April in Texas

As promised here are a few of the things blooming in our yard. Petunias peaking out, Iris almost gone and a long view of two of the antique roses. More pics to come since blogger and I seem to always be at war.

The Creativity Demand Class Ready to Go

At the end of April at the Out of Heart and Hand Retreat, I am teaching for the first time a class that was developed from my Creativity on Demand dvd. I am so excited about this new class and hope it inspires the students as well. Yesterday I shipped jars of paint, a journal for each of the students as my gift, my newest sketch book and lots of other fun stuff. We won't be working with fabric but instead learning how to develop ideas into solid compositions and designs.

Our first day will be to start the journal/sketchbook. One the first page they will be required to write three entries: their objectives, goals, desires as an artist; subject matter that fascinates them; and finally, the road blocks/fears that they encounter on their journey.

From there we go to some simple exercises....mostly play. Sorry no cute wardrobe here...I am taking what I call my tasteful at home studio clothes....and possibly one or two nice things for dinner. Does this preclude the wearing of cute shoes? What a horrible thought?

Even though I still love teaching as much as I love making art, I think I am going to take a small sabbatical in 2008 and spend more time in the studio. Of course, as I look at my 2008 calendar, I realize that I may already be in trouble but somehow I will work this out. So as promised in my earlier whining post, here are the decisions I have made. As of June 1st, I am raising my workshop fee and requiring at least two day classes. With the type of material I am currently teaching one day just isn't enough. I am pushing the students like mad just to get through everything which gives them very little time to actually see something come to fruition. This decision will probably keep me from some jobs but at present it feels like the right thing.

There is a great exchange of energy between teacher and student that can feed the fire of creativity. However, when you are traveling so much that you have no outlet for that energy a blockage occurs. I should speak only for myself....but I need time to develop where I want to go next and that can only be done in the studio. I know many of you don't travel and teach but are swamped with other commitments. Do you feel this same need? Or is this just another one of my obsessive compulsive manifestations?

Tomorrow I promise pictures of our roses. Sweet Ronnie grows antique roses and they are really putting on a show right now. Off to contemplate my plight...

Me and My Camera

Okay, I admit on occasion I do a really stupid thing but this year has been filled with, ahem, dumbness. Somewhere on the road I lost the cradle for my Sony Cybershot. It was only 5.1 megapixels but I loved it. Had tons of pictures on it but no way to re-charge since it charged and downloaded in the cradle. Alas, woe is me! What a perfect opportunity to buy a new camera.....a brand new Cybershot with 8 megapixels. Why read the instructions when you had the same camera before. Au contraire! Last night I was downloading pictures to make this pitiful blog a little more colorful and dang it, if I didn't wipe the card clean before downloading. A simple slip of the finger and entire class at Asilomar is gone. A moment of infinite wisdom on my part.

My other really big loss is all the discs for my programs. When we had to reformat my hard drive, I was prepared to spend a day re-installing everything. Are they anywhere in this house....no. I have looked where there were supposed to be and even where they aren't....missing. I have no idea what anyone would want with them or how they got out of the house.

Last night while cruising for replacements, I realized I cannot find the Photoshop Creative Suite I had for less than an arm and a leg and Creative Suite 3 is out which is even worse. Yikes! Nothing to do but bite the bullet but ouch this is painful. Naturally I have no idea how to operate CS3 so not only will I be out the big bucks but then have to suffer through the learning curve.
Aren't I pathetic?

The good news is I have managed to put my hand on all my sketch books and journals. Whew! Talk about a trip down memory lane. You should try it on occasion....and surprise, surprise there are some decent possibilities for new quilts. I wouldn't execute them in quite the same way but with a few minor changes they would be me now. Of course just what I need more quilt tops that need to be quilted. Guess they will just have to be put in the long line things to do when I have more time off.

Now for something completely different: youngest son Thomas is graduating from Baylor Law School on 28 April. Whoopee! He is an amazing guy...went to Florida State on a full academic scholarship, graduated in three years with two degrees, Political Science and History, summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, captain of the College Bowl team...went directly from there to Baylor Law where he was on of 60 accepted out of 6000 applicants. Did his internship with the Texas State Attorney General in the civil rights department....his aging hippy mom had to love this. Law school has been a definite eye opener for him.....he has actually had to work to get through not just gloat down the lazy river and still get all A's. He has decided to go into public service so he has to pass the bar before he can get a job....some rule in Texas. First exam is in July so send good thoughts.

Graduation is at 10 a.m. and Waco is only 2 hours away so we are driving down early in the morning and then driving back with my suitcase in the trunk so sweet Ronnie can drop me at the airport to fly the wild blue yonder to Cambria, California for Sandy Turner's Out of Heart and Hand Retreat. Wish me luck...I have developed a new class from my Creativity on Demand dvd. No fabric involved more art 101.....hoping not to have a riot in the class from fabric withdrawal.

Now that I have found through trial and error how to download, there should be some pictures of springtime in Texas and other sundry minutiae coming.

My Poor Neglected Blog

As usual I have fallen off the wagon again on posting but I do have an excuse...also as usual. I have been on the road non-stop teaching, developing the latest dvd and working on the magazine. Amid all this my sweet computer had to be wiped clean and completely re-formatted...always an exciting experience and last but not least, there was so little, and yet so much, happening that I didn't feel like narrating what I ate or how many planes I was on.

Finally, guilt overcame me along with a nice block of free time so whoo hoo! I am back. My schedule is still monsterous until August but I do promise to try and be better. On with the news: I have lost my fabulously talented editor, long story, and am now having to learn how to edit my own dvd's. Sure do hope I am smart enough to master this skill but y'all know, I am stubborn enough to keep on or go down in flames.

The second news report is regarding the magazine. Between discussions with my students and other teachers, I have received nothing but great feedback....and then, of course, all the encouragement from my faithful readers. I did some one on one market research regarding the title and the winner is: Jeannie with her submission Behind the Seams. Everyone loved it and so do I: congratulations to Jeannie. When you have a second or two drop me an email, so I can put you into the data base for your free dvd zines.......and thanks for a great title. FYI, we already have lined up Sue Benner, Jane Sassaman, Judy Dales, Jan Krentz and the ladies of Asilomar for either interviews or featured artist segments. Any and all suggestion regarding subjects of interest to you are welcome. This dvd zine is for you so I look forward to your suggestions.

Now onto the work: many thanks to all of you who posted in on my "Art Thang" post. I do have a lot on my plate at the moment...to the point where I became a zombie just washing, packing and going back to the airport. As is my usual bent, I have pondered this dilemma and have taken all your comments to heart. I do still love teaching so there are a couple of options: Raise my fees, require more days teaching, or stop doing so many guild gigs....or all of the above. I gave myself a deadline of June 1 to have this resolved so I will keep you posted.

Most of my being overwhelmed came from simple daily life that we all experience. However, the last two years have been a trial by blast furnace. As many of you know two of my darling grandkidlets were born at 25 weeks gestation and were in NICU until their due date. They are two now and doing spectacular....fraternal twins but look very much alike and are cute as bugs in rugs. Throughout this our son Chris was in Iraq for a year....I would rather have gone through all his teenage years again....but now he is home, safe and finally better after recovering from PTSD with the help of a VA program. He is blessed with a loving wife who has stood by his side through all this and is now working for Toyota in a great job. His return from the war zone was bittersweet because we were saying good-bye to my beloved mother-in-law who died two years ago in March. Finally, sweet Ronnie retired in September of last year....a new person continually in my space but we are finally adjusting. Is it any wonder that I felt like Dorothy in the tornado?

Artist have enough personal reflection to deal with but these added events kinda get you out of sync. I am not special; these events happen to millions of people every day. I think that it was they all happened in such a short span of time that overwhelmed me. Priorities change, adjustments must be made and finally you gotta stop beating yourself over the head about what you aren't doing and try to enjoy what you are doing.

I miss blogging and all of you....so I have resolved to get back into the swing....for yet another time.

Random Thoughts on this Whole Art Thang

After whining in my last post, I spent the day with an amazing group of women....full of energy...eager to experiment and just darn funny, warm and open. Mea culpea....what do I have to complain about, I am living my dream....being my own boss and making art. So shut my mouth, I made a list of pro and cons because I guess I constantly need to remind myself to "Be Here Now."
Here goes:
1. Admit you aren't working because you are still working out where this transition is leading.

2. You aren't lazy....you are exhausted....I love the teaching but the traveling is hell. Solution: come up with a plan to correct this problem. At a round table discussion with the incredible women who run Quilting Adventures, I gleaned some workable ideas that I will announce within the week.

3. I have touched on this before but I am no longer focused on working for exhibitions. I just can't follow all the rules and at this point in my career, I am driven to work but don't feel the need to build a career. I already have paid my dues and was glad to do so. That does not mean I am going to rest on fictious laurels but instead push to explore new worlds.

4. Disconnect more from the world at large and get back to the internal core where all creativity resides. Take my own advice that creatively time is the only thing we can't replace.

5. As much as I love books about art and creativity, stop reading for awhile. Incorporate some of the ideas....throw out the ones that don't work for me..but be brave and fly on the trapeze without a net.

6. Lock the door, turn off the phone, layer up all the new pieces and get to work. If necessary become an art recluse until I push through all the sludge that I feel I am stuck in.

7. Every day that I am home do something, anything even if it is only for a hour.....before you know it something will get finished. Carve out that piece of time at the expense of all other events in daily life.

Driving home tomorrow will give me plenty of time to plant these seeds in my pea brain and to work on the new teaching schedule concept. Nothing like being alone in a car with some great cd's to change the direction of your life. Be back in a day or so with the results.

Studio Blues

Not only is my poor blog suffering from lack of postings but my studio is even sadder from lack of visitations. How do you manage to travel and teach and still get all that new work done that is in your sketch book, already in progress or still floating around in your head? The eternal dilemna of my life.
I keep reading all the pundits that tell me to get better organized. Phooey. I am organized to the hilt. Everthing in both the studio and office is acessible and as organized as I plan on ever being. If I can put my hands on what I need I consider that organized.
The other pundits tell me this is a plateau because I am making a transition in my work and that soon the plateau will begin to rise to the next level. Okay, I am patiently waiting for that one.....but shouldn't I still be producing some finished work?
Woe is me....I see a full blow pity party on the horizon. To be honest, I think I am just being lazy. There I said it. Since sweet Ronnie retired, I awaken to him being in the house (something I am adjusting to), I do my daily ablutions and then join him on the sofa and that is as far as I get. Business such as emails and shipping dvd's gets taken care of but then I go back to the sofa. I am enjoying his company but this has to stop.
Of course, not being home does keep me out of the studio. My spring travel schedule is way over the top but summer is better. I will just have to get my fix through watching all of your creative endeavors and drool with envy. Just for grins I will try to post pictures of everything that I have in progress so you won' think I am a total slug.....maybe it will inspire me to get off the sofa.
Enough of the maudlin drivel, off to teach Borrowed Tools to the great ladies in Kerrville, Texas.....Hill Country, one of the most beautiful parts of my home state.

IndieArts DVD Zine

Yes, Indie Arts was my inspiration for the art quilt dvd zine. However, IndieArts covers all media from fine arts, collage, calligraphy and more. Our focus will be solely on original design, art quilts, exhibitions, an occasional new product, the gallery situation for textiles, SAQA, etc.

Just in case, I did not make this clear, this is not an on-line magazine that you can download. The file would be huge and with a normal burner probably take more than an hour. This is a tangible dvd that you will be able to play on anything that plays dvd's. I don't want you to be stuck in front of your computer unless that is the way you prefer to view dvd's. I want you sitting comfortably on the sofa watching what is basically a documentary film. Hope that clarifies some of the questions.

IndieArts is a fabulous zine and hope you will all take time to get at least one copy. My compliments to the vision and execution of the publication.
Now I promise to shut up about this and get to work. Still waiting for those title ideas.

Name That Magazine Contest

Since this new venture of mine is devoted to you, I have decided to accept submission for the title from those who would be reading it. The winner will receive a complimentary year's subscription.
Get those thinking caps on and let me know what would appeal to you.
Naturally I have been doing some thinking as well.. so we might come up with a combination. Nonetheless, whoever comes up with the most interesting title whether we put a preposition or article or add a word, will still be the winner.
Hoping my comments or mailbox is full of ideas.

Off to the Races

Thank you all for your positive responses to my new hair-brained idea....great questions and more than enough positive energy to make me think this might just be possible. Just to let you know I called Kim DeCoste at Quilts, Inc. and asked to do a School House session on how to market dvd's in quilt shops and to launch the new dvd zine.......so I guess I am committed.
After crunching the numbers and considering the production involved, since this would not be like an instructional dvd....much shorter and a lot less work for me, I have arrived at this cost. Again, all comments are welcome. If you just buy individual issues, they would be $12.95; if after viewing a few you thought they were worthwhile and year's subscription (quarterly issues) would be $24.95. Whadda ya think?
Oh yeah, I meant to answer the question about being paid for interviews. I cannot tell you how many magazines have interviewed me in the past years. You do not get paid for interviews....it's free publicity. However, you do get paid for doing articles and a pittance for using your images in said article. In fact, I was interviewed in Australia where they took pictures of me with my quilts and no $ were mentioned. Now since I am home another magazine writer who was at my opening ceremony lecture wants to interview me via email. Again no $ involved. So I guess the rule of thumb is if you do the work you get paid; if we do the work, you get free pr. Remember the only bad publicity is no publicity.
Now to get a title, to get the first issue selections going and ready to launch by November for quilt market and festival.....and of course, son Craig to design a page for the website. Call me crazy, huh? However, if this works it could be just what our market needs filling that void of make it and take it or totally pattern filled print magazines.
In my spare time, I am working on my entry for Houston. I have either hit my second wind or just gone over the cliff.
Please send any ideas of who or what you would like to see in the dvd zine. You are free to email me off line if you don't want to post in the comments.
BTW, Ronnie has that gleam in his eye like here she goes again.....sigh...that's what he gets for retiring. If he was still working I would be doing this and he wouldn't know until the first issue was already burned.

Some Basic Format Answers on the dvd zine

First, I see this as totally different from Quilting Arts, in that there would be minimal focus on how-to's. The basic format would include a featured artist, interviews with artist in their studio or in a teaching environment, an occasional article on some pertinent issue such as copyright etc.

Just off the top of my head: an interview with Loni Rossi or Jane Sassaman on how they turned their art into a fabric line.
A review and video of major shows like art Quilts at the Sedgwick
Interviews with both teachers and students at Art Quilt Tahoe or QSDS
Slide show of recent work from you with artist statements
A visit to Claire Fenton on her work after Katrina

Certainly submissions would be welcome from any artist for consideration.

An on-site view of Houston and Paducah with interviews of the winners or just constants.
New product interviews with the makers.

How's it sounding so far? Again any suggestions welcome.

Stop Me Quick if You Think this is Crazy

Since I am feeling very alone in cyberspace, I feel safe in posting this. Tonight I was looking through the month's Artist Magazine. In the bottom right hand corner of the page was an ad for a dvd magazine......whoa...halt....stop. We have all the equipment and processors to do this type of magazine for the art quilt/quilt world in general. It lit a fire in my beady little mind. Sweet Ronnie ran for the other room as fast as he could with the refrain...."you might be getting in too deep."
However, I see this as a perfect outgrowth of the instructional dvd's.
It is obviously only one disc. It contained a feature artist, and interview and a technique section.....that's about all one disc could hold. It could come out quarterly or three times a year. No searching for advertisement since I have already paid for the start up cost. However, if they came to us once it appeared viable I might consider it.
There are plenty of contacts at my disposal. Please show me the downside....okay, time but I have an editor and a shopping cart site already set up. We could take subscriptions or you could just buy each time a new issue became available on the website. What am I not seeing?
Help! Is this a totally crazy idea or do you think it might fly?

The Constant Learner

Karoda said...

Dear Gabrielle,

speak to me as the frustrated artist that I am...I'm all about skill/technique at this point in my process...I get these ideas and images rolling through my head but cut myself short out of uncertainty of how to execute them. Sometimes I think the answer lies in taking local classes at the quilt shops but that seems like a waste of time because I'm not working on MY designs...I was able to take a week long workshop last summer that focused on technique with the main focus of developing one's own unique designs and it was over the top energizing and effective for me...but what can you suggest for the in-between times?????

Signed,
Frustrated in KY :)

Karen asks in her comment a very relevant question that any artist, no matter what their discipline, is faced with. We all wonder where to go from here in technique, design or subject matter. I am not sure this is the absolute answer but it seems to have worked for me and in my reading for many others. Here goes and I welcome your responses, if anyone is still reading my poor neglected postings.

During times of transition, turn to yourself for the answers. Going outside yourself to classes or coaches can be of benefit in certain situations but occasionally as Karen suggests they are a waste of time. I am self-taught in construction techniques. What I did was read books on a wide variety of techniques and then practiced them for long periods of time to see if they worked for me. Through this process, I discovered that I cannot accurately operate a sewing machine for complicated work but can do simple things with it. I am far better with needle, thread and my hands. Certainly, I had ideas, like Karen, that I wondered how I was going to construct but I came to them willing to do them incorrectly so that I could move on to another technique. The most exciting time for me as a quiltmaker was when my technical skills were on the edge of my design skills. Now after 20 plus years there is nothing that I can draw or conceive that I cannot execute. So as the old adage goes: Practice, practice, practice.

Do not be concerned if you will fail in your attempts. These are not failures they are learning what not to do. Thomas Edison experimented 2000 times before he discovered the method for making a filament that would serve to light our homes. Someone asked him why he kept on with all that failure. Paraphrasing his response, "They weren't failures. They were simply learning how to not make a filament." Meaning he used each attempt as a lesson to move forward for another attempt.

So, Karen, I would respond to your question with: Keep on sewing. Using the techniques you have to apply to your designs. When you get yourself backed into a corner, put that aside, see what it taught you and use that to move forward with another approach.

My other suggestion for all of us is that we be constant learners. Study other artists, look at clothing construction ( I didn't say make clothes) but discover what a French seam is, how to apply facings (now a very popular way for binding to the back so there is no stopping the image with a front facing binding), use your local library or buy second hand books if your budget allows.

As some of you well know, I am fascinated with research and studying other artist. It has been a constant inspiration for me. I in no way intended to do their work but I want to see how they approach composition, color, design to add to my own bag of tricks. It is when we become complacent with where we are that we tend to get bogged down. That is not to say that I won't return to leaf quilts at some point in time but am interested in following another path at the moment. I know I will receive resistance from the fans of the leaf quilts but I cannot be concerned with that. I keep my own counsel and follow through the open door.

Yes, Karen, after your amazing experience with freedom to explore, it is hard to hold on to that energy. I am not working in the studio at all at the moment but am concentrating on research and development. This is simply a plateau for both you and I. From this plateau will come a rise in movement, growth, improvement. Try to appreciate and enjoy the plateau, knowing that change is on the way.

Lastly, I will harp again on the pressure to produce in our particular discipline. We are expected to constantly have new work every year for whatever show or exhibit. We are way over the top on this particular aspect of artistic development. Bands spend months, even years developing new music.....which involves hours of practice in the studio and many do-overs until they get the right sound. I personally know painters who have worked on a single painting for many years. Often putting it aside, doing smaller works and then returning to their major piece until it is just what they are trying to express. My hope is that we would/could allow ourselves that same kind of latitude. However, I observe that we fear we will drop off the map if we don't continue to crank out work constantly. This sets us up for continual repeats and gives little time for exploration and experimenting.

A long answer to a short question but I hope it helps. The constant learner never faces fear of failure but instead welcomes anything that falls short of their vision. This isn't failure to the constant learner but instead a way to gain mastery over their medium.

Returning to contemplation, I remain certain that you will find your own techniques that are suitable for the work you wish to accomplish. Sending you lots of light and energy for your adventure.

The Fat Lady Sings and Blogger Fumbles

The convention finished today with some great work from my dedicated, highly skilled students but Blogger insisted I switch to the new account and for some reason won't post my pictures. I will try again later...maybe I have to do something to Picassa or switch back to old Blogger.

All that aside this has been another great conference and another visit to one of my favorite cities on the planet. Tomorrow begins the long journey home and a fond good-bye to Melbourne. Had my last dinner at the Jarrah House....they gave me a free bag of shrimp toast and wished me a safe trip home. Sigh...when will I get to delight in the joy of their cusine again.

While in Melbourne, I have been reading notes from two of my favorite books.....The War of Art by Steven Pressfield and The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp. Neither of these books are new but I continue to go back to them from time to time and just read the pages where they open. Looking through my notes, I was struck by a common thread: craftsmanship/skill. They both share the same philosophy. If you have technique finely honed, inspiration will come. Without skill, the ideas you have can never come to fruition. They both agree that the better you are at technique the better the finished work will be.

As quiltmakers, we would call Pressfield and Tharp the "quilt police." In their venues, they are considered genius, professional and models for their contemporaries. Just something to ponder since I can't post pictures. See you soon back deep in the heart of Texas.

Street Sculptures along the South Bank

 

A couple of Treats from the Borrowed Tools class

 

melbourne night life...story to follow

 

Fish 'n Chips

The most important event of the day. It is official I have now consumed fish 'n chips from a fish 'n chips shop. I really had calamari and prawns...yum. But it was definitely the high point of the day.

Tomorrow the festivities start. We deliver our quilts and attend the evening cocktail party....followed by the opening ceremonies and introductions and a lecture by yours truly on the luxurious life of traveling and teaching. Will try to take some pictures of the party.

During my vacation time, I have been contemplating two books that I recently finished. You know what that means: more blathering to follow. However, I won't spoil the mood of a fun day in beautiful, warm Melbourne....watch out tomorrow..... both books have chapters addressing/craftsmanship and skill. Just too close to bed time to drag out the soap box.

On a personal note: thanks Caity for the welcome...sorry you won't be here and Sharon, it was so good to hear from you. I will miss your company. I still see the Preston exhibit in my head from time to time. Glad you are working full time but my trip will be the lesser without you. 

A Few Bits of Local Culture

Since blogger is up to its usual tricks there will be more pic in the next post. This is a standard of some kind...not sure if it is a street light or what but it is covered with posters of upcoming events. It was just too cool to not commerate.

One of the things I love about Melbourne is the alleyways. Granted some of them are just alleys but others are chock full of wonderful little shops and restaurants. Today I took a right after leaving one of my favorite general stores...books, art supplies, food, etc...into one of the alleys. There was a coffee shop. a couple of restaurants, table and chairs to sit outside a enjoy your goodies and a small gift shop. These little treasure troves are just awaiting exploration.

All hope is lost...KrispyKreme has come to Australia. Just when you thought it was safe. Now the news is full of requiring restaurants to lower their trans fats......well, duh....and you invited KrispyKreme to the party. No offense anyone but I never got this. It's just a donut. They are good but they are still just a donut. Maybe there is something I am missing. I welcome corrections to my theory.
This is just such fun coffee shop found in the alley. I am sure Starbuck's is here somewhere but it makes my heart sing to see these mom and pop stores doing well.

Now to post the major event of the day..stay tuned.

Melbourne Day 2

I thought I would have more energy today but still suffering from some jet lag. Fell asleep around 8:30 p.m. and woke upat 3:23 a.m. Hoping for a better tomorrow. However, I did make my usual venture out just not as long as I would have liked.
Today's pictures include two views of the Grand Hotel, the convention center is on the other side of the over pass. Had to include scenes from my favorite Jarrah House, inside and outside. Loved the Backpackers Hotel, if I could get a big enough backpack for my shoes. Last but not least the infamous, Australian diet cokes.Please take note of the size of the bottle and the cost of four. It takes my breath away.
Will try to post some shops, museum, or galleries tomorrow.
Not bad enough the airport snafu but I am sitting quitely in my room watching season 5 of "24" that son Craig loaned me for the trip when suddenly all the bells whistle, sirens and a deep, manly voice comes over the intercom requesting that we please evacuate the building immediately. After serveral flights of stairs...breathing heavily...I arrive on the street to be met by several wardens with explosive unit written on their uniforms. Not to worry it was a drill but it certainly was exciting. I am not sure how much more of this is to be expected during this trip. Like getting electrified by the mic at my lecture.....nah! However, I anxiously await what tomorrow will bring. Nothing like OZ for excitement....and I haven't even had a single Cosmopolitan yet nor have I entered the casino doors.....but I still have plenty of time to get in trouble...ya think? 

Australia Day One

As you can see I made it to Melbourne but what a trip. First the good stuff....sunrise over the Pacific. There is no way a camera can capture the intensity of the color but it is still gorgeous. Second, notice how large my room, especially the bathroom, is compared to my last trip. The only problem is the closet so as you see I had to invent new storage areas for jewelry, shoes, and knit tops. Third and best of all, it was 17 F. in Texas the night before I left.....stepped off the plane to 89 F. Ooooh, aahhh.....how nice to be warm.
Other good news is the Jarrah House, my favorite Chinese restaurant, is still open and less than a block away from the hotel. I immediately stowed luggage, didn't upack a single item and headed down for take-out lunch and expensive diet cokes for the fridge. Upon stuffing myself with something other than bad airline food, took a shower (why do you feel so dirty when you have been sitting on a plane doing nothing?), hooked up to the internet and am beginning to feel human.
Now for the joys of traveling. We were held over in San Fransisco for two hours waiting for a flight from Chicago...gee I wonder why? United for some reason did not book my flight directly to Melbourne so I had to change planes to Virgin Blue to get to Melbourne. No problem right? Oh no, you have to get your baggage and go through customs because you are changing to a domestic flight. Problem: United still had my luggage on the direct flight so a wonderful young man at the airport goes and retrives my luggage himself. None of this calling some baggage handler he physically gets it himself. That is what I call excellent service. He directs me to the proper bus to change terminals and all is well. I check in, get my boarding and have to take another bus to the domestic terminal. Ready to go through security and no passport. Yikes! I have lost my passport....not that I wouldn't mind staying in Australia longer but at some point I have to come home. Trudge to the guest service desk where an amazing young lady tracks down my passport, which wasn't returned to me at the ticket counter. Seriously, these folks are going above and beyond, smiling all the while and reasurring me everything will be fine. I can only imagine what United would have done if this had happened in LA or San Fransisco. My young personal assistant has the passport delivered to her through some kind of magic, gets my luggage placed on the correct plane and hugs me good-bye at security. As Will put it "all's well that ends well." I am happily tucked away in my home away from home and ready to report on what I can explore and report this year.....so stay tuned for what awaits.

Late Night Ramblings

See I am trying to be a better blogger....two posts in the same week...the sky is falling. Insomnia is a wonderful thing or at least that's my story and I am sticking to it. It gives me time to plan the rest of the week and what is necessary for my next trips. Also, it gets the gears spinning about artist I want to study and see how I can apply what I can learn from them to my work. Could be good could be bad but at least I will experiment and learn.
It is really glorious to have something that you are passionate about. What do people do that haven't found that passion? Sadly, we all have a passion for something but often we don't allow ourselves to pursue it out of fear. There are two kinds of fear as I see it fear of failure and fear of success. Both quite closely related but coming from different places.
Of course, we have to overcome the personal demons of "I am not good enough," " No one will like what I do," " I will never be able to master the technique."
I have been thinking a lot lately about craftsmanship and inspiration. Here's what I have arrived at after some reading and thinking. If you focus on technique until it is absolutely natural, you never have to question how to create, any technique is readily available to you then something magical happens. The "muse" takes over and the work just comes. If you constantly focus on content, you will often end up having to re-work or trash the whole darn thing. However, if you go to the studio confident you can create anything you want then that is exactly what you will accomplish.
I firmly believe in apprenticeship, internship or whatever you want to call that period of time when you are learning your craft. We should study other artists, historical and contemporary.
Read American Artist and Art News to see what is happening in the world beyond textiles.
I do not believe in working in a vacuum where you never see anyone else's work for fear it will influence you. What is wrong if it does happen to inspire you? You won't work in their exact style; you will just come away with a new perspective.
As I continually blather about to much external stimuli invading our creative lives, I am not referring to art. I am referring to commercialism and propaganda. How can you discover your true self if the tv is always telling you how you should smell, eat, ask for prescriptions from your doctor? That is the type of external invasion that we must keep in check so we can hear our own voice...sing our own song...dance our own dance.
Stepping off soap box and possibly into bed....does blogging make one sleepy?

Not Like I Don't Have Anything to Say

First, let's whine about computers. For some unknown reason my desktop has decided to not recognize the USB port from my camera. Guess it just decided not to play nice. So I will upload some pictures from my laptop later.
My lack of posting is because I have been exhausted and at the same time working hard. There aren't enough hours in the day. However, I have a new plan...famous last words. I am picking a time and going to the studio everyday. I will work a certain number of hours until the energy passes and then leave the studio. Why am I taking this new tact? I discovered that I was working all the time. If I am not in the office doing business stuff, I am in the studio. If I am not in the studio, I am sitting on the sofa quilting or sketching. I am never not doing something. Results: I am tired every morning when I wake up. Decision: build in some do nothing time. Sure I will probably be contemplating or maybe even reading, but this will my cooling off time.
Can one become too passionate about their art? I think not but we have to feed the muse. Naturally being in the studio does this automatically but trying to do too many things at one time creates chaos and a lack of focus in me. What to do today? Should I work on this or that?

My travel schedule for this year is very heavy so I will need every ounce of energy just to get through....yet I am still compelled to create. Hope this plan works. I will keep you posted. All suggestions welcomed. I am sure we all suffer from the same dis-ease from time to time. Yet I firmly believe that there is a way to solve this situation.

I leave you with my favorite quote from Goethe (which speaks directly to the heart of the matter):

"Whatever you can do, or dream you can begin it. Boldness has genius, magic and
power in it. Begin it now."

A Very Quick Update

Short and sweet since I have to meet my ride in in few minutes. I made it out of DFW 45 minutes late due to de-icing. We were apparently one of the few flight that got off that day as the cancellation rate kept rising. Thinking all was well, landed in supposedly sunny California to 39 degree F. weather. It isn't just cool; it is downright wear layers and a coat cold. Hopefully, warmer weather is on the way.
The judging is going well. It is always a privilege to get to see the quilts so closely. Cindy Walters and Bonnie Browning, my fellow judges, and I are having a great time together. ....and the show staff is superior...well organized and tons of fun.
Will post more later...have tomottow off. For now your roving reporter is in good spirits and eager to get to work. Just a little concerned that Sweet Ronnie isn't freezing or trapped in the house with no food.

And Now For Something Completely Different

Leave it to Texas, my first gig is scheduled to depart Sunday morning at 9:50 a.m. I am going to Road to California early to be one of the judges. All sounding good, right? Just one teeny weeny ice storm that arrived tonight....accumulation of one quarter to one half inch of ice on roadways. I only live 20 minutes from the airport but the freeway is chock full of overpasses which they can't sand until the ice has finished building up. If they sand now the sand will just freeze in the ice...trivia for future reference should you need it.
Sweet Ronnie is refusing to drive our beloved Nissan in this all too dangerous situation. However, I do have memories of him driving to work in Dallas is weather like this last year....completely different obviously. Being a good girl, I agree and call Super Shuttle only to be informed that they are completely booked and not accepting any more reservations. I guess I could walk.....if I started now I should make it on time....better pack a lunch. The problem is I don't even own a coat for this kind of weather.
Texas just isn't good at this....and yet it happens at least once every year. I am on hold now with American Airlines. They have already started canceling flights. What are my chances of getting to Ontario, California....not a hot spot major destination. I will keep you up-dated on the saga of Gabrielle trying to get to the airport and actually getting on a plane. Ahhhh, I love the intrigue of traveling.

Things Forgotten

The house is quiet, not a creature stiring but me. Sweet Ronnie asleep and hopefully dreaming the dreams of a boy. I am at the computer (good at stating the obvious, no?) with my headphones on listening to Etta James.....sing it lady......and was just suddenly struck with where the monkey wrench is. Speaking only for me, but I think it has also overtaken Ronnie, the real me has gotten lost in being a responsible adult. Okay, now before you fall off the chair don't think that I am saying you shouldn't take care of the bills and all that kinda stuff. What I am talking about is an internal thing.
Do you remember what you felt like when you were younger? The freedom of a whole unexpected world out there waiting for you and all you had to do was take that first step. Remember how you would stay up all night or get up at 0 dark 30 just so that you could lie in the grass next to your beloved. Everything was new and so were you...it was a state of grace.
Now do you find yourself fretting over the smallest things. Becoming an adult has made me take myself way too seriously.....gotta do the bills, gotta clean the house, gotta get ready for a trip, gotta get into exhibitions, gotta make evocative, meaningful art. I know that these are important things but I guess it is my attitude toward them that has changed. I fear I have forgottten how to be free.....to follow my heart and instead let all those mundane but necessary things dictate what I do next.
Okay I admit it is the middle of the night and that probably doesn't work well with blogging.....but you're there to talk to...sorry. Maybe it is the new year but there are going to be some serious changes going on at Gabrielle. Who cares that it is 4:16 am in Watauga....what if I just got in the car with lots 'o cds and started driving until I got ready to u-turn to home?
What about now going into the studio and doing something I have never done before? Why can't I go wake up Ronnie, fix breakfast and have a great conversation with Etta in the background?
Enough rambling, if you have made this far you have real fortitude or absolutely nothing else to do....either one works for me. Closing remarks....remember what it felt like to be free...be responsible for your actions as they have consequences but don't lose you the girl/boy in the weight of responsibility. Remember when you were thrilled to have a hundred dollars left for the month....you made it through and it was good.
And to quote Etta," You smiled and then the spell was cast and here we are in heaven because you are mine at last." You still belong to you....and don't let it be one of those things forgotten.

Revolutions...Not Resolutions

This year I am planning a revolt. I am going to be a wild woman....experimenting with anything that crosses my path. I am going to study more so that I can give more to my students.....instead of finding a rut and just cranking it out....not like I do that...but really expose them to new and unsual approaches.
I will not make promises to anyone but my contractual obligations to teach so that I can have more time in the studio. I will not make quilts to fit catagories in either size or content and I don't care how long they take coming to fruition. I chose to work at my own discretion so that there is meaning in each piece for me....and hopefully the viewer but if not, oops!
Revolting instead of resolving gives me freedom from the guilt of not having accomplished what the resolution was. Instead the revolt can take as long as necessary to work its way into my daily routine. Ain't it about time that we all stop beating ourselves up over getting rejected, not having the right size quilt or just being lazy for a few days to contemplate where to go next. This isn't a race...it is a process.....it is an artist life. While no one could be more compelled than I to work, this revolution is an attempt to strike a balance between all the things I love....textiles, painting, photography, and even sweet Ronnie. Oh yeah, don't forget the sons and daughters and grandkidlets.
Wishing you the best year in all aspects of your life..... making lots of great art....and continuing on the path of self-discovery.

Twelve Things to Not Do Before Christmas

1. Start cleaning out your mother in laws house so you can put it on the market.

2. Ask your husband what he wants for Christmas. They never want anything until it's the wrong gift.

3. Loan your vacuum cleaner to your daughter in law that lives in San Antonio

4. Have your husband ask you what you want for Christmas.

5. Wait until next week to shop.

6. Have eight grand children of very different ages to buy for.

7. Ask your husband to help you get the house clean for the holidays.

8. Have no idea what you are cooking.

9. Fall and hurt yourself.

10. Be more interested in your art than the holidays.

11. Gain weight...the amount will not be revealed.

12. Experience weather in the upper 70 degrees F. It just doesn't fill me with Christmas cheer.

Coulda, Should, Woulda

I could have been posting to my blog daily but not! After Houston, got the studio and office in order. Shipped out all the orders to customers and then the paper work started. Purchasing tickets for Road2Ca, rapid emails to Australia and general "ugh" office work.
I coulda been in the studio painting, quilting, whatever but not! I was so exhausted after Houston that I have been sitting eating bon bons, reading and watching really bad t.v.
I woulda been more careful getting out of the bathtub but had placed my wet wash cloth on the side of the tub and fell very hard on my right side....eeoow! So I am wounded, tried quilting but even that hurts.
Last but not least I am green with envy over the work Mel is producing while I am still contemplating where I am going from here. All that said I'm back...couldn't get rid of me that easy.
I would post some pictures but my computer has suddenly decided not to recognize the usb cable on my camera...will it never end. This must be resolved immediately but frankly, I am enjoying the time off with sweet Ronnie with no deadlines looming and being a lazy bum. You should try it occasionally, it is good for the body and the soul.
Miss you all...be back soon.

A Few Views of Our Journey

First our booth for festival. We could set up today after 4 p.m. so while I was teaching until 5 p.m. Christy was hauling in stuff for the booth. As soon as I got out of class, I dashed down to the booth and we finished by 7 p.m. Not bad, right?
Of course, we had to include our home away from home and two lovely pictures of us after a long market and a long day.
The winners were announced tonight but because we had to get the booth done, I have nothing to report.
Tomorrow will be the worst day of the week. I have to teach until 5 p.m. and then dash to the booth to work preview from 5 until 10m p.m. Ugh! Thursday will be better since all we have to do is work the booth. Also daughter in law Kelly is arriving Thursday night to help Christy work the booth Friday while I teach an all day design class. Kisses to both of them for all the help.
We had a decent market and keeping our fingers crossed for festival. Come by and say hi if you have the chance. We got to keep the same space for festival...booth 250...so we didn't have to move out just re-configure for more stuff. We are only slightly dingy at this point..will keep you posted as the week progresses.

The rest of the class

Take note of the cute Halloween socks and the gorgeous lady wearing them was my class angel. The ladies worked hard on two basic reverse applique samples....as single leaf, and a vein line in a large tropical leaf. We had a great time.

Tomorrow is an all day class on surface design.
Great fun playing with paint and other cool stuf.


 

Working Hard on Reverse Applique

First day teaching...more pictures to follow. 

As promised, the Swain production company

We did it! The newest dvd is edited, burned and packaged....thanks to the help of two of my gorgeous daughters-in-law. First the Beautiful Kelly hard at work editing took time to smile for the camera. This was probably about 1 a.m. and I am not sure what day it was.
Thought I would throw in a picture of Sea Stones so you can see that I do still know how to quilt. This is a detail of the central panel of a tryptich. Who knows when the other two will even see a needle.
Next is Christy with her back to us placing all the orders for tables, drapes, electricity and phone lines for our booth.....remember 250...come see us if for no other reason than to see Christy's sweet face and gorgeous hair.
The rest of the pictures are what my office looked like while we were packing and what it looks like now that we are done. We decided on a fall theme for color. Don't ya just love those lime green and orange containers? We are using leaf garlands....big surprise, no?....to wrap the poles...and yes, they are fire-proof. Sheesh!
The big funny looking machine is my new HP laser printer. Yes, I managed to burn up my faithful Cannon i960 printing all the inserts for the dvds. Sad day...it was a great printer and had really worked hard for me. However, you should see the difference in the color between the ink jet and the laser. Knocked me out...the laser is a thing of beauty. Of course, it uses toner instead of ink...to the tune of $70 a cartridge. Yep, you read that correctly but I can't wait to print some of my photography series on it.
My thanks to all of you for your thoughtful insights on my social commentary post. Please, if you have a chance go to Mel's blog and read her thoughts on the post. I couldn't agree with her more. At this point in my life and career, I want to make the work that is meaningful to me.....actually I have always felt that way but got caught up in building a body of work that would afford me the privilege of having the career. Now like Melody, I am off to new territory...unknown but undeniable. Hopefully, after Houston I will have time to tackle some of the quilting I need to do. Lots of unfinished tops just waiting to be layered. Can we call off the holidays in lieu of quilting? 

A Small Discourse on Art as Social Commentary

While Kelly is working her fingers to the bone editing the newest dvd, I am watching for takes two and three and thinking. Oh, boy, here she goes again. Lately there has been quite a bit of discussion that as quilt artist we aren't making strong enough statements regarding the state of our society. While I agree that art imitates life, etc., I take umbrage with this you must do a certain kind of work to be doing work of value. As I see it every piece is social commentary because it is coming from a place inside of you that is seeking to make meaning in our world. The piece doesn't have to be an in your face statement but can be subtle and still contain very deep meaning.
For example, Claire Fenton's work about Katrina is breathtaking, yet subtle and is an obvious social commentary. However, it is also a personal expression of the effects this ordeal has had on her and the beautiful state she lives in. Even if you did not know it was about the devastation of the hurricane, you would be moved by this work.
Now let's look at Rayna Gillman's work with the antique photographs...some might be from her family; others she collects from various sources. Is this a political statement? Only Rayna can answer that but it certainly is a social commentary. Rayna is revealing something to us about herself....what she is drawn to, what memories effect her, how the imagery expresses something within her emotional, spiritual nature.
On the other hand, take a few minutes to look at Melody's new stack quilts. No politics as far as I can tell. I am open to being corrected on this, Mel. However, the composition and color are spectacular. Each piece stands alone as well as in the series. Is it socially relevant? Absolutely...anytime an artist reveals something from that inner core it is a gift to us all.
So enough with the we have to be socially aware, political artists for our work to have meaning.
Making meaning comes in all shapes and sizes....and quite often it is in the viewer's eye not the artist's eye. We have to make the work that feeds our soul regardless of what the imagery is....carry on digging deep into that external place where you know beauty resides.

Packaging the last crate of dvd's, but have no idea what I am going to wear since I haven't had time to tackle the closet......and then, of course, there will be the shoe dilemna. We have already assessed that everything will not fit into my Nissan Altima...drat....so we are renting a mini-van. How far have I fallen in the cute car department? I will be constantly looking for teen-age boys to carry to baseball practice. Will post some pictures of La Casa Swain as a manufacturing company when everything is done. Until then....who's big idea was this?

A Short Treatise on Design

While admitting I have fallen of the wagon on daily blogging, that doesn't mean that I have stoped contemplating what we do as artist. My last several classes have been design classes which have left me gobsmacked at the amazing work done by quiltmakers who think they have no talent.
Why is this happening? First, as an instructor I see myself as a facilitor, guiding you to where you want to go and what you want to create. No longer do I teach from patterns unless it is a strict technique class......even then we aren't making "Gabrielle Swain" quilts. We are just learning the techniques I use in my work. My goal is to give you the confidence to try even if you don't succeed the first time; to encourage you to experiment so you can find the happy accident or learn what not to do the next time; and last to give as succinct as possible a road map to follow for future work.
Having said all that here is my standard approach to teaching design and my own work:

1. It is more important what you leave out than what you put in. Think about it we can't use every technique we know or every beautiful fabric we own in a single quilt.....so focus and simplify.

2. Anything asymmetrical or on the diagonal is strong than straight lines. Angles create visual tension and thereby visual interest.....which is what we are all after, keeping the viewing at the quilt longer.

3. Work with intention...know where you want to go before you get there. Have you ever made a quilt that did not turn out as you had expected? Usually, we find a fabric and let it guide us. I work exactly the opposite, I work a design until it says exactly what I want it to and then find the fabric that will give me that effect. I call this having a road map...it doesn't prevent spontaniety since you can stop anywhere on the road for gas, food or whatever. However, without the road map you far less likely to reach your destination than you will if you have the map.

4. Finally, if design is the bones that hold the piece together, then compositon is the relationship between the bones, i.e. which bone goes where and last, but never least, color is the flesh placed over the bones that allow us to see the structure of the design and composition.

We can all do these simple steps and still find surprises along the way. Give it a try and see if it works for you. The greatest gift you can give yourself is the find a way to work in series. It doesn't have to be the same quilt over and over in a different colorway......but this is a perfectly viable series. Think of how many times Monet painted Chartes.....in the rain, sun, at night, on a cloudy day...you get the picture. The other way to approach a series is to find a subject matter that intrigues you a ride that horse until it drops. To use myself as an example, I have been making leaf quilts since 1994. I am currently working on a quilt called "The Last Leaf," which I just learned is the title of an O Henry story. The story goes a woman knew she would die when the last leaf fell from the tree outside her window. To keep her alive a friend daily went out and painted leaves so they appeared as if they were still on the tree. Of course, in the famous O Henry style of ending, the painter ended up dying of pneumonia since he painted in rain, snow, etc. Now this quilt has even deeper meaning to me. Lesson: could you find a story that would inspire a quilt and from that develop a series?

Back to subject matter as series, two of my most recent students were microbiologists. They are fascinated as what they see in the lab. One jumped right in designing cell structures; the other was trying to work on leaves and flowers since everyone else in the class was doing so. She had already shown a spectacular quilt of single cell structure. Immediately, noticing that she was struggling, I gently went to her and asked why she was working against her own desires. She is in love with what she sees in her work....this is what she should be translating into art. I got a big smile and a thank you and she was off and running on a spectacular design.

Working in series allows you to fully explore an image from every possible perspective. You can work on more than one series at a time......and like chewing gum when you get all the sweetness out of one series or subject matter, move on to something else that interests you. Each series will feed energy into the other. You will have strengthened your design skills and your desire to experiment.

To close this conversation that I have with myself all the time and am now sharing with you, I leave you with these parting words: "Just because you can do it doesn't mean you should." In other words spend more time with the design trying some of the suggestions I mentioned instead of trying to get all the techniques and fabrics in this single piece; there will be othere quilts and more fabric....see what happens to you internally and externally to the work when you enter the studio eager with the possibility of the day. Remember simplicity is elegance.

Back to packaging dvd's...hope to see some of you or at least your quilts in Houston.

Finally Home

I walk into the living room only to discover boxes and boxes of jewel cases waiting to be packaged for market and festival. As you can see, Ronnie has carefully stacked with them with some help from Charles so he is hidden by said boxes. Just when I was ready to get back to quilting....what a concept....instead I go into production mode.
As you can see one whole shelf of packaged dvd's is already crated for Houston. The lower shelf is burned dvd's ready for packaging. You gotta love that black shelf on the green wall... what gorgeous contrast and what a major league job. My drop dead date to have everything finished is 21 October. I would prefer the 17th but that might be pushing it some. I just need a few days to get my clothes ready and the automobile packed. We get to move into our market booth on the 26th of October...then have to tear down and set up for festival. The good news is Quilts, Inc. was so good to me this year. I have the booth for both market and festival....250...so drop and say "Hi!" if you make it the celebration.

Last but never least, just to show you what retirement can do to a very tired man...it turns them into a very happy man. Ronnie is growing his winter pelt so his beard is longer than in previous pictures.....but look at that smile. Retirement is good and believe it or not, I am enjoying every minute of being with sweet Ronnie. Live long with love and peace. 

Onward to Des Moines

FirstI must say a thank you and give big hugs to Fern, Lynn, Sandy, Julie and all of students in Des Moines. What an incredibel trip. They wined, dined and treated my like a old friemd. I will always remember this trip as on of my favorites.
Better yet, they did incredibe design work but stupid me forgot my camera the day of critique. Way to go Gabrielle! I am hoping they will send me jpegs of their work when they finish.
To top it all of the weather was beautiful while it was 90 degrees Farenheit in Texas. A beautiful Indian Summer this girl really needed. 

Hoping you haven't forgotten me?

I have spent much of the last month in the Heartland teaching and of course, working on dvd's for market. However, I couldn't resist posting pictures from my visit to Lawrence, Kansas and Des Moines, Iowa. These are incredible guilds. I feel so spoiled by them I may never be good for anything ever again.
Some of the ladies in Lawence had never designed before but were skilled far beyond their expectations. You will see the amazing work they produced from these pictures.
Fabric selection was imperative for each design and often required the help of a neighbor. Deep in discussion always adds to the process of design and fellowship.
Aren't these some of the most exciting flowers ever? See you can do it.....you just have to give yourself the time. Most of us are working from the fabric letting us inspire us. I work and teach my students to work from the design first and then move to the fabric. When you work in this way, you always have a road map to guide you to exactly where you want to go.