Critique Group

Since moving to Bloomington I have been graciously welcomed into a critique group of fabulous local artists.  We are working on a drawing project together.  Here are a few images from our first critique of the project.

Process

I have a few projects underway.  I am working on a large drawing for a group show proposal with a collection of Bloomington artists.  The photo shows how I often begin, testing images and placement on tracing paper.  After I solidify the composition and content, I transfer the drawing to paper.

A small multi media painting in process.  I saw a recently hit fawn on the highway a few weeks back.  I have not been able to get it out of my head.  The fawn reminds me of the innocence and beauty of the forest and the narratives that are contained within.  

When to Stop

I always wonder when is it time to stop working on a drawing. Other than an exhibition date approaching or extreme boredom with the image, I always want to add more.  Since recently returning to the studio I have been treating my drawings if they are precious.  I hesitate to work on them or try new things. I hate feeling that way, it is as if my hands are tied behind my back. 

I already overworked this drawing last week with too much spray paint. I still hesitate to add more, even though I considered it wasted. 

When is more really more and when is more too much? 

This continues to run through my mind.  I will walk away from this drawing for a day or two until I feel more confident in my choices. 

Back to Work

My summer has been filled with a lot of traveling and newborn care.  Since my little one arrived in June I have been spending as much time with my family as possible.  Now he is a little older I am working in the studio when he sleeps and big sister is at preschool. 

Here are a few small studies,  testing some new media and reminding my fingers how to draw.

I will post photos of the drawings when they are done and I have started some larger works.   I am hoping for some quiet time in my future to prepare for upcoming exhibitions.  

Until then, I will enjoy this small, sweet, child.

Swope Opening

On Saturday I attended the opening of the Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition.  It was fun to visit Terre Haute for the first time.  The old downtown was beautiful especially the Swope Art Museum and the Indiana Theater. 

There were many people at the opening from around Indiana.  I enjoyed seeing old and new friends.  The artwork was very diverse and the show was very well done.  I really enjoyed walking through the rest of the museum and looking at the permanent collection and the amazing architecture.

The exhibition will run from July 10- September 4, 2010.

66th Annual Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition, Swope Art Museum

I am very excited to have one of my drawings included in the Annual Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition this year at the Swope Art Museum.  I will be attending the opening reception to receive the Alliance of the Swope Award of Honor for my drawing, Strangled.  I can't wait to visit Terre Haute for the first time and meet old and new friends at the celebratory party. 

66th Annual Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition

July 10- September 4, 2010

Opening Reception: Saturday, July 10, 2010

4:00-6:00 PM

Swope Art Museum

Award Ceremony at 4:00 PM

Delusions Installation Views

Delusions: Abbigail Knowlton Israelsen recently closed at the Waldron Arts Center's Flashlight Gallery.  It was a great opportunity to show some drawings in a very unique space.  I had a lot of support from the community and am eager to push my work further.