Time

Where does the time go? I vow to write on this blog yet it seems that the opportunity slips through my fingers. Time is clearly one of those challenges that many artists face and few can conquer.

Recently however I had the opportunity to share a blustery Sacramento afternoon with Chris Foster and Veronica at Access Sacramento. Veronica has been meeting with many of the Art Trekkies to interview them in their studios. I opted to go to the Access TV Studio with Chris. It was my first opportunity to get to see that type of environment so it was quite exciting.

I was impressed to see the organization that was going on to create a public television clip. The camera crew were all very dedicated and focused - in spite of their youth or lack of experience. Veronica was the director and she lead with a clarity and patience. Many kudos to her and her team. I am looking forward to seeing the tapes that she creates from the interviews of the art trek team. They will be airing on Channel 17 & 18 Cable TV. When exactly we don't know yet but we are all eager to have our debuts.

I have been enjoying some time to work in my studio as we have Easter break. It's been luxurious to have time to clean up some piles and to pursue some ideas that have been floating in my head. There are two things that I have been focusing on so far. One is a plate of a tabby cat. This is for a gentleman in Pennsylvania. He contacted me and asked me to make a piece for his daughter. What a lucky daughter to have such a thoughtful dad. He sent me a picture of an adorable tabby cat that has little white paws. It was fun working on and I am so pleased I would like to make a similar one of my friend's cat Bubba.

The second project that I have been working on is due to that day with Chris Foster. Chris creates these beautiful paintings that include phrases or quotes. I was listening to her explain her passion for the word and for calligraphy. So I started to consider including some quotes with my glass. I am now making some fun tiles that include some of my favorite "words of wisdom".

Chris Foster Musings

THE PROCESS

MUSINGS BY CHRIS FOSTER

“Where do you find the words?” Chris is often asked this question about her paintings. She tells us she has, for 30+ years, accumulated a computer database of writings, organized by subject matter.

Sometimes the idea or words come first, and then the image that follows is my interpretation of those words. Other times, I just paint what appeals to me and find my own words to accompany the visual. The stage of finding the right words may require weeks of meditation before I find the right fit.

I‘ve recently been doing what I call improvisational “Jazz Writing.” I start the work with an idea but no thumbnail plan of the finished drawing. One mark is put down, and then the second mark (or stroke or word) is a reactionto the first, and the piece continues to unfold. This is a very spontaneous way of working and the resultscannot be predicted,as it’s best to work in the moment. The viewer may find misspellings, no punctuation, or illegible passages. Of course, the artist’s knowledge of good composition and design are crucial to the success of the painting. Unexpected things will appear.This method of working requires a setting asideof my ego. “Going with the flow” isn’t as easy as it sounds, nor is silencing my own mental critic. Quite often, failure is part of the process.

My calligraphic paintings aren’t just about reading words. They draw the viewer in to ponder meanings and explore their own personal feelings about the ideas expressed.

If you's like to see more of Chris' work take a look at her web site. Her use of color and lettering is inspiringly beautiful.

www.letterdesign.com