Christine Marie Art

Art for the New Year

2012-01-02T10:51:00.000-08:00

Works from the Respite series will be on view at the Cloister Gallery in Marblehead throughout January

Well folks it has been a year of ups and downs. Moving my studio to Porter Mill being one of the best things. Losing my mom being of the worst. Here's hoping 2012 is a year of more ups than downs! And to start the year of on the right foot, I have two openings in just one weekend!

This Friday, January 6 from 6pm - 8pm at Galatea in the South End, my work will be alongside many of my favorite Galatea artists in a grouping of emotive color paintings. First Fridays on SoWa are always a great night out, and with no snow on the horizon, why not make a trip in?
On Sunday, January 8 at 11am, I open my solo exhibit of pieces from my Respite series at the Cloister Gallery in Marblehead, MA. Housed in the beautiful Church of St. Andrew, the Cloister Gallery exhibits many local artists each year

Here is wishing you all a happy, healthy new year! Hope to see you at an exhibit sometime soon. And remember, I have changed my blog to Christine O'Brien Art, where most of my new blog posts have been.
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Moving my site and blog

2011-10-22T12:59:00.000-07:00

I've decided to move my blog and website to Wordpress which seems to suit my needs better. I hope you'll all bookmark the new site and follow me over there! The name is changing slightly to reflect my first and last name, rather than first and middle. It's now Christine O'Brien Art at http://www.christineobrienart.com, and my blog is there as well. I've enjoyed feedback from a lot of you on my blog here and hope to see you on the new site, where I have some exciting news to share about the new year! Hope to hear from you all soon. In the meantime, here's a sneak peek of some new small works I've been working on.

2011-09-19T05:39:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 24, 2011 - 2pm to 6pm followed by a gallery reception

Don't Miss Porter Mill Open Studios! Please join me on Saturday, September 24th to celebrate the official opening of Porter Mill, the North Shore's newest artist studio building! More than twenty-five artists (including me) will be opening the doors of their studios for you to see into their working spaces and enjoy their newest paintings, photographs, jewelry, illustrations, and more.

2:00pm - 6:00pm: Studios are open to the public. Meet with the artists and ask them questions... about their work, snack on snacks and meet fellow art enthusiasts.

6:00pm - 8:00pm: Join us in the first floor gallery for drinks and live music by SWAY while enjoying the inaugural exhibition in the Gallery at Porter Mill.

Check out Studios at Porter Mill for more information!

Hope to see you all there!

Third in a trio of small collage paintings

2011-08-03T05:28:00.000-07:00


Acrylic monoprint and collage painting

Another new small collage painting

2011-08-02T06:36:00.000-07:00

Here is another experimental mix of mark-making, acrylic monoprint and collage painting. I'm enjoying the limited palette.

Happy to be back in the studio

2011-08-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

So it has been some time since I created anything new in the studio. No excuses other than (as you all know by now) my studio location was in transition. So the question was, where did I leave off? Where do I begin now? I didn't really have an answer. But I had to start somewhere, so I just began mark-making, printmaking with acrylics, collaging, etc. Here's one of the first little collage paintings. More to come.

What is this mess?

2011-07-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

Table drippings

What is this ~~awful~~ beautiful mess? It means I am finally in my new studio making messes!! The artists at Studios at Porter Mill are finally moving in and moving on with their work. It's been a bit of a challenge getting the old mill building up to speed, but things are looking great. I've met some wonderful artists so far and hope to meet some more next week (and see their studios) during a formal getting to know you gathering.

Here's a peek at how my studio is shaping up, kind of a before and after. Not totally "after" since it's still a work in progress, but I'm liking how it's coming along. Now it's time to make some art!! It's been too long.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, SHELDON SEEMS COMFY HERE!!

2011-05-09T06:11:00.000-07:00

I am without a studio this month, waiting for my space at the Studios at Porter Mill space to open in June. I can't wait! I just found out that one of the artists whose work I know from my Boston Handmade days, Pressbound, will be opening a letterpress shop on the first floor there. Awesome! Her cards and calendars and little books are amazing.

Anyway, while I am studio-less I thought I would re-vamp my graphic design resume and put it online along with a few portfolio pieces. You never know when someone will ask, right? So if you know anyone who needs some freelance design, direct them to http://christineobriendesign.blogspot.com. I have a very free month to work on things!

Printmaking without a press, with Bonnie Mineo

2011-03-08T19:18:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday I took an inspiring workshop with Bonnie Mineo at Fort Point Studios in Boston. Bonnie is a painter, printmaker and and mixed media artist with a prior career in graphic design (hey, that sounds like me!). This was a "printmaking without a press" class using water-based inks and foam plates to create one-of-a-kind prints. It was fun and informative, and Bonnie is a fantastic instructor.

Before lunch Bonnie explained all of the supplies she uses, and demonstrated her process. Then we spent some time creating a variety of plates...different shapes and textures.

After a delicious lunch at Flour, it was back to the studio to begin creating. I had a tough time with the inks because even though I was using the same colors as the acrylics I use, they didn't mix the same, and the results weren't exactly what I had in mind. But, the process of layering different plates and colors was a lot of fun.

I think there were about 7 or 8 of us. Everyone had their own style and we had a little critique at the end. The prints above are a few of the pieces we had finished at the end of the day.

Of course, when I got back to my studio I wanted to continue with the process, but I didn't have any of the inks we used in class. But I do have Golden Open Acrylics, which I love, and thought would work in a similar way. So I made a few new plates and expanded on what I learned in the workshop. I can see that I'm going to like working with a variety of these prints and making collages with them.

Introducing the Studios at Porter Mill!

2011-03-07T17:26:00.000-08:00

Does anyone recognize the entryway above? It is in the old Redbrick Studio building in Beverly...soon to be dubbed the Studios at Porter Mill in the same space. I am one of the first artists to have signed a lease on studio space in the building. And I am really excited about it!!

Stealing a bit of info from the Studios at Porter Mill facebook page:

Porter Mill was first occupied in 1895 and was associated with Beverly, Massachusetts' rich shoe industry. Through the years the building housed Decoron Plastics, Superior Hat Company, Superior Real Estate, Criterion Shoe Company, Lion Leather and Plastic and recently Porter Sewing Machine Corporation. Now, Porter Mill is home to twenty-two artist studios.

In case you're wondering why I am moving my studio (AGAIN) so soon, it's located nearer to my home, within walking distance of the ocean, with many shops and restaurants nearby. The light in the building is fantastic. Studios range in size from 115 to 375 square feet, with plenty of windows, common areas, an on-site gallery and printmaking facility. I'm really looking forward to being part of an organized creative community. With room for workshops and other programming, the possibilities for gathering and sharing here are wide open.

My particular studio is on the third floor, and while it doesn't look like much now, I have six weeks to plan for redesigning this empty room. Move in date is May 1. Check back in May for Before and After pics!

And just to show how easily excited I am, the shelf here was left in my studio and I get to keep it! Hey, extra storage is always welcome.

Busy Art Weekend Ahead

2011-03-03T06:03:00.000-08:00

So many things happening between now and Sunday! Let's see...

Today I am visiting my future studio in Beverly. I know, I know...I just moved into my current studio, but those of you familiar with the old Redbrick Studio building will understand. As of May 1, I will be a resident artist at the new Studios at Porter Mill. More to come on this in future posts.
Tomorrow is First Friday in SoWa and I'll be popping into Galatea to see vibrant works by fellow Galateans Marsha Nouritza Odabashian and Lieby Miedema. Hopefully it will be warm enough to stroll around to some of the other galleries and studios.
Saturday I'm taking a printmaking workshop with Bonnie Mineo at the Fort Point Studio School.
Most importantly, on Sunday I'll be attending the Boston Globe Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Ceremony with my son Joe, who won FOUR Gold Keys for his portfolios in art and photography, and works in painting, and film. Go Joe!! More to come on this in future posts as well.

See you soon with updates from all of the above!

New Collages

2011-02-18T05:47:00.001-08:00

UPDATE: These pieces are now on my Etsy shop!

A growing collection of collages exploring color and texture in advance of larger pieces.
Sent on the Now Network™ from my Sprint® BlackBerry

Monoprinting, digital printing, and stencils!

2011-02-16T13:37:00.000-08:00

This is one of the pieces I had in Salem Arts' Octopus' Garden exhibit. The colors in the background were done by monoprinting with block printing inks. After it dried I coated it with Golden Digital Ground, and overprinted with a digital collage. I finished it by using handmade stencils to add the flowers. I love how the colors pop! Available on my Etsy Shop!

Two works accepted into LynnArts Annual Mixed Media Exhibit

2011-01-24T10:07:00.000-08:00

The Edge, 24x24

Two of my pieces, The Edge (above) and Pod were accepted into the LynnArts Annual Mixed Media exhibit, which is on display now through February 16, 2011. Stop by the Opening Reception this Saturday, January 29 from 2pm to 4pm to say hello. You won't be disappointed, I had a sneak peek and the show is fabulous. While you're there, check out "Lost and Found," a collection of prints by Linda Germain in the adjacent gallery space.

New Year, Expanded Directions

2011-01-06T07:46:00.000-08:00

8 x 10 acrylic monotype & collage

January always gets me organized & energized for the year to come (so does September) and this year is no different. This past week or so has been filled with:

gathering calls to art for the upcoming year (so many good ones already!)
signing up for printmaking workshops (you are never too old to learn!), and
joining a few more art organizations that interest me

I'm excited about the year to come. Between all of the opportunities for exhibiting, and the challenges of learning new techniques, I think it will be easy to stay artistically motivated.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-22T20:01:00.000-08:00

2010 Christmas Design, Christine Marie Art

Thanks to everyone who visited the galleries, shows and open studios this year. Your support is amazing, and appreciated!! Happy holidays to you and your loved ones. I hope to see you next year!

Holiday art for cherished friends and family

2010-12-07T08:59:00.000-08:00

Just listed this wall art in my etsy shop...part of a little holiday collection...perfect for small spaces! And the best part? 25% OFF through the end of the year with coupon code HOLIDAY25 at checkout.

Love & Laughter : Peace & Joy : Hope & Faith

Holiday Sale on Prints!!

2010-12-02T07:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!! From now through the end of the month I am having a holiday sale of 25% OFF all prints in my Etsy shop. Not only that, but I will be adding new items each day of prints that have never been for sale! So take a peek now and check back often. To redeem the 25% off simply use the coupon code HOLIDAY25 during checkout. Visit http://chrisenc.etsy.com

Something small for Small(er) Works

2010-11-27T12:28:00.000-08:00

Just finished these pieces. They are collages made with acrylic monotypes on rice paper, each measuring 10" x 20" x 2". They will be part of a new exhibit of "Small(er) Works" at Galatea Fine Art throughout December. Opening Reception is Friday December 3 from 6 - 8pm during SoWa's First Friday festivities.

Studios and more studios

2010-11-21T06:49:00.000-08:00

What a great Open Studios yesterday at the Lydia Pinkham Building in Lynn. Above is the space I work in each day, which I finally set up in a way that looks more like it should. I met many of the other artists in the building, chatted with TONS of visitors, and the best thing is, people were out to buy ART! Thanks go out to Seth Albaum, editor of LynnHappens.com, who is determined to promote all that is happening in the arts in our area, and to Corey Jackson of DowntownLynn.com, who was doing the same.

For more studio vignettes (including mine) check out today's "The Altered Page" where Seth Apter has been documenting "The State of the Art" and today's post is on StudioScapes.

5th Annual Lydia Pinkham Open Studios, November 20

2010-11-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

5th Annual Lydia Pinkham Open Studios
Saturday, November 20, 10am - 4pm
Because my studio is in the Lydia Pinkham Building, I can truly say that this is my FIRST Open Studio event. (I've participated in the SoWa Open Studios, but was set up in the outdoor venue). I'd love to have visitors to my studio on the second floor, Suite 211 to see new original artwork and image transfer demonstrations. Then, of course, visit the many other studio artists throughout the building.
271 Western Avenue, Lynn, MA
Hope to see you all there!!
For directions, parking, and more information about this event visit: http://www.lydia-pinkham.com/location.php

One Week Left to See the "Respite" Exhibit -- Meet the Artist!

2010-09-22T06:54:00.000-07:00

My exhibit "Respite: Patterns & Places Real & Imagined" at Galatea Fine Art comes down on September 27, and this weekend is a GREAT time to come to the South End and see it. I will be at the gallery on Saturday, September 25 from noon until 6pm and would be happy to discuss the work and techniques.

In addition to the great weather predicted for the weekend, and me being at the gallery, there's another excellent reason to make the trip to SoWa...it's Open Studios Weekend. No doubt it will be a hopping weekend in the South End. Hope to see you there!

A small selection of the pieces in the Respite collection at Galatea Fine Art

2010-09-12T15:52:00.000-07:00

These and other digital mixed media pieces I've designed are on display at Galatea Fine Art in Boston's South End through September 27, 2010.

Respite: Patterns & Places, Real & Imagined

2010-07-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

Yes it's summer and while vacation is foremost in my mind, I have also been hard at work preparing for my first solo show, coming up in September at Galatea Fine Art. The name "Respite: Patterns & Places, Real & Imagined" stems from feeling that everywhere I look, there are signs, directions, calls for action. Buy this, write your senator about that. Join our cause. Save the gulf (OK, this I happen to agree with). It's overwhelming. So when I create, I want to make art that allows my eyes to follow their own path, to formulate my own thoughts, and find my own meaning. I want to get lost in a visual where I can hear myself think, where there is no specific agenda.

This collection of digital mixed media has at its core digital photography, which I shot in places as varied as the White Mountains of New Hampshire, and the streets of New York City (yes, those vacation places are always foremost in my mind!). Inspired by nature, even in the city, I've layered many of these images together in Photoshop until a new composition is derived. Rather than a literal replication, I've tried to create a memory of the patterns, colors and senses I felt during the visit. The hybrid artworks incorporate this digital imagery and photography with acrylics, collage, and other media through an intuitive process of experimental and alternative printmaking techniques.

The exhibit runs from from September 3 - 27, 2010 at Galatea Fine Art in Boston's South End. An opening reception is scheduled for Friday, September 10 from 6 - 8pm coinciding with the South End First Friday celebration. Hope to see you there!!

From the Studio...a new collage

2010-07-01T07:35:00.000-07:00

NY Stroll

Here is the first piece of art completed in my new studio at the Lydia Pinkham Building in Lynn, MA. After working for years in a studio in my home, it's nice to have more space to spread things out and not be afraid to get dirty!

This is a digital mixed media piece. The background is a heavy mixed media paper lightly textured with gesso, random acrylic washes and mark-making. The foreground is a digital collage, comprised of photos I took in Central Park. It was printed with ultrachrome pigment ink on silk gampi tissue paper, and adhered to the background. The silk gampi allows the background to show through -- with a nice depth to it. I would imagine that multiple layers would be fun to play with!

Experimenting with Printing on Mica

2010-06-29T19:31:00.000-07:00

Here it is nearly July 4 and we've enjoyed a beautiful spring. So much so that I've already taken a trip to New Hampshire and Maine, and came back with some sheets of mica that I thought I would try printing on. Of course my printer would never pass a warranty test at this point, but such is the life of experimental digital mixed media. I coated the mica with Golden Digital Ground, ran through the printer (on a carrier sheet), and added the printed mica to a work in progress. See...

Art Walk Weekend, June 5 & 6!

2010-05-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

Hope to see you at either of these two Art Walks on the first weekend in June!

SALEM ARTS WALK, JUNE 5

Enjoy a stroll through beautiful and historic Salem, MA and experience the Salem Arts Festival, a celebration all the arts: painting, photography, sculpture, dance, music, writing, new media, performance, poetry, culinary and more! I will be participating for the JUNE 5 Arts Walk at Urban Elements, one of the many Salem businesses graciously hosting artists for the day.

BEACON HILL ART WALK, JUNE 6

I am also participating in the Beacon Hill Art Walk on JUNE 6 throughout the secret gardens and patios of Beacon Hill. Residents open up their private gardens, alleyways, and courtyards, creating a festive atmosphere with volunteer musicians playing in various gardens throughout the day

SoWa Art Walk Weekend, May 15 & 16

2010-05-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

SoWa Art Walk 2010

I'm feeling a little sad that I won't be participating in the SoWa Open Market this year, but am excited that my co-op gallery Galatea Fine Arts is on the SoWa Art Walk, this weekend May 15 &16. So many galleries, studios and the open market... it should be a fantastic weekend in the South End! I plan on stopping in at Galatea, strolling through the market to visit some Boston Handmade friends, and grabbing a cocktail at one of the neighborhood eateries. Will I see you there??

Central Park, In Essence

2010-05-08T05:38:00.000-07:00

Feeling slightly abstract this morning. This is a combination of three separate collaged and painted papers, digitally collaged with one of the pictures I took in Central Park. To be transferred to a textured panel at some point. I'm thinking of doing a series of these called "In Essence" because although they are not literal references to a place, to me they capture the essence of the moment when I visited.

Garden by the Sea

2010-05-01T15:32:00.000-07:00

You might remember this but in a different configuration...I rearranged the collaged papers into what (to me) looks like a garden by the ocean. Another "different configuration" is the way I'm blogging...I'm sending this from my phone for the first time!
Sent on the Now Network™ from my Sprint® BlackBerry

Remembering Central Park

2010-04-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Digital composition using many of the photos I took in Central Park, combined with one of last year's textured collages.

Scenes from a Pond triptych

2010-04-11T05:59:00.000-07:00

I was gallery sitting yesterday at Galatea Fine Arts and snapped this picture of my "Scenes from a Pond" triptych in the members area. It looked so nice hanging there with all the light streaming in. If you're in the South End, the solo exhibits this month by Philip Gerstein, "About Color" and Elizabeth Hathaway "Between Space" are fantastic - through April 30, 2010.

From the blue acrylic paintings, a digital collage

2010-03-28T08:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a new digital collage that came about from the blue collage paintings that I was doing. By scanning the painting, overlaying some of my photos, and blending in Photoshop, this is the result. I'm planning on preparing some panels and transferring the images using Bonny Lhotka's SuperSauce technique. Will post when they're done!

Crystal on Martha Stewart - The Proposal

2010-03-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

Just had to share this adorable clip of Crystal Hanehan (Vintage by Crystal from my Boston Handmade group) on Martha Stewart yesterday. It was her second time on the show demonstrating her adorable spun cotton creatures, but this time she had a BIG surprise, on LIVE television. Absolutely adorable. Congrats Crystal and Ben.

http://www.marthastewart.com/clip-of-the-day-the-proposal?video_id=0

Going wherever it leads

2010-03-05T10:40:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've posted anything, or created much, to be honest. Maybe it's the winter, but I've felt pretty uninspired lately. A trip somewhere is definitely needed! But in the meantime I decided to do something...anything...just to see where it lead...and like most of what I do, it lead to the patterns, textures and colors of nature. I used paper, tissue, acrylic and prismacolor marker and came up with these bits of abstract collages and paintings which remind me of ocean, forest, roots, topographic maps. I'm enjoying the "play time" and going wherever it leads.

Winter Collage

2010-02-17T09:36:00.000-08:00

OK, I give. Enough of winter in New England.

Mixed Media 2010 at Lynn Arts Gallery

2010-01-28T10:19:00.000-08:00

Mixed Media 2010
February 1 - March 12, 2010
Lynn Arts Gallery, Lynn, MA
Opening Reception: Saturday, February 6, 2010, 2-4 pm

Three of my works entitled "Hidden Spaces" have been accepted into this exhibit, curated by one of my favorite art bloggers, Joanne Mattera of Joanne Mattera Art Blog. She is a visiting lecturer in the 2D Department at the Massachusetts College of Art, and the founder/director of the Conference of Encaustic Painting at Montserrat College of Art, in Beverly, MA.

Voices: Mothers Who Create II

2010-01-23T14:41:00.000-08:00

Just found out I've been juried into the upcoming exhibit "Voices: Mothers Who Create II" at The Little Gallery Under the Stairs in Lynn, MA. Small in size, but big in impact, the gallery has had some impressive exhibits, and I am pleased to be part of this one...doubly pleased that my image is representing the show on the gallery's website! Opening Reception: February 6, 2010. The show runs through April 10.

Maine Moonscape, digital mixed media collage

2010-01-15T06:17:00.000-08:00

This new piece, called "Maine Moonscape" was inspired by the trees, evening sky, and other natural surroundings from one of my annual trips to Maine. Considering the winter we've been having, I'm feeling very nostalgic about a summer trip to the lake right about now!

Anyway, this is a 16x16x2 digital mixed media piece on gessobord. It currently resides in the members gallery at Galatea Fine Art, 460B Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA. Also this month at Galatea there are solo shows by Sean Palmatier "Mutations" {painting}, Alice Shafer & Wilson Hunt Jr. "Color/Form" {painting/photography} January 6 through 30, 2010.

Time to Reflect on...

2010-01-02T06:20:00.000-08:00

What's Next...2010 (I will pronounce it "twenty-ten" as opposed to what I've heard others say "two-thousand and ten" ...that's just too long). So let me have my cup of coffee and think about this.

Are goals in order for this decade? Last year my goals were simple...more studio time (check!), get my work into galleries (check!), and license my work (still on the to-do list).

I am still keeping this simple list, but will work at it more aggressively. I now have a schedule of exhibits to submit work to on a regular basis, more gallery connections to pursue, including my own solo show in September 2010 at Galatea in the South End (check!), and a refined list of art shows to apply to, as opposed to art & craft shows. As for licensing, still a vague concept, but I have friends already doing so whose brains I will begin to pick.

Simple goals really, but lots of tasks to work at one at a time. Starting...NOW!

Boston Handmade Downtown till December 24

2009-12-14T06:24:00.000-08:00

Still time to shop handmade at the Boston Handmade Downtown gallery in Boston's Downtown Crossing! I picked up this great limited edition print from my son's favorite new artist Thirteenth Story. We have lots more than art in the gallery...check out our varied jewelers, artists, clothing designers, and more -- HERE!

But hurry because we're only here till December 24!

Smaller Works at Galatea Fine Art

2009-12-06T17:22:00.000-08:00

Above are three of my digital monoprints on display through the month of December at Galatea Fine Art gallery, in its "Smaller Works" exhibit. Galatea is the latest cooperative artist gallery in Boston's SoWa district.

The gallery is filled with works of contemporary art 16" or less, offered throughout the holiday season on a cash and carry basis. Paintings, photography, collage, assemblage and more grace the walls, along with a variety of prints and art cards perfect for gift-giving.

The Opening Reception for "Smaller Works" was held December 4 on an unusually warm December evening during SoWa's First Fridays when surrounding galleries stay open late, and artists open their studios to visitors. We had quite a crowd and seem to be off to a great start!

The images shown here were taken the day after the opening, when I could actually get a shot of some of the art. In all there are 50 artists participating, among which I have many new favorites.

The Pulse: The State of the Art

2009-12-01T10:46:00.000-08:00

Seth Apter at The Altered Page is at it again. He is publishing the fourth edition of The Pulse -- The State of the Art -- a survey in words and pictures of the online artist community. The Pulse is a collaborative project that aims to introduce you to new artists, help you get to know familiar faces even more, and allow you access into the creative hearts and minds of a very talented crew of individuals.

Although I've read many of the past editions of The Pulse, this time I'm participating! I'll let you know when I've sent my thoughts into Seth...it will be in the next week or so. He is publishing parts of it on a rolling basis. For a sneak peek, visit the The Altered Page every Sunday for "Secret Sunday." Here the secrets of all your favorite artists will be revealed. It could be a technique, a product, a secret source, a little-known website, a hidden shop, an inspiration, just about anything!

Handmade Holiday Shopping

2009-11-12T15:39:00.001-08:00

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T06:07:00.001-07:00

If you are heading into Salem, MA today or tonight it will be one of the warmest Halloween Eve's that I can remember. Personally I will be hosting the 7 twelve year old Dwarves at my house tonight, but Salem will be the place to be if you like a bit of crowded spookiness. Check out the Haunted Happenings daily events for today, and if you're in the mood for some art, check out the SAA Gallery, and don't miss Terror Fantasies. And stay safe.

A Brilliant Walk

2009-10-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

Today was the most beautiful fall day. I finally walked a certain portion of the new Peabody Bike Path and the colors were amazing. There were so many people out enjoying the weather, and the off-the-beaten-path trail that is not what one typically thinks of when they think of Peabody. Views like this always inspire me and work their way into my art somehow. I'm glad that inspiration is now so close at hand!

Announcing Galatea - Boston's Newest Contemporary Cooperative Gallery

2009-10-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to finally announce that I am an inaugural member of Boston’s newest cooperative contemporary art gallery, opening November 4th 2009.

Galatea Fine Arts, located in the SOWA district at 460 B Harrison Ave. Boston MA will open to the public on November 4th 2009, with a a grand opening celebration during SOWA’s ‘first Friday’ on November 6th, 2009, 6 to 8pm.

Galatea is a cooperative gallery promoting and exhibiting works from a variety of artists in and around the Boston area. Membership features 50 carefully selected artists in painting, mixed media sculpture and photography. Artist members are a diverse group of talent in various stages of their careers in art.

The inaugural member’s exhibition will be on view November 4th - 28th. Throughout the year Galatea will feature small and large group shows as well as solo exhibitions. In addition there will be juried exhibitions special events and guest artists.

I hope you'll have time to stop by in November for our first exhibit!

Boston Handmade at SoWa

2009-10-09T07:09:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: Nor'easter (of the rainy, windy type) in Massachusetts. SoWa has been cancelled for today. I'll have to catch up with my BH pals another day.

Don't miss Boston Handmade on October 18th at SoWa. Work created by over 20 members of Boston Handmade, representing a wide variety of mediums, methods and art forms; from contemporary photography and cutting edge jewelry design, to classic children's toys, apparel, art, and modern and home decor.

I'll be there on the 11th (this Sunday) as well.

Goodbye summer

2009-10-04T12:42:00.000-07:00

Where did our short summer go to? Here it is October, the Patriots are on, I have a full-blown head cold, and Joe is visiting art colleges. Time, like the Pats, just keeps on marching ahead.

Mixed Media City Collage

2009-09-29T09:15:00.000-07:00

Just finished this mixed media city piece. The background is abstract acrylic mark making on textured paper, handwritten marks, and a collage of rice paper. I used the new DASS universal precoat to make it ready for overprinting, and once dry, ran it through the Epson 2200 to print the city image.

A Visit from Jonathan Talbot

2009-09-21T17:52:00.001-07:00

Last week some of us on the North Shore of Massachusetts were treated to a visit from collage artist Jonathan Talbot. I have always wanted to take one of his workshops in Warwick, NY, so I was thrilled to hear he would be in Lynnfield (5 minutes from my house!).

I have lots of books about collage, including Talbot's Collage: A New Approach, which describes his technique of collage without liquid adhesives. Although I've practiced the lessons in the book, it's always helpful to see first-hand how things are done, and his demonstration was wonderful.

In addition to the demo, and showing us two of his thousands of completed collages, Talbot regaled us with stories of his early days, his thought process and inspiration, and his reasons for making art, prompting discussion regarding our own artistic endeavors.

It was a two-hour tease into an ocean of knowledge that he is willing to share...so I guess it's time to save up for one of his workshops!

More SoWa Open Studios....

2009-09-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

In addition to being outside at the South End Open Market during Open Studios this weekend, my new piece "Sabbaday Walls" Diptych will be at the new gallery "Galatea" (official opening will be in November) at 460B Harrison Ave, Boston.

digital monoprint and acrylic on claybord
16x24

SoWa Open Studios THIS Weekend

2009-09-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

It's Open Studios weekend again in the South End (Sept. 19 & 20). I will be exhibiting at the Open Market location at 540 Harrison Avenue. Looking forward to a weekend of catching up with some some old friends and making new ones!

Abstract Play

2009-09-11T18:33:00.000-07:00

I started some of these text collages in photoshop a while back. This week I was having trouble jumpstarting my creativity, so I went back to them just to play. I like how they are turning out, and the fact that they came about just by playing, rather than trying to make something perfect.

Historic Interpretation at the Peabody Historical Society

2009-08-12T20:17:00.000-07:00

Historic Interpretation is a unique exhibition of new artworks inspired by historical artifacts in the Peabody Historical Society collection. I chose to interpret a concert bill from when Arthur Fiedler visited Peabody during its Centennial Celebration in 1968 (my parents remember this, but I don't). My interpretation was to celebrate the way music is being made in Peabody today, specifically the students at Accel. School of Music, who were lucky enough to perform at the Hard Rock Boston this past winter. I used several of the photos I took at that event, along with photos taken in Peabody, to create this digital collage, which was transferred to claybord and acrylic. The exhibit runs from August 15 through October 18.

Maine recharges the muse

2009-08-10T19:35:00.000-07:00

Back from a week in Maine and playing with lots of the pictures I took. We hiked our favorite Sabattus Mountain (great views), swam and fished in Moose Pond, entertained our niece and nephews, shopped in Bridgton, and ate way too much. It's a great way to unwind and recharge, and now I'm looking forward to getting back to work.

Disintegration, the Big Reveal!

2009-07-31T18:00:00.001-07:00

During the past winter season, I joined a collaborative effort called Disintegration, spearheaded by Seth Apter of The Altered Page. Little did I know back then what a huge collaboration it would turn out to be. Today, August 1, is the day for the "big reveal" where everyone shows the artwork created by a bundle they placed outside all winter to witness its disintegration. You can see my bundles here and here.

I decided to make a collage using an image of a rose from my Mother's Day bouquet. After the roses had dried a bit, they were still beautiful. I made digital monoprints on japanese washi paper and Arches 88 paper, and paired them with the weathered pages from the disintegration project. Both parts of this art piece seemed destined for each other.

The project itself had over 100 participants. I'm thinking of items I can weather outdoors again this winter and maybe this will become an annual experiment!

Pittsfield Art Show This Weekend

2009-07-16T17:10:00.000-07:00

I'll be exhibiting this weekend (both days) at the 5th Annual Pittsfield Art Show in the Berkshires. I like the Berkshires because there are SO many things to do. I challenge anyone to be bored there. There are tons of outdoor activities...Bash Bish Falls is a beautiful spot for hiking and picture taking. There are tons of galleries and shopping for the less adventurous. And of course Tanglewood. None of which I will see this time because of the show, but I'm sure we'll find a nice spot for dinner. Why not take a weekend trip and come out and see me?

2nd Annual Boston Handmade Marketplace in Union Square

2009-07-09T18:14:00.000-07:00

I'll be exhibiting this weekend with my BH'ers at The Boston Handmade Marketplace. More than 25 artists, artisans, and craftspeople will be showing and selling handmade jewelry, clothing, accessories, housewares, art, photography, toys, and sculpture in Union Square (at the intersection of†Washington, Prospect & Somerville Ave.) on July 11, 2009, 3-7pm, as part of the Somerville Arts Council ArtsUnion series.

The Boston Handmade Marketplace is an outdoor art and craft exhibition featuring work by Massachusetts area artists, craftspeople and artisans associated with the arts group Boston Handmade and Etsy.com: helping†people make a living making things. This exhibition promotes local independent businesses and individuals creating one-of-a-kind and limited edition handmade works in small studio environments, not factories. In addition to the individual exhibitors at the 2009 Boston Handmade marketplace musicians will be performing throughout the day. Performers include Boston bands The Grownup Noise and One Happy Island. There will be also be handcraft demonstrations with Faculty and Staff of The Eliot School of Jamaica Plain, and Members of the Common Cod Fiber Guild of Somerville. Another highlight of the afternoon will be martial arts demonstrations from the Shobu Aikido of Boston.

Alter-a-tions at Experimental Art Gallery & Studio

2009-07-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

My "Evening in Paris" piece is currently part of the Alter-a-tions exhibit at Experimental Art Gallery & Studio on Artists Row in Salem. The exhibit runs throughout July, with an Opening Reception on July 11 (lots happening on the Row that day) which I will have to miss because I'll be at the Boston Handmade show in Somerville (more on that in another post). Anyway, the exhibit asks:

What do you alter to suit your needs?
Do you create work that alters an item for another purpose?
Work that changes perspective? Transformation?
Do you have an Alter Ego?
Think. Change. Modify. Mutate. Vary.

Anyway, the "Evening in Paris" piece (which was also part of Caladan Gallery's "Inner Noise" exhibit) is composed of altered images from my trip to Paris. The people are real, but the situation I have set them in is definitely altered from the reality of that day.

If you happen to be in Salem this July, stop by Experimental...very cool stuff in their gallery!

Ledgewood Summer Arts Fest

2009-07-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

Last week I was invited to be a guest artist at Ledgewood Rehab and Nursing Care as part of their Summer Arts Fest. The residents (and lucky guests!) were treated to a fabulous music performance by We Are America. Those girls can sing! Afterwards I shared some of my art, and had a chance to enjoy the artwork created by Ledgewood residents (see the sampling above). Their work was amazing considering the various physical challenges faced by each artist.

Ledgewood is part of Kindred Healthcare which has facilities all across the country, and where art is a part of their daily activities. They have an annual arts contest where winning poetry and art are compiled in a publication called "Kaleidoscope." Some of the entries are from younger patients, but many are from talented seniors like the ones I recently met. Although the online version is from a few years back, it's worth a look!

Nice to see that art does not have a retirement age!

Beverly Arts Fest

2009-06-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

Some scenes from Saturday's Beverly Arts Fest (including a peek into my booth). It turned out to be a great day...the one day out of what, a month, of rain? Some day soon summer will come back to the Northeast. I met some great people as always, was interviewed by BevCam (Beverly Access TV), and am happy that some Salem Arts friends stopped by!

Arts Fest Beverly, Saturday, June 20

2009-06-17T06:45:00.000-07:00

Boston Handmade at SoWa on June 14

2009-06-06T05:56:00.000-07:00

I'll be exhibiting with more than 25 other members of Boston Handmade at the Sowa Open Market on Sunday, June 14th from 10am til 4pm. We'll be showing and selling handmade jewelry, clothing, accessories, house wares, art, photography, toys, and sculpture. Boston Handmade promotes local independent businesses and individuals creating one-of-a-kind and limited edition handmade works in small studio environments, not factories.

We'll be flanked by a fresh produce market, a new antiques market, loads of other artisans, and live music by The Grownup Noise!

So come down to the South End for brunch and shopping, or take your dog out for a social, and stop by the Boston Handmade row and say hello!

Grungy Roses

2009-06-03T09:40:00.000-07:00

Roses are fun to work with...

Exhibiting at a Senior Arts Festival

2009-05-26T06:57:00.000-07:00

Many times as artists we are asked to participate in student events...curating an exhibit, giving a workshop, making space for an internship. But for the first time, I have been asked to participate in a SENIOR event. In June, a local senior living facility is having an arts festival and I have been asked to exhibit alongside the residents.

As I chatted with the activities director, she explained the challenges that seniors face as they create. From diminishing eyesight to more serious physical disabilities, these seniors continue to push themselves and express themselves through art. I am honored to have been asked to participate in their festival. The tagline for the festival is "We are all flowers, some of us just bloom later than others."

In response to what I have learned about them, I am working on a new series, in which I have photographed roses which, although past their prime, convey beauty, unique textures, depth, hidden bursts of color, a joy and a reflectiveness -- all of which remind me of these seniors.

Stay tuned...I will post again during or shortly after the exhibit so you can see their fantastic work.

SoWa Open Market Opening Weekend!

2009-05-14T06:47:00.001-07:00

I'll be there along with several other Boston Handmade members, and many other fabulous artists and crafters. Come visit!

New Paris Collages

2009-05-07T05:37:00.000-07:00

Continuing on my journey of combining traditional media with digital media, I've combined paper and fabric collages with my image of the Eiffel Tower. These mini 4x4 collages are a combination of vintage postcard graphics on oriental rice paper, dyed organza, and archival ultrachrome inks transferred to the collage. I'm really excited about this technique because it combines collage, textiles, digital graphics, and printmaking...all of which I can't get enough of!

I'll have these pieces and more like it at upcoming shows, the first of which is SoWa Opening Weekened, May 16 & 17. Hope to see you all there!

Disintegration Reveal

2009-05-02T18:28:00.001-07:00

Something funny is sprouting amid the greens!

It's time for the Disintegration reveal! All winter my little bundles have been tucked among some old branches taking all the beating that a New England winter can dish out. What began as the pages of an old playbook are now really weathered, curled, and ripe for use in what will ultimately be a collage...THAT reveal will be in August.

Here are a few more "After" images...

To see how this project all began, check out The Altered Page, where 123 other artists took part in this experiment.

Eiffel Tower - Digital Mixed Media Collage

2009-04-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

Today I made a few collagraph prints on watercolor paper, and then overlaid the silk organza sunprints I made with Wen. They had some interesting textures, but needed a bit more. So I overprinted each version with an image I shot from our Paris trip.

It was so fun, I think I might do it all again tomorrow!

Happy Earth Day

2009-04-22T05:37:00.000-07:00

Another in the Barefoot series, in honor of earth day 2009.

Happy Spring, Finally

2009-04-16T19:30:00.001-07:00

You know it's spring in New England when the neighbors start coming outside and you see everyone for the first time in months. Look at the neighbor who is visiting just outside my window! You can't tell from this picture but he (she?) was chirping up a storm, very loudly, calling to someone. I can't imagine what he was saying. Maybe "HEY, look inside the window at that messy studio!" haha. Anyway, I hope he is back tomorrow, I just love, love, love birds and their songs in the spring.

The REAL artist in the family

2009-04-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

Joe's drawing won first prize in the Composition and Design category of his high school art show (they have an awesome fine art department...some of the work was phenomenal). It's called "Still Smiling." It's kind of creepy, but cool. Proud mom.

Barefoot Series

2009-04-13T18:50:00.000-07:00

Another beach scene from the Barefoot series.

Scenes from a Beach

2009-04-04T18:40:00.002-07:00

This is one of the images I have in "The Green Show." It's part of a larger series of beach scenes which I'll have available at some upcoming shows this summer. They are gelatin transfer prints to acrylic-glazed cradled claybord.

The Green Show: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

2009-04-04T18:40:00.001-07:00

I have two pieces in "The Green Show" at the King Hooper Mansion in Marblehead. The Opening Reception is Sunday, April 5, but I visited the exhibit today because I will be in Rhode Island tomorrow for my brother and his wife's baby shower. The exhibit is displayed in various rooms throughout the mansion, which is home to the Marblehead Arts Association. The pieces are gorgeous, and depict:

NATURE AT ITS BEST conveyed in landscapes and seascapes, pristine vistas of nature
That which is DETRIMENTAL to nature and the environment
and artwork using RECYCLED MATERIALS and FOUND OBJECTS

In Love with Screenprinting

2009-03-30T17:15:00.000-07:00

The problem with trying new things is that they can quickly become addictive and I am certain this will be the case with screenprinting on fabric.

Last weekend I attended a workshop given by Boston Handmade member and fiber artist Linda Branch Dunn at her studio at Western Avenue Studios in Lowell, MA. The class was titled "Improv Screenprinting" and we learned how to make screens using a thermofax machine, and various ways on printing on fabric. I brought the fabric that I had previously dyed using gelatin printmaking methods, and layered over it with a screen of one of the tree photos I took at Brooksby Farm. And Linda let use some of her screens as well.

The result? I am in love with screenprinting and surface design in general. So much so that I have registered for classes with fiber artist Wen Redmond in New Hampshire. Her work is stunning (as is Linda's) and I can't wait to absorb some of her expertise.

A March through the Marshes

2009-03-21T19:53:00.000-07:00

Joe had an art class assignment this weekend that involved taking panoramic photos which he will eventually reference for a watercolor painting. We went to a few places in Salem that he wasn't happy with. I wasn't happy that it was so cold, I was hungry, we had marched all over the place, and as always, it was a last minute thing. That's high school I guess!

Anyway, out of nowhere he said, "the marshes! the marshes behind the school!" behind his high school in Danvers, MA. So we went, and while Joe took his panoramic photos, I took photos of Joe.

Apple Orchard Mixed Media

2009-03-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

I had some leftover canvases so I thought I'd try to do something with some of the photos I took of Brooksby Farm. I made a black and white line print of one of the shots of brances and printed it on rice paper, then adhered it to the canvas. From there it took on a life of its own with many, many layers of acrylics, pearlescent pigments, and fiber. The result is definitely inspired by the orchard in summer. One can just wait for the warmer weather.

The piece is listed on etsy http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22506235.

Goodbye Back Issues, I'll Miss You

2009-03-06T10:06:00.000-08:00

I remember the first time I saw "Somerset Studios" magazine and still remember how the art and craft inside immediately struck me. I was hooked! Since 2002 I have been collecting these magazines (not ALL of them) but dozens and dozens fill my studio. Not just "Somerset Studio" magazine, but also "Cloth, Paper, Scissors" and "Quilting Arts" and many others.

My tastes have changed. Now I'm reading "Surface Design" and "Art New England" and some others. And since I can't seem to stop buying magazines, I need to make room in my studio. So I am listing dozens and dozens and dozens of back issues on EBAY.

As of this moment there are about a dozen, and I will be adding more over the next few days.

Goodbye old friends, I hope you find good homes and continue to inspire.

Notes for Spring

2009-03-02T14:16:00.001-08:00

Well, there wasn't much to do today other than wish the snow away. So here are some new digi-collages that I'll convert to gelatin fresco prints. The birds and trees are all from photos I've taken this winter from my deck, and from Brooksby Farm in Peabody.

Disintegration Part II

2009-02-26T18:26:00.000-08:00

Back in January I joined in a collaborative effort instigated by Seth Apter of The Altered Page called "Disintegration." Says Seth, bundles of every imaginable material, shape, and color are hung, tied, buried, and submerged all around the world. Nature is working her magic with snow, rain, hail, sun, wind, earth, fire, and water all interacting with and disintegrating bundles of bundles. On May 1, each artist will reveal the results on their own blog.

I am periodically updating my original disintegration blog post which you can read about here. Ahhh, the trials and tribulations of paper and string.

2009-02-25T09:03:00.000-08:00

Last year our friend Evelyn brought a lovely bouquet, which I of course photographed and layered with a photo of an acrylic mess I had created. Today I used that image to transfer to a glazed gelatin fresco surface. This is the result. I like the depth from the variety of layers.

Available on etsy.

Exhibiting this Summer

2009-02-23T18:45:00.001-08:00

Is there such a thing as application season? I know right now it's tax season, but for artists looking to exhibit at shows this summer, it seems like all the application deadlines are here or approaching soon!

So far I know I will be at the South End Open Market, and semi-related shows like the South End Open Studios and Baked Fresh. I just sent my application in for Twist Fair in Northampton, which I hear is fairly new, but fabulous. And there are all these other applications in front of me...

Here's one of the new pieces I've been playing with for upcoming shows.

Stay tuned!

Remember when there was just ONE?

2009-02-21T12:43:00.001-08:00

Remember when most people just had one online presence? Just the website? When there was just the one place where you could find out what was happening with your favorite artist? Now there are so many online options available...so no matter whether you are a facebooker or twitterer....you can most likely find out what I'm doing. On the other hand, I'm trying to figure out when enough is enough....shops...social marketing sites...blogs. What has become of my lonely old website?

As evidenced by the growing list of "where to find me" links on this blog, here are the many ways you can find me online nowadays, where at least ONE of them may be up-to-date.!
My Blog (You are here!)
Etsy . 1000 Markets . Trunkt (You can shop!)
Facebook (You can become a Fan!)
Twitter (You can Follow Me!)

New Horizons in Printmaking

2009-02-15T07:58:00.000-08:00

Just heard about this today, and am heading off to Bedford for the Artist Talk and Demo of "New Horizons in Printmaking." I took an alternative digital printmaking workshop with Mary Taylor a few years back...today she will demonstrate techniques for creating unique monoprints using non-toxic block printing inks and gelatin, then collage the prints into concertina style book binding.

2009-02-13T12:01:00.000-08:00

Something the economy has me acutely aware of is the cost of art materials. Thanks to tips from Bonny Lhotka, one of the authors of Digital Art Studio, I have begun using MDF (medium density fiberboard) as a substrate for my artwork. Using an alternative digital printmaking process, the digital collage is transferred to the MDF and I'm so happy with the results. One example is above. It's part of a triptych. The other 2 pieces are drying. I'll post the full piece when it's done.

"energy" digital collage

2009-02-10T19:42:00.000-08:00

How about a vibrant, energetic collage to brighten an otherwise grey February day?

Do you see colors in music?

2009-02-09T20:08:00.000-08:00

For the longest time, my son and I have not been able to understand why my husband doesn't "see" the shapes and movement we do when listening to music. Then today I read an article about "synthesesia" which is a neurological happening that can take many forms (not necessarily what happens to my son and I), but where you can "see" colors in sounds.

In the article I read, this particular child would go to the symphony with his parents and assumed that the lights went down so that everyone could see the colors better. "I mean, why else would they do it?" he said. He didn't realize that his parents didn't see any colors based on the music. According to the article, he never knew that his condition had a name until he happened to be researching the genetics of perfect pitch, which has been anecdotally linked with synesthesia.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synesthesia

No particular point here, other than it's fascinating to me how our brains work. I'm thinking again about my fascination with how Temple Grandin describes visual perception as an autistic person. And how animal language is complex and intricate, conveying an intelligence that we can't comprehend. I'm wondering how, with all of these comlexities, standardized tests are used to put kids in nice, neat, labeled boxes. The mind boggles...

BE MINE: 2nd Annual Boston Handmade Valentine Show

2009-01-29T07:48:00.000-08:00

I'll be selling these sweet, original Valentine cards, along with several new works at Be Mine: The 2nd Annual Boston Handmade Valentine Show.
Friday, February 6 ~ 5pm to 9pm
450 Harrison Avenue - Gallery #31 - 31 Thayer Street
South End, Boston, MA

This one-night-only event coincides with the First Friday open studios and gallery receptions in the SoWa arts district of Boston's South End. Local artists, artisans and craftspeople will be exhibiting their one-of-a-kind and limited edition works, along with live acoustic music by Peter Paulousky and new exhibitor designs created especially for the winter season and Valentine's Day.

Hope to see you there!

Disintegration

2009-01-26T05:54:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Seth Apter of The Altered Page, I've begun somewhat of a mystery of a project called "Disintegration." The idea is to be inspired by the natural evolution of time, in collaboration with nature. I chose to use signatures from an old "1939 Supplement to French's Catalog of Plays" which I have been holding onto for quite a while. I have a feeling that our New England winter will be a wonderful collaborator! I have absolutely no idea how this will play out, but I look forward to the big reveal in spring, when I will figure out how to use the results.

2/26/09 -- Checked my bundles today and it looked like two of them were missing! There were four to begin with, including the cover of the 1939 booklet that I loved so much. And that one was missing.

So, I looked all around, and found both of the missing bundles. One was about 10 feet away huddled against a bench underneath my porch, and the other was hidden underneath a sled! How did it get there? Does it not want to be part of this project? Does it want to come back to the studio where it was nice and warm?

Anyway, I tucked both bundles back where they belong, and hopefully they will stay there this time.

in celebration

2009-01-19T20:08:00.001-08:00

River of Hope
1/20/09

I just love this new print...another abstract based on those gelatin prints a while back, and incorporating a photo I took of trees (I think it was in Gloucester, MA). This is available on my etsy shop at http://chrisenc.etsy.com.

People, Places and Things: Documenting Our World Through Art

2009-01-13T13:14:00.001-08:00

Getting ready for a new season of art at the Salem Arts Association! CinemaSalem will exhibit member works throughout February 2009.

My studio companions

2009-01-11T12:57:00.000-08:00

I know some people would go stark raving mad if they had to work by themselves and not have much daily contact with co-workers or clients. Much of what I do involves working alone in my studio...and it suits me just fine. Of course, I do have these constant companions each day to keep me company! Sammy (the cat) and Little Bit (the mini-daschund) -- my favorite lunch partners -- were willing participants the other day while I tried out my new Canon Rebel digital SLR camera. I'm looking forward to a day when the weather is above 20 degrees so I can take it out for a spin!

New Online Shop at 1000 Markets

2009-01-10T19:46:00.000-08:00

I've recently joined 1000 Markets, a new online market of small, independent, artisan businesses built by people who love their craft. Many of my Boston Handmade friends have joined as well. So far I've listed prints of my new abstract designs. Stay tuned for more!

More fun with photos and frescoes

2009-01-09T20:15:00.000-08:00

I've been veering more and more to these abstract images which combine my photographs (this one incorporates an image taken from high atop Boston at the Harvard Club) with scans of gelatin monoprints, which are so fun to make. This whole series will soon be available as frescoed, textured panels.

Is that your breakfast, or is it an art project?

2009-01-05T08:29:00.000-08:00

Saturday morning my husband asked whether I was making breakfast, or working on an art project. Even though I found his question hysterical, the more I thought about it, I can understand his confusion. Many times my projects consist of ingredients like knox gelatine, and other vague looking powdery substances. And, although most of my work is done in a separate studio room, I do sometimes take over the kitchen counter.

So, for the record, the bowl at the top is a bowl filled with pancake mix. The bowl at the bottom has some clear liquid gelatin, and the measuring cup is filled with marble powder -- not a breakfast recipe -- but a recipe for making frescoes.

2008-12-29T11:34:00.000-08:00

It's such a strange time of year, when some things are ending and others just beginning. Last night marked the end of Boston Handmade's one month holiday gallery in Downtown Crossing. It was so much fun, and a fitting end to a year in which my main goal was to become involved with other local artists, and get my work out in front of people. I'm so thankful to have joined Boston Handmade and the Salem Arts Association, and for the opportunities that presented themselves in 2008.

So now it's on to new goals for 2009. There are several juried art shows/festivals locally that I will apply to for the first time, and I plan on marketing myself online and with printed materials in a more frequent, consistent manner. But the three main goals I have for myself this year are to:
1. Work 5 days a week in the studio
2. See my work in three new galleries
3. License one or more of my designs

Are goals 2 and 3 at odds with each other? I don't know the answer to that yet. But I'm excited about new opportunities ahead, even during an economy that seems to be going further and further down the drain. The way I see it though, is that just being there is half the battle, and I'm there.

Suspended for the Season

2008-12-22T07:50:00.000-08:00

With the kids on school vacation, and all of the holiday shopping, gift wrapping, cooking, and housecleaning to do, my creative life has come to a complete halt. Frozen for the season...much like the view from my front door. Christmas is nice, but is it selfish of me to want to sneak into my studio and just play for a few hours? Sigh.

I just realilzed this is a complete 180 from my last post. Guess I need my art fix more often than I thought!

2008-12-19T18:15:00.000-08:00

It was a perfect day to decorate the tree today. Snow storm outside...not the kind of day to be driving anywhere...just right for staying in and doing Christmas things.

Tomorrow I will be at Boston Handmade Downtown once again. It's the last weekend we have for Christmas shopping, so head to the gallery in Downtown Crossing for the most unique gifts you'll find this season!

p.s. if you were wondering about Katie, she is doing fine :-)