living the dream

storefront artist project

2011-12-09T11:13:00.003-05:00

It's with bittersweetness, that I share this news. After ten wonderful years, the Storefront Artist Project (SAP) in Pittsfield is closing its doors stating mission accomplished. "Our mission was to fill empty storefronts and forge a community of artists, entrepreneurs, businesses and residents" says founder, Maggie Mailer. There have been many wonderful changes to Pittsfield in the decade since SAP began as an experiment with a single artist's studio that grew into a community endeavor.

This coming Monday, December 12th will be the Closing Party and Final 12x12 Event, with all proceeds going to support arts education in the Pittsfield public schools. So, if you're in the area, stop by at 6:30 PM; tickets are just $25 and in addition to celebrating a wonderful movement, you'll take a home an original piece of artwork measuring 12x12 (of course!)

Thank you Maggie Mailer for your vision!

art + community = paradise

2011-11-11T07:28:00.000-05:00

Whenever artists come together to build community, to share ideas and to collaborate, they bring a vibrancy and energy to their community that is palpable. While I've been fortunate enough to have shared in that kind of community here in the Berkshires, I'm also aware of the many ways artists can reap these benefits through online communities.

One of my favorites is the Visual Artists Street Team (VAST) through Etsy. "We are an eclectic group of artists motivated to create successful artistic shops. Our goal is to promote the extraordinary talent of artists selling on Etsy. We are excited to be able to open our doors to you and share our creative world!" Through group emails and blogging we have the opportunity to share the ups and downs of the working artist's life. We offer each other encouragement, understanding, critiques, networking opportunities, and share great tips and solutions to some of the inevitable bumps in the road.

It goes without saying really, that the blogging community is an incredible source of friendship, education, support and sharing, too. I'm thankful for the friends I've made and the generous sharing of information over the years.

Sometimes an artist's life can feel a bit lonely - working alone tucked away in a studio for hours, but through community connection, we combine the best of all worlds.

Rock It! Art Exhibit through the month of August 2011

2011-08-09T16:57:00.001-04:00

Last week George and I hung my art exhibit at the Marketplace Cafe in Pittsfield. It's a popular spot on North Street right next door to the Beacon Cinema. There you'll find live music weekly, great coffee and food plus it hosts an artist of the month - which this month is me! It's the perfect place to show my obsession with river rocks.

I’ve always had a thing for river rocks. I love how solid they feel in my hands, how their colors and textures come alive when seen underwater in a riverbed. I’ve been known to fill my pockets from time to time with as many rocks as I can hold. Are river rocks inanimate objects or are they living things? Philosophers, spiritual leaders and scientists have debated this topic throughout the ages. Some believe all matter is alive in a cosmos of perpetual metamorphosis. Are rocks sentient beings? I’ll let you decide, but I have a hunch on this one.

So if you are in the area, stop by to see more paintings in this collection,

maybe grab a bite to eat or just to hang out for a little while.

http://ourmarketplacecafe.com/

after the rain...

2011-06-12T17:35:00.008-04:00

George and I spent the afternoon wandering some of our favorite country roads gathering inspiration for spring landscape paintings. But upon returning home, it was our own perenial garden that really inspired me. I love the luciousness of spring, the many shades of green, the wildly colorful spring flowers and the intoxicating smell of earth after a rainfall (of which we've had many lately).

2011-05-22T17:26:00.003-04:00

As noted in my last post, this collage needed a few finishing touches. When I woke up yesterday morning and stumbled into my studio sans my usual cup of tea, I knew just how I wanted to finish this painting. Now it's ready to head off to its new owner.

2011-03-18T15:38:00.017-04:00

I am working on some watercolor collages that are in their final stages - but need a little "something" before they are finished. I like the idea of repurposing old paintings that aren't destined to the framing table. Sometimes you can find a wonderful piece of a painting even when the overall painting doesn't work.

Additionally, I have just finished my latest painting in the river rocks series.

It's springtime in the Berkshires, or nearly springtime and I'm off to gather some inspiration and images for a new series of paintings.

2011-03-02T21:32:00.008-05:00

Through the One World One Heart blog event, I met some fun, creative bloggers who offered random drawings as part of this event. Here are three women I'd like you to meet.

Regi, lives in Alabama and describes herself as "a free spirit, a gypsy, a hippie and a child of the sea". She wears many hats, including that of artist and designer - creating the most amazing one of a kind sculptures and jewelry. Regi is a wonderful story teller and her blog is full of delightful posts full of southern charm. I hope you'll stop over to visit her at http://southernooaks.blogspot.com/. Regi sent me her adorable creation, Shibee. He has found a sunny home in my art studio at Art on No in Pittsfield. Thank you, Regi!

The second blogger I'd like you to meet in Grace. Grace blogs from her home in Indiana where she writes "random thoughts of life and beading". You'll find an amazing variety of gorgeous beadwork displayed on Grace's blog, http://gracebeading.blogspot.com/. The photos highlight the intricate beading and is well worth a visit. These beautiful pearl earrings were the giveaway treasure from Grace's blog. Pay Grace a visit to see more beautiful beading. Thank you so much Grace! I'm wearing your lovely earrings as I write this now.

The third artist blogger I'd like you to meet is Lorrie. Lorrie is a paper artist living in Michigan. She makes vibrantly beautiful handmade paper and paper mosaics. Lorrie is also an art instructor who teaches workshops on making handmade paper, paper mosaics, mixed media and surface design. Lorrie's written several articles which are listed on her blogsite too. Visit http://lorrieabdo.blogspot.com/ to learn more. Here is the paper mosaic heart Lorrie sent me. Thank you so much Lorrie for such a visual treat. I'm putting this heart in my art studio alongside Shibee for inspiration.

congratulations Christine!

2011-02-19T18:07:00.003-05:00

Photo courtesy of Chris Schudde

I just have to give a big shout out to Christine - Whole Living Magazine's action hero for March. Check out Page 8. Not only is she an amazing daughter, she really walks the talk and has a fun and upbeat recounting of her adventures. Read more here - http://www.unspeakablevisions.blogspot.com/

and the winners are...

2011-02-17T14:05:00.001-05:00

Thank you to all those who participated in the One World One Heart global blog event this year. I've had a blast visiting you and making new friends! There are still so many folks I want to stop by to visit, so if I haven't been by yet, I intend to in the near future.

Congratulations to this year's winners! Each of you will receive a set of art cards of your choice.

Regina - http://www.southernooaks.blogspot.com/
Nicole Campanella - http://www.beadwright.blogspot.com/
Lisa Bivona - http://www.pearlavenuestudios.blogspot.com/

Wishing you all a wonderfully creative journey and hope you'll stop by to say hello again from time to time!

One World One Heart (OWOH) Global Blog Event

2011-01-31T06:32:00.010-05:00

2011 marks the fifth annual One World One Heart (OWOH) Blog Event. OWOH is the brainchild of Lisa Swifka - A Whimsical Bohemian who began this project in 2007 to build community among bloggers. Lisa says "The original idea behind this giveaway event was to bring bloggers together from around the world who may never ordinarily meet. It closes the gap of the blog community and enables us to interact, discover new and wonderful people, and in the process possibly win a prize or many prizes along the way." Very cool, right?!!

To join in the fun... Between now and February 17th bloggers from all over the world who are participating in OWOH's magical globel trek will display this image on their sidebar, indicating that they are hosting a giveaway. Just leave a comment on their blog post for a chance to win. Winners will be randomly selected on February 17th. Be sure to leave contact information, if it's not in your profile. Click here for a list of participants. If you are interested in hosting your own giveaway, click here for directions. Most importantly, make new friends and have fun!

my giveaways...

There will be two separate drawings. The first one is for my "Vibrant Flowers" art card set featuring fine art reproductions from my original watercolor paintings. This collection includes one card of each floral painting with matching envelopes.

The second drawing is for my "River Rocks" art cards, which are also fine art reproductions from my original watercolor paintings. This collection includes one card of each of the four paintings with matching envelopes.

Update 2/6/11 ~ I've added a third set of art cards to my giveaway, Pears & Apples.

Only comments left on this post will qualify for my random drawing. Winners will be announced on February 17th. So say hello and enjoy your flight!

xo,

Susan

2011-01-23T08:10:00.175-05:00

When I stopped to listen, I could hear my soul, my inner wisdom whispering - it's time for a change. It's time to let go of what isn't working to make room to try something else. And yet that part of me that doesn't want to give up, that hates quitting, stood firm. It wasn't that I hadn't dealt with a lot of change, we all have. I've taken several pretty huge risks in my life, so that wasn't really the problem either. Still, I found myself stuck for a number of months without really knowing what new direction to move in, just knowing I needed to do something differently. I'm happy to report some fun creative ideas are perculating and while I'm not sure how this is going to be expressed in my art, assuredly it will be. Stay tuned. :)

a new year and a new list of resolutions...

2011-01-05T09:08:00.003-05:00

In addition to the personal wellness resolutions I've made this year, (more yoga, exercise, healthier eating and cranking up gratitude awareness while decreasing whining) I have 3 resolutions directly related to improving my art that I'm sharing them with you. So please call me on them if/when I slip!

1. Take better photos - both for reference and of finished works. My first step was to buy a better camera, which arrived yesterday - thank you UPS for the speedy delivery. Next, learn to use it well.

2. Be more disciplined about studio time - no excuses accepted

3. Create more paintings that are either in a series or thematically cohesive

I'm thinking that reviewing these at the beginning of each month, instead of once a year, will have a positive impact on my ability to succeed.

Do you want to share your resolutions?

beloved snow queen...

2010-12-22T14:39:00.028-05:00

I wanted to share a personal Christmas story, inspiration, or piece of art to warm the holidays and to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy & Peaceful New Year. In the midst of working on this my daughter, Christine, posted a beautiful, heart-warming Christmas story about the Snow Queen and the amazing woman who brought her to life for all of us. Thank you Christine!

Read about the Snow Queen at http://www.unspeakablevisions.blogspot.com/

happiness is...

2010-11-28T17:16:00.001-05:00

living with gratitude, being thankful for all you have rather than thinking about what you don't have. Topping my list of all to be grateful for is my family. Today marks my daughter, Christine's birthday. Ok, it was 26 years ago, but while looking through my photo collection I came across this photo and couldn't resist posting it. Christine is one of those shining lights, someone who brightens the world by her presence and is truly unforgettable. What an amazing adult she has turned out to be. Happy Birthday Christine!

new works...

2010-11-17T09:25:00.001-05:00

In the last week or so I finished two mixed media paintings. I added crumpled tissue paper with gesso to create some interesting textures, used both watercolor and acrylic paint, saran wrap, colored pencils and ink. Then the paintings were sealed with two coats of varnish and gloss medium.

If you haven't experimented with mixed media painting yet, I highly recommend it. When I find myself unable to focus (in those moments where all the normal life challenges seem to gang up on me), yet my muse is calling me to do something, I usually begin a mixed media work. It transports me creatively and before long I'm immersed in a new piece of art. The best part is that there's no limit, other than your own imagination, as to what you can incorporate into your mixed media painting!

thank you veterans...

2010-11-11T10:17:00.004-05:00

With much appreciation and gratitude...thank you to all our Veterans, past, present and future! Let us never forget all those who gave up so much to protect our freedom. "All gave some, some gave all."

inspiration versus aspiration...

2010-10-31T11:36:00.000-04:00

As some of you know, I joined the "Art on No" group of artists in Pittsfield last month. I really love going there to paint, draw, think about and talk about art...but mostly to create art. Here are the promised photos. The afternoon light is splendid; the energy in my studio is extraordinary and the hours spent here make me truly happy.

Always the philosopher, I've been thinking a lot lately about what motivates us to create. Some say it's aspiring to new heights, reaching goals, but I find myself motivated more strongly by inspiration wherever I find it...in the studio, in nature, being awestruck by an image I can't seem to let go of, being in love, or dreams. What motivates you?

you blink and in an instant, your little girl has grown up...

2010-10-22T10:19:00.002-04:00

Twenty nine years ago today, my first child was born and happy doesn't even come close to describing the way I felt. Part of "living the dream" included raising children and this brought a richness to my life that I will always cherish. Today Kate is a wonderful woman, wife, sister, daughter and friend to all who know her. As much as I adored being a day-to-day mom to my little girls (and I truly did), now that they are grown and living amazing lives on their own, I love the moments we share together as friends, as family, as women who love and respect each other.

Happy Birthday, Kate!

wabi sabi...

2010-10-15T10:51:00.001-04:00

Here are my top five magazine picks of the moment. In this month's Whole Living magazine there's a wonderful article about the ancient aesthetic philosophy of wabi sabi. Wabi sabi originated from Zen Buddhism and is exemplified by the significant, yet simple tea ceremony. While finding words to define wabi sabi has been difficult throughout the ages, the philosophy is easy to grasp and appreciate.

Now I understand the link between wabi sabi and my appreciation for all that's imperfect, slightly worn, changeable and naturally beautiful. Wabi sabi influences nearly all my personal preferences. There's a link between wabi sabi and my strong attraction to nature and the natural order of things, which heavily influences my art and can be felt in my paintings. Maybe this explains why I love things that are slightly off kilter rather than the perfection that's so celebrated in the western world. In my most aware moments, I find the wabi sabi principles create a sense of freedom embracing impermanence, imperfection and what is.

Small Works Show and Open Studios

2010-10-08T08:32:00.000-04:00

New Neighbors

As some of you may remember, earlier this year I began my fascination with pagoda type families. Well, things have gotten a bit out of hand. I have just completed a series of eight paintings, three small ones and five larger ones, celebrating both family and nature. This week two small ones were juried into the Small Works Show at the Welles Gallery in Lenox, Mass.

Family Down the Street

I've also hung several in the gallery space outside my studio on North Street in Pittsfield (Art on No) hoping to share this fascination. I am headed to the studio now to begin work on a new series, definitely not rock related, but these pagoda families just tickled me. I just love rocks, what can I say?

Think Pink

2010-09-28T09:06:00.000-04:00

It's time again for the 7th Annual "Think Pink" Art Exhibit, sponsored by The Berkshire County Breast Health Team and The Storefront Artist Project. The exhibit will be at The Colonial Theatre from October 1st-10th during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

I'll be dropping off "Bloom" this evening for inclusion in the exhibit, as one of sixty artists who are participating. The opening night reception will be held this Friday, Oct. 1st from 5:30-7:30 PM. If you're in the area, it promises to be a wonderful evening.

the alchemist...

2010-08-13T14:25:00.007-04:00

“When someone makes a decision, he is really diving into a strong current that will carry him to places he had never dreamed of when he first made the decision. “ This is from one of my favorite books, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, about following your dreams.

A week ago I secured a studio/gallery space at Art on No, Pittsfield, Mass. for September 1st - a rare find that I am so excited about. After I've moved in, I will post a photo or two to share.

the dream just gets better and better...

golden moments...

2010-07-30T15:30:00.001-04:00

Was thinking about my parents today and found this photo. (What ever did we do in the days before scanning?) It was taken on such a happy day over 23 years ago. My parents were a) both alive b) looking great and c) appearing so happy. How I long for a moment like that again, but it's not to be. Dad passed on a long time ago. Mom hasn't been herself for many years and lives in a nursing home now, not recognizing any of us, but seems to be doing OK. I love this picture of my parents with my daughter, Kate, who was my sister's flower girl during her wedding. The one thing that still remains is the smile on Kate's face...could light up a room!

This reminds me how important it is to take photos along life's journey because when memories fade, people leave us, and time marches on as it inevitably will, we still have those happy moments captured for all eternity. Cherish the golden moments...and record them. :)

friday, friday....

2010-07-23T14:36:00.023-04:00

All day rain, soaking into the garden...begging me to take a trip to my favorite bookseller and settle in with a cup of tea and my back to the window. Want to join me?

...was thinking this might be a good time to exchange titles for fun summer reading. With all the non-fiction reading we do around here, I enjoy the change of pace that summer brings and dipping into something light-hearted and fun...real vacation material. What are you reading right now?

juried group show in Sheffield...

2010-07-15T17:49:00.000-04:00

If you're in the area between now and August 8th, check out the annual Housatonic Valley Art League's juried show at Dewey Hall on Route 7 in Sheffield, Mass. An artists' reception is being held tomorrow (Friday, July 16th) from 4:30-6:30.

My painting entitled "Home" will be in the exhibit along with a variety of other paintings, more representational I dare say than this bold abstract. It's the mood I was in, what can I tell you? :)

cycles...

2010-07-09T11:00:00.007-04:00

So many of my artist friends are very busy with summer shows, outdoor art festivals and all the last minute preparations that go hand in hand with that. This year I've opted for a quieter, more relaxed summer. Having had Kate's wedding to prepare for and my new part-time job to learn during the first half of this year, I found little time for painting in the past few months. As you've probably picked up on, the time I spent with my daughter, Kate, and her sister preparing for the wedding was priceless...lots of laughs, creativity, love and a few tears along the way, too.

Recently I dug this book out from my overburdened bookshelves and am sketching just for fun of it, without it being a step before painting. I used to spend time this way, but haven't for some time. It's pure fun and summertime is the perfect time to enjoy some of the simple pleasures that nourish our souls.

Summer is such a short, but glorious season here and I want to enjoy every moment of it. Oh, and I haven't given up on painting, not by a long shot, just taking it slow and enjoying the summer!

How are you spending your summer this year?

the rolling hills...

2010-06-18T13:44:00.005-04:00

It's a beautiful summer's day here in the Berkshires. A perfect day to seek out waterfalls, go hiking, biking, or canoeing. Maybe you'd rather grab your favorite book, sit on the porch and sip lemonade. Whatever your pleasure, today just begs one to go outside to play or PAINT. That's where I'm headed!

a big shout out to Christine!

2010-06-15T07:16:00.001-04:00

Just thought I'd take another moment to bask in the glow of being a proud mama. Daughter, Christine, shines as a local CREATIVE in this soon to be released design book featuring one of her lunch bag designs. Christine really is an amazing indie artisan and you can find more of her creations at Christine's Etsy Shop.

Well done, Christine!

the big event arrived...

2010-06-09T16:41:00.004-04:00

Kate and Joe have been married for four days now. The wedding was truly lovely and the bride and groom's happiness was palpable. Surrounded by friends and family they said their vows and celebrated the night away. These are two of the most compatible, good hearted people you'd ever want to meet and I couldn't be happier for them!

This past week we made bouquets, centerpieces, boutonnieres, programs, place cards, favors and a lot of memories together in the process. There's always one little detail that provides a challenge and this wedding was no exception. A big thank you to everyone who helped make this event so special, especially her maid of honor and sister, Christine. Kate said she had the wedding of her dreams and couldn't imagine anything more perfect - it doesn't get better than that for a mom.

May they always be this much in love!

to be a mom...

2010-05-09T09:34:00.004-04:00

kate, christine and i

If I had to choose just one thing I wanted most in the world to be, it would be the opportunity to be a mom. I have been blessed with two incredible daughters, Kate and Christine. They light up my life in ways both large and small. I love being their mom and have shared their growing up years with a number of incredible other moms including my former mother-in-law, Mary, my Aunt Mil, my sister, Molly and my sister-in-law, Elaine.

I know being a great mom was paramount to Elaine. She raised three wonderful children, Lily, Lucy and Noah. Elaine helped me to be the best mother I could be by sharing her love, wisdom and wicked sense of humor. "Aunt Nickles" the kids called her. The countless lazy days by the pool, great conversations, and home cooked dinners we shared together are the moments I think about today and will always treasure. Elaine died last week. I dedicate this post to her and to all the really great moms in the world.

Thank you!

food for thought...

2010-05-05T16:24:00.004-04:00

"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage."

- anais nin

series in progress...

2010-04-21T16:59:00.004-04:00

I have recently started a new part time job and for the moment I've cut back on the time I'm devoting to painting. In addition, preparations for Kate's wedding is front and center in my thoughts these days, too. (only 45 days until the big event)

Still I always think about art and painting, noticing the play of light on an object or some outrageous colors at sunset or daydreaming about the next step in a painting that's perculating. Here are three paintings in a series of eight "pagoda families" that I'm working on. I will be adding backgrounds and developing more depth in the individual rocks through glazing. I think these will particularly appeal to the naturalists among us. My husband and I frequently build our own little pagodas while we hike in the woods. All over Berkshire County you will find them, near a stream, on top of a log, sitting in small gatherings...

a springtime wedding...

2010-03-18T15:52:00.007-04:00

My daughter, Kate, is marrying Joey on June 5th and we've been all a buzz with wedding plans, and DIY ideas to create a truly special day that has their personal stamp on it. My other daughter, Christine, is the maid of honor. So we've put all our collective creativity together and are spinning a delightful wedding season, full of parties and events to celebrate this special couple. Kate is doing an amazing job coordinating the dozens of details and somehow makes it look effortless, while I know it is anything but that. This is one amazing springtime for us all. Our little family is expanding!

today's inspiration...

2010-03-05T11:02:00.007-05:00

"Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside dreams, who looks inside awakens." - Carl Jung

2010-02-24T11:31:00.003-05:00

In addition to meeting some wonderful creatives through the OWOH blog event, I am the lucky recipient of three wonderful giveaways. Thank you Cory, Lisa and Julie!

I love the bracelet Cory Celaya sent me! It's gorgeous and so uniquely designed. As a matter of fact, I am wearing it as I write this. Cory's work is truly amazing. Definitely pop over to her website. She also has two great blogs Art with Moxie and Create with Moxie to check out. In addition to creating unique one-of-a-kind jewelry, Cory also produces wonderful mixed media art, which really blows me away. Thank you again, Cory!

Lisa Atchison sent me the most gorgeous lampwork bead and opened up a whole new world of art to appreciate. I have never seen anything like this before; it's just stunning! Above are three views of the same bead; depending on which way you hold the bead, you see a different view - really beautiful! Visit Lisa's blog at Touch of Glass Designs and her website to see more of her gorgeous beads and learn more about her art. Thank you so much, Lisa!

My third giveaway gift came from Julie Gazin, who sent me a lovely crocheted towel and her Butterfly Garden foam hand soap. Among Julie's creations are crocheted items, soy candles, lotions, soaps, original artwork, prints and more. You'll want to check out Julie's huge variety of creations by visiting her website and blog. Many thanks, Julie!

OWOH giveaway winners are...

2010-02-15T13:58:00.006-05:00

Alice Stroppel from Florida - "Pocket of Shells" watercolor

Flor Larios from Miami, Florida - "Pears & Apples" art cards

Kate Clawson from Pennsylvania - "Vibrant Flowers" art cards

Thanks to everyone who participated in this year's OWOH blog event. I've had so much fun and have met such incredible creative people! Let's keep in touch :)

additional giveaway item for One World One Heart...

2010-02-11T07:16:00.001-05:00

Thank you for visiting my blog and leaving your lovely comments! I have added another item to be given away with the orginal two items in the One World One Heart international blog event to show my appreciation.

This third drawing is for my "Vibrant Flowers" art card set created from my original watercolor paintings.The set includes four 4.25" x 5.5" blank cards printed on premium matte paper with matching envelopes.

This is my first year and I am having such a blast - thank you, Lisa!

One World One Heart 4th Annual Global Blog Event

2010-01-28T11:06:00.010-05:00

I just learned about a really fun way to get to know other bloggers from Stacey and I am so excited to share it with you. One World One Heart (OWOH) is the brainchild of Lisa Swifka - A Whimsical Bohemian who began this project in 2007 to build community among bloggers. Lisa says "The original idea behind this giveaway event was to bring bloggers together from around the world who may never ordinarily meet. It closes the gap of the blog community and enables us to interact, discover new and wonderful people, and in the process possibly win a prize or many prizes along the way." Very cool, right?!!

To join in the fun... Between now and February 15th bloggers from all over the world who are participating in OWOH's Magic Carpet Ride will display their "ticket" on their sidebar which indicates they are hosting a giveaway. Just leave a comment on their blogpost for a chance to win. Winners will be randomly selected on February 15th. Be sure to leave contact information if it's not in your profile. Click here for a list of participants. If you are interested in hosting your own giveaway, click here for directions. Most importantly, make new friends and have fun!

My giveaways...

There will be two separate drawings. The first is for "Pocket of Shells" - a lovely little watercolor painting I created in 2008. It measures 5"x7" and is matted to 8"x10".

The second drawing is for my "Pears & Apples" art card set created from my original watercolor paintings. The set includes four 4.25" x 5.5" blank cards printed on premium matte paper with matching envelopes.

Only comments left on this post will qualify for my random drawing. Your comment must be left before 1 a.m. (EST) on 2/15.

Might I recommend a super fun stop on the Magic Carpet Ride at my daughter, Christine's blog, ticket holder #801...

Craft Hope for Haiti

2010-01-27T16:31:00.013-05:00

Through my daughter, Christine , I learned of an opportunity to contribute to relief efforts in Haiti through Craft Hope, an organization with a rich history of connecting artists and artisans with people in need. Craft Hope has opened an Etsy shop featuring donations from crafters and artists from all over the world with 100% of the proceeds from these donations going to Doctors Without Borders. I was happy to have an opportunity to donate this painting, which surprisingly has already sold. Or maybe not so suprisingly, as 1,540 sales have already been recorded thanks to the many wonderful people wanting to contribute to this cause.

Why not stop by the Craft Hope Etsy Shop to check out the many beautiful items for sale? If you'd like to donate an item yourself, contact Craft Hope. It's amazing what the art and craft community can do collectively!

"It is our hope to combine our love for crafting and desire to help others into a project to make a difference around the world." ~Craft Hope

purple for Mary Kate

2010-01-13T08:12:00.007-05:00

I have a dear cousin who loves all things purple. I mean she really loves them! I'd been working on this painting on and off for a while but without real inspiration. Then I thought of her and it became really easy to finish this piece. There are times when I'm painting when I just need a little inspiration in the form of where a painting might be headed, what would I like to do with it or where it might hang to help me complete it. For you, Mary Kate...

embracing the new year

2010-01-07T09:38:00.015-05:00

Each year I start out enthusiastically embracing new ideas, projects and plans for growth. This year is no exception and here is just a sampling of what I'm setting my intentions on:

living more consciously making steady progress on a greener lifestyle restarting my yoga practice growing my art business and being more daring! (this one borrowed from Christine http://unspeakablevisions.com/)

There is so much I'm looking forward to this year. My daughter, Kate is marrying Joey - losts of festivities. I will be finding a day job and looking forward to whatever that new adventure may turn out to be. I have oodles of new art projects and things to explore. And I'm looking forward to lots of good times with family and friends!

What are your hopes, intentions and dreams for 2010?

happy holidays!

2009-12-23T09:09:00.012-05:00

I love this time of year and all the goodness that it brings out in people. Amidst your hustling and bustling, remember to thank and hug the people in your life who enrich you and celebrate life with you, the ones you love and the ones you try to love despite the messiness of being human (or maybe because of it).

Thank you, dear readers, for checking out my blog and making me feel welcome in the online art community. I look forward to sharing a creative and inspiring New Year with you.

Wishing you and your families a very happy holiday season!

blessings,

Susan

new group of artists...

2009-12-19T06:48:00.005-05:00

There's a wonderful new group of artists who have come together through Etsy's WMASS (western Massachusetts) Street Team to share ideas, to market, build community and work together called Artisans of Western Mass. I have joined the team and am looking forward to participating in events in the near future. If you have a moment, please check us out.

http://artisansofwmass.com/artisans.html

beyond...

2009-11-24T08:52:00.005-05:00

This painting is one of my favorites entitled "Beyond". I painted the background in watercolor creating a landscape that didn't really work for me as a finished project. I leaned the painting up against an easel and went on with other work. But this painting kept calling to me so I couldn't put it away. A couple of weeks later I finally heard its message telling me what was needed. I used acrylics to add trees and loved the result. Over the past year I've been experimenting with combining different aquamedia and am quite happy with the results. I like the multidimensional quality, the layers that have transparency underneath and then more defined shapes on top. The painting was lightly varnished when it was finished creating an interesting effect overall. I chose the title "Beyond" and will let the viewers decide what it means to them.

On another note....wishing you and your families a very happy Thanksgiving day!

holiday show ideas...

2009-11-13T09:47:00.008-05:00

Last week my car was totalled when someone ran a stop sign and t-boned me, the furnace stopped working (after-hours on Friday night) and all week I had been dreading the surgery that I had this week (which really was a piece of cake, the dreading it was the hard part) and now it's Friday and the dust has settled. I am thrilled to be getting back to painting and art-related business again. So, while last week didn't result in much artmaking, it was pretty good for perculating ideas for the two holiday shows I'm doing in December.

I already have a good collection of watercolors and mixed media paintings to offer, and I'm working to finish up a few smaller pieces as well. I also have some really lovely art cards made from original paintings, but I want to add some more small items to tempt the buyer who isn't shopping for paintings this holiday season (weird I know, but there are a few folks out there in this category - and you know who you are) but who still enjoy original art.

I took out my pile of "banned" paintings that have beautiful parts, but don't really work as a whole. I usually save them to use in collages and mixed media paintings. I have decided to use some beautiful snipets to make holiday ornaments, covers for journals and bookmarks. I will add paint, ink and other bits to them, maybe even add a poem to the bookmarks, and see where the spirit takes me on this project. I'll post a photo of the finished project later. If you are looking for a few small items to add to your own booth this holiday season, maybe you have some paintings that can be recycled, too. Do you have any ideas to share?

loving November...

2009-11-02T09:24:00.047-05:00

Despite the trees dropping their leaves, having to wear multiple layers of clothing to keep warm, and the shrinking hours of daylight, I really like November. November can be a pretty gray month here in the Berkshires, but on a day like today with the sun shining and leaves swirling about, it's pretty fantastic. I'm more tuned into hearth and home thinking about holidays, family and friends and long walks in the woods. Plus it's a time to really focus on gratitude with Thanksgiving around the corner. It's a good time to compile or revise one's list of things to be grateful for. I am blessed and want to bring an attitude of gratitude to my days in a more focused way. It's easy to get caught up in life's problems and concerns. I've certainly done my share of that lately, but focusing on gratitude will only make life more joy-filled!

I'm adding to my long list of things I'm grateful for the recent shipment I've just received of new paints and watercolor paper. I just love opening a new tube of paint! Today I'm working on some winter landscapes to be hung at the Inn at Stockbridge, but it's definitely a day to make time for a walk among the dancing leaves this afternoon.

What are you grateful for?

2009-10-26T08:03:00.009-04:00

It seems I've come to a little fork in the road. It's not one of those huge life decisions; I'm just trying to determine the next step I want to take artistically. Don't we all have these moments? And over and over again, just when we think we've settled on a path, something sparks inside us that asks us to throw the cards up in the air to see where they land this time. Or at least that's what it's feeling like for me right now. I love painting my mixed media pieces while at the same time I've sold many more watercolor paintings, so maybe I should create a larger body of watercolor work. Add to that the fact that it's getting close to the holidays and I know I could make some cash if I make more cards, holiday related items, and little things like bookmarks from original paintings. So, it's all swirling around in my head... Philosophically it seems sound to just keep painting what I love painting without any detours, but pragmatically it would be nice to make some cash right about now. Is this just a matter of balance or do you feel more driven to keep painting what you love painting? What are your thoughts? Do you struggle with this as well? Blessings on the journey!

2009-10-02T10:41:00.006-04:00

I've spoken of illuminating moments in one's life as a real inspirational, motivational force to do something better, in this case it's art and loving - but not necessarily in that order. For me it was a pre-admittance test for a minor surgical procedure that got my attention. Something didn't turn out quite the way it should have on one of the tests and it gave me a moment's pause, OK maybe alarm would be more accurate. But after some reflection, it really is a pause. We have those moments of pause all the time. Usually we are too rushed, busy or distracted to pay much attention. Today it's different though, I'm feeling more loving and grateful for what I've been blessed with than anything else - for those people in my life I love, for the new day's dawn, for all that's left to explore. That transfers to making art, too. I feel a spaciousness, an openness, a no-rules kind of painting day coming on. It really is the journey that counts most, the moment by moment living and loving. Happy Friday!

first hint of autumn...

2009-09-11T16:25:00.013-04:00

While there's only a hint of autumn in the air, it's here. The temperature has taken a nose dive, which isn't all that remarkable given the cool, wet summer we've had. However, the golden greens are beginning to replace the lush, deep greens of summer and the first New England patches of reds and oranges can be seen pretty much anywhere you look. Sure maybe it's just a tad here and there....but every day there's a little bit more.

I'm partial to this time of year and September is one of my favorite months. I look forward to the crispness of the season. I love the scent from our apple tree as apples drop to the appreciation of the rabbits, squirrels, woodchucks and deer. I feel better about the rascals eating the fallen apples than all the flowers they consumed this summer. My garden has patches of stems without petals...nice!

Autumn brings great inspiration to painting in the Berkshires. In the following weeks there will be glorious patches of colors mingling with pines. This is my first of several autumn landscapes this year. I will be painting some abstractions to express the beauty of the season here in Berkshire County as well.

love of experimenting...

2009-08-16T10:37:00.014-04:00

It's been a super busy summer and I was craving some down time to experiment and create without a goal, but wasn't finding the time to do so. All summer I've been working on pieces promised to different venues and a couple of commissions. I'm not complaining mind you, but I really wanted a little bit of "play time" to recharge. My husband gave me the perfect birthday present of a mixed media workshop with one of my favorite teachers, http://pathogan.com/. Well I had a blast, met some wonderful people and created solidly for two straight days with no goal in site. What a wonderful breather it was. I started a number of workshop projects, none of which I've finished, but the pure fun of the weekend will stay with me for a long time to come. This is a piece I've been working on. I'm not sure it will end up anywhere but in my studio pile o' stuff, but the freedom it represents is pure bliss.

thought for the day....

2009-07-23T09:58:00.002-04:00

“The more I think about it,

the more I realize

there is nothing more artistic

than to love others.”

– Vincent Van Gogh

gratitude...

2009-07-20T08:26:00.011-04:00

I started painting almost three years ago and since then I have conversed with some very talented and generous artists who have shared their wisdom, trials and insight with me. It's within this giving community that art flourishes, friendships form, and creativity spirals. I am full of gratitude to those who have shared with me. It is in this spirit that I try to pass on to others anything I've gleaned that might be of some help or inspiration.

There are some people I'll thank in person (and you know who you are), but I'd also like to thank an online community I joined a few months ago called Visual Artists Street Team (VAST) - an Etsy group. There are so many wonderful artists and generous souls in this group. Many VAST artists share their thoughts, offer support and inspire one to keep things in perspective. The actual technical and creative information shared among VASTies is significant. This has also put me in touch with some wonderful artists' blogs which are inspirational, educational, and entertaining - sometimes all in one blog. Especially as an emerging artist, always full of questions and ponderings, I am sincerely grateful to belong to this group of spirited and talented artists! Thank you all!

taking time to smell the flowers...

2009-06-23T09:35:00.020-04:00

In celebrating spring and moving into summer now, I've taken some time to really look and smell the flowers and what I've found is that I'm even more drawn to them this year. The way the wind softly blows through them (or rips through them as it sometimes does here in the Berkshires) I'm enjoying the movement of flowers. It's something I hadn't really paid attention to before. Maybe it has something to do with how much more time I'm devoting to gardening this year. In addition to my flower beds, we've added a vegetable garden this year with raised beds. At any rate, drawing and painting flowers and vegetables has become interesting to me when I think of them as living things, rather than still life material. I love the opportunity to really study them. I'm concentrating on developing my skills to bring this sense of movement and aliveness to my painting.

simplicity...

2009-06-05T07:24:00.010-04:00

I'm working on supplying a local inn with paintings; they are interested in simplicity and expressions of the every day in a new way. That in turn is bringing me back to a simpler time in my own art making. Lately I've been focused on mixed media pieces with a lot going on and bright colors. However, creating the simpler paintings like this one, had a calming effect on me in the last week. While I don't think I'll linger here too long, it's been a nice week of painting. It's interesting how subject matter, color and design effect us while we are creating art. The emotions stirred up during the creative process end up reflected back into the artwork. It's all a cycle I guess and one of the beautiful things about making art. I learn more about myself through my paintings every day. Here's to experimenting!

2009-05-07T10:02:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I hung my first solo show of 17 paintings in Pittsfield. Thank you to my family and friends for all the support and encouragement along the way. Also a big thanks to Ali and Annie for helping me create a beautiful layout in your gallery space. Already today my head is swimming with ideas for my next art project. Loving the journey!

always the questions...

2009-04-13T11:29:00.012-04:00

Where does inspiration come from? How does sun light up a shape, draw attention to a tiny speck, bring energy and brillance to a scene? Where does a strong line need to set off something that moves us? What color does that emotion evoke? But beyond all that is how the source is speaking to us....what inner place is being coaxed forward? What piece of me goes into this painting? What can I inspire in others? I love how closely life, love and art are dancing in my life right now. What inspires You? Other news.... my husand surprised me with the opportunity to hear the Dali Lama speak next month. I can't tell you how excited I am about THAT. Talk about spirituality and art intermingling... what great opportunities lie ahead to explore this more fully.

the journey

2009-03-31T08:09:00.008-04:00

The link between love and art seems quite clear to me....love of life, people, places and adventures - all the experiences of a lifetime provide such rich material from which to craft art. I'll share the journey with you and hope to hear about your journeys as well. I have enjoyed creating and designing all my life, but it's only been in the past few years as I've turned my attention to drawing and painting that my passion for making art has taken me in a totally new direction. Whatever ignites that kind of a passion in a person must be all good, right? Illuminations....illuminating.... art is life life is art