Necessary Critical

I got to work in my studio yesterday for about six hours, the most time I've had in there since I moved all my furniture and tools in. I worked on the last piece in my Alone/Together series and now it feels like I'm really making progress. As I sat there stitching with my headphones on, I realized just how important studio time is. In the past, when I've been on my own, I could work as much as I wanted, whenever I wanted. My day is now divided between responsibilities at home to my parents and my work in the studio. My home time can be very busy and every day seems to bring something new to deal with, some things often difficult and draining. I would love to establish a routine, but I realize that may not be possible so I will take my studio time when I can get it. And, when I do get it, I will cherish it. I stayed away from the internet yesterday (except for Spotify!) and I turned the volume on my iPhone off. I minimized distractions and worked as hard as I could. It felt really good but it also made me feel sad. Being in the studio is necessary because I have to work, practically speaking, but from a creative, emotional and mental standpoint, it is critical. I need that time to use my mind and my hands, and to be happy. It feeds me, which sounds cliche, but it's very true. I miss my long days but I am grateful for the moments I do have now.

Thanks for reading.

Etsy is Back

Small Earrings in the Subdued Palette from the Regal Graffiti Collection

I just reopened my Etsy Shop last night…I discontinued a few pieces and will be adding a few new things in the coming weeks. AND, shipping in the US is now ALWAYS free. That's right, always.

Take a look and please return often…and thank you.

Banner Earrings, my favorite from the History Repeats Collection

Large Arc Necklace from the Line Drawings Collection

Thanks for reading.

I am Truly Happiest When I am Alone in My Studio

My studio is looking pretty sweet and I love being in there. There's a lot of stress at home helping to take care of my dad so I find true refuge in my space, probably more than I ever have. I haven't been able to spend much time working, so when I am in there, the time is precious. I now have my beloved Icelandic finds on the wall and in various arrangements, my books are organized and my bench is totally set-up. Today I was able to find two hours of uninterrupted time and I felt so relaxed, so very happy. Being in the studio alone is the best and this new one of mine is a special place already.

The title of this post is my Twitter status from yesterday. It's the thought I had as I stitched and listened to one of my favorite Icelandic bands, Hjaltalín.

Thanks for reading.

Guest Star Friday #128…Agnes Martin

The Tree

I've been spending a lot of time with Agnes Martin again. I spent a lot of time with her when I was in Iceland so I guess I am picking up with her where I left off, too, just like in my work as I mentioned yesterday. Right now I'm just looking, though. I'm not reading. I just want to feel these paintings and I find them to be very calming and contemplative…the subdued color, the order of the grid or striped patterns, the appealing square shape of each composition. There is a lot of emotion here underneath all that subtly…

The Sea

Rain (Study)

Night Sea

Stone

See more of my favorite Agnes Martin paintings on Pinterest.

Also see more on Artsy.

Thanks for reading.

Picking Up Where I Left Off

In addition to starting the "homeland" part of  my new work, I'm also happily working on the final necklace in my "Alone/Together" series that I began in Iceland. This is the first I have embroidered since I left Iceland and it feels wonderful, not only the technique/process but also resuming work on a beloved piece from a beloved place. It's also an opportunity to be still and quite which also feels really important because there is a lot happening in my home life with my father…

When I am done with this piece, it will be the biggest necklace I have made. It's exciting to me to be working in this scale and it feels transitional as I move toward more sculptural work. The necklace will measure about 16 feet long.

Thanks for reading.

Pinterest!

I'm now on Pinterest! I've been "avoiding" it because I know it could be a recipe for obsession. I've had friends tell me how many hours they spend pinning and I know I could easily follow in their footsteps. I spend a lot of time on the internet and I love organizing. However, I realize what a great way Pinterest is to keep track of things I'm interested in, much like bookmarks only better because it's all visual. I'm also excited about it because it's another way I can share what inspires me with all of you. I have a few boards started including "Abandoned Spaces," "Arrangements and Collections," and "Favorite Jewelry by Others." I also created a board for last week's Guest Star, Liza Lou, and will add more boards that feature the work of artists I admire.

Thanks for reading!

P.S. Just a reminder…I'm also on Instagram!

Moving and Starting

I moved all my furniture and tools into my studio on Friday on what seemed like the coldest day ever. It was below zero! I got everything set-up for the most part and I'm sure I'll move things around a bit more as I adjust to the new space. I also have to hang some things on the wall which is always very fun for me. The space is feeling really good already!

As you know, I've been walking, collecting images and thinking, and today, I'm going to start working. This day is always an exciting and daunting one and I feel the same as I usually do, both enlivened
and scared. I will probably do some sketching and maybe make a maquette in paper. I just want to get some initial thoughts into physical form as the next step in my process.

Thanks for reading.