Tall Tales from Kansas

he agreed it was one of my better ideas

On a day off over the holidays, Chris and I made our way over to the Nelson Atkins Museum in Kansas City. There is a special exhibit with the art of Katsushika Hokusai that closes the first part of January and I was determined to see it. Some photos from the exhibit are below, starting with "The Great Wave" which is probably his best known work. 

Some of these works are from students of his and others who emulated his style.  

I absolutely LOVE this style of art. 

Getting to see some of his "journals" or "sketchbooks" was very nice. 

After we filled our eyes with all of this, we headed up to Union Station to see the tree's and have a spot of lunch. Is there anything nicer than indulging in a late-ish lunch on a day during the week (including a cocktail), while you relish your great good fortune?

I told Chris I was going to buy a membership at the Nelson so we would make it a habit to do this more often. He agreed that it was one of my better ideas of late. 

"improvisational quilt making is not a sloppy craft"

Here is the color palette I pulled for a quilting class (Half Circles and Lines with Maria Shell) this past weekend. I did not spend a lot of time on this, just pulled from the stash with a goal of getting a variety of colors and values as well as just what might look good together. 

Gosh this was a great class. Content, pace, audio, video, moderation of comments, new information, questions answered that I did not know I had.  Improvisational quilts have always appealed to me, they seem to be pieced so intuitively and are wildly creative. A key point from Maria was this - "Improvisational Quilt Making is Not a Sloppy Craft". The thing is, there is such genius involved in the cutting, placement, and use of color that it looks like it just came together willy nilly ... until you try to make one yourself. Then you can fully appreciate the effort and order in the composition, AND the true skill of the artist.

All this said, I am having the best time playing around with individual units. Experimenting with making pieces that may or may not come together into some sort of finished object. Maria made the sewing, cutting, and fitting together look easy. She has been doing it for years. I am ok with all this practicing, figuring out how my hands do this best... like playing in an art journal. 

I hope your making is giving you this much joy. Whatever you are creating.

tell your window stylist they did an exceptional job this year

It seems to me, that midway through the holidays (though I see trees already on the curbs awaiting pickup), IS the perfect time to visit the holiday windows on Massachusetts street in downtown Lawrence. 

I want to rap on the glass of every single window and then stick my head in the door and say "tell your window stylist I think they did an exceptional job this year". Then I would go on my way, hoping they pass my message along. 

Even the barber shop windows look festive. 

If you come to Lawrence  to see for yourself, be sure you stop at Barkers on Mass and order up a Rosemary White Mocha - it comes with a torched homemade marshmallow... need I say more? 

If you can get this exact seat, by the windows up front, you can look out at the lights. If this seat is taken, may I suggest a seat closer to the back where they call out your name when your food/pastry order is ready to be picked up. I love looking at what comes out on each plate and who orders what. The other day, I spied a thick piece of toast slathered with ricotta and topped with some kind of a berry jam that looked insanely delicious. I have the same theory about holidays that I do about food. They should be enjoyed ever so slowly, savored. Not all at once, but rather with careful anticipation about when you may go and partake of them. On your own timeline, and no one else's. 

something she whipped up in her spare time

You may have noticed the jacket Ann was wearing in some of the photos from our quilting retreat.

It's just a little something she whipped up in her spare time. 

The pattern is the Tamarack Jacket and she added the hood and a pocket. 

She made it from a couple of old twin bed quilts she acquired sometime in the past. I think the way she was able to position the pattern pieces to take advantage of that wonderful zig-zag edging on the quilts is just fantastic. 

I told her that she had reached the pinnacle of excellence with this piece of sewing. It is just fantastic. I think it's wonderful to be able to conceive of an idea like this, have the combination of pattern and fabric work seamlessly, AND have it fit PERFECTLY.

Bravo Ann!

a boost to my inner maker's gas tank

One of my favorite things about Thanksgiving is that Bizarre Bazaar is the Saturday afterwards. I do so love strolling through the artists tables and looking at their creative energy manifested in something I may want to buy. 

I bought a Dolly Parton ornament from her last year. This year she had these dog/cat images that reminded me of quilts and puzzles all at the same time. 

Her pottery was just lovely. 

Liza MacKinnon's paper dresses are fanciful, detailed, imaginative. 

Nan Renbarger, my favorite sock dyer was there. Luckily for sister who was needing new ones. I always have to get a new pair for myself as well. 

The work of printmaker, Theresa Martin caught my eye this year.  

There were cool pillows and scarves on display.

Who doesn't know a new baby that needs a tie-dyed onsie? 

Below is the young woman who got my award for best patron who looks like an artist at the show.

This quilting that incorporated needle felting was wonderful. 

Here is some of what I came home with... along with a boost to my inner makers gas tank.

I simply love looking at the work of other artists and the opportunity to appreciate what they are putting out into the world. 

the creativity involved in her denim transformation pieces

October is for fall festivals with tents of artwork to stroll through, tempting aromas from food trucks in the air, kids playing in the grass, tunes from the bandstand making me hum, perfect weather conditions, it's all good. 

Chatting with the artists about their work.  

These Kansas City scenes in watercolor were lovely.

Yes, I do need another canister for something. Don't I?



I especially loved all the fiber art on display at this fair. 

I had to buy a scarf from her, because even though I have so many I have forgotten them all, she had one that will be perfect with a favorite fall sweater and jeans. I admired the creativity involved in her denim transformation pieces.  Fabulous. 

Nothing like a good festival/art in the park to spark the maker in me to get out some materials and try my hand at something. 

whatever superlative you use to describe an amazing experience...

This weekend, Ann and I ventured up to Lincoln Nebraska to check out the Red and White exhibit at the International Quilt Museum. Shut The Front Door! Holy Smokes! %$&%*! Insert whatever superlative you use to describe an amazing experience... and this is what this exhibit was like.

Apparently there are 652 quilts in the entire collection. This display contained maybe 100... which was just the perfect amount.  More than this would have overwhelmed.  As it was this allowed us to ooh and ahhh and "look at this!" about all of them.







Some of these designs we had never seen before. Not that we are quiltologists or anything... but to be surprised by the unexpected brilliance of some of these makers was mind blowing.







We really enjoyed the variety of ways in which they were displayed for viewing.  







I was struck by the fact that the makers of these quilts were mostly unable to be identified. It seems a shame that these masterpieces did not have a history of the maker (photo included) right by them. 







I hope their spirits were hovering close and they heard every single thing we said about how unbelievably amazing their art is. If you are in the area, and love quilting, you MUST see this. I think the exhibit is up until mid September. 

our previous adventures there back in the day

Last week we made our way west to the Smoky Hill River Festival in Salina Kansas. The highlight of the festival for me was finding my flower pot art made by the sister of this lovely woman. She told me that she and her sister looked alike, and since she was so nice, I thought her photo, with her sister's art, made good karmic sense. 

You will agree it looks perfect right here on my porch. 

This is some of Julie Cates other work.  All bright, creative, wonderful, imaginative. Right up my alley. 

These three... in these skirts (!) - ready to take on the festival. You just knew they were going to have a good time. 

Maybe in 40 years they will still be doing it together, like these two. 

There was art work for everyone. Paintings, photography, jewelry, garden art from recycled things, the most intricate silk embroidery - so detailed it looked like photography. 

There was art to wear and some artists brought their work to lay upon when needed. 

This boy went right for the breakable stuff.

Kids have a 6th sense about what is going to most freak out the adult responsible for them, and then they proceed to do it. 

These super lightweight cotton bandanas, neck scarves, quilts, table runners, dresses were perfect for a warm day. 

Did I say there was pottery? Really cool pottery. Below is work by Cindy Percival from Kansas City. 

There was even a fife and drum core that did a pretty good rat-a-tat-tat, but it was too hot to march behind them. 

In addition to my flower pot art I came home with a hand block printed bandana and a bird. 

On the way out of town we went to the Scheme and picked up a 1/2 baked pizza to bring home for supper. While we sipped on cool beverages, waiting for our order, we re-told stories of all our previous adventures there "back in the day". 

a resounding 2 thumbs up apiece

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is another not-to-be-missed outing in Bentonville. This rendering of it by the architect (I think), is great. I love the roughness of it and that the end result is very true to the original vision. 

Its hard to choose a favorite work of art from the collection, but I didn't know Rosie the Riveter had her foot on Mein Kampf did you? I love finding something unexpected when seeing art work you thought you knew. The frame is also a perfect complement to the painting. 

There was a series of paintings on palette's, using the "thumb hole" in creative ways. This was my favorite. 



It was too rainy and cool to take advantage of all the outside art trails and garden spaces, but we did catch a few glimpses of what awaits on our next visit.



When all the flowering trees are blooming in a few weeks, it's going to be amazing. 



The Bachman-Wilson house, a Frank Lloyd Wright design, is not to be missed. So interesting to be able to walk through it and appreciate his bringing the outdoors inside style. There is a nice audio guide to talk you through the features of the design. FYI - reservations are needed to walk through. 



This was another of my favorite paintings in the museum. The lighting on all the art work is fantastic.



This fellow below is only included in case one of you is an art expert and can tell me the significance of what appears to be rings hanging from the sash at the waist. I saw this in several portraits of men in their uniforms. 



Depending on the time of day you visit the museum, there is a nice dining area for lunch, apparently dinner too, and also a great looking coffee bar. Our lunch was perfect and the space is wonderful to sit in with expansive views to the out of door spaces that are so lovely. 

We all took a vote and gave Crystal Bridges a resounding 2 thumbs up apiece. An excellent way to spend a day. 

seen in 15 minutes or savored over 45 minutes

On a recent trip to the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City, we hit the JACKPOT! In the form of this piece by Bisa Butler, A Man's Worth.  Pam, one of the prairie makers, had turned us on to her work several months ago and I have been following her instagram account.  When I turned a corner inside the gallery and spotted this I might have made a fool of myself. It is quilted and appliquéd cotton, wool, and chiffon... and it is stunning. 

Chris and Dan, the non-sewing members in our group, agreed it was the piece on display that most appealed to them.  There is a link below to the artists website, her work is beyond description so I won’t try except to say it grabs you... and it does not let you go. 



Several other pieces that caught my attention are below, including this "Wrapped Walk Ways" in Loose Park (Kansas City) by Christo and Jeanne-Claude. I love the writing on the photograph and the overview/plan. This was done in 1978 and was up for about 2 weeks. Seamstresses were involved! 

This museum is small and so easy to wander through. The exhibits take can be seen in 15 minutes or savored over 45 minutes to an hour. Highly recommended if you are in the area. Admission is free but they require reservations to limit the number of people in the galleries. Masks also required. 

Helpful links:

Bisa Butler Information including lots more of her amazing work. 

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art website

Noah the chalk artist

The opportunity for pleasant walks in the winter can be iffy here in Kansas, where on any given day we may have rain, snow, tornadoes, ice, wind, or sunny/balmy conditions. Sometimes all in the same day. 



This walk was a good one, made even more fun because of the random chalk illustrations by Noah.  I smiled when I saw the snowflake. I LOVE it when people leave bits like this on a trail. I can't help but imagine them while they are making marks. 



The evergreens and berries were beautiful.  I read a great quote recently about the great out of doors “…nature creates form but it also destroys it, and it’s the balance between the two that suffuses nature with such peace…”.  I hadn't thought of it like this before, but it makes good sense. 

I wonder if Noah has been to all these places, or dreams about them? Perhaps he is imprinting his intentions to get there? I like closing my eyes and imagining him there, maybe he will leave an illustration of Lawrence Kansas when he visits. 





This post-walk butterscotch latte was perfect. Smooth, warm, buttery, a touch of salt… it took me back to the days when we were kids and sometimes got a piece of butterscotch candy, individually wrapped in a piece of golden cellophane.  



If you are coming to Lawrence over the holidays, and need to pick up a loaf of bread, stop in at 1900 Barker (amazing breads) and try one of these while you are there. 

While you are at it, check out the window display at Ruff House Art downtown at 729 Massachusetts. I like to give you guys ideas to put on your lists... nothing as exotic as Sydney, Mt. Everest, or Paris, but still.... 

our bench was sturdy, the shade was bliss, and the ants stayed away

Today, after reading about a new exhibit of small ceramic buildings at the Nelson/Atkins museum in Kansas City, Chris and I headed over. To see what it was all about. We started our visit with the works of the Staffordshire potteries. They were designed sit on mantles and hold small charcoal or wooden discs that were dipped in essential oils that could be burned and improve the odors of the homes. Without all the modern amenities they tended to be pretty smelly places I guess. Plus, look how pretty they are. 

Modeled after castles, cottages, and places where ghoulish crimes had occurred, they were charming. I had never before heard of them. I do love European ceramic pottery. 

Next we headed for a glimpse of Claude Monet's water lilies - this is a lovely exhibit with the light changing over the course of a 10 minute time frame in which you can sit, watch, and listen to the recorded sounds from his garden. I had no idea that he created 250 (or so) paintings of water lilies, or that some were so large (this one is about 6 1/2 feet by almost 14 feet). 

Last stop was a rural, folk, and self-taught art exhibit. I had expected to see images like the one above by Calvin Balis. What really was interesting to me though were the "works" of Jesse Howard from Fulton, MO. A self taught artist and ardent defender of the First Amendment. 

A perfect combination of work to make me love ART in all it's forms, and appreciate the ability to go see it at such a lovely place. 

We ended our visit with a trip to the sculpture garden, where we sat on a bench and split a roast beef sandwich, a bag of Cheetos, an apple, and a cold bottle of iced tea.  All while we gazed at Henry Moore's bronze Upright Motive no. 9. Our bench was sturdy, the shade was bliss, and the ants stayed away. 

The joy of simple things.  

Avesha your work is even more beautiful than I imagined it would be

Today something came for me in the mail. All the way from Scotland and the Spiral Tide Pottery studio. Introducing "waveware" cup #10.

It arrived safely, thanks to the great care and attention of the shipper. Who also happens to be the maker. 

From every angle it whispers of the sea.

I have been dreaming about this very special cup for awhile. The photo below was torn out of a magazine and pinned to my inspiration board sometime in the last year. It has remained there through several updates... just waiting for a new crop of pottery to become available from Avesha DeWolfe and her studio manager (link to her site below). 

You may think this amount of delight about a cup is completely over the top. But it is not. Not to a person who adores the perfect cup. 

And, I think you will agree that it seems made for my hands. 

From the North Sea where it was made, to the Pacific Ocean and all the beach walks there, to the plains of Kansas. May we have a long and happy time together, cup #10. Avesha your work is even more beautiful than I imagined it would be. 

Helpful links:  Spiral Tide Pottery

 

best seen in person to appreciate the intricacies of the work

There is a not-to-be-missed exhibit up at the Lawrence Public Library right now. If you are in the vicinity, you will WANT to check it out. It's a selection of dresses made from maps - all the work of Liza MacKinnon. Her web site is listed below in the links section. Here is a taste of what you are in store for...

The collection is best seen in person to appreciate the intricacies of the work. For the life of me, I can't understand how she does it without the maps tearing or ripping. I stand in awe of her creativity. 

Links: https://www.mackomics.com

my motto for every aspect of life in the coming year

I realize that it has been a solid few months since I wrote anything about COVID-19. Frankly, after dealing with it all day long, I am weary. Tired of witnessing the anger, disbelief, grief of families. Worn down by the stress I see in my team mates. Fatigued by the inability of people to take the virus seriously. Devastated by the staggering number of deaths. Realizing that no matter how hard I try, my ability to make a difference is small.

Many of you are likely feeling the same. No matter how I twist and turn and walk and write and bake and knit, I can't escape this vortex of badness. In Kansas City our numbers of hospitalized patients are higher than they have been at any point thus far in the pandemic. At my hospital we have outgrown 1 full ICU of COVID patients and have expanded into an additional ICU.  We are at risk of running out of hospital beds in the Kansas City area.

The only positive thing to report is that patients who get sick with COVID and are hospitalized, are not staying in the hospital as long as they were at the beginning of the pandemic. They also have a lower chance of dying from the disease now, than they did back in March. We have learned from ongoing studies, which medications and interventions are providing the best outcomes. Some scientists have also speculated that the amount of virus during an exposure may have been lessened by mask wearing, leading to milder cases of the disease. 

My purpose in putting this out there today is to inform and thereby help keep our community safe. It is hard to get my mind around the entire Kansas City area only having around 100 available hospital beds and 20 ICU beds - right now. This has limited our ability to accept patients in transfer from outlying community hospitals, it may well lead us back to a place of stopping elective surgeries. 

I am hopeful the transition in leadership in our country will help present a united message about how we should be conducting ourselves in a pandemic. 

I purchased a copy of the print below from Lynn Giunta (CollageGirlKC) on Etsy this month. I think her work is amazing, and I love that she is from Kansas City.

It is my motto for every aspect of life in the coming year.

Helpful links: CollageGirlKC Etsy shop.

she rode the trolley to work

You will recall my mention of the sweet potato latte a few posts back. Along with my vow to get there soon, and describe the visit. I worried that perhaps I had blown it up into something that could never taste as good as it did in my mind. 

I was wrong, wrong, wrong. It was better than my imaginings - smooth, creamy, perfectly blended, with hints of sweet potato but not cinnamon. In no way like pumpkin. That big home-made marshmallow that you see on top, slowly melting into a sea of sweet potato, espresso, and milk, that has been kissed with a hint of nutmeg and torched to give that tiny hint of smoke... oh. I left it in the cup until the latte was exactly 1/4 gone then I reached in with my fingers and scooped it into my mouth. Unapologetically, I warmed Joan to look away it was not going to be pretty. But it was wonderful.

When you go, which you must if you are in the area, enjoy the view of the landmark Western Auto sign with the turning tree in the foreground. At the Monarch location on Grand there is indoor seating - well spaced and it's not crowded, but instead go across the street to that little park and marvel at the wonder of Kansas City.  

When you are done there, zip over to the Nelson/Atkins and stroll through the sculpture garden. 

It is a treasure. Above and below is a bronze work by Judith Shea - Storage.

I told Joan she might get stuck in that sculpture, but she had tomfoolery on her mind and there was no stopping her. Interacting with art is hard to resist.

At the very top of the museum walls on the outside there is this quote by Victor Hugo.  I am not sure why I have not noticed it before. "The human soul has still greater need of the ideal than of the real.  It is by the real that we exist, it is by the ideal that we live." It speaks to the need for art in the world. 

Above is Peace on Earth by Jacques Lipchitz.

The paths for walking among the sculptures is shaded in many parts and there are benches for sitting. And reading. 

The Large Bather, by Pierre-Auguste Renoir is spectacular. Strong, capable, perfect. The meandering Walking Wall is made of stone from the flint hills and is the work of Andy Goldsworthy. No mortar was used in it's creation. 

Finally, we closed our morning with an outdoor lunch. Where we discussed when it might be safe to fly and the medical management of the Donald's COVID 19.

But the most interesting topic of conversation was that Marti Huff, in 1943, at the age of 19, worked on the 12th floor of the Western Auto building as the executive secretary to the Vice-President. She rode the trolley to work and her favorite coat may have had squirrel trim on the bottom. 

Thank you to the Huff girls, for making me an adopted sister. How else would I get to hear such stories?

a vulgarity that starts in "girly cursive" and ends with a smiley face

On a recent walk by the river, instead of going left, I decided to go right. Under the bridge, away from the corn fields, to see what was over there.  

It turns out, there's quite a lot. Including but not limited to a new view of the river from a boat ramp area.

Cool street art under the overpass of the highway. Forgive the curse words, but I found this all very creative. 

You gotta love a vulgarity that starts in "girly cursive" and ends with a smiley face. I have been trying to call to mind a picture of the artist. 

There was a new path that looked interesting and will require further investigation.

And all along the way, cool cloud formations overhead.

amazing artists in our midsts

At Decade coffee shop in Lawrence this week, a magical collection of woven textiles is on display.

They stopped me in my table-searching tracks when I spotted them.

Causing me to interrupt the conversations of all those sitting at the tables in front of them,

in order to take photographs. 

Calmly reassuring all individuals, that they of course, would not appear in any pictures. 

Every ounce of my color, texture, fiber-loving being was engaged by these works of art.

Then, when I walked over to read the artist statement, I squealed with delight because these were made by Bea Bonanno, who also happens to work at my local yarn store - The Yarn Barn of Kansas. I wanted to dance a jig and run right over to see if she was working and high 500 her! Instead I just went to her social media and expressed my deep admiration of her work. 

I should have known that inside the talented knitter brain of hers there also existed other dimensions of artistic know-how. 

If you are in the area, an in-person inspection is highly recommended. The tables at Decade are the best for sitting and writing, talking, knitting, and of course staring at the work of amazing artists in our midsts. 

Helpful links:

Bea Bonanno's website

Decade Coffee

a good time was had by all

Getting multiple opportunities to see what our local creative types are up to is one of my favorite things about December.  Last weekend was the LOLA event - a local arts collective annual holiday show in Lawrence.

From gluten free products, to garlands, glass, lotions, and soaps... there was something for everyone.

I was especially delighted to see Sally Birmingham doing blind contour drawings! There was not time for me to sit for her a few weeks back at Bazarre Bizaar. But I reeeeaaaalllly wanted to. 

I made time this week. I am sure you will agree that she captured my likeness perfectly.

I like how it coordinated with my new hand woven kitchen towel made by the woman below, who also happens to be wearing a sweater she wove. A handmade woven garment is not something you see everyday.  

Dried flower arrangements, clothing, shoes, cards, and all other manner of unique items rounded out the show.

A good time was had by all. 

before you know it my bag was full and my money was gone

My very most favorite thing about Bizarre Bazaar this year in Lawrence has got to be the artists. Seriously.

Of course there were the works of art too. In all shapes and sizes. Including the toothpick figures below and those tie-dyed scarves, which I have been meaning to add to my collection for several years now.

And what about this!?!?!?!

Or this? Brother I got you one of these hats, I am just showing you now so you can know it's coming early because of the winter snowstorm headed your way. 

But back to the artists for a second. Lawrence is full of amazing talented people.

Who are happy to smile for you. 

There was also music, flowers, scarves for dogs, and a super cute hairstyle that I was exceedingly envious of.  

I spotted glamorous friends, and one of my all time favorites - cut paper artist Angie Pickman of Rural Pearl Studio.

Her work is so lovely and imaginative. 

Before you know it my bag was full and my money was gone. Holiday shopping has begun, in the pleasantest of ways. 

to sow we must open our fists

Given my love for murals, you would think this one from right here in Lawrence Kansas would have been featured previously.  I am rectifying the situation today.

It was created in 1996 by Dave Lowenstein, on what was at the time, The Community Mercantile.

It is located at 9th and Mississippi in what is now a liquor store - Cork and Barrel.  

Apparently it was almost removed in 2001, but that process was halted when the citizens of Lawrence spoke up.   It was restored completely in 2013 by Ashley Laird.

It is beautiful, vibrant, and with such a great message.  If you drive by to see it, there is also a lovely, small community garden right next door.

Just another recommendation for when you come to visit.  

knowing full well that I need them

On the drive to Kentucky this past week, our first stop was in Fulton Missouri. Where, on a tree lined street, in a charming area, we stopped at 1canoe2 paperie.

You will find many practical, colorful, whimsical items that will make you smile.

In the immediate vicinity there were several sitings that warranted further investigation, but alas there was no time to indulge. On this trip. 

I have begun a list of other reasons to head back to Fulton in the future. It seems quite reasonable that an annual trip to restock my card drawer will be needed. At a minimum. Plus, I purposefully did not buy those Bavarian Gnome crayons. Knowing full well that I need them. For something.  

the idea of making something out of nothing

How about some paint can lid art tonight?  This is from a panel on display at the Lawrence Art's Center.  I went down to see it after reading about it in Lawrence magazine.  

This work is by Joelle Ford who has made art from many found items over the years.  

The photos in the article were nice, but I wanted to see it for myself.  

I walked all over the place and finally asked "where is that exhibit made out of paint can lids?"

Happily they were really nice and ushered me back into the private office space where this panel was hanging.  I let them know there might be plenty of other folks like me, who after getting the most recent edition of the magazine, assumed the work was on display for the public currently.  

My head is spinning with ideas after seeing this. I love the idea of making something out of nothing. Especially something as wonderful as this.  

adventures that turn into busts can suddenly right themselves

The other day when the Prairie Makers were out on an adventure, which turned into a bust, because the location where the adventure was being held was closed, we were unexpectedly introduced to a whole new form of making.

Making with big, giant, heavy, rusty, steel, and metal.

It was quirky, unexpected, and Joan was very cooperative when I screeched at her to "STOP THE CAR" so I could take pictures.  

Oh boy do I want to meet the person whose mind came up with this.

It was a garden of patterns and textures.  The like of which you don't see just anywhere.  

The moral of this story is that adventures that turn into busts can suddenly right themselves given the right perspective.  

"...art is not a mirror held up to reality..."

Current status of my inspiration board. Things I want to make, do, consider, delight in, and dream about.

From the Writers Almanac Sunday, "Art is not a mirror held up to reality but a hammer with which to shape it".  Bertolt Brecht

snowpeople of Lawrence

Today I present the Snowpeople of Lawrence.  Courtesy of all the cold weather snow sculptors, who made them for our enjoyment.  

I love their imagination and felt it only right to showcase their work!   Bravo.  

imminently more do-able than the flat banana

Dadgummit but this was fun!

I always want to do puzzles but never make time for it between all my other duties.  Until I saw this one, that is.

All the information about where it came from is included in the photo above .  In the event that you, like me, fancy yourself a puzzle maker... but know your limitations.  As in 200 pieces.  How long could that take?

Not terribly long by the way, once I finally started.  

Once I commenced, it was hard to walk by it without stopping to look for a piece to snap into place.  And of course one piece always leads to two.  

Such unusual, tiny, interesting shapes.

The search will begin this weekend for the next challenge.  Maybe 400 pieces? 

As long as the image is as colorful and interesting as this one.  That is a requirement.  

I am a big fan of Jennifer Judd-McGee's work, which is what attracted me to this in the first place.  It seemed imminently more do-able than the "flat banana" (read solid yellow) jigsaw puzzle that Chris's dad got the family to put together for Christmas in 1982.  Which by the way, never did get started if I recall correctly. 

"...books help our inside selves meet up and find our way together through life..."

These days between Christmas and New Years, when we might have the luxury of an extra day off, are meant for sitting, staring, reading, thinking.  To that end, I share with you today a most wonderful gift.  A box full of ideas to contemplate.  This was shared with me by my sister Dottie.  

I can never thank her enough for the things she shares with me.  And that she knows me well enough to know exactly what will speak to me.  Things like this selection from William Powers (included in video below).

"...in books I discovered that my inside self had a name, it was called a soul. Even more amazing, it turned out that other people had souls too.  From then on, anytime I felt lost, a stranger in the world, I would sit quietly with a book and be reminded I was not the only one.  That's why books were invented, so our souls could talk to each other.  Books help our inside selves meet up and find our way together through life.  That's why we love them so much..."

 

A Velocity of Being: Maria Popova and Guests | NYPL Author Talks from The New York Public Library on Vimeo.

If you enjoy this as much as I did, you can thank Dottie.  

this is how the best stuff happens

This morning, after turning on the tree lights, admiring our handiwork, and having a cup of coffee in front of the fire, I proceeded to make a little banner for my inspiration board.

Because I have really been wanting one.  Initially the plan was to make a pom-pom banner.  And I did, but it wasn't exactly what I wanted.  

Then I remembered this banner that Syd McCutcheon made for sister that I really liked and it gave me the idea to pull out the fabric remnants from my napkins and do something with that.  

And things started to look like they were going in the right direction.  Especially after I added some plaid wool that Heidi had sent me a while back to use in a "hooking" project.  

And then I decided some pom-poms WERE needed, just not as part of the banner.  But rather, on the side.  

And right by the photo of the wreath that gave me the idea to make pom-poms in the first place.  

Then up went the velvet acorn made by the one and only Mary Stanley. It was placed right next to the photo of the board that Diana Giffin made that gave me the idea to do my own inspiration board in the first place. 

And so from my sister to Pam Garrison, who introduced her to Syd and Mary (which is how I met them), to Heidi who gave me the wool, to Diana who gave me the idea, THIS is how the best stuff happens.  

And I gratefully thank each one of you for your influence in the latest version of my inspiration board.  Which delights me to no end.

a necklace fashioned from a shaving brush

One of my favorite events of the season was last weekend. 

Bizarre Bazaar.  The 30th anniversary actually.  The woman who designed the t-shirt was telling me how there was an artist who had chicken foot ornaments at the very first event.  Oh dear.  

Fear not.  I have NONE of those to show you.  But how about a pet tag necklace, or some smiling cat blocks, or a super cool basket made by Cheryl from Eudora.  

Pottery is always a good choice.  For some reason I never think I have enough.

If you are looking for a gift for the person who has everything, may I suggest a painted hand?

This stylish woman simply needed to have her photo taken.  

This retired librarian talked to me about her intricate ornaments and how she makes them all year long, except for a few months when she concentrates on her other artistic ventures. 

Its not often that you get to enjoy the sound of a good accordion.  It was perfect. Music makes every event better.

Who had a spinning top toy as a child?  We did!

Above is one of my favorite artists.  I have purchased pins and tie-dyed socks from her over the years.  The sculptured bowls were new this year.  

For originality how about a necklace fashioned from a shaving brush, and who doesn't need a cute pin?

Oh I could go on, but I will end with a few of my purchases

I had to draw the line somewhere.  I needed to reserve some funds for the holiday farmers market which is coming up in a few weeks.

before we begin to move into another season

Back in September I showed you all a picture of the inspiration board that Diana Giffin made that really caught my eye.  Shortly after she died this year, Chris got to work on turning the mail art frame he made for me into my very own inspiration board.

He's handy to have around for helping turn my ideas into reality. With my gentle guidance of course.  

This particular idea has me all kinds of happy.

It has been very enjoyable to cut, tear, arrange, and pin images of things I like up here on this board over the last several months.

 

Images that make me smile, things I may want to make, color combinations I like... you get the idea.  I thought I would show you what's on it right now, before we begin to move into another season and this ever-changing inspiration board transforms itself.  The only thing that will remain constant is the picture I have up there of Diana's board that first got me started on such a simple thing, that brings me such pleasure.   

chris beat me to it

Preparations for November 22nd have begun here at Thanksgiving Central. Hanging this garland over the table always signals the transition into the holiday season.  

A new kitchen towel and Pilgrim Boy are in the kitchen.  On duty.  

Pumpkins have been stacked.  Sure glad I got to enjoy my mums for about 10 days before we dipped down to 9 degrees this past week.  I am torn between leaving them out there in their frozen state versus dumping them. I will show this photo to everyone as the "before" picture.  So they can see how lovely they were.  

Bittersweet has been hung wherever there is a spot for it and sometimes where there really isn't a spot but I make one.

I've had this garland for probably 8-10 years now.  It was made by a local woman artist who no longer comes to the farmers market.  

But because I have this, and hang it year after year, I continue to treasure her unique talents.  Another example of the best kind of "making". This weekend I am polishing silver, making an apple bundt cake, planning out the appetizers, sweeping the porch, evaluating the state of my table linens to see if any holes need patching, cleaning the rungs and backs of the dining room chairs, and if there is any time left after that, I will see what kind of mischief I can get into. I was going to clean the windows, but Chris beat me to it.   

making at it's finest

Tonight I have something really special for you.  Sent to me by my sister Dottie.  She sends me the best stuff.  Click on the link below for a video about "making".  Make sure you have 14 minutes to watch.  Then watch it again.  That's what I did.  

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/13/opinion/quilts-while-i-yet-live.html

 

 

 

 

 

the good that can come out of like-minded people discovering each other

Tonight I am talking openly with you as I try to make sense of how to "cope" with a new (for me) kind of grief.  Maybe some of you have experienced it already.  If not, you will, in this new world way of communicating and forming lasting relationships on-line. 

This week I heard from my sister that one of the women that we have "met" in the blogosphere/world wide web arena had died unexpectedly.  Many of you may also "know" her.  Diana Giffin aka naturegrl64 on Instagram.  If memory serves correctly I was first drawn to her photos of the most amazing red geraniums in these incredible flower boxes on a charming home.  This was while looking at her Flickr account.

I liked her photos on Instagram - especially the ones of her kitties and Gyp.   She left comments on my blog.  We traded a few e-mails.  I think we would have enjoyed each other's company.  A lot.  She told me about places up North I might enjoy when I made it up to her neck of the woods.  When she showed photos of her art space and her journals I wanted to pull up a chair and look out on her amazing view.  

She inspired me in many ways.  It was just about a year ago that she posted this inspiration board below.  I immediately told Chris I NEEDED one of these and tasked him with figuring out how to turn my mail art frame into one.  

This week I told him we had procrastinated long enough.  I will print out this photo of her board and it will forever remain on my board.  Maybe it will help me work through this sadness.  I hope she knew how amazing I thought she was, and how much I enjoyed our on-line friendship.  I haven't "lost" a friend I had never met in person before.  But I am grieving about her death. Wondering how her husband is doing. Who will put up pictures of Maggie so we can continue to watch her grow up?  All the normal feelings.  It reinforces the power of the internet, and the good that can come out of like-minded people discovering each other.  

I will miss you floating in and out of my life Diana.  The world is diminished without your light.  

"...a mysterious figure capable of conducting transfiguration through needle and thread"

On a recent ordinary day, I discovered something extra-ordinary.  The work of Ann Luben: The Singular Spectralogical Seamstress of the West, hanging up in Decade coffee shop in Lawrence.   

From her statement presented with the work,  "...drawing from the fantastical sources of visual and narrative culture within country music and Western Americana, my work proposes a magical realist relationship between the embellished garment and the inflated identity.  Sewn charms of the Sooth Stitcher offer improbable cures to the demands of rugged isolationism through physically transformative sympathetic magic.  Artifacts of this metaphysical sewing service, including hailed hyperbolic advertisements and embroidered garment fragments, suggest a mysterious figure capable of conducting transfiguration through needle and thread."

Her stuff totally blew me away.   

It gives credence to that idea that you see the MOST interesting, informative, inspirational things when you aren't looking for them.  

I love her work, but even more the whole concept of it.  

Might I recommend the cortado for sipping on while you let your eyes roam over the exhibit?  They have excellent tables and chairs.  Bring something to write or draw with, and in.  

Helpful links:

Anne Luben 

Decade Coffee Shop

P.S.  I do not know how long the exhibit will be up. Dally at your own risk.  

a certain beeswax encaustic artist

The Smoky Hill River Festival was this weekend in Salina, Kansas.  It's the best art/music event in all of Kansas (according to Chris and I, who are festival experts), and we try to get there every year if we are not out of town.     

It's in a great park with lots of trees and plenty of shade.  

Everywhere there is someone or something interesting and amazing to look at.  

Artists give craft demonstrations, you can buy a hand carved rocker, and cute girl groups provide excellent music.  

There is something for everyone at the festival.  

This little miss left her chair unattended while she perused the racks for a one of a kind new dress.    

There was pottery for multiple uses, indoors or out, for you or your birds.  

The Miller clan was there en masse.  With matching shirts so no one would get lost.  

The festival is always held the first full weekend in June.  You might want to schedule your next trip to Kanas to coincide with it.  

When you hear the fife and drum corp as you process over the bridge into the park you will know you have arrived.  Because sister and I are headed to Germany in a week, I was very careful with my spending at the festival this year.  HOWEVER, there was a certain beeswax encaustic artist whose work really caught my eye.  I might have written down her name in case Chris wins the lottery while I am gone.  

 

the united states of carol by Louisa

 Friday, one of my colleagues came to work and handed me this. 

Original artwork from her daughter, my friend, Louisa. 

I am not sure exactly what is meant by "the united states of carol".  Maybe she has decided I should run for public office so my name will be on our currency?  There may also be plans for a sandwich named after me if I win the election (top left in photo #1).

 
Her portrayal of me gliding through the halls of the medical center, in a freshly starched lab coat, name badge visible, is spot on by the way. 

I am blown away by her talent, imagination, and creativity. 

Here she is decked out in her holiday finest.   Her first task in her new job as my campaign manager, will be to accompany me on a shopping trip.  So she can help me with my overall "look".  Which could use a bit of a brush-up.   I feel certain she is up to the task.     

filled with ideas that lead to more ideas

You all likely already know about taproot magazine, but in case you are like me, and were not familiar with "the magazine for makers, doers, and dreamers" here is your heads up. 

It was a link to an article about a "journal cowl" that made me go and check it out.  I am glad I did.  The paper is lovely to run your hands over, the artwork (photography and illustrations) so beautiful to look at.

I didn't know I needed to make a fennel broth.  Until now. 

Sister we will be making masks in July.  You will be a fox and I will be a squirrel. 

Just looking at the pictures makes me happy.  But there is also the writing.  The ideas.  Each of the issues I have looked through is filled with ideas that lead to more ideas. 

These will be savored.  Read and re-read.  As for that journal cowl that led me here in the first place?  I think it will be the perfect project for the Norwegian Steamer excursion with my sister when we are in our 70's, 

 

no directions needed

Before I head out this weekend to my annual knitting retreat, I thought I would give you one last look at Winter Art retreat #5.  Where, in addition to an amazing national park, a great breakfast spot, a farmers market, and the perfect house for an art retreat... they also happened to have this.

This cluster, or maybe vortex?, of super charged creativity that pulled  us like a magnet to investigate.  Sister met the Art Queen when she was last in Joshua Tree.  We didn't actually get to meet her on this trip.  But we met her "stuff".  And the workings of some of her pals.  I think there are pals.  Maybe it's all her.  All I can say is it was definitely all me.  As in right up my alley. 

There is nothing better than stumbling upon a cache of unrestrained, full force, in your face (but not really), joyful creativity.  Ooooooh Eeeee.  This was fun.  Don't miss it if you go.  No directions needed. 

a little metal and rust to break up all that red and green and fa la la la la stuff

If you are passing through Lawrence over the holidays, and want to see something interesting, cruise by 11th and Rhode Island streets.

Here, on the site of an old lot that used to be a Packard junkyard, you will find Nick Schmiedeler's sculpture.  It's made of found objects - many of them Packard parts.  But also some street sweeper drums, anodes from water heaters, industrial chains, pistons, gears, sprockets, and a tractor wheel thrown in for good measure. 

You better write this location down.  Because at some point in the next month you are going to need a little metal and rust to break up all that red and green and fa la la la la stuff.  Trust me on this.

to give the ideas percolating in my brain time to settle out

My post Thanksgiving activities included staring at the decorative grasses, petting Harvey, going to Bizarre Bazaar, and having a spectacular cosmo.

I love seeing the creative end products of talented artistic minds.

I am never disappointed. 

Every art form was represented.  Something for everyone. 

In addition to the things for sale, this flower power headband and pipe cleaner crown warranted photos. 

My purchases included the perfect accent piece for all holiday parties this year... and some lovely cards from a local artist. 

After arriving back home, I sat a spell.  To give the ideas percolating in my brain time to settle out and fall into the right spots.   Then, with my batteries recharged,  I washed all the glassware in the china cabinet and re-arranged it.  

 

a whole new level of carving expertise

These are some of the pumpkins I saw on display Monday night in the windows of a store in Kansas City.  All created by students at the Kansas City Art Institute.  They bring the art of pumpkin carving to a whole new level.

I remember seeing a display they did several years ago and thinking at the time how spectacular it was. 

My feelings have not changed one bit.  I wish I would have had my other camera with me.   I made do.  Note to self:  start practicing now so you can try something like this next year.    

out on the prairie in kansas

Yesterday we headed south from Lawrence on 1500 Road to a farm near Baldwin Kansas.

To the studio where Pam Carvalho of Prairie Found Studio works her magic.  She and about 10 of her artist friends are displaying their work this weekend. 

This quilt above was not for sale.  It is clearly priceless.  I was quite happy to be able to see it and will be thinking about it for a long time to come.  Such beautiful work. 

Pam is the maker of the fall/winter garland that hangs over my dining room table. 

Having the opportunity to see where artists work, and the surroundings that inspire them, is a treat. 

I came home with some treasures.  Plus a huge dose of creative energy. 

Would you get a look at that dried Okra?  In your entire life, have you ever seen anything so unexpectedly beautiful?

A perfect way to spend a few hours on a November day.  Out on the prairie in Kansas.  Pam's open house is still going on today (Sunday) if you are close.  Prairie Found Studio - 859 E. 1500 Road, Baldwin Kansas.  Hours are 10am to 4pm. 

he told me to bring my bike and he would take me on a tour

Way out in western Kansas, about 16 miles north of Interstate 70, on the Post Rock Scenic Byway, is Lucas Kansas.  Home of the Garden of Eden.  The creation of S.P. Dinsmoor, who began this endeavor at the age of 64 in 1907. 

Outsider art at it's finest.  A great example of someone who loved what they were doing and didn't try to limit himself in any way. 

For the small sum of $8.00 you can have a guided tour, or just walk around by yourself and enjoy this quirky artistic expression. 

Please don't miss viewing Mr. Dinsmoor himself who is on display in his concrete coffin behind a glass wall.  Apparently there was a crack in the glass a few years back which allowed some air in and he is decomposing.  Still, he wanted to be displayed in this manner so I chose to participate. 

Lucas is a hub of wacky artistic expression.  Beginning as soon as you get off the highway and including the worlds largest souvenir travel plate.

As well as the worlds largest collection of the worlds smallest versions of the worlds largest things.  I did not make this up. 

The very best thing about Lucas Kansas though was meeting William.  On Main street.  Where he noticed me noticing the sign in the window of Brandt's Meat Market for homemade Bologna. 

He informed me that they were open Monday through Friday, and yes, in fact the homemade bologna was ring bologna just like my friend Annette turned me on to when I was a young co-ed at Marymount College in Salina Kansas in 1979.  He also made sure to tell me that their hamburger was very good, but not as good as the beef jerky.  There is nothing I like better about going to a new place than meeting a friendly, knowledgeable, resident.  

Clearly I will have to go back on a weekday for further exploring.  I think he told me to bring my bike and he would take me on a tour of the whole town. 

a red letter week

Three important midweek activities you should know about. 

Sweaters are being knitted.

Packages arrived in the mail!  I decided I needed to have my very own piece of original art by my friend Pam Garrison.  To hang up in our house and look at every single day.   So I ordered one up.  And now I am putting it on every wall in the living/dining rooms of my house trying to figure out where I can see it the most.  Because every time I see it.  It makes me happy.  Really happy. 

I also made pumpkin bread.  Because that makes me happy too.  When I eat it. 

As you can see, so far, it's been a red letter week. 

 

we all are fine musicians we practice everyday

Tonight, for your listening pleasure, I present the first live concert of the bathing Watsons.  You saw them here first. 

 

Please note they take their craft very seriously. 

most of all, for me, it's about nice people, like the Salmons

Before I tell you about all the marvelous things we saw at the Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, I want to start this post with my FAVORITE thing about the festival this year.  Just so you will be clear and so it doesn't get lost amidst all the other stuff.  My very favorite thing was meeting Bill and Bev Salmon right as we were leaving.  When I asked if I could take their picture they were not only obliging and friendly, but Bill made sure that to tell me their last name was "...Salmon, like the canned fish". 

There was plenty of shade and spots to sit, wonderful art, great people watching, artists giving demonstrations, stuff to eat, cold things to drink... in other words, something for everyone. 

Whew!  If you are still with me thanks for your persistence.  See why I didn't want the Salmons to get lost?  The Smoky Hill River festival remains the "hands down best" of all the festivals I have ever attended.  It's the great park and big trees with lots of shade, art, music, and stuff for kids to do... but most of all, for me, it's about nice people - like the Salmons. 

even fierce carnivores can enjoy a good art fair

Happily, in addition to this being the season of farmers markets, baby geese, and spring bouquets it is also the time of year when you can usually find a good art fair going on somewhere.  With displays of colorful creativity where little girls can begin to appreciate the mysterious pull of colors and textures and unusual images.

Last weekend I saw pottery, beads, demonstrations, and sparkly hanging glass.

Art fairs are best on a sunny spring day with green grass and cool breezes.  All were delivered last weekend at Art in the Park in Lawrence.

Did I mention music and places to sit and listen? 

I also spotted transformed gourds, paintings, discarded silverware fashioned into dragonfly thingies, and a girl with a T-Rex.

Because even fierce carnivores can enjoy a good art fair.

 

Well done Mr. Haas, well done

On my day off this week I unexpectedly ran into a series of 4 giant heads.  This series, by Philip Haas, is an interpretation of Giuseppe Arcimboldo's (1526-1593) portrait series "The Four Seasons".   It pretty much stopped us in our tracks the other day. 

In the statement on display with the work, the artist says he likes to .... "recontextualize the world of classical Renaissance portraiture using the transformative elements of scale, material and dimensionality".

These are amazing to experience.  We walked around them in a state of wonder.   I love art that is unexpected and imaginative and colorful.  If it's BIG, so much the better. 

I don't know if this is a permanent installation.  I do know if you are in the KC area it's worth a trip to the Nelson Atkins museum to see.  And it's free.  And the weather has been lovely here.  And there is a whole sculpture garden full of blooming trees and shrubs you can see while you are at it. 

Well done Mr. Haas, well done.  

well worth braving the weather for

Handspun, ornaments, and cat cards were a few of the things came home with me from the 2015 Bizarre Bazaar today.  

Everyone was bundled up and smiling.  Happy the weather wasn't worse which would have totally spoiled this wonderful opportunity to see local artists displaying their pillows, soap, needle felting, tie dye, knitting, quilting, painting, drawing, pottery, and jewelry. 

I have been looking for some hand spun yarn since the knitting retreat last year and haven't been able to get my hands on any.  When I saw Rae Finch there with a few skeins I jumped quick. 

I have said this before and I will say it again.  I love seeing people who make art proudly displaying their work.  This excellent event happens every year the Saturday after Thanksgiving.  I know I will forget to tell you in advance again next year, so mark your calendars now.  It is well worth braving the weather for.