Grateful to Play

 

“Winter is on my head, but eternal spring is in my heart.”

                                                           --Victor Hugo

So, this is my wrap for 2021.  It seems like the past 12 months have been full of rogue waves splashing on our doorsteps or perhaps flooding our entire beings with ups and downs, challenges and opportunities, unrest and exhaustion, abundance and loss and on and on....whew...

 Yep, that's been my experience as well.  The loss of my mother and father-in-law along with other family members and friends has kept me reaching for the tissue box long after their passing.  The vaccines and science that are now available as we navigate the ongoing pandemic have encouraged me to trust and have faith that goodness always trumps even the darkest days.  

The quiet times have allowed me to get reacquainted with things I have always loved -- those things that soothe my soul and calm my raging thoughts. So, after seeing the featured photos, you guessed it.  I stayed close to the river (on or in it) whenever possible.  Since I was a kiddo I have always wanted a jet ski, and that's what I got.  Cruising on the water with the throttle wide open is simply fun and allows for no time to worry about anything beyond what I'm doing at that very moment. 

And then there is the waterskiing -- jumping in the cool river always brings my attention to the moment as I grab the rope, position the skis and wait for the boat to pull me up on to the glassy-smooth surface.  

And jumping on the saddle of my road bike quickly takes me anywhere I want to go -- and that's simply back to the moment where I connect with my breath, enjoy the now and everything is fine.

Lastly, several years ago I stumbled across the Zentangle© art method.  Its simplicity and repetition instantly helped me access my talents as an artist.  And in 2021 I have been sharing this with many other emerging artists as we connect via Zoom and put pen to paper.  Both on and off the canvas, these opportunities have been amazing.  And, I would be remiss if I did not include the contributions of some very inspirational "teachers" and resources, including the work of Julia Cameron and her amazingly helpful book The Artist's Way.  

With gratitude and peace, I say farewell to 2021 and hello to 2022.

Meet Milo

Introducing our neighbor Milo.  He and I are similar in that we LOVE being outdoors, birdwatching and exploring trees, shrubs and all sorts of spaces.  However, we differ in that I don't frequent the storm sewer nor spend the night sleeping under the stars nor bring home (in my mouth) tiny furry creatures.  In his spare time he loves sitting in the sun, having his chin scratched, playing hard to get with the neighbor kids and drinking from the birdbath positioned on a rock next to a blue spruce.  His crazy antics keep us laughing and looking for his return. 

And, most importantnly, he inspires me to do what I enjoy doing, regardless of how crazy it may seem to others, and then rest and repeat.  Ahhhh.  A cool cat's life.

 “One cat just leads to another.” 

                                                                         – Ernest Hemingway

Feliz Navidad

 

More VVG

"I will not live without love."

                                                                                      --Vincent Van Gogh

 

This post features more photos from the Vincent Van Gogh immersive experience.  As I previously expressed, until seeing this amazing production and reading about his life, I knew very little about him.  Almost immediately upon entering the exhibit, I found myself getting choked up and feeling like he so beautifully expressed many things I have felt in my heart but never put on paper nor uttered.  And, although it may sound strange to some, I felt like I gained another best friend in his words and work.

 "I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people."

                                                                                                                  --Vincent Van Gogh

                                                                                    

Time to Tangle

Want to try something creative but need a little help or some guided practice?  Join me and others as we put pen to paper , use easy-to-learn repetitive patterns, and have fun and laugh along the way in the supportive environment of a Zentangle© art class.  And, since these courses are virtual via Zoom, you can do so in the coming winter months in the comfort of your own home.  

Enrollment is now open for my online classes through the Evanston Art Center, and they begin the first week of January.  To ensure a spot in the class, please register by December 27.  The following links contain course details and registration information as well as the supply list.  It's simple, fun and a great gift to give yourself as well as an opportunity to connect with others from anywhere in the world.

Introduction to Zentangle© Art -- https://www.evanstonartcenter.org/school/introduction-zentangler-art-ages-16-0

Zentangle© -- Back to Basics -- https://www.evanstonartcenter.org/school/zentanglec-back-basics-black-white

"Anything is possible, one stroke at a time."

                                                                                   -- Maria Thomas

More from Door County

When considering photos for this post, I noticed I was not in the least inclined to feature cold-weather nor holiday images but rather wanted something sunny that felt like fun.   And just like that these 3 pictures seemed like the perfect match as they contain things I truly love -- water, summer, sunshine, trees, the outdoors, the Lake Michigan shoreline AND they were taken while I vacationed and rode my bike in beautiful Door County, WI.  

Enjoy the views.  Then, after basking in these glorious vistas, go have some fun and make a list of 50 things that you love ....and actually do something on the list.  It just might make your day.

 

"We lose ourselves in the things we love.  

We find ourselves there, too."

                                                                                                   --Kristin Martz

Still Loving Leaves

Christmas is just a few weeks away and cooler temperatures are now the norm; however, for me, I continue pouring through the gorgeous images of fall and love to feature more of them on my blog.  And, given that we currently have no snow, most mornings I pedal by this beautiful tree secretly hoping to spot a few of autumn's stunning colors still on its branches.  No such luck but the Halloween decorations have been replaced with copious amounts of Christmas lights, inflatables and snowmen.  Yes, the seasons change but my heart remains steadfastly in love with autumn.

Inspired by VVG

"The way to know life is to love many things."

                                                                                                           --Vincent Van Gogh

Recently I took in the Van Gogh Exhibition:  Immersive Experience.  As is visible in the photos, viewers are surrounded by the beautiful words and artistic creations of Vincent Van Gogh while also having corresponding scents and musical selections to further enhance the experience.  Honestly, I did not know much about this amazing artist except what seems widely known about his ear and mental strife.  And now, after viewing this exhibit and particularly reading his words and understanding his messages, I feel much compassion for his human experience and love the beautiful works and words that he shared with all of us.  The quotes resonate with me as an artist as well as just a human being doing my thing.    

"The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible, but they have never found

 these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore."

                                                                             --Vincent Van Gogh

Tangle From Anywhere

Want to try something creative but need a little help or some guided practice?  Join me and others as we put pen to paper , use easy-to-learn repetitive patterns, and have fun and laugh along the way in the supportive environment of a Zentangle© art class.  And, since these courses are virtual via Zoom, you can do so in the coming winter months in the comfort of your own home.  Enrollment is now open for my online classes through the Evanston Art Center, and they begin the first week of January.  To ensure a spot in the class, please register by December 27.  The following links contain course details and registration information as well as the supply list.  It's simple, fun and a great gift to give yourself.

Introduction to Zentangle© Art -- https://www.evanstonartcenter.org/school/introduction-zentangler-art-ages-16-0

Zentangle© -- Back to Basics -- https://www.evanstonartcenter.org/school/zentanglec-back-basics-black-white

"Anything is possible, one stroke at a time."

                                                                                   -- Maria Thomas

Holiday Exhibit

 

This is a wonderful setting for local artists to exhibit their work and a unique opportunity for holiday shopping with one-of-a-kind, beautifully crafted items.  A big shout out to the terrific staff at the Dubuque Carnegie-Stout Public Library for making this such a wonderful community event.  With gratitude and much excitement I look forward to the open house and tree lighting. 

Giving Thanks

"Gratitude turns what we have into enough."

                                                                                       --Aesop

Stunningly Beautiful

Recently I felt like I won millions in the lottery as I was driving on a county road and saw this amazing blaze just above the horizon.  Knowing that I could not enjoy the scenery while moving at 55 mph, I pulled onto the shoulder and sat quietly as I was mesmerized by the colors, the expansiveness of the landscape and the beauty surrounding me.  After a few minutes I realized this might be a great photo opportunity; however, I felt reluctant to do anything but just enjoy the view.  The thought of trying to capture the perfect photo really was not appealing as I sat quietly in the stillness.  So, I sat for a while longer and then made a deal between my head and my heart:  just take a few pictures, do not look at the images until later and let go of the desire to take an award-winning photo.  And, that proved to be perfect as I love this image with the stunning sunset along with so many amazing lines in the concrete, paint, gravel, rolling hills and the sky as they move the eye and create interest and balance....ahhhh...something beautiful without trying so hard.

Turkey Trot

It's that time of the year when turkeys are a topic of conversation, at least in these parts as some folks prepare traditional Thanksgiving feasts.  What a perfect time to feature one of my favorite subjects!  Regardless of one's reaction to this big bird, the textures, shapes, lines and colors give our brains lots of great places to explore.  And, with the upcoming holiday in mind, I pause to express my gratitude for capturing this unexpected image as through the years it has generated much excitement about and interest in my art.   

 

EAC Winter Expo

This Saturday, November 20, the Evanston Art Center opens its doors to the annual arts and crafts expo that features beautiful handmade art of all shapes and sizes.  These items may be home décor as well as so much more, including things to wear, holiday gifts or simply something beautiful that inspires and warms your heart. 

Fortunately, my art is in this collection, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my work with so many others.  If you are in the Evanston, Illinois area, a visit to the art center is a unique venue to explore with lots of great work to view and awesome holiday shopping options.  

Inspired

 

If you regularly follow my blog, the above image may surprise you as it seems atypical since most posts feature anything related to nature, our surroundings and my artistic creations.  Occasionally I share photos of landmarks, art exhibits and other beautiful places that I love and think would interest readers; however, this creation is rare.  So, how did this come to be?  The short answer is that recently I participated in a virtual Zentangle art seminar with co-founders Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas.  During that time we studied some of the art created by a few world-reknown artists and took inspiration from their amazing work.  This particular piece was inspired by Salvador Dali as well as my own desire to break ever so slightly yet boldly with the pattern.  Despite the blur, the latter is obvious in the bottom right quadrant.

"To live is the rarest thing in the world.  

Most people exist, that is all."

                                                                          --Oscar Wilde

Frosty Morn

Extra crunchy.  

Slippery when wet.  

Intricate.  

A masterpiece.  

Stunning.  

Unexpected.  

Often overlooked.

Frosted flakes.

Those statements describe my thoughts when I see these leaves from a spectacular and  frosty morning along the river where Jack Frost's amazing artistry was on display.  Upon first glance I could not believe my eyes -- leaves and frost -- a feast for the senses and especially for me, the artist, known tree lover and avid leaf looker....ahhhhh

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."

                                                                                     -- Albert Camus

 

Pumpkin Hangover

 

More pumpkins!  These images from the recent Reiman Gardens event provide another glimpse of what it was like to wander through the multi-acre site while it was lined with  jack o' lanterns.  Since it felt magical, I want to share and share and share the pumpkin party pictures.  

Anyway, the first two images feature another favorite installation with the top globe posing as a blossom while those descending are the leaves and stalk.  Ahhhh...very clever.  What creativity and inspiration.  Kuddos to all the volunteers who carved such amazing designs along with the dedicated staff and others who donated their weekends to help host this event.   Truly, this was something beautiful, and I am grateful for the opportunity to attend. 

"I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself than be crowded on a velvet cushion."

                                                                 --Henry David Thoreau

More Orange Globes

 

Although Halloween 2021 is now in the rearview mirror, I am still celebrating all the delightful orange globes that annually adorn our autumn landscape.  What about your place?  Are you a pumpkin aficionado?  

Anyway, in this post the first two images feature more illuminated jack o' lanterns that were skillfully carved and then placed throughout Reiman Gardens for their annual "Spirits in the Gardens" celebration.   For more information regarding that awesome event, see a couple of my recent blog posts as well as visit their website.

The third and fourth photos feature a faux pumpkin that got a lot of attention from me as I used it as a canvas and spent hours tangling.  If you are interested in doing something similar, simply grab any pumpkin, real or artificial, and a Sharpie. 

• “I'd say the first thing you need is … a pumpkin.” 
• —Cinderella

More from the Pumpkin Party

 

A few days ago I featured images from "Spirits in the Gardens," an annual event on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, Iowa.  Indeed the artistry is amazing as each jack o' lantern is hand carved and hundreds of these illuminated works of art line the multi-acre botanical gardens.  For me, attending the event was as terrific as being in the audience for a great musical act performing in an outstanding venue.  Little folks in costumes, a few with canes, some solo while others were in the company of many, most snapping selfies and posing for group photos, a few wearing shorts while the majority were in long pants and coats .... so, yes, this is a popular event that appeals to many; however, the most amazing thing was the energy and excitement that was palpable while traversing the trails throughout Reiman Gardens on this cool autumn night.   And, although there were hundreds of amazing orange globes, my favorite is the pumpkin in the photo above.  It is black with the words "Smell My" and those shoes ... ahhhh.  Something awesome.

Autumn on the River

 

Need a break from the news, social media, work, and whatever else keeps coming to mind?  Perhaps a slow drive through some tree-lined streets, a walk in a nearby park, a hike in the woods or just a few deep breaths and some of your favorite music.  For me, walking along the river soothes my soul and connects me to the universe and all living things.  It's magical yet free and easy to access.

These images are from Lake Delhi.  A few days ago it seemed that almost instantly the leaves turned from blah to beautiful.  So, of course, I went for a walk and started taking pictures....and about two hours later, after covering less than a mile, I returned to my place.  

Inhale.  Exhale.  Walk.  Look up.  Look down.  Look near.  Look far.  Look left.  Look right.  Listen to the river.  Listen to the woods.  Listen to the sky.  Repeat.

"Is this not a true autumn day?

Just the still melancholy that I love -- 

that makes life and nature harmonize."

                                                                                                               --George Eliot

Party with Pumpkins

On several occasions I have featured various art exhibitions at Reiman Gardens; however, I think this particular event is tops.  Essentially, imagine a chilly mid-October night where rows of over a thousand hand-carved jack-o'-lanterns line and light the 17-acre botanical gardens.  As you can see in these photos, pumpkins are everywhere while all ages stroll through the magically illuminated space.  Truly, it is a feast for the senses, and I am certain there is a design on one of these hundreds of pumpkins that will be your favorite.  For me, I had several top choices, and in future posts, I will share photos some of my picks.  Anyway, if this amazing event interests you, early next fall check that website for details as all tickets are sold in advance and sell quickly.  

A riddle:

?  --What do you get when you drop a pumpkin?  

Answer --Squash