Three Blue Penguins

elk

2012-01-27T15:19:00.001-08:00

My sighting on the way home today:

trade

2012-01-21T15:57:00.000-08:00

Today was the last of the three collage workshops I facilitated at the Durango Arts Center. For our final project, we each made enough trading cards to exchange one with every participant in the class.

These are my own cards, which I offered up for trade:

These are the cards I received, one from each of the eight students in today's workshop:

the winners

2012-01-13T01:54:00.000-08:00

THIRD PLACE
photo by Chet Anderson

SECOND PLACE
collage by Anthony Holmquist

BEST IN SHOW
painting by Maryellen Morrow

yet more press

2012-01-12T07:47:00.000-08:00

Juror Nancy Harris describes a piece by painter Stephanie Mae Smith, which now hangs in the Durango Arts Center’s most recent exhibit, “Abstract Views.” It is the DAC’s first all-abstract show./Photo by Steve Eginoire

Viewing the abstract

DAC’s latest show explores the ‘unconscious’ side of art

by Stew Mosberg

The Durango Telegraph

The controversial 1950s art critic Clement Greenberg was arguably the first to recognize Abstract Expressionism’s significance. He believed the foundation of “modern” painting was the elimination of all references to the visible world and putting less importance on painting’s purely formal elements; the canvas’ surface and the colors spread across it. One major star among what is called the “second generation” of Abstract Expressionists, was Helen Frankenthaler, who passed away just a few weeks ago. Not only was she one of the few women who broke the art world’s “glass ceiling,” she influenced thousands of artists, both male and female, ever since her first triumphant exhibition in New York City.

Coincidentally, the Durango Arts Center recently unveiled “Abstract Views,” an exhibition of art by 29 artists, almost all of whom are women.

Asked about the heavily skewed feminine representation, curators Nancy Harris and Joan Levine Russell said they weren’t sure why that is the case, but guessed that there are just more female artists in Durango, particularly those practicing abstract art.

As DAC shows go, there have been few, if none, art exhibitions that have been completely abstract in content, so both curators thought it was time to change that. Harris lent her expertise as a museum curator in California, including the well-known Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

While she was surprised by the lack of three-dimensional art submitted to the DAC show, she was pleased by the 97 images that came in for review. The submissions were ultimately culled down to 56 pieces by 29 artists; 23 of them from Durango, with three from Bayfield, and one each from Cortez, Mancos and Ridgway.

The cross-section of work varies in medium, with acrylic and oil being the most prevalent, but photography, glass and printmaking are also represented, with one clever piece of sculptural assemblage by Jenny Treanor.

Those who enjoy art but are not comfortable with abstract work frequently admit they don’t know why it is even considered art. For those who fit into that category, it might be helpful for them to first accept that the abstract image usually does away with traditional beginnings, middles and ends. Secondly, as unsettling as that may be, nonrepresentational abstract art is not restricted to recognizable subject matter. And, it is typically about the artists’ emotions being expressed via free, unrestrained, almost subconscious execution.

One of the most celebrated Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock, had said, “The unconscious is a very important side of modern art, and I think unconscious drives do mean a lot in looking at paintings.”

Harris remarked that the DAC artists, while “not as challenging (to the viewer) or controversial” as some work she has seen in California, are noteworthy for their diversity.

Levine Russell acknowledged that the work is “fairly accessible to look at,” and further stated how easy it is for children to accept abstract. “Children just enjoy it. They’re not looking for any (hidden meanings) in it.

The duo’s original call for entries was limited to original works of abstract art which were not previously displayed at the DAC. All of the work on view with one exception, a piece by Alexis Mclean, is for sale, and cash awards will also be given.

Visitors to the Barbara Conrad Gallery should make a point of picking up the information sheet containing the curator’s and artists’ statements. It is a valuable guide to the show wherein the artists explain their works or define their interpretation of abstract art. In addition, Harris and Levine-Russell expound on their beliefs and also qualify the rationale behind mounting a nonrepresentational art exhibit in Durango.

“We each perceive the world uniquely,” they state, “and art is a reflection of our individual views. ‘Abstract Views’ explores the myriad ways that 29 local artists see the world through the lens of abstraction.”

Levine Russell, a former adjunct professor at FLC, is represented locally by the Diane West Gallery. She and Harris view abstract art in a similar way and incorporated their beliefs into the judging process when selecting the art for acceptance.

In their own words, abstract art, “takes as its subject matter the elements of form, color, line, texture and space. Abstraction also includes art that derives from something in the visible world: a landscape, an individual or a still life, for example, but which is expressed in such a way that the subject may not be realistic or recognizable.”

Any of these descriptive terms can be identified in the DAC exhibit and can be an effective way to view the show if you are new to abstract art.

The names of the artists are listed alongside the images including the titles, mediums and pricing. But if you didn’t already know the majority of the work derived from a feminine hand, it’s a safe bet you wouldn’t have a clue. That’s not a criticism, nor an accolade, it’s an observation.

Gender issues aside, this is a superlative show and worth repeat visits.

“Abstract Views” in the Barbara Conrad Gallery at the Durango Arts Center, 802 Second Ave., runs through Jan. 28. Upstairs at the Friends of the Library gallery is a mixed-media exhibit of work by Andrea Martens exploring the contradictions of space and confinement.

Abstract Views

2012-01-11T06:31:00.000-08:00

The show I've been working on for months is finally up! Here's what you see when you enter the gallery:

I stand proudly in front of the title wall with my co-curator, Joan Levine Russell:

It was a great pleasure working with Joan on this show. There was no guarantee that the two of us would agree on the critical aspects of putting this exhibition together -- selecting work, designing and installing the show, etc. But it turns out that we have similar artistic sensibilities and opinions about art. We agreed on almost everything, and when we didn't, we negotiated successfully. We made a great team!

* * * * * * * * * *

Below are photos of many of the show's 56 pieces, represented by 29 local artists.

Maureen May x 2

Left: Anthony Holmquist
Top right: Mary Ellen Long
Bottom right: Chet Anderson

Top & bottom left: Gaines L. Godfrey
Right: Sharon Abshagen

Left to right: Susan Wise, Maryellen Morrow, Susan Reed x 2, June McCartney, Stephanie Mae Smith, Alexis McLean

Left to right: B. Summer Lynch, Judy Hayes x 2, Nancy Richmond x 2, Maureen May x 2

Left: Maryellen Morrow
Right: Andrea Martens

Left: Susan Wise
Right: Stephanie Mae Smith

Andrea Martens

Top left: Andrea Martens
Bottom left: Anthony Holmquist
Center & right: Mary Ellen Long

Left to right: Gaines L. Godfrey, Sharon Abshagen, Joanie Bauer Hupp, June McCartney, Joanie Bauer Hupp

Left: MariKay Shellman
Right: Susan Wise

Maureen May

Top & bottom left: Jan Goldman
Center & right: Barbara Tobin Klema

Jenny Treanor

Left to right, Susan Reed x 2, June McCartney, Stephanie Mae Smith

Coming soon: Award Winners

more press

2012-01-10T15:40:00.000-08:00

Do you see what I see?

‘Abstract Views’ provides look into minds of artists at Durango Arts Center

by Ted Holteen, Herald Staff Writer

photos by Steve Lewis, Herald Photographer

It was a full-house Friday at the Durango Arts Center for the opening of the center’s annual exhibit of that most inexplicable of painting styles. “Abstract Views” features 29 local and regional artists in a colorful and varied display that was juried by Joan Levine Russell and Nancy Harris. At least they knew what they were looking for.

“It’s not that subjective,” Russell said.

“Abstract painting is based on principles of design, composition and a mastery of materials and colors. We used that criteria and judged each piece on its own merits.”

Maryellen Morrow took honors for “Best in Show” for her oil painting “White Out.”

“It has great balance of dynamics – warm and cool, and the way the blue, black, green and white is woven together. It’s kind of an emotional energy, and you can feel it,” Russell said of Morrow’s piece.

Fort Lewis College professor Anthony Holmquist took second place for his collage “System Stereocyclegraph” and Chet Anderson won third place for his black-and-white silver gelatin photo “Bistahi.”

Second-place winner “System Stereocyclegraph,” by Anthony Holmquist, was worth a look at Friday night’s opening of “Abstract Views” at the Durango Arts Center.

Works by local artists Nancy Richmond and Maureen May attract a crowd at Friday’s opening reception of “Abstract Views” at the Durango Arts Center.

Shay Lopez looks at a piece by Anthony Holmquist, left, and Chet Anderson’s photograph “Bistahi,” which took third place in “Abstract Views” on Friday evening at the Durango Arts Center.

Work by local artist Kimberly Beal, left and center, catch a visitor’s eye Friday evening at the Durango Arts Center.

“White Out,” by Maryellen Morrow, took best in show on Friday evening at the Durango Arts Center.

collage workshop at DAC

2012-01-08T19:30:00.000-08:00

Mixed Media Collage facilitated by Nancy Harris (For adults and teens)

Saturdays, Jan 7, 14, & 21, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Participants will explore basic techniques of mixed media collage, using paper, paint, and found objects. No previous experience necessary. Class size limited to 8 students.
Cost is $20 per workshop or $50 for all three workshops and includes materials.

Day one of three was a great success! It was a full house -- ten students -- and we all had a wonderful, creative time. Heck, I even had to shoo everyone out at 1 p.m. because the participants were so engrossed in their projects. That's a very good sign! I'm looking forward to the next two sessions.

January at DAC

2012-01-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

Abstract Views
The exhibit runs Jan. 6-28 at the Durango Arts Center. Featured artists are Sharon Abshagen, Chet Anderson, Kimberly Beal, Nancy Frederick Conrad, Susan Giddings, Gaines L. Godfrey, Jan A. Goldman, Judy Hayes, Anthony Holmquist, Joanie Bauer Hupp, Sonya Johnson, Barbara Tobin Klema, Mary Ellen Long, B. Summer Lynch, Andrea Martens, Maureen May, June McCartney, Alexis McLean, Maryellen Morrow, Mary Anne Nelson, Meredith Nemirov, Linda Pampinella, Susan Reed, Nancy Richmond, MariKay Shellman, Ann Smith, Stephanie Mae Smith, Jenny Treanor and Susan Wise.

The first exhibits of 2012 will be “Abstract Views” in the Barbara Conrad Gallery and “Confined” in the upstairs Art Library. Both exhibits will open with a Jan. 6 public reception.

“Abstract Views” will feature 29 local artists using a variety of media to express abstract art. The exhibit, which will run through Jan. 28, also will feature a film series with weekly Wednesday screenings of documentaries about Pablo Picasso, Joan Mitchell, Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol. Admission is by donation.

“Confined” will remain on display through February. The exhibit is a personal showcase for the mixed-media works of Andrea Martens; using a combination of materials and processes, Martens investigates issues of open space and confinement as well as physical and psychological space. She is interested in the human/animal relationship as well as its connection to the environment in contemporary industrial society.

Also in January, the Arts Center will offer classes for adults and teens in pastel painting, beginning block printing, beginning and intermediate acrylic painting and drawing, and the Wednesday Portrait Group. Also for adults is the Tuesday figure drawing class. A tween drawing class will be offered for ages 9-11 and Fabulous Fridays for ages 5-9.

Saturday workshops include mixed-media collage with Nancy Harris (Jan. 7, 14 and 21) and monoprinted fabric and hand-stitching with Ilze Aviks (Jan. 28-29; registration deadline is Jan. 10).

Durango Herald Staff Report

Article Last Updated: Thursday, December 29, 2011 5:25pm

Winter Solstice Market

2011-11-20T05:51:00.000-08:00

My display at this year's holiday artisan market
at the Durango Art Center.

a card from Mom

2011-11-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

Mom recently presented Alex and me with this touching card, hand-made at her adult day care center, Our Place at Grandview. It feels good to be appreciated.

paint

2011-11-09T07:29:00.000-08:00

I've been taking a beginning acrylic painting class for the past few weeks. So far, it has been quite humbling, as I've discovered just how difficult it is to master the medium. I have so much to learn about handling the brush and paint, as well as mixing color. There are so many techniques and approaches that it is almost overwhelming. While most of what I've produced so far has been less than satisfying, I feel that the small (6" x 6") painting above displays an interesting use of color, composition, and energy. It's a start, at least.

Painting has an immediacy and seeming permanence that is not quite the same in collage. With painting, a single brushstroke seems so final (although it isn't really -- one can easily paint over it), whereas collage allows for a different kind of planning in that papers and other objects can be placed and moved around before being adhered. Perhaps it's because I have had so much more experience with collage, but it just doesn't scare me as much as paint does. One of my goals for this class is to confront and move past that fear. Practice and experimentation are the only means, so on I trudge.

art cards of the day

2011-11-08T07:20:00.000-08:00

November snow

2011-11-07T06:39:00.000-08:00

begin again

2011-10-23T07:15:00.000-07:00

Seize hold of the moment that is before you
and begin again
your journey to the inner universe.
Right now, wherever you are on the path,
however many times you have faltered,
begin again.

There is such joy
in beginning the day anew.
Just as your breath travels in and out
over and over again,
tirelessly, in the same way,
if you feel you have faltered on the path,
begin once again.

-- Gurumayi Chidvilasanda

durango open studios

2011-10-16T07:52:00.000-07:00

Every fall, a number of artists in the Durango area open their studios to the public. Yesterday, my friend Mary Kay & I visited five of them.

Mary Kay and another friend, Sue, stand amidst Nick Blaisdell's pottery.

One of Nick Blaisdell's intricately-patterned plates.

Nick Blaisdell demonstrates how to attach a handle to a pitcher.

One of Maryellen Morrow's gorgeous abstracts.

"White Out," another of Maryellen's paintings, which I hope to include in my upcoming show at DAC, Abstract Views.

A painting in progress in Maryellen's studio.

Some of Heesoo Lee's decorated vases.

Sandra Butler often uses rawhide in her sculptures, as seen in her vessel above.

Mary Kay and Sandra discuss one of her fantastical sculptures.

Susan Cardin demonstrates her unique use of found objects above.

art cards of the day

2011-10-08T01:25:00.000-07:00

first snow

2011-10-07T06:21:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's snow storm.

Today's view.

DAC

2011-10-04T14:05:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday morning you'll find me volunteering in the information booth at the Durango Arts Center. My tasks? I answer the phone, greet visitors, answer questions about DAC, sell tickets to shows and events, stuff envelopes, and generally do whatever "projects" the staff hands me. I like it. It keeps me busy and involved with the arts. Plus, the people are super nice and they really appreciate my efforts.

Mary is the Gallery Director and manager of the gift store (where I have some prints, below). I've been working with her on Abstract Views, the show I'm co-curating in January.

Jeannie is the Volunteer Coordinator (among other duties). She's a hoot to work with, and things never get boring with her around.

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

I have four prints for sale in the gift store, and am hoping to see them sell soon!

proclamation

2011-10-03T13:46:00.000-07:00

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 03, 2011

Presidential Proclamation -- National Arts and Humanities Month, 2011

NATIONAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES MONTH, 2011

- - - - - - -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Norman Rockwell's magazine covers are classic and recognizable portrayals of American life. A longtime advocate of tolerance, Rockwell was criticized by some for a painting now hanging steps from the Oval Office -- The Problem We All Live With. Inspired by the story of Ruby Bridges, this painting depicts a young girl being escorted to her newly-integrated school by United States Marshals. Today, the portrait remains a symbol of our Nation's struggle for racial equality.

Like Rockwell's painting, art in all its forms often challenges us to consider new perspectives and to rethink how we see the world. This image still moves us with its simple poignancy, capturing a moment in American history that changed us forever. This is the power of the arts and humanities -- they speak to our condition and affirm our desire for something more and something better. Great works of literature, theater, dance, fine art, and music reach us through a universal language that unites us regardless of background, gender, race, or creed.

Millions of Americans earn a living in the arts and humanities, and the non-profit and for-profit arts industries are important parts of both our cultural heritage and our economy. The First Lady and I have been proud to honor this work by displaying American art at the White House and by hosting music, dance, poetry, and film performances and screenings. The President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, along with the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services continues to recognize the skill and creativity of American artists, historians, and philosophers while helping educate and inspire our children through the power of the arts and humanities.

We must recognize the contributions of the arts and humanities not only by supporting the artists of today, but also by giving opportunities to the creative thinkers of tomorrow. Educators across our country are opening young minds, fostering innovation, and developing imaginations through arts education. Through their work, they are empowering our Nation's students with the ability to meet the challenges of a global marketplace. It is a well-rounded education for our children that will fuel our efforts to lead in a new economy where critical and creative thinking will be the keys to success.

Today, the arts and humanities continue to break social and political barriers. Throughout our history, American hopes and aspirations have been captured in the arts, from the songs of enslaved Americans yearning for freedom to the films that grace our screens today. This month, we celebrate the enlightenment and insight we have gained from the arts and humanities, and we recommit to supporting expression that challenges our assumptions, sparks our curiosity, and continues to drive us toward a more perfect union.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2011 as National Arts and Humanities Month. I call upon the people of the United States to join together in observing this month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs to celebrate the arts and the humanities in America.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA

more autumn colors

2011-09-30T00:48:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-09-29T06:40:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-09-28T06:42:00.000-07:00

early autumn along the Animas

2011-09-27T01:00:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-09-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

Gram

2011-09-25T15:06:00.000-07:00

open call

2011-09-19T12:17:00.000-07:00

I am co-curating an exhibition on abstract art at the Durango Arts Center this coming January 2012. The show is called Abstract Views, and my fellow curator is Joan Russell, a talented artist here in Durango. The call for entries has been posted on DAC's website! Here it is:

Call for Artists!

ABSTRACT VIEWS: January 4 – 28, 2012

The Durango Arts Center invites artists to submit works of original abstract art for its upcoming exhibition, Abstract Views, in January 2012. Submissions are limited to original works of abstract art, which may not have been displayed previously at DAC. All media will be considered. Please click here for entry form and further information.

on the job

2011-09-12T06:41:00.000-07:00

Alex stands in front of one of the many solar panel modules he's helped to install this summer, working with Solar Today & Tomorrow. Here's what they say about Alex on their website:

Alex is Solar Today and Tomorrow's lead installer. He is from Santa Barbara, Ca., where he worked in the medical electronics industry. Alex moved to Durango to attend the San Juan Community College's Renewable Energy program from which he graduated this spring. Alex is looking forward to a long and rewarding career in the solar industry and we at Solar Today and Tomorrow are pleased to have him on board.

Coming soon: the website for Alex's new business, Go West Solar.

installed

2011-08-20T08:03:00.000-07:00

It's up! It took 72 nails, 300 binder clips, 100 feet of wire, and 5 hours of labor, but it's up!

Here's my artist statement, which accompanies the installation:

I liken my art making to solving a puzzle: each piece I create challenges me to work out the “right” arrangement of materials, color, texture, and composition. Finding a combination that satisfies me is often quite a puzzling endeavor, but one which always offers the occasion to stretch my imagination.

What I love about collage is the opportunity to work with both traditional and non-traditional media. I enjoy experimenting with various elements, including paper and paint, as well as found objects, such as tea bags, bottle caps and rusty hardware. It thrills me to discover the beauty in a broken piece of plastic, for example, and by incorporating it in a collage, transform trash into art.

While I work with various-sized collages, I have been enchanted with the format of the Artist’s Trading Card or A.C.E.O. (Art Card Editions and Originals). Measuring precisely 3 ½ x 2 ½ inches, this size provides a very intimate form of visual interaction between the viewer and myself.

This installation of three hundred art cards plays with proportion, combining the intimacy of each individual piece with the format of a large-scale grid. The effect is meant to strike viewers from a distance, while simultaneously drawing them in to explore each unique collage.

I believe that art is a collaborative endeavor between artist and viewer; “meaning” is created by the interaction of the work of art and the one observing it. This particular installation is especially interactive, as viewers are invited to remove pieces that they purchase, leaving gaps in the rows. In this way, viewers participate in the art process by changing the layout of the grid during the course of the evening.

Originally hailing from California, Nancy now resides in Durango, where she is encouraged and inspired by its vibrant arts community.

in the paper today...

2011-08-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

Click here for today's article in the Durango Herald about my group show at Studio & tomorrow!

art cards of the day

2011-08-19T00:32:00.000-07:00

These 10 art cards are the last ones needed to reach my original goal of 300 for my installation tomorrow!

art cards of the day

2011-08-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-17T07:24:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-15T02:50:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-14T01:20:00.000-07:00

fifteen

2011-08-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a friend's suggestion, I've found a new fantasy author. New to me at least. I have finished the first book in a series of FIFTEEN by Robert Jordan, and have already started the second. The fifteenth has yet to be published (early 2012, hence no image), but I have thirteen others to keep me occupied, at least for a few more months. It's very satisfying to start a series that has almost completely been published already because I don't have to wait between each new release, nor do I have to buy the books as they are all held by my local library. Sweet!

art cards of the day

2011-08-12T01:11:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

art card update

2011-08-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

As of today, I have a collection of 359 art cards, surpassing my goal of 300 cards for my installation at Studio & next Saturday. (Show announcement here.) Nevertheless, many of those 359 cards are not what I would consider worthy of display. The difficult task is to cull those I don't think pass muster. I'm finding it extremely hard to make that assessment, as the more I look at my collection, the less I like my work. My own hyper-vigilant internal critic hijacks any objective perspective, making the culling process quite challenging. At the same time, I am fearful that my ideal amount of cards for my show (300), is unrealistic and will potentially sacrifice quality for quantity. So I find myself caught between my lack of confidence and my motivation to create a powerful installation. Ultimately, I hope to achieve both quality and quantity, and I have only ten days to do so. Wish me luck.

art cards of the day

2011-08-09T07:36:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-08T07:34:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-07T07:29:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-04T04:38:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-03T04:35:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-02T01:41:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-08-01T01:32:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-07-31T01:30:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-07-30T01:27:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-07-29T13:24:00.001-07:00

art with Elizabeth

2011-07-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

After a few days of going places and doing things, Elizabeth and I decided to stay home Monday and make art. We set up an art station in the dining room and spent the day creating. We both enjoyed the process of making art in the company of a good friend, mostly in silence.

Elizabeth with one of her favorite creations.

Her beautiful collage up close.

More of Elizabeth's pieces.

Me, holding up one of about 10 art cards I made during the day.

Some of my collages. (To be posted individually, soon.)

Mesa Verde with Elizabeth

2011-07-25T07:46:00.000-07:00

This spectacular National Park is one of my favorite places to share with visitors. Elizabeth and I made the trek on Monday, and it was well worth it, if a bit hot. (Above is Cliff Palace, the largest and most well-known cliff dwelling ruin at Mesa Verde.)

Elizabeth explores Spruce Tree House.

Nancy, playing tourist.

Elizabeth photographs me photographing her.

satsang for Elizabeth

2011-07-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, Elizabeth, Mom, Suchita, and I attended a satsang, hosted by Radha and Krishna, as a way to welcome Elizabeth to Durango and allow her to meet some of the people in the Siddha Yoga community here.
[Satsang: (lit., the company of the Truth) The company of saints and devotees; a gathering of seekers for the purpose of chanting, meditation, and listening to scriptural teachings or readings.]

We chanted the Guru Gita, then gathered for a delicious pot luck brunch.
[Guru Gita: (lit., song of the Guru) A sacred text consisting of mantras that describe the nature of the Guru, the Guru-disciple relationship, and techniques of meditation on the Guru. In Siddha Yoga ashrams, the Guru Gita is chanted every morning.]

It was a most lovely and welcoming experience. We all went home feeling quite peaceful.

Krishna, Nancy, Peggy, Suchita, Radha

Nancy, Elizabeth, Suchita, Krishna

Krishna & Radha

Radha, Suchita, Nancy, Krishna

Elizabeth & Nancy

Elizabeth visits Durango

2011-07-23T07:33:00.000-07:00

It has been such a pleasure to host my dear friend, Elizabeth, from Santa Barbara. We explored downtown Durango together, visited the Durango Arts Center, dined at local restaurants, and generally had a marvelous time together, catching up and laughing lots.

Elizabeth and I share a meal at Steamworks.

Mom, Alex, me, and Elizabeth at Cyprus Cafe.

Mom enjoys the beautiful heart ornament given to her by the ever generous Elizabeth.

on display

2011-07-21T04:42:00.000-07:00

more modeling

2011-07-20T16:37:00.001-07:00

Today I modeled for an extended session (6 hours!). This allowed the painters to do a larger and more finished portrait.

2011-07-19T01:41:00.001-07:00

2011-07-18T10:17:00.000-07:00

REID
HARRIS
CARTER
BACHMANN
WHITEHEAD
MEROLANNE

Saturday, August 20
5-9pm

& and Serving Life Chiropractic

Join us for this very exciting line up of wonderful artists. We have been looking forward to this evening for over 6 months. We sent a call to artists out in the spring and we got so many great applications. This is the cream of the crop. 6 very talented, very different artists. 1 night. So much great work! Mark this on your calendar now, it is sure to be the show of the summer.

We will once again be teaming with Serving Life Chiropractic to host this great event. If you attended last years show you know what a fun evening this is.

Stay tuned for much more information on this show.

Boulder reunion

2011-07-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we made a trek to Boulder to visit my niece and her husband while they were there for a wedding. It was a great opportunity for us all to catch up and spend some quality time together. So glad we made the effort -- it was totally worth it! Plus we had a bit of time to check out Boulder. (And I got to see HP 7 Part II!)

At dinner on Friday: Sean, Nicole, Alex, Nancy, Peggy

Nancy, Peggy, Nicole, Sean

Nicole & Sean. Such a sweet couple!

After breakfast, saying our goodbyes: Nicole, Sean, Peggy

Pearl St., Boulder, CO

2011-07-16T10:39:00.000-07:00

2011-07-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

Cannon Beach excursion

2011-07-11T13:02:00.000-07:00

My weekend in Portland was topped off with a day trip to Cannon Beach with Heather. Despite the rainy weather, I really enjoyed the food, shops, and scenery. But best of all was spending time with my dear friend.

Portland, with friends

2011-07-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

It was a great pleasure to spend quality time with some of my very closest friends while in Portland this past weekend.

Here I am with Janet.

Janet enjoying the street fair we attended.

Melissa and her new treasure.

Janet & Melissa.

Me and my talisman.

new large collage

2011-07-06T02:22:00.000-07:00

paper, mesh, coffee filters, burnt newspaper, wire
10" x 10"

art cards of the day

2011-07-05T01:45:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-07-04T01:43:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-07-03T08:40:00.001-07:00

giant moth

2011-07-02T01:16:00.000-07:00

We found this beautiful giant moth, with a wingspan of about 4 1/2 inches, right outside our garage door.

garage cats

2011-07-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

Apart from the camera-induced glowing eyes, this is what our outdoor kitties look like:

Foxy -- the mama

Pumpkin -- Foxy's adolescent kitten

fixed

2011-06-29T05:27:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, we have two house cats, Ebony & Kitter. Sweet loves, both! And spayed long ago.

But we also "inherited" a number of outdoor cats who were already here when we moved in. Well, as feral cats are bound to do, the mama cat, Foxy, soon had kittens, one of whom, Pumpkin, had kittens of her own. So one turned into six, with the addition of at least two tomcats who were clearly the fathers.

We had been meaning to get them fixed since we arrived, but for various reasons (namely, how the heck do you catch feral cats?!), it didn't happen, and the brood expanded.

However, we recently found a woman whose mission it is to catch and fix feral cats. So she came with multiple cat traps on Monday, and by Tuesday had caught a total of seven cats -- the two mamas, their four kittens, and one of the tomcats. On Tuesday the vet fixed the two mamas and the papa, all three of whom will be returned today. The kittens will be placed in homes, once they're old enough to be fixed. We will have our favorite mamas back, a neutered male we haven't named, and no chance of more kittens. Yay!

Although they're all a bit elusive, and no doubt camera shy, I'll do my best to get photos of them and post them here soon.

art cards of the day

2011-06-26T04:30:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-25T04:27:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-24T01:14:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-23T01:11:00.000-07:00

announcement

2011-06-22T09:55:00.000-07:00

Here's the announcement for the August show I'll be part of at Studio &.

art cards of the day

2011-06-21T02:58:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-20T02:54:00.000-07:00

new bowls

2011-06-19T01:18:00.000-07:00

work site photos

2011-06-18T01:30:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday I announced Alex's acquisition of a new job in the solar field. (Alex's new gig.) Here are some promised photos of him and his boss on site at a residential installation in Mancos. CO.

art cards of the day

2011-06-17T01:05:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-16T01:02:00.000-07:00

Alex's new gig

2011-06-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hooray for Alex's new job, assisting the owner of a local solar installation company, Solar Today & Tomorrow! Physically demanding as heck, but exactly the experience he needs to eventually start his own company and take the industry-wide certification exam, the NABCEP (National American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners).

Photos of Alex at work to follow as soon as I can get him to remember to bring the camera to work with him!

art cards of the day

2011-06-14T02:24:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-13T02:19:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-12T02:15:00.000-07:00

river walk

2011-06-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

Mom and I took advantage of this beautiful day to picnic and walk along the river front. We found a shady bench near the water to eat our lunch and watch the river flow by. Despite the muddy water, we saw numerous rafters zipping along with the current. Our post-picnic stroll was a great way to get a little sun and fresh air. We LOVE the summer here!

summer living

2011-06-10T04:00:00.000-07:00

meeting criteria

2011-06-09T01:55:00.000-07:00

As I proudly reported in a previous post, my collage to the left was one of 60 artworks (culled from a total of 190 submissions) selected for the 35th Annual Juried Exhibit at the Durango Arts Center this month.

Since making this announcement, I've been able to get my hands on the juror's statement about his criterion for selecting pieces to be included in the show. The juror, Chad Colby, Associate Professor of Art at Fort Lewis College, explained that the process was both "intimidating and inspiring," and "not an easy task." He further described the key elements that informed his decisions about what to choose for the exhibition. I feel honored that I "qualified" for these criteria:

creativity- even if the subject matter is familiar, how original is the presentation?

technical refinement- notable skill with a chosen media, as well as a gallery-ready presentation.

play- something about the piece shows an artistic "spirit". This is the hardest category to quantify, and it transcends the mastering of skills. Artists should think of play as a serious undertaking that enables the freedom to discover new forms. This may seem like a contradictory notion- serious play- but it is the modus operandi of most artists I've known.

diversity- a final criteria; I tried to select a show that has variety both in form and content.

art cards of the day

2011-06-08T02:53:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-07T02:51:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-06-06T14:34:00.000-07:00

folk & bluegrass

2011-06-05T08:22:00.001-07:00

Mom, Alex, and I have been here in Colorado long enough to attend a second year of the annual Pagosa Folk 'N Bluegrass Festival. It was awesome! I've really become a Folk and Bluegrass fan and can't wait until the Pagosa Folk Festival in September.

This was the line-up:

Finnders & Youngberg

Spring Creek

Milk Drive

Joy Kills Sorrow (perhaps my favorite, although the competition was stiff)

Warren Hood and the Goods

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Alex, Mom, and I enjoying the show:

Animas River Cafe

2011-06-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

Back at our favorite riverfront cafe, open only during the summer months. We love to watch the rafters float by and take in the warm summer breezes.

juried in

2011-06-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that my collage above has been selected to hang in the 35th Annual Juried Exhibit at the Durango Arts Center this month. It's a great honor because 1) mine was one of only 60 pieces selected out of 190 entries, and 2) the jury process was "blind," meaning that the juror, Chad Colb y, didn't know which pieces belonged to which artists, thus his decisions were based on merit alone.

I must admit, however, to a strange kind of "survivors' guilt," given how many of my fellow artists -- many of whom are extremely talented -- were rejected from the show. Up pops the he-must-have-made-a-mistake-to-have-selected-my-work self talk. It is true, what they say, that success has its dark side.

modeling II

2011-05-30T07:46:00.000-07:00

This past week I modeled for the second time for the painting class at DAC. (The first time I modeled I was so pleased with one of the painter's portraits of me, I bought it!)

Ordinarily, I would be paid $12 an hour, but I arranged to receive credit toward art classes at DAC instead. So far, I've earned $72 worth of credit. Not a bad way to pay for some otherwise costly classes.

By the way, the painters claimed that I am such a good model (because I can sit still so well -- NOT because I am some stunning beauty, no doubt!) that I received a $6 tip! Woo Hoo!

The painting I bought was created by Peter Campbell, whose current rendition is below:

While Peter's portrait was perhaps more flattering, Vicki's painting was convincing as well, except that I don't think my neck is as long as the one she gave me:

sidewalk vendor day

2011-05-29T08:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I set out my collages in front of the Durango Arts Center, along with three other vendors, hoping to make some sales off the Memorial Day foot traffic downtown. I wouldn't call it a success -- all I was left with at the end of the day was $43 and a seriously nasty sunburn. The day was a lesson in humility and surrender. But let me tell you, it's not easy putting your work out there for all to see, and end up with only two sales. Albeit, I received many compliments, and that made me feel good. However, I couldn't help feeling a bit like a failure as an artist.

So, I just keep reminding myself that I'm not a professional artist -- I do it because I love it, not to make money. And I console myself, too, with the fact that I have been selected to show my art cards at Studio & in August. In the meantime...onward with my creations!

art cards of the day

2011-05-28T01:18:00.000-07:00

I've been on a roll. The fact that I now post multiple art cards and other collages on an almost daily basis attests to my productivity. I finally overcame that months-long artist block.

Here is my most recent Passion tea & abalone shell series.

bird watching

2011-05-27T07:02:00.000-07:00

art cards of the day

2011-05-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

mini collages derived from collagraphic prints

collagraphs

2011-05-25T02:43:00.000-07:00

The following prints (collagraphs) were made by a collagraphic plate I made a few years ago. I've been meaning to make more prints from it and finally gave myself the time to do so Saturday. I'm very pleased with the results.

This is the original design on which I based my collagraphic plate.

This is the well-used plate itself. The original design is raised on the mat board, creating, in a sense, a giant stamp. Specifically, it measures 5" x 5".

______________________

Below are some of the results of applying different and overlapping colors to the collagraphic plate and transferring to a piece of mat board:

new order

2011-05-24T01:38:00.000-07:00

Given the small size of my art "studio," and the large amount of materials and supplies needed for my collage-making, I am constantly reorganizing my area to maximize the space and increase the accessibility of my stuff. I recently undertook a complete overhaul of the papers and 3D objects that I use regularly. I sorted and filed all the various paper materials (maps, coffee filters, commercial paper, handmade paper, music sheets, and so on) into legal size hanging files in large plastic bins. It is SO much easier to find what I'm looking for now!

Two sturdy hardware organizers from Home Depot were the perfect solution for creating order and visibility for my numerous objects (bottle caps, pieces of plastic, ribbon, buttons, rocks, shells, etc.), which now are sorted and labeled according to type. The organizer and the artist in me are both thrilled with this new order. I love it!

Three Blue Penguins

elk

trade

the winners

yet more press

Viewing the abstract

DAC’s latest show explores the ‘unconscious’ side of art

Abstract Views

more press

Do you see what I see?

‘Abstract Views’ provides look into minds of artists at Durango Arts Center

collage workshop at DAC

January at DAC

Winter Solstice Market

a card from Mom

paint

art cards of the day

November snow

begin again

durango open studios

art cards of the day

first snow

DAC

proclamation

Presidential Proclamation -- National Arts and Humanities Month, 2011

more autumn colors

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

early autumn along the Animas

art cards of the day

Gram

open call

Call for Artists!

ABSTRACT VIEWS: January 4 – 28, 2012

on the job

installed

in the paper today...

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

fifteen

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art card update

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art with Elizabeth

Mesa Verde with Elizabeth

satsang for Elizabeth

Elizabeth visits Durango

on display

more modeling

Boulder reunion

Pearl St., Boulder, CO

Cannon Beach excursion

Portland, with friends

new large collage

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

giant moth

garage cats

fixed

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

art cards of the day

announcement

art cards of the day