Time flies!

I didn't realize it had been so long since I wrote something here, where does the time go? All I know is that the months are moving faster than ever. Here's what I've been up to since my last posting.

On leap year day, or rather the evening hours, I went to a Mardi Gras gala. I know, Mardi Gras was long past but a group I joined celebrated it that night. Being I last lived where it all began, I donned my feather wig, handmade polymer clay mask, feather boa, and my best beads. Walking into the gathering I knew at once I was way over the top! Of course that didn't stop me from handing out beads to all until they were gone or flittering around trying to make contact with my new friends.

That mask didn't keep me from allowing a germ or two to penetrate through to my already susceptible body. The next morning I woke up with a fever and sore throat. I think that's the third time this winter that I've been sick. It seems like each time it lasts longer, runs a different course, and makes me feel that hibernation might not be a bad idea. Go Bears!

The rest of the time I have been working feverishly (no pun intended) making new jewelry for a show I hope to be accepted into in April. I should know today or tomorrow if I made it. That's another story... I applied thinking 'My first show back home, this could be a good thing.' Only to be reminded later that it is also my first grandson's birthday that weekend. So now I'm filled with grandma's remorse, I will miss the party but not the day. I've made plans to go over as soon as I am finished at the show. It won't be the same, but if I make it into the festival, I have to go. If I am going to make my living by my art the opportunity to add funds to my bank account have to be met. My loving daughter says she understands. I feel like crap! To be continued...

New Polymer Clay Masks

Once again the weather has been blastingly cold! To look outside you'd think it would be pleasant. The sun is shining and the shadows are mesmerizing. It does give one a change to get some tasks completed so I'm not complaining. I took the time to work on my website and get some new polymer clay masks that I created on it. Trying to be a jack of all trades here and manage my whole world. Everything seems to take up more time than is available in a 24 hour span.

I've been hearing from artist friends that they are jittery about upcoming festivals and shows because of the economy. A few have even resigned from their artistic endeavors and are seeking jobs. My mind is reluctant to even flirt with that idea at the moment. I still believe that those of us who create from deep within our souls will survive.

So I'll keep creating, posting, and continue to market myself to the best of my ability in hopes that those who view my interpretations of life find a treasure.

A New Perspective

I bet you think I'll be talking about art, well not this time. It's about snow. Snow, snow, and more snow. I have to admit, it has been more than I thought I'd experience my first year back home. Oh, I knew it snows here, I grew up here, remember? But sheesh! I've been watching the weather patterns for the last 10 years and really thought it was getting better... so much for thinking and global warming. It's a good thing I invested in a snow blower or I'd have an aching back!

I've decided to view it as a test, not only of my fortitude, but of my capability to work from home. So far I am doing just fine, thanks! I have made my place cozy and turned whatever space I need into my studio, two rooms so far. I've even produced a few polymer clay pieces for the Prosperous Pelican gallery in Orange Beach. Through one of the local art organizations, I'm showing five pieces of my art this month at the Mirror Images Salon here in Antioch. I've joined a few other organizations, two are artist driven, one social. The social group is so I don't go Jackson Pollack in here while I wait for the weather to break. I've promised myself to wait until spring before I paint the walls in this beige, beige, and more beige house. Yeah, I called it a house, until I change the colors, then it will be my home!

So, have you noticed? It did turn out to be about art, in a round about way. When it is who you are, what you are, it always seems to be about art in some way or another. I think I'll go prime a canvas, I'm expecting a call any day from someone in need of a portrait!

Artist thoughts on relocating

I've spent the last couple of days preparing a new brochure and business card. It is always a challenge for an artist to move from one place to another. This move brought me back home to where I first started my art career. After being away for over 20 years, living in several different states (and states of mind) it's good to be back where I was planted. That doesn't mean I'm not filled with trepidation. Any artist who has moved from one place to another knows that feeling.

Since it is winter and brrr cold only adds to my anxiety. I haven't had a chance to go around and find the pulse of the market yet. Will I find my niche? I've taken a leap of faith that I can only say 'feels right.' I've been too far from family for way too long. I'm filled with an unwavering optimism that my talent will bring me to victory. I'll keep you posted...

I recently met a very, nice, woman who suggested I start a blog to let people in my area know I've moved here. So, for this first blog, I thought I'd just say 'thank you' to her and promise that I will learn how to do more with it real soon.