Now that its autumn things are falling into place nicely. After six months of creating a myriad assortment of paintings, rare bead jewelry, artist books and new card designs I am preparing for the presentation cycle of studio work. The season started with the bead demo at Pleasant Hill. Next will be the 15th Annual Autumn Open Studio followed by Gallery Hop in Danville, and my online Holiday Special.
It’s a definite shift in focus outward, one that takes me a while to go forth with no stops. To be able to talk about the art, it all hinges on me finding the containing theme of the art produced since spring. And keeping agreements made to myself about not pushing, no overwhelm.
Naming the theme evolved slowly. The images that locked my attention gave me much comfort came from gazing at the breathing curtains on the east porch. With the morning glories spiraling on the strings shadowing the drapes, feelings of mystery and protection soothed me in the heat of the drought. They would not have survived without our watering.
Morning Glory Curtains
We needed water also and took advantage of a getaway to Hot Springs NC. I don’t like to “make art” on vacation, but in the past few years I have benefited by making a memory journal. I set my purpose to explore new ways of seeing, expressing, being and enjoying. I invented a word (I think) for it “Injoy”. Doing this lead me to the next step.
Injoy Book by Kathleen O’Brien
Injoy Book by Kathleen O’Brien
Injoy Book by Kathleen O’Brien
I was thrilled to have my daughter visit, by herself – no “energetic others”. How luxurious to have conversations! She needed a break from recently launching a life time dream, Longmont Out Loud (LOL). As a maven she knows so much about collaboration and bringing folks together around laughter and caring. She gave me a few tips when I discussed a theme for the autumn collections.
She said “it’s OUR time for artists to help people, quide them back out into the world, remind them what it’s like to be around live art; see living color as opposed to screen color.” That set the stage (Audrey would laugh) for my heart to open to hear. It’s a process of integration, doing the work, letting the story reveal itself. When I heard these words in my mind, I knew I had my theme; curiosity, mystery, all heart.
Injoy Book by Kathleen O’Brien
What is different for me is to keep these collections “secret” (for the most part) until unveiling times arrives. But I just had to choose a few details for a grid that would convey, as least to me, the tone of the theme.
16 curiosities by Kathleen O’Brien
curiosity – mystery – all heart
So true. It’s time for art to emerge from each of us from within – to learn to express and share with each other. It is a mystery to let it emerge from within from the heart. Thank you, as always for sharing your depth and spirit. An invitation to us all.
I am inspired by how you allow art to emerge, consistently since I have known you. I continue to be in awe about the mystery of how images flow from the heart. When I begin a piece I feel empty, then with just one stroke of the brush out it comes. It’s my pleasure, mission actually, to share this miracle. Thanks for your appreciation.
It’s a pleasure to hear about your process. I can relate. So happy you had one-on-one time with your daughter recently. Thanks for sharing, Kathleen! Hoping to see you soon.
Having a friend who can relate makes all the difference for my art practice! I am blessed to have a daughter who is not only caring but a wise consultant. I always enjoy sharing time with you, hope it’s soon as well.