Working the Net - A Visualization Process

Rather than getting continually flustered, frustrated and overwhelmed in my quest to learn how to effectively network and market online, I decided to visualize a new approach. A more relaxed and productive one- technically and mentally speaking. Using personal images from a past trip and 4 unsuspecting bracelets, I shall illustrate:

Stone Pathway from Chinese Garden in Portland, OR

In my effort to grow and market my work, I want to better comprehend the networking and marketing possibilities that are out there. I just don't want to feel shattered or crack-up in the process- again mentally and technically speaking.
So what steps do I take...besides patience?

Zebra Black/White 4 pc Eclectic Bangle set

I keep an mind open. Purge outdated thoughts and attitudes with more productive ones. Get more mental RAM as a result! Continue to seek, research, read, apply and utilize the vast online, and APPROPRIATE resources that are available. Allow for and enjoy the learning curve. Networking and marketing decisions are not always easy nor are they always black and white. There are factors to take in consideration. For instance, these wonderful bracelets come in an array of colors, styles and textures.

Japanese Garden in Portland, Oregon

So..with this new visualization and attitude, I see myself, online networking and online marketing start to flow and flourish, naturally. May my art and business follow. I love seeing green again.

Quote Me: Worth the Risk

"Always be willing to give up what you are for who you can be. "

Mark Twain

No sooner do I write about about risk taking and I'm tested. The instigators: a quote, a 15 minute rule, and a supplemental job opportunity.

Some background info:
Things have slowed a bit these past couple months at my steadily fluctuating paycheck job, along with art sales. I love having the flexibility that this job affords me and it helps to be surrounded by art, art curators, and interesting people. I do have some commissioned orders due in the Spring. However, this increasingly reversal trend of my income is unsettling. So I started looking and applying for additional part-time work that will still provide the flexibility to create and market my art.

A hiring opportunity presented itself last week which I was excited about until I heard my hours were all Fri-Mon PM hours. I am an AM working person and AM/PM creative. I love painting at night. Combine those hours with my already existing schedule and that would leave me with little time to create, DO EVERYTHING I need to do to grow, or even have a modicum of a social life. But it is $$-not much but it's still welcome $$.

Something just doesn't feel right. I can continue doing MORE of WHAT I am doing, which I don't want to, or REALLY REALLY RISK WHO I CAN BE, which is a seriously committed and successful artist. With a third job, I would be procrastinating my goals even further. What it really boils down to is money and playing it safe or going for it with more faith and conviction. There is ABSOLUTELY no right or wrong. Just gut and intuitive instinct.

Enter the Risk Instigators:

A small section of my "as yet to be titled" acrylic painting

Instigator #1: One of my co-workers is a fantastic jewelry artist, who like me, is reinventing her professional direction. She is weaning her artistic talent to study and pursue her new passion in urban planning as I delve more into art. We talk and share. Neither one of us is doing exactly WHAT we want full time but it works and we are grateful to have it. She is responsible for igniting the first phase of this particular risk thought process. She sent the Mark Twain quote that appears at the top of this post. Yeah Robin!!

Instigator #2 : Alyson Stanfield's Art Marketing Action newsletter/blog discussed devoting at least 15 minutes a day to stay connected to your art in some way. "If you don't, you are telling yourself and everyone in your life that making art is your lowest priority." Oh no. That is what I am saying, doing and feeling and that isn't right. To fully appreciate and put in context, please click on this link to read the wonderful blog in its entirety.

I didn't want my bluff to be called. I took the risk test. I summoned my left brain. I evaluated and re-evaluated EVERYTHING. I declined the third job. The hours of the third job made me realize HOW much I really want to create art and NEED IT. I even thanked the prospective employer for that.

The result: I feel more motivated, excited, and determined.

Balance
4"x4" Yin/Yang acrylic painting

I am BALANCED. I passed. Definitely worth the risk.

WHY Risk It

"Try to remember an artist-any artist-from more than 20 years ago who didn't take risks. The ones who didn't have all been forgotten. "

- artist Hazel Dooney on Twitter

Yes, I want to be a remembered artist. I admit it. I have my risk work cut out for me- personally, professionally, financially and artistically speaking- to positively and successfully achieve that. I know and can confidently take the WHY risk. It's the HOW, WHEN, and WHERE risks that continue to test and challenge me. They are not stopping me. They're just very uncomfortable, questionable and sometimes most inconvenient. Which is exactly Hazel Dooney's point and WHY her posted tweet got me. As her tweets tend to do quite frequently.

Asian Red Thin Bangle set

Since the new year and decade are still young ( note: I, on the other hand, can not make that claim and it's not worth taking that risk) I officially proclaim and renew my commitment to taking RISKS. I now gently place my bracelets into the proverbial ring, see how they stack up, along with ALL my other creations, possibilities and dreams, and remember WHY. Why not. Care to join me?

More Randomly Speaking

Time again for Randomly Speaking. Random collections of eclectic things I've read, heard, and seen in the present HOPE of opening up and unblocking my creativity:

Eclectic 4- Purple Passion Bangle Set

• "Creative art demands that the artist should know life, either by experience or by inspiration, and this knowledge of life must develop a profound sympathy with humanity. The technical method of expression may be whatever the ARTIST WISHES*, whatever seems the simplest process. There is not a variety of creative arts; there is IMAGINATION* and IMPULSE TO CREATE* and a variety of methods." - Giles Edgarton

• "Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed* is more important than any other one thing. " - Abraham Lincoln

• "For one who has conquered the mind*, the mind is the best of friends*. But for one who has failed to do so, his/her mind will be his/her greatest enemy." - Bhagavad-Gita

• The work of art is above all a process of creation, it is never experienced as a mere product.* - Paul Klee

• Go see the movie "Nine." See creative blocks in action except lose the cigarettes.
  

• Do a handstand*.

*My subliminal attempt to help unblock. I actually think this might be blatantly effective. I'll see. What do you think?

There is nothing Randomly Speaking about this:

We are the artists that create our own lives..

Especially with creative blockage.

Personal Artist Hero: Anne Leuck Feldhaus

In celebration of this new year, new decade and one year blog anniversary, I am excited to introduce a new blog feature: Personal Artist Heroes, highlighting artists who I have met, admired, observed at shows over the years, and/or read about that help inspire, enlighten, challenge and aspire me to persevere and excel.

In my VERY first blog entry, I mentioned meeting, listening and talking to many talented artists from around the country while participating in the 2008 One of a Kind Show Chicago. There was no sugar coating the life of an artist in their conversations. Just passion, raw honesty, candid horror and loads of inspiration. I called these artists my artist heroes. It is with pleasure that my first blog entry of 2010 shifts some attention away from the I, me, myself to highlight one of my personal and high ranking artist heroes. And I didn't have to look very far- she's local:

anne leuck feldhaus

Anne is an incredibly accomplished, talented and unselfish artist. She is a personal artist hero to me because of the" feel good" quality and cause to her work, her marketing savvy, the diversity and crossover of her product line, and the demonstrated generosity of her time and space. She is gracious sharing resources, experience and the art of gabbing.


Her art is self-described contemporary folk and urban pop art. She paints with passion, color, humor and for her pet causes - the adoption and support of animal welfare organizations and other projects. Her work has appeared on expressway billboards, neighborhood banners, t-shirts, magnets, and in art fairs, galleries, Starbucks and cornfields. She has embraced and utilizes all technology to promote her art. She plays and experiments with new mediums. Last year she recently opened her own studio/shop/gallery/in Roscoe Village. To see more (and better shots) of her studio, visit this link to her blog.

What I take away and am reminded from all of this is that this did not happen overnight. She makes it look easy. It took some years to get where she is, live her dream, grow her business and she is DOING IT! A terrific role model. Can you see why she is an artist hero?

Another chance to visit Anne's website and blog.

This is the first year anniversary of my blog. Happy 1st Blogyear! In one year, I have grown from techniphobe to blogging aficionado. I've come a long way, baby, if I do say so myself. But this is only a beginning. I hope and look forward to having a lot more to show and share in 2010.

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.