With summer break ending soon, I am not really sure where the summer went. Most of it was spent dodging the horrid heat. It has been a very long time since we have all experienced a summer like this. I tried staying cool by flashing back to cooler days, much cooler days, and snow days! Sometimes it would actually work....sipping hot tea, making a pot of vegetable soup, and curled up with a book as I looked out at birds scrambling for seed on the newly fallen snow. (Coolness....ahahah). I can not wait....has anyone heard what the 2012 winter forecast is?
Many adventures were mine over the summer. New flower beds, a new studio to create in, meeting new friends, spending some time (although not enough) with long-made friends, taking new classes and teaching new classes; yet I do not feel as if the summer was long enough. There are still things on my list that I wanted to do....one day at a time now, I guess. I guess that's why there are 'to do' and 'bucket' lists.
Lucky Garden Charm
On the way to Asheville
One of the most interesting things I did over the summer was to take a cold wax class from the amazing Cindy Walton. Not only did she share her talent and knowledge, she also (after long days of teaching) took us to various galleries during the Friday Art Walk in downtown Asheville and then joined a few of us for dinner. The following day, after teaching, she invited us to her studio at the Wedge! It is a space filled with light and lots of creative energy. I do not know if you are familiar with her work or not, but I have to say, I have fallen in love with her work, especially her oil paintings, which are as inspirational, vibrant, and beautiful as she is.
Cindy Walton
Not only did I meet Cindy, but I met so many astonishing artists from the Rivers Edge Arts District. I was extremely impressed with the comrade of all the artists, but most of all at the unity of the artists to have a main, or specific area where ALL the artists seem to show and work. Fleta Monaghan, the owner of 310 Art @ Riverview Station, was another beautiful person I met along this journey.
I was impressed with her vision and how she opened up her gallery and teaching space and nurtured ALL artists. I was amazed with the fact that EVERY ARTIST in the area appeared to work together for the common good of the arts...collaborating and sharing ideas. I also was impressed that there was a designated 'district' that was well represented by the CITY!!!! How refreshing. My wish is that one day, in Roanoke, we can make this happen.
Autumn Color (C) gls cold wax and oil POR
Well, summer is about gone. I hope yours was healthy, happy, and creative. Now it is back to the schedule and time to get ready for the plethora of shows that are upcoming.
P. S. Here are a few images from my MIXED MEDIA and cold wax class July 2012
Dreama
Hope
Vera
