DJ's Studio

A Beautiful Morning

2011-10-09T07:34:00.002-04:00

More artwork pics to come soon!
Happy Sunday, Everyone!
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Panel Giveaway Update

2011-06-10T11:27:00.003-04:00

Well, if you read my last post, you know what's been going on in my spiritual life and my artistic life. The two have been intermingled of late, and it's been interesting, to say the least.
I wish I could adequately describe the spiritual warfare I experienced while painting those scenes of Christ. I knew I was doing something right; someone didn't want me to finish them. But I had heavy-duty Reinforcements! So, I just kept painting, and He took care of the rest. Christ being baptized, healing, teaching, holding a child, several close-ups of his face, all different...and his face during the crucifixion was accompanied by my tears. The final painting of his glorious return was difficult. How could I know what that would look like? How could mere paint depict that glorious event on a little 5x7" panel? I wrestled. I worried. Over and over, I heard, "You just keep painting. I'll take care of the rest."
I was told not to discuss them with people in advance, other than posting here on my blog and discussing it with a prayer partner. I was also told not to photograph the completed works, nor was I to sign them. They were to glorify Him, not me. I had to push aside my pride and possession of talent. I would be rewarded later.

The first Community Outreach was on Monday, June 6, 2011 at 6pm on a hot sunny South Carolina evening. Our daily temps have been in the 90's and the sun isn't setting until after eight pm in the evening, so I'll let you use your imagination about the setting in the little community.
Several church members came together with a huge grill, free hot dogs, hamburgers, and all the fixins. There was a variety of chips offered with cold bottled water. Free face-painting and balloons entertained the kids. And there I was...with nineteen 5x7" panels of oil paintings on a table with a sign that read "Free - Take One".
What on earth was I thinking? Would I need to tell people that God had simply told me to do this? They would think I was insane. I wiped sweat from my eyes, ignored the wet hair matted to the back of my neck, and stayed the course.
I kept stepping away from the table to talk to others painting faces and serving food.
As time passed, I noticed there were empty spots on the table. Everyone who chose a panel would approach quietly to thoughtfully select one.
It was...reverence.
I didn't have to explain; they knew.
Occasionally, a child would shyly approach and I would ask,"Would you like a painting?" They would smile and nod, pick out their favorite and I'd wrap it in waxed paper for them.
One woman repeatedly thanked me, and even after saying good-bye and pulling away, she stopped to get my attention from her car window with one more expression of gratitude. After thinking about the event, I now notice the contrasts. If I'd been in a gallery opening, there would have been negative comments, empty compliments, or questions. Maybe one would have sold. And what would I have gained?
And who knows what will happen with those little paintings? I pray they will not become idols, but passed on to others as simple inspiration.
I purchased more little panels to prepare for the next outing in a different location. Please pray for all concerned.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Puzzle Pieces Fit Together

2011-05-08T21:58:00.005-04:00

Why am I amazed when prayers are answered?
Sunday Evening Service, May 1, 2011 6:00 pm - Over the past year or so, we've been attending a church that is about 30 minutes away from our town, where the pastor is a close friend of my husband and there is an authentic atmosphere of simple worship and sincere service/mission outreach to the world. (This is the church where several members & I went to Honduras in 2009 and the awesome miracle occurred. The story is entitled "Travels" on my page at CCS. ) On Sunday night, my husband began a six-week study entitled, "When God's People Pray" by showing a video of Jim Cymbala, pastor of Brooklyn Tabernacle, speaking at a conference about the fact that “My House shall be called a House of Prayer.” In the video, the conference attendees where Jim was speaking experienced such a powerful moment that just viewing the video touched all present. After viewing, everyone there in our little church was at the front altar praying for guidance & a refreshing of spirit for the church and town. Several of us stayed afterward, talking about what God would do in the coming weeks if we used prayer as an initial foundation for everything undertaken by the church. As if the sincere response to the video wasn't enough, as the pastor talked informally about future efforts to reach out to the little town, an ongoing prayer of mine was answered.
PIECES OF THE PUZZLE
2008? 2009? - Several years ago, I had been asking God what I was supposed to do with my paintings. Was I supposed to seek gallery representation? An exhibit? Sell them online? It all seemed so self-serving and commercial. Since my main mission has been reaching children with art, putting my name out there as an artist who sought money for her work seemed so...Greedy? Arrogant? And then, would I have to grovel to the gallery owners? Try to get them to "like me" or "like my work, please?" Would I have to change my work to please demands? Worry about percentages of who got what? And a big question: Would it all take away the JOY of slapping paint on a canvas that I'd worked so hard to reclaim after closing down my commissioned portrait artist shop and turning my back on my easel years ago?
Puzzle Piece #1: I found, online and on youtube, an artist who gave her work away to her community. I was smitten! She got a grant to do it on a large scale, and just did it. The people attending her unconventional outdoor exhibit got to take home original photographs of their community, even if they couldn't afford outrageous prices of "fine art". For over twenty years, I'd been dealing with children whose parents couldn't afford fine art prices. But doesn't EVERYONE deserve to have original art in their homes? Why should it be that only the wealthy get to have real art?
I would love to give away my paintings. How would I do it? No idea.
Puzzle Piece #2: In the meantime, my husband & I began to attend the wonderful little church in a nearby town where his friend was pastoring, after I went on a mission trip to Honduras with them. The pastor is a missionary who’s been around the world, and had come back to pastor the church a few years ago. He has wanted the church to reach out to the little financially-depressed town where there are hurting people who need hope. He would speak of it in the pulpit on Sunday mornings, and I would feel God tapping me on the shoulder, as if to say, “Uh huh. You hear him, don’t you?” I would respond with, “Are you kidding, Lord? I’m already working in my classroom as a mission field for you in my own town. And I don’t even know anything about this little town?”
Time passed, and I kept painting.
Puzzle Piece #3: In October of 2010, I painted a picture of Christ. This was unusual for me, since it’s difficult to really know what he looked like. But there it was, a picture of Him looking upon a believer. Between December and March, I hit a dry spell in my painting, and chalked it up to being busy with Life. When I thought about painting, I only played a bit on canvas. Was I blocked? I don’t normally have artist blocks, since I teach students how to overcome them… so, what was this?
Puzzle Piece #4: March 2011 a couple of my friends went to Cuba on a mission trip. (Two of my beloved companions on the Honduras trip) Upon their return, they gave a report on the trip one Sunday night, telling how God had provided supplies for their makeshift medical clinic, since one is an eye doctor and the other, a nurse. Afterward, I felt compelled to tell one of them about my convictions of outreach to the community whenever the pastor mentioned it, asking her for prayer, since she’s a powerful prayer warrior herself. While driving home from that Sunday night of sharing, I was given clear instructions: God told me that I was to go to that little nearby town where I didn’t know anyone but a few church members and set up a table this coming summer to give away small pieces of art that would point people to Him.
HUH?
What was that, Lord? Yes, I know you even gave me visuals of where I was supposed to set up, but you’re kidding, right? You want me to do WHAT?
I jokingly told Him this had to be wrong. :-) This was just my imagination. Of course, later on, I went to Wal-Mart and purchased small wood plaques to paint on, just in case!
April 2011 - I ended up painting another rendition of Christ the Saturday before Easter 2011. Hmmmm…
I got busy with school and it all got pushed to the back burner.
Puzzle Piece #5: Sunday, May 1, 2011. The church pastor had been working to inspire in the membership a need for prayer as a foundation, so when my husband offered to do a six-week study on prayer, he was pleased. My husband opened the study by showing the powerful video of Jim Cymbala speaking about prayer and afterwards, after a responsive altar call, we were all praising God and discussing what God was going to do through the church for that little town.
That’s when the pastor said it. “For one thing, this summer, we’re going to go to a needy section of town, set up a grill, and just give away hamburgers and hot dogs to folks.”
I was stunned. There was my answer. The puzzle pieces all fell into place.
After I picked up my chin from the floor, I falteringly said, “Um, I have to tell you something.” I told him and my husband about everything: the artist giving work away, and about my instructions driving home one Sunday night, and how I wasn’t even supposed to sign the work, but let God be the focus in it all. The pastor broke into a gentle grin and said, “Amen.”
My friend, the eye doctor/prayer warrior was informed that I’d found my answer and I recounted everything to her as we laughed, cried, and rejoiced about God’s ways being more powerful than we could ever imagine.
Many of you already know that home turf can be more difficult to minister to than abroad. The first set up is in early June. Please pray for me & the others who’ll be going out.
I’ll keep you posted.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Hello Again

2011-04-07T11:54:00.004-04:00

Isn't the passage of time .... um....tricky? swift?
One day, you wake up, and the First of 2011 has turned into Spring of 2011.
I haven't finished my New Years' Resolutions/Goals/Focus Word of the Year, yet.

Life Stuff has TRULY overwhelmed me this year,
but then, Life Stuff is always present for everyone!

I know you go through the same things:
1. job stress, (dealing with an incompetent person for 7 weeks. Will I/my husband have a job next year?)
2. family events, (birthdays, the 10th anniversary of our wedding proposal was special)
3. art-making decisions, (I'm blocked & busy. Now what?!)
4. illness, (Multiple migraines in one week = not good. See number one above)
5. friendship issues, (two ladies cancelled lunch dates in one week. Oh well)
6. pet health, (my four-footed son is slowly dying of a bad heart. But not today)
7. a mysterious spot on the just-washed new shirt (yet another paint shirt, if I get unblocked enough to use it)
8. home improvements (6 months to finish a bathroom? My sweet mother-in-law was patient with our daily shower visits. Now we find out we need $2500 worth of new pipes installed below ground)
9. car repairs, (two body shop visits for $1300+ in three weeks. You don't wanna know)
and last, but never least,
10.Duty to Fellow Man
while
11. Saving the Planet that Fellow Man Lives Upon.

But I'd really like to take off my Super-Hero cape for a bit
and just
talk to you.
Have some tea...coffee...ice-water...
Pop some popcorn or grab a cookie. From the store-bought container. Ahem.

The sun is shining, my favorite Cardinal family is flying around the backyard, my cat is home from the vet and walking around, at least ONE room in my house is clean, and this school teacher is on Spring Break until the 11th of April.

After a prayer of gratitude to the First Creator & His Son
for never leaving my side these past few months,
I need to clean my palette and put this Life Stuff on a cathartic canvas.
Grab that bag of cookies on your way to my studio, will you?
I have an extra canvas waiting just for you.
We'll fill them up with lots of
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Journal Pages

2010-12-12T20:16:00.004-05:00

I'm finishing the school semester, five days and counting! The bathroom remodel is almost finished, if I can just get the contractors back here for final details...like a mirror above the sink...! :-)
Lately, I've been working on creating journal entries for the "Journey of Journals Swap" at Coach Creative Space There are seven participants in a circuit who create spreads in each others' journals, and it's so exciting to think of your book coming home with all that creative lusciousness in it after traveling to places like England and South Africa. I can hardly wait to see my journal again.
Today, I was checking out Milliande's wonderful journaling videos and decided to play with mixed media just for myself. I love her experimental approach to art, and can always use a stress-free undertaking these days!

Hope your December holds lots of
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Celebrating Two Years!

2010-11-28T17:51:00.010-05:00

Happy Blogging, Everyone!
I'm celebrating two years of blogging by sharing some ATC love from ShopGirl at Back of the Moon!
Thank You, Mary...I love the necklace and lavender sachet. The two ATCs are beautiful additions to my collection. I apologize for taking so long to post them. You have a generous, beautiful heart.

Hope everyone in the U.S. had a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday.
News n pics on the remodeling coming soon...Yikes!
Thanks to all my readers for your two years of support.
Love & Laughter,
Dj

Thank You

2010-11-12T03:51:00.008-05:00

Dear Readers,
I've been MIADTL.
Missing in Action Due to Life.
Work, Home, Season, and BrainStuff have been all piling up,
and I'm beneath the pile ~
There's light coming in from up there somewhere, though, and I'M DIGGING OUT!
All you prayer warriors out there, add me to your list.

If you don't see a recent post here, you can usually find me at Coach Creative Space.
It's a Ning group that's caring and supportive, and I was a member there a couple of years before I started my blog. There's usually a swap of some kind going on there, as well as a lot of positive comments on artwork.

Although I've been MIADTL, I have been painting. See recent work below.
Thanks for reading and commenting.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Update Coming Soon, Friends!

2010-10-27T20:18:00.003-04:00

Hello All ~
I've not forgotten you. Just been on the hamster wheel of life! > pant, pant <
Long weekend coming up due to election day; will tell all & post pics after I sleep for twenty-four hours straight...Please pray for strength, decision-making, and being in His Will at all times. Nothing earth-shattering, just normal Life-stuff.
Thanks, Dear Ones, for checking on me!
You're all amazing in my book!
Love & Laughter,
DJ
See You Soon !

September Transitions

2010-09-25T08:55:00.011-04:00

We humans usually have some qualms about Change.
Knowing and Familiarity lull us into a state of Comfort.
Routine. Security. Control.

Conversely,
The Unknown is met with Trepidation.
Heightened senses. Alertness. Physical readiness for flight or fight.

Yes, you know all this. So, what?

Wellllllllllll,
my kitchen and bathroom are being gutted.
One right after the other.
Nothing makes my heart tremble like the prospect of someone altering my nest.
(Is that a woman thing?......an artist thing?....)

To say I'm stressed is an understatement.
People with crowbars and saws have entered my haven.
They mean well, but that's beside the point.

Yes, those are bare floor joists with ground beneath them.
Apparently, the people with crowbars didn't bring their own 2x4s to block the entrance, so they used my broom and shovel. Does little for my confidence, ya know?

Yes, I'm getting new stuff. (whee)
But will everything work? Visible and invisible?
Will dry be dry and will wet be wet when it's supposed to be?
Will electrical stay electrical and will nailed stay nailed?
Will something be covered up?
Will all my aesthetic decisions work together?
Stay tuned...
and say it will be alright...
right?
Excuse me while I drive to my mother-in-law's to take a shower. Ahem.

On another note,
Please allow me to ask for your knowledge.
Talk to me about your favorite countertop material!
Do you like corian, granite, or something else?
Any stains? Chipping? Joint seals not working?
Lemme know...
Before MY joint seals stop working. :-)

Love & Laughter,
DJ

Yoohoo...Anybody There....?

2010-08-28T15:40:00.005-04:00

Hi, dear readers. (If there are any left...)
Guess what I've been doing?
Oh, you're so intelligent; I like that quality in my friends. You guessed it:
School's back in session.
This old art teacher has been given new life: a brand spanking new school building.
Bright. Shiny. Complete with all the bells & whistles. Technology up to our earlobes, too.
I've been unpacking books and paper and reproductions and paint and brushes and yarn and easels and scissors and crayons and pens and still life objects and clay and glazes and more...
My back was really affected by all the lifting during the unpacking, to the point where I woke one morning and couldn't stand up straight. Fortunately, I have one of the best chiropractors on the east coast. After a few appointments, I've returned to my normal activities.
I've also been working late to prepare visuals for classes and meet all the deadlines.
Stop yawning; I'm not to the boring part, yet...Meetings.
Meetings, meetings. And more meetings.
There are new procedures for everything, since we're in a totally new environment. The administrators must gather teachers to explain procedures for lunch, hall passes, morning duty, and contacting the administrators if you have any questions about these procedures.
Then, there's training on all the new technology. My desk is not a desk; it's a cockpit. I feel like a rock star wearing the new microphone system. Funny how those tech trainers think you already know how to transfer your computer image to the 76" flatscreen LCD television. They skipped that chapter in my classroom management course back in the Dark Ages.
Of course, everyone wants a tour of the new facilities. Some of those everyones are community or state v.i.p.s who must be entertained or handshook to some degree.
One night, I arrived home early. It was about five-thirty pm, but I just crawled into the bed, and slept until eleven-thirty that night. Tired? Maybe.

So I just needed to tell someone that's why I haven't been blogsurfing in a while.

Students? Oh, yes. I've made time for them, also. Not sure yet what they're thinking about the new digs, but they keep coming to my room to talk about their latest problem and share artwork produced over the summer.
Thank goodness some things never change.
And after all, the things that stay the same are the ones that are most important.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

You Know and I Know You Know

2010-08-04T22:52:00.012-04:00

Yellow! It just had to be yellow, didn't it?
I had a red series going, and should have done two more red canvases.
Nooooo. I began painting with yellow.
And now, the camera won't pick up the warm "golden" yellow for a photo; it shows it as a bright lemon yellow. Yes, I'm painting in layers and glazes and mixing it all up. It's what I do.
Please tell me how to fix this. I know you know. You're smart, experienced, and you photograph your paintings all the time; I know because I drool over your paintings constantly when I visit your blog. And none of them look like the neon yellow in my golden yellow paintings. Lighting? Camera? Settings?
Go ahead; dish! Spill it. Whisper it in my ear...

2010 Yellow Series 1 Planet Flyers by DJ oil on 20x16" canvas

2010 Yellow Series 2 Pansy 2 by DJ oil on 20x16" canvas

2010 Yellow Series 3 Couple in Shelter by DJ oil on 16x20" canvas

How's your studio time going? Tell me about it. I wanna hear. Really. Please.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Bedtime Story

2010-07-29T15:19:00.011-04:00

Sometimes a woman just needs to talk...so I'm going to do some uninteresting gabbing and aimless semi-polite venting, and you can go to sleep peacefully while reading this. Just don't fall out of your chair and injure yourself. :-)
I've tried to keep this blog about art, but you know what? The best art is about life.
Life feeds our art, does it not? And I experience such joy when I'm experimenting with colors, textures, and forms. Then, I experience joy when I'm with family & friends & gardening, too. So, in my little mind, it all plays together. Some of you do this with your blogs, as well. I can count on you guys to comment on my blog more than other types of blogging folk.
And if you commented on my last post of paintings, I just replied to you in the comments there. I'm the crazy type who loves to comment several times on someone else's blog to have conversations with them, so feel free to talk to me.
Also, life sometimes interrupts art-making. I wish it didn't, but it has been doing that a lot to me lately: home repairs, health issues, work responsibilities.
I passionately love art and all of its processes. But I have another love in my life: PEOPLE.
There are artists who can blog by simply posting a painting and a price. Can't do it. That would make me totally insane.
I need to connect with people. I want to talk with people about art, making art, looking at art, and also, their lives. Or it's just not fun. I wanna know what an artist did before they went to the studio at ten a.m. I wanna know what they were thinking before they painted that still life. I wanna know what color they're going to paint their studio walls. Because I just painted mine a pale yellow, and I need motivation from you guys to do the white trim work later, when life stops interrupting.

Also, I've noticed that some people look down on bloggers who relate personal events, such as what their cat did that morning, or pics of their grandchildren. Some have deemed themselves the Blog Police and call such blogs "cat blogs" or other condescending nomers. Pshaw~ My furry art director is sitting on my computer table, purring for scratches right now; if I dis him, he's likely to get his feelings hurt. Honey, have you ever had a 15 lb. tabby pout and give you the cold shoulder?
NOT a pretty sight, lemme tell ya...
And woe to anyone who puts down a new grandmother's love for her second-generation offspring! You might as well cut off your nose to spite your face, or she'll do it for you...
As long as I'm holding who's pictured below, do you really think I care what you call my blog?

So, yes, I'm a proud "cat-blog" blogger!

(Did you see the dimple in that chin????)
And big brother gets equal blog time...

Twenty months ago...

Yes, they're two boys less than two years apart. And yes, my car knows the way to their house by itself. And yes, they can have anything they want. And yes, I have a million photos I'm restraining myself from showing you, so feel fortunate. And yes, I want to see your grands' photos, too.

You'll also notice I have a gazillion blogs featured on my blogroll. (Please see above where it states that I love PEOPLE.) Some bloggers feel it unnecessary to have too many blogs on their blogroll; they have four, maybe five. That's fine; call me an equal-opportunity featurer. :-) I like craftspeople, watercolorists, environmental land artists, cartoonists, illustrators, oil painters, art-journalers, mixed media people, photographers, textile artists, sculptors, stampers, and have you noticed? = Some folks over there on the right sidebar don't even make art! I just like what their blogs have to say. And I'm looking for more all the time...there are interesting blogs listed that have very few commenters...please pick a couple over there and check them out; they're quite lovely.
Tell them Grandmama DJ sent you...with lots of Love and Laughter, of course.

One Canvas, Three Paintings

2010-07-19T20:33:00.005-04:00

2010 City Inferno by DJ oil on 16x20 canvas

2010 Fleeing Fire by DJ oil on 16x20 canvas

2010 Red Haired Lurking Temptress by DJ oil on 20x16 canvas
The City Inferno was my third Red Canvas painting. I was trying to resolve my application of paint instead of simply drawing into a background color, which was becoming a worrisome habit. So, I used my fingers to smush paint around to obliterate the drawing and attempt a less-than-literal effect.
After posting it, I tried again. In the second painting, I was again, drawing instead of painting with the blue-clouded woman in Fleeing Fire. It may have been a step backwards; but it didn't worry me too much.
There's always turpentine and more paint.
In the third attempt, I abandoned the blue and painted over the canvas with red to begin again. I finger-painted yellow waves across the horizontal canvas and looked...I scratched through to the blue below in shadow valued lines and kept looking. Water? Mountains?
Ahhh...there you are...I turned the canvas vertically and carefully added her features.
Another Lurking Temptress...lurking there beneath the paint...
At the posting of this succession, I have already altered her further, but due to lack of camera batteries, won't share at this time. (So professional, DJ! Bleh~)
Suffice it to say that her features are now even more hidden than the photo here, making her reason for lurking even more mysterious.
Is she hiding in fear as a victim?
Is she lying in wait for her next victim?
I'll let the viewer supply the storyline...feel free to comment with ideas...
If I decide to paint over her, I'll keep it to myself. I'm sure you're tired of seeing this canvas, so I'll move on. There are three paintings past her in the Series now, and I may have a seventh Red Canvas painting lurking in me...
But Dear Reader, I'd rather you not lurk...please leave a comment...
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Summer Heat: The Red Canvas Series

2010-07-09T13:24:00.011-04:00

"Explosive Sunset" oil on canvas by DJ

"Sci-Fi Battle" oil on canvas by DJ

"Fiery Female" oil on canvas by DJ

"Fleeing Fire" oil on canvas by DJ

"Red Dustbowl" oil on canvas by DJ

"Twin Forest Fire" oil on canvas by DJ

These are in the order of creation. Please click to enlarge images and let me know what you think.
What do I think? I think the summer heat's getting to me...
Love & Laugthter,
DJ
ps~ Six of my older lovelies are in a local art display. My recent work doesn't have frames, yet, so they'll have to wait. But still, I'm pleased.

The Mecca of Becca

2010-06-23T16:51:00.009-04:00

"Waters Majesty" by DJ oil & cold wax on cradled wood panels

"Earth Moss" by DJ oil & cold wax on cradled wood panels
Please click on images for details ~

"Crystal Links" by DJ oil & cold wax on cradled masonite

The weekend of June 18th thru the 20th, I attended an Oil & Cold Wax Workshop with Rebecca Crowell at the West Main Artist's Co-Op in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
What a fantastic experience it was for all involved.
Rebecca is a kind, gracious person who freely shares her techniques with her students. For three days, twelve artists of various backgrounds worked through layers and mixed colors and texturized panels.
Some participants shared previous artworks at lunch together and we exchanged tips in the studio as we worked on our panels to achieve the results we desired. We were all given the same information and watched the same demonstrations by Rebecca, yet each of us created unique artwork that reflects our personalities and styles.

Rebecca has a Ning Group for Cold Wax Painters to discuss experiments and possiblities. She also has a website where you can purchase her beautiful abstracts.

If you ever have the chance to participate in one of her workshops, please do so. You won't regret it. Although I may regret Rebecca seeing the title to this post! :-)
(Rebecca, you know I love you! I just couldn't resist...Thank you for everything. )

Love & Laughter,
DJ

"Winter's Coming" by DJ oil & cold wax on cradled wood panels

Your Mortarboard

2010-06-13T08:09:00.006-04:00

It's that time of year.
Mortarboards and gowns are donned by excited youth in school auditoriums or in the heat of football stadiums. As you know, a mortarboard is the "cap" in the cap & gown of graduation regalia.
Zorana posted about her son's graduation and, upon seeing the awesome photo of the grads, I was inspired to write you all.
I know that perhaps you, and your families everywhere, are celebrating your babies and nieces and grandsons who have worked for years in high school and college to "survive the hassle for the tassel" and attain the privilege of a diploma.
Congratulations!!!
As a high school educator, I had the privilege of assisting my students in securing those tassels to their mortarboards and holding their hands as they wept at thoughts of leaving the familiar for the unknown before walking those halls that final time before commencement. I thought of those that had college scholarships and would go on to wear another gown four years later.

But, I also know many kids who, for whatever reason, will not wear a mortarboard and gown...ever.

So, in that light, may I ask something of you?
If you are a parent of a graduate,
PLEASE be sure that you celebrate YOUR achievement of
raising your child in a manner that inspired this achievement.
I've been teaching for 25 long years, so I'm very serious about this:
PARENTS ARE THE DIFFERENCE.
It's what you MODEL for that child: reading, discipline, health, work ethic, goal-setting...
All of that determines the choices that child makes: To pass a test, to do homework, to achieve goals for themselves, to climb to the next rung of the ladder, to have fun and finish work at the same time.
Maybe grandparents did this. Maybe an influential aunt or uncle. Maybe a sibling.

So.
After the family has gone. After the graduate has left for the beach...
Reward yourself.
You did it!
If only in secret, take a moment, DO SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR YOU, and reflect upon what it took to get him/her there.
Know that you have my gratitude for all you did. Congratulations from a partner.

Then, go inspire a young parent to do the same.
Good parents hold our future in their hands.

May they do it all with
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Oily Fingers = Happy Artist

2010-06-10T11:57:00.009-04:00

One of my beautiful Canadian artist-blogger-friends,Shayla, asked her readers. "What is the strangest thing in your studio?"
I commented: "A CLEAN palette!!!!"

I was in the studio this morning and was puttering.
I had a clean palette.
I had a clean canvas.
Clean hands. Clean clothes.
I was puttering, alright. And nothing else. Blehhhhh....
So, I broke loose and started slapping some paint around in my frustration.
I'm no longer puttering.
Whee.

YES, they're just WIPs that need developing. A LOT of developing. lol~
YES, it will take me DAYS to get this oil paint stain off my hands and nails.
YES, I'm happy.
I did more imperfect paintings to show later, too...

AND, I have more Lurking Temptresses...or should I say more Temptresses Lurking?... in my studio?
Love & Laughter, (& paint-stained hands)
DJ

Rainy Monday in Studio

2010-05-31T16:05:00.006-04:00

Lurking Temptress Oil on 20x16 Canvas by DJ

Detail of Lurking Temptress Oil on 20x16 Canvas by DJ

Detail of Lurking Temptress Oil on 20x16 Canvas by DJ
Nothing like a rainy afternoon off from work to send me into the studio.
I began re-working a bad painting and the possiblity of adding a partial portrait came to mind. Since she's supposed to be hiding-in-wait, I wanted to have the face emerging from the brown, so I'm not real happy with the almost white appearance in the photo, but it will be a WIP for now. And that glare on the right is making me absolutely nuts, even after I tried every camera angle to get rid of it.
Over twenty-five years ago, a former art professor mentioned in a critique that my work has a "sophomoric" quality to it. Unfortunately, I listened!
I'd love to shake off that curse this summer and develop a more sophisticated appearance. Any feedback is welcome. I'm thinking I need to paint more consistently and develop my color schemes to see real growth. This will happen after I retire; for now, I'll get in the studio when possible.
This Monday is a holiday in several countries, so I hope your day off is all you need it to be.
And may Peace prevail where you are...
Love & Laughter,
DJ

My IC is Trembling with Fright

2010-05-29T14:29:00.009-04:00

It's been so long since I posted any new artwork that I was wondering if I should change the name of my blog from "Studio" to "Garden".
But, I guess I won't since I just threw some paint around on some cardstock to make some sunny sunflowers this afternoon. :-)
Since I'm progressively stuck when it comes to my oils on canvas, I've been creating ATCs for swaps and making smaller "playthings" I enjoy. I started the backgrounds pictured here with some cheap craft acrylic paint and no plans. When the dreaded Inner Critic shows up to block your artwork, there's nothing like playing to foil his efforts.

These will be used as either backgrounds for journal pages, or small works to inspire larger canvas pieces. The first one began with a brush, which I quickly abandoned for my fingers, combined with some stamps and collage.

Chosen tools for pics two & three are fingers and an alphabet stamp. Backgrounds are actually white, not blue. Click on images for details.

So, if your IC tries to tell you things like, "You know your work isn't up to par." or "You're not really going to SHOW that to anyone, are you?" then do whatever it takes to regroup and keep creating:

~Play with paint or paper or cloth.

~Get your hands dirty and finger paint.

~Mix that media.

~Make a few ATCs and mail 'em to someone.

~Scribble and color a journal page for your photos.

~Become that seven-year-old who needs to play with play-dough or glue or crayons.

Your Inner Critic will tremble with every stroke.

Pretty soon, your Creative Confidence will soar with the eagles.

Post the results to share with us. I can't wait to see what you're up to...

Oh, yes!: Before you run off to play, please comment & tell me which sunflower pic you like best.

Thanks for commenting~

Love & Laughter, (& lots of play)
DJ

Well, I Wanted Color

2010-05-10T20:23:00.008-04:00

And I got it...
No, these are not from seeds. Those little green sprouts did not spring from my soil.
Yes, I confess: This is a shameless "purchase n plug" act, but I got color!

A new bed dug and planted in one afternoon...Petunias to greet me as I arrive home from work.
Remember this close up of my rose from the last post?
It's doing rather well. Unfortunately, I don't know the name. Bummer.

This plot desperately needs mulch, but the rose will bloom well with all the buds present now.

I'd love advice on pruning, mulching, etc. for roses.Talk to me. K?
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Blood & Sweat But No Tears

2010-05-02T12:39:00.015-04:00

The old phrase says "Blood, Sweat, and Tears" but I'm smiling!
My backyard has presented many challenges over the years. Three extremely invasive plants had taken over a lot of my yard when I puchased the property about twelve years ago: Bamboo, Ivy, and Wisteria.
A Bamboo forest that spanned about thirty feet in length by ten feet deep was a kind of towering border on the right. Ivy claimed the left edge of the yard as a border gone wild. And the Wisteria...well, if you know Wisteria, it grew wherever it wanted. Since the previous owners had rented the property, no one bothered to tame these beasts, other than cutting the areas of grass that were trying to hold their ground.
Over the years, much blood, sweat, and tears have been shed in my attempts at taming my backyard. So, you see, when I post pictures of flowers, it's not just a nice picture; it's a Triumph of Spirit!
This Spring is finding me in my backyard once again...
A Wisteria vine was growing up through a Camellia shrub into my large Magnolia tree. My Magnolia tree was in danger, so on April 27th, I decided to do something about it.
(Click on images to enlarge.)
BEFORE:

AFTER:

DETAIL:

The Camellia's hemlines were raised, so I could get to the Wisteria's mother vines to cut off the supply to the vines in my Magnolia. There were briars and other sprouting unlovables that were making the Camellia their support system also. It took a bow saw, a pair of loppers, and a pair of hand-snips to cut through everything there. That long vine in the front is just one of the Wisteria vines that I disconnected, but can't remove without damaging my Magnolia tree.
But, I'm a patient person.

Friends, you know you're "in the zone" when you bleed from a cut on your finger, but the sweat washes it from your hands before you finish working and call it a night.
Opening up the bottom of the Camellia has opened up my backyard space, and inspired me to do more landscaping this Spring. I also love the sculptural look of the exposed branches.
I'll try to post a pic of the cleaned-up version when I clear out more around the shrub.
Right now, I'm too busy tending my wounds and smiling.
Hope you're getting to spend some time just smelling the roses.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Spring is Springing Right Along

2010-04-18T20:46:00.007-04:00

Some shots of my backyard.

The dogwood at my back door released its petals top form a carpet of white. In the fall, I get to walk on a red carpet for several days. God has ways of making us feel special. We just need to pay attention to His gifts all around us.

Random Act of Photos

2010-04-06T15:10:00.003-04:00

I've been sick for two weeks, so I'm trying to get up enough motivation to get back into the studio. Apparently, my painting moxie has been as weakened as my immune system, so it's a struggle to decide what I want to paint. I've been re-reading one of my fave handbooks, "Art & Fear", so I will be getting back to that easel soon. If only to mush paint around as before. While I'm recuperating, here are a couple of photos to keep us company.

This little one is ready for some sunny weather.

My art director says "Get back to work, Mom!"

Pick & Click!

2010-03-06T21:51:00.005-05:00

Time to share some linky love with my awesome blogging buddies.
There is a beautiful, professional sculptress who has been commenting on/supporting my blog since its inception, and whom I've loved since meeting her at the Coach Creative Space Ning community. Unlike me, she doesn't talk about herself on her blog, but she generously spotlights other artists' work. If you want a different kind of eye-candy, you have to have Robyn in your Blog Roll. She has an ace eye for sculpture and 3-D art that will leave you drooling. I love you, Robyn! Thank you, Darling!
Please go here to see the most realistic eyes I've ever seen painted. Click on the lower detail pic in her post and check out those eyes. I just can't wrap my mind around the fact that those babies are paint and not the real thing.
There are more blogs that I love featuring artists with heart that I can believe in; you can find them on my Blog Roll to the right. Just pick & click!
Hint: If you're reading this, then you're one of them!
Wishing you Love & Laughter,
DJ

Saturday Complete

2010-02-27T21:15:00.009-05:00

I returned home last Sunday to a tumultuous work-week, and I'm so glad it's done and the weekend is here. I wasn't sure if I would have any energy this weekend or not to get anything accomplished creatively, so I didn't plan on a lot of activity.
But yesterday was deemed lovely for several reasons, not the least of which was the opportunity to return to bed for extra sleep.
Around mid-day, my husband & I traveled to see our grandson and check on his little-brother-to-be. It was a cool, sunny day, and Granddaddy had a new camera to try out. The perfect recipe for walking outside and exploring the world.
After being assured that my expecting daughter-in-law and son were doing well, we took them out for steaks and enjoyed the entertainment of a 15-month-old who'd rather be exploring than sitting in a restaurant highchair. His antics included parroting mom's instructions, and testing every object put before him to see if it would bounce on the floor. (Because Daddy already taught me how to bounce a ball, and I don't know why other things don't bounce too...?)
After eating the most tender prime rib I've encountered in this life, I reluctantly kissed my family good-bye and noticed the full moon amongst tree branches near our parked cars.
We headed home to enjoy a quiet Saturday evening.
Once in the car, a student called me to excitedly share the news that he'd purchased some Copic Markers to start his collection of colors for the art he creates. I was honored that I merited such a call, and returned his excitement, making him promise to share his new color work with me as soon as possible.
Hubby and I stopped to pick up a few household supplies, then took the scenic route home, viewing the cloud-framed moon presiding over the night sky as Mona presides over the Louvre.
Riding home, I munched on a bar of chocolate purchased with the supplies, humming happily, as if I'd been given a million dollars.
Playing with my granchild, a good steak, chocolate, and a full moon.
We spoke of the day's events to remember them, and agreed that it had, indeed, been a good day. Even better, it had been a restorative day in which the stressors of the work week were pushed into the background.
Now, if I can whittle down my To-Do List, I can also carve out some time in the studio to paint.
Hoping you have time to pursue your creative interests
with Love & Laughter,
DJ

When you look up the word "sweet" in the dictionary, you'll see this pic beside it.

Out of Town & Thinking of You

2010-02-17T21:57:00.003-05:00

I'm going out of town due to school/art/business/work stuff, but will be missing you guys. I always look forward to reading your humor, passion, art experiences, inspiration, and life stories out there in cyberspace.
Will return on Sunday, so see you next week.
Don't get into any trouble without me! ~BIG GRIN~
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Beloved

2010-02-14T12:24:00.008-05:00

To my loving husband on Valentines Day 2-14-2010

Beloved

My Beloved was sent to me by Grace
after many years of loneliness
and questions and growing
my own life amongst the tears.
My Beloved gently mended a world-weary heart
and deepened its bond to the Holy One
thus creating a triangle of Love so strong
that nothing could interfere.
My Beloved quietly serves me
and allows me to serve him
praying together each morning for each other
so no harm can enter while we are apart.
My Beloved holds me in his arms
to warm me in a haven of security and peace
against a cold world of questions
and vicious uncertainty.
My Beloved vigilantly cares for me
in the days of work and striving
then gives me pleasant company
in moments of peace and joy.

"Beloved" mixed media painting on 20x16" canvas by DJ

For those of you who are alone on Valentine's Day, do not give up hope. There is One who loves you today, yesterday, and tomorrow.
For those of you who have that someone, there's a fave quote of mine:
"The grass is not greener on the other side of the fence; it's greener where you water it."

Love & Laughter,
DJ
"I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine, He who pastures his flock among the lilies."
Song of Solomon 6:3

His Timing is Perfect

2010-02-13T11:59:00.007-05:00

OK, who is tired of seeing everyone's photos of their snowscapes, resulting from yet another snowfall somewhere in the western hemisphere? Raise your hands. I thought so.
If you've been snowed in and are experiencing cabin fever, complete with bored children, muddy carpets and s'mores sickness, I applaud your strength to read this far into this post.
After I had to take down the snowfall widget on my blog due to a hijacking intrusion embedded within, God saw fit to replace it with a gift of over three inches of the real stuff on our state for the first time this winter.
Last night.
Friday night.
As in, there is no school to be OUT OF today.
HUH?
Then, what IS this?
It isn't a "Snow Day"...It's a weekend.
How do you celebrate that? Where is the JOY of knowing that you get to ditch school because buses can't handle back roads with black ice lurking around the shaded curves?
The alarm wasn't even set, for cryin' out loud. There was no rolling over and going back to sleep with a smirk on my face, even...
Dummy me was up taking pictures at 8 this morning, after being sleepless on the computer for three hours before that.
I wonder what my students are doing? Prolly sleeping, without the slightest hint of being impressed with God's beautiful handiwork outside.
I may have to take a nap myself.
Lord, could you do this again Sunday night? Wouldn't a long weekend be just THE best Valentines Day present?
Yes, I know it's the mild South and all that, and for us to get 2 good snows in one winter is like asking for ME to be 18 again, but...
Hey, Lord, wipe that smirk off your face...!

DJs Backyard :-)

Snowploughed the Hijacker

2010-02-09T18:40:00.002-05:00

Friends, I just have to give a shout-out to Wet Oil Paint for directing me to a Blogger Help Forum Discussion that mentioned the snowfall widget as a possible hijacking vehicle.
My computer technician asked earlier about the snowfall effect on my blog, but I didn't suspect the widget, since it had been in place for at least a month or so before the problems began.
Since I deleted the snowfall widget, no problems with redirecting to obnoxious ad pages. Whew~
The snow was beautiful, but communicating with you is more beautiful.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Technical Difficulties Still

2010-02-07T10:59:00.007-05:00

Watercolor Journal Spread by DJ

"Death Leaves Way Too Much Negative Space" oil on 20x16 canvas by DJ

The watercolor spread is in a journal that I'm hoping to fill with ideas.
The oil painting is a reaction to suddenly learning of the November death of Jeanne Claude, Christo' wife. I admire Christo and Jeanne Claude's involved, time-consuming, monumental works, and can't imagine losing a creative partner and beloved spouse.

Yes, I'm still frustrated with probs on my blog.
Hope my sweet blogging friends can get through to read and comment.
I'm working on it, which should give anyone a laugh...LOL!
Sorry about any inconveniences to you, my friends.
DJ

Printing and Painting Combination

2010-02-06T22:05:00.007-05:00

Remember from a previous post, I mentioned that I couldn't get a good photo of the styrofoam printmaking demo painting? Well, this may be as good as it gets with my present camera in winter light.
After printing with the styrofoam blocks in white and purple on a yellow background, I noticed my cat was modeling, so I painted him in purple. My camera picked up the glare in the upper right and after "enhancing" in editing, the entire painting lost its subtle qualities.
A good excuse to purchase a new camera and proper studio lighting, though!
Whee.

"Sleeping Cat" oil on 16x20" canvas by DJ

Detail of "Sleeping Cat" oil on 16x20" canvas by DJ

Mark Me Tardy, Not Absent

2010-02-03T20:49:00.003-05:00

Sorry, friends!
My web browser was hijacked, and I couldn't get to my blog.
Or my blogroll!
Ever happened to you? Not fun!
Every time I punched into my addy, it redirected to an obnoxious advertisement playing multiple soundtracks simultaneously.
Thankfully, my darling husband has an ace computer technician/programmer who works for DH's agency and he cleared my browser via remote Wednesday night.
So, I have to catch up with your wonderfully creative posts over the next couple of days.
Love & Laughter
from a relieved DJ who is so glad to be here again!

Define it. Defeat it.

2010-01-30T21:50:00.011-05:00

After struggling with "selfish artist guilt" for many years, I wanted to balance my "day job" responsibilities and give in to my desire to paint again. I had been trying to connect with artists by getting involved in an Artist's Way group about 45 minutes from my home.
One day, I had a day-job deadline, and an artists' group assignment deadline. After fulfilling other appointments, I had about three free hours in the afternoon. Usually, I would tell myself I didn't want to work at home, but if I didn't get my work done, I shouldn't be painting, either. Thus I would procrastinate miserably on both, and get nothing done.
But on that day in February 2009, I decided to do something effective. I divided the hours in half, working on the day-job stuff first, then painting for 1-1/2 hours. I knew if I worked on the painting first, I would never leave my studio. So, I set a timer and trudged through my paperwork.
And, yes, I was so happy when that timer went off. I wasn't through with my work, but I had begun, which was more accomplished than the alternative results.
Running with a guilt-free heart to my small studio space, I began a colorful painting that had been lurking in my head to fulfill the assignment. I completed it that afternoon and it's become one of my fave paintings. At the group that night, one member requested a print of the painting, since it seemed to illustrate her personal journey.
I refer to this as the Half & Half Technique. Yes, it's sad that some of us have to play tricks on ourselves to accomplish anything. But finding what works for you can be extremely rewarding when you have struggled for years with a mentality that holds you back.
If you're struggling with something, sit yourself down, and honestly figure out what it is that holds you back.
Then make a plan to defeat your foe.
Become a warrior for your inner artist, and fight for your studio time, unique voice, personal choice of media, risk-taking permission, or a license for imperfection. These are just some of the essentials we all need to protect while creating. What is holding you back?
Define it. Then, defeat it.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Oh...the painting?
It's the one entitled "Isaiah 40:31"
This reassuring verse states:
"But those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint."
Lemme tell ya, when life gets tough, it doesn't get any better than that.

"Isaiah 40:31" oil on canvas by DJ

Consider Humble Materials

2010-01-30T16:43:00.009-05:00

I was checking out Jo Horswill's always inspiring blog "My Story" and was reminded of the fact that ordinary household materials can bring beauty into being. I then visited Odd Chick's amazingly creative blog "Passions of an Odd Chick" and read about her desire to create her computer-patterned background by hand. The two seemed related in my simple mind, since I use styrofoam blocks for printmaking in my classroom. So I played with some styrofoam blocks and oil paint on this icy Saturday afternoon.
I'm not pleased enough with my photos of the painting to share it here, but, as my life goes, the blocks look better than my painting!

I don't know what I think of the painting, yet. It has an amateurish quality that I'm trying to leave behind. Unsuccessfully!
But, at least I got my hands messy, so it was not a wasted Saturday afternoon.
Thanks to Jo and OddChick for the inspiration. Hugs & Hairsmooches.
OK, people...Use what you have to create. Make yourself happy. Make stuff. Now.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Traveling in a Strange Land

2010-01-27T20:25:00.006-05:00

"Lady of the House" in oil on 20x16" canvas by DJ

Detail of "Lady of the House" in oil on 20x16" canvas by DJ

In my last post, I mentioned that it's been so long since my last real painting session that my studio felt "foreign." That led to my comment that it's a good thing I don't mind traveling in a strange land.
When I had a few hours this past weekend, I reacquainted myself with my easel, and this lady's face appeared. I began with a palette knife background, then surprised myself by painting her into the plane with a brush...of course, I was so pleased to see her, I got stuck and didn't go any further. I usually err on the side of simplicity, much to the experts' chagrin. But since "simplicity" is my word for 2010, I'm not bothered.
Don't you be bothered by silly critics, either, my friend. Get into that workspace and create!
Tell those voices in your head to SHUT UP! And then, go, do what your heart desires!
I'll be here to cheer you on...
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Cozy Winter Nap, Anyone?

2010-01-24T12:51:00.005-05:00

The photo is of my cat curled up napping under the warmth of a lamp. Yes, this is what I WISH I was doing...
But life has other ideas, so I've been working, attending too many meetings, grading portfolios, getting report card grades into the school computer, visiting family & friends, and getting over a nasty sinus infection that decided to hang on long after its arrival during Christmas week.
And on top of everything else, my computer got an infection! What fun...

The other night, I walked into my studio and it felt like a foreign land. Yikes~
Good thing I like to travel to unusual places ~lol~
I better get in there and remember what it's like to apply paint to a surface...
Is it Spring yet?

Love & Laughter... to everyone in blogland
DJ

Three Little Words

2010-01-02T21:34:00.006-05:00

It is the beginning of January 2010...
The number sounds especially auspicious to me this year. Like we should be making plans for world peace efforts and calculating space travel activities or throwing an international parade or something.
A new year is like a fresh new canvas, several artist bloggers have remarked. Yes, and I wonder what will be painted upon mine?
Like you, there are so many things to do in so many arenas of my life.
My list is long, and my time runs out.
Prioritize?
I wish. Hmm…Let's see:
~Seeking God’s Will would be first, to ensure everything else is successful.
~People and art would be next.
~Animals would be in there somewhere.:-)
Gee, it sounds so simple when you put it like that!
Several blogger-friends have a word to focus upon for the new year instead of resolutions.
Perhaps my word could be SIMPLIFY.
The list above is simple and seemingly stress-free. And Honey, I desperately need stress-free.
I wonder if I can simplify my work at school to alleviate stress there..?
I’m working towards simplifying things at home already.
So, for you, I'll share my Christmas preparation/cleaning method in three words:

1) Throw out. (Yes, 2 words, but more aggressive than "toss" :-)
2) Purpose.
3) Place.

“Throw out” means giving it to our local thrift store for sales that benefit our local Hospice.
“Purpose” means making sure the remaining object has a purpose for taking up precious space in my life.
“Place” means finding a place that is convenient and unobtrusive.

OK, it probably lets out the plans for space travel and an international parade but...SIMPLIFY is my word. What's yours?

Love & Laughter, (and a stress-free 2010 to all my precious blogging friends)
DJ

Christmas Wishes

2009-12-25T18:30:00.007-05:00

It's Christmas night here...people around the world have enjoyed togetherness, presents, meals and I pray, lots of "love & laughter" over the past few hours. After the wrappings have been cleared a bit, and the leftovers dealt with, and friends have shared hugs, one settles down cozily to dream of the future year and its possibilities.
Looking forward, I have a second grandchild on the way in June, and a brand new building for our high school to move into, and lots of family & friends to keep track of...but my mind always returns to those who may not have...

On Christmas Eve, I slowly browsed amongst the hurried crowds who were driving too fast, scurrying to the stores and looking for that last item to complete their list. I noticed that some were standing in a checkout line of twenty people to get that important something. Others were having fender-benders and talking to police officers.
I kept thinking about my July trip to Honduras during all of this, and especially about those children we served at the orphanage. I wondered what was on their Christmas list? I thought about scenes from our travels, like the man moving a herd of cows across the road to feed, or the mother cooking corn on the roadside with a make-shift grill so she could make some money. I thought about the two little boys who were carrying the family's water supply to their humble dwelling. What would be on their Christmas list?
But on Christmas Eve, I walked out of a popular over-priced store that I once loved to window-shop in. I would usually look over ~and lust after~ the color and textures and richness and tell myself that someday I would be able to purchase those luxurious trinkets. But this year, I walked out after a few moments, my mind filled with those children's faces...

Yes, my perspective has certainly changed.
About consumerism.
About assigning value to what is around us.
About allowing someone in an advertisement to dictate what should be important to me.
Why should they be able to tell me what to wear?
What to drive?
What my home should look like?
What to need?
Just because they want my hard-earned money.
Who has the right to do that?
I detest the thought of a stranger telling me what to do, so I will not allow an ad agency to tell me what to wear, drive, live in, or anything else.
I will no longer play the game.

I decide what will be of value to me in this short life:
my relationships ...with the Holy Trinity, with people near & far, and as a far second, with this planet...

And what about objects? They serve one purpose or another. But I get to decide which purposes I value, too.
My money? I work hard to earn it. I will decide how to use it for good.
Because money & objects should serve me. Not the other way around. Ever.

You may remind me that I'm an artist, and I create objects all the time. True.
But if my house was on fire, I would not be running to save my paintings. You see, I don't worship art. I love it. It makes me extremely happy. But I don't worship it.
I would regret their loss, but I can always paint better paintings in the future.

Life is short, so I've learned to value the parts of life that can't be replaced. Like laughing with orphaned children who are communicating with me through art-making. Like the feel of my husband's hand holding mine. Like having my one-year-old grandson walk into my arms for the first time last week. Like reading the sweet comment of a blog-reader whom I've never met. Like so many people who have crossed my path and left a footprint on my heart. Because that's where the actual celebration of Christ's birth really takes place...the heart.

So my Christmas wish for you is that...
In 2010, may your heart be filled with
Love & Laughter,
DJ

BRB !

2009-12-15T22:10:00.006-05:00

I want to post my latest paintings. I really do.

In case you didn't know...I'm a public school teacher. And it's three days before Christmas Vacation...

(Yes, an art teacher. I have 150 clay ornaments glaze-firing in a school kiln as I type this.)

(Any Prayer Warriors out there wanna take a moment for me? ...Thank you...)
Christians have memorialized Good Friday before Easter Sunday; perhaps school teachers could celebrate the last day of school before Christmas as "Merciful Friday"...or "Blessed Friday"...because God carried us through until the end...

On Friday, December 18th at 3:40pm EST, if you hear screaming whoops of celebration coming from the east coast, that'll be me.

'nuff said.

Love & Laughter, (et tempus fugit)
DJ

Year One in Blogland

2009-11-28T09:01:00.005-05:00

"Paisley Heart" Acrylic on Wood by DJ 2007
This blog was begun one year ago on November 28, 2008. During this season of gratitude, I can say I'm sincerely thankful for your visits here. It has been an outlet to display my artwork and feel like someone sees me in the role of artist as well as teacher. Thank you for being so gracious in your comments on my paintings & drawing lessons. And even though anonymity is a requirement for me right now, I've connected with many lovely people out there who are supportive and so giving in their creativity. I've enjoyed sharing some of my art and getting to visit your blogs to take a peek into your lives and artwork these past twelve months.
Thank you for sharing your beauty.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Escape to a Fantasy Land of Imagination & Skill

2009-11-22T11:00:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday night, the 21st of November, I saw it! My husband & I went to see "Cirque du Soleil: Alegria"...
Wow...I had seen them only on television, but a live performance? Stunning.
The colorful stage was shaped and lit up like a fairyland, but as the show progressed, the high-tech changeability of the curved flooring to a totally different surface left you wondering, "How did they do that?"
The musicians introduced the show by wandering through the audience, playing instruments in costume before taking their places on stage, so they were a part of the show, not separately placed in an invisible pit somewhere.
The singers had beautiful etheral voices that took me away from everything earth-bound.
The performers were in colorful costumes that were inspired & imaginative artistry. The shapes and forms would leave any artist in the audience drooling to design something with such color and textures.
I gasped at the acrobatic acts, which were precise and varied, including fire-handlers and synchonized contortionists. The trapeze artists were amazingly strong and daring in their movements. The equipment handlers and the performers had worked together to ensure trust, so I could concentrate on the beauty of the movements, rather than worry about their safety.
And, of course, the clowns were engaging and when they pulled audience members onstage, it was hilariously entertaining. They chose simple positive themes that everyone could relate to and performed them with joy and precision.
The lighting was imaginative and the colorful pageantry was playful. The audience was taken to a faraway place in which I was seven years old again and exploring a new world of wonder & delight.
The audience responded with cheers and laughter, then ended the night with a long standing ovation of appreciation for all the hard work that went into such a dramatic show. The many performers returned to take several bows and responded to us as well with smiles and waves...
If you've not seen Cirque du Soleil, please make every effort to experience it. If you have seen a performance, please tell me about it below in comments; I'd love to hear about it!

Autumn in the Studio

2009-11-17T20:24:00.012-05:00

Thesis: I do NOT like Fall for several reasons, and this Fall season has been crazy-busy and nothing even close to resembling fun has occurred.
Except...
my studio life has been more active lately
and my prayer life has been kickin' some satanic rear-end, lemme tell ya...
and my son got to come home for a week after being on duty for seven months
and hearing from former students thanking me that they learned something in my classes when their college profs ask them to perform in an art class...
and talking to friends...and loving my husband...
and
(drum roll please)
having a restaurant that serves sushi open up in my little corner of the world! Woohoo! Yeah, baby.

OK,OK...I can't be negative, much to my chagrin.
I'm too blessed to be stressed
and too anointed to be disappointed!

Just One Example:
I was in my studio Saturday November 14, 2009. I was NOT in the zone for painting, but needed to mush some paint around to center myself and feel better about life. Note: Mushing paint does that for you, if you didn't know.
I pulled out a cheap canvas, secured it on my easel, and picked up a palette knife. I turned on the radio, and thought about a color selection for two seconds. Tube in hand, I squeezed out a bit o' color onto my palette knife and swiped the color across the canvas.
Simultaneously, it happened: There was a flash of awareness...
God had swiped his hand across the void in the beginning. He "told" me: "See how I felt when I first created the world? The joy you are feeling is just a tiny speck of what I felt. Think about it."
I was overwhelmed and closed my eyes to "see" what He was saying.
I fell to my knees and sat at the foot of my easel, palette knife and paint tube still in hand. I could see intense golden light and the green earth unfold...His joy was so immense and powerful, I could only take it in glimpses and moments...the trees, meadows, moutains...creatures of the land and air...the depths of the seas...the living bounty and life and golden light that sprang from His voice was too beautiful to view with a dry eye...
I praised Him with my tears, since I couldn't speak.
I always knew that God created the world. It's too organized and varied for anything else. But I had never thought about his JOY while creating!
If we puny human artists get a smile from making a silly little painting, then the First Creator was so powerfully joyful while creating a place for us, that an entire universe became a limitless display of variety and energy and life.
God was JOYFUL when He created, just like we are.
So, to remember that vision of joy, I continued that initial swipe that brought me to my knees and joyfully danced my way into a simple painting of God splitting the darkness with light. My palette knife strokes don't begin to capture the majesty, but my heart feels a small joy, maybe like on the First Day.
May He be glorified.

"Let There Be Light" oil on 16x20 canvas by DJ, hanging out with The Alpha & Omega

Latest Paintings

2009-11-04T22:36:00.004-05:00

"Shelter" Oil on 16x20" canvas by DJ

"Orange Shelter" Oil on 20x16" canvas by DJ

"Green Spirit" Oil on 20x16" canvas by DJ

Palette Knife Thread to the Rescue

2009-10-03T15:51:00.005-04:00

Vertical Violet Sky 14x11 Oil on canvas by DJ

Life happens, and when it does, I go through myriad moods in reaction to stress. I'm sure you all have your act together, and don't experience any life stressors. :-)
As you know so well, in an online group, we call a conversation a "thread". I feel I'm having psychological conversations with my paintings these days, so I'm tempted to call them "threads" in lieu of "series."
I have three painting "threads" that I'm working on right now. The palette knife landscape conversation gives me the most relief from stress, so I've posted the next one in that particular thread above.
No matter what life hands me, when I get back into the studio, my equlibrium returns and joy enters the heart. I remember why I was made, and that I should share that joy with my beloved students and the few blog readers I have, hold, & cherish.
Yes, that would be you, my friend.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Here's My Rainbow from Spacefem...

2009-09-16T21:46:00.003-04:00

Your rainbow is strongly shaded violet.

What is says about you: You are a creative person. You appreciate beauty and craftsmanship. You are patient and will keep trying to understand something until you've mastered it.

Find the colors of your rainbow at spacefem.com.

Spectator Paintings

2009-09-12T13:36:00.005-04:00

Tuesday 9-8-09 Spectator I
Wednesday 9-9-09 Spectator II
Palette knife wielded in a different direction, with muted colors. Thinking of a tennis match audience and the possible whimsy found there...

Spectator I Oil on 20x16" canvas by DJ

Spectator II Oil on 20x16" canvas by DJ

Last Week's Non-Serious Mushing

2009-09-07T17:23:00.016-04:00

I'm going back to an earlier developmental stage that I missed, and playing in paint. Just having fun mushing paint around, so I can get it out of my system.
The last week of August, I managed one small painting experiment on a night I was really out of the zone. Ever had one of those nights? :-)

Fir Trees in Mountains 8x10" Oil on canvas by DJ

Wednesday, September 2, 2009 was a night for mushing paint around. Don't worry; I'm just playing...

Purple Yellow 3-D 8x10" Oil on canvas by DJ

Mushing Green 1 8x10" Oil on canvas by DJ

Mush n Scratch 1 10x8" Oil on canvas by DJ

Backwards J Abstract 14x11" Oil on canvas by DJ

The last is a workover of the previously posted "Color Chart Shadows". I need to get some mushing out of my system, so I can progress to a place I'll enjoy.
I repeat: Don't worry; I'm just playing...
And having fun.
Please have fun at whatever you undertake. Life is short.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

A Quiet Friday Evening

2009-08-21T21:02:00.006-04:00

The first week of a new school year has just been completed, and after some adjustments in my attitude & approach, I experienced a productive Friday in my art classroom. Being a public school teacher has its victories and defeats; I survive to fight another day. Sorry, my warrior archetype surfaces to don her cape quite often these days...the battle against ignorance is ongoing, is it not?
Last week, I put a little concoction together when my husband had a business dinner obligation elsewhere. It involves Polska Kielbasa and an off-the-shelf Alfredo sauce. Add some green onions and bell pepper for color & crunch over angel hair pasta. It took minutes to brown the sausage and boil the pasta, then I poured the cheese over the pasta, and voila~
Just a little something to consider for a change of pace after a couple of hours in the studio or classroom. Enjoy.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Driven to Distraction or Abstraction?

2009-08-13T18:02:00.009-04:00

Bless the Rains in Africa 28x40 Oil on Canvas by DJ
Color Chart Shadows 14x11 Oil on Canvas by DJ

Green Lake Memories 14x11 Oil on Canvas by DJ

Limestone Mountains Two Panels of 11x14 Oil on Canvas by DJ

After having been out of the studio for several weeks due to the Honduras trip and the recovery afterwards, I jumped into some oils with both feet -um, hands - this past Saturday, August 8th.
(And yes, I'll post regarding the trip, as soon as I get some pics to accompany the stories. The experience was awesome, as you can imagine.)
Above are five paintings I threw onto canvas with palette knife, fingers, and a few brushes. The Limestone Mountains are actually two canvases that I stacked on the easel, and worked on simultaneously as one. They also work side by side.
Any of these may get worked over eventually...more gutting it out, as below.
Feedback, please. Negative & positive comments welcome.
Below.
Yeah. I'm talking to you. :-)
Love & Laughter,
DJ

I'm Gonna Need a Big Suitcase ~ Maybe Two...

2009-07-17T20:11:00.005-04:00

Well, dear readers, I'm off on another adventure. This time it's a mission trip to Honduras to minister to children and love them through the fun of making art. I'll be gone from Sat, July 18th until Mon, July 27th, and will update you when I return.
Please pray for me as I make some attempts to share His love and laughter with the children of Honduras...and pray that I don't bring a couple of those precious orphaned kids home with me in my suitcase...hmmm...not a bad idea...

It's Re-Post Day!

2009-07-16T15:23:00.005-04:00

Since it's a day for reposting an oldy-but-goody, I thought my first would do...it's from November 2008, when I started my blog.
Enjoy...

Perfection or Completeness...

Sometimes, in an artist's life, perfection rears its ugly head.
It appears to most of us at one time or another in our lives, and to an artist, it can be just as paralyzing. Some of us refer to it as the "P" word...It keeps us from accomplishing anything, before we even begin. The whispering spectre of our Inner Critic convinces us that if we aren't going to do things without blemish, then those endeavors are worthless: "Why try? What will others think? Someone will point out that mistake or omission, and what will you say? Stick to what you do well, so you won't look foolish..."The whispers continue endlessly, don't they?
Until you leave the easel, the studio, walk away from the worktable, the music, the sewing machine, put the pen down. Sometimes, you feel that's the only way to shut up the voices?
It isn't.
There are things you can do to quiet the doubts and fears, so you can find joy in creating. Try talking back. Tell your Inner Critic to check out your past successes. Tell your IC that you're going to just slop some paint around, or play imperfect music, or write some bad poems, just for the moment.
You're not going to show it to anyone, so that's not a problem. It's just for your pleasure, so it doesn't have to be scrutinized. Pick up that brush, pen, or needle and fool your IC into quieting down by not wanting perfection, but COMPLETENESS. You want to do one project to its completion. Period. It doesn't have to be Tchaikovsky or Renoir or Wang. You just want to finish it.
When you finish it, DON'T tweak it, don't make adjustments, quit FIDDLING with it!
Hang it on your wall.
Hang the sewn pocketbook. The essay. The score you composed. Frame it in a store-bought frame.
Quick! Do it now. On the wall it goes. Put your name on it.
You did it.
Now, how are you going to celebrate? Your favorite cuppa something? A nap to view your work as you doze off? A walk through a park with your head up and a smile on your face? Maybe some new supplies for your next imperfect project?
Now, you're complete.

Gutting It Out

2009-07-08T10:57:00.015-04:00

"Mountainside Storm" by DJ oil painting on mat board 24x16

Detail

Detail

Detail

Detail

There is a conclusion that all creatives need to reach at some point. Some of us get there slowly, feeling our way through the maze. Some of us know it intuitively, arriving faster, and getting on with it.
What conclusion?
The knowledge that, no matter how many books you read, no matter how many classes you take, no matter how much research you do, no matter how many motivators or creative coaches you listen to,
there comes a POINT when you have to DRAG YOUR SORRY CARCASS INTO THE STUDIO and
just GUT IT OUT.
You have to actually put the pen to paper. Turn on the music and take the dance step. Focus the camera and click. Or put paint on the palette and slap it onto the canvas.
You have to wrestle with your mistakes, face your truths, and scrape off the paint, paint over the lessons learned, and do it again.
>Warning: Severe weeping, wailing, and gnashing of teeth may occur during this process.<
You have to make crappy paintings and do some little nothing pieces, over and over and over....to get to the good stuff.
The stuff that you actually want to do. For yourself.
So, yeh, I'm struggling just to get into the studio for an hour. And, it shows.
But you know what? I'm still fighting. I'm gutting it out.
Last night, I wrote a brief artist statement for Summer 2009. Then I read an artist statement from Summer 2008. BIG DIFFERENCE.
It's called growth.
Yay for guts.
Now, Go make something.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Awesomely Super Art Swap!

2009-06-22T18:38:00.006-04:00

There is much excitement at Coach Creative Space due to the arrivals of the Summerlicious ATC Swap treasures. I had so much fun hosting this ATC Swap, and you can see why in this discussion thread where the lovelies are displayed. There were twenty swappers who created yummy visions of summer loveliness for fellow CCSers. I love the individual interpretation of the summer theme, and the variety of media used to create the art. Please consider joining us for the next swap.
CCS was begun by the awesomely sensitive and effective creativity coach, Dan Goodwin, and is an encouraging environment for beginners as well as experienced artists, writers, musicians, dramatists, dancers, seamstresses, sculptors, and creatives of all media. Many of the members have found this community non-competitive, loving,and accepting, meeting friends around the world with similar interests. The groups there give you the opportunity to share your work without fear of criticism or rejection.
Most members, including myself, report that their creative production rate has increased exponentially, they find themselves exhibiting or being published, and creative blocks have disappeared since joining Coach Creative Space. I know:I'm one of them! Click here to visit my CCS page and view videos, photos of my sketchbooks, CCS blog entries, and more.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

In Just a While...

2009-06-15T19:08:00.008-04:00

Readers, I have to go out of town on business for the rest of the week. Don't think I'll have internet access. Withdrawal symptoms already setting in...
See you soon with more art and stuff. Keep creating, writing, and being wonderful.
Above are some journal pages. Below are a couple of snaps of a miniature wire chair created at a workshop a couple of years ago.
Have a great week!
DJ

An Awesome Read...

2009-06-14T22:05:00.002-04:00

I was visiting the new blog of my fellow CCSer, Jo, which is named "Gathering Wild" and enjoyed her poignant sharing of an important relationship honored by a box of crayons. Well written and worth a visit. Enjoy the scent of an old and new box of crayons...

PJ's Giveaway!

2009-06-09T07:33:00.000-04:00

The talented Folk Artist, PJ Hornberger, over at PJ's Talking is having a One Year Blogging Anniversary Giveaway on June 29th! She's giving away your choice of a print of her lovely folk art OR a workshop on her Ning Group, PJ's Art House. You can comment here to enter the giveaway of this sweet lady who does beautiful and whimsical art work as well as generous video instruction. Check it out!

End of Week One & "Weak Too"...LOL!

2009-06-08T17:27:00.000-04:00

^~Palette Knife Landscape V by DJ 16x20 Oil on Canvas May 2009
Hi, Kids!
Above is the result of the final hours of my five hours in Week One.
A departure from the ocean shores of the first four, yes. In content and technique. More impasto and complementary underpainting, to boot.
Weak Too accomplishments?
You guessed it: Nada. Zilch. Nothing. Lemme spell it out for you:
The. Last. Week. of. School. Before. Summer. Break.
Now you know. Exams. Drama. Pleading. Picking up portfolios. Cleaning. Sheesh.
But, hey, it's officially Summer! Time to paint. Time to breathe. Time to have the luxury of choices.
Whee.
Hey, did you see what my adorable DH did in "comments" for the last post? Gotta love a man like that...We just celebrated our 8th Anniversary...Prolly contributed to my not getting into the studio, also, if the truth be told...LOL!
Happy Summer, Everyone! Grab that paintbrush! Dip it in paint! Apply to surface!
There you go!
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Week One of the Studio Challenge...WHEE!

2009-05-30T18:39:00.000-04:00

V~Palette Knife Landscape I by DJ 16x20 Oil on Canvas May 2009

V~Palette Knife Landscape II by DJ 16x20 Oil on Mat Board May 2009

V~Palette Knife Landscape III by DJ 16x20 Oil on Canvas May 2009

V~Palette Knife Landscape IV by DJ 16x20 Oil on Canvas May 2009

I'm happy: I'm painting.
The first palette knife painting was done on a Monday night two weeks before this Studio Challenge, and Monday night, May 25th, I started painting a second palette knife landscape that's turned into a series.
So, it's apparent that Monday nights are high energy level nights for me. I'm rested from the weekend, and not too bogged down in the brain with work responsibilities. Yay. So, look for those times when you're high energy for best productivity in the studio or at the work table.
I made an adjustment to the first painting, and may make adjustments to the more recent paintings posted here. Taking photos enables you to see color and value relationships a bit more objectively, but beware that cameras may pick up on a certain hue group and tint your composition. I have two other photos: a blue version of the first painting, and a green version of the same. My relatively inexpensive camera "read" the overall hue and that's what it saved. So, when photographing your work, check on this.
All of these paintings were done with a palette knife in oils on either canvas or mat board. There were no preliminary sketches done, so all compositions were rendered as work progressed. There were no photographic references; just the making of landscapes that derived from my imagination. Decision-making can be fun when you're in a work zone of applying paint in a physical movement that makes you happy.
For example, it took me thirty minutes to apply the sky in painting 2. I was having a great time listening to music and swiping that palette knife across the canvas. Getting those smooth gradations with a palette knife is not as easy as it may look to the untrained eye. But it's fun for some of us art nerds who have oil paint under our nails. Paintings 2 & 3 were done in about an hour 1/2, and painting 4 was done in about an hour. So, that's two 1/2 hours of studio time I have left for this weekend! Woohoo!
Forgive the boring titles, but I'm too excited about getting them out there on canvas. Titles will come later, after I've lived with them for a while. And, yes, I know that in most of these so-called "landscapes," there's more sky and sea than land, so they may be renamed seascapes or skyscapes. All in good time, my friend...
All reactions welcome, negative or positive - I can take it.
Please leave a comment, so I don't have to bug my sweet DH for feedback.:-)
Love & Laughter,
DJ

New Challenge

2009-05-25T16:53:00.001-04:00

What have I done?
Oh, well -- It's all Robin's fault! :-) (Her blog is Midlife Artist in right sidebar)
You can read about the Challenge here.
Care to join us?
There's a challenge of committing a certain number of hours per week to being in the studio. The going rate is 20 hours, but for those of us working mortals, we can set the goal according to our schedules.
I commented on Robin's blog that my studio time has been sporadic, so I want to create a routine of easel painting on a regular basis. I'm committing to five hours per week, and for those of you who know my job responsibilities as a high school art teacher, you know five hours is a big hunk of time for me.
I don't know if I'll be reporting to American Artist mag or not, but I'll definitely be open to encouragement from blogging artist friends.
OK, lemme rephrase that: I will definitely NEED encouragement from blogging artist friends!
Love & Laughter, (& Paint!)
DJ

Tell it Like You See it

2009-05-20T19:35:00.000-04:00

OK, folks! Here goes!
Fringe Girl is rockin' out ID!!!!!
Check out the 68+ comments on this blogpost.
Weigh in on the issue, if you want...
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Time- Shmime!

2009-05-17T18:36:00.001-04:00

Monday night, May 18th, I was having an e-mail conversation with the multi-talented artist, Camille, who, fortunately for me, is one of my awesome Coach Creative Space family members. Over at CCS, we're having a Five for Five Summerlicious ATC Swap, so we were discussing the Swap and the fact that I had viewed Camille's lovely tea bag art in the Photos section of CCS.
I mentioned something about not having time to create because of work responsibilities right now, and after I sent the e-mail, I realized that the comment really urked me.
One thing led to another, and before you know it, in an act of rebellion, I was in the studio doing a quick palette knife painting and humming along to some of my fave music. Time-shmime! I'll create when I get good & ready!

Palette Knife Landscape by DJ oil on canvas 16x20"
PS~ Feel free to join us for the Summerlicious ATC Swap! Love & Laughter, DJ

Just a Quick Gesture

2009-05-10T17:12:00.000-04:00

For Sara at her blog, Living the Artist's Way...She's quite the heart-hunter, and I discovered this magnolia leaf in my yard the other day. I decided I'd share...May we all be heart hunters. Love & Laughter, DJ

Monumental Moments

2009-04-29T19:06:00.000-04:00

I was visiting my ceramic artist friend, Jean's, blog, a Joyful Spirit, when I read her post entitled "An Ordinary Day...NOT" and was enchanted with the story-like photos of her day.
She was looking for "the special" in the little things in life, and I was left wondering what "monumental moments" we all overlook in our hurriedness to get through our verbs...working, transporting, preparing, dressing, cooking, laundering, talking, feeding, bathing, serving, meeting, cleaning, assisting, writing, composing, answering, driving, reassuring, calling, and say-huh? ...Oh, yes- sleeping!
You know those monumental moments, such as smelling a child's hair when you hug them. Or when your husband squeezes your shoulders as he passes by the computer table. Or the light in your pet's eyes when you come through the door after working late.
What about that first little league game? Or maybe it was the good-bye hug at the preschool door?
What about that first light on a Sunday morning...Or the feel of your favorite pen gliding across those morning pages?
Or that stranger who held the door for you last shopping spree?
Maybe it was seeing that first spring flower. Perhaps it was a home-cooked meal that you didn't have to cook...
And remember that friend who lifted you up in prayer or deed when you needed it most?

Hmmm...Funny, these things aren't really earth-shattering or expensive, are they?
But their value is beyond measure.
How can you give someone a "monumental moment" today?
Thanks, Jean, for giving me one...
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Indomitable Spirit

2009-04-18T19:40:00.000-04:00

Well, it seems I'm not the only survivor around here.

A few weeks ago, DH & I were to attend a family gathering and see some folks we had not met. I thought it would be nice to bring a bit of a prezzie for the couple we were meeting, so I purchased a rose in one of those plastic wrappings that has been pruned back, but will grow when planted. So, I put it into a gift bag with tissue paper, and put it in the back seat floorboard of the car when we left to attend the dinner. Well, as my life goes, there was more than one "new" couple there, so I didn't worry about pulling out the gift. I brought it home and sat it on my back porch.

And left it there. Among the other houseplants.

And the thing has grown two feet and BLOOMED right in the plastic wrap, gift bag and all...

And, yes, if I had planted it and cared for it, it would have perished...but just look at it...
Merriam-Webster defines "indomitable" as "incapable of being subdued; unconquerable".

Yes, we should all bloom so beautifully, even if we feel different from the other plants.

Love & Laughter... and wishing YOU an indomitable spirit,

I'm a Survivor

2009-04-10T09:11:00.000-04:00

Hello friends, to those lovely readers who thought I'd deserted my hangout here, and to those of you precious seekers who have just now stumbled upon this blog-baby by accident.
I'm DJ and I've been busy with "Life" in myriad ways lately!
I've survived various stressors including a twice-hospitalized grandchild, emergency spinal surgery on my pet, 16 hour workdays, and long-time colleagues losing their jobs.
Honey, am I glad to see Spring!
The least I can do for you, beloved readers, is to return here and share photos of recent work.
Please leave a quick comment, so I'll live to blog another day. :-)
The first is an abstract oil on 24x32" mansonite that began with questionable results. I lived with it on my easel for weeks, trying to decide if it was complete. One evening, I threw caution to the wind, and boldly began applying colors and white in a drybrush technique. I felt the painting come to life and I now enjoy the whimsical results. Title: "From Ugly to Painting with White on the Mountain" :-) The next one is an even freer attempt at applying oil to 24x32" masonite, entitled "Jungle Fire".
This is an acrylic on 17x20" mat board inspired by an oil pastel sketch. The original idea has yet to be realized, so I'm smelling a series. Title: "Buildings I"
This is my most recent oil on canvas, 18x24" with a long story behind it. Long story short, it represents rising from the ashes of my recent life-stressors to begin again. Title? "Isaiah 40:31" of course :-) All observations, negative & positive, welcome. Please leave a comment below so I can return the favor. Love & Laughter, DJ

Drawing Lesson 3 Whoopsie-Daisy

2009-01-19T14:12:00.000-05:00

I know; you can already draw flowers. Just draw those little petals around a circle, and you have it. Or, maybe you wonder about how to make it look real.

Here's a start on making your own bouquet.

Start with a structure of a simple circle and a plus sign at the top of your paper.

Add an oval with a plus sign that has shorter verticals.

This oval will be slanted and to the left of center, as pictured.

Now go back to your circular plus sign and make each line a petal.

Add an X of lines, and make those petals, too. Then, add petals in between the + and the X.

Yes, flowers have lots of petals, so add some loops to create more layers.

Now, add shading to the beginning center of some of the petals to create depth. Artists know color shading and tinting as "value". So, we're adding values, which imply light and dark.

Now, to give the center some body, add some vertical hatch marks to imply the side of the "clump", to be technical, ahem. Add some random dots n dashes to imply texture. Then, go to the second flower, which is not looking straight at you, but it tilted. Add petals and shading, but let the vertical petals be shorter. The in-between petals will gradually lengthen to meet the horizontal petals. This creates the illusion of the flower being tilted.

Perhaps you can see this better in a close-up shot...

After drawing those realistic flowers, add some stems and leaves. Don't forget your values on these, so they look real, too.
Create more varieties of flowers by looking in garden catalogs, on the internet, or in your own backyard, when weather permits. Use them in your journals or paintings. These are lovely in fine-tip marker colors!

Create Mother's Day or birthday gifts by painting them on wooden trinket or jewelry boxes purchased at your fave craft store. Just mix several shades of a color, and follow these sketches for lights n darks. Don't forget some lovely greens for the foliage. Add a vine that travels around your box. Add tiny buds along the sides. And you can add some hearts for Valentine's Day, of course. Mistakes? Wipe off what you don't like, and paint again.

What will you do with your new flower drawing skills?
Please comment below, and let me know how your beautiful bouquet is progressing.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Swaps & Journals & Julia Cameron

2009-01-06T21:54:00.000-05:00

Here are some journals & sketchbooks I've been playing in during 2008. A couple of moleskines, a couple of Strathmore Windpower sketchbooks that conserve natural resources, an altered book with green ribbon, and a little brown hardcover book I made in a workshop.
Notice Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way" beneath the moleskines. At my fave artist community, Coach Creative Space, there is a group discussing Cameron's "Vein of Gold". Please join us; we'd love to have you. Check it out here...

This is a sketch that I want to revisit this year, perhaps with a gift of color. Sincere apologies for the blurred photo; haven't viewed it since I uploaded it months ago. May try to edit later. :-)

An ATC I created for The CCS Cozy Christmas ATC Swap. I enjoyed drawing this in ink, then using colored pencils to add softness to the scene. Portraying "whimsy" is not always a strongpoint of mine, so when anything close to it happens, I enjoy it!
I have a shiny new moleskine for 2009, so I'll be sharing fresh work as it appears on the pages.
More drawing lessons to come, so check back, and please leave a comment, so I can return the favor.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Inspiration is Never Far Away

2008-12-30T21:07:00.002-05:00

Tuesday was a lovely day, after taking Monday to recuperate from all the weekend holiday fanfare. In the evening, it was mild enough to go outside with camera in hand to see what I could find of interest.

I found the plant below blooming much too early due to the milder temperatures, and I dread the loss of its tiny flowers to coming frosts in February. Someone told me it is called "Breath of Spring" and it smells sweet like honeysuckle. I usually snip some branches & bring them inside to scent the house.

The nandinas that previous owners planted always provide color in my backyard.

There are precious green shoots of Snowdrops rising beside my back door at the base of a Dogwood tree.

This is one of three abandoned feral kittens that have taken up residence in my back yard.
The fact that I've been feeding them has nothing to do with their presence, I'm sure--
Ahem...

Of course, I'm not at all attached to them, or anything...but, if you're wondering, um--her name is Alex. :-)

After feeling inspired by my backyard foray, here's how dinner was started...I've been craving mashed potatoes during the fall months. Guess those root veggies stick to the ribs for hibernation.

Red Bell Peppers added some color to the potatoes and fish that a friend's husband caught and filleted earlier.

Here's the results, with green peas, mashed potatoes, and baked fish on colorful Fiestaware. Sorry the pic is blurry, but had to snap it before taking it to my cute husband. We enjoyed the lowfat meal after all the richness of the holiday feasts.
Hope your week is inspirational, and you find even more inspiration in 2009.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Oh, the Possibilities

2008-12-27T12:21:00.000-05:00

Wow...2009 is upon us. A clean sparkling calendar.
The thought of a new year with a fresh slate makes my creative juices simmer on a low boil. Sound familiar? Yours, too?
As artists, we see the possibilities in so many areas of our lives: Visually, you may be thinking of using that new technique or medium we've been hearing about...Physically, can you cut back on something you'd rather not put into your body or just move every other day? Mentally, can you take a class, read a book, or change an old, worn out paradigm? Can you think about that relationship in a new way, so there's no stress between the two of you? Wanna clean out that closet? Organize your studio? Could you think about giving up that bad habit? Or, take a step toward getting help in releasing the stranglehold that addiction has on you?

Wait a minute, you say.
All of this sounds too much like work. Too much effort.

Really? Well, let's think about that, for a minute...
No matter how you cut it, the big picture we're looking at....is GROWTH.
There are two choices: growth or stagnation.

Ugh! ...stagnation?

You know, like pond scum.
Water that doesn't move produces it...pond scum.
Pale, green, stagnant algae.

What's your pleasure?

This morning, I did something SO out of character for me. I did a walk/run over to a walking track. I'm still patting myself on the back for it. My feet stung. My lungs heaved. But I did it.
I moved!
Pictured is one of my stinging feet hitting my front step, with sweatpant-clad knee above it in the foreground.

I can't wait to stir the waters in other areas of my life. Cool clear nourishing water!
What about you?

Love & Laughter, --- and Growth!
DJ

Drawing Lesson 2: Eye Candy

2008-12-21T22:43:00.000-05:00

Since we drew hands last week, I thought we'd go to portraits this week. As you know, the most expressive feature is the eyes. So, let's see what we can do with a female eye...

We'll start with a football shape. No, not a rugby ball. :-) Make sure the bottom is flatter than the top.

Now, let's add a tear duct in the corner, and some parentheses that don't quite touch. The top is farther apart than the bottom.

Next, we'll put a circle inside that touches the top. Make the widths between the circle and the parentheses even all the way around.

Next, draw a diagonal inside the pupil. Add a curved shape.

Next, shade in all around so the tiny shape starts to look like a crescent.
This will be the light reflection, and give your portrait life.

Next, add spokes as if it were a wheel, radiating from the pupil.

Notice I added some soft scallops to the outer edge of the iris.
Then, add a line for a lid above and below the football, without it touching the eye.

Now, add some eyelashes. They are not all the same length, since they're growing at different rates, and they curve out and up. Usually, you want to start at the outer corner, and let them taper off as you go inward.

The bottom lashes are fewer, and they curve out and down. Only use a few under the iris, and let those be shorter.

Now, let's plan the eyebrow. Go up from the tear duct, and make a nice arch.

So it looks natural, we don't want to color in, but draw the hair in the direction in which it grows.
Usually it lays down as it goes out on the arch.

I added some shading beside the bridge of the nose. Darken your pupil more than I did, OK?
How did you do?
Male eyes are different, so we'll tackle those later.
Practice drawing a natural set of two with the second reversed and about an eye's length between them. You can begin by drawing a line across your paper to get them even, then erase it when you're done. I'll review it next time, also.
What do you think of your work? If you didn't draw it, try it; you may surprise yourself.
Thank you so much for joining me in another drawing lesson!
Leave me a comment or question below.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Love & Laughter in Links

2008-12-16T05:03:00.000-05:00

Since starting my own blog, I'm discovering so many blogs that encourage, delight, and inspire.
Here are a few that you may want to add to your list of faves.
To reflect on that first Christmas, visit here for "Let's Do Christmas Like They Do It in Texas"
And if you're looking for a different medium, check out Jo's yummy eye-candy using "Walnut Ink Crystals" here.
Visit Here for a run-down of inspiring posts from Christine Kane, down-to-earth philosopher and awesome musician. Pick whatever's on your mind today from the list.
As a creativity coach, Dan Goodwin has helped thousands of artists flourish and prosper. Dan is not only the site manager of the artists' community Coach Creative Space, but he's also a prolific writer on the topic of creativity. He can cut away the excess baggage, and zoom in on the issue like no one else I've read. (He's also an excellent zookeeper, but I'll let him explain that one to you.) If procrastination keeps you from creating, here's your man. Tell him DJ sent you.
Having a heart for children, I have been sponsoring a lovely little boy in Brazil through World Vision International. They have locations and programs around the world, are tax deductible, and have a stellar reputation in the handling of donated funds. If you've ever wanted to express love to children that have been struck by poverty, abuse, or natural disaster, visit here.
My heartfelt thanks to everyone who's visited, commented, or tried the drawing lesson below. May you experience the Love of Christmas in a special way this holiday season.

Love & Laughter,
DJ

Wintertime and the Living's Easy

2008-12-15T19:32:00.001-05:00

Well, Western Hemisphere friends, winter has definitely arrived. And many of us suffer from winter blues, the December doldrums, or seasonal depression. Since my favorite time of year is summer, I begin feeling something's missing every year in the fall, and struggle to keep a brighter outlook on life until I see green buds of hope in the spring. After all these years, I've had to get creative just to survive and thrive.
Here's a few tricks I've used to beat the winter blues:

~ shop for someone you love, including yourself
~ paint a 3-D object bright colors
~ write/journal with hot tea or cocoa
~ make a blanket
~ buy a sweater that's gorgeous
~ light a candle and pray and listen
~ string Christmas lights in an unusual place like office or bathroom
~ snuggle with someone you love, whether human or pet
~ use the fireplace
~ turn on the radio/Pandora and dance
~ drink lots of water to stay hydrated
~ cook all the earthy recipes your mother used to cook
~ write down her recipes for a younger family member
~ make a scrapbook that's zany and comical, rather than serious
~ paint your toenails AND fingernails RED
~ dress for napping success, complete with accessories such as hot cocoa and a book
~ create a pillow of your own design
~ crochet/knit/sew scarves for storm victims/homeless/military/less fortunate
~ cook something/create a basket for your next door neighbor and deliver it/leave it on the doorstep
~ write that book/play/e-zine/article you always wanted to write
~ ask the kids to help you make a fort from chairs and blankets, then share a treat inside along with a good book
~ toast marshmallows over the fire in the fireplace, make S'mores with a loved one
~ write about a happy childhood, even if you have to make it up
~ form a pile of junk mail, and create a collage/journal page from every sales ad or envelope
~ arrange a creative afternoon of photography outside or inside, by finding small forms and colors in unusual places
~ take a walk to collect interesting leaves, rocks, or shells
~ rent that offbeat comedy that you've always wanted to watch, but didn't get to the theater to see (don't forget the popcorn)

What would you add to this? What's worked for you?

And, please, practice being kind to yourself during the cold months, my friends,
Love & Laughter,

DJ

Drawing Lesson 1

2008-12-13T12:02:00.000-05:00

OK, children! Let's have some fun!

Go, turn on your music. Maybe grab something to drink or snack on...Then, get those pencils and erasers ready to make imperfect artwork...You'll notice that my lines are uneven, my corners aren't straight, and it doesn't matter! Jump in with a fun-loving attitude and love yourself for doing something different.

I chose to start with hands, because they are an unusual subject for many. Hands are an interesting addition to your art journal pages, and can be used for many visual projects.

Besides, in the previous post, I told you I was going to hold your hand through this, did I not? :-)

Let's see what we create today, shall we?

Begin by drawing a squarish rectangle on the lower half of your paper. Notice that mine is not a perfect square or a perfect rectangle. The lines don't meet, and I'm not worried about it. Neither should you! {I'm drawing the new lines in the next photo in blue, and the previous lines will be in pencil. Yours will be in pencil, of course, because we'll need to do some erasing at the end.}

Now, we're going to add two lines slanting inward. Then, close that space with a horizontal line. {Previous lines in pencil; new lines in blue, right?}

Next, we'll add two lines traveling to the bottom of the paper. These lines flare out just a bit, like soft-flaring blue jeans or pants.

Then, add a triangle, or a backwards seven, to the side. You'll be happier if it stops about halfway up. This is a sketch, so we're not going to worry about the "P" word, right? I knew you could do it.

Now, add a block on top of the triangle. Let the outside line go straight up, and let the inside line slant away from the square. Now, it's starting to look like a hand...

Next, we're going to divide the top of the square in half with a small mark. Then, we'll divide the two spaces in half again. That's three marks total, as above. This helps us draw the fingers. Take your time...

OK, take a sip of your fave beverage, and let's talk about fingers. There are three sections. (Look at your hand for verification of this; I'm not making this stuff up, ya know... :-)

If you bend your fingers down to the first section from the palm, which is the longest? The next to the longest? The third? And, of course, pinky...

So, we're going to draw that first section by adding blocks. The blocks need to be slightly tapered as they go up, OK? The middle one is the tallest, the pointer is next, the ring-finger is next, and pinky makes four.
Thumbelina needs to be slightly turned, so the outside is straight, and the inside is curved. (Again, check out your own hand :-)

You can do this. And, you have a precious little eraser. Don't hurt his feelings by ignoring him. I give mine lots of usage. :-)

Well, Thumbelina is done, so let's add another section to the fabulous four, shall we? And, let's keep the same height differences, OK?

Now, on top of those, we're going to add upside down U's. So, you will have two rows of blocks, and one final top that's curved. The heights still apply.

How's it looking? Do you need to make adjustments now that you can see what you're doing? Go right ahead, and make those adjustments now...

What's this? Don't panic. It's your drawing. Just erase all the inside lines until you have nothing left but the outline, and you'll have this in front of you, too.

Now, add some oval finger nails. Put the thumb nail on the outside, because she's turned slightly, remember? Add two or three light lines for wrinkles at the knuckles, and wrinkles at the joining of the thumb and the back of the hand. Add some little slanted lines at the bottom of the former blocks, where the fingers join the hand. I added a bit of shading to the sides of the wrist and the sides of the fingers to give them a 3-D look.

You have now drawn a hand in one position. How do you feel about achieving that today?
We may draw hands in other positions, if you're interested. So, what do you think of your new drawing?
I know: You didn't draw it; you just read through the post, without drawing it. Now, go back and do it. Well, go ahead. This is your life. Enjoy it, my friend.
When you do draw it, draw another one to get really good at it, then cut it out and use it in your journal, or sketchbook. Collage stuff in your hand. Chop off three fingers, and let it point to something! Write silly things around it, like "gimme a hand" or "I wanna hold your hand". Have fun!
Please post questions, achievements, and opinions below. I'll answer below, or in a new post.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Simplicity is Elegance

2008-12-10T22:21:00.000-05:00

A phrase my mother taught me:
Simplicity is Elegance.
We'll start with simplicity.

Now, tell me some things that you would like to be able to draw. What do you want to be able to put on paper? Name some things, or people, or places. Nouns are our friends.
What kinds of things are you comfortable drawing, already? If you aren't comfortable drawing anything, we'll start there.
Tell me your thoughts in comments below.

Before you begin a journey, it's nice to know your present location, hmmmm? On this journey, I'll walk beside you, one step at a time.

The Drawing Lessons will begin this coming weekend, my friends! So, check back here with a sketchbook, or sheets of paper, a pencil, and a large eraser. A nice pink rectangle or a kneaded eraser will serve you well. Don't depend upon those cute little pink things on the end of a pencil. You deserve better, don't you think?
I think you do.
And just maybe, you deserve some elegant background music while you draw.
Enjoy.

See you this weekend, my friends.
Love & Laughter,
DJ

Drawing Lessons Anyone?

2008-12-07T15:45:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wanted to learn how to draw & paint? You've seen others do it. They make it look so easy. You may feel you can do it, also. Or, like many, you may feel just the opposite.
I meet many people who yearn to put pencil or paint to a surface and be adept in representing life's experiences visually. Of course, they normally couch it in self-defeating terms, like, "I couldn't draw a straight line with a ruler." Or there's my favorite comment, from a professional in care-giving work, "My father said the only thing I could draw was flies...so I figured I should stick to other things."
But, let's put aside what we've been told...What if you had the chance to learn?
What if you could draw or paint? What would it feel like, to be able to put your feelings or perceptions on paper or canvas?
What if you could pick up a pencil or sketchbook and amuse yourself out of that job-related stress you've been feeling?
Why don't you think about it, and join me here for the next few weeks, with a pencil and paper or sketchbook. You just might like it.
So, grab a sketchbook or a stack of computer printer paper, and try it.
And, no one has to know. It will be just between us artists...

Getting the Clock Off of Your Back

2008-12-02T21:26:00.000-05:00

Yes, I know, as if the subject of time, and not having enough, isn't already discussed ad nauseum. But, how do we pose solutions to this problem of time?
What do you do to make time for important people or activities in your life?
Can you truly prioritize your desires, or do your minutes get swallowed up in dealing with the responsibilities of everyday survival?
Some of us struggle to have a calm conversation with our family on a daily basis, much less try to accomplish anything creative to nourish ourselves. Just working, getting dinner ready, feeding the pets, remembering appointments, pumping gas, bathing the kids, and making sure laundry is done takes all our excess energy. Then, you want me to do what? Paint? Write a novel? Sew a dress? You gotta be kidding me...Some of us use our spare time for catching up on paperwork from our career...
Yes, I'm there right now. My To-Do List is getting longer, and my nerve endings are getting shorter. More responsibility, more things to remember, more...STUFF.
Yet, I don't want this December to be another mad rush to the finish. Another season of consumerism and stress and running on empty.
So, I'm going to stop it.
Now.
I don't want to live my life on a treadmill any longer. So.
I will live with conscious decisions instead of letting pressures pull me off focus. I will calmly and gently decide how I spend these precious moments, for I don't know how many I have left. I'm not going to worship the "P" Word, but I will pray for peaceful interaction with myself and others who accept the imperfect me. I will make time for activities that feed my soul, rather than ravage it.
Time will be my Christmas present to myself. I will "gift" myself with extra time to arrive at places, extra time to wrap scrumptious presents, extra time to spend cooking, extra time to organize my appointments and my belongings, extra time to look into my husband's eyes and thank him for all that he is, and extra time to reflect upon next year's dreams.
After I open this important present, I'll surely be inspired to create beauty. And, I'll have plenty of time to act upon those inspirations.

A Daringly Creative Christmas

2008-11-30T20:03:00.000-05:00

December is upon us, so let's get creative and tackle our Christmas List. The economy is not good, in the U.S., and elsewhere in the world, so let's think about some creative gifts to stretch those dollars and give that checkbook a rest.
Some of my creative friends on CCS are using Advent Calendars that prompt creativity each day. Others are busy in the needle arts to create scarfs, sweaters, or mittens for children this winter.
Some will paint portraits, bake cookies, enlarge photos, sculpt platters, or stitch wall hangings for loved ones. Several years ago, I baked sugar cookies, put them in antique teacups, wrapped them in cellophane, and tied a ribbon across the top. One recipient declared a new family tradition on the spot. {Note to Self: I need to do that again this year! LOL...} Last year, I stamped fern leaves onto white linen squares for my niece to use as table toppers or napkins in her new apartment, pictured above.
Lemme tell ya! It certainly beats traipsing around the crowded malls or standing in line amid the cheap plastic dust-catchers at the discount stores.

So, I dare you.
Where do your talents lie? Does a stressed single mom need a sitter? Does an elderly neighbor need snow shoveled, or leaves gathered via blower or rake? Does a child need a teddy bear sewn with loving hands? Would a single Dad like some sugar cookies to share with his kids during the holidays? Would your mother appreciate a portrait of herself with her mom and you as three generations of love? Paint it or Photo Shop it! Is there a jewelry maven in your family? There are lots of bead selections to choose from online; just string them and attach a clasp.
Now, that wasn't so hard, was it?
A handmade item has a little part of you invested in that gift, so start thinking about how you can share yourself this Christmas.
After all, you are the most precious gift possible...
Just like that one and only baby boy in the manger to whom we should all wish a Happy 2008th Birthday.

Perfection or Completeness...

2008-11-28T23:55:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, in an artist's life, perfection rears its ugly head. It appears to most of us at one time or another in our lives, and to an artist, it can be just as paralyzing. Some of us refer to it as the "P" word...
It keeps us from accomplishing anything, before we even begin. The whispering spectre of our Inner Critic convinces us that if we aren't going to do things without blemish, then those endeavors are worthless: "Why try? What will others think? Someone will point out that mistake or omission, and what will you say? Stick to what you do well, so you won't look foolish..."
The whispers continue endlessly, don't they?
Until you leave the easel, the studio, walk away from the worktable, the music, the sewing machine, put the pen down. Sometimes, you feel that's the only way to shut up the voices?
It isn't.
There are things you can do to quiet the doubts and fears, so you can find joy in creating.
Try talking back.
Tell your Inner Critic to check out your past successes.
Tell your IC that you're going to just slop some paint around, or play imperfect music, or write some bad poems, just for the moment.
You're not going to show it to anyone, so that's not a problem. It's just for your pleasure, so it doesn't have to be scrutinized.
Pick up that brush, pen, or needle and fool your IC into quieting down by not wanting perfection, but COMPLETENESS.
You want to do one project to its completion. Period. It doesn't have to be Tchaikovsky or Renoir or Wang. You just want to finish it.
When you finish it, DON'T tweak it, don't make adjustments, quit FIDDLING with it!
Hang it on your wall. Hang the sewn pocketbook. The essay. The score you composed. Frame it in a store-bought frame. Quick! Do it now. On the wall it goes.
Put your name on it.
You did it.
Now, how are you going to celebrate?
Your favorite cuppa something? A nap to view your work as you doze off?
A walk through a park with your head up and a smile on your face?
Maybe some new supplies for your next imperfect project?
Now, you're complete.