Demo Woodblock Print

I made this woodblock print for my demonstration at the Chrysler Museum which was this past Saturday. My influence was Toulouse Lautrec's "Le Chat Noir" I wanted it to be something that could go along with the show there. He did lithographs but liked Japanese woodblock prints. I don't do Japanese prints but I can do regular woodblock prints, so there you have it! If you are confused, so be it! I was a bit nervous at first but my demo went well especially once I was able to shed the microphone. I know printmaking very well so I had a lot to talk about!

Bienvenue from the Chrysler Museum!

In my collection of small linocuts  I have a few with French words. The museum shop at the Chrysler Museum in Norfolk, Virginia thought they would be a good addition to their French themed table. The museum is having several exhibits of famous French artists' works this year so their shop has a collection of related items. It's fun to see them there! One way to remember French words - make lots of handmade prints!

Strawberries

I always look forward to this time of the year because it's time to pick strawberries! We have several farms in the area where you can do just that and if you go early enough in the season, you can go back for more. It's easy to be greedy! These were organic and so sweet. Another favorite, asparagus, was available at the farm stand and local too. Oh no, now I'm hungry.

Some strawberries from  the past!

Planting Day

Yesterday I was able to take a break from my busy schedule to plant flowers. It was a very warm sunny day but there was a perfect breeze, making it a very pleasant planting afternoon. I could hear the birds busy in conversation, especially the chickadees and cardinals, with the crows much engaged in what seemed some sort of game. I think they're very good at amusing each other! The pots are all ready to be sprinkled about the patio and yard...mostly in the shade of course since sunny spots are rare. To bypass all of the sun-loving flowers at the nursery takes will power!

plant nursery

A Beautiful Painting - Artist Unknown (I wish I knew!)

I saw this beautiful painting on the internet and had to share it. I love the colors and the composition and really, everything about it! It surely inspires me. Now I want to paint with oils but should I? It's easy to get distracted by another great medium. And the oils - they can be so amazing, like this one!

Quincaillerie

At one time, I just loved the French word "quincaillerie". I didn't know what it meant but it had a nice sound and look. Rediculous or not, oh well!  When I went to France a few years ago, I saw this in a town in Provence, the only time I saw it during my visit. I don't know if it's a very common word. Maybe it's a sign that I should do a painting of this place!