A Peek Inside Mary Ann's Studio

Wednesday Morning Ritual....Red Thread

2012-02-01T06:38:00.000-08:00

I spent the morning stringing red thread over and around, up and down this piece.

I'm eagerly looking ahead to a four day break from work....excited to spend the time making art.

Making Birds

2012-01-29T16:32:00.000-08:00

That little voice in my head told me that we needed birds. This morning and this afternoon, I made birds. I'm using paper clay, a self drying claylike substance made from paper pulp. So far, so good. I plan to paint and add various embellishments but this is what they look like so far. Today has been a fun, freeing day.

Happy creating!

Saturday afternoon, art & iMovie

2012-01-28T16:38:00.000-08:00

I thought it might be fun to create a video of me creating art.....since I'm just learning how to do this, I'm starting with baby steps. This is a 2 minute version of my afternoon. Enjoy!

Wednesday Morning Ritual....Steps & Spindles

2012-01-25T06:35:00.000-08:00

This little piece is progressing slowly but with quality steps therefore I am pleased. It is nice to feel relaxed as I work and know that I have time to let it grow slowly. When I look at the individual parts I have feelings of completeness but when I look at the whole, I know I have some distance yet to bridge. It's inspiring and fun to live with it, study and try to figure out the next little step that will further pull it together as a cohesive piece. I have found that my plans sometimes change from day to day....what seemed like a possibility yesterday has now changed to something else. What I had decided against over the weekend has taken shape today. This morning I added the steps that I've worked on for the last few days. I also painted some short spindles that I found over the weekend and glued them on. This photo shows the piece laying sideways being pressed by books...encouraging the glue to stick. I will follow up in a couple days with reinforcing screws.

Sunday Morning Treasure Hunting

2012-01-22T16:44:00.000-08:00

Amy & I headed out early this morning on a mission to have fun and find loot. We were searching for the kind of treasure that you have to dig for and the kind of stuff that inspires dreams.

I found....some beautiful old keys, key plates, knobs & locks.

Amy found.....some watch guts.

I found some old wooden blocks.

I also found a handful of stair spindles, a couple curved table legs and some old twine. Amy found a couple Ball jars for her collection and and old meat slicer. We had a fun morning. All of the above except the Ball jars and the meat slicer will eventually make it's way into a piece of Mary Ann Crago art. I'm feeling energized and inspired this Sunday evening. Happy creating!

Totem photos...progress

2012-01-20T10:31:00.000-08:00

I made the decision this morning to move on with it and start gluing things. In my world glue means commitment. It means that there is no turning back or second guessing. No more pining away, analyzing, wondering what the best stack would be. I could very well pine away at this forever and never get anything done....thanks to the perfectionist in me. Get on with it! Isn't that what the fortune from a few days ago told me to do?

The small wood scroll-y pieces have taken on the role of wings (or something). I've had them for such a long time and I'm happy that they finally have a place other than in my collection. It's hard to let them go from the pile of cool stuff but they sing in their new home (this piece). My mom & I found them over a year ago at Columbus Architectural Salvage. The drawer pull on top is a recent find from the Shoe Factory in Lancaster. Amy found the smallest box on top at a recent Scott's Antique show and the others I've collected here and there along the way. I think the pedestal for the egg is a discarded bullet casing but it could be something else. I really don't know what it is but it was interesting and seemed to be the perfect thing to hold the little egg. I recently found it in a drawer of old screws & junk that I collected from the my Dad's stuff. The bottom box will house another box with a sliding top. The box will be on its side and the top will held open with a string/nail/knob contraption. The box in the center will hold some kind of circular object.

I am excited to see & feel the evolution of the piece.

The final piece will be part of CAW: Creating Our History at Fort Hayes Shot Tower Gallery in Columbus, Ohio March 5-April 20 2012.

Wednesday Morning Ritual...Totems

2012-01-18T06:44:00.000-08:00

This morning I am thinking about totems and I'm not sure why or how these visions have surfaced but they have...so I've started exploring. I've found my momentum paralyzed by my feeling of not knowing as I try to figure out the process for this new piece. The initial plan was to stack long skinny boxes end to end to create a tall skinny totem like piece. I just realized that I've been so focused on how to connect them that I've failed to think deeper....what story do I want to tell? I will figure out the other stuff when the time comes. Being aware of that paralyzed feeling is a step in the right direction. Recognizing that something has nearly stopped that creative flow where it is....keeps me moving through this tricky spot.

(I will post photos soon - blogger is not cooperating this morning!)

Can you be in love with a painting?

2012-01-15T08:07:00.000-08:00

Well, I am. This piece has consumed my painting time over the last week and there is something about it that just makes me melt. I think it's nearly done so I'm planning to give it a little break, let it rest and wait for that inner voice that let's me know I can let it go.

I love painting, it makes me so happy.

Happy creating!

Freak Show

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2012-01-11T06:37:00.000-08:00

Today's electronically generated fortune said, "The key to getting ahead is to get started." And there you have it, you just have to muscle through and make it happen.

Experiencing that day after Christmas kind of feeling after hanging the show on Saturday, I realize it's time once again to get to work. I pulled out a couple pieces that have been waiting patiently for me and depending on how long you've been reading, you may recognize both of them. The one that I quickly titled some time ago, Celestial Hammock has found deeper, richer color and has been nestled safely into an old dresser drawer. There will be more to come with this one but I'm taking my time, letting it evolve slowly. The other was also quickly titled Freak Show quite some time ago. I spent the morning adding a little paint. I'm curious to see where this one goes...not quite sure yet.

Both pieces (and another) will be part of an upcoming CAW show in March. Stay tuned for details.

Celestial Hammock

Freak Show

Mary Ann Crago at the Columbus Metropolitan Library

2012-01-07T12:52:00.000-08:00

Visual Learning: Connecting Readers To Art is a collaboration between the Ohio Art League and the Columbus Metropolitan Library. The exhibition space is located on the second floor in the Arts & Media Division of the library and features the work of OAL members on a rotating basis. My work is on display now and will be on exhibit through the end of March 2012. Please visit CML's Main Library at 96 S Grant Ave to view the show. Library hours are 9am - 9pm Monday -Thursday, 9am-6pm Friday & Saturday, 1-5 Sunday. All pieces are for sale, please contact me directly if you are interested in purchasing a piece.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2012-01-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

Spent time last night and this morning working on Hope Chest 5. I explored the idea of binding the piece together with string and thread. I didn't think too much about this piece as I created, I just let it happen. *Note to self (and all of you) - magical things always happen when you follow your heart and creative intuition when making art.

#760 continued...

2012-01-03T17:51:00.000-08:00

And so it continues....I was wide awake last night hours after I'd gone to bed thinking about this piece. And so this evening I added the striped ball and the nails. I'm not sure of the story....parts of it remind me of air travel or it could be that all of the endless chatter about the upcoming election is finally getting to me (notice the hanging chads).

String.....&.....nails.....hmmmm.....

Monday Night...All Tied Up

2012-01-02T17:11:00.000-08:00

I would like to start this post by saying that over the last two weeks I've ingested a ridiculous amount of sugar and just tonight enjoyed quite a lot of cherry Coke before I settled in so....this post may seem a little scattered!

The piece above is titled 760 and is a recent addition to the family. I think my favorite thing about it is the string that somehow appears to be holding everything together.

In addition to celebrating with friends, I spent the weekend pulling together loose ends, painting, mounting canvases to drawers, painting edges, wiring, photographing, formatting and the list goes on.

I have one more piece to both start and finish before Saturday (it's a small one so don't worry). I also have to pull together the details for one more piece if it is going to hang in the upcoming show....the painting on canvas is done but the piece as a whole is not and I'm not sure what it needs.

I have been intrigued for a while by the idea of things suspended. As you know, I started exploring the idea through my work by drawing and painting spheres and bundles that are suspended. Over the last few weeks I've started incorporating actual string into the pieces. I am so excited and filled with ideas. Stay tuned...

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-12-28T06:27:00.000-08:00

My morning was spent tweaking & fluffing pieces in progress. I also had fun experimenting with a new tool/present I received for Christmas. Amy gave me an old box of metal letter & number stencils that I love. This morning I played.

Christmas Monday in the Studio

2011-12-26T15:19:00.000-08:00

Being off today in observance of Christmas meant a day filled with stuff other than library work. I've been a little sluggish over the last week and haven't spent much time in the studio or in blog land. This afternoon I flipped the switch and got myself upstairs.

I'm in the final prepping stages of my upcoming Visual Learning show at CML's Main Library. Today I spent a little time working on the piece pictured above. Most of the pieces in the show will be assemblage - the smallest measuring 4"x5" and the largest measuring 18"X36". I will also have a few paintings on canvas in the show as well. I feel that the paintings help tell the story for the group of pieces.

In preparation for the show, I had to write an artist bio & statement which was tricky. The statement below hopefully represents well this newest collection of work.

My work is contemplative and playful. While some pieces are purely decorative exploring color, texture and design others delve into the inner workings of an abstract environment through surreal narratives that strive to engage the viewer's sense of mystery. Over the last year my love of collecting old things morphed with my love for creating and this new collection of work emerged. My work seeks to not only bring something new to the moment but to celebrate the inherent beauty of the world as we know it through its slight re-purposing as art.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-12-07T06:29:00.000-08:00

I don't have many words this morning but wanted to share what I've been working on this Wednesday before work. This canvas will sit inside an old wooden drawer once complete and the drawer will hang.

Tuesday = Maps, Tacks and a Little Magic

2011-12-06T17:09:00.000-08:00

The Day Is Here...North Market Holiday Open House

2011-12-03T01:17:00.000-08:00

Come see me this weekend at the North Market Holiday Open House. Hours are today (Saturday) 8-5 and Sunday 12-5. If you come for a visit, mention this blog post and I'll give you a 10% discount. I hope to see everyone there.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-11-30T06:27:00.001-08:00

Busy is my new normal as I'm trying to spend some time (even if it's just to paint edges) in the studio everyday in preparation for my January show. This morning I painted edges, sanded boxes, finished up a couple things for this weekend's North Market show. Busy, busy, busy. I wish I had more time this morning but the library is in my immediate future. I'll be back!

Good News

2011-11-24T06:15:00.000-08:00

I learned yesterday that I was selected to be part of Visual Learning: Connecting Readers to Art (a collaboration between the Ohio Art League and the Columbus Metropolitan Library). My show will feature my assemblage work and will hang January - April at CML's Main Library. I am grateful for the opportunity, super excited and a little freaked out. The next 6 weeks are going to be crazy. Big plans ahead.

(Early) Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-11-23T03:25:00.001-08:00

This morning started a little earlier than usual 1. because I couldn't sleep and 2. because my work day is starting a little earlier today due to the holiday. I have come to discover that laying in bed trying to sleep does me no good and is usually not fruitful. I've tried to convince myself that when I find myself in these situations, I should just get up and do something productive. This morning my eyes popped open at about 4:15 am (which is quite strange because I am not really a morning person...usually b/c I'm laying in bed trying to sleep until way past midnight)... so after thinking about it for a few minutes I found my way to the coffee maker and then to the studio. I've had quite a productive morning and am feeling quite good about the work that I've accomplished already this Wednesday morning, eve of Thanksgiving. Gobble, gobble.....

Assembly Line Sunday

2011-11-20T13:28:00.001-08:00

The more times I make something, the more efficient I get...at least when it comes to making tons of somethings...like hanging ornaments. My process became extremely efficient this afternoon.

(Back story) I took a few of my ornaments to show my work peeps and received awesome feedback and many requests to purchase pre show so I thought maybe I should try to make a few more for the 2-day North Market show that is quickly approaching so that I have enough for that weekend.

Although I've been disciplined enough to spend the afternoon in the studio, I've not felt super inspired so I spent the day doing all the nitty gritty detail stuff for the new pieces (drilling, sanding, painting, stringing) and when the feeling comes back to make pretty things, they'll be ready for me and I won't have to do any of the stuff that breaks down the flow....just make art.

2 weeks and counting...yikes!

A Sweet Little Thing

2011-11-19T18:58:00.000-08:00

too big

just right....otherwise known as 'One In a Little White Box'

I spent most of the afternoon and evening working towards a finished piece for the upcoming Thumb Box show at the OAL gallery. As the first one progressed I realized it was going to be slightly bigger than it is allowed to be to hang in the show (max 6"x6"). So....it was a nice Thumb Box warm up and instead, it will travel with me to the North Market show in a couple weeks. I did end the evening with a lovely little piece titled "One In a Little White Box" for Thumb Box. The warm up was well worth it as I love this sweet little thing.

One Night: Fiction...tonight

2011-11-18T11:45:00.000-08:00

My painting titled By Chance will be featured during tonight's live auction at One Night: Fiction.

This unique event will feature Ohio’s leading, contemporary, professional artists’ work in silent and live auction. The elegant Special Patron Preview focuses on serious art patrons. ONE NIGHT: FICTION is in support of the state’s premier, visual arts, member service organization – the Ohio Art League, working on behalf of artists for the past 100 years.
The silent auction will be featured and include original works of art made by Ohio artists. The Patron Preview includes food from Bleu + Fig, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, an open bar, live music and first dibs on art. The main event includes music, cash bar, and attendees dressed to thrill. Local DJ’s Jason Lyman, Tristan Seufert, and George Brazil. An eclectic crowd including artists, patrons and supporters of Ohio’s diverse cultural community. A live auction held by auctioneers from Garth's Auctions. And, most importantly, lots of original, affordable art not shown in any previous One Night events.

Visit the Ohio Art League site for more details and to purchase tickets.

Busy...busy...busy

2011-11-11T17:11:00.001-08:00

Mini assemblage pieces, switch plates and other fun little pieces like the two pictured just above have kept me busy this week. The North Market Holiday Open House is just three weeks away and still so much to do.

Save this date...

2011-11-08T11:18:00.001-08:00

Save the date for this fun show and do plan to come out for a visit. I am going to have lots of new items and you won't want to miss it. Stay tuned for more details and a special offer for all of my blog friends.

Follow your heart

2011-11-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I decided to continue on the journey my little ornaments started last weekend. I've used some of the same ideas in this larger piece. It's a combination of photo (I took), painting, constructing, a few words. I like it...it was fun to relax and just let it happen.

Inspired by a fortune cookie

2011-11-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

I've been super inspired as I work towards this North Market show in December. I've continued experimenting with these hanging assemblage/ornaments. Today I was inspired by a fortune I received once. I have a box full of fortunes that meant enough to me for me to keep. I see more of these in my future. Who couldn't use a few inspiring words every now & then?

Gearing up for a North Market holiday show....

2011-10-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to share that I've been selected to participate in the 2011 North Market Holiday Craft Extravaganza & Open House on December 3rd & 4th. I plan to have many of my smaller items for sale (magnets & switchplates) in addition to my mixed media assemblage pieces. I'll probably throw in a couple small paintings too. I'm quite inspired this afternoon and have been playing with a few new ideas like these ornaments/hanging assemblage pieces that I plan to show & sell as well. Stay tuned for details.

Dad continued...

2011-10-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

Dad continued...

2011-10-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-10-26T08:08:00.001-07:00

This morning I'm taking a little time to remember my Dad and I'm working on a special piece for my mom for Christmas. I've intended to work on a 'Dad' piece for a while but have found it a bit challenging. This morning the piece pictured started to take shape. Memories of my dad kind of glow in our lives (me, my mom, my siblings...anyone who knew him as he is not easily forgotten) so I used a little gold paint to frame his photo. He could also be kind of prickly so I encircled his picture with gold painted carpet tacks. :) More to come....

Ending the day on a POSITIVE

2011-10-20T18:37:00.000-07:00

The latest in lovely books I brought home from work, Art Saves: Stories, Inspiration and Prompts Sharing the Power of Art by Jenny Doh. This one is a good one, I can feel it.

Today started off a little rocky. Yesterday and the day before ended a little rocky (well at least my ego thinks so) but I couldn't let the previous blog post sit out there as the last word from this camp for days until the next one shows up. I'd like to not go to bed with that looming tonight so here I am. Anyway, after much talking, writing, thinking I've come back to the reality and beautiful conclusion that making art that feeds my soul is what is most important. Everything else will follow. A wise friend once told me (this afternoon in fact) "Do it for you and the universe will take care of the rest." That's the plan. Maybe I should paint that on a canvas and hang it on my wall.

In Transition

2011-10-20T04:24:00.000-07:00

I'm officially in transition (still)...trying to figure out what the next step might be. Struggling against myself and trying to overcome the resistance that keeps me firmly planted in my thoughts and not out there doing it.

Doing "it"...doing something with my art, getting it out there, contacting people, asking. Why is it so hard? What is it that keeps me from doing it? I think it's partly the fear of not doing it the right way which is an ongoing theme in my life. I'd like to get over that at some point but odds are slim. I am a bit of a perfectionist and that's a killer most of the time.

Goals. A wise friend asked me recently if I thought it would help to set some goals for myself. Yes, it probably would but sometimes I don't even know where to start.

To do list....set a few goals.

And then there is the rejection....which I hate. It's hard to hear, "Not Accepted".....which translates in my brain as "Not Good Enough". I hate it but it's part of the game, right? That's what someone told me yesterday....."At least you are in the game."

Sometimes, the game sucks.

Wednesday Morning Ritual...& thinking about my next post

2011-10-19T09:42:00.001-07:00

Yes.....there have been very few words lately but I'm thinking....and in the meantime I'm painting. While you wait, please enjoy a couple pictures from my Wednesday morning.

New stuff from the last week with a '3' theme...

2011-10-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

Once Upon A Time There Were Three

Hope Chest 3.

Friday morning in the studio

2011-10-14T09:37:00.000-07:00

Wednesday Morning Ritual...No Time To Talk

2011-10-12T06:39:00.001-07:00

No time to talk this morning other than to say...I spent the morning not listening to my inner Negative Nellie and just powered through working on this little piece and I love it so far.

Did someone say Etsy?

2011-10-10T17:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, my Etsy shop is finally back up and running! Check it out.

I Never Had A Hope Chest

2011-10-09T13:45:00.000-07:00

I started working on this little mixed media piece this afternoon. It all began with half a craft box and a wooden cube. I had the idea last week to adhere a piece of drawing and or printed paper, painting, something to one side of a craft cube. I just liked the way it looked (in my head) and it reminded me of the painted blocks I played with as a child. Although I had the idea last week I didn't actually do anything with it until today. Just experimenting....I found a piece of printed paper that I liked, cut it to the right size and glued it on. I painted up the other sides of the cube, found another little box to place it in and that's how it began. I've already titled this one Hope Chest 1. (because there will be more) and because the outer box is part of a little cedar souvenir box. The cedar box reminds me of cedar chests that remind me hope chests and who couldn't use a little more hope? Any who....still working on this one but here are a few photos of the journey.

#775

2011-10-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

Productive afternoon in the studio has led to the (near) completion of #775.

Possible narrative....#775 is full of goodness and has decided to save some of it for later.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-10-05T06:29:00.000-07:00

And so begins another adventure. I've gathered a little bit of everything as I start working on this next piece. Beautiful little yellow boxes, red glittery printed paper, black gesso, Golden fluid zinc white & small striped balls. Big plans for this little one.

Book of the Week

2011-10-04T16:58:00.000-07:00

Art & Fear: Observations On the Perils (and Rewards) of Art Making by David Bayles & Ted Orland....only just recently started reading this one but...so far, so good.

"The function of the overwhelming majority of your artwork is simply to teach you how to make the small fraction of your artwork that soars."

One more day...Sunday

2011-10-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of vacation and although I'm ready to go back tomorrow I've enjoyed the freedom that being on vacation has allowed me. I've also enjoyed the fantasy of Mary Ann Crago, FT artist. I've painted (or something related) almost everyday this last week and I love the feeling of my art in motion, building momentum...one idea growing from another. Ideas have bloomed over the last few days that will carry me easily into the winter & spring. I've also spent time writing silly stuff with my new metal stamping kit and painting little black & white balls. (see photo and yes....I'm a little kooky sometimes) These particular words were inspired by a weird little painting I was working on that looked as if it was filled with smoke.

I spent the morning with an old friend talking art (thanks Mary Jo) and I spent the afternoon exploring a chilly Delaware swap meet with Amy. We found a wonderful pile of boxes & drawers for a whopping $10. Quite the deal and full of potential.

I did find the awesome yellow boxes on Etsy earlier this week and couldn't resist.

I'm taking a breath, gathering thoughts and trying to figure out what's next. I feel that my relationship with the gallery is changing and drawing to an end which is different and little scary but I want more. I recently joined CAW and I'm looking forward to the opportunities. I'm gathering photos & completing applications for a holiday open house at North Market (hopefully I'll make it in) and a couple upcoming OAL shows. I'm in transition (I seem to find myself here quite a lot).

What's next? I'm trying to follow the sound advice of a friend who told me to make art and the rest will come. My immediate plans = make art and maintain this awesome vacation momentum. It will be challenging but I'm up for it.

Lucky Number 7

2011-09-30T07:21:00.000-07:00

Wednesday (afternoon) Ritual

2011-09-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

After spending the morning with my mom I was inspired to come home and start working on something new. A book I recently checked out titled Drawn to Stitch talks about using line in sewing & embroidery. I also found many of the ideas useful and applicable to my art as well. A section I read last night talks about being aware of lines around us...in nature, in our everyday. Somehow from this small blurb the idea of ladders & ladder rungs jumped into my head and onto the pages of my sketchbook. The small sketches inspired this piece that I just started this afternoon.

I've also been obsessed with the idea of incorporating text into my pieces and purchased a large steel stamping set (see picture) that might help me find my way on this journey. I used them today for the first time and found them quite lovely (Amy, that was for you)!

Maybe this piece will be titled Step Up....hmmm....kind of sounds like a bad movie title.

First Things First

2011-09-28T13:30:00.001-07:00

This piece is done...complete with primitive hanging apparatus. :)

'To Do' List Revisted

2011-09-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

Enjoying week 2 of a late September vacation. We spent most of week 1 in Michigan and I'm spending all of week 2 working on art.

I am pleased to report that after spending Sunday & Monday painting....my studio is a new lovely shade of gray..."thunderstorm" gray to be very specific.

Also pleased to report that after a quick trip to the library to pick up reserves, my Tuesday afternoon has been spent working on this lovely new box.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-09-14T06:15:00.001-07:00

Title????

Reminds Me of Christmas

Although I wanted to paint this morning I spent most of it taking & formatting photos for the upcoming OAL Fall Juried show. Entry deadline is quickly approaching and I will not be around towards the end of next week so I figured there's no time like the present. It's always hard to figure out what pieces to enter as you only get two shots to make it happen. Here are the two pieces I selected. My entry is almost ready...just need to figure out a title for the last piece and my entry is ready to go.

Monday Night Football...

2011-09-12T16:56:00.000-07:00

...I am not at all interested in so painting tonight seems like a good idea. The newest piece that I started yesterday is at that fragile place where things could be really great or things could go really horribly wrong. It intimidates me...alot. Because of this I'm stalling...letting that evil resistance get the best of me. I've printed photos of what my new Friday haircut might look like, I've paid bills online, I've renewed my OAL membership. I've done just about everything but paint. Time & daylight (that I prefer to paint with) is running out. Who will win the battle tonight?

to be continued...

Productive Weekend...Feeling Inspired

2011-09-11T13:57:00.001-07:00

Saturday afternoon in the studio

2011-09-10T12:23:00.001-07:00

Spent the last 5 hours working at this piece. I'm pleased with it at this point but we'll see where it goes from here (if anywhere else). I'm trying to be more aware of internal dialog & thoughts and as I create I'm trying to push through, think about taking it to the next level. If I get a whim to add red dots....I add red dots....If I get the idea to add the number 3...I add a number 3. I think there have been too many times in the past when I've stopped short of something awesome. My new goal is to achieve awesome. Here's a little peek at what it could be....

Excited about studio time this afternoon...

2011-09-10T05:25:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things in the world is to have no plans on a day off. We are meeting friends for dinner this evening but this afternoon is mine to work in the studio and I can't wait. I will return with photos....

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-09-07T06:36:00.001-07:00

on the journey...

Three Day Weekend Joy

2011-09-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

Spent Sunday afternoon painting and I love knowing I still have one more day. I wish this was my everyday. Yes, we all have the power to influence our own destiny, our own life but sometimes things like mortgages & health insurance get in the way. One day....I will be a full time painter, one day.

Newest Piece...in three parts

2011-09-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

The War of Art....

2011-09-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

Recently while at work a book crossed over the desk that sparked my interest. The War of Art....what artist, writer, musician....librarian ;) could resist such a title? I added my name to the request list and waited patiently for my turn to borrow. My copy showed up a few days later.

The book's entire title is The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles and it is written by Steven Pressfield. The book describes familiar situations that (I'm assuming) all of us can relate to (artist or not). You know those things that we say were going to do, know we should do but never do? This book talks about all aspects of this resistance and gives glimpses of the unlived life and how it comes to be (and hopefully how to overcome it). I still have about a quarter of the book to read so we'll see. Often times my biggest enemy when creating is not creating. Momentum is the thing that I struggle constantly to keep alive.

Some of my favorite gleans from the book so far...

"Never forget: This very moment, we can change our lives. There never was a moment, and never will be, when we are without the power to alter our destiny......" interesting and true....

"It is commonplace among artists and children at play that they're not aware of time or solitude while they're chasing their vision. The hours fly. The sculptress and the tree-climbing tyke both look up blinking when Mom calls, "Suppertime!" ........totally relatable as I can spend hours (like 8 or 9) in the studio chasing that vision and not even realize the time has slipped away until it's gone

"The counterfeit innovator is wildly self-confident. The real one is scared to death." ....welcome to my life

There is a lot more to this lovely little book than the few lines above that struck me hard enough to post them to this blog, you should check it out for yourself.

Weather to play hooky by...

2011-08-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

Cool nights & crisp mornings make me want to play hooky. This weather is so inspiring and it makes me want to be outside (doing anything). It also inspires me to paint. I spent the morning (before work) working through some ideas for the next pieces.

Creating In the Dark

2011-08-21T04:39:00.000-07:00

I was drawn out of bed this morning at 4am by a stark white canvas sitting on the easel in my studio. Now just a few hours later, I have a lovely drawing started, one cup of coffee gone and enjoying the delicious smells of breakfast potatoes & french toast coming from Pie Hole's kitchen. It's going to be a good day.

Celestial Hammock

2011-08-19T11:29:00.000-07:00

This is the latest piece and it has nothing to do with mushrooms as I indicated the next piece might. It is magical for whatever reason and that's enough for me. Hanging from the center is some kind of celestial hammock, cocoon or bundled treasure. I've been quite obsessed with these shapes for a bit but this is the first time I've painted one of them. Drawing & painting the bundles simultaneously creeps me out & makes me happy. Kind of weird, huh?

Welcome to my world.

Feeling Inspired

2011-08-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

Feeling inspired this Wednesday morning by magical things found in my backyard last night. I am also painting edges, making sketches, pasting canvas and thinking.

I found this lovely little mushroom in the backyard last night and know that it was there to inspire the next piece.

Visions of twigs & string

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

A weekend filled with library work allows me to have this Monday off. It's only noon and I've already spent hours in the studio. I'd like to refer to this piece as a 'second chancer' because it is painted on top of another painting that I grew tired of. Gessoed twice over the last week first black and then white. The imagery is heavily influenced by photos taken years ago at a park near my house. Pictured are bare branches standing tall in a cool wintery landscape holding tight to a random piece of red & white striped string. I can almost feel the cold and hear the little ribbon flapping around in the wind. In a way they are friends who have found one another and are holding tight rather than face the unknown. It's also kind of magical that this sweet little string found it's way to these branches it's as if they were meant to be.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-08-03T06:25:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday morning I found my way upstairs to my studio to this piece that has been waiting for me. I've been working on this one off and on over the last few weeks but have not touched it for days. I find myself in that familiar place where I question what I'm doing and want to do more. The goal is to recognize this place, know that it has the power to envelope everything and keep me from moving on, causing me to be stuck in the mud and move through it. Painting this morning helped. I am liking this piece more and know I will love it by the time I reach the end. It is titled 'Reminds Me of Christmas' because it does.

Still on my "To Do" list is to patch walls and paint my studio. Fall will bring the time I need to accomplish this stuff.

Also on my "To Do" list....get out of this rut and find more ways to get involved & get my art out there.

Looking ahead...

2011-07-12T10:04:00.001-07:00

This weekend on our many trips to and from the festival I was inspired by groups of huge hay bundles strewn about the fields we passed. I can't help but think of Monet's hay stack paintings. Whatever comes from these sketches will probably not resemble the latter in any way but I did find these shapes inspirational. Excited about the possibilities and to see what follows.....

My TO DO list

2011-07-11T15:37:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderfully successful Lily Fest. Thank you to everyone who made it down. People enjoyed the new work. I sold 12 pieces, lots of switch plates & magnets. It was our best Lily Fest yet. I have one vacation day left until it's back to the real world. Planning to spend tomorrow working on #1 and #5 from the list below and I'm looking forward to the next opportunity.

To Do List:

1. Organize & clean studio

2. Patch holes in studio walls

3. Paint studio

4. Hang shelves

5. Create art

Lily Fest 2011

2011-07-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

July 2011

Friday, July 8th 11:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 9th 10:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 10th 10:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m.

*************************************

SPECIAL EVENTS

Tuesday, July 5th. The gardens will be open to all who wish to just see the gardens, those who wish to photograph the gardens and to any who need special assistance. On hand to answer your questions about photography will be WILD OHIO MAGAZINE photographer Tim Daniel.

Sunday, July 10th. "Come back to Grandmothers garden, a history of gardening. This will take place on the Lower Pond Stage.

Go to www.lilyfest.com for details, photos & directions to the festival.

Changing Up My Display

2011-07-05T12:29:00.000-07:00

I've lost track of time but I think this will be year 5 for us at Lily Fest and all this time we've used nearly the same setup. Yes, we upgraded the tent along the way and added things to make our lives easier like the mesh tarp that we now use as a gallery wall in the woods but overall the setup has stayed very much the same. This year, I'm changing it up a bit because I have these wonderful new boxes to show everyone and I want them to feel lovely and at home. I spent the morning working through display ideas. An old dresser drawer will make the perfect display board for these new sweet pieces. I am getting so excited for Lily Fest, come see me this weekend! For details & directions visit the Lily Fest website.

Lily Fest July 8th, 9th, 10th

2011-07-04T12:32:00.000-07:00

For those reading who have not experienced Lily Fest you should come down this year and celebrate the festival's 20th birthday. Located in the beautiful Hocking Hills just an hour south of Columbus, easy drive & guaranteed fun time. I will have paintings, mixed media boxes, magnets & light switch plates for sale. You will find nearly 60 fine artists, crafters & gardeners, lots of photo opportunities and a great group of people. For more information about festival hours, schedule and directions visit the Lily Fest website. I hope to see you there!

Friday in the Studio

2011-06-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

These things are just screaming for some gold leaf!

One More...

2011-06-22T14:42:00.001-07:00

Lily Fest is on my mind....always. My brain is working overtime to figure out all the little details. The time after I've gone to bed and the time before I've fallen asleep becomes the time when crazy (& not so crazy) ideas are born. I then get up the next morning, go downstairs and explain to Amy my latest idea. Sometimes she looks at me with a weird look in her eyes, head cocked to the side. Other times she's right there with me. She often acts as my 'crazy idea' barometer. Most crazy ideas from the last week have related to water proofing ourselves, our tent and my work.

I've finished most of the small things except for a few minor tweaks and finishing touches here and there and now can coast and create one more piece before the show. The above sketch is my jumping off point for the next one. I'm planning to use a small maple panel along with spindles scavenged from my dad's workshop. It's safe to assume that there will be round shapes, carpet nails, gold paint & gold leaf. Everything will be housed in a cool little rectangular drawer that I found a while back. The drawer is so cool I'm almost afraid to use it but it will be awesome...it has to be. I'm excited to spend the last couple weeks working on something new.

Count Down

2011-06-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

Lily Fest is just 2+ weeks away. Praying for some dry weather but preparing for rain. Rain at Lily Fest totally stresses me out. I purchased brand spanking new rain ponchos for us (Amy requested orange) and am waiting on a delivery of tarps & waterproofing supplies. Planning to bag art so that nothing gets wet. If we can't stop the rain, at least we can outsmart it. Keep your fingers crossed that we'll get a break in this weather by then.

Getting Ready for Lily Fest 2011

2011-06-16T06:20:00.001-07:00

After being in denial for months, the reality of Lily Fest being just weeks away has set in. I've been working diligently on magnets, switch plates & ART. These are two of my most recent mixed media (but mostly cut paper) pieces. Watch for more Lily Fest details to follow in future posts and in the mean time read more at the Lily Fest website.

Monday holiday spent painting

2011-05-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

Libraries were closed today for Memorial Day which allowed me to spend most of the afternoon in the studio. Yesterday I spent a good bit of time putting things away, throwing things out and organizing so I felt ready to come right in today and create. In my fit of organization I touched, stacked and re-stacked my ever growing old box collection. Touching them must have been the trick as I spent most of the day working on a piece that I may title Homage to An Old Friend or something less stuffy...we'll see. I used one of the smallest cigar boxes from the collection along with the bottom from a newer craft box. The star of the piece is a small photo collage of one of my pods. I've since added some metal eyelets, paint, gold leaf, pencil and a handmade twisty wire hanger. I think it's nearly done....not bad for a few free hours on a Monday afternoon. Below is the piece at it's midway point. Also pictured is the piece titled Captive Audience (completed) from this last week and my collection of goodies in one of my most treasured antique boxes.

Friday morning in the studio

2011-05-27T07:42:00.000-07:00

'Eleven'

Sometime last week I started working on a piece that gradually became more and more complex as time went on. Although cool things were happening, it seemed very disjointed and no matter how hard I tried I could not get it to feel unified. At some point I pulled out a second panel and another piece was instantly born. Over the last few days I've continued working on both pieces and am quite pleased to say they are evolving nicely (and separately). Pictured above are the pieces. The piece with the striped ball is titled Eleven. The other is still on it's way.

A Little Creepy Freak Show

2011-05-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

Bad Girls for Good Art

2011-05-13T12:01:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in a recent post, my piece titled Gravity is in OAL's 100th Annual Spring Juried Exhibition currently on display at (CML) Main Library's Carnegie Gallery. The opening was last night, gallery filled with people and good art. My piece was awarded OAL's Bad Girls for Good Art award which is AWESOME! I am flattered and inspired. If you find yourself at or near Main Library in May or June, stop in and take a look. It's definitely worth the trip.....and while you are there, check out a book! :)

Todd Slaughter's (juror) piece hanging in the lobby of Main Library.

Wednesday Morning Ritual.....Floating

2011-05-11T06:16:00.000-07:00

Over the last couple days I've spent time preparing a new canvas (a very long skinny shape 12"x 48"). I've continued exploring the striped spheres that seem to be an obsession lately. In this piece they are floating, like balloons but at the same time they are tethered to lines than run the length of the canvas. Stay tuned.....

It's Getting To Be That Time.....Yikes!

2011-05-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

After living in denial for oh, the last two months or so it's like I've just now realized that Lily Fest is just a couple months away and I'm feeling a little light in the art department. I need to get busy & create. I worked for a couple hours this afternoon finishing up the piece pictured in the last post and I also spent some time contemplating the rather large stack of boxes I've amassed. Look out May, here I come.

New Books, New Art, New Show...

2011-05-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have yet to attend an Agora event presented by The Couchfire Collective, you still have time to experience this amazing community art event. I will have three pieces on display at the show in May. Check out Agora for more details.

I spent time this morning working on a piece that I started a couple weeks ago. I like where it's going. I need to find a better bridge between the bottom area and the top but it's coming along.

Today I checked out a couple new books on mixed media technique recently published by North Light...one of my favorites. Already with just a quick glance through they look promising or at the very least slightly inspiring. Flavor For Mixed Media and Surface Treatment Workshop.

100th Ohio Art League Annual Spring Juried Exhibition

2011-04-20T05:17:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that my piece titled Gravity will be part of OAL's Spring Juried Exhibition at CML's Carnegie Gallery. Check out OAL for details.

Friday afternoon in the studio

2011-04-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

My little beach inspired painting...getting close.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-04-13T06:10:00.000-07:00

Christmas-y cigar box..

blender pen...

I'm following the inspiration this morning. Over the weekend my mom delivered to me an armload of boxes my aunt scavenged during a trip to Florida. Some of the boxes weren't really what I was looking for but there were a few gems in the stack. I was instantly thrilled and inspired. The box that spoke to me the most was a little (almost square) cigar box from a Christmas long ago. Most of the paper had been removed, hinges and primitive lock still in place. I sanded it lightly to remove loose paper and years of dust and started thinking of what its future might be.

***side note***

This weekend I made a trip to my favorite art supply store and purchased a few smaller canvases and a few larger canvases. I also found a blender pen that I've read can be used to transfer photo images. The blender pen has not worked as well as I'd hoped but I plan to keep experimenting and hopefully I will find a process that works well for me.

***back to today***

So far in this piece I've added a piece of printed paper in the lid of the box and layered a transfer of one of my photos on top. The photo was taken a few years ago in Wilmington, NC. I actually like the ghost like quality of this transfer. When I transferred the image, I was totally experimenting. I grabbed a photo, grabbed a sketchbook page, smeared the picture with the magic pen ingredients and started rubbing away. The image was very dark to begin with which was the key to success.

Like always...not sure where this piece is headed although I can't wait to get there. I'm taking it one step at a time. Stay tuned....

Pasting Away

2011-04-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

I'm getting ready to do some serious...somethin'.

I smeared paste all over 5 canvases today ranging in size from 4"x6" to 12"x48". Serious painting & creating on the horizon.

My aunt came back from Florida last week with a arm load of old boxes. Serious painting & creating on the horizon.

I need to create but it's hard to lock myself inside on such a beautiful day. Spring is inspiring but challenging as I just want to be outside. I spent a couple hours this afternoon working in the front flower garden.

Serious painting & creating on the horizon (I swear). Stay tuned.

Nearing the End

2011-03-30T06:25:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday morning I worked on some finishing touches. The interior sides of the box were painted, the paper mounted inside and little wood block spacers added to the back of the canvas. I added a few more minor details to the canvas before I glued it in place. I think this piece is done but I'll live with it for a few days and see what it tells me on Friday.

Life's A Circus

2011-03-27T16:28:00.000-07:00

Amy & I spent the morning helping a friend paint her kitchen and I spent most of the afternoon working on art. Today I added more gold leaf to the paper inside the box. At this point the paper is still feeling disconnected from the rest of the piece. I'll try to remedy this as it evolves but not sure what that remedy will be. The edges are painted with 'circus like' red & white stripes and I'll probably do the same on the interior sides. Watercolor was added to both the paper & canvas. I like how the piece is evolving, I just need to find more balance and get all the little pieces working together a little more.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-03-23T07:35:00.001-07:00

I spent a few hours this morning trying to figure out where I'm headed with the latest piece to be titled Circus Act. Usually when I don't know what to do or which direction to head, I paint dots. I painted dots this morning. I also started adding gold leaf. I am going to set a piece of paper (holding the dots & gold leaf) on the inside of the old wooden box (pictured) and then set the canvas on top of the paper. The dots (as usual) represent something magical and quirky. It's like the viewer knows there is something going on in this piece....but it's not at all obvious rather kind of mysterious and funky.

Painting....the house

2011-03-20T05:57:00.000-07:00

I've been busy painting recently but not in the studio.....upstairs in the bathroom and downstairs in the dining room. Spring has sprung and I've been in the mood to spruce things up a bit around here. Although I probably should be upstairs making art, instead I've painted the bathroom and started painting the woodwork downstairs. It's important to feel inspired by your space therefore I'm counting the following projects as creative ones that will lead to something grand.

Today...I will work on art.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-03-16T06:54:00.001-07:00

Circus Act in progress...

Sunday...Daylight Savings...Not Enough Time

2011-03-13T16:34:00.000-07:00

I worked in the studio a little this weekend but not nearly enough. This piece I started late in the afternoon on Sunday. Amy had the idea a while ago of accentuating the pull of gravity on the striped balls that appeared in another painting. I started to explore the idea a bit today.

Wednesday Morning, Here I Am Again.....

2011-03-09T07:34:00.000-08:00

Here is the newest piece. I am using one of the boxes I found in Delaware a while back. Also in the piece is cool drawer hardware found in Springfield. Magic as always has found its way inside.

On another note, I started working on an Etsy shop this morning. It's a little shabby at this point as I have not listed anything yet. I plan to sell (or attempt to sell) some of my smaller items. Although there's nothing to look at yet...here's my Etsy shop address. Mary Ann's Studio Shop

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-02-23T06:55:00.001-08:00

It's easy to throw up a picture and walk away from this post thinking I did something for the week and honored my somewhat casual New Year's resolution of keeping up with this blog. Although I'm not filled with words this morning I thought I'd take a couple minutes to describe what's happening in this piece. It combines imagery from photos I've taken of trees and birds. The circles lining the wire roosts that stretch the width of the piece literally represent birds & loosely represent something more magical. The small gold box that recently arrived to the piece is a resting place for the magic. Probably sounds hokey, huh? Well, it is what it is and it is the thing that drives me & my art. I have truly connected with these little pieces and enjoy them more than anything as they represent what is in my heart. Enjoy your Wednesday and go get creative.

Monday = Day Off.....Painting

2011-02-21T11:18:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Amy & I scoured an antique mall in Springfield and I came away with a few goodies pictured below. Two old boxes, some drawer hardware and a new black porcelain doorknob for the bathroom.

Day off from the library today means time to be creative. It's a gift, I love it! "Birds of a Feather" otherwise known as assemblage #5 progressed a little more this afternoon.

Treading Lightly

2011-02-16T06:35:00.000-08:00

Wednesday mornings = 2+ hours of creative time before I head off to the library. Today I continued working on assemblage piece #5. As always I'm not sure where I'm going so today's itinerary was to proceed with caution as I slowly navigate this new piece. I am also using one of the cool old boxes I found on my scavenger hunt in Delaware. This means added pressure. The box is so cool I don't want to mess it up. We'll see what happens. So far I've experimented with transferring one of my photograph images. I have not experimented with transferring since I was in HS (a very long time ago) and I'm having mixed success. On top of the transfer I added a little drawing and some paint. It will change many more times before I arrive at the ending destination but this is what it looks like today.

Dad Stuff

2011-02-13T12:50:00.000-08:00

I spent the morning with Amy & my mom sifting through my Dad's workshed. He collected a little bit of everything and did not waste an inch of space. It seems as if he anticipated a need and purpose for just about anything you can imagine. I left with a small cardboard box full of stuff....and lots of memories. An old wooden level has found a new home in my studio along with a couple wooden hand drills. His work glasses, an old compass and a cardboard stencil that reads, "DEAN-O" are also new additions to my collection courtesy of my Dad.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

2011-02-09T07:06:00.001-08:00

I spent just a little time painting this morning. Not quite as much momentum as usual as I'm not sure where this piece is going. I like it.....I'm just someplace between here & there.

A Tuesday Afternoon

2011-02-08T14:36:00.000-08:00

Jumping In Feet First

2011-02-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

I had no idea what I wanted to do this afternoon. I sifted through boxes, pulled one out and sanded it. I removed some of its gaudy hardware, filled the holes with wood putty and sat it off to the side to dry. In the meantime I sanded a canvas that's been sitting on the easel for a couple days....looked through some paper scraps, drank iced tea. A couple orange circular shapes caught my attention as they do every time I look through the paper box. This time I took them out and glued them to the canvas. That's where it began.

Putzing Around & Reworking...Waiting For Inspiration to Strike

2011-02-04T13:05:00.000-08:00

I spent my morning searching for wonton wrappers, chipping away ice from the backyard and filling bird feeders. My afternoon was spent reworking an older painting that has been screaming for it for a long time. The piece reworked is Night Flight and is pictured below. I removed (i.e. painted over) some shapes that previously covered the black sky in this piece and I scratched more circles into the surface. I'm pleased with the changes...it finally feels right. And yes, that is actual sunshine coming through the window.

Wednesday Morning Ritual

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

This piece has been hanging around for a while. While listening to the wind blow around this morning, I added some pencil marks and a little gold leaf.

Painting...the Other Way

2011-01-30T14:54:00.000-08:00

I spent most of my afternoon priming & painting door hardware for all of our upstairs doors. Soon we will have knobs & locks that actually work (yeah!). We will have doors that latch (yeah!). No more need for booby traps to keep curious furry friends out of the studio when I'm not around. Although I'm a proud new mama of these lovely oil rubbed bronze knobs & plates....it was painfully slow and I'd much rather been painting...the other way.