m p hackmann

Secret sketches

2009-10-09T15:08:00.005-04:00

Where have I been? Is that the secret? No No - I've been invited to participate in a print exchange of 7 printmakers from the UK and 7 from the US... It's always nice when someone else sets down a deadline carved in stone - a sure thing to get many moving, right? The theme is secrets...

As usual you'll find many lists and ideas jotted down in my sketchbook as I'm trying to work out my theme. I also draw - and redraw - and redraw topics and imagery that makes the bells in my head go off. Much of it is familiar imagery I've been drawn to before but with new meaning and a new story... The print is about half way completed. Right now I think the title will be secret seeds... I'm not totally resolved on that - but usually the words circle my head as I'm carving the board - this one was no exception. But hey - it's not finished yet, so I still have time to discover more.

Open Studio this Sunday!

2008-11-05T20:57:00.002-05:00

Open Studio this Sunday from 11 to 3. Please contact me if you need directions. This year I'll be featuring prints, paintings and books primarily produced in the last year. You'll find that my work has taken a few twists and turns since my last open studio. New materials, new marks, new approaches, and new work. Some pieces are as large as my fireplace while other are as small as my cereal bowl. Hope you can make it!

roll baby roll!

2008-09-25T10:41:00.007-04:00

Rolling Rolling rolling - we finished up with the steamroller as promised. Master printmaker Steve Prince led us through the all stages of rolling out the six foot print.

He cut up the board into several pieces and we were each handed two pieces of the puzzle. Then it was time to make your way with the materials. For me it was a bit of sketching in my sketchbook then onto carving and the dremel. That dremel certainly picks up the pace...

Steve was kind enough to ink up all of our plates. He says it's all about sight and sound. And he would know - have you seen his work? Well go back to that link and check it out. It took about 45 minutes to ink the entire image, then it was time to load it up and move it out. He cranked up the steamroller and off he went. In the image Steve and I are holding up the print. We were unfortunately short a few pieces that didn't make it back in time for the main event. Steve was quick to point out that - that's life. We work with what we were are given and rarely do we get to choose the outcome. So True... Make the best of what you have. In the end we were all pleased with the outcome.

More videos posted on you tube. Search Steve Prince - steamroller.

Over six feet pure printing love

2008-09-20T22:00:00.003-04:00

Whhhhhoooooweeee! It's all hands on deck with master printmaker Steve Prince for the weekend. And here's what I made today! This guy is awesome - not only is he talented, approachable, experienced, encouraging and over six feet tall but he has a fantastic personality to top it off. We spent today singing dancing and testing out new approaches with woodcut prints. (I'm not sure if he's getting ready to print or bust a move here) Even after printing for over a decade I find he has inventive and refreshing suggestions - and encourages the use of the dremel. Perfect! Finally - a tool I already have and know how to use...

Tomorrow we break out the steamroller for a collaborative six foot print. If you're in Arlington stop by, it's open to the community and free. Stay tuned...

Book show at the Lee Arts Center

2008-09-12T08:43:00.002-04:00

I'm getting the final touches together for my class and solo show at the Lee Arts Center, opening October 2, 2008. There will be at least twelve books included in the exhibit called Captured. Check out the work in progress!

I'll be hosting a short artist talk October 18th at 3:45. This will give those interested a chance to see the insides of the books and examine the bindings and techniques more closely. Otherwise, while the show is up - please keep you hands to yourself! Any interest in that? Please shoot me an email at melissa@mphackmann.com to RSVP.

just like joe

2008-09-09T20:54:00.002-04:00

When you come by for a studio visit my working space is tidy and organized. But honestly the rest of the time it's more like work in progress. A lot of work in progress. Paint stuff here, book stuff there, paper everywhere. I've been on a book making frenzy getting ready to teach at Portland's Art and Soul conference and for my solo show at the Lee Arts Center.

Just like Joseph Cornell - I find it necessary to go through my inventory periodically. A reminder as to what I have. Who could keep track of all this paper? I spent a rainy afternoon reviewing what I have to work with. This time spent organizing (that I usually consider a complete waste of time) was quite relaxing. Like a basic color exercise. I arranged it by color and found a few gems I'd forgotten about. There're sure to be used, now that I know where they are.

He loved rocko rain or shine

2008-08-15T21:33:00.002-04:00

Here's the other diptych I just sent off to the show at UVA. I know... I know... this is a lot of black for a gal like me. I'm trying to stretch myself. And I love the black, it reminds me of my linocut prints.

He loved rocko rain or shine Each panel is 12” x 24” x 2”. Mixed media acrylic – including: canvas, book collage, graphite, crayon and oil pastel on wood panel. Price $800 for both. They will be hanging at the show starting September 5th. Please contact me at melissa@mphackmann.com if you are interested and I will put you in touch with the curator.

how she taught her garden to sing

2008-08-03T16:32:00.003-04:00

how she taught her garden to sing is one of my newest pieces. Inspired by a a view of my mom's amazing garden and a deadline.

I was invited to participate in a group show next month at the University of Virginia. The criteria was to incorporate the book British and Foreign state papers that was sent to me. Well, that book was produced in 1888. Not terribly archival or in good condition. So after much consideration (playing with the crumbling pages) I decided to rip the cover book cloths off and use them in the paintings as collage elements. For those of you looking close enough - they are the dark blue and brown portions of the painting.

how she taught her garden to sing Each panel is 18” x 28” x 2”. Mixed media acrylic – including: canvas, book collage, graphite, crayon and oil pastel on wood panel. Price $750 each. They will be hanging at the show starting September 5th. Please contact me at melissa@mphackmann.com if you are interested and I will put you in touch with the curator.

While I was anxious to get going on these paintings for the upcoming show they were also a great excuse to test out a few new approaches for my upcoming mixed media class at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts this fall. In addition to carving into the wood with my printmaking tools, I incorporated paint, oil pastel and collage into both the canvas and the wood surface on these... It was fun to work into the wood surface as well as on top of the wood.

This is just a peek at my mom's amazing garden. You should see this thing - it's unbelievable. I think my paintings take a long time to work on until I watch her out there in the heat fighting off the bugs, deer, weeds, moles, an occasional turkey and bunnies in that garden day after day. Sing Garden Sing!

Inside Inspiration – Water Based Media

2008-07-25T17:05:00.002-04:00

I have a few spots left in the one week workshop I'll be teaching this fall (September 21-27) at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. Sign up here! It's a creative mecca tucked in the smoky mountains of Tennesse. The campus is gorgeous and there's plenty of room to lay out your art toys for the week and play. Ahh... the very thought of not having relocate materials (and myself) for a week and focus (aka play) without distractions gets me in the mood to start packing now!

And as a matter of a fact, I have started packing. A lumber crayon here, a wood burner there, here some ink, there some paint, everywhere a graphite stick! I've been experimenting here in my studio on some new ideas and materials that I'll be bringing with me. It's going to be a mark making marathon!

Inside Inspiration – Water Based Media:
Translate memorable experiences into visuals in various ways with the goal of exploring mixed media. This class will include daily demonstrations in drawing, composition, color, collage, and approaches for mixing them together. Experiment with a variety of water based materials and collage in big and small ways. Use class time to experiment with materials and pursue more in-depth individual projects. Later in the week, you will have the option to work in a larger format. Beginner level, even if you don’t draw.

Beehive no longer for sale or rent

2008-06-17T14:52:00.003-04:00

WhoooOOOWEEeee what a month I'm having. I just received a call from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities that they would like to acquire Beehive for sale or rent. This mixed media painting was on display at this years artomatic show.

I love when my artwork is displayed in a public space for many to enjoy. What could be better than sharing my images and marks with many? This is one of my favorites that inspired me to do a series. The commission has acquired four pieces from me, but this is the first painting. The previous purchases were prints.

Beehive for sale or rent: Acrylic, graphite, crayon, canvas, collage, and found materials on paper. 26" x 40"

Welcome to the National Museum of Women in the Arts Melissa

2008-06-05T20:23:00.005-04:00

I just received a letter in the mail from the curator of book arts at the National Museum of Women in the Arts and they were pleased to inform me that after careful consideration the Works of Art Committee is delighted to accept my book, Inside my mind, for inclusion in the museum's collection.

Well I just about burst into flames. I couldn't be happier. I called my mom, studio mates, friends and anyone who would listen (and not ask a book huh?). I think it's scheduled to be on display in 2009.

If this isn't motivation to get in the studio and make more, I don't know what is. When I think back to last summer (just about a year ago to the day) when I made it, I remember I was relaxed, I was experimenting, and I was having fun. I started off in the morning enjoying the process and was not terribly concerned about the outcome. Unusual for me. Lucky for me.

Artomatic top 10 - 2008

2008-06-03T20:48:00.004-04:00

Matt Sesow, painting - yeow!!! This work is full of energy. You can't stand still looking at it. And by the way he's a totally nice relaxed dude.

Cherie Lester, collage - gorgeous collages, I especially love the 12" x 12" neutral one on the bottom right

Novie Trump, ceramics - bringing new life to books, birds and all the possibilities of a neutral pallette. Just gorgeous. And by the way I think she has at least two other shows going on a the same time. Whew!

Sean Madden and Nadia Mercer, installation - they made these birds, bulbs, twigs and chair look like they were meant to be together, like walking into a poem.

Kevin Mellema, drawing - incredible figure drawing. I wonder how many sheets of that huge paper (at least 5 feet tall) did it take before he unleashed that one.

The Howard Gardner School, doodles - a mixed media delight. Pure primative happiness, looks like these green beans know what they are doing. I think some of the most interesting mark making is happening here.

Gail Vollrath, painting - speaking of mark making... incredible marks here too. The line is working hard and working well.

Andrea Roberson, ceramics - these poking parts are in all shapes and sizes, thought provoking, stunning. And would be amazing with some dramatic lighting above my staircase...

Elizabeth Kendall, ceramics - another outstanding configuration that makes me wonder - how did she do that? How could I hang that in my house?

Emery Lewis, painting - these are the kinds of abstractions I can look at time and time again and never get bored. Filled with gutsy textures and gorgeous palettes.

Artomatic 2008

2008-05-16T09:12:00.005-04:00

Here's a shot of my space at Artomatic. This is my second year in the game. Please come check it out, you'll find me on the 8th floor right near the elevator, site location number 8 SE D5. It's a gorgeous open space - with an a amazing view of the capital.

Honestly, I don't know how the heck I pulled it off this year. I was installing right up until the bitter end. And the place was hoping that night (no shocker there), heaps of artists were there in full swing - hammering, painting, stenciling, arranging, re arranging, drawing, electrical work, finishing the artwork, etc. Sheer chaos! You could feel the paint drying. I'm headed there today and hope to get a peek at the rest of the show - will return with my top 10.

Hopeful

2008-05-06T11:29:00.004-04:00

Here is my most recent linocut print. It's a 12" x 12" print on light blue Italian paper with an acrylic painted base titled hopeful. It was hopefully going to be the piece that earned me a permanent spot in the Torpedo factory. But no, not this year.

Last week a friend asked me if my artwork had changed since having a baby. My immediate response was an enthusiastic yes. Now I'm trying to figure out how and why. While it's surely too soon to say... I can see that I'm open to more chaos in my work. Happy chaos. More wind. And lot's of it. I see that what I once thought was too child like and immature can be playful and serious forms and marks. I wonder if some of that influence comes from painting more too. As William Christenberry (who was one heck of a influential instructor on me) used to say - melissa, this sheet is sheer chaos - Well Bill, yes it is. I like it, do you?

Since August

2008-04-24T20:34:00.003-04:00

Where have I been? What have I been doing? Since becoming one little boys mother last august, time has flown by. While enjoying motherhood more than I ever anticipated I've also been busy in the studio, and resumed teaching at the Corcoran this semester. Between those items I'm afraid my blogging got buried. (for shame!) It's been so long I don't know where to begin. I love lists, I'll start there, here's a few items I've covered in the last few months...

A three month cold
Winter hibernation
thirteen daily rounds paddy cakes
buying bigger diapers
dry skin
teaching at the NMWA
First tooth
peek-a-boo
Termites
Home shows
buying bigger diapers
flooding basement
crawling
something about a pigging going to market
flat tire
bubble baths and rubber ducks
printing at the Torpedo Factory
buying bigger diapers
painting
observing my garden wake up
hours of watching Mr. Man discover life around him...

There you have it.

Here's a shot of one of my latest prints titled Since August. It's a 12" x 18" linocut, with an acrylic painted base. I love it.

Opening night at the Civilian Art Projects

2008-02-15T22:08:00.004-05:00

It was opening night at the Civilian Art Project for the 2008 Corcoran Print Portfolio.

First - if you weren't there - get yourself there to see it. It's one of the best print shows I've ever been a part of. This year's theme you won't believe your eyes was a fabulous avenue for creative ideas. There are over 30 prints and almost that many different techniques used. Linocut, silkscreen, etching, and lots of wax this year. It's amazing and the gallery space is gorgeous.

Second - what an outstanding opening reception... I bet at least 200 people walked through the show. Not too shabby for February. I caught up with former and current instructors, students and fellow artists. (dang it felt good to be out!) Even the famous DC collector Philip Barlow was there - I see him at just about every decent opening, so I know I was in the right place. (I wanted to say something clever but couldn't think of anything when I had my chance)

Another observation I made this evening was that everyone was super supportive of my new role as a mom. Hows that baby? Last time I saw most of them I was looking rather round. Being this little man's mom is more amazing than I anticipated. Watching him become more alert is better than any movie I've seen. Observing him discover his fingers and toes makes me look at mine differently too?!?!? I had no idea that juggling motherhood and just about anything else (including making lunch) would call upon my highest skills as a multi-tasker. I've always liked to keep moving, but motherhood mixed with art work and teaching brings it to an extreme level.

Happy six months old Kailen. Mr. Man. Little Man. Zsa Zoo. Sir. Mr Dimples. I'm wild about you. This is not the best picture I have of the two of us but it makes me howl every time I look at it. I think of me holding him - and the camera - and making funny faces at him - and thinking that surely I could capture the perfect moment. And I did.

begone begone begone

2008-02-03T20:57:00.001-05:00

Here she is, with 39 of her closest friends. My latest print begone will be exhibited with about 30 other prints for the 2008 Corcoran print portfolio. This is my fifth year in the show. This years theme is you won't believe your eyes. I can't wait to see how other interpreted it.

be·gone /bɪˈgɔn, -ˈgɒn/ – verb (used without object)
to go away; depart (usually used in the imperative)

The first year I participated, I dropped my print off to Georgia Deal and we looked at the stacks of prints that had been delivered for the show. Hundreds of hand printed prints, it was like unwrapping presents. WOW, I felt so honored to be part of that group and have wanted to participate ever since.

When I produce this many prints it's impossible not to keep learning and fine tuning my process. I seem to improve my craft in one way or another every year. It's a bear to print such a large edition. Carve, carve, carve. Print yellow, yellow, yellow, and repeat. I start with about 50 sheets in hopes to get 35 good consistent prints. (and five proofs) And even then there are a few wiley ones that creep in. I spent the afternoon signing them and dropping them off. Ahhhh! It always feels great to sign them off and kiss them good bye... I know they're going to a good home. I can't wait to see the entire portfolio at the opening.

Print portfolio 2008 in process

2008-01-30T13:40:00.000-05:00

My print for the 2008 Corcoran Print Portfolio is almost complete. As usual I start off my brainstorming process with dozens of sketches. Over and over again I try to work out my ideas, compositions, color studies, etc. I knew my print was about the disappearance of bees. This year's theme is You won't believe your eyes.
This years opening is going to be Friday February 15th, at the Civilian Art Projects. 7pm. It's always a great show and interesting to see how others interpret the theme. Last years show included prints about italian tales and onesies. Who knew? Hope you can make it.

planning for 2008

2008-01-17T13:02:00.000-05:00

Here's a shot of myself with fellow painter and printer Paula Wachsstock. We spent new years eve working on these paintings. She's an amazing artist. I love working next to her, she's incredibly fearless and talented and it keeps me on my toes.

It's a white wonderland out there. The perfect weather to be inside my studio working and planning. Reviewing that list I love so much. (ahh the sheer joy of crossing things off) At this rate I will spend most of January planning for the year.

At the moment I'm preparing for the workshop I'm teaching in March. It's a monotype workshop at the National Museum of Women in the arts. For more information click here. I'm looking forward to it and have been brainstorming some new ideas with my studio mates for the class.

My first show of the year

2008-01-16T20:52:00.000-05:00

Last weekend was the opening of the Connections show at the Printmakers gallery in the Torpedo Factory, Alexandria, VA. It was very well attended and we received some nice publicity in the Alexandria Gazette. Fabulous. While it's not a review in the New York Times it was still nice to see my work reproduced.

Please stop by the gallery and take a peek if you get a chance - the nine studio members each created a piece that's 7" x 49" long. It's a fabulous four hundred and forty one inch show that highlights everyones unique approach to print. I made a linoleum relief print that lays over an acrylic painting (in the photo) that I also adapted to a book. It's going to be an edition of 10... I've only completed one so far... and am wondering why I decided on ten and not two! It's going to take me some time to finish that edition but check out the gallery to see the first one. Titled to and from.

Now on to my next project which is my print for the 2008 Corcoran print portfolio. This years theme is you won't believe your eyes.

Happy New year 2008

2008-01-08T10:17:00.000-05:00

Happy New year 2008. It's been another wild year around here filled to the brim with adventures. I'm amazed at what I was able to accomplish when I look back at what my goals were last January. From attending a two week artist residence at Shakerag to visiting Barcelona and having my artwork reviewed by a museum curator. (and that baby born in August), not to mention the heaps of new artwork I created in 2007. Last year I started off fresh by doing as many pieces as I could in three weeks - it turned out to be about 80. An exhausting but illuminating experience. At that time I realized how motivating that process was and considered doing it every year - now that it's January (and my son is taking a nap) I'm thinking every other year will be fine.

For me it's all about a plan. As my former boss said there's no line like a deadline. I need my loose list of goals to reach for every year to keep me on track. I just sat down last week to brainstormed my artistic goals for the year. It includes applying to another artist residency, developing and teaching new workshops (including one coming up at the National Museum of Women in March and two this fall in Oregon and Tennessee), applying to the Torpedo Factory again, finding a new gallery, a solo show, visiting MoMa, (or another Guggenheim if I can squeeze that in) and of course developing new work. I think this year there will be lots of painting, printing and book making - I'm currently working on a piece that combines all three... Check out the print inc. studio 325 in the Torpedo Factory this month...

Thank you to all my students from this past year. You have challenged me to keep my classes engaging and exciting and I've always come away impressed with how unique your pieces are. Here are a few shots from the workshop I taught last month at Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and National Portraiture Gallery. For more images click here.

Happy New Year - Cheers to your health and happiness!

looking ahead to winter

2007-12-05T22:27:00.000-05:00

Our first snow of the season and now I'm really missing the warm weather. What started as a dusting is now a white out outside my window. brrrr. Here's a shot of my workshop students hard at work last month - which now seems so long ago as I can see the sunshine and leaves on the trees outside the window.

Looks like my sketchbook class at the Corcoran College of Art and Design is on for spring semester and will be titled seven short sessions with the sketchbook. (I hope it makes it into the catalog this time) For those of you who signed up last fall - I thank you and hope that you'll give it another go in the spring. We're going to crank up the volume on this class and dive into the sketchbook from the inside and out, including the book form I submitted to the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Details to come.

I'll also be offering a short workshop at the Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture next Thursday December 13, 2007 at 3pm. This class will take a brief look at their current sketchbook show and then get you moving in your own sketchbook. RSVP to AAAExhibits@si.edu if interested. I bet it won't be looking so sunny and green out the window that day... but we will be thinking warm winter thoughts.

eat - sleep - drink - sketch

2007-11-27T10:14:00.000-05:00

We headed north for the weekend to celebrate turkey day with my family. I remembered to make the "Why we are thankful book" that I've made the past few years. I make it yearly for all those present at the feast to sign and reflect but forgot to snap a picture of it. rats. We were somewhat creative over the weekend between eating, sleeping, drinking, and repeat... Squeezed in a few sketches.

100 days old

2007-11-18T17:04:00.001-05:00

It's been 100 days since the birth of our son. Just heavenly. The fastest 100 days of my life. While my art making has slowed down a bit - my pace has not. I never knew what new mothers went through. Balancing studio hours, teaching, marketing, painting, printing and diaper changing feels like the race that never ends (and don't even think about napping!)

These are some of the images from a sketchbook I've dedicated to Kailen. No it's not a baby book for him, it's mine. Here's a few other thing I've been able to keep moving along in the past few months...

I had a great meeting with the notorious Kyrstyna Wasserman at the National Museum of Women in the Arts to review my hand made books. (Whoowee! That's been on my list of things to do before I die) Currently I have one book under review by their committee. (have my fingers crossed that it will be accepted into the collection)

Instructed sketchbook workshops to several talented students at the Art League in Alexandria and the Lee Arts Center in Arlington.

Invited to teach a week long mixed media workshop at Arrowmont School of Arts and Craft, Tennessee in the fall of 2008! I'm thrilled, Arrowmont was the first artist residency I attended.

And last but not least changed approximately 1.3 million diapers.

I'm ready for a nap.

ultramarine blue or burping?

2007-09-13T16:54:00.000-04:00

Wow it's been over a month since our bouncing baby boy showed up and time is flying by. Here is a picture of the fourth painting in my disappearing bee series. It's titled Fly for Freedom, it's on paper with acrylic paint, collage and canvas. I must say juggling a new baby and ultramarine blue is a challenge. Some days I'm winning the race and others I'm just lucky to cross the finish line. (but having a ball either way)

As you can see I have my assistant close by for a critique at a moments notice. I'm going to be out of my studio, off my feet, and sequestered to sketching for the next few weeks. Stay tuned for my sketchbook entries - I've started a new sketchbook dedicated to you know who.

Meet Kailen

2007-08-15T21:58:00.000-04:00

My biggest creation to date. Introducing my new partner in crime, Kailen Ronald Hackmann. It was nine months of intensive training for the position but he's finally ready to make his debut.

Born on August 8th, 2007, 8 pounds, 12 ounces and 22 inches of pure love. He's our first child, a bundle of happiness and love of our lives.

One week old today. Time flies.

Artist date to National Museum of African Art

2007-08-06T13:50:00.001-04:00

I spent this morning at the National Museum of African Art. I decided today would be the day to finally see the Walt Disney Tishman collection of african art. (You can click on each image to see more details) Once arriving I found that I had forgotten my sketchbook and sketching pens, so used what I had on me - a moleskin book and a uniball pen. Wasn't as bad as I thought, even with the ruled paper. The sights were too amazing to not pull out something to draw in and make notes. I started in the garden - the courtyard between the African museum and the Sackler museum outside the Castle (in Washington DC). Well, it's somehow just bursting with greens and flowers in this heat and overflowing with gorgeous tropical blooms - hard to resist and impossible to ignore before I entered the building. In this first sketch you'll see a lobster claw in full bloom. What a surprise to find as I turned the corner.

I headed into the museum only to be distracted by pieces of the permanent collection, like the patterned tapestries you see to the left, and another exhibition by an African artist named Antonio Ole. His works were full of imagery layered with found objects. A wonderful unexpected find. There were works on paper, wall sculptures created with found objects, and some video. I can't believe I haven't been to this museum before...

Finally I wander into the exhibit that I came for. It's a wonderful collection of 81 pieces that are mostly masks and sculptures. The forms seem just as contemporary today as what you'll find in an art gallery today. Not too shabby for the early 20th century. Many are inspired by nature: animal forms (horns, beaks, wings, snouts), plant forms (seeds. stalks, grasses), sea forms (fish heads, teeth), and combinations of patterns that will make you're head spin. It's primitive bold and fabulous, I'm hoping it will inspire a new mark or form while I paint this afternoon. In this last sketch you can see a wild horned mask, it's even more shocking in person.

the buzz

2007-08-03T18:36:00.000-04:00

Here's another look at my series of paintings about the disappearance of bees. It's acrylic with collage and crayon. Titled Seeds from Science.

Speaking of crayons - I just treated myself to a new suite of colors from Caran D'ashe. These are one of my favorite materials to use and abuse. They are water soluble and smear around with paint and water but also hold that just sketched on look that I can't get enough of.

I was a bit surprised by my over the top reaction of happiness when my new box of crayons arrived yesterday. (you'd think it came with a free case of wine?!?!?) I opened them right up - made myself a palette so I could compare lime green to light green and so on... and so on... (with over 20 new colors I'm sure you can imaging the process) I'm putting them to good use on the next piece in this series, and I wonder how much of a difference it will make. Will I keep grabbing the same colors that I already adore or will I take a risk and try something new? After all part of the reason for doing this series is to try something new.

Beehive for sale or rent

2007-08-01T18:58:00.001-04:00

Yes it's for sale (but not for rent). Beehive for sale or rent is the title of this latest painting. It's acrylic on paper with crayon, canvas and collage, sizing in at 26" 40". I've assigned myself a series of paintings on paper regarding the mysterious disappearance of bees. Where do they go, on summer holiday?

I'm working on a series with a few set parameters (like size, media and theme) and this is number one. Number two is currently getting a touch up (picture to soon follow) and number three is going to get tackled tomorrow afternoon. (it feels like I tackle them when I get started)

Some of the elements I like about this painting is the energy of the marks and forms and the many layers of text, collage and paint. My goal was to integrate more of my sketchbook approach - and here's the key for me - leave the initial mark making in tact. If those marks are so instinctive, immediate, free and satisfying why do I keep covering them up? Cover them up no more I say - there are here to be seen, let them be as wiley and loose as they want to be! I started this tackle approach (keep it loose, fun and more recognizable) while studying with Andy Saftel last month and have continued the approach while currently studying with Beverly Ryan. Hope to keep the momentum going.

Home stretch

2007-07-29T17:18:00.001-04:00

Here's a shot of the cover and inside of a book I completed at an artist residency last month, titled Home Stretch. It's an artist book made of paper and altered with collage, ink, paint, and burlap. I love this little guy, it's a 3.5" square and about 28" when fully extended, chunky and funky. While it's hard to tell from the photo, this book extends like and accordion, all the pages remain connected and the imagery continues on both sides.

My process starts by altering large sheets of paper with a loose theme in mind, then I trim and assemble the pieces according to what fits together best. Next I attach the pages to each other and continue to alter with varied marks until it's no longer calling out for any further action.

early recycling and spanish eye candy

2007-07-25T16:21:00.001-04:00

I've been receiving wonderful feedback from my Cloth Paper Scissors article, and am hoping to share some of this knowledge at my upcoming courses. I have to admit I've been going out of my way to stop at Barnes and Noble and Border's just to peek at it in the store. There's a few spots left in my class at the Art and Soul Mixed Media retreat this October in Portland. Click here for more class information. Additionally, registration is now open for my fall seven-week sketchbook course at the Corcoran College of Art and Design. Click here for more class information. One of the things we'll be doing in both classes is experimenting with combinations of collage and drawing like the image pictured here.

These pages are from the sketchbook I kept in Barcelona earlier this spring. This page includes ink, watercolor, collage and colored pencil. I used a combination of found papers, altered papers, and hand made papers to describe the variety in the color and texture. It's a detail of Parc Guell in the northern part of the city. The architect Antoni Gaudi, based many of his his building forms based on natural forms: plants, seeds, pods, sea creatures, etc. Because he included these organic shapes within his structures, and flat tiles were not going to get the job done, he was forced to be one of the first to recycle. This structure is literally curved and covered from top to bottom with bits of fabulously colorful spanish tile. Eye Candy.

My new additions added to the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities collection

2007-07-19T10:45:00.001-04:00

I've just had three prints acquired by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. And I'm thrilled! After the Artomatic show wrapped up in the spring I received a letter from the commission requesting an application for their art bank collection. They accepted all three prints. I'm looking forward to finding out more details about where they will be placed. Artwork in the art bank collection is loaned to other government agencies in DC and on display in public areas. Perfect! I can't ask for more than having the work displayed for many to see and enjoy.

The series of prints they selected are monotypes with loads of collage integrated into the surface. The one pictured here is titled Awake.

While it's 3 less prints for me to display at the Torpedo Factory in the Printmakers inc. studio I'm happy to make more. Currently, the show in our studio highlights another monotype series I created, along with a group of artwork by Torpedo Factory artists who work in mediums other than print. (painting, sculpture, etc.) The Artists choose Artists show opens Sunday, July 29th, from 3-5, hope you can join us.

Sketch as you go!

2007-07-05T21:20:00.001-04:00

My long awaited article on keeping a sketchbook while you travel is now out in the July August, volume 13, issue of Cloth Paper Scissors! I've got three spreads starting on page 56 (not that I have it memorized or anything). The article features my sketchbooks from France and Italy, along with an article and tips on how to get started and recommended materials.

Check it out!!! This is my first article but not my last. You can click here to view the current issue, and link to the table of contents, but will need to get to a bookstore to view the real thing.

I'd especially like to thank Lesley Riley. This fellow collage book artist guru - was nice enough to say yes when I called her out of the blue over a year ago and asked if she would mind taking a peek at my sketchbooks and giving me some feedback. Often artists are hesitant to share information, or offer suggestions, but not this hip chic. My, my, how a little positive reinforcement can go such a long way. Merci Lesley.

If you'd like to find out more about my sketchbooks, artwork, or upcoming classes please go to my web site at mphackmann.com. I'll be posting more books and paintings in the next few months as I get ready to teach at the Art and Soul retreat this October in Portland, Oregon.

books - and the big bold and birdy painting

2007-07-03T19:10:00.002-04:00

Collaborate - exchange - and share - that's what we did at Shakerag. Here try this. Wanna swap collage pieces? Wanna see how I made this? Can I borrow a bone folder?

Here we're in a book class with Dolph Smith, selecting book signatures created by our classmates. We were instructed not to select our own work, then we were asked to describe what what we liked about the pieces we selected. The powerful part of this exercise is that as the creator of the pieces we were asked to be silent and soak in the feedback on how the work was received not share how it was produced, or comment. (difficult for me, as you can imaging) Very enlightening. It showed me that everything is open to endless interpretation, regardless of how straight forward I think it is.

Now onto some painting.... My quest was to include forms that one could identify into my work. This should be a reasonable request. But as you'll see (as I post more work from the week) I'm full of abstract forms. I just can't help myself once I get rolling with the color and texture party. This piece is 42" x 42". Why not say it big?

Little bird
Mom watches you from egg to flight.

While many assumed this was about moi, it's about my mom. Yes she is a closet ornithologist and stalks those little birds (quite carefully of course) the moment the nest shows any signs of activity. I wonder how many nests she's had this year? Even I find it to be endless fascination too.

It's big - it's bold - it's birdy - I love it. While it's difficult to see in this shot there are many hidden, smaller and recognizable forms sprinkled throughout. Detail to come.

shakerag withdrawl

2007-06-27T15:28:00.001-04:00

It's hotter than the deep south here in Arlington today... Here's a shot of the reservoir at Shakerag - yes these clean cool waters was a mere 5 minute walk from my studio and 8 minute walk from my room. By the looks of the people who live close by and swim often, I think it's the fountain of youth. A quick dip and swim to the end and back was welcomed treat anytime of day. I'm not sure I've ever swam through lily pads before. Since I've been back I've been in search of water to swim, no such luck... still looking, I found a pool - no lily pads.

The other thing I really miss from the last two weeks was having studio space outside my house. Pure heaven - while we were all packed into a tight space, we were happy to be there. Here's a shot of my paintings in progress the second week - as you can see I've taken over the whole corner and counter. It's nice to walk into a space with nothing but works in progress, ideas, lack of, and materials. And of course sharing it with 15 other inspired artists around the clock was an added bonus. A room full of energy.

It was especially interesting to see how we all took off in different directions given the same initial suggestions. Even the pieces I produced seemed diverse in their approach and outcome. I love that. This was a great place and time to take risks and experiment with new ideas and materials.

Studio Immersion on the Mountain

2007-06-26T18:17:00.000-04:00

Who knew I'd find a slice of heaven tucked away in Tennessee? This was my second visit to the volunteer state. Last year I attended an artist residency at Arrowmont in Gatlinburg (right outside of Dollywood) and this year was a 2 week stay at Shakerag. It's a new artist residency program and it's unbelievably organized, well run and attended. It's a gorgeous intimate campus tucked in the mountains, and sprinkled with cutting edge sculptures. I can't say enough good things about it, it's the perfect setting for an art think tank.

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to study with both Dolph Smith (me pictured with him) and Andy Saftel (he pictured with his hard working painting palette, giving a demo on plaster). Two masters in their field. Dolph is known for his book sculptures and Andy for is layered narrative paintings and sculptures. What a treat to have a week with each of these talented artists. I've been looking forward to this for almost a year.

I spent about 9-12 hours a day in the studio picking up every morsel of wisdom I could from these two. Each class had about 16 talented students, ready to jump in like myself. It amazing how motivated I can be when in an atmosphere surrounded by fellow artists and my art supplies, a studio, no cooking, no to do list, and no distractions (other than for a dip in the local reservoir). If only I could keep up this prolific pace at home... I made 2.5 books and started 11 paintings. WHEW! The other fantastic aspect of working with Dolph and Andy is that in addition to sharing technical techniques they are both willing to share their process for creating and their journey as an artist. I think their insights on these aspects are more helpful when I'm home in my studio and making a go at it alone.

from one adventure to the next...

2007-06-08T11:45:00.001-04:00

Here's a sketchbook entry from our drive from Barcelona to Bilbao. Since we underestimated the drive (by 4 hours) I had plenty of time to work on it in the car... Plenty. Page includes a map (which proved to be worthless, so I was happy to rip it up) and brochure collaged in, pen and colored pencil. I love this page - very layered, unplanned, loose, and busy. A nice visual feast in my sketchbook.

I'm off on another adventure today - headed to Shakerag to study book making with Dolph Smith and painting with Andy Saftel. Shakerag is located in Tennessee near the Sewanee river (really, it is) - hopefully close to the smokey mountains so it's not so sticky... My bags are packed - I have more art supplies than clothes in my bag... and hopefully when I return there will be more art and less supplies.

Espana on my mind

2007-05-31T20:50:00.001-04:00

I'm still recovering from our holiday in Spain — sleeping in late - cafe con leche and croissant du chocolat for breakfast, then torta of egg and mixed veggies from the Mercat la Boqueria... Then off to a fabulous artistic destination just about every morning... Not to mention where are all those tapas bars when I need a snack in the afternoon?

Here we are in Bilao. We decided to make a side trip while we were there and the Guggenheim was every bit as fantastic as I could have imagined... We even saw Jeff Koons Puppy sculpture in full bloom out front of the museum. Pure delight, it was my contemporary art education come to life.

I'm still unpacking my bags...

Back from Barcelona!

2007-05-22T15:20:00.000-04:00

Here's a peek at Chad and I on the rooftop at Casa Mila last week in Barcelona. It was a week of great weather, sight seeing, people watching, tapas and plenty to fill my sketchbook with. Highlights for me included seeing the structures by Antoni Gaudi. I just can't get enough of his slithering shapes color palette and forms... Mostly based on nature as I discovered. I also found out he was one of the first artists to recycle, using all those bits of broken spanish mosaic shards in his work to achieve those colorful curved figures and walls.

I was able to fill my sketchbook (even with one less day there thanks to usair) and am continuing to add a couple things like color and collage to finish off a few of the pages. I have 2 zip lock bags full of cards, labels, metro cards, brochures, hand written notes of restaurant recommendations, directions, contact information, maps, packaging and random spanish scraps that need to find their way into my book. And I'm sure I'll find another surprise or two as I unpack my suitcase.

judge this book by it's cover

2007-05-10T16:07:00.000-04:00

Next time I make a blog entry I hope this book will be filled with sketches and ideas to share from my trip to Barcelona.

I made this book specifically for the trip. Having been to Barcelona many years ago - I referred to my sketches and books while I was altering the cover. That city feels layered in color, shape and energy bursting from the seams and I wanted the cover of this book to feel that way too. I searched for the right paper for weeks before I realized that altering it myself was the only way to go. I guess there's no paper out there that matches my enthusiasm for an upcoming adventure... Like a piece of paper bought off the shelf could ever do that, right?

This book is bound with a 4 needle coptic stitch. Altered paper on the cover was created using caran d'ash crayons and colored pencil. The body signatures on the inside are a combination of watercolor, printmaking and handmade rice paper.

Orange crush

2007-05-08T21:34:00.000-04:00

Here's my latest painting - full of light, sunshine and warmth, sprinkled with a few areas of unexpected interest. The spring semester at the Corcoran has come to a close and I'm thinking about what the next few months are going to bring. How about some sunshine?

For now, I'll continue my hunt for inspiration, keep working on the paintings and collages that I've started and search for a place to hang and paint large canvases. And hopefully find a few fellow artists in the process. I'm still fine tuning my summer top 10 list.

My solo show at the Spectrum Gallery in Rosslyn, VA is right around the corner, I hope to have dates and times to pass along soon. The show will consist of large scale acrylic paintings, and collages on canvas and wood panels.

progress on my process

2007-05-01T17:41:00.000-04:00

Here's a piece I worked on last week and it's progression. It started with a pencil, ink, conte crayon and charcole drawing. From there I applied layers of transparent paint and tape to block out area in the drawing that I wanted to maintain. And the last step was adding a selective coat of opaque paint (pink?!??!) and removing the tape. (which is also a surprise in addition to the choice of pink) As pointed out by a friend, this is clearly not my usual palette.

It's back to enjoying the process I guess. While few fellow painters and viewers were wild about my new palette departure, I was thrilled with the new marks and textures I had created. I wonder where they'll turn up next? By taping off and hiding areas of the painting during the process my decisions on where to paint next became more intuitive and less planned. Felt great! Every experiment adds new knowledge to the next piece. Often I find the most challenging part is just starting a new piece (the second hardest would be finishing a piece). I'll try this approach again.

Artomatic top 10

2007-04-24T17:34:00.000-04:00

If you haven't been yet, seek out the new Artomatic show in Crystal City, Virginia. It's overflowing with this areas local artists. Here's a shot of my exhibition space (shared with fellow artist Paula Wachsstock). Both of our work is scattered throughout the walls in room 6C02 in the red section on the 6th floor.

I've continued to receive great feedback based on the review Ellyn Weiss wrote. Here's the link to the review.

Last week I had a chance to check out the rest of the show in detail. It was a challenge to see the artwork last time I was there, along with the other 3900 people who attended the opening night reception. I picked out the artists who's work I found to be outstanding and most inspiring. (I'll let you know if I'm selected to lead an artist tour) This list is not in any paticular order. Here's my top 10 artomatic picks:

Veronica Szalus - newsprint in transition is an incredible floating use of paper

Novie Trump - reliquaries to my eye the most outstanding work on the 8th floor

Kristina Bilonick - time space memory installation reminds me of my Nanny's home in upstate New York

Debra Diamon - gorgeous intuitive marks and string on hand made paper

Ellyn Weiss - 12 feet of art was created on sight! Dang this woman has talent...

Sondra Arkin - these encaustic paintings will send you spinning

Tim Tate - I know everyone loves his work, there's a reason

Elizabeth Morisette - digest the stunning vessel installation is unlike anything else in the show

Brian Murphy - huge frames filled with pieces of sketches, it's like a sketchbook blown apart (of course I'd love that)

Rebecca Gordon - ants installation she loves ants and now I do too

You can find out more about them on www.artomatic.org

two for today

2007-04-17T18:16:00.000-04:00

Here's a diptych painting I worked on this morning. Each canvas is 40"x 57". I like working on two at a time so that I'm not tempted to put everything and the kitchen sink into one piece. For some reason I find it easier to keep moving and make decisions when I know there's a lot of canvas to cover and more that one shot at it. No undo command in this process.

I think these painting are almost finished - hard to tell for certain until they're stretched and hung. I hope to have them completed in time for my solo show in June at the Spectrum gallery in Rosslyn, Virginia. More to come on the painting and the show.

Artomatic opening

2007-04-16T18:03:00.000-04:00

Artomatic opened last Friday night. I was lucky enough to attend the opening with my husband and parents and ran into lots of friends and fellow artists. Thank you for coming. It was a packed event with more art that you could soak in one evening, drinks and live music. It's open until May 20th. Check it out!!!

ColorField Remix, a series of events and exhibits celebrating color field painting and the Washington Color School, kicks off this month at venues across the metropolitan area, and Artomatic has joined in the fun and selected it's own artists who have captured that spirit to be the Washington Color School Remix tour. The group of 13 artists was selected by artist - curator Ellyn Weiss and I made the list. Now if you don't know Ellyn's work please click on the link and take a peek, this woman adores color like I do. I just can't get enough. To be selected by her is a thrill. My work is on the 6th floor in space Red 6C02. See the front reception for more information on Ellyn's color remix picks and a map of the artwork.

little red dot

2007-04-08T18:30:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday I attended the opening for the Mid Atlantic hand pulled print show at the Ellipse center in Arlington. As they announced awards for the exhibit I found out this piece was selected and purchased by the Cultural Affairs division of Arlington County. What a surprise! I spotted the little red dot immediately but was thrilled to find it will hang in a public space for many to see and enjoy!

I created this piece last summer while studying at Penland School of Art and Craft in North Carolina. It's and etching titled Saturday morning.

My final four

2007-04-03T17:52:00.000-04:00

Here's a peek at the book I finished last weekend and my proud display of the finished product with the guru himself Dan Essig. He is quite the master of book arts.

While I've been focused more on painting the last few months, I have always loved book arts. It's a sketchbooks best friend you know. It's a form of functional sculpture. To make one requires a blend of creativity, craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a willingness to rip it out as needed. (kinda like knitting?!??!) I love the paper, have I mentioned I love the paper? It gives me a good reason to get more, I mean use some of the heaping stash that I already have. I love the endless combinations of thread, wood, paper and alternative materials. I see it as a well dressed man - great suit, great tie, great shirt, shoes, belt you get the point - every detail adds to the overall impression. This week my Corcoran sketchbook class will get started on it's first book.

Here's my final four. Wonder which one will get filled first?

Weekend works

2007-04-01T17:51:00.000-04:00

I spent the weekend studying bookmaking with Daniel Essig. Over the course of three days we worked on two book forms that are variations of the ethiopian coptic stitch. We worked with papyrus, cotton papers, fossils, waxed linen thread, bone folders, rules, exacto knives, metal squares, PVA glue, needles, wood, hand drills, a drill press, sand paper, milk paint, a hammer, rulers, pencils, his hand made awls, and I'm sure I'm forgetting something.

Here's a shot of Dan giving us a demonstration. I came away with 4 beautiful books. Two bound with papyrus covers adorn with fossils and two finished off with layered and distressed wood covers and many feet of thread.

Dan focuses on the book form itself, and most of his books are collectors items and left blank. For shame! Now here's the real test for me - I'd just love to turn this into my next sketchbook and can't wait to get in there and put these pages to work. But, I must admit the books themselves are so beautiful that they're a bit intimidating to work on! We'll both be teaching at the art and soul mixed media retreat this fall in Portland Oregon. I hope to have my book started by then, I'll let you know in October.

spring's influence

2007-03-29T11:46:00.000-04:00

A work in progress here in the studio... Now that the weather's changing and the days are longer I can't keep my hands off all that wild color. Last week I even went out and bought a tube of magenta?!?!?

The more I paint the more I learn, every piece is a step closer to the next one. I always seem to look back at my sketchbooks for inspiration. Even if it's just the starting point. The marks in this painting look like they could have come directly out of my sketchbook. This month's issue of Cloth Paper Scissors has a few articles on keeping a sketchbook. Check it out, it's great inspiration from a few different perspectives. Next month I'm scheduled to have images of my sketchbooks and an article published in the May/June issue. More to come on that once it hits the newsstands.

My article dives deeper into why I keep a sketchbook and the different approaches I employ. Many of these points are covered in my sketchbook class that I'm currently teaching at the Corcoran this semester. That class kicked off last week with a very talented group of new students. I can't wait to see what they'll create this semester. I also lead a mini book workshop last Monday at the Art League in Alexandria - I always learn something new from my students and am amazed at what they come up with in such a short amount of time. It's a sketch-book-think-tank!

keep moving

2007-03-24T13:47:00.000-04:00

Here's another larger scale painting I've been working on the past few weeks - it's 40" x 52". Whooooeeee. I can't wait to get it stretched and see what it looks like. My plan is to show it at the upcoming artomatic show this spring in crystal city opening April 13th. And to do another three or four of this size before spring is through.

I feel like I continue to fine tune my process with every new piece. Starting with a spine of an idea and being ready to abandon it the minute I need to (sometimes within the first 15 minutes). I've also learned that for this medium I need to keep moving. I stop to look and see what's happening from a distance, but the moment I start to really slow down and noodle around I know it's time to put it aside and start another one. At least that's what I think this week...

Bigger is better

2007-03-21T13:58:00.000-04:00

Here's a painting I finished up last week. Little by little my paintings are getting larger. It feels good to have the room to spread out on that page and make larger marks. Although I'm finding that requires a heck of a lot more paint and bigger brushes. I'm up to the challenge, I used a house painting brush from home depot on this one.

I experimented with a technique called scrafitto which essentially is scratching out the thick wet paint before it has a chance to dry. You can see it here in the dark brown areas. I love the texture it leaves behind so I took a whack at another one. Still in progress. I could test out this approach for weeks. This painting was inspired by one of my favorite cities Barcelona, Spain. Vibrant colors, endless energy and quirky. I wonder when I'll get back there...

Mod Squad

2007-03-15T18:02:00.000-04:00

Last night my husband and I hit the faculty opening reception for the new Modernism show at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. It was a house full of see and be seen people all decked out in their mod gear - white boots, huge plastic jewelry, fabulous fashion and they served fondue and rice crispy treats?!?!? The bar was stocked with Baily's Irish cream out of cool glasses. The entrance was painted bright red with a hot car in the center. It was fun fun fun and good chance to see some of the faculty and students that I so admire.

I spent more time checking out the scene than the show, I admit - but I know I'll go back and see it again. What I did see of the exhibit included a room lined with metal panels to show off the architecture concepts, a kitchen recreated, cups, paintings, jewelry, clothing, and a wall filled with chairs. It's an amazing group of modern objects that shaped our culture. After seeing what was created in the 20' and 30's, I feel like we've gone backwards (reverting to more traditional trends) instead of moving forward (other than Ikea). Where are my gogo boots? Check out this show - it's sensational.

What will happen next?

2007-03-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

Here's another experimental painting I worked on recently. It started off as three images of one still life on one sheet of paper - then that image was cut up taped back together in a new orientation and painted over again. It was a good exercise to loosen up - I'm not sure what will happen to it next... Collage?

It wasn't my year to be welcomed with open arms into the Torpedo Factory. Maybe next year. I heard they only accepted 5 new residents this year (or maybe they're just telling me that to make me feel better?!?!?) Either way - I'm reminded that failure is an important part of the road to learning and success. Time to move on to the next application.

Painting the winter away

2007-03-07T13:39:00.000-05:00

When is winter going to end?!?!? While the view outside my window is void of color my paintings are not! As a matter of fact I think I may be over compensating. Here's a painting I finished today. The base layer was created using a random assortment of collage glued down to paper and then applying acrylic paint over it. I love this one, it was loose, fun and carefree to create, the way it should be. I hope to do a series based on this approach, it felt so good this time that I want to explore what else is out there. Beverly Ryan introduced me to a new tool that I used on this piece, a line brush. Who knew there was a brush I had overlooked to add to my tool box? It's a wonderful little long haired brush that holds lots of paint and makes a nice long organic line. It was just the thing I needed on this painting. Thank you Beverly!

Monday I submitted a small sample of my artwork to the Torpedo Factory for review, I believe the jury has already made their decisions but I won't get the final word until tomorrow afternoon. My fingers and toes are crossed. It would be dreamy to have a studio there someday. I love the idea of being surrounded by so many talented people and having a dedicated place to create among them. An ideal blend of solitude and brainstorming buddies. Not to mention an on location art supply store and many restaurants walking distance to choose from. But I have to get in first...

process process process

2007-02-22T13:48:00.000-05:00

This is a shot of a current piece I have in process. I feel like everything I'm working on at the moment is in process. Both my painting and collage instructors encourage me to keep my work process focused (taking risks and learning new things) not focused on the final piece (being cautious and careful that people including myself will like it). While I know I'll learn more that way, and I've just about filled my sketchbook with notes and ideas about this process, I still want a finished piece to hang on my wall, to see and share. I can't help myself.

This piece is a modular approach to a composite composition (or you could say it's a complex group of ideas and symbols divided into many different pieces of boards - same thing). I'm trying to be more loose, fluid, and care free. How am I doing? The more I think about being looser the tighter I get! I have more notes and sketches on this project than I have marks on the actual piece. I think that's part of the reason I love working in my sketchbook, I can be wild and loose and workout my ideas freely - skip the ones that stink and refer back to the ones I like. (and I'll dive deeper into that subject once my sketchbook class gets started)

Next week I'll be gathering my favorite pieces together to submit to the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria Virginia. While it's competitive to get accepted as well as find a studio to work in, I'm hoping to be selected as a resident. I was lucky enough to meet with Kathy Beynette and Sheep Jones (2 of my favorite artists in the studio) this morning to get their opinions on my work. They both agreed after looking at everything (prints, paintings, collage, assemblage, and books) that I should submit my prints. It was a boost to get such positive feedback from two stellar artists and have their reaction to the work echo mine. It will be another process for me to get my application ready...

True love?

2007-02-15T13:48:00.000-05:00

Recently while in class we were asked to state why we make art. A fellow classmate responded that she loves art supplies and that her collection is so vast that she'd like to learn how to put them to use. There is definitely a part of me that can relate to that... A friend pointed out how much I love art making materials. It's true. Usually I don't leave the art supply store until my blood sugar has dropped and forced me out.

Last week was my sixth and final visit to the Joseph Cornell show at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Every time I visit I learn something new about his work. The show is filled with heaps of goodies. Boxes are labeled with: corks, clear plastic boxes, mouse material, coral, springs, marbles, glasses, balls, flotsam and jetsam, and so on. What do I have? What do I need? That's the thing - my visionary of an instructor Katie Dell Kaufman reminds me that I already have everything I need. So true!!! So why do I keep going to the art supply store? And looking, looking, looking... The place I've been looking lately is my sketchbook.

When Mr. Cornell started gathering these item he was interested in collecting - as he organized and reorganized his collection he discovered inspiration and relationships between the items. He found stories, metaphors, and a doorway into his imagination. The materials continue challenge and intrigue me, especially when incorporating collage. I'm always feeling my way around the materials and mediums I have in my studio - or junk shop - or the scraps I find on Columbia Pike (always interesting stuff to be found there). This week I'm starting a new project that will have modular pieces and based on discovery - I wonder what I'll find along the way?

I'm going to need more paint.

2007-02-08T18:08:00.000-05:00

I started a new painting class last week with Tom Green. He's approachable, helpful and a heck of a painter. Much of his work is about symbols and graphic interpretations which I am drawn towards. Knowing that I wanted to work larger I started off with the biggest canvas I had - 16" x 20"(pictured here). Well - it only took about 2 minutes to see I had the smallest canvas in the class. The good news is that regardless of it's size I am happy with the outcome. I'm warming up. This group must go through paint by the gallon. I love the idea of working larger than me so I went out and bought a roll of canvas! Whew, no excuse not to work larger now... I just hope I'll use it up while I'm still on earth. The piece I just started is about 35"x40", stay tuned it might take me a while to finish.

It's Story Time

2007-02-05T19:16:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow night is the opening reception for Story Time.

This is the 22nd annual Corcoran College of Art + Design Print Portfolio and will be on view February 1 - 10, 2007 at the Kathleen Ewing Gallery. The portfolio contains the work of faculty and students from the BFA and Continuing Education programs. Thirty-one artists are represented in this year’s exhibition with work ranging from traditional intaglio and relief, to more experimental forms, including digital screen printing, photo-etching and lithography, to mixed media techniques.

We'll be at the Kathleen Ewing Gallery (1609 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20009) Tuesday, February 6, from 6pm - 8pm. It's alway a great show. I love seeing all the different interpretations on the theme, and most of the artists will be there which makes for a great party. Hope you can come by.

Artists: Andrew Hendricks, Angela Rich, Bethany Hansen, Caitlin Sherwood, Carolee Jakes, Carolyn Hartmann, Craig P. Webb, Dennis O'Neil, Emma Riley, Eric Klug, Evan Jensen, Georgia Deal, Hedieh Ilchi, Jordana Eisen, Kate Woodliff, Katie Brownell, Kerry McAleer-Keeler, Lisa Grabenstetter, Lynn Sures, M. Alexander Gray, Manuel Navarrete, Melissa P. Hackmann, Paul Jeffreys, Paula Wachsstock, Pepa Leon, Pierrette Montone Richard Lindsey, Sung Hong, Tracey Cullen, Tracy Pilzer, William R. Tuthill

Gallery info:
Kathleen Ewing Gallery
1609 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20009
202.328.0955 - www.kathleenewinggallery.com
Tuesday - Saturday 12 - 6, and by appointment

What will be next?

2007-02-03T16:28:00.000-05:00

Now that my three week art making boot camp session is completed I've been assessing what I've created. While you can't tell from this photo, I'm dividing the artwork into piles based on how much I liked the outcome and how much I enjoyed the process of that specific piece. I'm also investigating the artworks that just couldn't get to any stage of satisfaction - and if I changed one color or one mark - would it make a difference? My memory is already getting a little fuzzy. My next step is to make a list describing what types of work I am going to approach next - or rather what elements of design and themes will get pulled into my next collages, prints and painting. This guideline should provide a focus and still be open to play and possibilities.

Last week I kicked off the spring semester at the Corcoran. I'm studying painting and collage this semester. My sketchbook class will be starting March 22nd. For more information on Discover-Record-Sketch: A Sketchbook Development course and registration information check out the Corcoran College of art + design web site. My course is listed under the continuing education drawing section. This 7 week course will meet on Thursday's and is going to be a lot of fun. We'll be making a few books out of alternative materials, exploring the benefits of keeping a sketchbook, and discussing how to get started so that you can make it a habit.

Mission accomplished

2007-01-27T09:48:00.000-05:00

After going through three rolls of paper towels, several PBJ's, one pound of beeswax, a roll of freezer paper, who knows how much acrylic paint, a roll of parchment paper, a dozen bags of microwave popcorn, a half liter of matte medium, 18 apples, two bottles of gesso, three vacume bags, and a case of diet coke — I survived the three weeks and accomplished what I set out to do. Using what I already had in my studio, (other than that one trip for more matte medium) I spent this time developing my mark making, pictograms, and experimenting with new subject matter, palettes, formats, and materials. Once I've enjoyed a fews days out of the studio and away from the heaps of new artwork, I plan to assess what happened. After being so immersed in the process it's difficult to see the woods through the trees. Within the 80 or so works I completed I'll be looking for seeds of potential new projects to explore in the next year.

Here's a shot from the last day. This book is about one inch tall. I've incorporated brass brads, sea glass, wood, linen thread, ink, and paper.

Day 21

2007-01-25T09:58:00.000-05:00

Here's a peek at number 75 and 76 that I worked on yesterday. I've repainted that box four times in the last three weeks and yesterday I covered it with paper and filled it with branches and waxed rice paper. I think Joseph Cornell would have liked it (and then he would have added 2 birds and a compass). The second piece was inspired by Annette Messager - I have gathered at least 4 different examples of her work as inspiration. The more I see the more I like.

I vowed to create as much artwork as I could in the last three weeks and today's the last day. I'm not sure if I'll use up all the extra paper I've already cut down, or paint, or wax, or sew, or... I just don't know. But I'll be doing as many as possible between now and midnight (hopefully before then). I'm on my way up to the studio to work it out now. I plan to be celebrating tomorrow!

the last 48 hours...

2007-01-23T17:58:00.000-05:00

Here are a few projects from over the weekend. More painterly collage and another book. I love this book, the spine is a piece of rusty old metal I found on the street. I've had it for months and always thought it resembled a pair of glasses. But Sunday was different, I saw a spine of a book. I'm sure it's much happier as a spine than spectacles, how couldn't it be? Definitely more interesting. The body of the book contains my hand made paper, burlap, mesh, and fabric.

Only have 2 days left to go... What's my goal? As Bill Christenberry used to say in class while reviewing our work - make me excited. It's a simple request. I hope the next two days are full of that.

fiber frenzy

2007-01-21T15:31:00.000-05:00

Now I've really jumped into new territory. Yesterday's goal was to not touch paint. Don't get me wrong I love the stuff, but if I mix my favorite neutral ground (naples yellow, matte medium and gesso) one more time I might loose my mind. I emptied out my box of random fabrics and materials — here's the scene of the crime.

Yesterday morning I noticed my tired couch pillows and thought when this project is finished I need to sew myself some new covers. It's that time of year when I want my surroundings refreshed. And when I think back I tend to have a sewing project in the winter, this must be that yearly itch coming on. I gathered what I could find around my studio and started weaving and sewing. I was intrigued by the twigs I had collected on my walks. I'm not sure what to call this — a wall sculpture?

Next I attacked a vessel using the random stitch. Yes really it's called that, I was introduced to the stitch last summer while I was studying at Haystack School of Mountain Crafts. I asked my roommate (who was in the textiles class) if she would teach me the stitch and she looked at me and said - uh, I think you already know it. Who knew? This vessel was constructed with vaccum bags, cardboard, and lace. It's so bizzare, I love it. My artist friend Lesley Riley sews all kinds of fun stuff including mica, that's next on my list to try as soon as I get my hands on some.

I wonder what will happen tomorrow?

One week to go

2007-01-19T17:43:00.000-05:00

It's been two days of mark making madness around here. I spent yesterday morning testing over 35 different ways to make varied marks on paper. I tried using a; branch, brush, spatula, ruling pen, string, celophane, palette knife, and something called a walnut stick. I then tried scratching, rubbing, stenciling, stamping, drawing, painting, and burning with both my right and left hand to see what I would get. I'm looking for thick, medium, thin, delicate, precise, primitive and organic lines. I ended up liking my test sheet shown here better than any of the other pieces I did yesterday.

And well that wasn't enough to scratch my itch on this one so I spent the day giving it another go. Surprisingly to me I found that my symbol making and complex compositions seemed to make it's way to the paper more frequently. While I'm not focusing my attention to those aspects, they creep into my work. Of course when I want them there they've run for cover and joined the witness protection plan.

My final mark making attempt today was a small triptych. I looked at Basquait for inspiration. Now he was one wild mark maker. I wonder what he used other than a brush.

I've been making as much art as I can for the last two weeks and I've got seven days left to rock out with my art supplies. Not that I won't be rocking out afterwards, but not at this pace. For instance I might even go to a museum and get a haircut next week.

40 works later I try something new

2007-01-18T18:02:00.000-05:00

It only took me 40 pieces to finally break out into something new. What's the rush? Over the weekend I loosened up a tad to focus on different materials. Less paint - more collage - wax - and three dimensional stuff. I wasn't able to roll out as many as usual, but the few I worked on felt more resolved. This first piece is rice paper and pods, seeds, drawings, string, and paint waxed together. I envision it as a study for a larger window piece. It's best when viewed with loads of light behind it.

Once I had the wax melted and ready to go I couldn't stop. There are 2 of these and a handful of branches waxed with flag like wings all over my studio now. Here I ditched the rice paper and went straight for the wax. In order to create a mold to pour the wax into, I had to break a frame (it was totally worth it). I would like to try it again and leave holes in it. I wonder if it will melt in the summer heat...

While I was off getting wild with wax last weekend I also attacked this book form. The cover is an altered cigar box. The body is an accordion fold covered with with graphite, gesso, acrylic, and caran d'ash crayons. The content is figure drawings mixed with pictograms. Feels like the cover is still searching for a unique object, I'm still searching for what that may be.

Day 8

2007-01-12T09:58:00.000-05:00

Here is number 23 and 24 that I completed a couple days ago. The first one is layered figure drawings. I'm really missing that life drawing class from last semester more than I realized. It's invigorating to work so large and loose. No visitors have dropped by yet to draw. Well there was one but I didn't start fast enough and then they were gone. Rats. However my husband is back in town and he will be my next victim, I mean model.

This second image is about discovering symbols. Pictograms. The logo maker in me eats this right up. I've been looking at Adolph Gottleib a lot. I like the idea of these quirky images all playing together. I spent hours working on the background - might have been a wasted effort as far as the product is concerned. There's at least 4 or 5 layers of paint, collage, and type hidden in there.

As I journal every night and review the the highlights and lowlights of the day, I remind myself that the product is not the goal here. It's the process. I even went as far as to look up what process really meant. Process: series of changes in developing — to substitute — to exchange. The goal is to take risks and learn something.

Today is a new day and I'll start with number 32, leaving hesitation and preconceived ideas about what I think won't work at the door.

Sweet 16

2007-01-08T20:57:00.000-05:00

I reached number 16 this afternoon. But this piece is actually number 7. It's one of my favs so far. I love the developed background layers - somewhat hidden text - and eyeballs. YUMMY. While I'm here under house arrest I've decided that all those who drop by will be requested to sit for a quick sketch. I could use a model other than the one in the mirror.

new year - new art at work

2007-01-07T21:31:00.000-05:00

To kick off the creative juices for 2007 I've started a new project. It's a self-imposed, house-arrest, boot-camp, art-making kinda thing. My goal is to create as much new work possible in a 3 week time frame. It must all be one of a kind and new in it's approach. No usual tricks allowed. To begin the process I did some soul searching and image gathering. I'm using these lists, thoughts, ideas and images as a reference and a launching point as needed.

I started Friday. Yesterday I thought this won't be so bad - as a matter of a fact maybe it will be too easy for me and I won't learn enough. Today I think - what the heck am I going to start tomorrow? It's intense, I'm rinsing out my water bucket at least 5 times a day. I'm psyched to break for lunch. By 8pm I'm beat. I have a a few hunches on what I'll do tomorrow - but I'm feeling the burn - if you know what I mean... And I'm now wondering how many more pieces of paper I'm going to go through, not that I mind but it's almost all painting work at this point (and some collage) - I need to branch out... I've got time...

Here's a shot of the studio looking so ever clean when I started. Typical me, I can't really start until my drawing table is completely clear and studio is tidy (tidy for me that is). Even in college, I would clean my room and drawing table before I really dove in head first to an assignment. As I scrubbed the caked on paint on my drawing table my roommate would ask, "So what time is the project due?" Why do I do this?

This is project number 1! Yes I noted the date and time of completion. I was trying to work with a simple palette of red and black, with a little somethin' somethin' added in. I've always like that powerful yet simple combination.

Storytime

2007-01-04T19:13:00.000-05:00

That's the theme of this years Corcoran's Print Portfolio. We we're challenged to considering political stories, journals, diaries, comic book forms, moral stories, horror stories, imagined, biblical, historical, satire, childhood stories etc. etc. Well that's a heck of a lot more interesting to me that Little Bo Peep.

It's my fourth year participating in this exciting project. I love that there's a theme to launch off of, and a group of enthusiastic people to brainstorm with. It's the graphic designer in me. The group decides on a theme in a rather fast and fluid meeting, then it's up to you. The only restraints are other than size is that it must be a hand pulled print. Etching, Relief, Silkscreen are all fair game. This year I did a combination of Linocut and Silkscreen. And pulled the last print today! I love that feeling. At the end of the project there will be a show at the Kathleen Ewing Gallery in Dupont circle. The Opening reception is set for Tuesday, February 6th - mark your calendar!

Happy new year

2006-12-30T10:24:00.000-05:00

My year has been a roller coaster ride of artistic opportunities I didn't think were possible a year ago. Starting in the spring I spent 3 weeks traveling Italy painting and teaching sketchbook development. The summer was spent off to Tennessee, North Carolina, and Maine studying bookmaking, etching, drawing and painting. I spent a good portion of the year living in my sketchbook and out of suitcase. (I gave my travel alarm clock a heck of a workout) These opportunities influenced me every step of the way. In addition to seeing and living in new places, meeting heaps of new people, seeing and hearing about all different types of artwork, and loving every minute of it - I now look at what I'm making and can see shifts in the artwork and the approach. As if all that information finally started to sink in...

What will the new year bring? It's difficult to imagine it can top this past year but I'm certainly open to it! And planning for it. I'm a big believer in the idea that if your write it down it has a much better chance of happening. (you should see my lists) This years list includes (but isn't limited to) teaching a new sketchbook class at the Corcoran and one at the Rehoboth Art league, studying with Katie Dell Kaufman, Andy Saftel and Dolph Smith, an assistant position, continuing the search for a new gallery, hoping to see my sketchbooks published, and develop enough new artwork for a solo show in the next year.

This coming year I aspire to take all the information that I collected over the past year and push my artwork in new directions. Mix it up. Experiment. Try new things. Let loose. I'm going to jump start this process with a self-inflicted art-making boot-camp in January to get the ball rolling.

Happy new year - hope it's filled with good health, good friends, family, bubbly, art, sunshine, laughter and fun, fun, fun!

Opening night at Nevin Kelly Gallery

2006-12-19T10:56:00.000-05:00

Someone asked me what I liked best about art - I said the openings! Does that count? We had a great time last week at the opening. If you missed it, scoot over to the Nevin Kelly Gallery, the show will be up for the next few weeks. The highlight of my evening was meeting the other artists who I have long admired, and having a chance to talk with Nevin the gallery owner. Seeing my artwork hanging next to theirs was the icing on the cake! Here's a shot of me with a fellow artist visiting from NCY Rodney Durso. We met last summer while studying drawing and painting at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts.

The show was curated by Gallerina Julia Morelli. (I can imagine that it was no small task to arrange the diverse pieces in this show) She has an amazing eye for detail. In addition to help running the gallery she also maintains their gallery blog. The last time I checked I was the topic of the day! For a non-printmaker she has a crystal clear understanding of the techniques I've used. Click here to read more about my approach and her glowing review of my artwork on their gallery blog.

December is off to a great start

2006-12-07T13:08:00.000-05:00

I am delighted and deliriously happy to announce that I'll have artwork included in the new show at the Nevin Kelly gallery this month. It's a beautiful hip gallery downtown on U street, near Adams Morgan. I've been there a couple times to see previous shows and can't wait to see the new show with my work included. The holiday opening reception is this Saturday, December 9th, from 4 to 7. Please stop by and check out the show.

All kinds of good things happening this week - the Corcoran has uploaded it's course schedule for Spring 2007, and the sketchbook class that I'm offering is listed under drawing. It looks like I'll also be offering a sketchbook workshop in Delaware at the Rehoboth Art League this summer (close to the beach) and it's my parents 37th anniversary. Life is good.

Opening night at the Corcoran Galley of Art

2006-12-03T15:01:00.000-05:00

Opening reception for the faculty show at Corcoran College of art and design was last week. Here's a shot of me with Katie Dell Kaufman, the collage instructor, standing in front of my piece in the gallery. It's a wonderful group of artwork including sculpture, paintings, metal, furniture, textiles, and a post-it note installation (which you can also see in this photo). I selected my assemblage titled Growth to include in the exhibit, shown here. It's a hand constructed box form including gloves, a washer head, wire, dirt, paper, cutter blade, paint and other surprises. I am thrilled to be part of this show. It's open to the public and will be on display until December 30th. If you're interested in taking a class next semester at the Corcoran, this is a great way to get a peek at the faculty's work. I've gone in the past to see what instructors I might want to study with.

And speaking of... I'll be teaching a class called discover —record — sketch — book A sketchbook development course offered Thursday's from 3:30 to 6:30. It's a seven week course starting March 1st, at the Georgetown campus of the Corcoran. The course number is DR0865. We'll cover how (and why) to keep a sketchbook or journal as well as making your own books and how incorporate alternative materials. Open to all levels. Details to come. Please contact me if you're interested in hearing more. mphackmann@comcast.net

Penland School of Crafts

2006-11-29T09:44:00.000-05:00

It seems like yesterday that I studied at Penland School of Crafts. I was lucky enough to receive the Betty Oliver Scholarship, that allowed me a chance of a lifetime to be surrounded by other artists working hard in their studios, learn new techniques and processes, and have a window of time to focus on my creative process without distractions. To live and work among so many artists was truly inspirational and motivating. The studio to my left was making books, and the studio to my right was working on photography. Some called it a boot camp for the creative, and others called it the art spa. This shot is detail of the gate outside the Iron studio, I believe it was created by the first class to use the new studio. This is just a taste of what the campus is like, there are gems like this hidden all over the place.

While I was there I studied etching. This is one of my first prints called Saturday Morning. When I wasn't in the print studio I was making notes, lists, and working in my sketchbook. I found myself working around the clock. (When I came home I did nothing but sleep for two days)

I was reminded of my experience there when I opened up the mail yesterday. Penland just mailed out their call for help to support their scholarship funds. Tucked behind all the forms was a letter that started with My name is Melissa P. Hackmann. I am a spirited artist who looked to Penland School of Crafts to grow my knowledge base and find new inspiration for my artwork...

Needless to say I just about jumped out of my chair when I saw my letter. I knew there was a remote chance they would select it, but I was still stunned when I realized my letter had been sent out across the art community. I'm very grateful to have attended and hope my letter will encourage others to support these creative communities that still exist. It certainly made an impression on me.

together at home

2006-11-25T21:13:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving was enjoyed with my family at home in upstate New York. I finished the Why We Are Thankful book and we spent the day basting the bird and watching Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving. Here's my Dad filling in his thoughts. Most of us had marked the book by the time I left. I'm always excited to see what my family will write, I can never predict what's on their mind. My husband said he was thankful to be loved and accepted and on the days he didn't feel so great. I wrote that I was thankful we choose to be together, our health, and that we have the chance to pursue our individual goals.

Here's a peek at Route 15 at 4:30 on Wednesday. Even though the drive can be especially long at this time of year, the golden sun dripped over the hillside. It was nothing less than scrumptious! To me it's the highlight of these short days.

thankful, fun, fall inspired, but not finished

2006-11-20T14:27:00.000-05:00

This is my fall inspired - post book arts fair - thanksgiving book. As I started folding down the pages, I added drawings, paint, and collaged the leftover scraps of paper to the back of the pages. Both sides of the sheet are going to show and I want them to feel connected.

While I'm pleased with the final outcome, (feels like falling leaves, folds nicely, diverse color palette) this book is way too complicated to have my family sign it... Rats. I shall dive back into my paper collection and try again. Next time I'm going to aim for simplicity.

Book arts fair and eye candy

2006-11-18T10:01:00.000-05:00

Today I spent the afternoon at the Pyramid Atlantic Book Arts Fair. It was a room full of paper creations and the people who love them. It's refreshing to meet the artists who create these precious objects of desire. I assume they'd be standing there in a superhero cape and mask holding a bonefolder - but it turns out they are, "normal, but not really", people like you and me?!?!? Much to my surprise I ran into a handful of people I studied with at Penland this summer.

I left the show ready to whip out my vast collection of papers and get moving. Wouldn't those papers would love to be books? Or collages or prints? Sometimes they tell me, sometimes they don't, but they've never complained out loud. I picked out some of my monotype prints that I'm going to turn into a book. I used to make my family a Why we are thankful book every thanksgiving, and asked that everyone (guests included) jot down a thought or two. That tradition got lost in the shuffle, but I just received a request (from my dad) to bring it back. So between now and then I won't be making a turkey but I will be making a book.

so much art so little time

2006-11-15T09:40:00.000-05:00

Whenever I'm out (especially in a place like NYC) I always seem to have collected handfuls of random bits of paper by the end of the day. While I was in NYC I saved this bright green ticket from the Whitney, a business card, postcards, directions, matches from where we had dinner, addresses of gallery's and paper stores, and one cool found scrap on the street. Some of these papers are so well designed and produced that I can't bear to throw it out. It's a piece of that moment. Much of it gets placed into my sketchbook. This is a good system for me for two reasons. First, I can collect all these mini samples of art and design and give them a proper place to be enjoyed. And second, when I want to remember where we had dinner or the address of my favorite flower shop I can usually find it in my sketchbook.

11 hours in the big apple

2006-11-12T10:54:00.000-05:00

At the last minute my husband and I decided to surprise a friend who is having an open studio in NYC this weekend. Since it was a spontaneous adventure I spent the time on the train pouring over the New Yorker magazine for art show listings and sketching out our plan of attack for the day. To avoid carrying around handfuls of printouts, addresses, post-it notes and pages of the magazine, I collaged the highlights into my sketchbook. (and it made my bag lighter) I planned our day according to art needs verses neighborhoods. By the time we arrived in Manhattan I had planned out enough gallery, museum, and paper store visits for three weeks.

My friend Rodney Durso's studio was filled with powerful large scale fearless paintings. We met while studying inventive forms of image making at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts this summer. After reviewing his work we bounced around several other gallery's in the neighborhood that happened to have collage shows up. It's motivational to see the different combinations of color, composition, and materials that others are creating. I felt the urge to start experimenting on the spot. The more I see the more I love.

New York is covered with interesting images. It's like one big art installation (sprinkled with plenty of hot dog vendors) Next we headed over to see the Picasso show at the Whitney Museum of Art. It was enlightening to see how much he had influenced the art that was being created in his lifetime, and still continues to do so. I'm going to have to look closer at my Picasso books this week.

just in case you missed it...

2006-11-07T18:57:00.000-05:00

I'll have the artwork up and hanging for a bit if you didn't make it over last Sunday. Drop me an email at mphackmann@comcast.net if you'd like to see what I've been up to this past year.

A day well spent

2006-11-06T19:36:00.000-05:00

We had a great turn out and a perfect sunny day for an open studio visit (if I must say so myself). The house was filled with old friends and new friends. What more could a gal want? All the new work found a spot on the wall (and all the furniture found a spot on the porch!)

Thank you to all those who came by for a peek. The best part for me is to see all my favorite pieces and share the excitement that I see staring back at me. I don't want to sound like too much of a sap, but I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to spend my time and energy creating art. In it's simplest form, it makes me happy. I believe my energy and love of color and texture is being focused in a positive direction. In it's deepest form it makes me happy. As the art migrates to new places and homes I hope it continues to share all the good feelings that it gave to me. As my Nanny would say, "Enjoy it in good health!"

Come on in!

2006-11-05T09:02:00.000-05:00

It's a gorgeous sunny day. The studio is now ready for guests. Hope you can stop by.

book it over to see this show

2006-11-02T09:41:00.000-05:00

Last night I was incredibly lucky to be invited to the opening reception for the Book As Art show at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. I have been to the museum before, but it was a real treat to be there for the opening. Gorgeous work and a room full of happy artistic people. Just heaven! It's a thrill for me to know some of the artists who have books in the show including Michelle Geiger, Kerry McAleer-Keeler, Carol Barton, Karen Kunc, and Renee Stout. Not to be bias, but those are some of the best pieces in the collection. I highly recommend checking this show out.

These books are not in that show (although I wished it were!). I love books and will be making more this winter. I'll have these at the open studio this weekend if you want a closer look, and be taking special orders for those who are interested. I adore paper: bright, dull, textured, wrinkled, thin, heavy, patterned, translucent, opaque - you name it! My flat files filled fast. There are hints of my paper obsession in my prints, collages, and most definitely my books.

Looking good

2006-11-01T15:52:00.000-05:00

My final selection of prints are arranged on every flat clean surface I have in this house at the moment, while I attempt to get a overview of what I have. This year I am planning on adding a studio sale table too, I created a couple mini-art board pieces that are about two inches by three inches,thick and funky. I've got the prints just about ready to go, a few paintings to touch up and one or two more petite collages I'd like to finish before the weekend. I can always tidy up the studio a bit more. Hmmm what else could I be forgetting?

I just hung my newest collection of petite collages on my orange wall. In my opinion, just about everything I have looks great against this color so it's been a challenge to determine what lucky pieces will be placed there.

Be thankful and enjoy the ride

2006-10-31T18:33:00.000-05:00

My drawing and painting class with William Christenberry met this early morning. It's one of the most challenging courses I've taken. (and not just because it starts at 8:30 am) After studying this summer I knew I needed to get back to drawing and strengthen the core skill that influences just about everything I do. Every week he reminds us, "be thankful you have the ability to make these marks, and you must enjoy the process of doing it", it's a good message for me to be reminded of.

His birthday is next weekend, so our class celebrated with extra good gestural drawings and cake!

I can't ignore what I see around me

2006-10-31T17:59:00.000-05:00

It's a joy to print at the Art League with a view like this. Especially on sunny mornings, I look forward to getting in there, spreading out all my toys and enjoying that sunshine. Even when I have a challenging day wrestling my inks into submission I'm happy to be there. Yesterday's palette was inspired by a print I saw in my new art book. (Drawing from the Modern 1975-2005) I love it, my fabulous instructor from Tasmania Mary Scott recommended it to me. This book is an endless source of inspiration, just like my instructor was.

Hang it up

2006-10-29T16:31:00.000-05:00

It's time to start hanging the artwork up. I collected everything into a pile and spent the afternoon determining what will look best next to what and where. It's nice to see it all hanging in one place. I hope next Sunday is a sunny day like today, nothing beats natural light.

One week to go

2006-10-29T09:32:00.000-05:00

These are some newly framed pieces I just finished. The inspiration was a bird's nest that was found in my mom's yard last summer.

I'm excited about the new diptych series I'm working on. I just can't get enough of the collaged papers that hinge them together. While I was in the studio working on a similar piece I thought hmmm, this would really look better sliced in half. Then thought, no that won't work because they'll be stuck together... Then realized wait one minute there lady that means they'll be stuck together!!! How fun. While I know this isn't rocket science it totally made my day.

Assemble. Attach. Repeat.

2006-10-26T19:53:00.000-04:00

Today was dedicated to collage. All my ripped and prepared papers are laid out on my table (floor, counter, windowsill) and ready to go. My studio is total chaos (nothing new in this house) but there is a method to my madness. I need to see all my bits of paper goodness while I'm feeling my way through what pieces want to be next to each other. Say it loud say it proud. I have also taken over the dining room and living room as overflow... My husband is nice enough to tip toe around them and not even raise an eyebrow. He simply says - is there an artist in the house?

I was lucky to have the opportunity to assist Jonathan Talbot and Katie Dell Kaufman recently in a collage workshop. It was 2 intense days of collage and creativity. Katie can speak volumes about collage artists alone, not to mention the never ending options available to you with alternative materials. It was educational and inspirational enough to keep the process going on my own. That's the best! The graphic designer in me enjoys this constant compositional game.

Inspiration for the day

2006-10-26T14:13:00.000-04:00

I'm getting ready for the open studio. Yesterday I spent day in the print studio, but before I left I looked outside my back door for some color influences. I need a new thread to follow today.

My first step in the process is to sketch out a few ideas. I'm trying to work out color and shape I might want. I create word lists, color palettes, and drawings to get started. I then mix and roll out inks and arrange my chincolle (collage bits) papers according to what I think will work well with my initial ideas. Then it's time to just get messy and do it.

By the time I left I had a nice handful of new work. Some I love, some experimental, and some that will go back into my collage or card making bin. Tomorrow will be a collage day. Tonight I have an opening to go to at the Arlington ellipse center, I have two pieces accepted into the current Arlington Salon show (it's up until December 16, 2006)