Iconic

Finished this piece today. The mat dimensions are 8" x 10". I have not settled on a name for it yet; but wanted to post it because I'm excited about it.

 

Mixed feelings

On April 1st, I posted photos (and narrative) of "The Sacredness of Comfort and Care", stating that it was one of my favorite collages I have made. That is probably one of the reasons that I am now experiencing mixed feelings about its sale at the Cooperstown Art Association Gallery. I mean, I'm very happy that someone liked the piece enough to buy it: But perhaps I was not ready to "let it go". I like it too... a lot. I also have been focused on generating high-quality pieces for my upcoming two-person exhibit at The Other Side (Utica, NY), and thought that "The Sacredness..." piece would be an impressive centerpiece for that show. The last time I had a solo show there, I sold 14 pieces. I want to have a strong follow-up to that exhibit. I assume that I could perhaps borrow the piece from the new owner for that exhibit: But I am also cognizant of the fact that having a "NFS" piece means potentially less commission for the gallery (and I like to support galleries, as well). So, I can sincerely say that I am happy for the sale, and I assume that it will bring joy to the new owner. But I do have mixed feelings about it.

Another find; another kind

After finishing d.h.k., I decided to experiment a little with some elements that were laying around the studio. I decided to try some arrangements that are a bit different for me (but still in my "voice"?). These were different enough, that I thought they were worth posting. Not sure if something like these will become a finished composition, but interesting nonetheless. I have also included in this post, a beautiful red cover of a 1937 publication about contract bridge (another example of something I forgot I even had).

d.h.k. -- a new piece

Okay, so here's a piece I created (in record time?) from the classroom botanical poster/map. I'm very excited about the colors! And I had a frame in the studio that I think matches the color scheme well. The piece is 11" x 14"; but with the frame included, it's a bit larger than what I usually do (and I'm happy about it). I entitled it, "d.h.k. -- Unsung Hero of the Modern Botanical Era". BUT, the letters aren't meant to be anyone's initials -- they are just labels for the cells. And the female sculptural element is unrelated to "the modern botanical era" (whatever that means). So the title is whimsical, and invites the viewer to try to figure out who d.h.k. is. So in my mind, the title becomes an integral component of the collage.

Found treasure

 Last night in the studio, I "came across" this gem. It's a beat-up old science classroom "poster" (map-like) made with kind of a paper-canvas material. To tell you the truth, I barely remember purchasing it (probably at the Farmersville auction). I was SO excited to have found this! I started experimenting right away (so much fun!). I have been wanting to try to create some collages that are a little bigger, so this is a perfect source. I have my hand included in one of the photos, to show the scale.

I love the muted color palette! I don't know what will come from this source for elements... but I'm excited to start exploring/experimenting. Here are some starters (all rough right now)...

Cooperstown (NY) Art Association

Had a wonderful time at the 35th Annual Regional Art Exhibit in Cooperstown, last night. I was so excited that I got accepted into this show, along with my friend and fellow artist, Tom Nettle; and my sister-in-law and fellow artist, Donna Durr. They accepted 66 pieces of the 176 that were submitted. And Tom won a Juror's Citation Award, too! The show was particularly strong, in my opinion... and well-attended. It's nice when there is some external recognition for all the time we spend creating in the studio.

Award winner, Tom Nettle

Cut paper collage entitled "Vivian", by Donna Durr

Award winner, Mary Helen Epps, with her piece, entitled "Contemplation"

 

creative distractions

 Well... I had intended to work on finishing the "paired" project last night; but I got distracted by some elements that were laying around the tables in the studio. Not sure if anything will come of this rudimentary start. But I am digging the way this looks (a bit of surreal; a bit of Warhol)...