Crazy Ravens Studio

Bomb Girls

2012-01-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

I wish the writing were better because I think the premise is great, but I would watch it for the costumes. If you love vintage fashion, especially of the 1940's, you should check this out.

Ruth and Rita

2012-01-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

Ruth and Rita 16x20 acrylic

A hockey painting headed for Black Star Gallery.

Hey, you can help me out by voting for my paintings by going to: http://www.bcpondhockey.com/center-ice-art-contest.html and giving me a vote.

Artemis

2012-01-24T08:46:00.000-07:00

Artemis 8 1/2x 11

This is one of the collages I have made for my collage project.

Plum Crazy

2012-01-23T07:31:00.000-07:00

Corduroy dress (sewn by me)

belt (winners)

tights (we love colors)

shoes (thrifted)

having fun---you bet.

Go over to Not Dead Yet Style #30 and check out the other women having fun with their wardrobes.

BE visble!

http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/

Judy Walker--collage artist

2012-01-21T16:11:00.000-07:00

"Midnight Moon"

This is one of the beautiful collages made by Judy Walker. It is going to be included in my "moon" collage project. Even her envelopes were a visual treat.

Committment

2012-01-18T15:42:00.000-07:00

"Listen" 8/5 x 11

collage for collaboration

embossed wallpaper, rust paper, paper/interface blend on gessoed watercolor paper

In March last year, I entered into a collaboration with a couple of other collage artists. I received some inspiring decorated mail art envelopes and beautiful work. Alas, I got carried off in different directions by a number of projects and am only just now getting around to my share of the committment. So hang in there, Judy and Carney. I am slow but steady and will be sending you some work very soon.

That was then, this is now

2012-01-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

I was never really happy with this painting. I have niggled at it several times. Today I decided to lighten the background and add some Crazy Ravens collage. I also narrowed her face. I am happier with it now.

pink tutu 16x16

Bohemian

2012-01-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the colors in this jumper. The only thing that wasn't thrifted was the t-shirt.

Off to check on the inspiring ladies at NOt Dead yet style #29:

http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/

2012-01-14T08:41:00.000-07:00

Argh...I just opened Pandora's box! Pinterest is fascinating. I found recipes and ideas galore but be warned. The poster is the truth.

Thanks to everyone who offered remedies for a fall. I'm fine today. And I was wearing cleats on my boots! Actually, the stupid cleat caught on a rock and that was what threw me off-balance. Dang.

Rink RAt

2012-01-13T08:06:00.000-07:00

Rink Rat 16x20

This one was based on a photo of my younger daughter when she was playing hockey. That was when I began to appreciate the game.

I fell (hard) while out walking the dogs yesterday. Now I feel old, stiff and lacking energy. But tomorrow will be a better day. Actually, I might feel better if I go do some yoga!

Marjorie's team

2012-01-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

Marjorie's team 20x16 acrylic

I met a really cool lady by the name of Doreen Lamond in 2008. One of our local papers had posted a photo of a group of 1938 girl hockey players. I tracked Doreen down and received her permission to make a painting of that photo. She came to see the painting when it was on exhibit in Cranbrook and told me stories about how her and her sister had played hockey, borrowed their brothers skates and fallen down a lot, but as she stated "they made their own fun". This painting is based on another photo, the one of her sister, Marjorie's team.

Getting crafty

2012-01-09T14:13:00.001-07:00

I had an old embroidered choli top that would not possibly fit but I loved the fabric. So I cut chunks of it and tacked it onto a black shirt.

I put the leftover on the back but I think it looks rather silly. I think I'll take it back off and save that part for another project.

Off to Visible Monday #28 at http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/

The other one

2012-01-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

This is the other rag quilt. I am going through my fabric stash and discovered that I have at least two other sets of quilt blocks half-way done. Sigh, I even gave away two boxes of fabric in the last couple of days. New Years goal: get it done or let it go.

Fuzzy comforters

2012-01-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

I labored before christmas to make fuzzy comforters for my daughters. This is one of them.

Changing things up

2012-01-02T20:30:00.000-07:00

Originally, I really liked Lenore but I felt that her complexion was putting people off. I was trying something different but I didn't feel it was hitting the mark, so...

I made her complexion more "normal". I think I like it even better now, Lenore and the birds stand out more. It wasn't until I posted this that I found shadows appearing on the painting. Sigh, I will photograph again tomorrow hopefully.

Seeing spots

2012-01-02T08:47:00.000-07:00

I wanted a grey cashmere cardigan and something in animal print. Ba-bing, I saw this on Ebay and realized I could kill two birds with one soft stone. I think a big silver necklace would finish this out.

Off to see all the ladies strutting their outfits at Not Dead Yet Style #27 Visible Monday: http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/

Happy New Year 2012

2011-12-31T15:57:00.000-07:00

Hockey girls 24x24

May you keep your stick on the ice!

Across the Lake

2011-12-29T13:53:00.002-07:00

Across the Lake 16x16

Another winter sport painting. It's 40 F here and everything is melting (at least in the valley bottom).

Fun Site

2011-12-28T13:36:00.001-07:00

I found a cool new photo manipulation site at: http://pixlr.com/o-matic/

Load up a photo and try it out. I especially like the old-fashioned looking border that I have been searching for for months!

Merry Christmas to All

2011-12-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas to all my friends and family that are flung far and wide. And to all my art friends who have taught me so much. A special Merry Christmas to all the people who follow my blog and share their stories with me. Your encouragement truly keeps me going when times get rough. May you all get what you need in the coming year and some of the things you want.

Happy Tib's Eve

2011-12-23T06:59:00.001-07:00

Invermere is having a big pond hockey celebration in the beginning of February and there is an art show being held in conjunction with it. I am getting some winter themed paintings ready for it. Anyone have snappy title for this one?

32 Feet and 8 little tails

2011-12-22T08:13:00.001-07:00

When I was four, we lived in an old farmhouse in the country. We had one of those great old radio's (this one belonged to Bruce's family). I had a few 78's that I could play and I would listen to them for an hour at a time, probably driving my mother crazy. Then again, it probably kept me occupied while she got her housework done.(This was pre-TV, my god, how ancient am I!)

Never mind "Rudolf the Red nosed Reindeer". The BEST Christmas song was "32 feet and 8 little tails".
You can listen to it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yz7rMCo5TO4

Most Happy Solstice

2011-12-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

View of the Purcells photoshopped photograph

“Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village, though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sounds the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

Rober Frost

This is one of my favorite poems. I have had the pleasure of riding a horse home on a snowy evening, when the air is still and flakes the size of a quarter are sifting through the sky. There is no sound but her crunching footsteps and the jingle of the bit. The heat of her body rises up and envelopes me, her breath makes a halo around us. That calm beauty is what I hope eternity will be.

Crystal Night

2011-12-20T07:59:00.000-07:00

So I continued to tinker with this painting until I achieved this. I like the colors better and it is a match for the other painting. I am going to hang them facing one another in the dining room for the Christmas season.

Lumber Jill dress

2011-12-18T18:04:00.003-07:00

I have been wanting to sew this dress ever since I saw Green Apples green plaid shirtdress (pattern Vogue 8028, Dec. 11, 2010). I thought it was appropriate for a woman living in a timber mill town. I wore it to a Christmas party the other night and I must say I stood out in a sea of black, white and sequins.

With my furry hat, I'm ready for the winter storms!

I'm off to throw my name in the hat at Not Dead Yet Style Visible Monday #26: http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/

Discombobulated

2011-12-17T16:08:00.001-07:00

This seemed like a good idea at the start and then I felt it went rather sideways.I didn't like the color of the deer against the background. I was going to paint out the background until I saw it in the photo and liked the snowflakes better as they popped in the photo as opposed to how they were looking in my dim basement. I kept at it and will post the result in the next blog entry.

Starry night

2011-12-16T10:51:00.004-07:00

Starry night 16x16 $300

The purples never photograph well. They are actually a bit more pink.

Rosy Dawn on the walking trail

2011-12-12T09:56:00.000-07:00

We had fresh snow yesterday. Facing north.

It has the cosistency of sugar. Facing south

The sunrise was beautiful reflecting off the mountains. Facing west.

Tough old snow dog, Kirra.

Sore footed Fiona, ready to head home (unusual).

I love when the mountains glow.

Falcon

2011-12-10T09:02:00.001-07:00

peregrine falcon 12x12 $200

I like how this painting turned out. The background behind the bird pleases me. I like my Cravens' crosses. That is a design my Dad taught me how to make when I was about 6 years old. I think they look masculine.

Spirit Bear

2011-12-09T06:47:00.001-07:00

In case you didn't know, British Columbia is home to the "spirit bear". You can read about these beautiful animals on the "Moon Willow Press".

http://www.moonwillowpress.com/2011/09/great-bear-rainforest-part-3-the-spirit-bear/

Dude, check it out

2011-12-08T14:01:00.001-07:00

Canadian little drummer boy. And yes, they sometimes wear shorts in the winter in Canada. I especially like the gloves.

http://blogs.calgaryherald.com/2011/12/06/winnipeg-teens-little-drummer-boy-goes-viral/

Christmas spirit

2011-12-07T07:23:00.001-07:00

Betsy and Sally get into the Christmas spirit.

Evolution

2011-12-05T08:12:00.001-07:00

I found this cranberry colored jumper with a boiled wool texture that looked cozy and interesting. It was too long and had unfortunate pockets, one over the belly and another about 6 inches below that. I don't know what the designer was thinking. Maybe they were from Austrailia or were just fascinated with kangaroos. I shortened the length and used the fabric to broaden the sides. I then moved the pockets to the sides. I paired the dark cranberry up with some turquoise and I am ready to face the -15 C breezes.

I love the fuzzy texture of this jumper but it picks up every piece of lint and doghair floating around the house. I expect it will be a shade of pink in the near future. Off to see what they are doing at Visible Monday: http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/

Negrita

2011-12-03T08:51:00.001-07:00

I wanted a pony from the time I was old enough to know what a horse was. For a few blissful years, I owned a high stepping appaloosa named Negrita. She had an unfortunate tendency to shy occasionally and left me to walk home on rough roads in my stupid cowboy boots. But she also helped me fearlessly attack a coyote that was intent on eating my little sheltie (we charged him and scared him off). I had some wonderful rides on her and still miss her. And thankfully, I did finally get my "pony". So keep your fingers crossed, Aunt Peaches.

Buy Local Art

2011-12-02T08:06:00.001-07:00

Lewis woodpecker 12x12 $200

The mad dash for Christmas gift buying is on. Consider supporting a local artist and purchasing a truly unique handcrafted item from one your local galleries. I support:

http://www.blackstarstudios.ca/

http://www.villagearts.ca/index.htm

(Not) Losing my Marbles

2011-11-30T14:32:00.001-07:00

Actually, I found all these pretties in the mud at the dump. I wonder who threw them away and why. Does anyone else remember the cracked marble jewelry craze of the '60's? If nothing else, I am going to pour them into a pretty canning jar and admire the colors.

Alpen glow #1

2011-11-29T08:05:00.001-07:00

alpen glow #1 16x16 $300

I am busy working on Christmas projects and paintings. I want to be able to enjoy the summer this year and not be madly painting for shows. Well, we'll see how that goes. I can't believe its going to be December! Where did 2011 go?

Going Grey

2011-11-28T07:43:00.001-07:00

I wanted to make an outfit with greys and a hat. I do like the line of this denim blazer. Off to join the mix at "not dead yet style visible monday #23".

http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/2011/11/visible-monday-23-breaking-rules-willy.html

Canal Flats first art show

2011-11-27T16:39:00.001-07:00

The Headwaters Arts Society was very pleased with the response of the showing artists and the attending public of their first art show (and sale). Thanks to everyone involved for all the help and support. You can view photos here ( just click on the slideshow button):

https://picasaweb.google.com/pkcravens/CFArtShow02?authkey=Gv1sRgCJjshK2Tt4H4dw

Sassy Bird

2011-11-26T08:44:00.001-07:00

Clark's crow #2 12x12 $175

Today is the first (I think) Art Show and sale in the village of Canal Flats. I was at the community hall last night setting up and was excited by the buzz from the participants. We are going to have 20 varied artists showing their work. Both Councilors De Lorme showed up, yay! One of our main objectives is to show the area that we are indeed rich in artists and we need a space in the new municipal hall so we can meet and create. I think we are off to an auspicious start. Wish us luck!

Bird-brained

2011-11-24T07:42:00.001-07:00

Clark's Crow #1 12x12 $175

Still painting birds. I like the Clark's Crows because they are very graphic in their black, white and grey suits but they make a horrible sound reminscent of the noise the Martians make in "Mars Attack".

When in doubt, take the photo

2011-11-22T08:20:00.001-07:00

While I scorn most graffiti, sometimes, someone had actually made something pretty cool. There are way more photos I wish I had taken than not. I think there is a metaphor for life in there somewhere.

Pink Peaks #1

2011-11-21T14:28:00.001-07:00

Pink Peaks #1 12x12 $175

This is one of those paintings that doesn't photograph well. For some reason, my photo editor is really funny about picking up all the lovely purples.... Anyhow, I admire the effect when the late sun shines off of the snow peaks creating that lovely rosy look. Alpenglow, they call it.

Winter camo

2011-11-20T10:16:00.003-07:00

The dogs that were so conspicuous in the warm green weather are harder to spot now. -18 C this morning. I am having trouble keeping my hands warm when out dog walking. My left hand (the pinkie and ring finger) has scar tissue that is very susceptible to cold weather. It get very cold (almost frozen) even with an acrylic glove stuffed inside my heavy thinsulate gloves. Anyone have any good suggestions to cure this? Short of staying inside!

Another little bird

2011-11-15T07:39:00.002-07:00

chickadee2 12x12 $175

Enough chickadees, on to Clark's crows. When in doubt, put a bird on it. See video for details!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XM3vWJmpfo

Bright Stockings

2011-11-14T08:02:00.003-07:00

I am totally sold on wearing bright stockings. I just received three pair from "We Love Colors" and am trying them out with different outfits. I rather like brown and violet together.

Please check out the link: http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/ visible monday #21

I may not be tres chic, I'll settle for cute. I am having too much fun with this!

Birds on the brain

2011-11-13T08:56:00.001-07:00

Chickadee 1 12x12 $175

There are bright, chippy little chickadees out in the bushes. They make a change from all the crow species we get here.

They also serve who only stand and wait

2011-11-10T09:53:00.009-07:00

Grandma Laura

Well, they didn't just stand and wait. They got on with their lives and took care of the homefront.

Grandma Laura had four sons enlisted in WWII. Cloyd Ray did not come home.

My Mom worked in a garment factory making coats. There were a number of occasions she travelled to meet Dad (who was in service). She said there were guys who tried to pick her up on the trains. She would show them her wedding ring. They would show her theirs!

Doris Cravens

My memories of her were that she never travelled without Dad and was afraid to do so. She must have been terrified but brave to travel alone in her younger years. If she decided she was going to do something, she damn well would have done it (a trait that seems to have been passed on to her daughter and grand-daughters!)

But they did wait, with hope and prayers for the best.

Alabaster and Old Bastard

2011-11-08T08:05:00.002-07:00

Alabaster and Old Bastard 18x24 acrylic collage

I think I just love the title, which was suggested to me by the male model. He really was quite tan and she was translucent. I spent the day playing with the life drawings, and entering a nude painting art show that I am hoping some of these paintings will be juried into. They sure made me (and bruce) jump through hoops getting the formatting they wanted it (grrr.)

Tie-dye tourist

2011-11-07T07:23:00.004-07:00

Inspired by Rice of the "Voodoo Cafe" blog and fellow artist Angelique Gillispie (who always looks cool) I have taken to experimenting with my wardrobe. Because most of it is thrift items, I feel free to chop, stitch and vary as much as I want. This was a ankle length dress that I cut apart and used the bottom to make the sides wider. I love the colors. I may not be tres chic, but I am having fun! Next photo session, I think I will incorporate socks as I am not sold on the flashing white ankles.

Check out visible monday #20 for other women who are becoming visible.
http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/

Pederson Workshop

2011-11-05T07:23:00.005-06:00

Last weekend was spent at Centre 64 attending a Jean Pederson workshop. Jean is a mixed media artist.

We explored using many kinds of acrylic mediums, gesso, transparent to opague paint. My main objective was to learn how to make an abstract look wonderful instead of a dog's breakfast. I think Jean has given me some great steps to achieve that. Check her out at:

http://www.jeanpederson.com/

I love her art installation "Farm Fragments". It consists of lots of ephemara pulled from her Uncle's old farmstead and her abstract paintings inspired by the farm. It takes me right back to the rural Illinois I grew up in.

Dia de los muertos altar

2011-11-02T09:48:00.004-06:00

I made a little altar in remembrance of both of our parents. I played the old tunes my parents used to love and sent out thoughts of love and thanks.

I love the little battery operated votives. You can have the effect of flickering candle light without setting the place on fire.

Keeping the spooky going

2011-11-01T08:38:00.002-06:00

This is gothic and disturbing video from Cocorosie. But I kinda like it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiEqWYawpeU

You knew it was coming

2011-11-01T07:48:00.006-06:00

After painting all those skulls, I was all practiced up for our own costumes for Halloween night. Bruce is hoping that that hair spray washes out.

The day turned out clear and fairly balmy until just when the treaters started to make their rounds and we had a brief rain/snow squall.

I thought these were pretty good costumes for just using what we had in the house.

We had about 80 trick or treaters. Lots of great costumes and the kids are so polite. We are very fortunate.

Dressed for the day

2011-10-31T07:45:00.011-06:00

We were travelling in Arizona, and had just existed a cave tour when I found this beautiful scarf in a dio de los muertos display. I don't think it was actually for sale but when I pressed the salesgirl about it, she sold it to me. YAY! I posted the outfit to visible monday at notdeadyetstyle blog. (I tried to make a link but this post will not let me!!)

Bruce and I have some decorating to do. The candy is all ready to hand out. I will be working on an altar of remembrance for the dead (I'm late as usual). At this hour, it is cold, dark, wet and raining. I hope it clears up for tonight's trick or treaters.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Senora flaca

2011-10-30T07:38:00.002-06:00

senora flaca 12x12 $175

Last day of workshop, phew....I'm ready for a break and to get ready for Halloween.

Rehash

2011-10-29T07:26:00.001-06:00

Can-can is an older collage based on a old poster that sold some time ago. I just threw it up there because I was too busy painting and mucking at Jean Pedersen's workshop yesterday. She had us working hard. Lots of new ideas to consider. Must go eat breakfast and make the drive to Kimberley. Hope I don't run into snow on the way.

Senor Flaco

2011-10-28T06:45:00.003-06:00

senor flaco 12x12 $175

I had an email telling me that my gallery had sold senor and senora hueso and did I have any more. Exultant, I painted hammer and tong over the weekend to create a new couple. Sadly, I then realized they meant they had sold the prints. Oh well, The new couple can grace my walls for Halloween. I rather like his engaging grin.

Off to a workshop with Jean Pedersen. Hope I learn something wonderful!

Autumn

2011-10-27T06:39:00.008-06:00

The temperature is dropping. There is fog coming from the lake until nearly noon.

Yesterday there was hoar frost on the landscape. You couldn't even see a mountain. It was crystal, grey

and cold.

But when I was walking the dog's Sunday morning the sun was out.

The larch are beautiful in the late fall sunshine.

What to do with a life drawing?

2011-10-24T15:46:00.006-06:00

life drawing sketch on 2 sheets of paper taped together

I made dozens of sketches when I was at Red Deer Summer Art Series this summer. It seem a shame to waste all that effort so I have been trying to turn some of the sketches into painting/collages. I like their sense of immediacy and maybe truthfulness.I want to know what you think and I want you to suggest a title.

sketch mounted onto 18x24 canvas, stamped tissue, gold leaf

p.s. check out my updated cool artists list and tell them Crazy Ravens Studio sent you.

IN the Mood

2011-10-24T08:17:00.002-06:00

Suitably depressing, yes?

I posted on visible Monday at: http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/ I find a lot of inspiration for clothing there.

Folkwear patterns

2011-10-22T15:09:00.006-06:00

The reason I called the blouse the armistice blouse (some people were asking) is because that is what it is called by the Folkwear pattern company. I have made a few folkwear patterns over the years.

I have made the Prairie dress a few times. Always a great and comfy heritage outfit. If you go to the Folkwear pattern website, they have a lovely gallery of other sewers projects. Inspirational.

Two projects

2011-10-20T12:37:00.002-06:00

Here is Mabel modelling an armistice blouse I started in the spring! It is lightweight embroidered cotton and will be nice for next summer.

A little jumper I made from a length of thrift fabric. Initially, it was a jumper with a lot of fabric on the sides, very lagenlook style.... do not use cotton for that, too bulky...made my already ample hips huge. So I just scaled it down and made it a little longer and it is my halloween/autumn jumper now.

Senora Hueso

2011-10-19T07:49:00.002-06:00

senora hueso 12x12 $175

The days are getting shorter and colder. We have lots of trees with beautiful orangey-gold leaves, Indian yellow it's called on some paint tubes...they will be gone with the first puff of wind, sigh.

Classic Halloween Movies

2011-10-18T07:58:00.007-06:00

Below is a list of some of my favorite Halloween movies. I am a big scaredy-cat and can't watch anything too creepy. The ones below, though mild, frighten me enough.

The Legend of Sleep Hollow (Disney) 1949 with Bing Crosby narrating.

Sleepy Hollow (Tim Burton directing)1999 (I can't believe it has been that long!) visually stunning.

Monster House (Disney) 2006 ( reminds me of Halloween as a kid)

The Others 2001 (suitably gloomy atmosphere and haunting questions)

The Sixth Sense 1999 (same as above plus the fact the Osment was terrific)

The Birds (classic Hitchcock) love all the strange character interactions. I especially love Tippi Hendren (one of my favorite movies is "Marnie" but that's another blog)

Dracula 1992 (also visually stunning and pretty true to the creepy book)

What are your favorites and why?

Senor Hueso

2011-10-17T13:27:00.003-06:00

Senor Hueso 12x12 $175

I am having way too much fun painting these skulls. I meant to put this one up in the dining room but he has gone off to Village arts co-op instead.

I also posted my "channeling garnet" outfit to:

http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/

Go check out some fashion ideas there.

A stroll in a graveyard

2011-10-15T08:09:00.012-06:00

I love to walk through graveyards, especially older ones. The tombstones have such stories to tell. This graveyard near Elkhart Illinois features a lovely chapel.

Hand pointing to heaven.

Modern version, not quite as artistic but gets the job done.

I really like this simple hand. Maybe, I'll have a stone like that some day (yes, I know I'm going to be creamated but I insist on a memorial stone somewhere.)

Poignant handclasp.

If you look closely, you can see the weeping willow, another grief emblem.

I was impressed by the elaborate carvings on this stone.

Do you think Nashua was a trucker?

This guy doesn't just rate a stone...

he has a bridge!

Anybody else wonder where the heck Mr. Morton ended up?!

Rose skull

2011-10-14T20:10:00.004-06:00

rose skull 8x10 $125

I am trying to develop my Crazy RAvens Studio Facebook page.
You could go to :

http://www.facebook.com/pages/CrazyRavensStudio/119370388073501

and like me or leave me a message or a link.

Sometimes Life is not fair

2011-10-13T08:30:00.004-06:00

One of my real regrets in life is not having seen Lhasa perform when she was in Victoria BC. I love her rich, dark voice and unusual choice of background instruments. Sadly, she passed away January 2010 of breast cancer. I did not know of her passing until a day or so ago. Farewell Lhasa.

Do yourself a favor and listen to her here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGNk_zHy4Mg

Off to the ball at Willow Manor

2011-10-11T23:16:00.013-06:00

I am going to slip into my snappy travelling togs

hop on my Norton

and pick up Georgia O'Keeffe.

Clint Eastwood said he would follow in his pickup and give us a ride home if we got "a little too merry".

Darling Gregory said he would show me his waltz and cha-cha moves

This is the dress I am wearing. Pretty smashing, eh?

You can check out this affair at: http://willowmanor.blogspot.com/

Book BAg

2011-10-11T14:14:00.006-06:00

Inspired by other cool bags on other websites, I decided to take a plain grocery bag from the thrift store and turn it into....

My new library book bag! I wish I had tea stained the lace first....ah well. Note to self, NEVER pass up a piece of velvet.

Purple Skull

2011-10-10T19:42:00.003-06:00

purple skull 8x10 $125

Holy cow, How do the days go by so fast? I am trying not to end my work day when it gets dark. The tendency is to flop down in front of the television....nothing gets done. This is not so bad when it is light out until 10 or 10:30 and you can zone out for an hour or so but it will start getting dark at 6PM soon and that is just too short of a day. I worked seriously at cleaning a quarter of the kitchen, washing and purging...zip.. the day is gone. Now I am trying to get a little sewing done before I settle down for the evening.

Oh well, tomorrow is another day...

Mom Jeans vs. Low rise

2011-10-09T06:56:00.011-06:00

Ah, low rise jeans. We have been brain-washed to think that they are flattering. I beg to disagree. Unless you have a marvelous body, you look like this!

Mom jeans have been getting a bad rap for a couple of decades now. I like a jean that sits on my WAIST, that doesn't have 12 inches of gap at the back, doesn't show my crack (no one wants to see that) doesn't create a muffin top and does define what waist I have left.

So seriously, can you tell me that low rise is better?

Channeling garnet

2011-10-08T10:58:00.002-06:00

I have always admired people that have the "style" gene. I do not have it, but I am trying. I just got really tired of trying to be invisible in jeans and a t-shirt. So, occasionally, I am going to bust out with one of my "outfits". A young stylish salesclerk actually complimented me on this one.

Congratulations to Diane E.! The flicker print is flying off to live with her.

Sugar skulls!

2011-10-06T13:33:00.001-06:00

green skull 8x10 $125

This isn't really a sugar skull but its inspired by sugar skulls. I would love to go to Mexico one of these years and witness the Day of the Dead ceremonies.

Last year's Lenore and give-away

2011-10-05T08:32:00.004-06:00

Lenore 16x20 $350

I made the Lenore painting last year for my dining room for the Halloween season. I must unearth her and hang her up again. I remember when my grade school principal and grade 6/7/8 teacher read this Poe poem and few others to the class. He did a great job reading it and it still gives me shivers.

It's not too late to enter the draw for the print. If you will leave me a comment AND mention my blog to at least one other person, I will put your name in a draw for a 8x10 matted print of the flicker. Draw closes October 5th, 2011 (that's midnight tonight!). Good Luck!

SKULLS

2011-10-02T09:15:00.002-06:00

I have a great fondness for skulls and skeletons and at this time of year I like to wear them. I made these little skulls out of fimo clay and can hardly wait to use them.

Ask and ye shall receive..

2011-10-01T07:33:00.005-06:00

I was thinking that I needed some feathers and maybe a bird skull for a project I am working on and was wondering where I would find them. Same day, Bruce and I heard a "whump" that hit the house. We searched for the cause but didn't find anything until several hours later when we discovered this poor grouse that had flown into the side of the house (they call them "fool hens" for a reason). I figure that this is the universe coming to meet me. I plucked and beheaded the poor deceased thing and left the rest out in the woods for the wild things.

To celebrate October (it being my favorite month), I'm posting a give-away. If you will leave me a comment AND mention my blog to at least one other person, I will put your name in a draw for a 8x10 matted print of the flicker. Draw closes October 5th, 2011. Good Luck!

2011-09-30T08:50:00.003-06:00

I found this cool snakeskin bag in a thrift store. Now I want to change it up similar to a way cool altered doctor's bag I saw on "A vintage Green Life". Go check it ou t(look under August) here:

http://avintagegreenlife.blogspot.com/

He used antlers in all of his decorating....

2011-09-29T08:08:00.003-06:00

The Moose Hut 16x16 $250

This is an older painting. In this area, nearly every garage, toolshed and barn has a set of antlers hung on them. I like to stand on the back deck or by the fire in our firepit and listen for the elk making their lovecalls to their ladies.

Here is a short video of an elk bugling:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYzWmKlZtrU

Shadows

2011-09-28T08:43:00.002-06:00

Trying on my tophat.

I met artist Darcy Wanuk yesterday. Her energy has me all fired up to work on my business plan and exploring new marketing ventures. But right now I have to walk the dogs and make some antipasto!

When I'm not painting...

2011-09-25T09:54:00.004-06:00

There will be time for painting when it is cold outside. It was hot and sunny yesterday, a perfect time for cleaning and painting a couple of dump projects. I like the bones of this old chair. I had to tear off the original green upholstry (packed with straw, a hornet's nest[defunct] and a thousand carpet tacks!). I had Bruce screw the split leg back together (not a classy job but hopefully functional).

This ugly old brown table is actually a rather clever drop down. It may become an art table. I am priming it then painting it a lighter color.

Hoarder or Collector

2011-09-24T08:30:00.004-06:00

I am torn between dragging home all sorts of finds from thrift stores, yard sales and the dump and trying to clear the clutter and simplify the collection. Almost every time I get rid of stuff, I have regrets!! It doesn't help matters that I just discovered some wonderful bohemian blogsites like:

http://frommoontomoon.blogspot.com/

or http://avintagegreenlife.blogspot.com/

I think I may have just discovered that I am a frustrated bohemian!

Embracing the inner hippie

2011-09-23T12:25:00.002-06:00

I have started wearing some of the hippie stuff as tunics. I am also happy about the return of legging with tunics. Trying to be cool.

I also love my saints and skulls bracelets.

Grandmother

2011-09-22T07:49:00.003-06:00

This is a spry photo of my grandma Martha, who I called grandma but was always referred to as Mom Cox. She had little glass wind chimes that tinkled in the hallways. In her memory, I have tried to put a chime in every tree in my yard and I have quite a few trees (and fortunately my neighbors aren't too close).

My grandma Laurie had some colorful nobby goblets that she would let us grandchildren use because even water tastes better from a "purty" glass.

What is your favorite thing from your grandmother's house?

Fffrrrost and one bad animal

2011-09-20T09:34:00.002-06:00

We had a cracking frost this morning. Fall is here!

I have been dutifully covering my tomatoe plants, trimming them, slaughtering slugs, fertilizing them, coaxing a handful of mouthwatering homegrown tomatoes....and discovered my stupid, treacherous hound has been treating my plants like a smorgasbord. Drat!! Somebody could literally wind up in a doghouse this winter!!

Aaarrr...Talk Like a Pirate Day!!!!

2011-09-18T17:38:00.004-06:00

Ahoy, matey, September 19th is "Talk Like a Pirate day". I made this painting for my younger duaghter a few years ago, and I still like it.

Go read a "Bloody Jack" novel by L. A. Meyer and get inspired. Avast.

Making a Difference

2011-09-18T07:45:00.004-06:00

I found this article on a terrifice site called "cool chicks from history". I would like to think that at least once in my life, I would have this kind of courage to stand up for justice.

http://coolchicksfromhistory.tumblr.com

Fifteen year old Elizabeth Eckford (pictured) should have been part of a group of nine students, but at the last minute the NAACP delayed the integration because they believed the governor was going to bring in the Arkansas National Guard to prevent their enrollment. Elizabeth was the only one would didn’t get the message and showed up for school that day.

Elizabeth arrived to find an angry mob and no organized protection. Grace Lorch (pictured), a 50 something white member of the NAACP, dropped her daughter off at junior high that morning and stopped by the high school to see what was going on. Grace found Elizabeth on her own and escorted her to her mother’s workplace via a city bus.

Think for a second about what it must have been like to have been either of those women. Elizabeth was only 15 years old and a historic event rested on her bravery. One of six children, her mother taught in a segregated school for blind and deaf children while her father worked nights for the railroad. Either of them could have lost their jobs over her enrollment at Central High. Their house could have been firebombed, they could have been killed. All for going to school.

Grace was a serious social justice advocate, both she and her husband had lost jobs over their activism. That day she told the crowd they would be ashamed of themselves in six months and if anyone touched her she would punch them in the nose. Grace wasn’t an armed National Guard, but she was one tough lady.

Beautiful Victoria

2011-09-17T07:36:00.005-06:00

I spent nearly a week in beautiful Victoria, BC. Always loved the legislative buildings lit up at night.

I was able to spend lots of time with my daughters. Here they are at the sundial by the breakwater.

My older daughter was caretaking a lovely home that overlooked the Gorge waterway. I spent a lot of time on this fabulous deck.

Close call: I was walking the dogs last night and heard a strange popping sound, rather like a drunk whacking a tree with a hatchet. I am suspecting it may have been a bear popping it's jaws to warn off Fiona (who returned to me with an apple in her mouth). We are darned lucky the beast didn't follow her. You can believe that I will be making a racket when I am out walking (and packing bear spray).

Back to work

2011-09-14T06:43:00.002-06:00

Reverie SOLD

I just go back from a terrific visit with the daughters in beautiful Victoria. It was hot and sunny every day, unheard of for there. It clouded over and became cool the morning I flew out, much more the Victoria I lived in!

Twins

2011-09-07T07:50:00.003-06:00

SOLD

As usual, the photo doesn't quite do justice to the richness of the background. This was a 24x24 painting. It was based on a photo of the twins who visited our pond. I was happy with its boldness and texture. And I am happy to say, it is sold.

Live and Die like this

2011-09-06T08:01:00.004-06:00

I want to become an artist like Margaret Olley (I have about 30 years to work at it). You can read about her here:

http://bytesdaily.blogspot.com/2011/07/margaret-olley.html

I like her self portraits better than the portraits painted of her!

something to look forward to

2011-09-05T07:52:00.002-06:00

hthttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYg0VgPy6Uk

I am looking forward to this movie!

100 years of fashion

2011-09-03T08:09:00.004-06:00

This is an interesting link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=7JxfgId3XTs

Channeling Dr. Hook

2011-09-02T21:00:00.001-06:00

My sister-in -law tried on my tophat. I thought she looked so cool, I had to take a photo. With a little photoshop zazzing (tha's the technical term) I think she looks terrific.

and now for something different...

2011-08-30T07:58:00.002-06:00

I went on a thrifting foray. I have been inspired by:

http://voodoonotes.blogspot.com/ and

http://advancedstyle.blogspot.com/

plus my inlaws are visiting and my sister-in-law and I are playing at making art papers, etc. Time for a break from painting!

Arts reception

2011-08-29T12:51:00.002-06:00

Two Old Roosters

2011-08-24T07:44:00.002-06:00

This painting was based on an old photo. I'm having trouble with photographing it, the painting works much better than this photo. Oh well, I'll try again when I get it home.
I'm trying to come up with a cool outfit to wear to the reception tonight.

Red and Rhonda

2011-08-23T07:43:00.002-06:00

One of the last paintings I finished for my show. I rather like the triumphant way he is holding her.You are invited to the reception this Wednesday night 7-9 pm at Pynelogs. I wish I had had time for more of the bathers series....ah well, I have my work cut out for me this winter.

Z and the end

2011-08-22T07:37:00.003-06:00

So there you have it, the whole alphabet. Phew! That ate up much more time and work than I had imagined.

Today, I am delivering work to Pynelogs Cultural Centre for my "solo" show. I don't know why they insist on calling it a solo show because it is NOT. There are 5 or 6 artists sharing the space. I think they are trying to let the public know it is not a group (like a club or painter's group) but it is not a solo show. If anyone can think of a better term, please let me know.

At last, I can take a break. I am going to start tackling the 101 other projects I have been wanting to work on but couldn't because I was painting for art shows. I need to take some photos for this winter's painting projects too.