Preparing for the Open Studio the other day my husband said that guests can take home art that could only be created in a sanctuary, and experience the Sanctuary. That was quite a realization for me. It put many things into perspective. I take for granted how imbued this land and studio is with all the treasures our senses can hold. It is all translated into art. “Live Sunwise” is about art in an expanded definition.  It is Transformative Art, one that strives for beauty in all areas with an unquenchable desire to create. It is Celebratory Art, one that supports slowing down enough to hear the small prompts within.

We would love for you to experience yourself through the smell of lavender, the sound of so many bird songs, the feel of the breeze in the sunset tree swing, the feel of ancient beads, the sight of a mysterious but compelling painting, or the taste of dandelion petals.

Herb garden on 5,11.16 at Sunwise Farm and Sanctuary

This is the little Robin nesting in the Lilac bush as you enter the garden from the driveway. I feel so trustworthy that she would build her nest within arm’s reach of the path. Someone transcribed Robin song, which I have added to this collage, seen in very unfinished state.

“Lilac Enchantment”, unfinished, detail of Robin drawing by Kathleen O’Brien

Greg has been busy getting 15 Fig trees potted and ready for lucky gardeners to take home. Most of the rock work in the terraces using Shaker quarried stone (ask him to tell you that story!) was done. He added the pieces that flank the steps, making it perfect, in my opinion. All the safer for you to walk on the path.

Greg’s new terrace work with Shaker quarried Stone on 5,11.16 at Sunwise Farm and Sanctuary

Lilac time is a favorite segment of the year, mostly because of it’s enchanting fragrance. Luckily I dried a few of the flowers and added them to the collage. There were many shadows to draw on this 22×30″ piece, but the task was a pleasant one as I sat next to the hedge along the west porch. Sorry you won’t find lilacs other than in the art – we’ve moved on to lilac pruning time, sigh.

“Lilac Enchantment”, detail of Lilac drawing and Lilac botanicals by Kathleen O’Brien

It is fascinating for me to transform the experience of Sanctuary into art, which can be transformed into objects of beauty that add simple pleasure into using them.

New Carry All Pouches by Kathleen O’Brien

I recently added eight new card sets (that’s 32 cards) to the 4 Seasons Cards and Prints line, they are not online yet, you’ll be the first to see them when you come on Saturday!

“Big Cloud, Silver Lining” card set by Kathleen O’Brien

Sunwise Open Studio Celebration flyer by Kathleen O’Brien