by heidi k henderson

Footstool Trio

2012-01-20T07:35:00.000-08:00

I was brainstorming with my dear artist friend, Patty, during one of our recent monthly meetings and the idea of footstools for an upcoming Home Show at the Bloomington Art Center came to be.

So with a girlfriend, I went footstool hunting last week and scored! Above you can see the treasures found. Perfect in size and variety (not to mention condition of the wood!) these are the perfect foundation for my fabrics. I'm quite excited!

And this one even opens up! I'm thrilled as I'm able to keep the interior material (a beautifully aged black and white pattern on heavy paper) as it is still in good condition and works with the newly chosen exterior fabric.

I do not know how old these footstools are. I do wish they could talk! Wouldn't you love to know their stories? When I dropped off the fabrics and trims yesterday, my favorite upholsters had started taking the old fabric off. The picture below shows the innards, horsehair and all....

Stay tuned for the end result!

Completely erased!

2012-01-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

A couple of studio sessions ago I had created an encaustic painting that left me feeling quite unsettled. I had too many ideas crammed into this 4" x 6" canvas that it more resembled a smorgasbord than a composition.

And then I had an idea.... why should I continue to have this in my studio when I didn't love it completely? I know there are some pieces you don't love and you hang onto them and someone will love them and they eventually find a home. But this piece, I know, was not to be one of those.

And so I turned this unloved smorgasbord upside down on my hot plate and melted the layers of wax and images right off! It was so freeing!! I've never done anything like this before with my art - making this choice to not live with something that just doesn't fit, or trying to make it fit would be like jamming a square peg into a round whole - wasting energy all for not. It was just not meant to be and now, through this drastic action of scrapping a completed piece, I now have piece of mind and a canvas ready for a new composition that I know I'll just love.....

Midsummer Light in Midwinter Grey

2011-12-27T13:13:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to have received this Midsummer Light as a holiday gift this year. I was first introduced to Tord Boontje at MOMA a few years ago. I absolutely fell in love with his work :) and took his studio book home where I fall in love all over again.

I installed my new light in the corner of my home studio where it's absolutely perfect! I'm going to enjoy viewing and being inspired by the delicate layers of paper leaves and flowers....

Words with Art

2011-12-13T06:49:00.000-08:00

"One (Tiny Little House)"

I have, over the years, been curious about the impact of adding a word (or two or three), a thought, or a sentence into a work of art. I know, as a viewer myself, how influenced I have been by the creator's combination of the two. I have fluctuated between liking this and not - perhaps it's my preconceived notion that needs reworking: that the added word or words make the piece more "crafty" instead of "art". Another curiosity......

Granted, you may already may know how important titles are to me with my original oil paintings. As my grandmother said, a painting is unfinished unless it has a title. This has stayed with me and I have found myself open to different possible titles as I progress through the process of a painting. And because the title and the painting are so intricately connected I think they can each help the viewer to gain more information about what they are viewing. The story is more complete for it.

Now when it comes to incorporating a word into the work of art, now that seems maybe not so different? As the title would then be the word.... Hmmm....

And so yesterday, in the studio, I was compelled to bring forth the combination of the two in one tiny little house encaustic painting. What do you think? I am personally quite pleased with the results and am eager to continue this line of thought....

The Eye of the Leek

2011-12-12T06:27:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't that make a great title for a painting?

I was inspired to take this shot the other night while cooking dinner. I find leeks to be so very inspiring in all of their rings lined in green. And I love pushing my finger through and popping out the middle, splitting the concentric circles apart.....

The corner turned

2011-11-28T10:59:00.000-08:00

Combined with my interpretation of a recent critique and with my latest found inspiration (it's quite curious how this mental processing all works out during the process of it all - all the way to the end), I went to work the other day in my studio with a newfound sense of direction. I'm quite excited by the results!

As you can see, the foundation of which my Tiny Little Houses are built upon are becoming more of a focal point. There is grass and hills and checker board grounds..... I feel I am finding the balance between the simple and rich beauty of the medium and the ability to combine different patterns and forms all together in one piece.

What do you think?

Latest inspiration

2011-11-21T10:51:00.000-08:00

I came across this children's book, Otis, the other day at one of my favorite independent book stores, The Red Balloon Bookshop. I had seen it once before, but now I'm finding myself noodling around the images found on the pages of my fuzzy memory in much a different way than my initial introduction.

(I told myself at the time I can rely on my memory, but now I think I might need to just add this book to my collection for easier reference.)

The coloration and the subtle simple patterns (i.e. blades of grass seen on the cover to the left) that make up the whole are what I'm finding I'm gravitating towards.

I'm curious and eager to see what transpires from this renewed acquaintance..... As always, stay tuned.

The next step

2011-11-11T06:17:00.000-08:00

There is progression found everywhere. From sunrise to noon to sunset, from the bud of a flower to the flower to the pod, from buying groceries to fixing a meal to eating... Nothing is the same from moment to moment as each being/experience follows it's path of life.

I think the same goes for a series of artwork. The creation process also follows a progression. What has been discovered and learned in the past will dictate what step comes next in the future. I love the lack of stagnation and this means there are only unlimited possibilities. The only limit is ourselves.

And so I received my order the other day, new pigmented cakes of beeswax from R&F. I have an idea and it involves my tiny little houses and the addition of iridescent pewter, iridescent pearl, iridescent german silver and iridescent brass (which is much brighter than I anticipated, but who knows? this may be a blessing in disguise!). So as always, stay tuned and see what comes next into the world of my tiny little houses :)

The finishing touches....

2011-11-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

are taking place in the studio as I prepare for this weekend's large studio event, Art Attack. I first attach the custom frames to the boxes that make up the wax background for each and then I gently secure a tiny little house in the center of it all. Add the hardware and my signature on the back and they are ready to go!

My Tiny Little Houses, are making their debut! and I'm quite excited to share them with everyone! If you are in town, I hope you can stop by :)

The latest vegetable on my counter

2011-10-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

I had purchased a beautiful eggplant from the farm a bit of time ago, with every intention of eating it. But as it sat in a basket on my kitchen counter it started to take on a whole new and different personality, and one that I realized I wasn't about to shorten by selfish consumption.

the warm leather brown
underside...

I moved it to a pottery piece, which I think resembles a tiny boat in this situation, and it seemed to me that this little being was floating peacefully down the slow and windy river of life.

what a hat!

It must be easily near 2 months since I first brought it home and it has since morphed into quite an interesting character. From the shape of it's "hat" to the "underside of it's soul" it's provided unending interest while I'm at the kitchen sink.

Tiny Little Houses.... The Movie!

2011-10-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

Here it is! The one and only, uniquely created by Pretty Fluffy Chicken and me. I'm super excited with how our first video together turned out. What do you think?

Building homes for my tiny little houses

2011-10-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love it when unexpected combinations occur outside of our control?

Sometimes it can take years before 2 ideas meet.... In this case (a small wooden box for an expired idea that had fallen to the wayside (a while ago) and the need (most recently discovered) for a home for my tiny little houses), it was probably only a bit over a month before these 2 ideas were hitched together.

I played/experimented around and created the perfect recipe for the backdrop for my tiny little houses.

The photograph above shows one of the steps. Encaustic covers the sides and the back of the wooden boxes. The next layer of oil will create the tonality for the atmosphere I'm desiring..... Stay tuned ;)

Plucked from my garden

2011-10-13T09:13:00.000-07:00

I love gourds, completely inspired by their forms. No two are alike and it's sometimes hard to figure out which to buy (or to rule out) for an arrangement.

This year was different as I had a volunteer plant coming from my compost pile. I don't remember composting this variety last year.... Regardless, I was excited to see what the decision that was made for me had in mind.

I'm quite taken with this color! and am surprised by their solidity (average weight around 1.25 pounds!) - I love how their weight, form, and texture feels in the palm of my hand! At first glance they seem so very similar from one to the next. But their subtle differences nestled together are what make this collection different and interesting.

The development is expanding....

2011-10-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Neighbors?!

I started expanding upon my little houses idea with larger boards. This is one of my latest, in process, a few layers (of wax) in, and yet a few layers to go before its completed.

Prepping for tomorrow's painting day

2011-09-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

Ready to go!

I'm looking forward to pursuing the ideas that have been tumbling around in my mind since before our travels. I pulled out the wood cradles this morning, looking and feeling for the 'right' size. The ones shown here are the winners - I figure they can be both horizontal and vertical in nature....

An introduction made....

2011-09-25T10:51:00.000-07:00

in un mondo di fiaba
(in a world of fairytale)

My husband and I were able to spend a day in Genova, Italy this last month. Walking the character-filled streets we came across Il Vicolo Galleria d'Arte. I spotted a piece (Emanuele's Concerto grosso di Bach) through the window and had to go in.

I realize the image to the left is quite small and therefore certainly doesn't give justice to the piece itself, but it was the closest I could find on the web that reminded me of my recent love at first sight. Created by the late Emanuele Luzzati I was drawn immediately to the colorful and dream-like state of his work. I was also intrigued by the variety of medium the artist used in one piece.

I do think I need to see the short films he has created as well as the children's books he's illustrated. And I can just imagine the costumes and sets he designed! I'm sure his style was through and through.... He would probably be one of those people I would love to have met....

My head was pulled in all directions

2011-09-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

Near 2 years ago, I was inspired to paint a series of 1 dozen eggs (because of my infatuation with eggs!). Each painting (measuring approx. 5" x 7") would be on a piece of old dock section from my parents' place. I began laying out with fingers and paint the 12 subjects, but then, unexpectedly (despite my enthusiasm for my idea) I stopped due to a road block of not knowing how to proceed. How could the idea of painting something seemingly simple in form halt my progress? and so I pushed them aside.....

One of the 12 eggs set aside.....

Jumping forward to 2011: at the beginning of the summer I signed up for a class at Minnetonka Center for the Arts. Titled "Passionate Painting", taught by local impressionistic painter, Michele Combs, I was intrigued about the idea of approaching a painting in a loose, yet controlled, and yet passionate, manner.

So already a couple of weeks ago, my head was pulled in all directions - by the end of the second day it hurt! but oh in such a good way! I was being challenged - on all so many levels - levels I hadn't anticipated :)

I stood to paint when I normally sit
I used an easel when I normally use my lap to hold my paintings
I used more paint in one session than I have ever before
I used big, big brushes instead of my tiny miniature ones
I painted from a photograph and from a still life
And I finished the paintings I started in the same day!

Craziness!! Can you see why my head hurt? :) And then you may ask, "what does the egg series have to do with this?" The answer is - I brought a couple of my started eggs (as I wondered if this approach was what they needed) and asked Michele if I may, instead of a blank canvas, take her approach/technique and apply it to my eggs. She was supportive!

Surprisingly it kinda felt like I was jumping off a very high bridge into the water below - completely letting go....

My first attempt on an egg.....

The second egg.....

What do you think? Personally, I'm re-enthused with my eggs! I can hardly wait to continue work on the other 10.... Stay tuned.... :)

I thought I'd share also with you the paintings of a summer bouquet:

Instructor Michele's still life - such yummy texture and loose stroke!

My interpretation.... (I can see my stroke tighten up....)

Granted it's going to involve some conscious effort to hang onto this new technique, but I definitely think the process is rewarding. So we'll just have to see where this fits into the whole of it all.....

A series of little houses

2011-08-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

So here is what I did with those little houses I drew. Granted it's a bit hard to tell through the photographs below, but I'm pleased with how each layer of wax added another layer of subtle interest and depth to create the overall landscape. And I love the size!; these all measure 3 1/2" x 2 1/2". I'm currently working out my idea on how to present them..... I can't help but think of creating more little houses with orange, lavender, turquoise doors (just to name a few of the infinite possibilities!).....

"Little House with a Blue Door"

"Little House with a Brown Door"

"Little House with a Red Door"

"Little House with a Yellow Door"

I was drawn to houses

2011-08-11T06:19:00.000-07:00

Simple little houses....

For whatever reason, the other day, I was drawn to drawing child-like houses. Sometimes simple is better. At times, I tend to over-think, make whatever it might be more complex, than I really need to. Thinking back to what it was I drew when I was little was a good starting point for a new idea... stay tuned :)

Abstracted, yet detailed

2011-08-08T10:29:00.000-07:00

I don't always gravitate to paintings that I would consider abstract in nature. Yet the work of Barbara Krupp caught my eye the other day at the Uptown Art Fair. At first glance I saw blocks of color, but as I looked more closely, my eye also saw the layers of paint, the textural brushstrokes - all of which made up the whole. And to my delight I also saw the unexpected - a so very soft line, delicate and flowing, full of character that ebbed and flowed in and out of the layers of paint. I found it all so very inspiring....

I've had an idea....

2011-08-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

Duke Ellington once said, "I merely took the energy it takes to pout and wrote some blues." This is one of my favorite quotes and one that I try to keep in mind more often than not (though easier said than done at times!) when I feel the urge to feel sorry for myself...

During these last few months, my creative ideas have been percolating around in my mind, coming out only a step at a time, as the healing process (in my arms) allows.

The other day I was ready to try the next step to an idea I've had. Painting on fabric - specifically a lovely hemp silk blend (in keeping with my desire to be sustainable) with a delightful texture and weight. Granted this is the first draft, but I am excited by the results and possibilities. Plus, it was fun to do (which is always a plus ;) )! So stay tuned and we'll wait and see where the next tweaking of this idea takes us....

Suction pads like no other

2011-08-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

My friend, Leah, shared her find with me the other day as she knows I love bugs. It was a brilliant lime-green and 2 1/2" long luna moth caterpillar. I immediately was captivated and marveled at all of it's characteristics - from it's not so pretty head to the girth of it's waist to the hairs on it's pads. Days later, I am still in awe I was able to witness such a creature - a bit of Alice-like-wonderland amongst life's usual routine....

Ah... the aroma of molten encaustic medium

2011-06-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

I made another batch yesterday as I was nearly out. There is nothing like the aroma of wax - especially when it becomes warm and then liquid.

I sometimes forget how prep work is also a part of the process - not to be devalued/labeled as a waste of time/an obligation to check off the list before one can be creative.

I appreciate the reminder to be mindfully creative in whatever task is at hand (well, though maybe this idea would be a stretch with scooping cat litter) :)

Landscape of Snail

2011-06-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Our pond this year is filled with all sorts of life - perhaps years past they've always been there, but this time around we can't help but notice the plethora of tadpoles, water bugs of all kinds, fish, and snails....

It was only after I took the picture, upon reviewing the shots of the morning, did I see the Landscape of Snail. Instead of the reflections in the water surface, I now saw the snail navigating across varying terrain with trees in the horizon and a sky above.

Curious how a fresh perspective can help one travel through life....

Change is in the Air

2011-06-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

Oh dear! I do apologize for my absence! Unfortunately, I had strained my forearm muscles (and thus adversely affected the tendons and nerves) a number of weeks ago and thus I had to take the time it takes for them to heal. Today, I am feeling more hopeful --- perhaps the end of the healing process is in sight!

With this unwelcome (at times) rest from the day to day routines, I have had many an opportunity to reflect on my creative processes, my inspirations, the idea of balance, goals and challenges. In the midst of the frustration and angst it has been hard to see the positive, but I am now quite excited by the changes I can feel that are about to emerge from it all.

So until my next post (hopefully sooner than later), I wish you lovely summer days ahead. And I look forward to sharing my next steps/directions with you ~ thank you for your interest! :)

Walking through the garden

2011-04-23T09:48:00.000-07:00

Crazy texture and gorgeous color!!

The other day I spotted the beginning of my last year's favorite plant (every year I gravitate to one that I am especially inspired by - last year it was this: a so very large-leafed plant that is of the rhubarb family).

The beginning of the stalks and leaves have started to emerge from the spring earth in their crinkle-like way. I love the depth found in their characteristics - don't you?

New studio underway!

2011-04-20T09:37:00.000-07:00


the right wall, showing the doorway to the other side

Track lighting and paint will give this old space a new look filled with possibilities!


the opposite side --- aren't these great walls??

Brick and cement aren't always the easiest to hang artwork from. But how could I resist such character?? I love the texture of the old brick and how it is inset into the wall. The cement pillars complete the look with their three-dimensionality. What fun!

Oh! I have an idea....

2011-04-05T07:52:00.000-07:00

Don't you love it when you say yes to something even though you don't know at the time what you'll do with it? This was the case on the chair you see to the left. My dear friend and fellow artist, Patty Carmody-Smith, picked it up along side the road with me in mind. Granted I was taken with it's wooden curves, but I really didn't know what I would do with it, much less than when I would do something with it.....

I can hardly wait to show you! I'll just say it involves red, black and white. Stay tuned!

I'm in love....

2011-04-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

I made it to the MAEP gallery at the MIA yesterday to see Margaret Wall-Romana's oil paintings (closes on Sunday, April 3rd). I walked into the room with an oh! and an ah! and I'm so glad I made the time to stop! I loved the scale, the range of abstract to realistic representation, the depth created by the so very many layers and the application of paint, from soft blending of color to thick impasto, the lack of detail and the amount of detail.... All to be found in one piece! I was transported to another world - one that I liked considerably - and one I that I hope to not forget.....

Hmmmmm....

2011-03-26T14:39:00.000-07:00

I came across this thought this morning over breakfast in the recent journal from Surface Design. The fiber artist in the journal's article referenced Vera John-Steiner who wrote the following in Notebooks of the Mind:

"...of the greatest importance in the thought activity of artists and scientists is their pulling together of ideas, images, disarranged facts and fragments... into an integrated work."

I love how clearly this resounds in me!

Seed heads

2011-03-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

My co-worker, Melissa, at Gale Woods Farm had me take some photographs yesterday in her greenhouse. Eighty degrees and lovely with the aroma of black soil and compost I took a few for her.

Onion seedlings with heads of seed were still attached to their slender green bodies. I love the balance of daintiness and strength that was displayed throughout the flats. I desire to live with such balance!

Breaking in a New Brush with Green

2011-03-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like a new paintbrush! and so yesterday morning I started work in detail with with my favorite, Winsor Newton, Size 1, Series 7 Miniature.

The precise line that can be obtained from a virgin brush is unlike anything else. I find the experience to be absolutely delicious!

My "green" palette was what I worked from and you can see the result above on my latest work in progress.

"Artist" redefined

2011-03-03T13:24:00.000-08:00

Over breakfast the other morning I was reading the most recent Surface Design Association Journal. I was drawn to an article titled Affinities ~ Fiber and Wax by Joanne Mattera. Having myself explored the two mediums individually, I have been curious about the idea of combining them together within one piece and so it was a natural fit to start reading..... I didn't get very far into the article (only to the 4th paragraph) before I had to stop and let what I just read, sink in:

....."Neither Johns or Bourgeois is identified by materials but by ideas---a good reason for all of us to eliminate the adjectives we use to define ourselves as artists.".....

The whole idea that it is the idea behind it all that could define myself as an artist, verses the materials I use to create my work, is a breath of fresh air! Not that I needed anyone's permission to do what I may, I still find her perspective quite freeing. :)

Regardless of the mediums, the underlying thread (my desire to accurately portray the passion I feel for my sources of inspiration through texture, layer, form and color) has always been there. So onward and upward I shall continue not as an oil painter dabbling in textiles or as a textile artist who paints, but as an artist giving credit to the natural world around me through the use of different mediums....

What fun!

Yummi-ness!

2011-03-02T13:54:00.000-08:00

My current work-in-progress is on a companion door to the door that my most recent completed story, My Inner Reptile, is painted on. This canvas has the knob which I think adds such an unique 3D feature to the piece. This 3D element also seems to follow/mimic the circular orbs located on the lower right and left areas within the painting....

Today I continued laying out the colors and blocking out the forms with a not-so-often used larger brush (the result is shown above). Now I'm eager to start laying in the details with my favorite tool, a water-color brush by Winsor & Newton.

10 Hours Later

2011-02-23T13:27:00.000-08:00

I finished my painting, My Inner Reptile, this morning, 10 hours later than when I told myself the first time it was done. I'm really pleased I continued writing the story with paint as now it is so very complete, without any doubt or nagging idea tapping the back of my mind telling me otherwise.

Now comes the cover to the story to present it to the world in.... Stay tuned to see what frame profile I choose......

Skeletons in the Garden

2011-02-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

Isn't this a great title for a painting? It conjures up such interesting images! When combined together they would make a really good story (who knows-- there might be someday such a painting of mine whose title this is!).....

I came across, in the New York Times the other week, a visually yummy paragraph within an interesting article: "If you make a four season garden you have to learn to accept decay and see the beauty of it. It's about the texture and shape, the seed heads and the skeletons....."

The skeletons in my garden became more apparent last week as the weather broke 50 degrees. However, they are now again mostly buried due to the recent weekend snowfall (24"!). So I have had to temporarily put my spring fever bug back on the back burner and again derive pleasure from the simplistic forms protruding from the snow....

Unexpected eye-candy

2011-02-17T07:12:00.000-08:00

My grandparents were avid birders and I, at a young age, connected birding with the retired and/or the elderly! Oh dear, I now stand corrected!
As I don't consider myself elderly and I certainly haven't retired, I have, over the recent years, found unexpected inspiration in these fine feathered friends outside of my studio and home windows. The layering of feathers and the miniature texture and details throughout their little bodies... are all so inspiring to me. Not to mention they exhibit such personalities!

The picture above is one my husband took on our recent trip to Ecuador. I absolutely love his eye! and find his work (in addition to the subject matter) very inspiring....

Miniature crazy detail!

2011-02-09T17:09:00.000-08:00

This is a small gourd that we purchased in Quito, Ecuador, with a story wood-burned in. I fell in love with the miniature detail throughout it's three-dimensional being. It's quite crazy when you look closely at it -- as the imagery flows perfectly together from one turn to the next. I can't imagine how it is done with a wood-burning tool.....

So many layers!

2011-02-09T16:48:00.000-08:00

My husband and I returned recently from an amazing trip to Ecuador. The first half of our trip was spent in the rain forest near a tributary to the Amazon. It was here especially I marveled at what it is that I'm not able to see, but that is able to see me. Above is a picture I took where this is summed up perfectly. Perhaps you can see him/her? It is slightly to the left of center.....

The magnitude of the layers that where all around me no matter where I looked was so very inspiring. I could have easily sat in one spot for a very long time to just observe all that was in front of me - that in a glance wouldn't have been captured in my gaze (and then maybe not even!) unless it hopped, crawled, leapt or swung.....

Stay tuned. I'm working on organizing my photographs from this trip and am looking forward to sharing more....

I can hardly wait!

2011-02-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

This last week I received notification I am officially enrolled in a 4 day workshop coming up in June. I can hardly wait! There are pre-conference workshops and post-conference workshops, seminars, guest speakers, exhibitions, along with so much more! All are a part of Confluence, a bi-annual Conference through the Surface Design Association. The Textile Center in Minneapolis is hosting this 2 week event.

My instructor for Mix It Up! Mixed Media Collage is Wen Redmond. I'm delighted and so very excited to see what I walk away with. I feel I'm already dabbling in mixed media and would love some insight on how I could better tie all of my (or at least a fair number of them) various interests and different materials together. This seems like a perfect fit!

The description for my workshop is: "Make your mark! Mixed media embraces the unknown and the unexpected. Participants will use created fabrics and cloth collage. They will experiment with mediums and textures. Get inspired! Be open to serendipity! Investigate layering techniques, unique stamping, image transfer, easy monoprinting and more exciting collage secrets. Embrace the unexpected! Mistakes are opportunities to let go of prearranged outcomes and listen to the inner muse. Experimentation is key!"

Sounds pretty neat, doesn't it? :)

I had an idea and it involved gold leaf....

2011-02-04T12:43:00.000-08:00

As much as I wanted to say this painting was finished, I knew deep down it wasn't. How did I know? Because I had an idea that I kept shooting down and trying to forget - all to no avail as it kept hounding me. So I gave in and am thrilled I did so! You can see the latest detail/addition to my painting, My Inner Reptile. I still have a few more layers to do, but that is all, and then for sure it will be done :) As always, do stay tuned....

Curiosity and Mystery

2011-01-03T18:09:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to hang onto being curious. Curious with a capital "W" for Why, What, Who and When..... And we can't forget about How so I also need to have Curious with a capital "H"....

I feel there is a direct correlation between being curious and playing (creating) and I feel I have lost these abilities (to some extent). If I can devote time to being curious (read more here), I then imagine I will take the time to play and lose myself in the mystery of it all.

I think having a magnifying glass with me at all times will help......

Millimeters and centimeters

2011-01-03T17:40:00.000-08:00

I'm becoming acquainted, and I'm sure by the time the last page has turned, good friends with millimeters and centimeters. This delicious, eye candy book caught my eye at a local bookstore the other week. I am in love with the itty-bitty detail of it all found in the fruits colors, textures and forms. And to think some of these are just a few millimeters in length is really quite mind-boggling! And then to realize these works of art (if I may call them such) actually exist!! As with most things in the natural world - it just takes time to observe and really see what is already around us to then be able to learn to appreciate the simpleness in life.....

Happy New Year to All!

2011-01-02T13:22:00.000-08:00

And so it is the 2nd day of the New Year and I can't help but wonder what is in store in the months ahead. Curiosity has struck and I am feeling there are possibilities and potentials out there waiting for discovery. I'm excited to have this feeling!

So last year I started the year off with resolutions... And how did I do with these over the past 12 months, you ask? There are many I touched upon and a few I didn't. And it's okay I tell myself if I didn't accomplish all that I set out to do. Because in their place there were many more experiences I wouldn't have imagined near a year ago that I was able to participate in. Isn't that what life is really all about? I kinda think so. Not to control, but instead to live in the moment and allow what is meant to be to be.

It's very much like how I approach a painting! So will I set new resolutions for 2011? I like that I put out into the Universe the ideas and deadlines (per say) I'd like to accomplish, but really it's all a lot more fulfilling to be in/to live in the process and not just for the end result. That is really what it is all about.

So I wish you, my reader, a very joy and process-filled year ahead. May it be luxurious in ideas and living in the moments!

The Line of Thought Behind it All

2010-11-30T11:39:00.001-08:00

This last holiday weekend I was able to experience the exhibition at MOMA titled "On Line: Drawing Through the Twentieth Century". Since then, my mind keeps noodling around the visual ideas the exhibit presented (I have to say I'm curious to incorporate the ideas I have seen into the processes of my own creations........ I've been influenced and inspired.....).

And I found myself quite taken by the thoughts expressed by some of the artists. Here are a couple:
"sewing thread to mend gaps and create visual connections between materials" --Anna Maria Maiolino
"Klee said of his drawn line: "It goes out for a walk, so to speak, aimlessly for the sake of the walk.""

Brussels Sprouts? Hedgehog Gourd?

2010-11-16T09:57:00.000-08:00

Hmmmm.... Certainly a little of each perhaps is influencing/inspiring the forms in my new painting. This is the companion door to the canvas of my most recent painting, "My Inner Reptile".
I'm really excited to continue the building up of layers.... This morning I just finished laying out the forms. Now the details....
As always, stay tuned :)

My mind is all a buzz...

2010-11-14T09:57:00.000-08:00

with the glorious imagery from the latest movie we watched, "The Secret of Kells". I highly recommend it for the visuals (though the story is quite good) ~ the layers of textures, forms, patterns and colors throughout create an amazing world worth visiting.....

(unfortunately this snippet above just doesn't give justice to it - you must see it for yourself.....)

P.S. I'm so inspired by it all! and thus it is certainly giving "Alice in Wonderland" a run for it's money for my favorite movie category.... I must see it again!

Universal Pants/Universal Designs at Art Attack

2010-11-11T09:47:00.000-08:00

My Dear Friend Linda modeling the magic of Universal Designs and Pants. She has on the latest line, "Winter Lovelies" (scarf, headband and wristies), featuring my patterns printed onto organic cotton. Universal Pants compliment her ensemble.....

Try on one, try on all, walk home with at least one! as
our creations
will certainly captivate your heart and body!

A lovely bouquet

2010-11-09T09:30:00.000-08:00

from my dear husband adorned my studio over Art Attack weekend. You can also see the suggestions of my new encaustic (on the left) and the great new color (Palladian Blue) I had recently painted on the walls....

New color ~ new studio!

2010-10-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

Seemingly out of the blue I found I needed new colors (and they weren't blue!) around me in my studio (located in the Northrup King Building). And of course, once I determined this, I then proclaimed to have this transformation completed in time for the infamous annual fall art event, Art Attack. Really, why would I consider waiting once I decided new colors were on the horizon? So for a couple of days these last couple of weeks I have spent making over the walls inside and out. Oh, it felt soooo good! Now I'm quite excited to hang the paintings (oil and encaustic), my mixed medium pieces, not to mention my textile pieces onto/with this new backdrop. The color on my exterior wall of my studio (a portion of it shown here) is named "spring dust". What a delightful tie-in to my never-ending source of inspirations, the organic world.....

More Ellie Sodaphant jounals underway

2010-10-15T14:02:00.000-07:00

It's that time to replenish my supply. And so it starts with ordering more recycled soda bottle fabric (printed with my organic digital designs) followed by cutting this and the elephant dung paper to size. Sewing the covers and binding the pages to the covers with a silk ribbon ties my favorite product all together.

A process it is and one that can't be rushed in the details (as are most things in life); I make a point to try to savor the time spent at each step and not get caught up and worry about keeping the time to minimum in the production costs. A challenge indeed!

Univeral Designs - studio day!

2010-10-12T14:12:00.000-07:00

What a delightful day it was! I spent a good portion of the day at Liz's Universal Pants studio. I brought with me 14 inspiring yards of organic cotton knit (a new fabric for me to use! one that is available through spoonflower.com) featuring 7 of my organic digital designs. She mocked up a few of our ideas (what we fondly call our "winter lovelies") with alternate materials for us to try out. So exciting! Stay tuned ~ upcoming events where these will be available are soon to come!

An amazing creation to behold

2010-10-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

Romanesco is also known as coral broccoli and I saw it for the first time today at the farm. As it is with nearly all things found in the natural world, it's hard to believe such a thing grows without any direction from the farmer or gardener on hand. It is absolutely amazing in all of it's details and glorious being. Truly inspired, I immediately purchased a head of it to sit on my desk where I could study all of it's intricacies. At the end of the day I moved it home to rest by the kitchen sink where the studies of it's plentiful characteristics continue.
I'm told it has a really good flavor..... Perhaps one day I'll purchase another for another type of sensory experience.......

Glorious Milkweed

2010-10-05T18:33:00.000-07:00

"The milkweed pods are breaking,
and the bits of silken down
float off upon the autumn breeze
across the meadows brown."

- by Cecil Carendish, The Milkweed

I came across this poem the other day and thought it was delightful in its verse and image. Especially since I had just picked a fair number of pods that day (from my own front yard milkweed grove). So that I could appreciate them just a while longer, I arranged them in a glass bowl. It is here, indoors, that I can regularly observe their green-turning-to-brown hollows and ridges - I find the exterior so appealing in pattern and texture. And certainly so different from the inner silken down.....

It was a very satisfying harvest

2010-09-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

that I had yesterday. The vines are started to yellow and the flowers no longer had the oomph they had had throughout the growing season. Granted it was the last day of summer yesterday and it seemed appropriate to pull the roots that had found a home in the dirt and harvest the hedgehog gourds that had come into the world these last couple of months.

I marveled at the uniqueness of each one as I pulled them from their food source - crazy the strength that was still there holding them to. And so strange in texture - softly bristly, yes, if gently held. But also I couldn't help but notice the feeling was somewhat similar to the encounter of a cactus, where very fine-like needles that, without gloves on, find their way into the skin and are so very hard to see to then remove.... Thankfully gloves were in hand, on hand, for the harvest to progress. What a delight it was to set them all out to dry! I left a few on the vine as I liked how it looked on my red cart.....

The latest capture

2010-09-19T19:43:00.000-07:00

It was the right side I concentrated on during this last painting session. Primarily the red-ish grape-like orbs. I'm very much aware of my desire for depth and it's hard to not use my usual, yet favorite, mix of color to create the darkness of shadow.... I'm not committed to this approach yet, but will see how it feels as the rest of the painting comes to a close. As always, stay tuned ;)

Internal layers...

2010-09-15T19:46:00.000-07:00

I set time aside the other day to play with wax. It had been awhile, unfortunately. But oh! how good it felt to really take some much needed time to re-explore this new medium of mine. All of my senses were awake and I was easily reminded why I had fallen in love with it just under a year ago. Shown is what emerged, the layers that were all a part of the process, from the minutes that had passed....

See, it's all about the process...

2010-09-10T18:21:00.000-07:00

I picked up another book (there is nothing like a book to reinforce a line of thought/possibility/idea), "Printmaking + Mixed Media" by Dorit Elisha (you can also visit her blog here). Printmaking was my focus in college and I firmly feel the approach I learned back then with this medium has influenced my creations today in painting with oil and now in wax. In chapter one she easily sums up the reasoning behind my approach: "Perhaps the best part of printmaking is the process-even before you achieve the final print, the journey there is very satisfying. There is an element of discovery, mystery, and surprise, as well as a great award at the end of the process....once you add other artistic media to the mix, it becomes an endless celebration of creative possibilities!"
What fun it all is!

The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating

2010-09-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Isn't that the most delightful title ever? It certainly caught my eye and my imagination when I was at the local book store last week. I ended up taking it home with me and have since enjoyed a page or two or three before sleep takes over.

I connect with the story on many levels - one of which is that it reaffirms my belief that there are an infinite amount of unexpected rewards found in closely observing nature. And if that isn't enough to entice you, in and of itself, I absolutely love the descriptive words and the images they draw in my mind (i.e. "....the snail's molluscan anatomy, cryptic defenses, hydraulic locomotion...".

And then each beautiful chapter is headed with a quote (and you know how much I love those!). My favorite thus far is by Sir William Osler, a physician who lived from 1849 to 1919. He said, "Think not of the amount to be accomplished, the difficulties to be overcome, or the end to be attained, but set earnestly at the little task at your elbow, letting that be sufficient for the day." Now isn't that the gentlest way to approach daily life?

(I also found this site, which has a wonderful description about the book and the meaning that can also be found (in addition to my above passions) within the pages....).

Without question, I highly recommend welcoming the sound of a wild snail eating into your world....

Softly bristly and green

2010-08-30T18:23:00.000-07:00

Remember this last late winter I had purchased some seeds from this great seed company? Well, Spring arrived and I planted them expectedly, and due to life it took me longer than intended to get my then-sad-looking seedlings into the ground. At the time, it really didn't look very promising... Well, nature did what it does during summer - lots of rain and warm sun and then, with great excitement, I saw happy bees at the sweet little yellow flowers. And as it is with any fruit, the flower then produced what I had hoped to see ~ hedgehog gourds! in all of their softly bristly and green glory! What a delight they are and how fun they are to feel!! I'm curious to see how they continue to grow as the season comes to an end. Will the softly bristly green remain? We shall see.....

Winged creatures

2010-08-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

I'm lately inspired by wings, large or small. From dragonflies to wasps to birds to even the faded almost transparent petals of a lily (though not a wing, the veins throughout resemble such), I soak the details in. This fascination seems to have found an outlet in my latest painting (above). The detail of this work in progress shows what I define as wings. From my book, Dictionary of Symbolism, I find wings typically, symbolically suggest "an elevation of, or improvement upon, the merely corporeal, subject as it is to the earth's gravity". Personally I see them as veins of life....

The ideal....

2010-08-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

From the zucchini chocolate chip cookie recipe to phrases like "....come back for a potholder hug...." -- these visuals of the Kingsolver family's experience have stuck with me after the last page of this memoir was turned. The idea to nurture ourselves through our choices, creating a lifestyle that supports us on all levels is goal-worthy. Challenging it may be at times, and overwhelming if not taken step by step, day to day balance is where it is at. That's easier said then done though, isn't it?

There are times where I want to live my life more like my painting. When I paint I let go of control, of time; I let the forms and textures guide me. It is here I can get lost and the clock does not matter. Yet I find my hurdle is to be able to break away from keeping house or working or running errands to paint. Why is it so difficult to do what one loves? Thankfully, life is a work in progress. Each day that begins anew gives us another chance. As the last sentence in the book stated, "a nest full of little ding-dongs, and time begins once more."

Oh!

2010-07-30T09:02:00.000-07:00

My dear dog, George, found this wonderfully large beetle the other day. Unfortunately, it was down in the basement, so unnatural-like, I moved it back outdoors where hopefully it could proceed through the day much more natural-like as a beetle is meant to. I need to figure out what kind it is - it had to be close to a quarter's size in diameter.... and the details are amazing! I'm sorry my camera couldn't capture it's unique tiny-ness! Though my mind has and it may eventually come out through the tiny brushes of my paint brush (not the beetle, but the idea of it's details in miniature form). :)

HKH meets Universal

2010-07-26T08:48:00.000-07:00

Liz Plambeck of Universal Pants and I have been sharing our talents with one another. The shirt I'm wearing to the left is representative of one of her wonderful handmade creations. It features on the front a pattern I had created from one of my original oil paintings (see hkhdesigns.com for more information). Creatively made from reclaimed fabrics and hemp/silk this is definitely one-of-a-kind. We plan on having open studio events this fall. Stay tuned....

And the off-white doors beckoned.....

2010-07-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

It didn't take me long to start seeing an image in the foundational layers of my process. I'm loving what is emerging! I think it's somewhat Alice in Wonderland (which I've now have seen it 4 times and each time just gets better!) inspired and intestinal influenced....

What treasures await!

2010-07-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks my husband I have had fun poking around antique shops and the like. Such finds were found! Above are the latest additions to my already full head of ideas. I'm quite excited by the possibilities..... So, as always, stay tuned! I find the off-white door beckoning.......

Tying it all together

2010-07-07T07:59:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled with how this turned out! It all started with an idea (of course). Sifting through the contents of an antique store (Hunt & Gather), in search of a lamp, I found the perfect fit for my idea! Uncanny how it all came together as the base and shade were sold separately (from different vendors) but actually worked really well together. The image is an excerpt from the original oil, The Melody of the Cat’s Meow (it is image 30/32 under gallery of originals on old doors). This was on display at my most recent exhibition at Normandale Community College in their Fine Art Gallery.

Materials include: archival inks printed digitally onto 2 papers: Japan Ogura Lace and Thai Mulberry, felted balls (wool from the sheep at Gale Woods Farm), thread, reclaimed (vintage) lamp shade, vintage lamp base.

Mirror, mirror, on the wall

2010-07-06T08:17:00.000-07:00

During the night one night I awoke with the memory of a frame in the garage that had no purpose at the moment. First thing the next morning I pulled it out and took a look. Despite it being dusty and bowed, with loose joints and decorative detail chipping off, I deemed it was going to work. Above you can see the end result (I'm sorry I didn't think to capture the 'before'). The frame showcases one of my Organic Digital Designs (this pattern was derived digitally from the original oil painting, The Hide Shall Seek, the Seek Shall Hide image 28/32). This was on display at my most recent exhibition at Normandale Community College in their Fine Art Gallery.

Materials include: reclaimed vintage frame, digital image printed onto metal, white gold leaf, paint, schlac, mirror

Oh, where or where have I been?!

2010-06-01T17:07:00.001-07:00

It's the first of June today - already! And I have missed photographing and sharing all that I have been up to - especially on the art level.... But the end is in site! I am in the final stages of pulling together/creating work for my upcoming show at Normandale Community College. The installation date is the 7th and I am quite excited by it all. So I continue my promise from my previous post - do check back as I will be back! Thank you so for your patience! And in the meantime, take care and happy June!

Please stay tuned....

2010-04-20T18:53:00.000-07:00

it's been a bit crazy to say the least these last weeks. You would think with all of the exciting visual tidbits around me I'd be posting like mad. I have a list a mile long of what I want to share, so please do check back. You won't be disappointed :) Thank you!

Home studio facelift

2010-03-29T05:06:00.000-07:00

For my birthday present this year, my dear sister gave me the gift of time. She assisted me with a very ambitious project - one that involved moving tons of ideas, stuff, furniture, artwork and more around and out of my home studio. We tackled 2 walls at a time over the course of a couple of days and the process was instantly gratifying! The original color I've lived with for a number of years had an overall grey feel - certainly uninspiring! Grey-ish beige was on one wall and the other 3 had a grey-ish green (the image to the left shows 'the before').

My cat, Gabe, supervised the process. He wasn't at all concerned about getting paint on his beautiful furry body.

The end result was one that we were both very happy with:

I painted

2010-03-14T18:57:00.000-07:00

and it felt sooooo good! This last month was spent on the frames (referenced previously) and I missed the smell of oil paint and bringing an image to life with my brush.

So I picked from my various paintings in progress and chose one I had started some time ago. I was inspired to paint large today and this fit the bill as it is an entire door (though the image itself is only on the lower 1/3-1/2). I'm eager to continue.....

The dining room is back to normal

2010-03-11T15:00:00.000-08:00

as I finished the hand-finishing of the last frames my dad had created for me. The show opens at the Hudson Hospital this week, with the opening on May 20th. It feels good to be on this end of the process and I have to say it is also nice to have the dining room back for it's original purpose in life. Perfect timing all around, I must say as the bug of spring has bitten....

The painting above is called Butterfly Days, inspired by 'living in the moment'. The frame is one I had posted a couple of times already (one with my cat, Gabe, in it and the other in progress).

My heart goes a flutter....

2010-03-10T18:22:00.000-08:00

not only for the Mad Hatter, but also for the complete Alice in Wonderland movie. I saw it twice this last week and was completely inspired by the world of it all. I would happily go along for the ride, if a ride was going to Wonderland. Tim Burton, the genius he is, outdid himself I'd say. Now I must reread the book.....

I've taken over the dining room....

2010-03-01T18:49:00.000-08:00

This past month our dining room has become my frame finishing area. It's perfect with the natural light that comes through the windows and I enjoy having my furry friends around supervising. Gabe has made himself comfortable above left in frame #2 as George is in the background. Above right is the finished frame. (I know it can be distracting, the middle area of the frame.... Since it will be covered up by the painting, I didn't paint it in).

Profile #3

2010-02-28T18:57:00.000-08:00

I'm particularily fond of this profile. It is one I designed after a moulding I had seen around a painting at the Chazen Museum of Art in Madison (referenced in my post on Nov. 16, 2009). This, along with the others shown, my dad created for me.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

I'm feeling the bug....

2010-02-23T17:46:00.000-08:00

Up until now I haven't had much of an urge, desire to be inspired by the seed catalogs that have come in mail. Well, that all changed when my co-worker shared the "Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds" catalog with me the other day. What a glorious catalog to behold! and one that has a story that is inspiring in all of it's own..... Oh, what to purchase... Which would be more inspiring? Would it be the Moonshadow Hyacinth Bean or the Gherkin Spiny Burr (gourd shown above)? though perhaps the Delica Thorn (also a gourd (yes, I'm a sucker for those gourds!)) would be..... Hmmmm.... such choices there are! I definitely think the Tassel Flower (aka "Flora's Paintbrush" in Victorian times) would be a nice addition to my summer bouquets... Such a decision will need to be as the greenhouse at the farm is gearing up for the season.... So stay tuned and we'll both see what sprouts :)

On a side note, I would love to travel and see the 'Seed Bank' in Petaluma, California. What an amazing place it sounds to be!!

George approved....

2010-02-21T17:16:00.000-08:00

Cake seems to be the choice of baking lately. I think I've been trying a new recipe every week. Although the name, "Everyday Yogurt Cake", sounds a bit boring, the recipe below is perfect with freshly whipped cream and seasonal fruit. See what you think :)

2 cups of flour, unbleached, all-purpose
1 1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt or lowfat yogurt
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9" round cake pan and dust it with flour, knocking out any extra. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the yogurt, oil, eggs, and vanilla in a medium mixing bowl. Pour the yogurt mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just moistened. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and bake until the top of the cake is light golden and toothpick inserted into the center is clean, about 40 minutes. Let the cake cook in the pan for about 5 minutes, invert it onto a wire rack, and then turn it right-side up on a rack to cool completely. Dust with confectioners' sugar, then slice and serve.

George, my dog, approved - he helped himself to the leftovers..... oops!

Hand-finishing frame #1

2010-02-18T18:37:00.000-08:00

Almost 34" long this frame is quite substantial. I love how it came together!

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

All 22+ pounds worth....

2010-02-14T14:59:00.000-08:00

This is one of Tilly's piglets. You'd think they would be cuddly because they are so cute, but instead they are surprisingly bristly - and especially squirmy - as you try to hold them. Right now they are gaining a bit over a pound a day!

(You can look back to my posting on January 19th, the day they were born at about 3 pounds each....)

The Wonder of Wax

2010-02-11T15:16:00.000-08:00

I realized the other day the amount of 'wax' I have going on in my art right now: the 'wax seal' signature I sign my work with, the 'cold wax medium' I use on my oil paintings over the varnish, the 'paste finishing wax' I am using on my hand-finished frames, and last, but not least, my latest exploration into the world of 'encaustic painting'. Curious at first, yet so right it feels, for my work to include this natural wonder in whatever it's form....

As you may know, beeswax is a natural wax produced in the bee hive of honey bees. It has been around and used for any number of purposes for over a thousand years. We are very fortunate these little worker bees are still around. They do more than make the world go around..... Thank you wax-making bees!!

Introducing the 'Harvest Kitchen'

2010-01-30T18:10:00.000-08:00

I completed the painting yesterday at the farm. Overall I am pleased, though it was hard to stop; I kept wanting to continue adding in detail and tweaks throughout! But thankfully there was a deadline - the scaffolding had to come down by mid-day.

Custom frames underway....

2010-01-28T18:17:00.000-08:00

I have designed 6 different frame profiles for my upcoming show ('the continuation and punctuation') at the Hudson Hospital in March. My talented father is able to take my ideas and put them into reality. I assisted him this past week in his wood shop. Now it's my turn to take the wheel and hand-finish each and every one to compliment the painting that will go inside.

Stay tuned - I plan on posting the process and progress over the course of this next month.....

Bugs, bugs and more bugs!

2010-01-22T13:17:00.000-08:00

I was recently introduced to the artwork of Christopher Marley and am completely taken with his story and that he creates art using bugs.... though actually they are art in and of themselves with all of their shapes, colors, textures and patterns (but I'm guessing he already knows this as this is most likely what has drawn him to do what he does).

Personally, I've always liked bugs (my dad built me a 'bug house' when I was little - it was where I could put all of what I had found inside a miniature world that I had planted and cared for) and I am always excited by the possibilities of coming across some strange and unknown creepy crawly when I travel. I'm always the one looking for and even wanting to touch what I come across (though perhaps not always the safest thing to do as I found out on our recent trip to Costa Rica). Regardless, I am fascinated with them and appreciate the approach Christopher has taken. Check out his link: http://www.formandpheromone.com. "Center of Focus" and "Carnivorous Plants" (both found under 'Artwork') are my favorites....

My new-found inspiration

2010-01-20T19:39:00.000-08:00

is the world of Henry Selick. Have you seen his latest film, Coraline? I just saw it and am completely enthralled with all of the details, imagery and the world within. I highly recommend seeing it! and his site is something to behold as well: www.coraline.com! You can even create your own flower (mine is to the right) in the garden (perfectly perfect to do on a cold winter day!).

Look what arrived!

2010-01-19T18:30:00.000-08:00

Today was a busy day for Tilly (not to mention for the staff) as she gave birth to 13 healthy piglets at Gale Woods Farm. 'Stan the Man', did his job (the little black piglets have his coloring)! Though she gave birth a bit earlier than expected, all fell into place. It was quite exciting! And this is just the beginning :) More piglets, lambs and chicks, oh my! will be on their way as spring draws closer..... Stay tuned :)

Acrylic painting at Work

2010-01-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

This is just the beginning of what I am working on at the farm. I'm delighted I can share my passion for paint and color with the staff and the visitors. The completed piece will showcase a medley of vegetables over the doors to the 'Harvest Kitchen'. I've started with the warmer tones and will then move onto the greens, following with the stems to all and then the banner that is overhead.

It's been quite some time since I painted exclusively with acrylics. They are so different than oil; I notice it especially with the layering of the pigments and the drying time (how quickly it dries!). Overall, it has been an extremely satisfying project - I'm eager to continue.

P.S. I couldn't help but think of my previous post (January 2nd) as I painted the onion - quite timely, I'd say....

Time is like an onion....

2010-01-02T10:33:00.000-08:00

and so it was stated in the New York Times. Okay, I admit, it wasn't actually exactly like that.... I was reading the Weekend Arts Section on New Years Day and found myself drawn to the title of an article, "Time, the Infinite Storyteller". As I am curious about 'time' and I thoroughly enjoy stories, I started reading. A couple of paragraphs into it I came across "....art is loaded and layered with different forms of time and complexly linked to the past and the present and even the future. The longer they exist the more onionlike and synaptic they become." What a perfectly appealing image I hold in my mind now! The linking of art and onion and time together as one! And curious (and so accurate!) is the idea of art depicting time in a myriad of ways....

On a similar side note: I have to say, my own paintings are made up of many layers, much like an onion and encapsulate stories from the past and the present......

The inspiration continues....

2009-12-30T10:10:00.000-08:00

and/or my fascination, shall I say? with Tim Burton. I recently came across a different website than The Tim Burton Collective. This new found site radiates what I love about his work. Check it out: http://www.timburton.com What do you think?? Perfectly wonderful, isn't it? I'm craving his imagery to all degrees lately, even ordered a 2010 calendar depicting images from his film, The Nightmare Before Christmas. Oh, did you know? March 5th is the opening day for his latest film, Alice in Wonderland. Needless to say it's on my calendar and I can hardly wait!

2009-12-27T09:51:00.000-08:00

I received this book for Christmas from my husband. A book I have been interested in reading and now that I have begun, I am excited to continue. Only having started, I am motivated to integrate the ideas/suggestions/tips from the author into my own studio/artist lifestyle. She especially caught me with "....your studio time should be your most sacred, nonnegotiable routine. Neglecting your studio is unacceptable. You're an artist and artists make art...." And I have to say I appreciate this kick in the pants approach. Thank you, Alyson Stanfield!

'Don't crowd the mushrooms!'

2009-12-19T09:47:00.000-08:00

This morning I made an omelet (with eggs from the farm) and remembered to not crowd the mushrooms. Having recently seen the movie 'Julie and Julia' where this approach to cooking mushrooms was referenced, I found myself enjoying the memories of the movie all over again as I sauteed. And I swear the mushrooms tasted differently having followed this advice!

The idea of trying a new recipe every day is somewhat inspiring to me. I love the idea (as there are so many wonderful recipes to be tried!), but I really don't think I could not make the family favorites (homemade pizza, quiches, chocolate chip cookies) either.... Though actually according to my family I'm always trying out a new recipe so maybe I'm already doing Julie's story in my own way :)

Gingerbread - Yum!

2009-12-15T10:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm very much inspired by food lately, the nuances of it all is just so pleasing! Not only to my palette but also to the conversations had around it. The gingerbread man on the farm chalkboard promoted a coworker of mine to go out and buy gingerbread cookies. And I, this last week, found a recipe for them on epicurious.com. Just in time for the holidays :)

P.S. If you were to try this recipe I recommend doubling the cinnamon, ginger, allspice and nutmeg.....

Painting companion

2009-12-06T13:40:00.000-08:00

My cat Gabe (short for Gabriel) made himself comfortable on my lap yesterday as I was painting (he seems to think I took his chair)..... A big furry bundle of love he is.....

"Intrepid Traveler"

2009-12-04T05:59:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I was able to experience the unquestioning imagination of Tim Burton at MOMA. I walked away inspired to follow the confidence in which he approached the creation of his characters and stories.

Last night, at First Thursday, I came across "Intrepid Traveler", created by local artist Susan Feigenbaum. I immediately connected with her latest piece (pulled out of the kiln at 2pm) and brought it home with me.

With both artists, the former in his exhibition of 700+ images, and with the latter, the significance of the title, I am taken with the movement of going forward in the process of life and art - in a focused manner.

Not to mention the visuals of both artists are adeptly summed up by Jean DuBeffet: "Art should make us laugh a little and be frightened a little." Just a bit more to think about.....

Seed catalog already!?

2009-11-22T07:11:00.000-08:00

I just received my first 2010 seed catalog, even though November isn't quite done. I've never heard of Pinetree Garden Seeds before - I wonder how they got my address? No worries, though, as I am delighted with the descriptions I have come across in the first few pages of their catalog. Two examples: Cheddar Cauliflower - "this unique and beautiful cauliflower is the color of cheddar cheese and retains this dramatic shade when cooked...." and Cosmic Purple (carrot) - "With a stunning shade of purple skin, this unique Danvers type carrot is a delight when harvested..... when sliced in coin-sized pieces, the inner yellow core is surrounded by orange flesh and encircled by the purple skin that will remain colorful after cooking...". What fun! Oh, to plant all of these..... what enjoyment it would be.... the inspiration of color and form, from the garden to the table!

My first trip to Madison

2009-11-16T17:16:00.000-08:00

We went to Madison, WI. this past weekend to see Max, my husband's son, who is a freshman at the University (what a neat campus!). After the football game (Badgers won) on Saturday we met up with good friends of mine from college. We spent the late afternoon with them and their daughter at the Chazen Museum of Art. In and of itself, we found the collection of work throughout the galleries to be wonderful in its variety of imagery and medium. Even more inspiring (to me) were the frames around some of the paintings. I was completely taken with their details, profiles, etc - each one was designed to extend the painting's motif or chosen to compliment. It was perfect timing for me after my conversation with Roger from Master Framers the day before (see previous day's post). I now have some ideas on how to proceed with paintings of my own.... Stay tuned :)

Artful frames

2009-11-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had an inspiring conversation with Roger Nielson, president of Master Framers located in downtown St. Paul. He had approached me during the annual fall studio event a couple of weeks ago, admiring the extension of my painting onto/into the creation of the frame that surrounds it. My painting above, Apothecary's Love Potion, is an example of this (my dad helped me create this frame, including the inner scallop-like detail that mimics the scalloping found within the painting, I then hand-finished the overall surface). Roger also expressed interest in working with me on creating frames for future paintings of mine. Such a curious idea.... as he does offer a phelthra of mouldings to choose from, not to mention the ability to add detail via carving into the surface or adding relief onto the frame's surface, all the while complimenting the painting that resides within.... The possibilities abound! To frame or not to frame is certainly not the question, but it is instead can I afford this frame?

"Time flies like...."

2009-11-13T10:56:00.000-08:00

an arrow; fruit flies like a banana." - Groucho Marx

A new-found favorite quote of mine as I am curious about the passing of time and I am intrigued by fruit flies (on a side note, I think a fun title for a painting would be: " the nose of a fruit fly" (as I think they must have a wonderful sense of smell in order to locate the source of their food!)). I also like the play on words and the sense of humor in this quote....

I rearranged....

2009-11-03T12:57:00.001-08:00

I have recently become 'smitten' with the ancient medium of painting with wax (encaustic) and have transformed my home studio to accommodate the necessities (hot plates, metal palette, torch, window ventilation etc). Please note image #3, I haven't given up painting, as you can see my chair and palette are still close by :)

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Pretty neat, huh? For additional insight on this new direction of mine, please read my latest newsletter (down on the right side, titled "I'm completely smitten...., Art Attack and More!").

End of the year resolution

2009-11-01T12:06:00.000-08:00

Why does it have to be at the beginning of the year when we make resolutions, formal or not? Therefore, I, Heidi, will promise to blog on a very regular basis. There - I did it. Both put my intention out there for all of you to see as well as 'blog' while I'm doing so (kissing two birds with one set of lips, or so to speak, as I would never want to kill two birds......).

(Granted there was a fiber arts grant to complete and a wedding to plan and a garden to plant and a honeymoon to go on these past few months.....)