Thursday, March 20, 2014

Lighthouses

These noble structures captivate me.  Partly because of where they are located, by the sea where I was birthed and lived for so many years, but also there is something strong, dependable, silent- holding so many stories of ships kept on course, and the relaxed, vacationing  people enthroning them in awe.  They hold history, they embrace beauty.     Over and over I'm drawn back to them, in my mind and   
as well as myself physically, on those many, many road trips. 
So for me to create works of art which adorn them, 
I get very, very happy.  


This painting, called "Days Like These", was done over the passed few weeks.  It was during all the frigid weather, so it was a nice escape, bringing me to my beloved shore, 
even if only in my mind and through my brush.      

I was asked to hang this one at one of my favorite little cafe/art galleries in Huntersville where hopefully, it will grace the home of someone who has the same love as me.
(and if you'd like to view it in person and want to purchase this one,
it's at Cafe 100 on Gilead Rd. in Huntersville) 

Summer is approaching, I can almost smell that salty air as it flies across my skin.

 And on to more....
Last year,  I participated in an Art Exchange, 
receiving some beautiful pottery for one of my pieces.
It seems as it was time for that again, as a lady who I went to high school with, who is also a talented artist, liked the idea of doing one with me!   She works with felt, doing a process I have no idea what it all involves, but knew that it was lovely.    When asked what she loved...well, to my joy she said "Lighthouses".   So to work I went, creating something special for her, causing each little detail to hold something special in meaning. 



I couldn't decide which lighthouse to do on this cupboard door which a friend gave me, so I opted to put both on it.  After adding some paint, I did an ink transfer process for the lighthouses,  added more paint, then bees wax and a darkening agent to give it texture and an oldish look.  Combining these specific techniques are probably my favorite way to create.  It always has a hint of surprise on how 
the finished piece will actually look.  


Here is a couple of shots to show the detail surrounding each lighthouse.   I of course, have to throw hidden particulars on my work, such as the 5 tally marks representing "grace", and a red splotch, reminding me of the Blood of Christ that was so lovely poured out for humanity.  Little things like that speak volumes, at least to me, and lets me leave a mark of my deep rooted beliefs, wherever my work may end up.   





My dear friend from long ago, 
the day she received 
"Where I am Free"



This was the beautiful felted wall hanging that Dawn sent to me for the exchange.  Photos don't do artwork justice, and of course my cell phone camera doesn't help.  There are shiny fibers that are woven throughout, making this so delightful.  


I am grateful for art, which brings people together, and paints color on a sometimes gray world.

To view my other NEW blog, which encompasses an array of writings, food in all it's glory, and things interesting to me in doing this thing called "life", you can find it at: