The Little Things

Where did this come from?  Recently I was looking through some holiday images that I'd taken a few years ago and stumbled upon this shot of colorful plastic strips full of rain drops.  Initially this appears as abstract art loved most by the artist; however, there is a deeper message that invites us to consider the beauty that surrounds us in all the things we often overlook.  Upon second glance one easily recognizes the subtle yet delightfully beautiful water droplets that give so much depth and texture to the smooth, rich colors.

"The details are not the design.  They make the design."

                         --Charles Eames

Holiday Exhibit

Make plans to attend this annual opening reception that features artwork by local artists listed above.  A variety of mediums are included to offer something for everyone.  Enjoy shopping for unique holiday gifts and speaking to the artists as well as listening to music and enjoying some light refreshments.  The event is this coming Friday, December 1st, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Carnegie-Stout Public Library in downtown Dubuque, Iowa, at 360 West 11th Street.

Gratitude

"The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude."

                                                          --Friedrich Nietzsche

Circles

"Thoughts will lead you in circles.

Silence will bring you back to centre."

                                     --Rasheed Ogunlaru

A Glimpse of November

"So dull and dark are the November days.

The lazy mist high up the evening curled,

And now the morn quite hides in smoke and haze;

The place we occupy seems all the world."

                                                                 --John Clare

Without an Eraser

"Life is the art of drawing without an eraser."

                                            --John W. Gardner

Honoring Veterans

Shades of November

"November comes

And November goes,

With the last red berries 

And the first white snows,

With night coming early,

And dawn coming late,

And ice in the bucket

And frost by the gate.

The fires burn

And the kettles sing,

And earth sinks to rest

Until next spring."

                                       --Clyde Wilson

Still Pumpkin Season

Artwork by Stephanie Funke, CZT

Advice from a Pumpkin:

Be well rounded

Get plenty of sunshine

Give thanks for life's bounty

Have a thick skin

Keep growing

Be outstanding in your field

Think big

                                  --Ilan Shamir