Raw Beginnings

38"x38" paper and beginning markings similar to a particular butterfly in and around Australia 'euthalia cyanipardus'. The idea of Wings of Grace have come into my writing and my handy thesaurus speaks of divine influence, benediction and a quote by William Hazlitt, "The outward expression of the inward harmony of the soul" With all this and some meditation, writing and studio time, I have begun here with this raw start. I've added texture to some parts to help the pastels grab and I've also started with a grid...so here's to beginnings.

On a household note: Our water heater went out and because of improper installation, the water leaked into the master bath...yuuck! I have spent the weekend with fans trying to dry the floor. The plumber replaced the old one on Saturday so wet floor or not, we got our showers and ran the dishwasher. Couldn't help think how spoiled we all are and how awful and primitive conditions are in Haiti!

I have re-installed the notification approval on the comments page. With all the Hackers out...it seems like one way of taking precautions. I so easily forget that this is a vast network...rather than a small circle of artists. I know it can be an inconvenience but please don't let it discourage you from leaving a few words...I so like this process of sharing who we all are as we live our creative lives.

"Love the Baabee"

"Mercy" 38"x38" paper (unknown type or weight) paper collage, fabric collage, acrylic and soft pastel. There was an old episode of "Seinfeld" about seeing someones loved baby that was not such a pretty baby...it was hilarious! I feel like the parent (artist) who has labored and brought this loved not so pretty baby into this world! ha I re-learned so much about these materials. The paper and soft pastel were a gift from my friend Josie's studio. I have been using these materials in this project as an act of memory to Josie as she passed away a couple of years ago. Using the paper without a lot of 'tooth' along with very soft powdery pastels has been a challenge...!I will take what I've learned to the next piece that I've already begun. I even changed the background color of the site in order to better enhance the piece....just loving the baby! ha

Got Me a New Pair of Shoes!

'Just Do It' as the box suggests, well I did. I have been wearing my almost white Nikes for close to 9 years and this weekend was my moment! ha My old shoes have been good to me... feel like soft pillows but because I stand so much when I am working...it is time to get a little more support. There was a lot to pick from and I was surprised at how much bright silver and color combinations are now in athletic shoes.. This pair has an air cushion heel and the trim is gray patent leather. They feel great and I'm sure I will get the support I need.

Movies this week: 'Crazy Heart' and Netflix choice is an oldie "Brazil" with Robert De Niro. We are watching it as a way of a refresher into the same creator of "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus in which Tom Waits plays the Devil....what fun! With an occasional sprinkling of a NBA Warriors Basketball game,
our TV time is booked.

Almost finished with 'Wings'...it has been such a challenge. I think I'll 'chalk' it up to learning, re-learning the elements of soft pastel...no easy trick! ha