Tranquility Revisited

This is the time of year when most of us reflect on the past year and assess what was good,bad or ugly. Okay, make that reflect and/or judge time. It is for me. The bonus this year is that we can throw in all 9 years and call it a decade.

As I was going through shots on my digital camera for some upcoming projects, I came across many pictures from my Portland trip this past September. I remember these!! This is good. Several shots from the Chinese Classical Garden and some from the Japanese Garden. While viewing, I found myself becoming quite calm. Partly due to memories and partly due to subject matter. I will share two of them with you. You, too, may become much calmer. A beautiful thing this time of year (reflective.) Let's get this decade over with (judgmental.)

Portland Classical Chinese Garden

One of the rockeries that is configured to appear as mountains and clouds from a distance. The inscription reads, "Ten Thousand Ravines Engulfed in Thick Clouds."

Japanese Garden

This is a giant sandbox. It really is a Zen Garden. I can't find my notes on this with all the symbolism.
Hope to when I declutter my surroundings.

It is so nice to have memories and pictures that can evoke tranquility. Let's hope 2010 will do the same.


Tranquility of another kind -two new added artistic and inspirational attractions to my blog:
If you scroll down on the right sidebar, you will discover a Jackson Pollock doodle (aka widget) and daily quotes from the Dalai Lama. For Jackson Pollock, move your curser on it and click down for more colors.

Jingle Jangle Mangle

Wishing you joy, peace, prosperity, and happiness this holiday season. A sincere and heartfelt message with some global influences. However you prefer to sing it: HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Shows and Tell

Today is a perfect day for blogging. It is gray and misty outside. I am surrounded by blue crates, unpacked bags, painted boxes,...actually I am surrounded by a cluttered mess but I want to set a mood for writing. If I keep my eyes closed, my mind open and my fingers working, we will all be fine. Where was I before I distracted myself?

Yesterday was my last holiday show for this year. It was first time I ever did back-to-back monthly shows; came to 1 each month. A mere stroll for most but phenomenal training for me. I felt so much better going into this show for many reasons. Let me count the ways:

1) the venue,

2) the participating artists,
3) my exhibiting neighbors,
4) More experience

I was surrounded by such helpful, supportive, generous, fun, and sharing artists. Much different from the loud evilness that I was next to at my last show. Was that why my sign and art kept falling? And she was there yesterday. Far away from me but I still saw and heard her- as did others. She has developed quite an unpopular reputation from what I have learned and witnessed. It makes a difference who is next to you when you don't have a physical wall separating you.

Location could have been better. Felt and looked like a cul-de-sac and I was on the bend. But what so rewarding about this particular show, personally speaking, was seeing what experience I have accumulated so far pay off. I was pleased with my display. I sold, definitely not as much as jewelry and clothing, but I sold some things. I got even more helpful hints, recommendations and suggestions for the future. My emotional reaction and responses to lags and set up/tear downs has gotten a little better. Still room for improvement. Yep, I do want more shows in my future. Now that it is over I can say that with a sadistic smile on my face.

What's next for me? More online technical tutelage and training (esp. when it comes to pix to show-already arranged), more marketing, more figuring out, and researching more shows to apply to that I can afford and hopefully get in.

I can not stress enough to try to surround yourself with supportive, inspiring and experienced show people. They are genuinely there to help, are willing to do so, and do so in a kind, constructive and motivating manner. You must be willing to ask for it. This is the life I chose and want.... experience every productive high and every productive low and all the in-betweens. Shows can and will do that to a person. Life does that too. I tell ya!!

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

THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I MEAN: I just got an email from one the my FAVORITE ARTIST friends (really a friend who happens to be an artist too) who I met at the Spring show at Architectural Artifacts last May and was at the show yesterday. I must and will share a portion of it with you. She makes and welds magnificent sculptures and all from recycled materials. She doesn't have a website otherwise I would point you in her direction - that I could do! Technically speaking, we're kinda the same. She is brilliant, hysterically and sarcastically funny, and a beautiful and supportive person inside and out. She is very dear to me, and I found her at an art show!! She kept my spirits up yesterday when I was just starting to feel them dip. Jennifer Meyer, I hope you don't mind seeing your words:

I sold FIVE of my thirty poetry sculptures, and not a single solitary big one that I now have to store alongside all of my other many, many unsold sculptures, some being pretty large. I hope my rubbing your nose in my extraordinary successes does not make you feel too bad.

Mostly I hope you took to heart the unsolicited comments from the coffee house owners who stated that the only real art in the show were the unique creations, like my boxes and your boxes. Life ebbs and flows my friend, it is the rhythm of all life, and while it may be at an ebb now, it will not stay that way because nothing ever does. Ever. Except my ability to be nice, give compliments and smart ass remarks. That is a constant. Oh yes, and me always looking like I am only 29 years old. Be at peace.

I was, and am, ecstatic about her success yesterday, today and always. That's what artists and friends do. They support, share and teach and rub things in your face. The timing of her email could not have been better!!!

THANKS JEN!!

Seek and Ye Shall Find on Twitter

"Sometimes I wonder if searching is a greater pleasure than finding what one is looking for."

Tweet from Hazel Dooney, artist

I was planning to make this a rejuvenation day and take a break from everything. Feeling physically run down and mentally drained. Those detox plans included napping, reading, no art, less or no internet time,less distractions, just good ol' ME time. I was even going to let my Monday blog entry slide. You are now reading how long those plans lasted.

Inspiration always finds a way to seep in, especially when you decide to relax, and Twitter-ly Speaking, it did this morning. I recently wrote about my experience and respecting "the process" re: art shows. Someone asked me what is the secret to staying detached and not take it personally? Being less experienced than others, I did not have a great answer except get more experience. Today I found the answer from a recent tweet from Leo Babauta, author of Zen Habits. There were 19 other question/answers. I highlighted this one since it was so timely and relevant.

2. How do you stay motivated in business when you have never done something before & the results won’t show up until down the road?
Learn to love the process, and don’t let your happiness be so dependent on the outcome. Be passionate about the actual things you do, do them because you love it, and you’ll stick with it. The great things that result will be a natural by-product.

Zen Habits

He used the word "outcome" which is where I had put my attention and how I initially, or habitually, measure(d) my success. Within 48 hours after the show, I recognized and honored "the process" and have since moved on. I have one more show this weekend at Architectural Artifacts.

I have lots of goals for 2010 to achieve and fulfill. I will heed this timely advice.
Now it is time to turn the computer off and get back to my initial plan. It is part of the process and I love it.

That's Show Biz

For those who follow or read this blog (I know I do!), you know I tend to focus on the process of things. Especially as it relates to creating and pursuing my passion.. ART. I just finished the second of three holiday shows that I signed up for before year end.

I am trying to process "the process" of doing shows-emotionally, mentally, financially, physically, creatively and observationally. I need to do shows and to promote myself to get ahead. That requires working through real and imagined obstacles. For instance, coming home from this weekend's show disappointed and allowing the tears to flow in the privacy of my apartment. You may see me sweat but you won't see me cry in public in a professional setting.

My actual show experience is limited. I probably have done seven art shows total (3 outdoor -sold my tent after 2) over the past four years. My m-o these 8 part-time years has been primarily to sell to retail stores while I worked a steady paycheck job. The only shows I did were trunk shows. That paradigm is no longer working. My retail outlets have shrunk from double digits to single digits partly due to closures.

My experience attending shows is excellent. I observe and take in a lot- the exhibitors, diversity of work, booth display and price points. Part of the reason this was not the best show for me, which is a family based show, was participants' price points, most considerably lower, lack of diversity-tons of beaded jewelry and less art ,which is good and bad, and the actual timing-Thanksgiving weekend. Will not mention the economy-oops-just did. I knew this going in to this particular show but I also knew I needed this for the experience. And I was graciously accepted. This was the culmination of me going from show spectator to show participant- emotional challenges and all.

This show was great for me in that I tinkered and experimented with my display ability.Tried to make my own fun during the lulls. One day I used a black tablecloth, the next day tried purple for "pop". I brought in a different display piece for my bracelets. I rearranged boxes. As always, I met some great artists with lots of prior show experience, and those like me. I reconnected with a few I hadn't seen in a while. It helped to interact directly with the public who attended, and there weren't many. It was interesting to observe buying habits at all booths, see who and how they looked at my work, listen and get feedback, all to a get a better feel for my audience. I got names to add to my mailing list. I met people who already own or have seen my work in stores. I would not that get personal touch if I did not do shows.

I started writing this blog Sunday night when I got home and it is now Tuesday. The tone is much different now than when I began. The process of healing and growing after creating some distance has begun. The One-of-a-Kind Show starts in two days where I will be a spectator this year. In two weeks, December 13th to be exact, I will be a participant in the Architectural Artifacts Holiday Show. With more experience and time, I hope my confidence will grow. I will try to respect where I am now. I am proud of what I have personally accomplished this year. I plan to have more to show in 2010.

It definitely is a process. And That's Show Biz .

Thanks-giving

I am taking a brief time-out from a self-induced, self-made frenzy of creating to regain some perspective. You may or not be an I Love Lucy fan (I am) but there is an episode where Lucy and Ethel are working in a chocolate candy factory on an assembly line to earn extra money. They love chocolate. I love art. At first the job seems easy, dipping and wrapping chocolate at a nice, doable pace. Their supervisor thinks they are doing a superb job and speeds up the momentum. What once appeared fun and easy becomes...well..a stressful job. And when it is your product and your business, your dream, the challenges appear greater... or FEEL greater. There is more on the assembly line: ego, emotions, money goals.

I actually do love making and creating art. The holiday season accelerates the process. It also distorts. Along with the pressure of creating comes the fear and doubt of will this work sell? Will I have enough inventory? Getting down to business, it's the financial last hoorah of the year. The pressure is on.

I am stepping back from this self-made pressure cooker (only for a few hours, then resuming production!) to get into the holiday spirit, and.............
THANK EVERYONE -artists, bloggers, Alyson Stanfield @ArtBizCoach.com,
friends, coworkers,family,and retailers who have shown and given such spectacular support, technical tutelage, inspiration, kindness, appreciation and generosity to me and my creations. You have made my decision to create a rewarding one.

HAVE A WONDERFUL AND FEAST-IVE THANKSGIVING!

:)Marilyn

If you are in Chicago this weekend, November 28 & 29, stop by the Bucktown Holiday Bazaar, Holstein Fieldhouse, 2200 N. Oakley between 11-5 both days. Save this date too: Sunday December 13-Architectural Artifacts.

Humor Me Please

I am starting? to stress out about the holiday season... especially as it relates to producing art in between my day job. I should be experienced and wise enough to say what will be will be, just do the best you can. But I am not. I am starting to panic. Left brain, please tell the right brain to hush.

I have also just returned from a small get together that one of my former yoga instructors hosted. It was there that someone shared an hysterical youtube video that I must share. Am I punchy..ah YES!! But what a wonderful antidote. We laughed so hard that all my worries seemed to dissolve, or at least, served as a most welcome distraction. Goes well with a touch of wine- white or red. I chose white.

It is these small pleasures and treasures that remind me not to take things so seriously. I would hate to lose the ability to laugh. This video may truly be a case where you had to be there to appreciate, but for me, to laugh through the stress was the best. You may or may not find this funny.

BTW, upcoming blogs will include pix of me and my new work, profiling some of my personal artist heroes, and other sources of inspiration. I am working on that behind the scenes.

Until then, humor me please.

Say What?

I am not sure which is better ....to write something when I really don't have anything to say to oblige my blog responsibility, or wait until an idea or inspiration comes along. I try to write at least once a week or the very latest, every two weeks. I am running out of time, even with the time change. I presently have no ideas and I am coming up on creative past due. I'm even stuck for a decent tweet on Twitter and that's only 140 characters! To my credit, I have been working on new painted pieces and coming up with new ideas (trying to!)for some upcoming shows. I am feeling creatively overextended.

As soon as something comes along, I guarantee it will appear in this white space. In the meantime, here is a minimum creative payment. Please accept my written apology. That's the least I could do. Right?? Write??

Random Thoughts

I could not get into my blogger account for the last couple days for some reason. Just when you really want to write, really have something to say, poof...locked out and rerouted by technology. I checked in tonight when I got home and blogger.com is back. This white space is back. Yeah!! And now I don't know what to say. Caught off guard and overdue for an entry. In previous entries, I have written in Marilyn speak: personally speaking, technically speaking, artistically speaking, twitter-ly speaking. Are you ready for a new one...?

Introducing Randomly Speaking.....

Thoughts and ideas I've collected from things I've heard and read:

• Make sure you enjoy the work you're doing before you try to make a living at it

• Are you an artist from 9-5 or an artist all the time?

• What or when is the moment you became an artist?
  

• Your spiritual life begins in the toilet bowl

• Achievement is talent plus preparation

• Let People know what you are doing:

This Friday night from 4-9, I will be selling my art at the Harvest Fall Fest with

Mimi's Organic Exchange.

• Lastly, I walked into new Tejas Yoga Studio Monday and was greeted with Uh-oh, here comes trouble... Excuse me, and for the record, it was said with a BIG smile:) I do hear that from time to time. Endearing reputation. (BTW: When and if you are ever in Chicago, you must check Tejas out-the best!!)

Does blogger.com feel the same way? Am I really trouble? That is a rhetorical question. Don't answer.

Random thoughts. Randomly speaking.

Chicago Marathon: Performance Art

It is 6:30 a.m. Sunday morning. Today is the running of the Chicago Marathon. 45,000+ runners from around the world partake in pounding the pavement. Not for employment. Rather for passion, a cause, personal challenge and individual achievement. It is a dramatic, intense, motivating event to watch and witness. This is one event I have absolutely no problem being an spectator. Unlike my previous admission about art shows, I have no feelings of envy. Just pure admiration, awe and respect. The muscle tone alone on some...omg.

A stretch of the Chicago Marathon route goes by my building and neighborhood starting @ 8:00am. I watch, support and cheer on friends I know, and those I don't, who are participating. I have for the last seven years. This year I won't able to observe much since I now work Sunday with my new job :( I will catch a little glimpse. If I can, I will take some pictures and promise to post.

If you have not seen or been to a marathon, briefly, it begins with paraplegics in wheelchairs, an emotionally moving and inspiring start, followed by The Elite class- athletes who usually finish under 3 hours, and are indeed a class unto themselves. Blink and they disappear before your very eyes. The grace, speed, intensity, focus and determination displayed is amazing and beautiful. They are not easily distracted.

Next comes timed-paced corral groups which are broken out and grouped by a runner's qualifying time. Groups of like-paced runners supporting, encouraging and motivating each other, along with the help and support of the spectators: friends, family, strangers and the media. What begins as a trickle of humanity expands into masses of people before your very eyes. All shapes, all garb, all sizes, all ages, all levels. You can easily distinguish who runs and trains professionally (did I mention incredible muscle tone?), versus those who run and train for personal achievement, personal causes, and, for all, individual accomplishment. That doesn't matter. They are doing it.

Hmmmmmmmmmm where could I possibly be going with this? Certainly not the 26 mile distance. I'm taking these 45,000 observations and qualities: respect, talent, dedication, preparation, determination, training, perseverance, focus, stamina, commitment and the courage it took and takes, to go the distance and complete a marathon and applying it my personal performance: Creating art and doing art shows. Just pacing it. Except for that run on sentence I just wrote.

Congratulations and thank you to all the Marathoners who ran!! I caught a glimpse and youtube. I was rooting for you. You inspire me. You too artists!!

Not Easy Being Green

I made a conscious and financial decision at the beginning of the year to focus on developing a greater online presence and less concentration on applying to shows. Coming off the One of a Kind Show Chicago last December taught me that while I can play and be accepted in the big leagues, I am not ready yet. I have more to learn in booth display, marketing and developing my artistic niche with less financial risk. I have made grand strides with my online presence and technology with more to go.

But that has not stopped me from going occasional GREEN as in ENVY when I attend art shows and fairs and read artist blogs. Not exactly a flattering admission but honest.

I attend a fair amount of art shows and fairs to observe booth display, attendance, see the types of work exhibited, and talk to artists. I actually planned my recent trip to Portland to coincide with the Art in the Pearl show. In August, I attended the Bucktown Art Fair and the Gold Coast Art Fair with a co-worker and we compared observations. There was some beautiful art and people seemed to be buying. It really hurt. I wanted to be a participant more than a spectator. Same was true yesterday when I browsed through the Lakeview Arts Fest after work. I can be hurt but if I don't try, don't apply, don't feel ready, should I expect to feel different? The same green feeling bubbles up sometimes when I see the number of comments some artists get on their blogs.

My envy is not paralyzing. It's actually motivating. I do have three smaller indoor shows (20-100 exhibitors) coming up in the next 3 months for the holidays. Since I became a color in this blog, must also share that I will not be doing the Local Market Show in November as previously noted. As much as I believe in the concept, I stopped by the show in September when I got back. Same turnout-Horrible. Lots of blue and red faces that wanted to make Green$$. Promptly applied to a different show, and got in. JOY!

I also have been reading The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell to help me with my process. I want to achieve The Stickiness Factor. So I'll continue to tinker, tweak and alter my presentation until my message gains more traction, and my art takes me from Red to Black. Could I become an epidemic? Or contagious?

It's not easy being green in this context but it's all good. Would anyone else like to show their colors?

Please share.

A Few Sites & Signs of Portland

Mt. Hood from Washington Park

I returned from Portland on September 10th. I am just now getting back into what I temporarily left behind- blogging.
Here are just a few of the pix I took while there.
I wanted to live the "urban" and experience nature and I did. I traveled by myself, and am pleased to report that I did not get on my nerves. Mission Accomplished.

One of many paths I shot. This lead up to the Japanese Garden. Talk about heaven.

A Few Urban Window Signs - Poignant :

There is humor in this somewhere:

The Bad Karma Newstand on street corner

I saw this quote outside a store window and thought how fitting:
My new painting/work mantra.
That is my reflection in the glass. I'm going vain on you now: I really, really dislike pix of me. I am not very photogenic which is why you have yet to see my picture posted. I promise once one passes my litmus test, I'm there. Go ahead, you can start humming You're So Vain. I can take it.

Classical Chinese Garden


A gentle reminder from the Japanese Garden:

Remembered to stop and smell in the Rose Garden

Am I moving???????????? Is Portland "IT?" I don't know- yet.
I'll continue to visit. I'll stay open to signs.

8/08/08-Positively Lovely

One day in Chicago where the power of art, creative brilliance,technology and the beauty of community came together:



I have to thank Chicago Contemporary & Urban Folk Artist Anne Leuck Feldhaus ,and one of my personal artist heroes, for posting this in a tweet and me for clicking.

Going Wayward or Just Pacific Northwest

I would love to fill this space with art, inspiration or something visually worthwhile. I apologize but this week it will simply be words. I am preoccupied with planning and fulfilling a long awaited goal: taking a REAL long overdue vacation.

I am visiting Portland Oregon this weekend for 5 days. I have never been to the Pacific Northwest. Needless to say, I am very excited, eager and ready to explore more unchartered territory. Physically; Mentally; Geographically; Personally. I don't know anyone there - yet. I have been wanting to relocate. Is Portland my "IT" city?

At the beginning of the year, I was in a real quandary whether to apply and invest in more art shows or take a vacation. After much thought and self assessment, vacation won. I'm doing a few smaller, less expensive shows instead. I feel terrific about my decision.

Going Portland. I love Words.

FOOTNOTE 9/1: However, still wayward.... and in need of a vacation. I went to check my airline confirmation online and discovered that I am scheduled to return Sept. 10 (made in June). YEAH!!! I scheduled my guesthouse reservation to check out Sept. 9. YIKES. Would cost me more to change the flight than stay an extra day. Found outI can stay at the inn for one more day made just under the wire. No room after that. Now all I have to do is tell work....

Getting Inspiration from Potato Salad

The pressure to accomplish, fulfill personal "to do's" and get in as much FUN as possible before Summer is over is on. Play. Work. Play. Work. Goals. I have a friend who forwards fun, interesting and entertaining emails to me which I enjoy. Some are better than others. This most recent one contained a video from 1944. As I watched, I was trying to figure out HOW and IF I could possibly use it and keep it relevant to my blog's purpose. It wasn't easy but I came up with something. Desperate times deserve desperate measures.

A relaxed mind is a creative mind.

I mentioned in my previous entry that a few of the participants of Local Market show were in the healing arts; we bartered our services and made light of low turnout with laughter and cucumbers. One of the services I bartered was with a massage therapist for my lower back. I seem to be harboring alot of pain there lately, most apparent when I'm in yoga class or try to touch my toes. It hurts physically, mentally and emotionally in certain asanas and picking things up.

After viewing this video (this is borderline kitsch) , I pined for being flexible again. Having goals is great, but keeping a silly mindset in the process is even better. Especially when trying to establish and achieve the challenging ones.



I will do and try anything, even bend over backwards, to reach a goal... to a point. I recognize, honor and respect some of my limitations...most of the time. Some limitations are temporary, some self-imposed and some are permanent..like I'm getting older!! Perspective and maintaining a sense of humor throughout is key.

I am excited as I plan to introduce my Fall phase for this blog: to have a picture of me up to make this more personal and show more artwork. I'm doing cartwheels just thinking about it. Soon ;)

At this time, I thought about offering a recipe for potato salad, but I think we've seen enough. Besides, it's fattening.

Enjoy a wonderful rest of your Summer.

A Healthy Side of Art

The Local Market show that I participated in this past weekend truly demonstrated the healthy side of art. Personally speaking. I will be totally honest. As the second installment of this newly introduced show, this past weekend was not well attended - at all. The weather was oppressively HOT. We were competing with other venues in the city and other extenuating circumstances. I have complete faith in this new show; believe that it will gain traction and plan to participate in November.

Rather than permanently moping, getting angry or discouraged, this show put our talents and services to the test. Since the participants were artists, wellness providers and healing services, we really needed and used our creativity and rose to the occasion. We bartered our services for art work. We walked around with cucumber slices on our foreheads to cool off and we LAUGHED. O.K. Some of us did. Some need to take themselves less seriously.

There was a brief Green Spa tutorial from Eleanor Riley who demonstrated how using natural, seasonal, fresh, edible ingredients heals the body, mind and sole/soul. She will be participating in The Local Market in September.
I highly recommend you stop by and visit her website.

Sample recipes:

Refreshing Orange Scrub:
1/2 of an Orange
4 Tablespoons Cornmeal

Squeeze orange juice and pulp into a bowl and add the cornmeal. Mix into a paste.
Apply onto freshly washed face and body. Scrub for 2-3 minutes. Rinse, tone, moisturize*.

* Suggested Moisturizers: Olive Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Almond Oil

Citrus Herb Deodorant
1/4 cup distilled witch hazel
6 drops of lavender essential oil
3 drops rosemary essential oil
3 drops lemon essential oil
3 drops lime essential oil

Yogurt-Honey Mask:
1 Tablespoon Plain Yogurt
1 Tablespoon Honey

Add ingredients together and apply to a clean, moist face. Pat this mask onto the skin for a moisturizing, penetrating, hydrating, soothing application that will also help to clear up skin problems.


Sweet Strawberry Tooth Whitener:
Crush a strawberry and use to brush teeth as you normally would. The strawberry removes stains and gently polishes teeth for a sweet, clean smile! Be sure to use a separate toothbrush for this, as it may stain the bristles.


Art is very healthy and very healing.... personally and naturally speaking.

Plugging Local Art & Inspiration

There is a healthy, new approach to shopping this weekend and you are invited!!! I am excited and proud to be participating in The Local Market, a brand new show for Chicago, produced by Mimi's Organic Exchange. Admission is FREE!!

The Local Market

Mimi’s Organic Exchange and The Leeway Room

855 West Blackhawk Street

Chicago, IL 60642 USA

773-991-3835

Think globally, enjoy locally

Transform your world

SATURDAY 8/08 12pm-7pm & SUNDAY 8/09, 12pm-6pm

The Local Market of Mimi’s Organic Exchange’s is the perfect destination for your shopping needs. See how local artisans embrace sustainable living and create hand-made, organic and repurposed products. Find something renewed.

Items for sale include essentials as well as one-of-a-kind. Our vendors have a range of products including clothing and accessories, art, jewelry, stationary and home decor. You can also meet great holistic health and wellness service providers, and enjoy performances by featured local musicians.

A prime location, the Leeway Room on Blackhawk is two blocks between the new REI Store on Halsted and Whole Foods on Kingsbury, off North Ave.

Mimi’s Organic Exchange (MOE) is a business, arts and healing network committed to socially, environmentally and spiritually sustainable products and services. A cornerstone of Mimi’s Organic Exchange is creating community through support of local micro-businesses.

"FEEL GOOD" ART. "FEEL GOOD" SHOW. "FEEL GOOD" CAUSE.

I hope to see you there!! Bring & tell your friends, coworkers, and family.


:)Marilyn

Inspiring Blogs Want to Know

I was browsing along, minding my own blog business when I decided to take a left onto Inspiration Avenue. As luck would have it, I read that there was an inspiration party scheduled for Saturday. The attendees who had already RSVP'd appeared so fun, talented, INSPIRING and interesting. So I invited myself- the nerve!!. The invitation was conditional: I had to provide 5 things that inspire me and share them. I can do that. With great pleasure, I offer my inspiration:

1. Compassion and Sensitivity

2. ARTIsTs: For their talent, creativity, marketing savvy, perseverance and willingness to help you (me) technically

3. Wisdom and Integrity

4. People who don't take themselves too seriously.

5. COLOrful bLoGGInG!

Thank you for letting me to come to the party!! I love inspiration without the perspiration. This was fun.
Inspiration can be so rewarding in so many ways. (Hint: there is a surprise/clue here.) To discover more sources of art and inspiration, please... go ahead, click once and mingle here.

Plugging "O" for Art

In the name of art, art in the home, and jealousy, I am officially plugging the August issue of O Magazine. Yes, That is O as in Oprah. There is a featured article, entitled ArtHouse, that profiles art patron Peggy Cooper Cafritz's home. She is an influential Washington arts and education activist and cofounded D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. An inspiration on so many levels. I went to Oprah's website to try to establish a link and unfortunately, the article and pictures are not mentioned. Please go to your neighborhood bookstore or newsstand to check it out.

The following quotes and concepts, albeit out of context from Peggy Cooper Cafritz, highlight and reinforce the importance and value of art. Making it. Selling it. Sharing it. Displaying it. When you see one piece or a collection in a home, it inspires and enriches.

• Art must be an integral part of society. In the absence of other things, like money and power, art has been the one thing that we can be enriched by, cling to, support, and celebrate.

• On how or where to place art in the home: No one can tell her where to put her art; she listens for that silent conversation. (I love that!-mg)

• On how she chooses her art: She is governed by her gut; what she loves, what she thinks is amusing; what she thinks is beautiful. She never buys anything because it matches something else.

When you view her collection, it is warm, fun, colorful, honest, eclectic, and brilliant. Especially in the home environment.

How do I envision my work and art in the home? My personal challenge now is to apply the same approach of how she chooses and places her art to how I create and what I make.

I read and look at a lot of interior design and art magazines for style and decorating ideas. This particular article resonated with me. I encourage you to check out the Art House in the August O issue with banner on the cover: Eat Better! Live Happier! I truly was happier after reading even if I was, and still, am jealous!

Diggin' the Buried Treasure

I am participating in Seth Apter's Buried Treasure AGAIN because 1) it was a such a phenomenal high to be part of such a wonderful project and 2) to actually meet the REAL deadline. I mistakenly missed the collaborative launch by one day; the date blocked somewhere in my brain. Perhaps from too many outside distractions. If it wasn't for the gracious email reminder from Seth, I would have missed out entirely. AHA, not this time. Through the wonders of technology or my stroke of genius, technically speaking, I am pre-dating this so that it posts on time. I refuse to have anything burst my Bubble.

As a true Gemini, I am re-posting two: Blahs, Blocks and Bubbles and What's My Function? The first offers some learned discipline and inspiration that helps my creative process and the second to re-introduce to the intended focus of my blog.

***********

Blahs, Blocks and Bubbles

Originally posted : March 3, 2009

So much for my goal of writing once a week. It has been almost a month. I had lost some of my groove, my momentum, only to have it be replaced by BLAHS and BLOCKS. UGH. I can attribute some of it to the uncertainty, insecurity, and instability of the economy, the time of year, and the PAST EIGHT YEARS. It is hard keeping my spirits up at times, not to feel angry, defeated and pessimistic. I talk to other artists, retailers and read artist blogs and I know I am by no means alone.

"Every smile is a direct achievement."

'Mazing design, acrylic paint, glitter, on business card box.

I do think it is very important to keep informed and abreast of current events. I do watch, read and listen to alot of news and political programs. My favorite and loyal watching habits include Countdown with Keith Olbermann
and The Rachel Maddow Show on msnbc. By doing so many, I recognize it does become a distraction.

Enter The Bubble. I am not encouraging anyone to live in a vacuum, but there are benefits to living in a protective bubble if you create it right. It can insulate, filter and cushion the self-defeating emotions. It can, and should, keep you on your chosen path, offering inspiration and focus.

I live in an even more controlled bubble since my hours at work were cut and retail sales are down. Even less disposable income than before. I digress for a moment. Ever feel like you're living in a leaky boat? Once you got one leak under control and you're still afloat , you've taken necessary precautions, and then another leak shows up?

Anyway, in my bubble, I attend art venues and exhibits. I recently saw the Edvard Munch exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago. His Scream was my scream. Cathartic. I attend world, jazz and classical concerts by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra since I work nearby and attend for free. I paint, read, and watch shows like a bio of the choreographer Jerome Robbins on American Masters on PBS. In my isolation bubble I also try to come up with new ideas of things to paint, recycle, repaint; find a new job. I have registered at etsy and Facebook and am getting that up and running soon. I also find additional outlets for my work or they find me.

My new favorite book is The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp. The following are just a few resonated thoughts about bubbles quoted from her book:

"When I look back on my best work, it was inevitably created in what I call THE BUBBLE..... Being in the bubble does not have to mean exiling yourself from people and the world. It is more a state of mind, a willingness to subtract anything that disconnects you from your work. It doesn't have to be antisocial.

So for now, I am going to work and live in The Bubble to get me through this and continue to create in and think outside the box.

"When creativity has become your habit; when you've learned to manage time, resources, expectations, and the demands of others; when you understand the value and place of validation, continuity, and purity of purpose- then you're on the way to an artist's ultimate goal: the achievement of mastery."

Twyla Tharp

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What's My Function?
originally posted: Janurary 2009

Creating a blog, like any work of art, is an expression of who you are. I have given a lot of thought as to how I want to fill this white space. Like my work, I want it to be eclectic, inspirational, flexible, and have a function. I also want it to be interesting, fun and effective; used as another vehicle to promote and market my work and others.

When I looked up the definition of function, I found the two definitions that helped clarify my blog objective: 1a: an activity proper to a person or institution and 2a: a social gathering, esp. a large, formal, or important one.

So that is what this blog will be. I made a promise to myself that I would make a blog entry once a week, for now. I also made a promise to you, and myself, technically speaking, that I would incorporate art, visuals, links, and my logo. I promise that will happen and I will continue learning.

See you next week.

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THANK YOU SETH FOR A SECOND OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN A VERY REWARDING AND ENLIGHTENING PROJECT. AND TO ALL THE AMAZING ARTISTS AND BLOGS WHO ARE NEW OR PARTICIPATING AGAIN, THANK YOU FOR SOOO MUCH INSPIRATION AND FOR SHARING YOUR TALENT. I AM ENJOYING EVERY LAST TREASURE. :)Marilyn

THERE IS MORE BURIED TREASURE, NOW GO FIND IT:

Treasure Found in Buried Treasure

My Rainbow

Your rainbow is shaded violet.

Visualize a spectrum of colors here

(technically speaking, graphic didn't copy)

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

Take the Rainbow test yourself

I just received a comment from an art blogger, who like me is relatively new to blogging, and who also participated in Seth Apter's collaborative art blogger project, Buried Treasure. I visited the commenter's blog to discover a little more about this artist and her blog. What a fun treasure to find!!! I want you to find her too so I will provide a clue: priti.lisa.

In the guise of personal growth and self-awareness, I am an admitted target and gullible for the Color of My Rainbow test. Back in my 20's I used to go to psychic parties with friends from college and usually believed what was told...for the most part. I have matured and rely on my intuition now.

I think my rainbow results are accurate. Who am I to quarrel with technology? At least in this case. I personally added the violet color to the text.

The artist blogs that I have read, all the new art and artists I have been exposed to, as a result of the Buried Treasure project, along with some personal research, have been extraordinary, inspiring and empowering.

Needless to say, I am very pleased with my trove. I am excited that I am violet, having just received further validation to stay on the artist path. If it would only now show me to the pot of gold
.....personally and financially speaking. :)

Calling all psychics. Kidding.

Comment to Lisa: Thank you!!

Past Present Full Circle

You can usually find hidden treasures should you take the time to look. I am participating in Seth Apter's BURIED TREASURE online collaborative project that invites art bloggers to revisit a post from their past. Being relatively new to blogging (January 2009), I chose to re-post two:
PAST, PRESENT, FULL CIRCLE AND NO ARTIST LEFT BEHIND ACT..., which was my very first entry. I have come a long way technically, artistically and personally speaking.

I INVITE YOU TO CLICK ON THE LINK AT THE BOTTOM TO FIND PARTICIPATING ARTISTS WHO ALSO CHOSE TO SHARE THEIR ART, THEIR WORDS AND THEIR GROWTH. IT IS A TRUE TREASURE.

Past, Present, Full Circle was originally posted: May 2009


Sheesham wood reversible bangle set, acrylic, texture paint, non-toxic polyurethane gloss varnish

Transitions at any stage of life can be stressful, challenging, exciting and welcome. The "ol' out with the old in the with new" syndrome. The rewards usually result in personal and professional growth. Many of those rewards have yet to reveal themselves. There's only so little I can control!

I am presently in the process of phasing out one place of employment for another, with much overlapping and crossover between the two until June 6th. That is when I leave the "old" for good. My art has taken a temporary backseat :( . One location is ALL new, alive, and exciting while the other is seeing a rapid decline. This scenerio is not new to me. My past experience has prepared me well to recognize warning signs. I am SO incredibly grateful that the new position came when and WHERE it did.

I have observed and learned so much about myself and the collective of seeing the new restaurant, Terzo Piano in the new Modern Wing at the Art Institute, take form and shape since opening 10 days ago to the public. I am applying those observations and knowledge to grow my own business. Some things I already knew and other concepts I humbly needed to be reminded:

• Remain flexible because some of the initial systems and ideas may not work
  
• It does take a village; don't be afraid to learn, delegate or ask for assistance
  
• You can please most of the people most of time and please some of the people some of the time, you can't please everyone
• Like an errant brush stroke, there are just some things you can't control
• Continue to work and push toward your goal especially when you are utterly EXHAUSTED
• I am not perfect
• Pace myself and do not bite off more than I can realistically handle
• There are always solutions
• ALL in due time
  

It has been surprising and fun to see friends and relatives who I haven't seen since childhood, former employers, and acquaintances from my past enter my new "present". It is also exciting to meet new people and make new connections.

I have come full circle with my past and present. I look forward to future creations.

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Wednesday, January 14, 2009

The No Artist Left Behind Act

Technically Speaking......

I started 2009 with a goal and a Blast Off. Actually, many goals but one that really needs to be met...SOON! TECHNICALLY SPEAKING @#*!?#, I am not good. And because of that, my lack of skill and knowledge is impeding the growth of my online presence. It was no truer that a few minutes ago. I accidentally deleted my first blog entry going through and deleting the drafts. Scream.

The title, To be a Functional Artist ...and the decision whether to continue was about my coming off the 2008 One of a Kind Show Chicago. This was my second year doing a show of this magnitude and quality. I had been an Emerging Artist in 2007. I was wiped out from the show on every level but what better time to write when the emotions are raw. I was really questioning and doubting whether I wanted to, or could, continue creating functional art and do everything it takes to make it grow. How bad do I really want this? With the looming recession and not making my all my expenses this time, I was disappointed and somewhat discouraged. Breathe.

The artist lifestyle is HARD work, long hours, lots of sacrifice, not much money- at least in the beginning. But it can be fun, rewarding and very fulfilling. I spoke of the beautiful, passionate, and talented artists I had met (my new heroes); the overwhelming respect, awe and inspiration I felt being surrounded by them and by the incredible art they produced. I listened and spoke to artists who could not pay their bills, had their utilities turned off, had not sold anything the entire show. They offered words of encouragement, and insight with regard to booth layout and design, respecting the process, that it takes time to really grow. Anyway, it was really good and it ended with an astounding YES!! I will continue to paint, create, grow, learn and market my art. The riches I took away were not in my checking account this year, but instead with the people, the experience and artists I met.

Now that you are caught up and I'm not crying anymore, I will begin No Artist Left Behind... technically speaking. Because technically speaking, no artist or any business can afford to not understand, be up to date, literate, skillful, and technically adept in this day and age. It is necessary and I do not want to be left behind. That is one of my goals for 2009- to have greater vision, motivation, organization, and promotion, remove blocks and have confidence to grow my art. Grow from part time to full time.

So how am going to do this? Well, first, I signed up for Alyson Stanfield's Blast Off online class at artbizcoach.com. Technically speaking, I would create a direct link to her site but don't want to take any chances...The course assignments are all online, provides you with online insight and marketing tools and venues, you post comments and are accountable. Technically speaking, how perfect is that? I am in Day 6 of the course and so far so great.

I am a little embarrassed about what happened. But just think, pretty soon, in the not too distant future, you will see beautiful and fun pictures of my work and others, links to other people's websites (ARTISTS! and retailers) and maybe a few technically speaking #@@?!$. O.K. I am going to post this. Who's laughing know?
Please let it be me.
Thanks for reading!

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FIND MORE BURIED TREASURES AT
http://www.thealteredpage.blogspot.com/2009/07/treasure-chest.html

Twitter-ly Speaking

Do not go where the path may lead;
go instead where there is no path
and leave a trail.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

I signed up several days ago to begin yet another new relationship with technology. This time it is with Twitter. A challenge, not in technology, but with content and intention. I read tweets and think, REALLY? Growing up, I was taught to believe, and/or strive, to be a leader (your own person) rather than a follower. With Twitter, I really need to follow to lead. I realize, much like brussel sprouts, if you keep on eating, or in this case tweeting, you'll grow to love it, IF you have the right seasoning. I hopefully can achieve both.

I have truly embraced the blog, a website, and have the rudiments of Facebook and Etsy (have more to do on both.) I truly understand and read about the necessity and value of all. I will do it, follow it, and like it. So, I hope you will follow me. I promise to grow my following list. I will try to make my tweets news worthy,fun and interesting. My tweets also appear on my blog.

Twitter-ly speaking, one tweet, two tweet, three tweet,....MORE!

P.S. From most recent tweet: I woke up to a REALLY BAD HEADACHE from the fruits of the earth, but I will not tweet or even blog about that. REALLY!!