Sunday, February 23, 2014

A GIFT

The Gift


My friend Danni, a fellow artist, is 'scaling down'.  This gentle euphemism denies the heart-wrenching truth of leaving a well-loved home, and all the space and storage previously had to practice her art.

From a purpose-built free-standing (and gorgeous) studio, Danni is now reduced to a small space in her new retirement village home.  Mind you, the house is an average three-bedroom sized house, so to many it would be quite adequate.  It's just that, after her beloved studio, well... it's not the same.

In the process Danni has been divesting herself of the accumulated 'bits and pieces' previously collected, or made, to enhance her art practice.  The lucky recipient of a box of these treasures was ME!!!!!

Above is a collage in which I've used some of Danni's 'bits'....the 'robe' (stained tissue on a wooden skewer), and a rusted piece from an old café umbrella.  I've added some handwriting that accompanied a gift to me from a fellow blogger, and some copper paint.

This collage is now framed and is intended as a housewarming and thank you gift for her new home. Her box of 'bits' is busily inspiring my collages...and will do so for quite a while.

THANK YOU DANNI!



14 comments:

  1. What a special gift! I love what you have done with the scraps. I try to scale back every day, but I think my "good stuff" is multiplying. I hope I never have to move. I once moved to Mackinac Island with a few trunks and boxes...but, that's another story. Keep arting, your work is always inspiring.
    Beth

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  2. Jo - you are a marvel and a lovely soul to boot!! I am sure everytime Danni sees this piece she will know her 'bit's have gone to a good home - hopefully though she will find some space in her new spot to create as well - I am not sure an artist should ever give up her practice - it is part of your blood really!! Cheers to you both!!!

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  3. I actually pity your friend. I have NO idea what I would do if I were forced out of my home where I make my art and into a retirement community. But I LOVE the piece you made with "hand-me-downs" from Danni's collection of art fodder. This is stunning, and I'm sure will be well received, too. You are such a sweetie to do this for her, too.

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  4. Poor Dani. I'm dreading the day we move to a smaller place with no studio.
    She'll love your gift. So thoughtful and clever, Jo.
    Nice to catch up with you.

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  5. I feel for your friend and hope she finds comfort and joy in the wonderful piece you've made

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  6. this is a brilliant collage Jo and there isn't a nicer way to thank her than with such a beautiful piece by you!

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  7. What a thoughtful gift! It's hard to give up space that you use all the time though I'm sure she'll get used to her new digs. Beautiful collage (as usual!)

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  8. This is beautiful and such a special gift. I know about the downsizing experience. We did that five years ago almost, and my studio had been our 2-car garage, that was completely closed in, lighted, and air conditioned. I had a ton of stuff to get rid of before our move, so I had all of my artist friends come by and take what they wanted of a big collection of materials. Some of it went to a local university. Where I am now isn't that much smaller, but it was time to divest, and it felt good.

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  9. Whoop whoop! I completely liked your gift! Initially someone requested me where I get the headscarf transformed into a lengthy, complex response as I tried to describe the whole thing!

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  10. Sorry to hear your friend is not happy, but what a wonderful treasure box. I know you will make great use of it. xox

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  11. Such a beautiful piece of memories for your friend. It has such a subtle elegance to it. She will be thrilled.
    And you are so sweet!!

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  12. What a wonderful gift from your friend, and what a wonderful gift you're giving back. Poignant story.

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  13. I can only imagine your friends delight in receiving your most thoughtful AND wonderful gift dear Jo!
    The inclusion of the handwriting is a very special touch to what you've created ♥
    oxo

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