During these dark and dreary days in the PNW it’s sometimes tough for me to find motivation to keep my art practice going. Of course there’s nothing wrong with being slow, and reframing this season as “cozy” – a time for TV and video games. Still, I’d like to make time for this thing that makes me feel fulfilled and connected to myself and others.
So I’m trying a new medium!
I’ve been been experimenting with inks lately. I love working wet into wet –WILD stuff happens. I’m so interested in the back and forth between freedom and control. Things happen that I couldn’t force even if I tried.
If you love making art you know how inspiring working with a new medium is. Here’s a reminder to pull out some dusty supplies—I know you have them—and try something else. Below are some figure studies I made at Hipbone studios on E Burnside with ink (if you don’t know, Hipbone offers drop-in figure drawing classes. Sunday mornings are just $15 plus tip for the model).
On a real note, I’ve been feeling a little depressed and disconnected lately and I’m sure I’m not alone. Maybe it’s a lack of vitamin D (I should be taking it honestly) and maybe it’s also something deeper—confrontations with the ugliness of the world and a general feeling of being misunderstood. And loneliness, which affects us all.
And then a brighter note: I had a wonderful time at the opening of Sketchbook Experiments. I’m lucky to be a part of a creative community that shows up and reaches out with check-ins and encouragement. Thank you Stephanie for approaching me with the concept and opportunity. And thank you Cole for packaging my prints, hyping me up and helping me put up the show.
Hope everyone has a safe and happy new year!
Allie
Events:
Sketchbook Experiments is on view at Happy Anyway 3125 SE Belmont st. through January. It consists of my sketchbooks, as well as original artwork and prints for sale. Not only is HA a gallery space, it is also an amazing local shop with really special stuff for sale.
Dec. 21 Ulna studios is having a Solstice art and card making party from 1-4pm in their beautiful studio. I won’t be there unfortunately but I’ll have work/prints for sale alongside some other awesome Ulna community artists.
It looks like my Sketchbook Class at Ulna will be posted soon! Keep an eye out – the class will take place during April.
Currently Reading:
Wolfish by local author Erica Berry – a non fiction reflection on fear and the history of wolves in Oregon.
Currently listening to:
Some new music in this seven song playlist I just made called December: Not Holiday
Enjoyed reading this, thanks! Love the deep blue and red combination. I use it in my work too sometimes. Not yet tried mixing dye ink with acrylic ink, interesting idea.