Jo Murray - Art

RUST IS THE NEW BLACK

2012-03-01T08:45:00.000+10:00

How often do we hear during the latest fashion season that a certain colour is 'the new black'? Well, in my book there are trends in art too, and 'rust' is the new black. So many artists use rust in their work... rusted metal, rust-dyed fabric, rust on paper.

In my travels around the net I have come across some stunning work using rust. Perhaps you'd like to see some too....

Of course many people use the rusty metal to make sculptures like these:
Daniella Woolf uses rust on lots of her work but I particularly like this wire sculpture, a collaboration with Lynda Watson ...

Love Child 1, 2008
Steel Wire
24" x 24" x 48"

... and Barry Smith, who makes outdoor sculptures for small spaces (as well as HEAPS of other fabulous stuff). Don't you just love the way this piece frames the view?

... and particluarly my mate Kim Schoenberger who always seems to crop up when I'm admiring other artists' work.... ( I just love her small works... there's always a place for just ONE more)...

The Squeeze 2011 - H18cm x W 16cm x D 5.5cm

But, what about people who dye fabric with rust?.... like LuAnn Kessi who uses her exquisite pieces for quilts...

Noela Mills makes extraordinary fabric books, among her many talents.

rust dyed and shellaced satin book.

.. and I really like the people who add rust to paper for their art. This work I found on Flickr by Moo2Me. I can find no other information on this artist...sorry... but the work certainly has a voice of its own.

Flow

Rust Print, on gesso onpaper, 2009
Moo2Me

Chris Drury is an English artist using rust...

Chris Drury (b. 1948)
English
High Desert Wind, 2004
Map of the Leh area of Ladakh
Inkjet print over a pattern from a diagram of a cross-section of the human heart, rust on paper
54-1/3” x 40-15/16”

In fact there's a whole website dedicated to RUST PAINTING.

One of the painters that can be seen there is Sean Healy

Waiting On The Sea - Sean Healy

It's all so inspiring that I've decided to give it a go too.

Here are my potential dyeing materials....

Interesting how I arranged that... only just noticed how artistic it is.

...and the results on a textured white pillowcase I bought for 50c at a yard sale.

Lots of stuff for collaging ....yippee !!... and the back of the pillowcase is just as good. You'll see bits of this iin some work soon.... well, sometime in the future.

There's lots of info about rust dying HERE where there is also a warning !!! Wear a mask and gloves when dealing with natural rust: "Iron in this form wants to bind with your hemoglobin blocking all available sites for oxygen, .... You can become gravely ill from too much contact with raw iron products"

ENJOY!!!!

...AND, while I have you here... am still looking for another 'Pay It Forward' participant. Robyn, has a mini-collage ATC on the way, and Mieke a handmade pendant. See previous post.

A Small Art Swap

2012-02-27T05:41:00.000+10:00

A Face At The Window - Collage

PAY IT FORWARD 2012

This was started by Erin of Art-Is-Try.

I found out about Erin's project from Andria ofDrawing Near and thought it an easy and fun thing to do.

If you would like to participate, please leave a comment on this post. The first three people to commit to the project will receive a handmade gift from me!
Post this project on your own blog—feel free to cut n’ paste. Gather three new participants and be willing / prepared to follow through with the “Pay It Forward” part!!! Please link back to this original post, and I, in turn, will include a link to your post so that we can follow the project from its origin.
E-mail me with your full name and address, and I will send a small, simple, heartfelt, handmade gift. In turn, you will give small, simple, heartfelt, handmade gifts to your participants. Let the joy grow exponentially!
If you are interested in participating but are not one of the first three to comment on this post, come back after I have listed my three participants here, click on one of their links and sign up under them (or if they are full, click on their links etc etc etc until you find one)!

*NOTE*-any and all handmade gifts are okay! Try to keep them small, and heartfelt. A small painting, poem, collage, etc, but with a touch of your own personal heart and creative side! There is also no time limit , but I would hope they would all be made/given in a timely matter. As long as you make some kind of agreement with your gift-receivers, your deadline should be up to you…

So, to help clarify, here is an example to follow: I commented on Andria's blog, so Andria will send me a gift. I am posting the project on my blog so I am waiting for 3 comments. When I get them, I will send 3 gifts. Those people will post to their blogs, and send out 3 gifts of their own! I hope that makes sense, but if not, feel free to email me at jo.murray.art@gmail.com with any questions, or visit Erin at her blog.

I look forward to seeing who will be my three participants. I just love the idea of so many handmade gems travelling around the world.

I expect I will send Artist Trading Cards to my participants, or perhaps some earrings, or a collage, or even a glass pendant? If you have a preference, mention it in your comment.

In The Picture - February Challenge

2012-02-24T04:38:00.000+10:00

In The Picture has made February's theme is 'write on !'. I've had to add words of some kind to my self portrait.

It's hard enough to figure out how to take your own photo, let alone add writing! However it's amazing what you can do with 'smoke and mirrors' as they say.

Here's my offering:

I photographed my hand with lots of my homemade jewellery, and one of Fiona's pebbles, then photoshopped my face into the background.

I'm getting quite good at looking into my own camera and pressing the button. Hooray for digital cameras!... you can delete all the crook ones.

Unable to leave well enough alone I began playing around with distortion of various kinds and like this one best:

That was using the 'Polar' distortion tool, but 'Sphere' distortion is interesting too...

I can't leave Photoshop alone! Wonder if someone will start a "Photoshoppers Anonymous" in the future.

A Letter A Week

2012-02-20T05:36:00.002+10:00

It seems that when I revert to painting larger works I neglect my blog. This is probably because it takes much longer to get a worthwhile result on a large canvas than on small pieces of paper. That said, I have two works 'in progress' that will be posted very soon.

Meanwhile I still have my ALAW project, and a couple of others, in the pipeline so here are February's letters...

It's worth having a look at everyone's wonderful creative letters, so click HERE to visit.

Back to the easel......

Matisse - Drawing Life

2012-02-12T06:08:00.000+10:00

GOMA is showing the most amazing and comprehensive exhibition of drawings by Matisse and I was fortunate enough to go with our local Regional Gallery group to see it.

I didn't realise that Matisse did so many drawings of each subject that he painted. He drew and drew and drew it until he was happy with the composition, sometimes dozens of times.

When drawing for drawing's sake his goal was to use as few lines as possible, simplifying to the extreme. I love this concept.

If only this was easy easy as it looks!!!

Well, information about Matisse and his work is readily available in books but what about Yayoi Kusama ? A totally new artist to me, I found her work totally absorbing in so many senses.

In this exhibition, running concurrently with Matisse, she has employed colour and spots to transform an ordinary space into an "Obliteration Room"

It was mindblowing! I felt that I was standing in an optical illusion... perhaps because I was.

All Yayoi's other work is as fascinating, and colourful.

Think this looks small? I could walk through that space without bending in the slightest.

This marvellous flower is HUGE...... (you can see the floor and ceiling of the room)

If you ever have the chance to see this... do! I loved it.

A vote of confidence...

2012-02-07T05:05:00.000+10:00

Thank you Laurie of ' When The Bough Breaks' for nominating me for the Liebster Award. This is the second I've received in a year, so I must be doing something right. It's nice to know that you wonderful people in Blogland read and enjoy my blog.

As for Laurie... you just have to check out her gorgeous birds.

Who knows where The Liebster Blog Award originated? It is meant to showcase those who have fewer than 200 followers. (Liebster means "favourite" or "dearest" in German.) This is done in the spirit of pay-it-forward. In accepting this award, the recipient agrees to:

• Thank the person that gave them the award and link back to their blog
• Copy and paste the award to their blog
• Reveal the 5 blogs they have chosen to award and let them know by commenting on their blog

For those I am about to award, I should also point out there is no obligation to continue this award. If this is not your cup of tea, don’t worry.

1. David at David Weir Art

His work is superb!!! Everyone should follow this blog

2. Jann at '..with an artist's hand'.

Beautiful encaustic works.

3. Terrie at Creative Explorer

Because she is willing to try new things, and excels at them.

4. Granny Annie at The Whimsey Asylum

How I love what she does with digital art.

5. Steve Specht at Collagist.
A great inspiration to me.

Hope you enjoy visiting these talented people as much as I do. Isn't blogging fun!

Art Shows...and having fun

2012-02-06T12:53:00.000+10:00

No posts for a week! Guess I've been out and about too much. Several friends have been having exhibitions so I just had to go to all the openings.

'More Than Enough' - Victoria Fitzpatrick

Victoria has had exhibitions in two galleries... Rosebed St Gallery, and Noosa Regional Gallery.

At Noosa she is showing together with Kym Barrett, whose work I bought at another opening at Studio 4 Gallery.

'First Light' - Kym Barrett

Here I am with Victoria at her opening at Noosa

Next lot to have an opening were friends from Aileen Shaw's painting group - Marianne Reardon, Philippa Hume, Ellie Anderson, and Noni Metzler (sorry, no links).

Marianne, Noni, Ellie, and Philippa at Gympie

Aileen and I went to Gympie Regional Gallery for this event. It's about one hour's drive from here so we made a real day of it and arranged to lunch with two of Aileen's friends from that area.

At McCafe there was a very talented girl doing face-painting (for the children) so of course we could not resist lining up to get ours done. What a hoot!

Maree, Shirley, Aileen, and me

Don't you think we all looked great! We were quite a hit at the opening.

COLLECTING ART ...

2012-01-30T03:47:00.000+10:00

During the past year I've collected all sorts of great pieces from artist friends. I swapped, purchased, won, and was given, all sorts of creative works for my collection so thought I'd share some with you. These are generally from 'local' artists I regard as friends, and whose work I admire.

Exceptions first, I don't really know this first artist, Joshua, aged 7 yrs, but I did meet him at the exhibition where his work was shown. I couldn't resist purchasing this engaging painting. From my point of view people do a lot of 'brush mileage' to get to be as spontaneous this. If I was to try a painting of the Emergency Services vehicle I could not have done a better job. Clever Josh.

It holds up well in the company of many older and much more experienced artists on my walls.

Kim Schoenberger is a great friend, and I'm sure I'm her number one fan. The piece below, now on my deck wall, was a swap at the COMA Xmas party, but I occasionally find her small pieces irresistible and have bought several.

Purchased from a COMA exhibition, and made from recycled vintage rubber stamps and scrabble tiles, This piece of Kim's is on my bookcase and reminds me to do all these things regularly.

My barbecue table features this gorgeous plate, much admired by visiting friends.

Kim is multi-talented indeed!

Wendy Epp is a prizewinning local artist. I purchased this small piece, 18 x 12 cm, at her recent solo exhibition. Unfortunately she doesn't have a web presence so I can't show you more.

I just LOVE Barry Smith's leaves. I bought the large leaf and, on a separate occasion, he gave me the smaller one. Thanks Barry. I can't wait to get my hands on some tiny ones for earrings.

Speaking of earrings, Barry (above) and Noela Mills collaborate to produce BAZOLA jewellery. My latest purchase was made from a silverplated trophy cup that I found at the dump.

Gorgeous aren't they?

I admire Noela's many talents, and her workshops are always worth attending. I managed to score one of her works in the 13th International Collage Exchange.

Lucky me.

Another prizewinning local artist is Kym Barrett. I love her freedom of expression. This piece was my most recent purchase.

It's only small... but I LOVE it.

COMA functions are always a source of interesting art. It's a talented group, and I'm honoured to be part of it. We had a sell and/or swap Xmas gathering. Great fun and I managed to swap with Wendy Van Der Drift, coming home with this gem.

Last.... but definitely not least... is the gift from my old, old, friend Frank Merchant when I visited him in Sydney.

Titled "The Manly Bowlers", I love the expressions. Don't think they are the happiest lot. Perhaps they take the game too seriously.

As you can see I'm always on the prowl for interesting work, preferably indicative of the artist's style. I love being surrounded by reminders of the talented and creative friends I've collected along my way.

HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY!

2012-01-26T04:57:00.000+10:00

To celebrate this day I want to share possibly THE most famous Australian poem ever... illustrating the second verse with some photos from my ever-expanding collection.

My Country by Dorothea Mackellar

The love of field and coppice,
Of green and shaded lanes.
Of ordered woods and gardens
Is running in your veins,
Strong love of grey-blue distance
Brown streams and soft dim skies
I know but cannot share it,
My love is otherwise.

I love a sunburnt country,

A land of sweeping plains,

Of ragged mountain ranges,

Of droughts

and flooding rains.

I love her far horizons,

I love her jewel-sea,

Her beauty

and her terror -

The wide brown land for me!

A stark white ring-barked forest
All tragic to the moon,
The sapphire-misted mountains,
The hot gold hush of noon.
Green tangle of the brushes,
Where lithe lianas coil,
And orchids deck the tree-tops
And ferns the warm dark soil.

Core of my heart, my country!
Her pitiless blue sky,
When sick at heart, around us,
We see the cattle die -
But then the grey clouds gather,
And we can bless again
The drumming of an army,
The steady, soaking rain.

Core of my heart, my country!
Land of the Rainbow Gold,
For flood and fire and famine,
She pays us back threefold -
Over the thirsty paddocks,
Watch, after many days,
The filmy veil of greenness
That thickens as we gaze.

An opal-hearted country,
A wilful, lavish land -
All you who have not loved her,
You will not understand -
Though earth holds many splendours,
Wherever I may die,
I know to what brown country
My homing thoughts will fly....

Am feeling very patriotic today... hope my photos do dear Dorothea justice... Jo

The Art Year begins... with a vengeance

2012-01-24T07:27:00.000+10:00

I did promise myself that this year I would not commit to too many projects but I really do love a challenge.

Of course I've only done A Letter A week for one year so HAD to join up again for just one more. With an ongoing interest in digital art I've chosen this medium for my first alphabet for the year.

The image might well change when the entire alphabet is completed, but at least I'm in the process.

My collaging is done for now (see previous collage posts on the side-bar), and I have a painting on the easel at last. This is intended for either the Rotary ArtCoast exhibition or the Sunshine Coast Art Awards and is part of a series I call "Aloft", all semi-abstract landscapes from a birdseye view.

LANDSBOROUGH FARMS - work in progress

I've also committed to doing a photographic self-portrait challenge... one each month for 'Urban Muser'. I'm hoping this challenge will cause me to consider my photos more carefully. This month the task is "A Piece Of Me", so here goes for a VERY amateur photographer.

I thought I'd kick off with a real depiction of the beginning of the process, actually taking a photo (in the mirror).

Naturally I mucked around with it in Photoshop. Hope that's acceptable within the guidelines. After all, a photo is there to be 'artified' isn't it? (I expect some flak re this from REAL photographers)

So...... that's two challenges on top of my International Collage Exchange and 2012 COMA shows (probably four this year), plus general painting awards and exhibitions... too much you think? Probably, but life's too short to waste.

Visiting FRANK MERCHANT - artist

2012-01-20T05:00:00.000+10:00

Frank at home

Before I left Sydney twelve years ago to move to Queensland I belonged to an art group called 'H12'. The title came from our connection through art school at Hornsby TAFE college.

We met monthly for lunch and some creative play such as drawing each other, or visiting exhibitions, and exhibited our own work in various galleries across Sydney.

All female, other than our token 'bloke' Frank, we had a wonderful connection... and still do... tho' we have each gone in different directions in the intervening years.

A recent call from Sydney asked if I could return briefly for Frank's 80th birthday (my how the years roll on). Could I what ? Of course I could!

The few remaining 'core' group all duly arrived at Frank's house armed with food and drink ready to celebrate the life of this prolific, and much under-rated artist.

Deb V H , Me, Frank, Chris, Jen, Rhonda, Deb A, Shirley

Frank at 80

Frank has always been dedicated to his art and works daily in his studio that is packed to the rafters with the most amazing, colourful, and vigorous work. Tho' mostly acrylics, he often uses ink and pastels for drawings casually piled high on chairs... like these...

We couldn't wait to spread them on the floor for a better look.

Chris sorting out the works

This work, on four sheets, was an absolute winner. (pardon the photography)

"GERTRUDE STEIN AND ALICE B.TOKLAS" BY Frank Merchant

Frank is the most modest and unassuming person. but so talented. It has always been a surprise to us all that he is unknown, but he does not make an effort to show his work.

His friend, photographer Jozef Vissel has documented lots of it on a web page. Jozef is a well-known photographer here in Australia, with much work archived in the Mitchell Library.

click HERE to see it.

We were each invited to select a work from the pile on the chair to take away with us. How generous! Shirley got the above and I got a wonderful piece called "the Manly Bowlers" that I need to uncurl before I can photograph... sorry... will do soon.

Why oh why some gallery hasn't picked him up is amazing! If anyone wants to pass this on to a gallery owner please do so. I will be canvassing galleries that I know, and hope that someone can see the merit in this enormous body of work.

Almost done collaging...

2012-01-12T04:38:00.001+10:00

... I think. I just have to clear the decks so I can paint.

Have still a few in progress that might, or might not, be completed but in my desperation I have actually done a VERY minimalist collage that even I thought was inspired. It began with a simple gestural brush stroke on watercolour paper. I cut the stroke into 3 pieces and chose two of them for this....

TAKE A BOW

The 'dotty' pieces are enamelled glass, fired in my kiln (some bits left over from previous ceramic/glass sculptures).

At present I am enchanted with the simplicity (as one who tends to overwork stuff), and probably wont part with it for a while. That is, until I am able to simplify on demand.

I mean compare it with this...

RUST

...too much going on here, by comparison.

What do you think?

.. will it never end?...

2012-01-09T04:28:00.003+10:00

... it has to or I'll never paint again. Meanwhile here's the next lot of collages...

THE PARTY'S OVER - painted and handmade papers, bottletops, chocolate wrappers

STARS AND STRIPES - handmade and painted papers, sequin waste, buttons

R U 1 - handmade, painted, and printed papers.. stick on letters, acrylic paint, gold leaf

Am off to Sydney for a few days. Perhaps that will put a full stop to this obsessive episode?

STILL Collaging....

2012-01-06T05:05:00.001+10:00

... and I can't seem to stop. I have such a mess in my studio that only fellow collagists would understand, and I really need to clear the decks for my painting schedule to begin. But I can't !! R says when I'm on a roll I should forget everything and keep on going. He's such a dear. I guess I'll just have to listen and go with the flow.

INDOCHINA - found and painted papers, magazine cut out

BOUND - handmade and painted papers, ceramic leaf, gold thread

WITH OPEN ARMS - acrylics, painted and handmade papers, gold leaf

... and there's more to come, very soon. See you shortly.

A Letter A Week 2012 - Intro

2012-01-02T05:13:00.001+10:00

Another ALAW year has begun and my brain is in overdrive. This is this year's brief from Fiona:

"The aim is simplyto:Write/createa letter a week, creating52 letters Whichmust

form 2 x alphabets (that is not 52 x the letter ‘A’) Bythe end of 2012.

The mainrule is that the letter must be presented on a piece of material measuring

7cmx 7cm – thishelps keep a sense of uniformity amongst the pieces which helps

with exhibitioncoherence. The othercriterion for 2012 is that ONEalphabet has to

meet the criteria of "Goingdotty – polka dots and pixels"

Last year was my first ALAW and I so enjoyed the challenge that I'm back again to give it another go.

In 2011 my first choice of tools to work with was collage/mixed media...

1st alphabet 2011

I deviated a little from this with my second alphabet, and planned to make a mini-book. My fondness for bending the rules a little made me interpret the 'letter a week' thing literally and I actually wrote a letter for each week, using the relevant 'letter' each time. The 'letters' were printed on vellum, attached with sealing wax to ink-splattered watercolour paper.

Well, I finished the signatures but still haven't sewn them together. I will, give me a little time.

This year's 'dotty' thingy might mean pixels to me, then again who knows what other inspiration might strike.

Thanks to Fiona there's a year of incredible creativity about to unfold on this site, and I can hardly wait for the show to begin.

If you want to see how creative people are, just visit last year's site:

http://aletteraweek2011.blogspot.com/

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL

2012-01-01T05:09:00.001+10:00

It is almost 5 am on the first day of 2012 and I feel my first post for the year should be to thank you all for visiting my blog, and for the support and encouragement that you've given me. Because of you I have had a most interesting and productive 2011.

My wish for you.....

May the sun rise on a year filled with joy, good health, and creativity.... and may Richard and I propose a toast to you all....

I look forward to some wonderful 'inter-blogging' experiences.

Still Collaging.......

2011-12-30T05:03:00.000+10:00

It seems that, while I have an extraordinary mess in my studio, I should continue with the collaging. It must be a way of putting off cleaning up I guess.

I seem to have different styles on different days.... funny that.

TOP BRASS

This collage is similar in style to two in my previous post. Then there's this one...

THERE'S A ZEBRA IN THE FLOWER PATCH

... a totally different style. But wait.... there's more!

ROCK STAR

Come back another day, there are even more!

Working On Collages

2011-12-27T05:04:00.000+10:00

Now that the 'painting' year is over for the moment, I am working on collages for the 14th International Collage Exchange . I was delighted to be included in last year's exchange, so signed up again. Of course, while I'm on a roll, I will do more than the required baker's dozen and keep them for exhibition. Might even sell them, if I'm lucky.

Here are a few of the first ones...

Empress

Painted paper, handmade paper, wooden fan blade, doily.

Jewel Of The Orient

Found, handmade, and painted papers, bottletop, glass bead.

Brainwaves

Watercolour and handmade papers, cutout, inkjet transparency, acrylics, silver joss paper, calculator circuit.

For other collagists out there... why not consider joining the Exchange this year?

CREATIVELY FEATURED

2011-12-22T04:39:00.000+10:00

Annie, at ARTISTS IN BLOGLAND asked to interview me for her monthly feature. I was delighted to do so, and the interview is now posted on her site., along with some of my oldest paintings...like this

'White Roses' was one of my very first paintings while I was at 'hobby class', before I went to 'real' art school. It still hangs on the wall of a dear friend, also one of my oldest.... say, 44 years of friendship. Fortunately Ann lives in Brisbane now so we still see each other occasionally.... and I always get a surprise when I see this work.
Drop on over to check it out and, while you're there, you'll see lots of great creative stuff.

http://artistsinblogland.blogspot.com/

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

2011-12-18T04:21:00.001+10:00

At this time of year I want to thank everyone who has visited my blog, not just those who registered to follow it. My followers are special people indeed, but I appreciate all who have shown interest in my work. It has been the most encouraging experience and I'm very glad to be a fully-fledged blogger. Sooo, without further ado....

I usually make Christmas cards for my arty friends and this year was a 'recycling' year. I cut images from all the cards I received last year and glued them onto blank cards. Sometimes I added a little glitter... you can never have too much bling at Christmas.

In the past I've done small paintings, all similar...

... or photoshopped images...

I just love doing this, it really gets me into the Festive spirit.

Finally I'd like to share an image of one of the creatively decorated homes in our town, and wish everyone a Happy Aussie Christmas....

Hope you are all full of festive joy and that Christmas brings with it peace, happiness, and good health... (not to mention inspiration).

With love from...... Me.

I WON

2011-12-16T05:05:00.000+10:00

...no prizes sorry, but a giveaway from Trace Willans of Soewn Earth. Trace uses all natural dyes and wax for her pieces. I have long been an admirer of her work and was over the moon to receive my little stash of handmade and dyed papers, and some canvas and fabric bits too.

The rich aroma of wax that greeted me when I opened the envelope was just gorgeous...
and one of the pieces was a complete image.

Happy, happy me.... lucky too.

No doubt some of this will appear in future collages and will certainly add depth to my work. Thank you Trace.

You can find Trace's fabulous stuff at http://www.etsy.com/shop/soewnearth, although she's been taking a break to move from Tasmania to Western Australia.

FAVOURITE PHOTOS

2011-12-07T04:11:00.001+10:00

While I am a painter, and former potter, I take many photos wherever I go. These are often inspiration for future work.

I don't profess to be an expert with the camera but, occasionally, an image grabs me enough to want to share.

This appealed to my patriotism on Australia Day. I did ask permission to take the photo.

City reflections are always fascinating. Perhaps it will inspire an abstract painting?

Up close and personal at Dubbo Zoo. Those teeth are really dangerous!

A friend's two granddaughters looking at images on a camera. I just loved the obvious connection between them, and the way they are totally absorbed.

What Americans call a carnival we call a show... and who doesn't love one.... all that colour!

We walk each morning past this pond with its abundance of birdlife.

These are called 'bridal veil' funghi, and grow occasionally below my mango tree.

It is absolutely necessary for me to occasionally have a 'city fix' where I can be found ogling clothes I will never wear, and trying on shoes that will never see the inside of my cupboard.

Sunset is a magical time. This one is from my deck...

... and THIS (my pick of the year) is in the famous Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory.

It would be possible to go on, and on, and on but hey, enough is enough right?

An Award From A Fellow Blogger!

2011-12-02T06:26:00.001+10:00

It is always great to find other bloggers enjoy your posts, but to be chosen as a favourite from so many of the bloggers out there is encouraging indeed. Holly Dean of Often Medieval In Mood has chosen me for the ....

AWARD

Thank you Holly, for this accolade. I am honoured to accept it in the spirit in which it was given.

Who knows where The Liebster Blog Award originated? It is meant to showcase those who have fewer than 200 followers. (Liebster means "favourite" or "dearest" in German.) This is done in the spirit of pay-it-forward. In accepting this award, the recipient agrees to:

• Thank the person that gave them the award and link back to their blog
• Copy and paste the award to their blog
• Reveal the 5 blogs they have chosen to award and let them know by commenting on their blog

For those I am about to award, I should also point out there is no obligation to continue this award. If this is not your cup of tea, don’t worry.

The value behind this award is for us to get to know other bloggers who might not be well known, yet have a lot to share. Each of us has our own following, for various different reasons. Those who read our blogs might benefit from being introduced to other sorts of art practice. It is all part of the blogging concept of sharing knowledge.

I have chosen to pass on the award to five of my faves, all accomplished in different mediums. I have eclectic tastes in creativity, and my awards go to people who are passionate about their art, work regularly, and share images and information generously.

1. RUST'N'STUFF blogger Barry Smith is a sculptor, using recycled metals, wood, glass, and crystal. The titles of his work are often plays on words, and that amuses me on another level.

Moon Gate - Barry Smith

2. KIM SCHOENBERGER is multi-talented. Her early works included beaded earrings, and thrown pottery. She has now graduated to metal sculptures, and has a huge stash of rusty old metal. Meanwhile she continues to create exquisitely fine porcelain pieces embedded with tiny rusted cogs, or even bling. Like my previous friend, Barry, she is creative with her titles

Flourish - Porcelain inlaid with rusty cogs - Kim Schoenberger

The Squeeze - Kim Schoenberger

3. PAPER PONDERINGS blogger Fiona Dempster is a calligrapher, and bookmaker, whose work is precise, well considered, reflective, and very beautiful. She weaves her pieces around concepts such as journeys, feelings, and the depth of meaning in words.

Handmade book - Fiona Dempster

4. WABISABIART friend Noela Mills runs the best mixed media workshops I've ever been to. She is accomplished in many forms of art, and makes the most interesting jewellery.

Weathered - Noela Mills

Earrings - Noela Mills

4. SOEWN EARTH is the blog of Trace Willans who uses completely natural earth and vegetable dyes, and wax, to transform paper and cloth into beautifully subtle and tactile works of art.

Mixed media on handmade paper - Trace Willans

Fabric wrap journal - Trace Willans

5. MALENY ART belongs to Ken Munsie another sculptor who uses recycled stuff, ceramics, and handmade paperto make his very evocative and substantial pieces. I have to add him to this list not only because of his beautiful pieces, but because he is a constant, and tireless, supporter and organiser for local art... particularly a group I belong to the Collaboration Of Maleny Artsts (COMA).

Refused - Ken Munsie

It is no coincidence that most of the above are members of COMA, and that all are Australian, or that their common ground is recycling. I am immensely proud of the artistic community in Australia, and the enormous number of 'recyclers' here. I have intended my awards list to showcase Australian Art to my O/S followers.

It seems that, despite my claims to have eclectic tastes, I lean towards tactile pieces. The palettes are also so different to my own. Perhaps that is why I am drawn to them.

I hope you enjoy visiting these wonderful blogs, and perhaps find inspiration there.

IN THE MAIL

2011-11-30T04:20:00.001+10:00

Yesterday was one of those days when a long anticipated package arrives. Oh the joy of receiving my giveaway from Patty S at Magpie's Nest!

Patty had embellished the envelope with HEAPs of stamps, and sealed the back with holly tape. I can see bits of this package turning up in a collage soon.

She wrapped the enclosed magazine with a strip of marbled paper closed with a parakeet sticker. More fodder for the collage stash.

...and that wasn't all. Inside was a handmade card which will remain a treasured part of my collection.

A big THANK YOU Patty! I have already earmarked the instructions for a 'waterfall' book for a 2012 project.

You can see lots of Patty's wonderful work, and be treated to some great scenery of her part of the world HERE.

STUDIO VISITS

2011-11-26T04:29:00.001+10:00

Yesterday was a day I'd promised myself to set aside for visiting some of my best creative friends. I've been called for jury duty for three weeks from Monday, so will be 'art-deprived' for a while. I gathered two 'besties' into the car and set off to visit Fiona & Barry, Ken, and Kim, with a lunch in between, and about a 100km round trip to look forward to.

First stop was Rosebed St Gallery, to drop off some more paintings, and check out the changing 'Small Works' exhibition.

Next was Fiona & Barry. Fiona had to go to the airport but Barry was busily working when we arrived.

He very kindly stopped what he was doing and took us into the studio to explain many of the processes he uses to make his wonderful pieces. The studio is also Fiona's workplace so we could rummage around among all her lovely handmade books, and other exquisite creations.

Fiona's desk

We bought all sorts of yummy goodies and, so laden, headed off to Ken's.

Ken, explaining one of his impressive sculptures

Ken makes such substantial and fascinating pieces from recycled timber and handmade paper. It was quite an experience to wander around his workshop.

We were exhausted after all this so stopped for lunch at Pomodora's, a lovely restaurant right on the edge of the Obi Obi Creek. Then on to Montville for coffee and a visit to Main Street Gallery.

Kim was next on the list as I had collected some rusty old bits for her to add to her stash. Her garden is gorgeous, as partner Glen is a landscape gardener. Of course her sculptures add another dimension.

The rose bower

In my enthusiasm to browse around I forgot to photograph Kim, but did capture her 'self-portrait' among the rusty bits.

Laden with more treasures, and fresh zucchinis from the garden, we headed home, and I am artistically refreshed for the duration.

Thanks to all of them for taking time to explain their work, and tempting us with purchasable treasures.

Hope you follow my links to see the wonderful work of my 'mates'. It was hard to juggle camera, and browse for treasures to buy.

Mucking Around With Mixed Media

2011-11-22T04:35:00.001+10:00

Am at last back in the studio and, as the post title says, mucking around woth mixed media.

Rain Over Red Hill

Along The Garden Path

Night Falls

Of course you'd never know that I'm very fond of colour would you?

AWOL In Surfers Paradise

2011-11-17T04:03:00.001+10:00

This is why the place is so named

Some stalwart followers might have noticed my absence for the past week. R & I escaped briefly for a little R & R. Artistic pursuits on the backburner, I was still armed with camera and ready for anything.

O/S bloggers have treated me to assorted travelogues of their various countries sooooo...here's the famous Sufers Paradise, Queensland, Australia.

The most famous thing about 'Surfers' (as we call it) is the beach... seemingly endless, sand like talc, and often with few people... or dogs.

Over the years developers have cluttered the beachfront with high-rise buildings that cast shadows on the beach in the afternoon. This has been cause for much concern from locals who hate to lose their sun.

The view from our apartment

Still, the buildings go up and they get more interesting as design has improved over the years.

Mind you, there are still some 'daggy' ('scuse the Oz slang) places around... old beach shacks that have resisted the advancement of design, albeit with pretentious names.

Our apartment tho' was average, older, but perfectly placed for endless views.....

R in front of our block where X marks the apartment. The whole front of that floor is ours, from side to side, but we closed the curtains for a while in the morning to keep the sun out.

Street art abounds on the Gold Coast... some realist...

... some not.

I loved many of the signs.... definitely a subject for another blog sometime, but here's a sample.

We ate...

..swam..

... and generally recovered from a hectic year,

until it was time to come home.

Will be back in the studio very shortly... stay tuned.

MORE SMALLS

2011-11-08T04:43:00.000+10:00

Because the exhibition at Rosebed St Gallery is a 'takeaway' show, the purchased works have to be replaced. As a result I am still working on small paintings so that i have a 'stash' from which to choose.

UPWARDLY MOBILE - acrylics, collage

SKIN DEEP - acrylics, collage, snakeskin

SOLAR FLARE - acrylics

No doubt I'll keep on going, while I'm on a roll.

Small Works/Small Town

2011-10-30T08:12:00.000+10:00

Friday night's opening at Rosebed St Gallery was a blast. The gallery is in Eudlo, a very small town, inland from Caloundra. That said, it still attracted a large crowd from all over the Sunshine Coast.

They waited patiently for the official opening ceremony to be completed then all were given access to the gallery at the same time. After all, fair's fair. It was like the opening of a David Jones post-Christmas sale.

Jade, from Pokokai at Nambour, did the honours with an excellent, and not too lengthy, speech.

I was delighted to see my works hung right by the front door, near one of Kim Schoenberger's fabulous little sculptures.

One of my favourite works by Kim was this one...

RABBIT WARREN (clever hey?)

Because it was a 'takeaway' show, buyers were able to pay for and take their purchases home. The work was flying off the walls (and plinths), including some of mine and Kims.

THREE CROSSES - sold

CROSSING THE WHITE LINE - sold

Most of the missing pieces will be replaced, so don't think you'll only see half an exhibition when you go. You'll just see a slightly different one AND the work is VERY portable, and VERY cheap.

Gallery details:

Rosebed Street Gallery and Studio

13 Rosebed Street Eudlo

Hours

Wed - Sun:

10:00 am

4:00 pm

About

www.rosebedstgallery.com ph: 5457 3780

Third Prize - The Human Form

2011-10-28T04:44:00.000+10:00

I recently entered some work in the inaugural Alan Reading Memorial Art Awards held in Maleny.

This award show has been established by Alan's wife, artist and teacher, Lyn. It is to benefit Bloomhill Cancer in memory of her husband who died of cancer this year.

My entry in the Human Form gained me third prize. A small, simple drawing, in ink on rough watercolour paper.

"TORSO"

It was an agreeable surprise to find such a simple image caught the judge's eye, but it certainly made my day.

Other friends who won prizes are Ken Munsie, Mieke Van Sambeek, and Gaynor Hardinge. (click on the links to see their work)

Congratulations all !!!!

Q, R, S, T, U, V, W,X, Y, Z

2011-10-23T05:33:00.000+10:00

At last I've had time to complete my last letters for the ALAW challenge for this year.

WHEW!!!! Now all I have to do is make a book... and that's another story.

On The Wings Of Inspiration

2011-10-21T05:16:00.000+10:00

This year has been one of artistic challenges, many of which have come from the site Inspiration Avenue. One of the things that this has inspired me to do is work small (and often). I have always believed in the power of 'brush mileage' to make you improve and certainly I've done some mileage in the past few months.

Miniatures have always been part of my repertoire but there have been more produced from my studio this year than during any other. The criteria for 'miniature' work is that it must be no larger than 10 cm x 10 cm.

Perhaps you'd like to see some....

Along The Gully

The Valley

Reef Fish (collage)

The Bridge

I drift from expression, collage, to abstract art, as the fancy takes me. It's all mileage, right? All this practice improves my larger works... at least I hope so.

There are soooo many clever artists connected to Inspiration Avenue why don't you just click here to check them out.

A Letter A Week - Catching Up

2011-10-18T06:11:00.000+10:00

I've been quite remiss about my ALAW project. It's been a very busy few months for me. No excuse really, as everyone's busy. My last letters (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, & H) were posted on August 30th, so I guess I need refresh you about the process.

My 'letters' (taken literally) are printed on vellum, then scorched on the edges (as one often burns notes received). They are then attached to watercolour paper, complete with ink blots, with red sealing-wax stamped with the relevant letter.

Eventually I will turn them into a mini-book... perhaps titled 'A Book Of Letters' ?

So, on with the show... the photos are a little haphazard, not my strong point.

I'm rather hoping that these snippets of info will expand into a whole story in your imagination.

My Amateur Silverwork

2011-10-17T08:33:00.000+10:00

Rosebed St Gallery ran a silver earring workshop on Saturday morning so I decided to sign up. I don't know what I expected, but thoroughly enjoyed the morning AND came home with some handmade earrings as well. Mind you, they are VERY rough, but I learned a lot.

Cathy McCarthy (be patient, her site is being updated) makes delighful sterling silver jewellery with designs and imprinted patterns inspired by nature.

We arrived to find instructions and tools all set out neatly and Cathy explained their various uses.

Before long this 'order' became 'disorder' as we each got stuck into our own personal project.

We had the choice of tiny discs or squares, with hooks or posts.

I chose squares, and posts, and began the first job of 'annealing' them. This means heating the metal to relax or soften it so that it can be worked. For this process Cathy uses a micro- torch similar to those used for making creme brulee (yummy).

After each annealing the metal has to be 'pickled' in a weak acid solution to remove the discolouration. It is then ready to shape, stamp, or work in any other way. Working hardens the metal again so after each 'working' the process of annealing and pickling is repeated.

Those who chose discs used this fabulous doming block to curve them. The pieces are placed in the correct size recess and hammered with the corresponding size ball.

There was a (very expensive) toy available for us to use also... a rolling mill. This is used to roll your piece together with some texturing (paper, wire, whatever). I was amazed at how a paper leaf skeleton could imprint on the soft silver.

I stamped letters (very badly) into mine, and then textured them with a ball hammer.

Because the pieces were so tiny I was restricted to four letters... obviously not enough for me. I had great diffculty hitting just hard enough, and not so hard the edge of the stamp imprinted.

The stamps were very tiny and hard to line up, but I guess practice makes perfect... and these were my very first.

I then had to solder the posts onto the backs... easy peasy when solder and flux are together in one syringe.

The solder is melted with the micro-torch and then the piece goes into the pickling solution again. Once clean, and rinsed in water, the pieces are then put into a jewellery tumbler filled with water, a dash of detergent, and stainless steel shot. This polishes them to their final glory.

Tumbler

Finding the silver among the shot

There was not sufficient time for the required amount of tumbling, so will have to handpolish my finished pieces.

Rough, but they're mine... and perhaps I should wear them the other way around?...mmmmmm.

Another Exhibition

2011-10-16T06:02:00.000+10:00

Have had a very busy week so have neglected my blog, but will be back in full swing VERY shortly.

Here is the invitation to the 'Smalls' exhibition at Rosebed St Gallery.

If you think you've seen the painting, third from the right, you have.... it's mine. I was delighted to see it on the invitation, along with that gorgeous unicorn made by my blogging friend Kim Schoenberger.

Back soon.

Hung... AND Opened

2011-10-09T14:26:00.000+10:00

Last night was the opening of the exhibition "A Brush With Colour", a collaborative effort between me and two friends, Gaynor Hardinge, and Janet Matthews., at Studio 4 Gallery.

We had spent Thursday hanging...

Jennifer, the Gallery owner, adjusting levels.

.. and were quite happy with the overall display.

A wall of my work.

When I arrived the gallery was already jumping and I had sold 4 pieces! ...small works, my rainforest miniatures (from September 22nd blog), but every little bit of encouragement helps.

It was gratifying to see so many supporters and people interested in art as the gallery is a little out of the way for many people.

Wyn and Noela

Wyn Vogel and Noela Mills are fellow bloggers and each very creative indeed (click on the links to see their work). They are standing in front of some of Gaynor's work.

The exhibition was opened by Julie Hauritz, Education and Public Programmes Officer for the Noosa Regional Gallery, who made a very encouraging and pertinent speech about the role of art in the community.

Gaynor, Me, Julie, and Jennifer

Of course I had to say a few words, most of which disappeared from my brain as soon as I opened my mouth but, hey, I was among friends... and anyway my hands were doing OK on their own.

The speeches were in front of Janet's paintings... wonderful, expressive, large works. Unfortunately Janet was unable to attend after having too good a time overseas, and arriving back the day before completely debilitated with one of those treacherous 'travel' bugs. I know she'll read this and hope she shakes it off soon.

Me & Julie

This is a better image of Janet's work "Evening Glow"

The evening wore on and I sold another painting to a very supportive friend and fellow painter Susanne Barrett but we couldn't party all night (tho' some would've liked to).

Barry, Kim, and Julie

Barry, and Kim, also fellow bloggers, had travelled quite a way to attend and didn't seem to be in any hurry to leave.

I'd like to say thanks to all who came, and those who intend to visit the exhibition when they can fit it into their schedule. I count it a great success.

Cave Secrets

2011-10-03T05:45:00.000+10:00

Since our trip to Central Australia I have been reflecting on the ancient rock art that we had the privilege to see. While I have no wish to be disrespectful to the country's original inhabitants, I have produced a few small works inspired by these.

Cave Secrets 1

Cave Secrets 2

Cave Secrets 3

These paintings are small, 6 x 8 inches mounted on 8 x 10 inch wide edge canvas, and destined for the 'Show Us Your Smalls' exhibition at Rosebed St Gallery at the end of this month.

Keeping It Small

2011-09-29T10:15:00.000+10:00

Small works have been on my agenda for years, but I'm on a roll at present. The following are part of a group done on paper and glued to canvas. This procedure is quite time consuming but I rather like the way they present.

Three Arches

Passing The Red Moon

The paper has had several layers of gesso on the back and MANY layers of paint, and varnish, on the front before adhering to the canvas. Then there are several more layers of varnish on the whole canvas.

When I say small... they are only 6 x 8 inches, on 8 x 10 canvas.

Inspired By Oz

2011-09-28T05:32:00.002+10:00

I reckon that the Australian outback property owners are the salt of the earth. They live in remote places, often barely ekeing out a living from their land.

When you travel in these areas, you are struck by the wonderful colours of the landscape. We have a LOT of red in Australia, and a plethora of greens (depending on the season).

I have tried to capture an impression of these places. They are small works, only 6 x 8 inches, mounted on 8 x 10 wide edge canvas.

On Our Selection

The North Paddock

...and the winner is....

2011-09-26T15:10:00.000+10:00

Well, choosing the winner of my giveaway was not as exotic as I might have planned, given that I am distracted by my forthcoming show.

I first put all the names, in large letters, on an A4 sheet, intending to put it up somewhere and throw a dart. As we don't have a dartboard, and I didn't want to throw darts at the house, or one of my precious trees, I put the paper on the grass. It was windier than I'd've liked, so I had to weigh it down with some pebbles.

Mmmmmm.... we don't have any darts either... will this do?

One of my old 'pottery' tools. Appropriate, as I have given up pottery and may as well throw them all away.

Oops.... I'm not very good at this..... and had to have several tries to actually hit the paper.

Eventually.... BINGO!

Congratulations Patty Szymkowicz , your prize will be posted as soon as I have your address.

Thanks to all who participated. I appreciate that you are still there, out in Blogland, and there will be other giveaways I'm sure.

OCTOBER EXHIBITION

2011-09-25T18:34:00.001+10:00

I am in the final stages of preparing for an exhibition with two friends, opening on 8th October.

Perhaps you'd like to see the opening invitation, although most of you can't come because you are on the other side of the world..... boo hoo :(

Hope to post lots of images after the event.

Miniature Paintings - Works In Progress

2011-09-22T05:24:00.000+10:00

I have always been interested in small works and have won a few prizes for miniatures over the years.

In progress are these mixed media/collage works on 4" x 4" canvas.

Rainforest Remnants I

Rainforest Remnants II

Rainforest Remnants III

Rainforest Remnants IV

Now that I see them in photos I feel I need to 'muck up' the edges of the collaged bits, and will do so forthwith.

The words are on inkjet transparency and, as a whole, read thus....

"We are losing Earth'sgreatest biological treasures just as we are beginning to appreciate their truevalue. Rainforests once covered 14% of the earth's land surface; now they covera mere 6% and experts estimate that the last remaining rainforests could beconsumed in less than 40 years.

One and one-half acres ofrainforest are lost every second with tragic consequences for both developingand industrial countries.

Rainforests are beingdestroyed because the value of rainforest land is perceived as only the valueof its timber by shortsighted governments, multi-national logging companies,and landowners.

Nearly half of the world'sspecies of plants, animals and microorganisms will be destroyed or severelythreatened over the next quarter century due to rainforest deforestation."

From:

http://www.rain-tree.com/facts.htm

100th Post !!!!!!!....and giveaway.

2011-09-19T03:11:00.001+10:00

As I am a great believer in the values of tradition (in most cases) I am having a giveaway to celebrate my 100th post.

This tiny mixed media painting is in a 4" x 5" standard mat in case the winner wants to frame it.

Three Blooms

To qualify for the prize you have to be a follower of my blog, and leave a comment below.
I will number each comment in order and find some unusual way to randomly choose one. The winner will be chosen next Sunday.

I look forward to sending it to one of you!!!

Art Awards...Please, Please, Please

2011-09-18T04:57:00.000+10:00

Today is the very last day to vote for the People's Choice in the Queensland Regional Art Awards.

Although I've shown you my entry before thought I'd give you a refresher.....

Noughts And Crosses

If you like this painting, please, please, please, vote for it....today.....HERE

With this thought in mind, and the fact that this is my 99th post, come back tomorrow for my 100th post giveaway.

Abstract Series.... First Image

2011-09-14T07:59:00.001+10:00

Am off on a new tack (again). This time it is for the Rosebed Street Gallery at Eudlo that is having a "Show Us Your Smalls" exhibition pre-Christmas. A great idea, with each selected artist submitting 6 - 8 paintings that will be shown one at a time and, when sold, replaced by another as the show goes on.

Of course the concept necessitates that the size and format of each remain constant for ease of replacement, so I've limited myself to 8" x 10" (inches!... how backward am I?).

I have done many layers of paint on acid free cartridge paper that was first gessoed several times on each side. These pieces are then glued to the wide edge canvas (also gessoed several times) then varnished a few times to ensure that they are well sealed. These will not be framed although the purchaser (if there is one....or two...hopefully) is then free to frame...or not.

The first of this series.....

Stitched

Am already up to number three, but no photos yet.

First Prize ....and there's more...

2011-09-12T09:37:00.001+10:00

Hooray... the 'art account' is looking much healthier these days. Just won a $200 1st Prize for Drawing in the Noosa Show.

"Rainforest"... charcoal

.....AND.. have done a replacement painting for my 'A Carpet Of Purple' which was sold at the COMA exhibition at the Maleny Library. That exhibition has moved on to the UpFront Club for a month, with my new painting.

"Cactus Flower"... acrylic, with digital image on fabric collage.

This was based on the imported weed, Prickly Pear.

Prickly pear is in our history books as one of the most invasiveweeds ever imported into Australia. Special acts of Parliament were passed to enforce control measures in anattempt to halt its spread through Queensland and New South Wales.

Prickly pear first came to New South Wales with the FirstFleet. It was to be used to establish a cochineal dye Industry. What a disaster!

Acknowledged as one of the greatest biological invasions of modern times, the introduction and subsequent spread of prickly pear into Queensland and New South Wales had infested millions of hectares of rural land by the 1920s, rendering it useless for agriculture. Prickly pear proved so difficult and costly to control by chemical and mechanical means that enormous areas were simply abandoned by their owners.

The eventual control of this pest, mainly by one insect and in the space of a few short years, is an amazing story, which has encouraged further, successful developments in the field of biological pest control.

Interesting yarn...AND true!!

Images From Kakadu

2011-09-10T06:21:00.000+10:00

I still haven't sorted my photos from our recent trip, but had a bit of a browse through them this morning.

Perhaps I should share some from Kakadu....

Overlooking Kakadu National Park

Wetlands

Pandanus... this is the 'water' kind

Jabiru... there were hundreds of them

Ancient Art Ubirr Rock

A mere surface look at such a vast area and, as for my photos.....mmmmmmm. They don't do it justice....AND I have 2000 of them to look through.

HANDS

2011-09-09T05:53:00.001+10:00

Seth Apter, of The Altered Page blog, once made a series of fabulous hand sculptures and I promised I'd post some of my own hands from my former life as a potter.

So, here you are Seth.....

"Gesture" , wallpiece, each tile is about 4cm square. Caloundra Creative Ceramics Award.

"Let Me Out!" from the exhibition "Secret And Sacred Places"

"Shoop, Shoop"

"The Vet Says He's A Basket Case"

"...And I'm Left Holding The Baby"

"The Ritual"

"A Handy Little Yellow Teapot"

While my pots were more about the words than the hands I hope Seth finds them amusing.
The photos aren't all that great as some of them are very old, but you get the idea.

It seems tradition dictates that one must have a 'giveaway' for one's 100th blog. I'm working on it as I only have a few to go, so you'd best not miss that one. It will be drawn from those followers who post a comment on the 100th blog. To 'follow' you need to sign up for a 'gmail' account... not difficult, and it's FREE. It's always handy to have a separate email anyway, so I've found. R used to get quite cross at the number of emails on his list. Now he hardly gets any.

Weed Exhibition

2011-09-06T05:26:00.000+10:00

COMA has just had it's ninth exhibition, a small show in the Maleny library. All the same size, the works were to depict an imported species that has had a negative effect on the Australian environment.

As always it was an interesting and diverse collection from eighteen artists. To see each work in detail click HERE.

Sonja, Noela, and Kim in the library

Left side of the show

Right side of the show

Middle of show (that's me,,, sold!)

After a gathering to open the exhibition some of us went to dinner to celebrate.

Maleny is such a melting-pot of diverse talents and I feel privileged, as a 'mountain' person, to be part of the group.

There's always a beginning, a middle AND an end

2011-09-05T04:14:00.000+10:00

My weekly Scrapiteria collage challenge has come to an end. Angelica, who did all the organising, has decided to move on to other projects.

Sooo, the theme this week is, obviously, THE END .

There's always a beginning, a middle, AND an end.

I will miss the weekly challenge, and the creative works of other collagists, but one must move on. Mine has been a relatively short association with the group. I've been having fun but some of the other members are serious and VERY talented artists. Check them out HERE

Studio Visit

2011-09-03T06:33:00.000+10:00

ARTS CONNECT arranged for hinterland artists to open their studios on two recent weekends. I used the opportunity to visit my artist friend Danni Oliver at her home in Montville.

Danni and I once went to the same art teacher and have been to many workshops together since those days.

Mixed media workshop... great fun!!!

At home in the studio

Her studio is so spacious and light, and Danni keeps it much neater than mine.

We spent a couple of pleasant hours on the floor going over previous works (in progress).

Her painting rack is an inspired construction made of recycled wood and broom handles bought VERY cheaply at a throwout sale. Worth copying don't you think?

Art Exhibition

2011-08-31T05:26:00.010+10:00

COMA has mounted a small exhibition on the theme ‘ … introduced ‘ relating to the impact on our environment of imported weeds. The painting size is restricted to 10 x 12 inches because of the limited space.

This exhibition will be part of “Weed Week” - observed throughout the Shire. Three local film makers are putting together short films themed on weeds and there are a few workshops planned on weeds – painting of and weaving with weeds maybe … and all will be held at - and promoted through - the Maleny Library.

The opening is next Friday night, but the exhibition can be seen by clicking HERE

My small contribution is...

A Carpet Of Purple (not a great photo, sorry)

... and I believe that it's already SOLD. I'm delighted.

Patterson's Curse is toxic to most grazing animals and is Australia's worst broadleaf temperate pasture weed. The weed is native to Mediterranean Europe and northern Africa and was introduced to Australia in the 1850s as an ornamental garden plant.

It reduces pasture productivity and is toxic to livestock and It degrades the natural environment by crowding out and suppressing native vegetation.

Despite this, from an artist’s view, the brilliant purple of paddocks covered with the weed are an absolute delight to behold. My childhood memories of life in the Riverina are coloured with this gorgeous purple.

A Letter Week - A, B, C, D

2011-08-30T05:38:00.000+10:00

It's now well and truly the second half of the year for the A Letter A Week challenge.

I'm VERY late. I feel like my whole life is running two months late these days. Despite this I've managed to, eventually, get my 'letters' done for July and August.

Being prone to a little whimsy I've taken Fiona's challenge QUITE literally this time and have written a missive for each week. After all that's what the alphabet is for isn't it, to communicate?

I began with some 330gm watercolour paper and some splattered black. My 'letters' I printed on vellum and then scorched the sides. This made them quite wonky, so I had to press them for a while under some books. I wanted a feeling that there might have been some attempt to destroy them, as one does with notes one receives.

The watercolour paper has been torn and folded into 'signatures' with a view to making a book eventually, if I can remember how (thanks to Noela for the lesson), and the 'letters' secured with sealing wax imprinted with the letter of the alphabet.

My 'letters' run the entire gamut of communications... greetings, advice, warnings, romance, etc., and many are quite ambiguous. I hope you will all find something that sparks your imagination in some way, so that you can picture a scenario between two people.

Paper and blots

Hope Fiona approves. I'm enjoying this.

Liberate Your Art

2011-08-25T06:51:00.004+10:00

Recently I was involved in a 'postcard swap' run by KAT SLOMA , a photographer from Oregon USA. I dutifully made five postcards, with photos of recent work on the front, and was rewarded with five return cards from different people PLUS one from Kat herself. Each postcard had a different message on the back, some with interesting quotes. A great way to see more 'stuff' and connect with creative people on the other side of the world.

Here are the five I received, almost all from photographers of course.

Brigitte Hoist
"I'm sending you my warmest wishes with this photo I took in April. Hope you'll like it.

Have a wonderful day oxo Brigitte (aka Rosie Grey) "

Abstract In Blue by Kelly Helfrich

"Hi new art friend ! Would love to hear from you ! Stop by & say hi !"

(Sorry Kelly, I tried the blog on the back of your card but got nowhere)

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Anita Hadley
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams - Eleanor Roosevelt

Hi from Florida ! Take care - Anita "

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Angela P Shenk

"We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts we make the world - the Buddha.

Be well, xo Angela "

Gail Ornstein

"In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary - Aaron Rose. xoxo Gail "

... and last, but definitely not least, KAT herself.

"I'm so glad we met through this swap ! :) Kat "

Loved the cards, and the quotes. I was thrilled to connect with these talented people and see more work on their web pages. You can too by clicking on the links... (coloured names for those new to the concept)..... or the following box.

Abstract Workshop - Peter Griffen

2011-08-22T08:57:00.000+10:00

What a weekend!!!! I've had an extraordinarily creative two days with PETER GRIFFEN a contemporary Australian artist.

His object was to make us get in touch with our 'inner child'. Sounds easy right? NOT!!! We are all bound by our past experience.

Peter began his first day by showing us how to take 'a line for a walk', in the immortal words of artist Paul Klee.

From this seemingly simple beginning we began our journey. Someone in the group called it the journey of the DEAD. Not as macabre as it seems.... Decorate, Echo, Analyse, Destroy ... then do it all again.

There will be some images in this blog that, for the life of me, I can't identify as coming from a particular person in the group, so hope I'm forgiven for that. There were works all over the floor, tables, on easels... everywhere.

We added colour to our 'lines' and it took off from there.

This is definitely one of mine

I was lucky to have a few friends in the group. Janet was one of the first friends I made when I first moved to Caloundra, with her daughter Felicity... and Susanne, one of a group I meet with for lunch each month.

Susanne's work is beautifully subtle

Felicity is a 'natural'

Janet is a colourist, through and through

... and I just love all this 'arty' stuff (my table)

Peter was very generous with his 'secrets' and during breaks we were treated to an analysis of some of his work.

The second day we were to incorporate what we'd learned previously into a 'still life'. BANG! Back we were, confronted by tradition, and desperate to avoid the obvious.

We could use part of, or all these objects... a pot, a mug, a woven basket, a mortar and pestle, and a penis gourd.

I think I missed the whole point of 'abstract' as this is hardly so, but the lessons I learned will be analysed at my leisure, and definitely enhance future work.

We were a merry, and slightly tattered little group (that's me on the floor - my favourite place)

Many thanks Peter.

Back To My Weekly Collages

2011-08-21T05:57:00.000+10:00

I'm back to my routine... almost. This week's Scrapiteria theme is 'Animal, Vegetable, Mineral' As I seem to be still influenced by Central Australia here goes.

Greed Is Not Good

I guess it's a comment on what the 'goldseekers' are doing to our landscape. Greedy pigs with their snouts in the trough, searching for the golden apple. Although an apple is not really a 'vegetable', in the sense of the brief it works for me.

Will we stop selling our country to overseas mining companies?... pigs might fly!

Am this weekend at an abstract workshop with Peter Griffen. Am having a ball AND taking photos. Will get to post them shortly.

Gorges And Valleys

2011-08-18T07:55:00.000+10:00

Still very 'up' about our trip to outback Australia, and sorting the photos is keeping me so. One of the first things I photographed when we arrived in Alice Springs was outside the motel where we were staying.

Sturt's Desert Pea is famous for its distinctive blood-red leaf-like flowers, each with a bulbous black centre. It is one of Australia's best known wildflowers, native to the arid regions of central and north-western Australia. I love these flowers but they are difficult to grow.

It's sometimes difficult to juggle a camera while climbing enormous rocks, and traversing difficult terrain. We often struggled with the light as the contrast between the harsh sunlight and the shadows was enormous. However, the trials were insignificant when we reached our various destinations. Awe and amazement were the usual reactions.

Cycad Gorge

Palm Valley

It is such rugged and beautiful country that it is difficult to convey without professional cameras, but who needs to lug heavy equipment when climbing over all this.

This was a VERY tiny precis of our first day. We did sooooo much more.

Always A Bridesmaid

2011-08-18T03:22:00.019+10:00

There is a saying - "Always a bridesmaid, never a bride". Hope it's not true. I have a painting in the Queensland Regional Art Awards

When I saw my work on the site thought I was a finalist, but it seems that I am not, and that all of the paintings on the site are ALL the entrants. I'm in good company too, with some of my friends also there.

Congratulations to Susanne Barrett Ken Munsie Kim Schoenberger !!!!!!... and good luck all.

Noughts And Crosses - acrylics, 61 x 61 cm

More info and YOU CAN VOTE on this site for the people's choice.

Queensland Regional Art Awards

...hope you do.

Last Views Of The Outback

2011-08-17T12:34:00.000+10:00

G'day everyone in Blogland... I'm back. While I have an enormous number of images I'd like to share with you, I also have the washing, shopping, cooking, and arranging my next few weeks busy schedule to attend to. However I can't keep you waiting in suspense (at least I hope you are), so have quickly looked at our last day at Litchfield National Park, just outside of Darwin.

We spent much of the day cruising croc infested rivers...

... where these prehistoric creatures virtually littered the banks...

... and predatory birds, like this Whistling Kite, hunted for food.

When we'd had enough of that it was time for champagne and prawns, on top of a hill overlooking the amazing landscape, and watching this spectacular sunset.

I just loved the way the setting sun reflected on the grasses.

Will eventually get the many photos sorted and share some of the many highlights with you. Lots of painting inspiration for me!!!

The VERY Red Centre

2011-08-08T08:17:00.009+10:00

Thanks to my computer savvy husband, I can actually share a small part of our adventure with you. Richard has his laptop and has managed to tear himself away from it so I can satisfy my blogging urges.

No wonder inland Australia is called the 'red' centre.

We have walked miles, and climbed enormous heights. I have taken sooooo many photos of red rocks, chasms, gorges, etc. that it will be difficult to choose, so will only give you a small sample until I get home.

Naturally the most important places we've visited must be included. Uluru (previously Ayers Rock) is a very sacred area to the local indigenous people. Climbing the rock is discouraged, but that doesn't stop the most intrepid, young, and fit tourists from giving it a go. Mostly they are foreign tourists, as Australians are a little more sensitive to the wishes of the local people.

Another important sacred site is Kata Tjuta (previously the Olgas).

Leaving one of my favourites 'til last.... this photo emphasises the absolutely amazing colours of the landscape.

Until I get more computer time, this will have to do. Stay tuned.

Compilation Of Summer Colours

2011-08-07T18:40:00.000+10:00

Here's the Summer Of Colours compilation... my final post for a few weeks. One image from each colour:

BLUE...

Fused Glass Pendant

GREEN:

At The Crease - digital image

PINK:

View From My Deck - photo

YELLOW:

A Handy Teapot

BROWN:

Scribbly Gum Bark - photo

RED:

Come Away With Me - acrylics

PURPLE:

Conspiracy or Collaboration - digital image

ORANGE:

The Bluff - collage of painted papers

I've surprised myself! A reasonable sample of the range of things that I do.

See you in a couple of weeks.

Australia - The Outback

2011-08-01T06:04:00.000+10:00

It's true... I've become addicted to my blog. Here I am, packed and ready to go for my holiday, still finding more stuff to post. Just HAD to share with you some paintings by my favourite Australian artists that were inspired by the places I'm off to visit.

Erika Beck - Uluru Rockpool

Euan Macleod - Alice Landscape With Car

Guy Warren - Back Country

John Olsen - Artist's Camp

Yvonne Langshaw - Ross River Gorge

I love all these artists, and their works, and hope I'll be similarly inspired.

Summer Of Colour - Orange

2011-08-01T04:58:00.000+10:00

I have to thank Kristin for asking us to include a favourite quote, or verse, with this week's post. There is a very old verse that speaks volumes to me and that I'd like to share...

I would not paint a face, a rock,
nor brooks, nor trees. Mere semblances
of things, but something more than these.

That art is best to which the soul's range
gives no bound. Something besides the
form, something beyond the sound.

Anonymous ..... 8th Century

How often I strive to find the 'essence' of my subject. It is a constant struggle, and not often successful. Getting a 'picture' is relatively simple, but there's more to art than just that. My journey seems to be only beginning. I can see the goal, but will I ever get there? That said, the more mileage I do, and the more thinking, the closer I am. So, let's get on with 'Orange'.

Another photo from my deck... lucky me.

Orange Sunset

A collage... with only a little orange...

The Bluff

Perhaps some of my beaded projects? I just love these particular glass beads, and have put them on a silver wire choker...

... more angels...

... and last, but definitely not least, an image from Photoshop that I've been working on with a view to making a painting, but I don't know what I'd call it. It brings to mind the dry outback which is on my mind as R & I are heading there for a holiday. I hope to have some lovely photos of Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Palm Valley, Katherine Gorge, Kakadu, and other remote places, to share when we return.

Scrapiteria - Time Machine

2011-07-31T04:41:00.001+10:00

Am off on a holiday... hooray... and will be missing the Scrapiteria weekly theme for a couple of weeks.

This week the theme is 'Time Machine'....

Style -bot

Weird... but I think it fits the bill.

Moving To Abstract - Reposted

2011-07-28T05:05:00.000+10:00

Seth at The Altered Page has decided to make today a 'Buried Treasure' day and has invited bloggers to choose a post from their past that they particularly liked, repost it, and link it to his site.

I've chosen this one from April as it reminds me of how far I've come, and where I think I'm heading....

After years of being hindered by traditional ideas of painting I seem to be leaping off into the unknown world of abstract. I feel free at last! It seems many artists begin with traditional works, then progress to the abstract.

I used to paint like this... (and sometimes still do)

The Valley

My latest abstracts bear little resemblance to the above landscape.

Blue Squares

Noughts And Crosses

While many casual viewers might think this is a step backwards, for me it is an enormous progression. The same rules apply to these works as to a more realist painting. It is all about shapes, colours, tones, mark making, etc. In my new, enlightened, view my abstract paintings have more going for them than previous works.

I would love to hear your views on this.

Tea... Inspired

2011-07-26T06:44:00.000+10:00

Inspiration Avenue time again.... this week it's 'Tea'. For a potter, not too hard as I am known for my 'funky' teapots and love making them. Some are functional, but most are just 'fun'.

Naturally I must promote my country to all those who live elesewhere...

Australia Teapot

... and my most ridiculous non-functional teapot...

Hullo Sailor

... and one I love ....

The Ritual Of Tea

My first love tho' is painting...

Coffee (or perhaps tea?) In The Square

... and mixed media/collage...

Black Tea

Cold drink anyone?

Summer Of Colour - Purple

2011-07-26T05:55:00.000+10:00

Kristin has made this week's colour 'PURPLE'... sometimes not easy to work with, but I've given it a go. As I often begin with a photograph, let's not change anything...

A gorgeous Iris in a beautiful bouquet, a gift, not from my garden this time...

...then perhaps a very small painting inspired by an Australian jazz singer, although only a little purple.

Emma Sings The Blues

That made me think of digital portraits, perhaps with a view to a later painting?

Collaboration Or Conspiracy?

Similar palette as 'Emma'. I guess I really like those colours together.

Of course a little beading is my relaxation, and I'm forever making earrings and stuff. I need to have jewels to match ALL my clothes, and love making for friends too. Guess this fulfils Kristin's 'bling' bonus requirement too.

Amethyst... a favourite

Glass pearls.. they come in such great colours.

I love these 'angels'

I'm all purpled out!!!!

The Beach

2011-07-24T06:15:00.000+10:00

Living on the coast I am greatly influenced by the beach. I love the sun, the salt air, and the sound of waves. Of course visiting the beach is a wonderful way to 'people-watch' too. Who knows what you're looking at behind those huge sunnies?

Am in the process of painting some beach-related works for an exhibition in October. They are small, 45 x 45 cm, and am trying to keep the detail to a minimum. It's difficult to keep the story evident, without the detail, but I'm in there trying.

Sunrise Surfer

Follow Me

Paddling

Challenge - Wings

2011-07-21T06:05:00.000+10:00

The team at Inspiration Avenue have made this week's theme 'Wings'. Easy for me, I'm a bird lover... AND I have a garden full of delightful feathered friends I'd like to share with you. The following three are photographed in my back yard.

Corella

Kookaburra

King Parrot

Then, of course, I take photos of birds wherever I go...

Peacocks in Macintosh Park, Surfers Paradise

An attempt to photograph a seagull in flight at our local beach. I think the slight blur gives it a soft focus so is not all that bad. Hard to capture flying birds on a small digital.

Naturally, if I photograph birds, it is compulsory to paint them... in various styles.
Semi real...

Soaring

... or totally abstract (mixed media, triptych)

Les Oiseaux

Any jewellery I make with 'wings' belongs in my Xmas collection. I make them for friends, and for myself.

Couldn't have enjoyed this one more, and it's great to be able to share my passion for 'wings'.

Summer Of Colours - RED

2011-07-18T06:56:00.001+10:00

Who doesn't love red? Bet everyone at Twinkle, Twinkle does amazing work this week.

Firstly, my Adobe image... I asked myself what comes to mind associated with red? Of course...

The (Very) Red Sea

My painting is a little 'whimsical' too. It came about by painting over another abstract work with lots of red... interesting what appeared.

Come Away With Me

I am still making my own jewellery and wanted something to really make a statement. This is rather bold if I say so myself.

Coral, Onyx, and Howlite Necklace

Looks great on black, or white.

The trusty camera has been searching for red too, and I found a beaut sign on an awning while visiting Brisbane.

How red can you get? It's been fun.

Weekly Collage - STEAMPUNK

2011-07-17T04:50:00.000+10:00

'Steampunk'... that's a new word for this age. Of course English is a 'living' language but it's growing so fast!!!

As an 'oldie' I like to take words literally. I mean 'gay' is 'happy' right? Mmmmm perhaps not anymore.

Anyway Scrapiteria has decreed that the theme is something that I do understand in today's context, but choose not to...

Steampunk

... and it's a free country (or is it?)

Inspiration - Picasso

2011-07-16T05:32:00.001+10:00

Well, you would think that with a challenge like 'Picasso' Inspiration Avenue would have provided us with endless opportunities for creativity. Picasso was one of the world's most prolific painters, and a favourite of mine. I feel a certain amount of awe and reverence for his work, and have struggled with either copying or 'taking off' any of his paintings.

I have bitten the bullet however to produce one submission for the challenge this week, but am still a little uncomfortable with it. My Adobe image is a compilation of one of my local beach photos and Picasso's "The Sisters"

A Cold Day At The Beach

Sorry Maestro, hope you are not offended by my satire.

Summer Of Colour - Brown

2011-07-12T05:35:00.013+10:00

Brown is not really a favourite colour of mine, tho' I guess it IS sort of 'summery'. Tanned skin, dry grasses, iced tea.... there are many summer images come to mind. Kristin has chosen brown for this week's challenge so I'll kick off with, not my own work, a painting I have on my wall by Aboriginal artist Yondee just to get myself into a brown mood.

Witchetty Grubs, 90 x 90 cm

Then perhaps a photo from my morning walk...

Scribbly Gum bark

... and while I'm at it, perhaps an altered image. I love Photoshop!

Leaves

Have managed to get a little pink and green in there.

Of course wooden beads are gorgeous too... perhaps with a fragment of shell attached?

This is an asymmetrical necklace, with white and brown wooden beads. The largest white bead is actually polished bone.

I am so looking forward to next week... RED! Who doesn't love that colour?