken, Pennsylvania

Time: 5 - 7 PM

This assemblage piece has received an honorable mention in the fall show and will be awarded at the reception on Saturday November 13th 5-7pm. "Life with Coffee Spoon" was also selected for this show.

Splendid Silent Sun

2010-10-09T23:46:00.002-04:00

The outside of an altered book I am working on using decorative paper, a poem my Whitman and plates from a book on the Sistine Chapel. All are coated in encaustic wax, which is a pretty new process for me.

Chair for WCA "A Seat at the Table" Fringe Festival

2010-08-05T20:53:00.008-04:00

8/30 More sewing and a few other changes to "White Stains" today.

Today I added the skirt and decided on an appropriate name, "White Stains." The name is from a collection of erotica by Anais Ninn but in this case appropriate for a chair of white at a dinner table. What an extra burden is placed on women to keep their garments "white" and stain free, by being careful or a good laundress. The right cowgirl boot is turned outward, suggesting toe tapping or an eagerness
to dance.

This piece is not quite finished but getting close. The event is next Friday and my goal is to finish by the weekend. It is comprised of a $5.00 chair from Goodwill painted white, cowgirl boots, a white jacket, the sleeve from a bridal gown found in a dumpster, a diaper, pantaloons from a doll and various laces as well as a tampon string. The trappings of females, what adorns us, or protects us, or gets us moving and up from the seated position. Was going to call it "Wing and Roots and Cowgirl Boots" but not sure about including the wings and that title is a bit too cutesy. Will possibly but tool around the seat as well, you know for dancing.

Assemblage piece looking for just the right verse

2010-02-01T20:40:00.008-05:00

"Slant of Light" was stalled in the studio until I started experimenting with encaustic medium which seemed to bring it together in a more cohesive way. Still undecided if I should use the Emily Dickinson quote on the piece or not. The orange wire on the left acts as the disconnected observer leaning into the seasons without experiencing them. Satisfied with the way the piece looks wet.

And the next version. Decided to add a larger, more interesting leaf and kept the Emily Dickinson poem. Also coated the cathedral with glass coat which makes the image appear wet. Not done yet, as I still have to attach the actual poem, oh and that stem to the lotus pod. So there will be a version 4 coming and maybe more still if I opt for having this puppy framed. Might call it "Slant of light" or "Winter Afternoons."

This is the more recent version, but have not settled on the winter quote...strongly leaning toward Emily Dickinson. Thrilled to receive two new sample adhesives that I used on this one as well, so it is down to three pieces to adhere and a title. "Yes Paste" is my favorite so far. There are a few minor details: I am thinking of adding, four thin sticks and a piece of faded wire. Also not sure how to handle the quote, either as a transfer or layers of torn wasi paper coated with rice paste.

Finishing is often the hardest part, for me anyway with just about anything.

This base relief piece is simpler than more recent works. The four seasons are represented by the lotus blossom, leafless tree, leaf, and shell... yet they are seasons remembered in winter and indoors primarily. Comfortably stark, I think. The right scrap of poetry is out there waiting to be found and attached.... only I have not come across it yet. Suggestions by readers are always welcome. No name for this one yet either.

It is about 80 percent attached, always challenging for many reasons. The dried lotus blossom at the top right corner has presented some problems as to the proper adhesive. A thicker batch of rice flour paste might do the trick. Then there's the shell and leaf, *sigh.*

One friend suggested this:

There's a certain Slant of light, Winter Afternoons-- That oppresses, like the Heft Of Cathedral Tunes--

Emily Dickinson

Another Good one

Thus in the winter stands the lonely tree, Nor knows what birds have vanished one by one, Yet knows its boughs more silent than before

- Edna St Vincent Millay

Undone

2010-01-14T22:57:00.009-05:00

I. Undone is done at last. It seemed to need space between the separate boxes and looks better as a base relief mounted on a wall. The addition of the chess tournament in the city and the chess pieces carries the black/white repetition from the left box to the right and thematically recalls the game board motif. The "angels" on the right are flat, pointing or looking off in other directions as the photograph depicts the men playing chess. The dimensional woman on the left is compartmentalized, secular, and rustic in comparison. Also she does not have the proper game pieces to play.

II. Inside this former silver chest with a mixture of doll parts, a Korean mask, dominoes, metal leaves, checker board, and images of saints

III. This one is not quite finished, but pretty close. Still looking for a few chess pieces that are the right size

and shape. The "sinner and the saints" was another possible title, but undone is more fitting.

New Work

2010-01-06T14:43:00.005-05:00

Comprised of a various broken glass, ceramics, torn netting, a yellow feather, a pod, a belt buckle and loosely arranged on wooden grid. The circular object in the back ground is made from men's ties. The fortune at upper right hand square says, "Your dearest dream is coming true."

Life with coffee spoon

2009-04-29T21:51:00.010-04:00

The inspiration for this came from an old copy of Hints from Heloise. She writes about all the letters she has received from who women not using their really good dishes, linens, etc for the family and only saving them for guests, "who is more important and loved than your family."

From there I started pulling together various items that merge when two people unite. Some that are precious, others that represent dreams, like the car trip to Switzerland, a piece of the good sterling, and the music to a special song. Also included is a sumi ink painting of poppies I did as a study for another painting. Many of these pieces, incomplete, broken, ripped or tattered, but come together to reveal two lives intertwined.

My cousin has a great deal of china and crystal stem wear inherited from various relatives or bought for a song at an estate sale. She uses it every day, drinks diet coke out of very elegant wine goblets, in a very non-pretentious way. It is one of the many things I find endearing about her, why not use it for yourself and your family for heavens sake. She also recently obtained a goat named Sally for the farm.

So further down are a few shots of "Life with Coffee Spoon" actually hanging up over the mantle in a home. Have also done a few of these as commissions for couples about to get married and a few on anniversaries. Enjoyable, I mostly like to hear their stories....

From the Six Women Six Perspectives Opening

2008-10-15T09:46:00.002-04:00

Six Women Six Perspectives

2008-09-23T16:11:00.005-04:00

Six Women: Six Perspectives Opens at Holy Family University
Running Dates: 10/6/08-10/29/08 Opening:
Monday October 13, 2008 at 6 p.m.- Location:
Holy Family University Gallery
Lower Level John M. Perzel Education Technology Center
9801 Frankford Avenue Philadelphia, PA 215-637-7700
Six Women: Six Perspectives features work by six women:
Jane Craven, Kathy Dobash, Bonnie MacAllister, Meredith McDonald,
Sonia Sherrod, and Michelle Wilson.

Jane Craven is a graduate of the sculpture MFA program at the University of the Arts.
She holds a BFA and teacher certification from Moore College of Art. Her two and three-dimensional
work is compelling. She most recently installed “Sculptoure”: a site-specific installation in Long
Branch, New Jersey. Craven will show mixed media, clay, and plaster work at Holy Family.

Kathy Dobash is a Luzerne County artist and an art educator. She has been an artist her whole life.
Kathy is known as the artist-in-residence in the historic Markle Building. Renovating a century
old ceiling in this building has inspired Kathy to create a new series of work. Dobash brings
mixed media and oil pastel work to this exhibition.

Bonnie MacAllister is an artist, author, and educator. She has most recently exhibited
at the Utopian Library in Viareggio, Italy and in la Galería del MEC, Montevideo, Uruguay
(along with Michelle Wilson). She is currently exhibiting with the Women’s Caucus for Art
DC Chapter in Tacoma Park, MD. Her work for this exhibition explores Catholicism and
identity through a feminist lens.

Meredith McDonald holds a Master in Teaching Visual Arts from the University of the Arts
and has studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Arts. She is a 2008
recipient of the Leeway Foundation Art and Change Grant which funds women in the
arts in Philadelphia. An accomplished artist, Meredith brings intriguing new oil
work to Holy Family University.

Sonia Sherrod describes her craft, “As an assemblage artist, I try to re-create
beauty or relativity out of the discarded, broken, and abandoned found objects
juxtaposed with my own original 2-d art, old photographs, and words.
These constructions explore the relativeness of color, shadows, and shape as
well as compartmentalizing thematic associations of still-life, portrait,
and landscape....empty, full, crowded and sparse, revealing and withholding
within a narrative context.” She has exhibited widely including Festival of the Masters
in Orlando, Florida and the Manchester National Juried Fine
Art Exhibition in Richmond VA. Sherrod will exhibit new assemblages in
“Six Women: Six Perspectives..

Michelle Wilson is the creator of Rocinante Press and the Migratory Books Project.
Michelle describes her art forms, “In my work, I seek to reveal the stories of unseen
connections and unconsidered issues that are connected to the experience
of the human condition. Through the use of intersecting narratives that become
reflective metaphors for each other, I examine political, historical and ecological links.”
Her work is widely collected and exhibited in the United States and abroad.
In this exhibition, Wilson will show lithograph inclusion in handmade cotton/abaca paper.

Money it's a gas................

2008-09-05T09:41:00.005-04:00

Here is a new one I'm finishing off this week....not a small feat in my studio that has no ac in 90 degree weather. Sweat, adhesives and many kinds, saw dust, recycled paper, tacky bling, a silver spoon, purse strings and dirty money........oh and of course gas. Sure is taking a hunk of my stash to fill up the subuey. This image is a little blurry but it is my grandfather standing beside a gas pump....it says pure pep on the pump. Not sure when it was taken. But for my sentiments about money let's turn to FDR's 1st inaugural speech:

The money changers have fled from their high seats in the temple of our civilization. We may now restore that temple to the ancient truths. The measure of the restoration lies in the extent to which we apply social values more noble than mere monetary profit.

Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort. The joy and moral stimulation of work no longer must be forgotten in the mad chase of evanescent profits. These dark days will be worth all they cost us if they teach us that our true destiny is not to be ministered unto but to minister to ourselves and to our fellow men.

Recognition of the falsity of material wealth as the standard of success goes hand in hand with the abandonment of the false belief that public office and high political position are to be valued only by the standards of pride of place and personal profit; and there must be an end to a conduct in banking and in business which too often has given to a sacred trust the likeness of callous and selfish wrongdoing. Small wonder that confidence languishes, for it thrives only on honesty, on honor, on the sacredness of obligations, on faithful protection, on unselfish performance; without them it cannot live.

Restoration calls, however, not for changes in ethics alone. This Nation asks for action, and action now.

Mermaid singing

2008-08-03T23:37:00.004-04:00

This one is almost done, I have not put a wire one the back for hanging so it is a little propped i n this photo. Might call it the "Lady of the Lake," or something like that instead. A few more things to complete and she will be done as well. Her hair needs some work also.

Commissions etc

2008-07-30T15:06:00.003-04:00

Usually ignoring my blog means I'm getting a lot done in studio. Two commissions are all but finished and have a prolific week since coming back from vacation. So here they are...."Flappers and Slides with the Kitchen sink" and "Creatures of the Great Wide Open." All things are adhered on Flappers and the 3d objects are adhereing as we speak on Creatures.

Flappers, Jesters, and Socket covers on Wainscotting

2008-06-24T14:07:00.003-04:00

This a commission I am finishing. Originally I was using old images from Vanity Fair, but found it a bit to cluttered. The local lumber company gladly donated a generous quantity of scrap wainscotting to my cause. The material works so well for the base relief pieces, it is so sturdy....but must be roughed with a file to allow the adhesive to stick properly. The figures, were actually create by the client who commissioned the piece as well as the triangle inserts. They are scraps from wooden bowls they make in their woodshop.

A fellow art amigo often accuses me of throwing everything in but the kitchen sink.... so for this one I decided that the kitchen sink worked! Now the hard part of attaching the hardwire to hang, which means it is finished. Will post the finish product within the next few days.

Scenes from opening receptions in Wilmington, DE

2008-05-06T10:22:00.011-04:00

This is a collborative piece made by members of the Philadelphia Chapter of the WCA and members of Rubia. The piece as well as works from the WCA are hanging at the Louis Redding Gallery 800 North French Street, Willmington DE.

Two Shows in Wilmington

2008-05-01T15:28:00.005-04:00

I am in a solo show at 7 arts Gallery in Wilmington
and a group show with the WCA at the Louis L. Redding City County Building.
You can download the May brochure of Wilmington's Artloop here
www.ci.wilmington.de.us/artloop

Congrats to Mrs Floyd E Cahoon

2008-04-29T09:12:00.004-04:00

Mrs. Floyd E Cahoon was awarded Honorable Mention in
the 1212 Gallery Manchester National Juried Fine Art Exhibition 2008!
The juror was Elizabeth Schlatter,
Deputy Director and Curator,
University of Richmond Museums.

Manchester National Juried Fine Art Exhibition

2008-04-04T15:12:00.002-04:00

Manchester National Juried Fine Art Exhibition 2008 at 12 12 Gallery

Mnjfae08 12 12 Gallery's highly successful competition, Manchester National Juried Fine Art Exhibition, is the gallery's first all media show for 2008. Juror and Curator N. Elizabeth Schlatter, Deputy Director and Curator, University of Richmond Museums, selected 53 works from 46 artists from a total of 593 images from 132 artists. Awards presentation and artists' reception on Sunday, April 6th, from 2 - 5 pm. The exhibition runs through Sunday, May 4th.

Richmond artists Judith Anderson, Ann Bradshaw, Lorraine Brevig, Catherine Farmer, Joelle Francht, Edwin Hollaway, and Zach Walker are among the finalists competing for up to $1000 in cash prizes.

Other finalists are Jorge Albertella, Marcia Babler, Beki Borman, Roger Cannon, James Cooper, Rebecca Degenhardt, Sally Dill, Anca Dobrian, William Durrill, Nancy Fairchild, Claire Feng, Ernie Fournet, Morgan Frew, Margaret Gluhman, Wayne Guenther, Bro Halff, Ann Harper, Annie Hogan, Phyllis Hollenbeck, Jordan Kasey, Geraldine Kiefer, Leslie Krane, Mark Lembo, Jennifer Martin, Michael Mastro, Brittain McJunkin, Monika Merva, Marcia Middleton, Karen Phipps, Steve Shanks, Sonia Sherrod, Denis Sivack, Stuart South, Leo Theinert, Cole Thompson, Jessica van Brakle, Chloe Watson, and Pat Wilson.

Two pieces in National Juried Exhibitions

2008-03-28T22:21:00.010-04:00

"Mrs. Floyd E Cahoon" has traveled back down south again to Richmond, Va to make an appearence at "12 12 Gallery's Manchester National Juried Fine Art Exhibition 2008"

The show runs March 28 through May 4, 2008
Reception Sunday, April 6th

Gallery hours are Thursday and Friday, 12-4PM, Saturday, 11AM-6PM, Sunday 12-5PM and by appointment.

12 12 Gallery
12 East 12th Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
(804) 233-9957

"White House" travels west to Colorado to make it's national debut at the Englewood National Juried Art Show in Englewood, Colorado. Also made the front of the postcard! First time for any of my work. Here is the press release:

"Exhibiting for a sixth year, this event brings the work of visual artists from around the country to Englewood. View a selection of two and three dimensional visual entries. The show is open Thursdays through Saturdays through April 26 and is free of charge. Presented by Englewood Arts with support from the City of Englewood, Englewood Cultural Arts Commission, and Englewood Parks and Recreation."

Date: 4/3/2008 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Location: Hampden Hall at Englewood Civic Center
1000 Englewood Parkway, 2nd Floor
Englewood, Colorado

Bells for John Whitesides Daughter

2008-03-04T15:25:00.000-05:00

Those dancing days are gone by carla bruni

2008-02-21T23:42:00.001-05:00

Come, let me sing into your ear;
Those dancing days are gone,
All that silk and satin gear;
Crouch upon a stone,
Wrapping that foul body up
In as foul a rag:
I carry the sun in a golden cup.
The moon in a silver bag.

Curse as you may I sing it through;
What matter if the knave
That the most could pleasure you,
The children that he gave,
Are somewhere sleeping like a top
Under a marble flag?
I carry the sun in a golden cup.
The moon in a silver bag.

I thought it out this very day.
Noon upon the clock,
A man may put pretence away
Who leans upon a stick,
May sing, and sing until he drop,
Whether to maid or hag:
I carry the sun in a golden cup,
The moon in a silver bag.

Please vote for Me!

2008-01-25T19:53:00.000-05:00

One of my assemblage sculptures, The Girl from Ipanema, was chosen as a finalist in the Women's History Month: Relics and Rembrances March '2008 online exhibit. Apparently the pieces for the physical exhibit will be chosen by public vote from the images that are online. So basically anyone can vote for their choice from the images presented at this site. There are some really amazing pieces and I felt really humbled and honor to be included.

Here is the link for the site:http://picasaweb.google.com/reflectarts1/FinalistsWomenSHistoryMonth2008RelicsRemembrances

Basically to vote you simply send an e-mail with the name of the artist, like maybe sonia sherrod, in the subject line to
vote@reflect-arts.com

January 31 is the last day to vote. The Exhibition will take place March 8-30 2008 at the Fountainhead Gallery 32 West 28th New York, NY.

Row

2008-01-20T10:53:00.000-05:00

My grandfather use to sing Row, row, row your boat to get us to sleep when we were children. The words were a bit mixed up in my head and I though it went "Life is butterbeans," rather than "Life is but a dream." Have been working on this for a while now and am about 95% finished. Sort sums up my sentiments about my grandfather in a tangential kind of way. He came from a farming family in Hyde county NC, but had to sell when is father died unexpectedly...he managed hotels for many years, but eventually settled in Tarboro and owned a John Deere dealership. There were hours of fun pretending to drive the tractors and combines as a child. Not a big talker, tall, good dresser had a very calm demeanor that you seldom see in men anymore. About a year before he died we went to Greenville to pick up eye glasses for my grandmother and myself. We waited for my grandmother in the car and he talked about growing up on a farm and his grandfather Harris... was a clear fall day under some long leaf pines and I remember looking at the piles of pinestraw on the ground the coppery color and the blue sky...that is the color of eastern NC to me.

While working on this piece two songs played along in my head. One was John Prine's "Grandpa was a Carpenter" ...always reminded me of Papa even though he was not a carpenter.... esp the part about wearing a suit to dinner and driving to church on Sunday. The other song was by The Gourds, "Coppermine" from Stadium Blitzer. The lyrics are as follows:
Coppermine, oh coppermine

My great-great grandfolk on my father's side

used to work,in a coppermine - oh yeah

A penny here, a penny there

won't you drop one in my waterwell

The women lived in Maine* my friend

The men they lived underground

Copperwire oh copperwire

clever clever copperwire

Wrapped in black rubber

never knew it was a miner's manner

I loved so well

A penny here, a penny there

won't you drop one in my waterwell

The women lived in Maine my friend

The men they lived underground

Last winter I went to an exhibit of book arts and there was a piece that had an ipod that you listened, was mostly the artist talking. Would love to create something with both these songs playing interchangeably and some stream of concious thought process intermixed.

Getting through the winter painting plum blossoms

2008-01-04T20:44:00.001-05:00

This is a small Japanese brush painting of plum blossoms on thai paper, with lace on the side. I prefer lace in paintings as it typically scratches when worn. It is the chinese flower of flowers for winter so delicate in contrast to starkness of the season. The plum blossom symbolizes purity, strength, courage and perseverance. So I will go to my studio and paint the blossoms and the raggedy jaggedy stems and bark.

From Studio tour set up

2007-11-20T17:38:00.001-05:00

Here are some photos of my studio as seen during our open studio show this past weekend. Was really a blast and good to get things spiffied up for company. Also finishing a few in limbo pieces was good as well.

Mrs. Floyd E. Cahoon goes to Knoxville, TN

2007-10-17T16:40:00.000-04:00

"Mrs. Floyd E. Cahoon" was selected for the exhibition titled, "Reconfigured," held at The Basement Gallery in Knoxville, Tennessee. The show will run from November 2nd until November 24th with an opening reception on the 2nd from 6pm until 10pm in conjunction with Knoxville's Friday night Arts Walk.

Here is more information about The Basement Gallery from their website:

The Basement Gallery is a small artist run gallery exhibiting contemporary fine art in Knoxville, Tennessee. The gallery was established in June of 2006 and began specializing in emerging, mid career and established artists. The Basement Gallery exhibits national & international artists each month and local/regional artists are on view most months.

We hold new exhibits monthly and have free admission, but are willing to except any and all donations to help keep the arts alive in our neighborhood and help us to bring the best exhibits to Knoxville, TN.

The current Director/Curator is T. Michael Martin who received his MFA in Painting from the Virginia Commonwealth University in 2005 and his BA in Studio Art from the University of Tennessee in 2002.

Some works in Progress

2007-10-16T14:01:00.000-04:00

Here are a few things that I have been working on of late. The one on the lower right is finished. Trying to put the studio back together after Art Festival, and finish more work. Overall had a good show, not so easy to do outdoor shows with this kind of work...they tend to get a bit dirty. Will make more journals for next time and small lower price point items for sure.

Wallingford Community Arts Center Fine Arts and Crafts Festival

2007-09-29T13:20:00.000-04:00

October 6 & 7 - FINE ARTS and CRAFTS FESTIVAL/10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

First organized over five years ago by artists working at the Community Arts Center, the Fine Arts and Crafts Festival features original artwork by some of the areas finest artists and crafts people. This event is in keeping with the Arts Center’s mission and promotes the work of area artists while providing the opportunity for visitors to view some of the finest contemporary artists in the area.

The event also includes live music, artist demonstrations, children’s activities and fine food. The large park is the perfect setting for this growing festival providing ample free parking and lots of space for people to enjoy this unique arts event.

Visitors to this event come from the tri-county area. Rose Tree Park is conveniently located and easily accessible from the area’s major highways.

There is no other event in the area like this Festival.

Featuring over 50 artists, live music, fine food, artist demonstrations, children’s activities and raffle.

Rose Tree Park, Media

at route 252 and Rose Tree Road

GREAT art, music, food and family fun!

For Volunteer Opportunities Click Here: "Fine Arts and Crafts Festival Volunteer Form"

Stars, Songs, Faces Assemblage

2007-09-20T13:26:00.001-04:00

As assemblage piece inspired by Carl Sandburg's poem

From the Plastic Club Reception

2007-09-09T22:24:00.001-04:00

Whiter than Rice in exhibition

2007-09-08T20:19:00.000-04:00

The Plastic Clubs exhibition includes this piece and many others without color.

"BLACK IS THE COLOR "

Opening Reception
Sunday, Sept. 9th
2 to 5 PM
Open Juried Show

SEPT. 2 - SEPT. 26

"The Plastic Club"

Art Club & Gallery
247 South Camac Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19107
215-545-9324

Since 1897, The Plastic Club has been devoted to the promotion and preservation of the visual (plastic) arts in Philadelphia. The busy gallery schedule offers several annual exhibitions for members and non-members, as well as invited artists in solo and group exhibitions. Members include well-known Philadelphia artists.

"The Art of Sacrifice"

2007-08-23T16:40:00.001-04:00

"By Hand" made it into a nationally juried show in Minneapolis, MN. The show, "The Art of Sacrifice" will run at Altered Esthetics gallery from September 6th through the 27th. Opening reception September 7th 7-9pm. I will not be there, but please stop by and visit if you happen to be in town.

Happy Birthday!

2007-08-09T11:41:00.000-04:00

Here's to a certain new teenager...........hope you receive trampoline, doorknob,...texting!

Studio Photos...its coming along

2007-07-11T20:37:00.001-04:00

Some recent photos from my studio. Coming along but more work to be done. It is also frick'n hot as the dickens with no ac...although gets me there early anyway. Listen to whyy 90.9 whilte working and trying out some experimental pieces.

Magnolia and Mule Vase

2007-07-10T11:27:00.001-04:00

An experimental process that I have been working on of late. The mule image is one from a print my mother made of a painting she did. Currently working on more pieces of this nature.

From the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival Exhibit

2007-07-03T16:42:00.001-04:00

These two just came back from Wilmington Delawares ARt on the Town in the Redding Gallery of the City/County building. They were part of a jazz inspired theme for the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival back in June. Have had little time to art blog.

Not Sure

2007-05-25T14:19:00.001-04:00

Can not come up for a title for this one. Other than lady sits in an armchair.

By Hand

2007-04-20T09:05:00.000-04:00

Assemblage of old wood, newspaper photo, decorative paper etc. The caption "back in the 50's tobacco workers did everything by hand, today almost." What I found interesting was these particular workers were all women, with a man standing in the background...probably supervising. So I focused on the "by hand" part and included a hand as well as other things women make "by hand." The hand has brown stains much like the tobacco gum that sticks to one's hands when they pick it. But there is metal adornment on the hand, a ring perhaps, to show it is a woman's hand.

Mrs. Floyd E Cahoon

2007-04-10T17:59:00.000-04:00

This assemblage is based on one of my grandmother's friends. Her calling card is at the right hand corner with a description of my grandmother's bridal shower under the butterfly. Did not know Mrs. Cahoon personally, but really liked the sound of her name. Photograph in the right corner is one from my Grandmother's Aunt Martha. She was a school teacher in Columbia, NC. The little girl in the center is my favorite, long lanky, and mean as she can be.

Iris in a Copper Pitcher

2007-04-01T10:49:00.000-04:00

Hurray this painting and the orange and blue made it into the 41st Annual Robert Ransley show in Mount Holly NJ! Below is press release.

The 41st Annual Robert Ransley Juried Art Show at the Mount Holly Library 307 High Street Mount Holly, N.J. From April 2nd until May 5th Reception April 14th Gallery open Monday -Friday from 10 A.M.-5 P.M. Saturday from 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Sponsored by the Burlington County Art Guild For information contact 856-933-5140 or the library at 609-267-7111.

Still life in blue and orange

2007-03-28T15:46:00.000-04:00

From a PAFA Class I took a couple of years ago. Really need to take a better photo, but this is the only one that came out so far.

Studio 6

2007-03-25T21:08:00.000-04:00

My studio so far. At least one side, the other is mostly boxes and a few shelves. Started on a new piece this week and cooked up plans for another. Gets really nice afternoon light and over looks a creek. I need some more shelves and a cabinet of some sort. Have been checking freecycle, but nothing that will work yet. Will post more picks as progress continues.

From MKR and my former backyard

2007-03-19T22:20:00.000-04:00

Here is an assemblage based primarily on my fondest affection for magnolia's as expressed through the writings of Marjorie Kenan Rawlings. She was most notably the author of The Yearling. This passage came from Cross Creek a collection of stories she wrote while living in North Florida near Micanopy. Her home, as well as part of her orange orchard is preserved as a state park. Loved going there when we lived in Florida.

Gusta's Magnolia

2007-03-06T11:56:00.000-05:00

This is my painting, "Gusta's Magnolia," as it hangs at the Philadelphia Sketchclub exhibit, "Art of the Flower." Attended the reception on Sunday, diverse and interesting show overall. These are photos that I took with the camera in my phone, so pretty poor quality. Will stop back by in the next two weeks or so and take some with a real camera.

Mainline First Fridays at Viking Culinary Arts Center

2007-03-02T16:23:00.000-05:00

Viking Culinary Arts Center 1 Town Place #100, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 610.526.9020 www.vikinghomechef.com Sonia Sherrod, 'Fruitstand' assemblage sculpture	March 2nd, 5:00 to 9:00pm "My work is art from discarded objects, decorative papers accompanied with words, and then altered to become one of a kind 2d and 3d pieces."

Art of the Flower 2007

2007-02-27T22:41:00.000-05:00

THE PHILADELPHIA SKETCH CLUB

PRESS RELEASE

Art of the Flower 2007 at the Philadelphia Sketch Club

The Philadelphia Sketch Club is pleased to announce its Second Annual Art of the Flower Exhibition. This juried exhibit will run from March 2 nd through the 24 th of 2007 as a compliment to the nationally famous Philadelphia Flower Show. This show will feature 2 and 3 dimensional works in various media on the theme of flowers. An Artists' Reception will be held on Sunday, March 4 th , from 2 to 5 PM with awards being presented at 4 PM. Admission is free. The Philadelphia Sketch Club is the oldest artists club in the United States and is located at 235 South Camac Street in Philadelphia . Gallery hours are M/W/F/Sa/Su from 1 to 5 PM.

A new collage painting I did of a Magnolia, "Gusta's Magnolia," made it into this show. Unfortunately, it as not been photographed. Will take some photos at the reception and post.

Moving out of the Diningroom

2007-02-11T22:37:00.000-05:00

Backing up all the art and art supplies this week I move out of the diningroom and into my very own studio! So this is where I have been at it for the last couple of years, very tight and public space. New space is private, larger, more light, no distractions like laundry, phone, neighbors or needy dogs. Also other artists around to get feed back from.

Helen Kate Furness Fund Raiser

2007-02-08T21:01:00.000-05:00

This mixed media collage painting is up for auction at the Helen Kate Furness Library cocktail party!

You're Invited!
Friday evening, February 9th
7:30 pm until 11:00 pm
at The Old Mill in Rose Valley

Helen Kate Furness Free Library's Fifth Annual Cocktail Party

Featuring live music by The Don Jones Band, delicious hors d'oeuvres, a full open bar and our famous silent auction.

As featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer, this year's auction features a copy of "To Kill a Mockingbird" signed by Harper Lee!

Don't miss it!

Presented by:
Comcast, Plush Mills: A Sage Senior Living Community, Radio Communications Service, Inc.
Sovereign Bank, and Wilson Heating Oil

Tickets are just $35.00 each.

The party is nearly sold out. For more information, please call the Library at (610) 566-9331

"Tarawa" in Richmond

2007-02-08T15:14:00.000-05:00

12 12 Gallery
12 East 12th Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
(804) 233-9957
Gallery Hours
Thursday and Friday 12 - 4 PM
Saturday 11 - 6 PM
Sunday 12 - 5 PM

This piece, "Tarawa" was been selected for the 1212 Gallery Manchester National Juried Fine Art Exhibit 2007. This year's Juror was Dr. Jefferson C. Harrison who selected 50 pieces from over 908 images sent by 200 artists from 36 States, DC, and Canada. The exhibition represents a broad range of media from across the US and Canada.
. The show opens February 23rd with a private awards ceremony and reception Sunday, February 25th. It runs until March 18th.
Not the best image I have of this piece, the better one is in slide form.

Happy Birthday to Moi!

2007-01-17T11:39:00.000-05:00

Always liked sharing a birthday with these guys, their such a hoot at the party! The hottie at the top is Anton Chekhov, Russian writer of short stories and plays. Middle man is Muhammad Ali, aka Cassius Clay "float like a butterfly sting like a bee," some say the precursor for rap music, oh and world heavy weight boxer champion. Then the electrifying Ben Franklin, signer of DOI, inventor, statesman, lived on Milk Street in Philly.

Event at White Lotus Home, New Brunswick NJ

2007-01-07T21:00:00.000-05:00

Seven assemblage pieces will be on display at White Lotus Home in New Brunswick New Jersey through March 21st. Here is the invite for the opening event.

COMMUNITY ART AND HOME DESIGN EVENT

On Jan 11, 2007, White Lotus Home will be sponsoring the first ever Community Art and Home Design Event. Local artists and interior designers will be showcased at 191 Hamilton Street. Please join us from 6:00 PM-9:00 PM for live music and light organic refreshments.

-This is a free event focused on artists and interior designers who want to display a green approach to design

- January 11^th, 2007 from 6 Pm until 9PM

- 191 Hamilton Street, New Brunswick NJ 08901

- RSVP is a must! Please email lindsey@whitelotus.net

- Sponsors welcome

- If inclement weather should occur, the event will be rescheduled to January 18 2007

Off to Kansas: Baker Arts Center

2007-01-02T18:28:00.000-05:00

"Whiter than Rice" is off to Kansas! If any of you happen to be in that area stop by for a visit. I will be east coast bound for the duration of the visit. Here is the press release:

Baker Arts Center
10th National Juried Art Exhibit
January 13-February 24, 2007
Juror Stephen Wicks, an Independent Curator has sleected over 70 works of art created by 58 artists from 27 states and the District of Columbia to be exhibited in the Baker Arts Center's 10th National Juried Art Exhibition. This year's show will include artwork showing great diversity in materials, techniques, and styles among the two and three-dimensional and photographic categories. Exhibit sponsors are Bill and Virginia Colvin. The Center also receives operational support from the Kanasas Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts.
This exhibit opens with a private reception for the artists, their guests, and members on January 13th and will be open to the public on January 16th. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday 9:00-5:00, 2:00 to 5:00 on Saturdays and closed Mondays. The address is Baker Arts Center 624 N. Pershing, Liberal Kansas.

Tenant Cubanocast

2006-12-20T14:55:00.000-05:00

My tenant this week features Cuban music and old videos...excellent stuff. Click and feel some babalu!

A Fruitful New Year!

2006-12-19T09:38:00.000-05:00

Here's to a happy and fruitful New Year with hand extended for good cheer.

The "White House"

2006-12-12T11:27:00.000-05:00

A new piece, I am almost finished with. Again all white, not sure that I like the fat beads. A bit distracting as fat beads often are. Will publish picture later...this is not working for some reason.

Artist Trading Cards

2006-12-08T11:37:00.000-05:00

This are a great way to jump start some studio time. Just use 2.5 X3.5 cards, scraps etc and make these cards. They can become a catalyst for larger projects. Also are to be traded like traditional trading cards as well.

Illustrations for Children's Steeldrum songbook

2006-11-17T12:58:00.000-05:00

Have been very busy....but here is some new stuff.

Betye Saar

2006-10-20T12:55:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday I attended a lecture by philadelphia artist, Beverly Bullock at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine ARts. Bullocks work is mostly collage on paper with African themes, especially women. After the lecture I went upstairs to the eht Betye Saar exhibit "Extending the Frozen Moment" of her assemblage with photographs. Very moving and amazing images, my favorite was a large dress on paper with hues of yellow and gold called "High Yellow." An added treat was watching Beverly Bullock and some of her friends view the exhibit. The following is from the PAFA website:

Betye Saar: Extending the Frozen Moment

Through December 10, 2006

Known particularly for her use of mixed media, this exhibition will focus on Saar's persistent use of the photograph and the impact of the photographic realm in her art. From her earliest experimentations with assemblage in the late 1960s to her installations of the present, Saar has employed the photograph as a storytelling device, transferring personal memory into the realm of history.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2006-10-08T11:44:00.000-04:00

A portion of a doll painting that I did several years ago while taking a class in still life painting at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. This one was done as a homework assignment and took quite awhile. The underpainting was in purple with oh so many layers on top. The best detail, the foot is not included as my scanner was not tall enough for the whole thing. My mother was dying of breast cancer when this was painted and as usual my feelings of that sad realty are reflected in the painting.

Fortunate Cookie...

2006-09-22T09:24:00.000-04:00

or what to do with a drawer full of old fortunes, some chinese brush practise drawings, and a ruined bamboo brush. The fortune of the mask says, You are original and creative.

Modern Humanist

2006-09-18T11:13:00.000-04:00

I spent about an hour at this site, and highly recommend it. Am adding it as a link as well. Gives one so much to think about found so much that I agree with with regards to religion and philosophy.This is from the about page.

Welcome to Modern Humanist, an online journal of modern humanism and humanist thought. Here you will find news, ideas, information and insights on the world. It’s life through the eyes of modern humanist philosophy. Modern Humanist is not only for humanists and freethinkers but for anyone interested in reason, exploration and understanding. Think for yourself and enjoy your life.

As you can see this is a new site. It’s purpose is to offer a view of Modern Humanism and it’s place in the world and community. Not only is Modern Humanism a life philosophy, but it’s also a beacon for rational and thinking minds that believe that life can be lived not only well, but inspired. An inspired life without the need for, or desire for, supernatural forces, limiting beliefs and traditions. A life without hateful, divisive and violent practices that only serve the segregation, isolation and destruction of community rather than the harmony, equality and unity of it.

Modern Humanist will present understanding, perspective and practical wisdom on how to incorporate humanist principals into life and community and how to serve as an example to and for others.

Lastly, Modern Humanist seeks to provide viable answers and life perspectives to the community to illustrate that humanists are not only as moral, neighborly and dedicated to freedom as any church-going person, but also to help illustrate that the philosophical, moral and ethical questions of our time can be answered without the need to impinge on life, liberty or the pursuit of happiness for any citizen of the world or subvert their lives in favor of any other.

September 11, 2001

2006-09-11T08:47:00.000-04:00

The sky was as clear and crisp and blue five years ago as it is today. A beautiful day, just like today. Just before getting out of my car I heard a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center....must be a small prop plane...it thought. Our group started with presentations, someone interrupted telling us another plane had crashed into the towers. We continued, then another person came in and said a plane had crashed into the Pentagon...someone in the group said, "We are at war"..we adjourned. The day was still crisp and clean and lovely, and smoke poured out of the towers and souls jumped to their deaths and others watched horrified and helpless from below. Then the towers came crashing down. I was in the studio trying to copy a rather benign pastel I had painted of a small portion of a Van Gogh. Mostly, I was inspired by the colors and the daisys. But what I came up with was no copy. This one is much more dramatic, as I watched the news coverage. In a symbolic way the two daisys represent the towers and shaken innocence that crashed and burned during that event. They seem to be falling. Have not looked at this piece in some time, but thought it appropriate given this fifth anniversary. Peace to any of you or your loved ones affected by this ongoing tragedy.

A song by Paul Hipp click on post title

Bonnie MacAllister

2006-09-08T08:26:00.000-04:00

Save the date September 23rd!
Bonnie MacAllister is showing her work with other artists in the area at 4014 Walnut Street at 7pm. Bonnie is the operations administrator of October Gallery and an accomplished painter, filmmaker and spoken word performance artist, as well as a DGP(darn good person.)

"Painter, filmmaker, and spoken word performance artist, Bonnie MacAllister "reveals the structure of fragments, decoding illicit meaning in elicitly abstract poses." West Philadelphia resident MacAllister has been published on three continents and has performed at over sixty venues including the Wilma Theatre and the Adrienne Theatre.

An independent film maker and oil painter, she is the Publicity and Membership Chair of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Women's Caucus for Art. She has most recently exhibited at Café Soleil, Zonk Arts Gallery, and will show in March at the Highwire Gallery with the Women’s Caucus for Art. Films which she has worked on have been visible at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Musée de la Mode in Paris, France."

You can visit her website here: Bonnie MacAllister

Chick etc...

2006-09-03T18:21:00.000-04:00

Jazz cruise with your best chick, Could this be Love? The assemblage and a detail. Comprised of a flattened penny, lock, wooden piece that looks like a saxaphonist, a tiny ink painting I did of a chick, music, a leaf on a piece of cork. Feels like autumn as well. Thanks to all you good folks who braced the torrential down pour and stopped by my booth at the October Gallery. Also thanks to Bonnie Mcallister for all her help and good conversation.

The Foo Logs

2006-09-01T00:25:00.000-04:00

Stop by my tenant this week, The Foo Logs, a blog about life, technology, sports and movies. Interesting sites with good blogging info. I liked the list of current social bookmarking sites, and the growing older pics of Andre Agassi. Also found out about:

A Blog in a Book: You can now publish and sell your blog/photoblog on actual printed books for cheap with a new service called Blurb.com. They officially opened to the public this week - check them out!

Anyway, a space worth your time, go there.

And if you happen to be in Philly this weekend stop by the October Gallery at 68 north 2nd street for First Friday, 5-9pm. I have a little booth there with some small things, will also be there 12-3pm on Saturday.

Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White

2006-08-30T11:48:00.000-04:00

New Assemblage sculpture created with old sheet music as a theme. Mostly the colors and Jane Russell swimming under water with a knife were the inspirations. The curler, and pink wood, and shell I found combing the beach in Singer Island, FL.

When You are Old by William Butler Yeats

2006-08-17T12:00:00.000-04:00

WHEN you are old and gray and full of sleep
And nodding by the fire, take down this book,
And slowly read, and dream of the soft look
Your eyes had once, and of their shadows deep;

How many loved your moments of glad grace,
And loved your beauty with love false or true;
But one man loved the pilgrim soul in you,
And loved the sorrows of your changing face.

And bending down beside the glowing bars,
Murmur, a little sadly, how love fled
And paced upon the mountains overhead,
And hid his face amid a crowd of stars.

No, I did not read this poem in my brooding teenage years, or study it in college, was an english major after all. But mostly I was first turned on to it from the the Francis Ford Copella movie "Peggy Sue Got Married." Love this movie, and think all high school teenagers should watch it. Premise being, if you could go back to high school knowing what you know now, what would you do differently. Here is a great still of Peggy Sue with the Bohemian Michael Fitzsimmons, reciter of the Yeats poem.

Stars, Songs, Faces

2006-08-14T10:21:00.000-04:00

Gather the stars if you wish it so.
Gather the songs and keep them.
Gather the faces of women.
Gather for keeping
years and years.
And then..........

Loosen your hands,
Let them go and say good-by.
Let the stars and the songs go.
Let the faces and years go.
Loosen your hands,
and say
good-by.

By Carl Sandburg 1920

This is a blank journal I altered, am also finishing
a larger work inspired by the same poem.

Asia Minor

2006-07-17T15:03:00.000-04:00

Examples of some Japanese Brush paintings. There are a number of the magnolia and lotus series in various sizes and on different types of wasi paper. More fish and flower paintings will be completed by the end of August, as well as a large panda piece. I studied Japanese Brush painting with Keiko Miyamori at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts for two semesters. She is an outstanding artist and teacher as well. Both the magnolia painting and the bamboo can be found in reproduction at My CafePress store.

Stumbling Through Life With Grace

2006-07-13T10:16:00.000-04:00

My tenant this week is 3rd times a charm, aka 3T, owner of the blog "Stumbling Through Life with Grace." 3T is a blogger after my own heart, and age brackett, and has a great blog design. The blog is described as a "Diary of a psychologically, analytical,neurotic, closet Bitch. Musings of a retired bad-girl, who unwittingly stumbled in to life as I know it today. (Material contains bad girl tales,daily life,psycho babble, venting, and some adult content. Mature audiences only."
Her content is really diverse, with quizes and promos as well as photos of herself and fellow blog ladies, one of which is Jade, who I rented from a while back. You can find out what sort of Martini you are, and check out Jade's party of the season, which looks like large fun.

Good Bebble. Also she will be the first tenant to receive a free "Pinky the Watering Troll" magnet as a thank you gift.

My CafePress Store

2006-07-11T00:11:00.000-04:00

A Few Items from my new CafePress Store. The light switch cover turned out great, and has a nice enameled look, easy to clean as well. The journal is blank unruled paper. There are many more items for sale, tile coaster, greeting cards, t-shirts, magnets etc. Click to the left at the CafePress Button or on the link of this post. The items are ordered directly from CafePress and they take all forms of creditcards or paypal. The things I ordered looked great, I was really amazed with the quailty of the transfers.

Happy Birthday!

2006-07-03T10:14:00.000-04:00

Have a rockin' birthday, hope you eat lots of cake, do some funky dances, get many expensive presents from all your admirers. Yabba Dabba DOOOO!!!!

Air and Angels

2006-07-02T16:26:00.000-04:00

This one is for a friend who buried her husband this weekend, peace to you and your family during this time of grief.

Bamboo

2006-07-01T10:28:00.000-04:00

Ink on speckled Wasi paper. The chops are both my own designs. Other brush paintings to follow.

The Walt Whitman Bridge

2006-06-25T14:51:00.000-04:00

Tis' the season for a patriotic post. Whitman used this quote to discribe Carl Sandberg, "his country absorbs him as affectionately as he has absorbed it." Also it could apply to defining a true american artist of national reputation, Andrew Wyeth comes to mind..... and what a world it would be if politicians tried a little absorbtion and less banner waving.
This is a journal cover that I altered with various bits of paper and scraps of fabric. Really wanted to achieve a sense of humility contrasting with a certain "proud ragedness." Since I scanned it rather than photographing the colors are less vibrant. May do a larger piece with same theme and quote.

Eco Arts

2006-06-16T10:21:00.000-04:00

In celebration of WORLD ENVIROMENT DAY, Wednesday, June 5th Art4Development launched an international 'eco-arts' project To celebrate World Environment Day. I submitted "Whiter than Rice" to this project and it can be found on page 7 of their down loadable catalogue. To view the entire catalogue click the post title, then the eco' arts icon then the projects link. Will post some work from the catalogue in upcoming weeks. More info about Art4 Development from their website is as follows:

"eco'arts project by Arts For Global Development | Art4Development.Net intends to tackle vital developmental issues with creativity; inform and inspire individuals to take preventive actions; and acknowledge those creative individuals who focus on habitat and environmental challenges. eco'arts consists of an arts project presenting images of artworks / projects / performances created by artists and advocates from around the world; a catalogue listing information on the arts project participants; an online site providing resources about creative projects that address environmental issues; and an educational event in Washington DC commemorating the World Environment Day (WED). WED celebrated each year on June 5th, is one of the principal vehicles through which the United Nations stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and enhances citizen action.
The eco'arts event took place on June 8 at the International Visions Arts Gallery featuring guest speaker, David Waskow who is the International Program Director of the non-profit organization, Friends of the Earth. He emphasized the effects of climate change, global warming and gas consumptions as well as provided guidelines in which participants could implement in protecting the environment. The Arts For Global Development, Inc founder and president Nil Sismanyazici Navaie presented the eco'arts project, talked about the connection between the arts and the environment, and highlighted the importance of taking immediate preventive measures on environmental issues. In addition, the Creator of Postcards from Katrina Project, Tambra Stevenson introduced her project to bring awareness that people in the Gulf Region still need help and hope. The arts project of eco'arts was launched in May 2006 to facilitate an opportunity for individuals / groups (who care about environmental issues; use environmental friendly materials and recycled objects to shape their work; raise awareness on environmental challenges or organize eco-friendly projects) to share their works and ideas. Through the call placed on Art4Development.Net E-Community and supporting online platforms, within 31 days of its launch eco'arts received artwork and art project images from over 60 artists from the US, Canada, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Sierra Leone, Columbia, Angola, Finland, South Africa… The eco'arts mural, suspended from the ceiling, displays images of artworks / projects / performances created by those artists and advocates who shared their work with Art4Development.Net. The mural measures 24 x 48 inches and has two sides. eco'arts, which is a collage of works placed on wood, decorated with acrylic paint, mirrors, ornament, and silk leaves, depicts the connection of humanity and environment, and calls for protective action! The eco'arts event guests were artists, representatives of cultural organizations,
environmental agencies, graduate students, development and social marketing specialists, and more."

Winsome Gunning

2006-06-15T10:38:00.000-04:00

Winsome is an Australia Goldcoast artist whose work I have in my own collection. This piece is one from the 90's that I really like for the contrasting seipia flowers with the brightness of the ocean. The blues from the ocean and sky seem to seep into the room flooding the floor with the blue checkered pattern. Click the title of this post to visit Winsome's sight and see her current work which is quite different from this piece.

Where will Pinky Go?

2006-06-02T11:25:00.000-04:00

Adventure and a new home await Pinky The Watering Troll. Today starts her auction on EBAY, she will be available for ten days. Say goodbye will be bitter-sweet, but the time has come for her to spread her special magic to someone else...the magic of starting over, of being down and out in a flea market in New Jersey, rescued by a 10 year old and given a new outfit and hairdo, matching pink boa...and then a perfect home to take with you always. She is headed for adventure wide-eyed and happy, and will bring that spirit to whom ever gives her a home. Just click on the word "Pinky" or the title of this post and you will go directly to my auction. Leave any good wishes for her in the comments section of this post.

Outerbanks

2006-06-01T12:10:00.000-04:00

The painting at the right is a cottage in Nagshead, NC where our family spent many summers. A big old rambling cottage that was always painted white with red shutters, it had 10 bedrooms and was built in the 30's I believe. The sand is coarse and an orange color and the water is colder, Gulf Stream does not go up that far. Playing under the cottage was one of my favorite things to do as a little girl. One summer I created a Croatan village out of sea oat stems and fishing line. iStanding on the stairs is "Little Mitchel" the lady of the house and the bathing beauty facing sideways is my grandmother back in the day. I never knew Little Mitchell, her step daughter Ruby was my grandmother's good friend and always invited us to stay with her in the summer.

Fragile Industries

2006-05-28T23:39:00.000-04:00

Many apologies to my tenant this week as I am late with introductions...caught a nasty cold from me better half. Fragile Industries is a varied and dynamic site with posts about exciting assemblage/altered art work as well as website issues and philosophy...a post with Talking Heads song Once in a Life Time. Ironically this song was running through my brain all day to day. Was also very intrigued with book selections, esp CS Lewis' C.S. Lewis: "The Weight of Glory"
"I am trying to rip open THE INCONSOLABLE SECRET in each one of you -- the secret which hurts so much that you take your revenge on it by calling it names like Nostalgia and Romanticism and Adolescence." There is much too this blog and I am sure to go back many times. And so should the rest of you.

Hollow Tree

2006-05-25T14:31:00.000-04:00

A small painting on board that I did in Landscape class, for some reason my instructor really liked it. Product did not actually coincide with my vision, but it does have a bit of a zing on some level. The perspective is looking down into this hollow tree that has a triangular hole in the back where bright light comes through. Was quite tough to paint as a subject, for me anyway. My paintings will also get more color bang if I switch from Winton student grade paint to Windsor and Newton professional...or so I am told. I added the frame and border, makes me like the painting a bit more. Maybe I will go back and paint it again another day, did learn a bit from this one.

Buffalo Gals

2006-05-19T10:59:00.000-04:00

This is a journal, I altered the cover, but the inside is blank. The photo is my grandmother's aunt Liza...the pretty one of the 5 Sykes aunts that she was so fond of. As a military wife she was able to travel the world, living for many years in the Philipines, and is buried in Arlington cemetary. I have a number of photos of these sisters from the early 1900's as the older brother was a photographer. My grandmother us to say that family was not especially wealthy or poor, but they were "good livers." Seems we should all aspire to be such.
Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed sang "Buffalo Gals" coming home from the school dance in the movie "It's a Wonderful Life." t An appropriate journal for a Buffalo Gal to record events leading up to and after dancing by the light of de moon.

Mama Makes Stuff

2006-05-17T08:59:00.000-04:00

My tenant this week is a Florida artist, "Fidget." Her site features her work, guest artists, as well as tips and how toos. A very expressive first Altered book is a must see and there is a link to her gallery as well. She is very supportive of the visual arts and crafts of her fellow moms out there, and wants to feature them in her blog. Creating is great therapy especially at a time in your life when demands are high...I started painting and creating when my kids were toddlers and it was the best thing I ever did. Keep it up!

A Bit Chilli Tonight

2006-05-13T21:42:00.000-04:00

Indeed. So here are some chilies in a bottle that I painted in a class on light and shadow in Still Life. Spent a great deal of time on the background before I even began painting the objects, three hours. Then next class painted the rest, did a raspberry glaze over the table that the chilies were on. The box behind the bottle was one of those gold godiva chocolate boxes. Hope to take a class on glazing over the summer. Tomorrow is landscape painting class, it is very rainy here though and we may have to meet in an alternative in door space. My canvas is stretched and brushes are cleaned, must remember to take a real break at lunch tomorrow and not try and paint the whole time.

Philadelphia from Bartram Gardens

2006-05-08T09:12:00.000-04:00

A close value painting I did in Landscape painting class. From a distance and with a soft and fertile landscape spread before it our city of "Brotherly Love" appears welcoming and still obtuse. So far I have only been able to paint it from a distance and feel a strong compulsion to include urban elements in all the landscapes. Capturing light is the most gratifying experience, although when I do finally get it, it is almost by mistake. So far the wind has been the most biggest obstacle in painting "en plein air." Oh, and a wet black lab that ran by and licked my painting of the inside of a hollow tree.

Happy Birthday Mom!

2006-04-26T10:57:00.000-04:00

My mother was born 66 years ago today. She was and educator and an accomplished water-color artist who lived most of her life in a small town in Eastern North Carolina. More than that she was so kind and compassionate, that most people she knew loved her dearly. Her spirit was joyful and she loved to sing and dance, especially tap-dance and filled the air with delightful energy. She always helped women going through difficult times, and was never judgemental of anyone or there situation. Through her actions she taught me never to listen to gossip and to give everyone, no matter what their circumstances, a chance. Our home growing up was full of friends who were always stopping by, she cherished her friendships so much.
On Christmas eve of 2003 my mother died very peacefully in her home surrounded by family and friends of breast cancer. Every year on her birthday I plant some white iris and have birthday cake, chocolate with white icing...her favorite, with my family. We watch some videos of her and dance around the livingroom...we did that growing up. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her, but on April 29th I hope to always celebrate her birthday and her spirit....there are no others like her.

Since the education of children and the visual arts were so important to her I have set up an memorial challenge with Donors Choose to contribute money to several art related programs in underfunded schools in eastern North Carolina. Clicking the button at the top of the page will take you directly to the program where you can make your donations.

Bridesmaid Revisited

2006-04-25T10:27:00.000-04:00

This"altered doll" is entered in the Art Dolls competition in Houston. She is made from a seed pod, wooden vase, cabinet handle, scrap cloth, some tissue paper from a Christmas present and other bits and pieces. She looks like she is forever walking down an aisle, head bowed dress flowing. Only 16inches high she attracts lots of attention, probably upstaging the "bride." Personally, I preferred the role of bridesmaid to bride, and the role of wedding quest even more. Perhaps that will be my next doll, the wedding quest accompanied by Ancient Mariner. A Special Thank You to my husband for taking these and many more photos!

Send Mom to Texas for Mother's Day

2006-04-22T20:04:00.000-04:00

My tenant the week is "Texas RV Travel" and has great articles of where to travel in the lone star state...something I care about as I have this little cutie to go visit. Here is a list of articles, find out where one of the best spas in the country is in Texas:
Matagorda Bay Nature Park on Texas Coast
Garner State Park is Still Popular for Tubing, Dancing and Exploring
Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Send Your Mom to Spa Resort
Pristine Paddling Trail on Texas Coast
Songbirds, Canyonlands, Star Shine and YOU
More Tales from Texas Water Safari
Texas Water Safari Stories
Experienced Anglers Wanted

Just look at her, ready for an adventure.

THE WINNER IS.................

2006-04-16T19:32:00.000-04:00

JILL! Really hard choosing from all
those excellent entries. Basically I
wrote everyone's name on individual
pieces of paper, folded them,
put them in a coffe mug and
picked out Jill's. So there she is in virtual top drawer form.
Cheers to you all and thanks again.

Assemblage Portraits Contest!

2006-03-27T12:36:00.000-05:00

Here is my first virtual assemblage portrait. "Once I was a queen, now merely a threadneck" She was made with various cut and paste from Printshop and some of my own art. Soo, how about a contest. Go to your top drawer and describe some of the junk or treasures inside, maybe even a few details about you or your stuff...PG rated if you please. After a random number of people have commented on this post or e-mailed me I will randomly pick someone's entry and make a portrait of you out of your virtual stuff. You can post it on your website if you like. If you are simply mad about the whole idea we can talk about creating an actual portrait of you from your real stuff, or some close facsimile stuff and you can hang it in your office, or at home, or give it to your mum for mothers day. So start your pilfering.

Turtles, Volcanos, and Masks

2006-03-23T13:51:00.000-05:00

Never ceases to amaze me what people want on their drums. Have many orders for these, must be spring fever or something. Have not had a call to do any dancing ladies, tropical fish or flamingoes, which are typically my favorites. Not sure about this big yellow mask on the drum, he is new and a bit unnerving. Hopefully will photograph more of the assemblage works later in the week.

This little guys is having a grand time. Wish I was swimming in the sea.

Welcome to Winsome Gunning my new tenant.

2006-03-15T12:21:00.000-05:00

From down under, an Australian acrylic painter dedicated to the Creative Spirit. Really beautiful pieces of art as well as art exercises and spiritual points to contemplate.
"The paintings I produce are about working from the creative spirit within. At different times themes emerge which I feel drawn to develop but always my work is about discovering this spirit and listening to its promptings. It is a daily walk to keep myself clear of the blocks which stop me connecting to this creative flow."
Her site is a nice place to visit as well and some of her paintings are available for purchase through the ebay store.

New Drums

2006-03-13T10:43:00.000-05:00

Parrots and Kool Katz are going out today. One to Florida and the other to California. The cat drum was a custom order to paint a yellow drum with black cats. So this is what I came up with. I kind of like it even though it took a very long time. Perhaps I will do a painting of it as well. There are more drums to paint so off I go.
Clicking on the title of this post will take you to the ebay site we have to sell the drums. Have had a few requests of late.

Ms Hopewell Hand

2006-03-04T18:51:00.000-05:00

The Hopewell hand is made of mica and
found in Ohio in a Hopewell Indian burial site.
For me the hand represents healing, or the
laying on of hands. Ms Hopewell hand
brings health and well being to anyone
fortunate enough to have her in their home.
Originally she was a cutting board that
I covered with Thai paper. I made her a
lovely shaw out of a vest I wore in the
'80s and her head is from a brass picture
frame that I put a collage face made
with bits of colored paper. Her "hand"
is water color paper cut in
the exact shape of the hopewell hand...
she has a heart of "gold."

Blues and Golds

2006-02-23T12:25:00.000-05:00

Still Magnolia

2006-02-14T23:34:00.000-05:00

Japanese ink brush painting on bamboo paper. Completed in 2003.

HAVING A BALL!

2006-02-13T23:02:00.000-05:00

New Painting finished in class several weeks ago. Oil on Canvas.

Whiter than Rice

2006-02-11T10:35:00.000-05:00

Assemblage of mostly "white" found objects as well as original Japanese ink paintings explores the relativeness of color, shadows, and shape as well are compartmentalizing thematic associations of still-life, portrait, and landscape....empty, full, crowded and sparce, revealing and witholding. This photo is warmer than the actual piece, will post another image later.

Altered ARt and Assemblage

Fish and Flower

"Southern Cross"

Moon stuck!

"Lady Sings the Blues" wins honorable mention in MCGOPA Fall Juried Show

Splendid Silent Sun

Chair for WCA "A Seat at the Table" Fringe Festival

Assemblage piece looking for just the right verse

Undone

New Work

Life with coffee spoon

From the Six Women Six Perspectives Opening

Six Women Six Perspectives

Money it's a gas................

Mermaid singing

Commissions etc

Flappers, Jesters, and Socket covers on Wainscotting

Scenes from opening receptions in Wilmington, DE

Two Shows in Wilmington

Congrats to Mrs Floyd E Cahoon

Manchester National Juried Fine Art Exhibition

Two pieces in National Juried Exhibitions

Bells for John Whitesides Daughter

Those dancing days are gone by carla bruni

Please vote for Me!

Row

Getting through the winter painting plum blossoms

From Studio tour set up

Mrs. Floyd E. Cahoon goes to Knoxville, TN

Some works in Progress

Wallingford Community Arts Center Fine Arts and Crafts Festival

Stars, Songs, Faces Assemblage

From the Plastic Club Reception

Whiter than Rice in exhibition

"The Plastic Club"

Art Club & Gallery 247 South Camac StreetPhiladelphia, Pa 19107215-545-9324

"The Art of Sacrifice"

Happy Birthday!

Studio Photos...its coming along

Magnolia and Mule Vase

From the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival Exhibit

Not Sure

By Hand

Mrs. Floyd E Cahoon

Iris in a Copper Pitcher

Still life in blue and orange

Studio 6

From MKR and my former backyard

Gusta's Magnolia

Mainline First Fridays at Viking Culinary Arts Center

Art of the Flower 2007

Moving out of the Diningroom

Helen Kate Furness Fund Raiser

"Tarawa" in Richmond

12 12 Gallery12 East 12th StreetRichmond, Virginia 23224(804) 233-9957Gallery HoursThursday and Friday 12 - 4 PMSaturday 11 - 6 PMSunday 12 - 5 PM

Happy Birthday to Moi!

Event at White Lotus Home, New Brunswick NJ

Off to Kansas: Baker Arts Center

Tenant Cubanocast

A Fruitful New Year!

The "White House"

Artist Trading Cards

Illustrations for Children's Steeldrum songbook

Betye Saar

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Fortunate Cookie...

Modern Humanist

September 11, 2001

Bonnie MacAllister

Chick etc...

The Foo Logs

Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White

When You are Old by William Butler Yeats

Stars, Songs, Faces

Asia Minor

Stumbling Through Life With Grace

My CafePress Store

Happy Birthday!

Air and Angels

Bamboo

Art Club & Gallery
247 South Camac Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19107
215-545-9324

12 12 Gallery
12 East 12th Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
(804) 233-9957
Gallery Hours
Thursday and Friday 12 - 4 PM
Saturday 11 - 6 PM
Sunday 12 - 5 PM