On Valentine’s Day, I saw an Instagram post from one of the best art supply stores in town, Art Central. The offer was Canson 140lb watercolor paper, 100% cotton, both hot and cold press rolls (60” x 5 yards.) The original price was $259.95; sale price $150. That’s a good deal in itself, however, if I liked, commented and shared this great offer on Instagram, I could purchase the roll for $90.
That was exactly the swift-kick-in-the-pants I needed to work larger. If I fumbled, struggled or botched the paper, the financial impact was minimal. Conversely, the reward could be greater confidence in working on a larger surface. A picture (or video) is worth 1,000 words of me trying to single-handedly hang the mammoth size paper on the wall. I had a conundrum. As you can see below, the desired wall has a shelf and I never measured the space above the shelf to the ceiling. That space alone would not accommodate 60”. After a few attempts, I was exhausted and gave it a rest for a few days. Eventually, I cut the paper to 36” x 60” with the remaining roll at 60” x 4 yards, which is still large. (Note to self: Measure twice; cut once.) Failure? Not at all. I will go to work on this paper and once complete, I’ll cut an even larger piece off the roll and enlist extra hands to hang it on my studio wall.
New work
In response to the atmospheric river which brought serious rainfall to California, I completed Aftermath. It’s a diptych (30” x 60” on a 2” cradle board) and mixed media (acrylic, kozo paper and debris from the Salinas River.) Next step: Schedule professional photographer and submit to select exhibits.
Workshop
On March 11 from 1:00 to 4:00p.m., I’ll be hosting Abstract Explored. This workshop introduces abstract drawing and painting in a fun and shared way. Participants will explore color, texture, shapes and mark making that will improve composition and improvisation. This workshop is designed to expand your ability to enjoy and respond to abstract art. This is the one workshop that requires a minimum of five people so please sign up early by sending me an email. Cost is $75, including materials. Workshop will be held at my friend’s studio in Atascadero.
