scratching through

Scratchboard Horses

2012-01-28T10:17:00.000-06:00

I've spent the week working on many new scratchboard drawings. Thought I'd put myself through an exercise of doing a pretty 'realistic' version and then my folky version of a horse. My website is Blue-eyed Pony Studio so I wanted something new to put on my business card. For those who wonder why that name; I had a blue eyed horse when I was in my early teens. She was crazy wild. I was too, so there you go. That would be the 1st image. The second is purely from my memory of another horse that I rode in my youth, 'Shadow'. That was a long time ago. Shadow is long gone, as is the friendship with the owner of the horse. Oh well, it's all in my head now anyway.
I like the 1st image best. It was good to play around with both versions. And good to know which one speaks to me the most. Maybe one of them speaks to you? I'd be happy to sell either one of them. I've got tons of artwork piling up around the house/studio. I just keep making it. Now selling it has become front and center. Working on a Kickstarter project which I'll be launching next week. It will be all about dogs and rescue and scratchboard drawings. As always the above are Ampersand Art scratchbord with inks and a nice light coat of Krylon Workable Fixitif. The are 5"x7" and sell for $75.00 unframed, $100.00 framed. Let me know if you want one. But especially let me know what you think.
It's still winter (although it's been too damned warm here) and I'm in that reflective, hibernation state of mind. Started reading and doing the Artist Way again. Morning pages are a struggle, but I do them anyway. Looking forward to spring, more art and big ideas.
I will begin the "Linda Sheets Rocks The Country Scratchbord Demo Tour" sometime in Feb. Will keep you posted on that. Will start in the NE first. (I know, winter, NE, crazy travel time...)

Little Joe With Cow/Crystal Bridges

2012-01-19T18:27:00.000-06:00

Here is another of my favorite artworks at Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville. Title is "Little Joe With Cow". Artist is Yasuo Kuniyoshi. Besides being pleasing to my eye and soul, something about this piece helps me to feel hopeful that the art I'm creating is indeed art. It's on the wall in a museum, so it must be good art, right? (don't misunderstand, I absolutely think this is great art)There's always an inner struggle when making art, the question of the validity, purpose and finally outcome. Am I making art? Is it good enough? How much do I care about the answer to that question? And must I rely on others opinion to make it so?
For the most part, I shrug it off and just keep creating. I can't spend too much time thinking about what it is or isn't. I must do. If I'm to be honest, there are days when I wonder if I should have just stayed a plumber. I understand plumbing, how it works and doesn't work, and what needs to be done to put it all together. Pure and simple. Art, not so much. Here are my cows today, work is underway, not finished, not sure what is next. But, loving the process of putting it all together.
I'm rambling on now, was up until 4am reading and tossing and turning. I wonder how the creative process works for others. Anyone?

Crystal Bridges Museum Joseph Cornell

2012-01-16T10:36:00.000-06:00

In continuing my exploration of the new Crystal Bridges Museum here in NW Arkansas: This is the Joseph Cornell piece in the collection. The installation is great, they have a mirror so you can see the back which has collaged paper on it. Have I told y'all how much I love him? Maybe not. Here goes...I have read everything I can get my hands on about him. Quirky? Odd? Eccentric? Yes, indeedy. All of the above and more. Amazing, self taught artist. He hung out with Duchamp. In fact some thought he might have been in love with him...He lived and worked in the house he grew up in in NY. Lived on 'Utopia Parkway' in Queens. I love that street name. Perfect.
I got to see a major retrospective of his a few years back, in Salem, MA at the Peabody Essex Museum. 180 of his works, many which had not been in museums. Thanks to Lynda Roscoe Hartigan who curated it, put together a wonderful book for it, and is one of the foremost experts on his work. I even managed to communicate with her via email and got feedback on my work and a personalized signed book. I admit, that put me over the moon!
I spent over 3 hours in the PEM exhibit, and went back twice for more. I wish I had photos of it. They didn't allow them, at all. This is a major difference so far at Crystal Bridges. Of course they don't allow tri-pods or mono-pods or flash photography. And some of the special exhibits don't allow it. But for the most part, snap away. The above and the former post are photos I took with my smart phone, a samsung galaxy. Not too bad.
I'm going to CB again this Friday with friends who have not been there yet. I wonder what new/old works I'll see with new eyes? I have a feeling I'm going to spend a lot of my time up there wandering through. I've already spotted some snooty east coast types (what does this mean? Hard to describe, but I used to live in Boston, and was involved for a while with an 'old money' crowd for a bit thanks to a former relationship) who seem to be amazed and slightly stunned at what we have here in the Ozarks. Am I upset that this collection is associated with Walton money? Hell no. No more than we should be upset at the Guggenheim money or any other robber baron who financed art institutions. Get over it, and come visit.
It has taken me most of the morning to write this. Sorry, I'm groggy from going to sleep way too late (early?) at 3am and waking up way too early at 7:30. My system is off somewhat due to the strange weather. It's mid-January and 60 degrees here in NWArkansas. Something really wrong about this. I moved north from TX to get real seasons...Oh well, today I'll go work outside and put together some box assemblages of my own.

Crystal Bridges Museum Louise Nevelson

2012-01-13T13:39:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I taught a very enthusiastic group of High School students how to work with Ampersand scratchbord. After the class I went to the new Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. This is my second time through there and I spent around 2 hours+ just wandering around. Saw so many pieces that I would swear I didn't see the first time. Not true of the above piece. Couldn't miss it. Wouldn't miss it. It is by one of my favorite artists: Louise Nevelson. She reportedly would pick up scraps of wood as she walked the streets of New York City. I love that. Any of you who know me well, know that I've moved piles of scraps of wood 2x in the past 2 years. (and I thank you for helping me!) I'm sure you think I'm crazy for that, but hey, look at the above and maybe you'll understand a bit of my motivation. I can't remember the title of this. It doesn't really matter to me. There is so much to look at, and dive into here, I can write my own story and title. More photos from the museum and also work in progress+scratchbord classes soon.

Idea Dog Scratchboard

2012-01-06T09:18:00.000-06:00

This little sweet black dog with an idea was completed the other day. I reused a 3"x5" Ampersand Art scratchbord, sample size. After teaching a workshop I hang onto all the spare boards that students have scratched up and then I lightly sand with fine sandpaper and brush on some Speedball Super Black India Ink and there you go, a new surface to scratch through. It's hard to get a real smooth finish like Ampersand does, and the Speedball ink makes it a bit harder to scratch (don't make it too thick), but if your tools are sharp and your hand steady you can do it. The effect of whatever previous scratching was there pops out and just adds depth and dimension to the piece. Happy Accidents. I've got some big plans and big ideas for 2012. Working on some of them today. Let's just say, they involve dogs and scratchbord artworks and kickstarter. Will keep you posted as it develops. This planning stuff is an unusual thing for the impulsive Aries that I am. I truely like to 'shoot first, ask questions later' (not that I want to shoot anyone...really!) It's a good exercise in patience for me. And lord knows I'm not a patient person.
Speaking of which, when is Winter going to arrive in NW Arkansas? It's been in the 50-60's during the day for a while now. This is January, isn't it supposed to be cold? The fact that our past summer was extremely hot and now this has made me wonder if this location is where I belong...I don't mean to complain, it really has been beautiful and mild. But something about it just doesn't feel right. Maybe it's just the memories of the Northern Indiana winters stuck somewhere in the back of my head.
Last night was 1st Thursday in Fayetteville. No Underground. I miss it. I miss the other artists. Saddness.

Party Animals!

2011-12-31T13:30:00.000-06:00

Working on this 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchbord the past two days. Not sure if it's finished yet. It's based on a photo by my friend Fay Barclay who puts up the greatest shots of her dogs and other dogs that need adopting on facebook. She and I are going to collaborate on a project in 2012. More about that as it develops. Come on 2012!
Here's a quick re-cap of 2011-
After moving to Fayetteville Arkansas in Oct 2010... In Feb. 2011 I got a studio at the Fayetteville Underground, made great friends there with artists and patrons alike. Had my first solo show there in Sept. Had to move out a few weeks ago, after the dysfunctional board decided to dissolve the organization. In January/Feb. I designed a series of 5x7 scratchbord kits for Ampersand Art and debuted them in April at the art material trade show. Big success! They started hitting the stores around August and are now carried in many stores around the country. June 1st I was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer- had surgery to remove it June 15th. All clear. Voice finally came back, but I don't think I'll ever be a singer again. That's a little disappointing. Considering the alternative tho, I think I can live with it. And now, here I am, still making art and working on new designs to license and looking forward to a bright new year. Happy Happy to all of you!

Dog Heart Scratchboard Art

2011-12-30T13:21:00.000-06:00

Today we have a small (3"x5") Ampersand Art scratchbord study. I originally did this design using a sheet foam product with sticky back. I think the purpose of this foam is to make stamps (for stamping with ink). I made several quick pieces using the foam, and then translated them to scratchbord. At first I was worried that it was too much like Keith Haring. Upon looking at his work again, I've decided that no, it's close but not that close. Derivative, maybe, but not a copy. I am merely being influenced...I love being influenced! It's always interesting to see what comes from that.
Yesterday I burned a bridge. Well, let's just say it was already hanging by a thread, and was dangerous to cross on anyway, so it needed burning. The story behind this? I told someone who was on the board of a wonderful art organization I was involved with here that they and the rest of the board squandered and mismanaged a perfectly good group. They ran it into the ground. Am I sorry? Yes, I'm sorry they did what they did. Me, not sorry for speaking my mind. Wish I would have done it sooner. And I wish there had been something all of us could have done to stop the decline. Oh well. Life goes on. My studio is at home now. I look out the window at the birds at the bird feeder, and I try to think up good ideas for future art works.

Orange Cat Face

2011-12-28T13:04:00.000-06:00

This is a small (3"x5") Ampersand Art scratchbord. Note: This size is available only as a sample bord, they don't sell these commercially. I started working on it while doing a demo and finished it a few days ago. I was trying to illustrate how much of the black ink surface should be removed in order to get the most 'bang' from the claybord ink. As you can see I scraped away a lot of the black, leaving the outline and some black here and there to give it some nice texture. I then used some red, yellow, orange and brown ink. One of my techniques is to have a slightly damp paper towel handy so I can use it to pull some of the added ink color out. The trick with this is to get on it while the ink is still damp...it dries quickly so you have to do this immediately after brushing it on. If you find you pull too much out, you can go right back in with more ink to make it darker or more saturated. It's also a good idea to not have too much ink loaded on the brush. You can dab it on the paper towel (in an area that won't be used to pull color back out. I used my favorite tool on the eyes, (the iris)the red fiberglass eraser. It is very effective at pulling out the black, softening the surface, but leaving just enough grey and white to color. As with everything I do, this is my simple, folk art style. I could do realism, but my feeling about that is, why? It just doesn't speak to me. I love taking photos and then re-working them to make the image my own. Don't get me wrong, I'm totally impressed with the hyper-realism style, and it is amazing.
Get out there and make some art. Whenever and wherever you can. I'm still trying to convert the world to the joy of scratchbord, one bord at a time...

Scratchboard Classes And Gratitude

2011-12-21T12:56:00.000-06:00

Took these photos this week while teaching two scratchbord classes to some great students at Fayetteville High School-Go Bulldogs! Sorry about them being sideways, still don't know how to fix that. We had a great time together, there were about 30 students per class. They kept me hopping! And I totally enjoyed it! Thank you Ms. Adams, and thank you Ampersand for letting me spread the joy!
I'm feeling very grateful today for many things. I'm mourning the loss of the space that the Fayetteville Underground used to fill. We are officially out December 31st. Sad, sad, sad. Because of the Underground, which I joined in Feb., I have met some of the greatest folks. Artists and art lovers alike. Because of the Underground, I have been able to make the contacts to teach scratchbord classes to students at John Brown University (2x) Mary Hardin Baylor College in Belton, TX, and this weeks classes at Fayetteville High School. In addition, I've taught classes with a cancer survivors group and classes at the Underground. I will miss all of the artists. I know we will stay in touch, but still, there not be another group/place like it. And even tho the A&P commission is going to attempt to re-create the organization at the old post office in the square, it will not be the same. I hope there will be support from the public for artists here in NWA. I'm in my studio at home on the hwy. If you want to see or buy my art, you'll have to come here. Contact me. I will continue to make art like crazy. And my scratchbord kits are at Hobby Lobby, Aaron Brothers, Dick Blick and Jerry's Artarama. Have fun!

Life Moves On

2011-12-17T10:52:00.000-06:00

I spent some time yesterday working on the above commission for an Austinite. She is not so keen on it, so I'm back to the drawing board soon to see if I can make one that pleases her. Meanwhile, I like it and may adapt this scratchbord with some changes (and others) into a storyline for a children's book. I've been thinking about doing a child's picture book ever since I got back from spending 3 weeks in Austin last month. There is a certain little almost 2 year old who is my dear friends little girl. We spent a lot of time looking at and reading her books. I think there may be an 'Adventures of Little Josephine' needing to be written and illustrated soon.
Meanwhile, studios at the Fayetteville Underground are being packed up and moved. The artists are going to various points through out the area. Me, I'm back in my little blue house on the hwy, sitting at the table in my living room making art, looking at the birds at the feeder, and watching the cars go by. I'm sorry the group is fracturing, and yet, I had been thinking I needed to move on or change something in how this art business is going for me. The licensing deal on the scratchbord kits with Ampersand is going great. Actual art sales at galleries, kind of slow. And kind of slow does not pay the bills. So, during the winter I will be working on more designs to license, and making some plans to ramp up the etsy shop and such. The 'such' part is the unknown plan that I'm hoping will come to me while I'm working.
Next week I've got 3 scratchbord demo/classes scheduled, two at the local high school and one with the cancer survivors group. Then, to plow through the whole 'holiday' thing. Good luck out there folks. I hope y'all get or give everything you want.

Scratchboard Demo Fun

2011-12-06T09:33:00.000-06:00

Ok, please forgive me for the side-ways, out of focus view on this photo. I finally got a smart phone, and I'm not smart enough to figure out how to use it! If you tilt your head to the right you get the general idea. This is a 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchbord from last night's demo. The artist, Linda Flores, invited me to come spend the evening teaching a group of cancer survivors some scratchbord techniques. I am a 'member' of that cancer survivor 'club' now, due to the whole thyroid cancer experience in June. We had such a great time. There were about 10 of us, talking, drawing, scratching, enjoying. I loved it! I believe there might even be a few new converts to the scratchbord way. They liked it so much they asked me to come back on the 19th to continue the class. It is so satisfying for me to watch as folks discover what they can do with this bord. (that's the Ampersand spelling) The way Linda F is approaching this design is a very traditional take on using scratchbord as illustration. It looks very much like a woodcut, or etching. She used a template of a line drawing, transferred it using white chalk on the back. The scratching beyond the line drawing is her imagination and talent. I look forward to seeing this completed on the 19th. She attended a class I taught at the Fayetteville Underground earlier this year, and used her artwork from that class to make inkjet prints of it on greeting cards. I promise I will take better photos next time.
There is a dusting of snow on the ground outside, I'm warm and toasty inside. Thinking about some commission projects that need to be done before Christmas. Oh my...I'd best jump on those today!

Art Sale At The Fayetteville Underground

2011-12-01T06:56:00.000-06:00

Tonight (1st Thursday) there will be a huge art sale going on at The Fayetteville Underground from 5-8. All or most of the artists there will be slashing prices on their work. It's a great time to be an art buyer! The above piece is an box assemblage from my earlier body of work(2006-7). It's "Alice, The Dark Side(drink up)". Previous price $150.00. Tonight's price $75.00. I used a variety of vintage papers, paints and wood in creating this piece. There are also a number of scratchboard and mixed media works in my studio that will be half price. Hope y'all can stop by and help us celebrate the Underground, on this, our last 1st Thursday in this space, as this organization. Stay tuned, we are moving on to bigger and better things as the 'Fayetteville Arts Alliance'.

Making Art/Not Making Art

2011-11-18T09:09:00.000-06:00

I've been in Texas for a few weeks now, visiting friends and doing some art business. Much is focused on art and the scratchbord kits and demo's and classes. And yet, I haven't made much actual art since I've been traveling. Now, mind you, I've been thinking about art a lot. And planning pieces in my head. And doing demos I do get to make art, kind of....Plus I've been stocking up on supplies that are not available back in Fay'vlle. I've got several bottles of my new favorite sealer for collage, Golden's UV Varnish (Matte). Still have to get a few more things before I leave the big city...I'm really getting my fill of breakfast taco's, bbq and a certain little, almost two year old!
Yesterday I stopped in Aaron Brother's Framing store at Sunset Valley Marketfair. My Scratchbord kits were on the wall, oh joy! Next step, try and set up some in-store demos to introduce folks who shop there to my world.

Today I'm posting a little mixed media collage piece, of a sweet 'Pointy-Eared Dog'. This is a 4"x4" artist panel (from Ampersand, of course) I used some Golden Acrylic paint and gel medium, along with some vintage papers I had lying around...and there you go-ART! It's not scratchbord, but I did do some scratching texture into the background paint before it dried. I top-coated with a matte Golden Gel Medium to protect it.
Be sure and mark your calendar for the weekend right after Thanksgiving. I'll be out in San Marcos, TX with a bunch of other artists selling our creations at the Eye Of The Dog Art Center. This is the third year I've attended this show as a crafts person. It is definitely a good time. Much different from shopping at the mall, in a very good way. You'll need directions as it is out in the country. But, with art, food, drink and fun, absolutely worth it. Check it out here. Friday night is a sweet party there with Ponty Bone playing. All are welcome, hope you can make it out.
And of course, Ampersand scratchbord demo at Jerry's Artarama Austin, tomorrow, Saturday the 19th from noon to 3pm. FREE! Need I say more?

Free Ampersand Scratchbord Demo At Jerry's Artarama Austin!

2011-11-16T08:05:00.000-06:00

Yes dear folks, I am in beautiful Austin, Texas. Home of Ampersand Scratchbord (and other delicious art bords, like gessobord, claybord etc...) Check out their website to see all of them. I will be at the Jerry's Artarama Austin on N. I-35 this Saturday November 19th from 12noon-3pm teaching all who stop by about the wonders of scratchbord. If you are out and about stop by for a bit and play. If you've ever tried the paper version of scratchboard and been frustrated with how it tears and deteriorates, stop right in and try Ampersand's surface. I have been in love with this product for 10 years. Hmmmn, my longest relationship so far. And it's a good one! Go to the Ampersand website to learn more...about the bord, not my relationship history y'all!

This is a little 5"x7" version of my owl design on the scratchbord, without color added. Usually I add inks from the Claybord ink set that Ampersand sells, but I thought I'd go grey with this one. I'm off to more visiting with friends, and some damn good tacos! Enjoy your day, stay in the moment and make some art...

What A Mess Of Art!

2011-11-05T19:37:00.000-05:00

This is the living room after hauling most of the stuff out of my studio at the Fayetteville Underground. Dang, I've really got the whole 'body of work' thing a'going on here. Now granted, some of this is going to Wally Workman Gallery in Austin, TX. Some of it is going to Eye Of The Dog Art Center in San Marcos, TX for their annual after turkey day home show, and finally, some of it is my Ampersand Art scratchbord teaching materials for demos and workshops. I'm heading out to Texas for art fun! Can't wait to see all my friends! and I'm doing a bunch of scratchbord and stampbord workshops. If you are in Austin, be sure and stop by Jerry's Artarama on I-35, Saturday November 19th from 12-3pm. I'll be there doing a free demo. Yippie eye oh!
The sad thing about this picture is that there is another room in the house that I use as a studio, it is full up too. Sad, because I really just want to sell it all to make room for making more. So, what I ask you is, instead of buying the newest phone, fad, or whatever, buy some art...from me, or any other artist. The economy has hit us hard too.
I really hope folks will support the Underground artists in our new adventure. Check out our morph the org website to learn more.
Meanwhile, I've got a heap o' packing to do...Yah hoo!
I guess all I really wanted to say is...I'm off for a bit, I'll miss all y'all in the Arkansas Ozarks. But I'll be back for our last 1st Thursday at the Fayetteville Square location. I hope y'all can come out and visit with us. Bring your dollars and do a little or a lot of art shopping. And I really hope you will help us continue to bring amazing art to this sweet little burg! Chow babies!

The Artists Of The Fayetteville Underground Are NOT Folding!

2011-10-29T15:16:00.000-05:00

Please go here to see how to help. http://www.morphtheorg.com/
I was reminded last night, at a really sweet party held for the Fayetteville Underground artists, what a great bunch of folks I get to work with. Today there was a misleading article in the North West Arkansas Times saying that we are folding...Correction: The board of this organization, who are unable to raise enough funds to fight their way out of a paper bag, are dissolving the organization at the end of the year. In spite of our best efforts to take over the organization and thus preserving our momentum and enabling us to receive possible funding from the Warhol Foundation grant that we applied for, they decided on a "Clean Break".
Just so you know, There are two more 1st Thursday events (November and December) and shows at the current location until the very last day of December. AND THEN: a metamorphosis, or evolution (maybe even a REVOLUTION!) The artists, who worked very hard to keep things humming at the galleries all along, are going to create something even better than before. Stay with us, follow us, help us keep the creative economy going in North West Arkansas, We Need All Y'all To Step Up And Help!

Everybody Loves A Starving Artist

2011-10-28T11:17:00.000-05:00

...But nobody wants to feed them. I've been thinking about what an friend said the other day. Someone in a powerful position had said to her that "she was a 'different' kind of artist because she used both sides of her brain, rather than just the right side". I was amused, stunned, a bit confused and a little angry. I don't even really know what she meant by that statement. I'm quite sure it was based on ignorance and long held stereotypes of what artists are and are not. Thinking back to my art school days, I too had some pretty common myths about what artists should be doing. Suffering was right up there at the top of the list, along with starving, being a drunken fool, etc... Trust me, I tried them all. None of those things made me a better artist. In fact, for the most part the works I made while drinking or suffering were absolute crap. I dropped out of art school after two years to become a plumber. It seemed like a good move at the time. Especially since I did not want to become a teacher (surprise, I now LOVE teaching) or a graphic artist (which to me, somehow was 'less' of an artist). I think differently now.
So, a plumber and contractor I became. And I did it for about 25 years solid, with very little art mixed in with it. It was good, and then art called me back and I answered the call.
I'm not quite sure which side of my brain I used while having my own contracting business. Left, right, both sides, what does it matter? What is important is that I was able to 'stick with it'. Putting my head down and just getting the job done. Good lessons that I've been able to apply to my current art career. And listen, those of you who refuse to be thinking creatively? Please, step aside and let me move forward. Artists HAVE REAL JOBS. Really. In fact, sometimes I think my job is harder because I have to make something up that didn't exist every single time I start a new artwork. The above is an example of that. I worked on this yesterday because I'm trying to fulfill a themed group show at a gallery. "After Dark" is the theme. This is "2 Monkey Night". It's an Ampersand Art scratchbord. I hope the gallery likes it and I can sell it. That's my reality. Not only do I have to make stuff up and execute it well, I have to market it and hope someone likes it enough to buy it. All in a days work for an artist.
Now granted, there are many artists who do fill those stereotypes quite well. But, there are also a lot of plumbers, lawyers, doctors and every other profession who fit it too. So please, understand when I roll my eyes, or appear less than appreciative of your assessment of my chosen vocation. You just have no idea.

Toonces The Scratchboard Cat

2011-10-17T17:25:00.000-05:00

Finished this little guy and sent if off. It was a commission for a friend in Austin who is giving it to her father this month for his birthday. Toonces was his favorite cat and, if I have the story right, died sometime in the past year. I'm always happy to take on a commission, especially if the dog/cat was/is a beloved family pet. It is a small 3"x5" Ampersand Art Supply scratchbord unframed. I used a bit of ink for the eyes, ears, and tag. While doing it I kept humming, 'Toonces, the driving cat.' Old Saturday Night Live skit...In the old, old days folks!
Tomorrow I will be giving 4 scratchbord workshops for the VA at the Fayetteville Underground. Total of about 100 folks. What fun! I love teaching scratchbord...hope to be doing quite a bit of it this coming year. Stay tuned. And let me know if you need/want a scratchboard done of your pet.

Am I Angry?

2011-10-13T15:06:00.000-05:00

YES! I'd even venture to say, 'HELL YES'! Am I an angry person? No, in fact I am one of the happiest people around. I have great friends and a pretty wonderful life.
Here are a few of the things that make me angry. And, because I have paid for enough therapy over the years to buy a house, I'm pretty sure there is nothing wrong with being angry about certain things. In fact, people who 'never' get angry frighten me because I think there must be a shit-load of stuff a'brewing inside of them waiting to explode on someone who doesn't deserve it.
So, to continue, here are a few things that make me really angry;
Bad, rude, dismissive behavior. Men who think it's ok to treat women badly. Women who think it's ok to treat men badly. Mean, ignorant people. Unfair situations. Trying to control me, my behavior or actions (or others) because you are weak or fearful.(or just plain controlling for whatever reason) BULLIES, physical or emotional. People who think they know me, but have never had a conversation with me who say that I'm angry.
These are just a few of my angry things. Thanks, I just had to get that off my chest.
Now, here are some happy things to take your mind off of what an angry woman I am.

This is a new collage piece I finished recently. Since there has been some crazy high drama at the art organization/studio I've been working happily at home on many, many new works. I'm not going to beat around the bush, The Fayetteville Underground has become a toxic place for me. I have loved being there, but now, not so much.
So for your consideration..."Looking For Dali" I have to update the photo, I've actually added some color to the clock in the belly. It's a combination of vintage 1940's magazines with a bit of O mag thrown in. It measures 9"x14" and could be yours if you want it. Let me know and I'll shoot a price to you. It's on gessoed mdf panel. I will frame it in a black floater type frame.
Well, that's all for now. I hope I haven't scared you with my 'anger'. Tell you what, who would YOU rather be with? Someone like me who isn't afraid to stand up for what's right and good? Or someone who 'toes' the line and doesn't want to cause a ruckus?
Me, I'm sticking up for myself and you, if you need it.

In A Little Red Barn On A Farm Down In Indiana

2011-10-11T13:46:00.000-05:00

This is my latest mixed media collage. I'm moving back into my home studio due to some major unhappiness with the way the management (or should I say, mis-management) of the artist organization I'm involved with. That's all I'll say about it right now. For me, the making of art is important. This quasi political brew ha ha is just a bump in the road. Since the physical/emotional disruption, I've been unable to make art in my downtown studio. Thus, I've been making collage work at home, like crazy. I guess I should thank those who have had 'control' over my (and other artists) destiny these past months. The anger I feel has pushed me onward and upward. In other words, thanks, now get out of my way.
This piece is based loosely on my memories of growing up in Northern Indiana. There was (or maybe still is?) a major AM radio station, WOWO that had huge wattage. It was an important source of information regarding pork bellies and such. They had a program that started with a song; "In a little red barn, on a farm, down in Indiana..."
And so, maybe that is the name of this piece, or maybe it's just "Down On The Farm". I used a lot of vintage 1940's magazine images, plus some contemporary Oprah mag pages. It's interesting, at 1st Thursday the other night, a friend looked at it and said, "Oh look, there's the Mother and Father...and their, uh" I'm pretty sure it's more like 'High Drama On the Farm"...Honestly, I'm not really sure what any of this means. My collage work is much more in the surreal vein, and more just what feels right together. So, what it means is more up to the viewer. I had no deep intentions, really. I just like putting pieces on a board.
If you are interested, this piece is framed and available. Let me know and we'll talk $$ and logistics of getting it to you.
Meanwhile, I continue to make scratchboard pieces, and teach and demonstrate the process of making art with scratchboards. I'm a happy girl from up there in farmland, living down here in southland. And oh yeah, have a great day out there!

New Mixed Media Collage

2011-10-03T15:15:00.000-05:00

Just finished this 8"x10" mixed-media collage last night. Dang, I have fun with these! The images are from my collection of 1940's magazines. Title is "Niblets". It's framed in a black floater type frame and ready to sell. Mounted on gessoed 1/4" MDF. Special online price for the next two weeks, is $150.00. Usual cost for an 8"x10 from my studio is $250.00 so that's 100 bucks off folks. I'll be putting this up on etsy tomorrow, same price for two weeks. Sale ends midnight Oct. 17th. So line up and sign up and buy now, save $$
I know, I know, you think, geez, this is just a bunch of scraps of paper glued together. Yeah, well, I went through the magazines, picking out images, cut the boards, gessoed them, glued everything together and then put a nice uv protected finish on it and framed it. You know what I'm saying? This is bonafide work., I'm tired just talking about it now.
I hope y'all enjoy my fun cut paper activities. Hey, have a day out there!

Dog and 2 Humans Collage Artwork

2011-09-26T09:19:00.000-05:00

Woke up this morning around 4:30am. Tried to force myself back to sleep, but wouldn't go...finally got up around 5 and put this piece together. It's an 11"x14" MDF panel. I prepared the panel with some dandy 'Bob Ross' black gesso and used nori paste to do the glue down. I had cut out most of the images last night while watching old episodes of 'Iron Chef' on my computer...nice way to spend the time, eh? Thanks for all the issues of Oprah mags Al, lots of good colors and faces.
I'll do a top coat with some Golden Gel Medium, heavy matt finish. And then, who knows? Maybe someone will want to buy this. Or I will just add it to the growing stack of unsold artwork. I have to keep on making art....that's what I do, that's who I am, and that's what keeps me sane. Here's the thing folks, once they are done...I'm done. The most recent piece I'm working on is my newest favorite. The older finished pieces are crying out to go home with someone besides me. so if you want it, or need it, shoot me a message and we'll talk details. I had a great weekend. The scratchboard class at the Fayetteville Underground on Saturday was wonderful. Lots of fun art being made. I'll post some photos and more on that next time...stay tuned.

Scratchboard dogs and society pages

2011-09-18T11:41:00.000-05:00

Finished these two scratchbords yesterday. I made them for some new friends. They were delighted when I dropped them off! While I was working on them I had a little struggle at first with 'Hattie', but then I just let go and let the scratching and scraping happen without thinking too much about it. I always know when a piece is going to be successful when I'm laughing and joyful during the process of making it. There was a lot of that happening while doing these. These are both 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchbords with claybord inks. They are unusual for me as they are horizontal. I prefer a vertical subject matter, but the photos I took of them dictated the orientation, so there you go.
Got a check from Wally Workman Gallery yesterday. The '3Monkeys In A Boat' piece mentioned in the post before this sold to the TV show 'The Lying Game'. Mostly because it got scratched (which upset me for about a half a second) I had to let it go and not worry about it. I have no control over what happens to a piece after it leaves the gallery. As long as they don't use the image without my permission, or reproduce it on products without compensating me; I'm not involved. I don't like the idea of my piece being damaged...oh well.
This morning I opened the newspaper (I love Sunday mornings with the larger newspaper and NPR) and discovered that I had made the 'Society' page for the Youthbridge Starry Starry Night fundraiser in a photo. Whoohoo!

Today In Linda Land

2011-09-13T21:07:00.000-05:00

Today was a wonderful day in Land O' Linda. I worked in my studio for a bit...working on some collaged greeting cards. Then I went to visit some new friends, one of them is an amazing poet and both are all around wonderful folks. I spent much of the afternoon there with him reading me his poetry and us discussing the way of the world. Ah, bliss. If that wasn't enough (and trust me, it was!) I then came home and watched the most recent episode of The Lying Game to see that finally, my piece of art that was leased from Wally Workman Gallery in Austin was right there on the screen, 2X during the course of the show. Sorry about the blurry photos. I watch TV on my computer screen...no big flat screen high def for me. The piece is an 18"x24" Ampersand Art scratchboard. Funny thing is, I started this piece in response to having a different piece rejected for a show. Glad it happened, although at the time I was a bit miffed. I love the way things turn out when they are out of our control and we just hang on and go for the ride.

Scratchboard Classes at The Fayetteville Underground

2011-09-09T16:52:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, Saturday Sept. 10th, from 12-3pm I will be teaching scratchboard classes to who ever happens by the classroom at the Fayetteville Underground. I had folks sign up at 1st Thursday, but my system was flawed, and no one paid up, so I'm hoping that at least 10 folks that put their names in the book come out. I can work with 20+ so if you are thinking about it...come on down and play! The cost is $15.00 and that includes all of the matericals. I've got Ampersand Art scratchboards, paints, inks and patterns. Scratchboard is fun, instantly gratifying, and accessible to all ages and abilities. Yes, some folks do fabulously detailed drawings right down to the last hair, which is great, others, such as me, draw out a 'Sleepy Bear' like the above. There is room enough for all of us on this scratchboard planet. So please, even if it's after 12, stop on by and see if the boards speak to you. Thanks, and have a great weekend!

Scratchboard Still Life And Such

2011-09-06T10:12:00.000-05:00

Just finished this fun mixed media piece. Got 'er framed up and ready to go. If you love it and want it, give me a holler and we'll do the paypal thing. It's priced at $375.00. Here are the details: It is an Ampersand Art Scratchbord, embellished with inks and vintage paper collage. The frame is an Illusions Floater frame, black matte. It's 11"x14"
"The Dog And Monkey Show" is up at the Fayetteville Underground in the Revolver Gallery until Saturday Oct. 1. There will be a 'meet the artist' event on Saturday the 17th, and a closing event Saturday Oct. 1. I'll post times when they are determined. I'm also teaching two scratchbord classes at the Underground, both Saturdays the 10th and 24th from noon to 3pm. They will cost $15.00 a class, all materials included. Shoot me an email at lchsheets@blue-eyedponystudio.com or come into the Underground and register.

http://www.kuaf.org/ozarksatlarge

2011-09-04T10:50:00.000-05:00

Check out the link below for artist interview for Fayetteville Underground opening. "The Dog And Monkey Show" is featured. Scroll down page till you see the 'dog and monkey'.

http://www.kuaf.org/ozarksatlarge

The Dog And Monkey Show Fayetteville Underground

2011-08-28T18:25:00.000-05:00

"The Dog And Monkey Show" opens this week at the Fayetteville Underground. The Galleries will be open this week starting Weds thru Friday from 12noon to 7pm. And Saturday from 10am to 5pm. The reception is 5- 8pm September 1st which is 1st Thursday y'all. Big doin's, so I'm hoping folks can make it down.
It's my first solo show there and it's in the Revolver Gallery (which is huge!) I've got around 40 new pieces ready to go on the wall. I'll be in there hanging the show tomorrow, and doing all the finishing touches. I'm excited. I'm happy. There is a lot of really amazing art on the walls in the other 3 galleries, so please, check it out.
I'm scheduled to do two scratchboard classes there at the Underground in the classroom, on Saturday Sept. 10th and 24th from noon to 3pm. The cost is low, $15.00 per person, per class. Pre-registration is requested as class size is limited to 20 folks per class. There will be a sign up sheet in the E Street Gallery, as well as in the Revolver thursday evening. I'll have Ampersand Art Supply scratchbord samples, tools, inks, patterns to trace, and various paints there, everything you need to walk out with a finished or almost finished artwork. Scratchboard is fun, instantly gratifying and all ages are invited to attend. Scratchboard is made with an archival sealed hardboard that then has a layer of white kaolin clay with black ink on top. You scratch thru the black, expose the white and if desired, you can add color using inks, paints etc.. There will be a limited amount of the scratchbord kits that I designed for Ampersand Art available for sale 1st Thursday.

Big Little Dog Scratchboard Art

2011-08-23T08:33:00.000-05:00

This scratchboard is huge! 2 ft.x3 ft. I've been scratching for days on this. Plus it was harder because it was originally a white Ampersand Art Claybord that I inked myself with Speedball India Ink. The ink on the surface is important as some of them make kind of a hard 'shell' on top of the clay surface. Unfortunately this was the case so I had to sharpen my tools again and again. And my hand is aching from all the tough scratching. Sufferin' for my art! I really prefer using the pre-inked boards.
I based this on a photo of Loca the little chihuahua. My friend Joslyn Baker took the photo (she's a fabulous photographer, check her out) and with her permission I translated it into my style. The original had Loca looking the other way, I reversed it and then added the text on the left. It's from an old 'Story A Day' book that I picked up at an estate sale. It's old enough (early 20's) that it had some really offensive racial stuff in it. Don't worry, I did edit it. Hard to believe they could do that with a dog story. And for children. Come on people!
I mixed it up a bit too. Working title is "Really Big Little Dog" or "The Adventures Of A Really Big Little Dog". It's not finished, but has to be done by Monday so I best get going.

Airstream With Leopard Print

2011-08-21T19:14:00.000-05:00

Designing a leopard print airstream piece continues. Really like this version, hope the customer does as well. This is, of course on Ampersand Art scratchboard....my favorite! The only product I endorse, and would endorse even if I did not receive compensation. (which I do in the form of product and payment for classes I teach) The 5x7 scratchboard kits have been shipped to stores. I'm waiting to find out if NW Arkanasas stores have gotten them. Every time I go into Hobby Lobby to buy something I check the shelves for my kits....not yet, dang it. It still isn't quite real that I've got 6 different kits now out there in the world.
I'll be teaching two classes in September at the Fayetteville Underground. Plan so far is Saturdays 12-3pm the 10th and 24th. I bring the goods and you bring me $15.00. Such a bargain!

Airstream With Leopard Skin Scratchboard Art

2011-08-17T08:19:00.000-05:00

Been working on this piece for a commission. It may or may not be the one they choose. But I've had a good time doing it, so what the heck. If they don't want it someone else will! It's a 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboard with inks. I used the fine needle tool on the two windows. Sandpaper on the green ground and scraper knives on the rest of it. Sprayed with a nice coat of Krylon Workable Fixitif. When I'm not making dogs and monkeys, I'm scratching out what ever folks want...so if you've got a request, give me a holler and I'll see what I can do.
Here is the lowdown...I use and endorse Ampersand Art scratchboard and their other products. I receive compensation from them for teaching and when they license my designs. I would use their scratchboard, regardless of compensation, it's that good. And besides that, they are a great group of folks, who consistently put out a wonderful art product made right here in the U.S. Buy local, support small mom and pop business'.

West Coast Scratchboard Info At Flax Art

2011-08-14T17:07:00.000-05:00

http://flaxart.com/2011/07/scratchboard-easy-to-do-art/

Very cool site of a West Coast (San Fran Bay Area) Art Supply. I'll be teaching a Ampersand Art Scratchbord class there within the next 6-8 Months! I love my life! I love scratching!

Big Dog Scratchboard WIP

2011-08-09T09:50:00.000-05:00

Started this piece yesterday...lots to do before it is done and on the wall at the Fayetteville Underground. It's an 18"x24" Ampersand Art scratchboard. Not sure what is going to happen with the background, maybe some collaged vintage papers, or stencil shapes with color. Pretty sure the dog is going to remain black and white with the only color the eyes, collar and tag. The big ball may end up having some design on it...or at least some color. I spent much of the morning yesterday working on trying to salvage another piece. This was totally finished. Because of the heat here I've had to spray these with fixatif inside. Usually I take them outside during the day, so I have plenty of light to see what coverage is on the the piece while spraying. What has happened while doing it inside, is either I spray too much which gives a haze on the black or I've gotten dust from the ac vent or other crap on the wet surface. Anyhow, I'm painting with india ink on the black trying to get it smooth with a brush. Hard to do. Ampersand sprays the black ink on. May either have to junk the piece (which would make me cry because I love it so much) or live with it as is and tell folks that's how I meant it to be. Will try more ink today, and then spray it tomorrow and hope for the best. I love working with scratchboard, but let me tell you, it's not always as easy as it looks. On to the studio.

More Monkeys In The Garden

2011-08-03T09:14:00.000-05:00

Work in progress. Monkeys in the garden...you know which one. Still have a lot of work to do before hanging this in my show at the Fayetteville Underground Sept. 1. It's big, 24"x36". You can see the outline of this piece a few posts back. Ampersand Art scratchboard with inks and collaged paper. I'm loving how the mountains turned out. (really? I'm loving all of it...) I may put a wash on top of these, and the foreground. Both are vintage papers. I've been working on this at home as my studio at the Underground is packed full. That's a hint for all y'all to start buying some art. If not from me, from other artists. You think you are hurting? Think of those of us who rely on patrons, gallery sales etc...Sales are slow as can be, the extreme heat and the freaking crazy economy is not helping either. I have no desire to be a starving artist. No one in their right mind wants that. So do me and all us artists out there working hard to make your lives a bit brighter, happier and amazing with fresh original art, open your hearts and wallets. Thank you very much. I promise your life will be much better with art in hand and on the walls.

2 Monkeys Gathering Eggs

2011-07-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

I've been working on a 18"x24" Ampersand Art scratchboard this week. The images above show before and after. I based this on a 5"x7" piece I did several years ago. I do that a lot, make a small piece as a 'study' and then later do a larger version. Of course I made some modifications so I wasn't just doing an exact copy. I'm liking this a lot. It will be finished, sprayed with Krylon Workable fixatif and then framed in an Illusions floater frame. It's going into my show at the Fayetteville Underground in September. The Ampersand scratchboard kits I designed should be shipped and into stores (Hobby Lobby) sometime in August. I am thrilled. What a year this has been. Like most years, it's had it's highs and lows, plus plenty of lulls. I continue to heal from the big Thyroid Cancer scare. I'm good. Hope all of you are too.

Airstream Trailer Scratchboards

2011-07-22T08:21:00.000-05:00

So I had an assignment from some friends to produce a scratchboard for a trailer rally raffle price. What could I do? Look through my stock of monkeys, dogs, birds, etc... or create a new design? You know what I did! I developed the basic trailer shape, and then embellished in different ways. Fun stuff. And a nice break from the larger monkey and dogs that I'm doing for my September show at the Fayetteville Underground. KJ if you recognize the trailer, it's yours, or at least it's based on your facebook photo. I of course modified it to make it mine. Working on developing the scratchboard kits for Ampersand Art has changed the way I approach and execute my work. Make the design, trace it onto the board and go to town on it! I used to think I had to freehand everything or it wasn't art. How silly! I now have a pattern and I can make a million different versions of this. Is that wrong? Is it not art, now that I can reproduce again and again? Still feels like art. Still has the touch of my hand on it, and I am not a machine so each one has variation. The ladybug version and the reverse ladybug (#1&2) version are sold. I can make a different version for you if you like. Just drop me a line or check out my etsy shop at the link. I'll be listing some of these soon. May even make some magnets from these designs. All good here. My voice is returning slowly. I am still cancer free. Happy.

Living La Vida Monkey

2011-07-11T14:29:00.000-05:00

Just put this work in progress up at my other blog so check out the wordage regarding it there. This is 24"x36" Ampersand Art Scratchboard. I've got a lot more scratching to do so I've got to get on it. Go to http://www.lindasheets.blogspot.com/ to see more.

Scratchboard Factory at the Fayetteville Underground

2011-07-01T09:34:00.000-05:00

Here's a sneak peek at my latest Ampersand Art scratchboards in progress. These are all 16"x20" and will be in my show at the Fayetteville Underground this coming September. They will change a lot before they get hung. I started adding color yesterday to some of them, I'm loving it. No more sneak peeks until the show. I still have at least 4 or 5 more large pieces to do. Best get started...pronto! Have a happy and safe 4th of July! I'll be hunkered down in the studio.

Scratchboard Art and Medical Bills

2011-06-28T18:05:00.000-05:00

Just finished these two cute dogs for a friend of a friend. They are 3"x5" Ampersand Art Scratchboards. Sample size, not available for purchase in stores. I use them when I do classes and demos. So here's the deal folks...I make money making art (which in this economy is just as hard as you can imagine), also by teaching and demonstrating scratchboard techniques. Recently I had my thyroid removed due to cancer.(like, 2 weeks ago) I'm ok, we caught it early and I'll make a full recovery...but, in the meantime I can hardly raise my voice above a whisper. Teaching right now is out of the question so I'm looking for some help raising some funds. I have insurance, but as a self employed artist in my 50's it's not so great, pretty basic. Meaning, I am getting some hefty bills for tests that they won't cover. I'm bracing myself for the overnight stay in the hospital bill. Anyhow, rather than just asking you for money I'd rather sell you art. That's how I roll. I've got $5.00 magnets and $10.00 2"x2" original pins at the Fayetteville Underground. Message me and I'll post some images. I put the donate paypal button up so you can do either or both. You just need to let me know what you want and I'll ship it out to you. I'm working on setting up an etsy shop, which will make it easier for all of us to see what's what, will post here when it's done. I will also take commissions on pet portraits etc.. Plus, of course some of my larger pieces are available. You can check out my website at http://www.blue-eyedponystudio.com/ to see if something grabs you. Or look at Wally Workman Gallery Austin,TX, Kirchman Gallery Johnson City, TX or Fayetteville Underground Fayetteville, AR. I'll be working the gallery at the Underground tomorrow from 12-3pm. Stop on by and say hello. I'll squeak out as many words as I can before I lose my voice...I only get so many conversations a day lately. It makes life interesting.
Besides my art, while you're at the Underground, there are some really fine pieces by other artists on the walls in the 4 galleries. The show will change before 1st Thursday (July 7th) so come on down and check it out. And then come back for the reception on Thursday the 7th from 5-8pm.

Scratchboard Works in Progress

2011-06-27T08:37:00.000-05:00

Here's a studio view of some of the new scratchboard pieces I'm working on. I'm in production like a wild factory trying to scratch out at least 10 new large (11"x14" to 24"x36") pieces for my solo show at the Fayetteville Underground in September. Not enough time? Maybe, but I'm sure game to try! In fact it's helping me to develop a better approach to design and execution. Used to be I would draw a small rough sketch from a photo or my imagination and then just freehand it on the board and go at it. There would be lots of unknowns, and I would develop and discover the design elements as I worked. Now, I'm doing the sketch full size, refining it and then using the chalk on the back technique (rather than carbon paper), transferring it directly to the board. Faster, better and I'm finding myself more intensely involved in the actual design from the beginning. In the past the initial portion of the drawing was not as interesting to me. Just a means to an end. Now I feel totally passionate and engaged from the start. And it's easier to have 2 or 3 or 4 pieces going at the same time, most importantly I can focus on each of them, going from one to the other seamlessly. The boards are my favorite medium, Ampersand Art scratchboards. They will be framed with Illusion floater frames from Jerry's Artarama. Subjects are monkeys and dogs, I'll probably throw in a few other animals, and maybe a surprise creature, we'll see, I'm sure I'll be surprised where this all goes!

My Review of Illusions Floater Frames

2011-06-24T17:38:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at Jerry's Artarama Art Supplies

Creating the floating canvas effect is simpler than ever! With Illusions, creating the floating canvas effect has never been easier! Back in the 1970's, artists tried to create this floating effect by placing black tape around the edges of their paintings but today you don't need tape! Ill...

Love these frames for scratchboard!

By Blue-Eyed Pony from Fayetteville Arkansas on 6/24/2011

Pros: Versatile

Cons: Good bang for buck

Best Uses: Wall, Framing flat panels

Was this a gift?: No

I use these to frame flat panel scratchboards. The clips are screwed into frame and then glued with e6000 to the back of the board. They are perfect for my work. Only downside is you have to be careful, when dropped they ding pretty badly. Not wood, not sure what the composition is, but easily repaired.

(legalese)

Scratchboard Dog Kits Coming to a Store Near you Soon!

2011-06-21T10:48:00.000-05:00

Well, here I go again...time to toot my horn a bit more! This is another one of the designs I licensed with Ampersand Art for a new series of Scratchbord Kits. This is 'Bertie Dog' and the kit contains a 5"x7" board, a tool, a pattern to trace and my instructions for making this yourself! Really, you can do this! This make great gifts to all ages, although kids under 13 or so should be supervised because the tool is sharp. They are not in the stores yet, but soon, darlin', soon! I can't wait to walk into a store and look at them on the shelf. I also hope to be doing a lot of workshops and classes at some of the stores to help folks discover how much fun this medium is.

I'll keep y'all posted here and on facebook for those, friend me or follow me here to stay informed.

The cool thing about these kits is; you can follow my instructions and pattern exactly and have great results, or, you can throw in your own ideas to the mix and get equally good results. Changes such as, adding color to the white of the dog...make it blue, green, yellow, what the heck! Instead of a crown you can pop a little red fez on top of the head. Or maybe have a big white bone shape floating up above! See what I mean? This is not your mother or father's 'paint by numbers' project. One of the things I love about these kits is they are a really affordable introduction to scratchboard, once you get hooked, the possibilities are endless!

I'm so excited about this I can hardly contain myself. Stay tuned...There will be 6 different designs available, Monkeys, Dogs and Still Life.

Linda Sheets: Linda Sheets: Scratchboard Monkeys In A Store Near...

2011-06-13T15:40:00.000-05:00

Linda Sheets: Linda Sheets: Scratchboard Monkeys In A Store Near...: "Linda Sheets: Scratchboard Monkeys In A Store Near You and More!... : 'Here is some amazing, exciting news I've been sitting on for a bit to..."

3 Monkeys

2011-06-09T08:08:00.000-05:00

This 18"x24" Ampersand Art scratchboard is on it's way to Wally Workman Gallery in Austin. They are having a group show in July and these '3 Monkeys In A Boat (Without A Paddle)' will be hanging there. I love this piece. Usually when I'm done with a board, I'm done....on to the next one. This one was so enjoyable every step of the way, it's a little hard to see it go. It's great when it happens that way. I hope the public looking at this reads and feels the joy. That's what it's all about for me. If I'm happy making art, I want you to be happy looking at it. I have my share of dark feelings and dark art, believe me. I could fill a couple of galleries with that. The point is though, I'd rather express the goodness. It's a glass half (or 3/4) full kind of view. Why not? Life is so freaking short and hard, might as well make it long and good too. It's odd, this piece is both comical and dark. Being on the rough water in a boat with no paddle, not a good situation. But, somehow it is also dear and amusing. This piece took more time than most of them do, I was scratching day and night. It's priced at $700.00 framed and ready to hang on your wall. I'm off to work in my studio at the Fayetteville Underground! Cheers!

Scratchboard in Johnson City Texas

2011-06-06T16:28:00.001-05:00

Here are a few photos from the class/demo I taught in Johnson City Texas at davino and davinci. It was a great day. All were wonderful and fun. You should check out the classes they offer there. And while you are at it check out the gallery down the road. We used some of my design patterns to trace on the Ampersand Art scratchboard. It was pretty sweet to watch folks as they played with my designs and made them their own! I've got a great life.

Scratchboard Class/Demo

2011-05-25T10:21:00.000-05:00

Hey folks, I'll be in Johnson City, TX tomorrow from 1-4 teaching a scratchboard class. Check it out and sign up (small fee) still have room for a few more. http://www.davinoanddavinci.com/

I'm also going to be at Jerry's Artarama in Austin, TX Friday from noon-3pm giving a demo of scratchboard for Ampersand Art. If you can't make the class, come to the demo. What's the difference you might say? The class on Thursday will be more intensive, and all will leave with a finished (or close to finished) piece. We will be focusing on one or two designs during the course of 3 hours.

The demo at Jerry's is a bit more hectic, as it is right in the store with people coming and going. You'll be able to try the product, but completing a drawing or getting my full attention is a bit harder. It's a good time to get an introduction to the medium, pick up a sample and ask questions. No matter what you do, try to come to one or both. Scratchboard is fun, and instantly gratifying. And unlike most instantly gratifying things, it's really good for you! Most everyone can do this, and I'm happy to share what I know!

Early Scratch work-Grasshopper

2011-05-13T14:37:00.000-05:00

I was downloading a thumbdrive load of images from the home computer to my studio computer the other day and got a slideshow experience of 'This is your art life, Linda Sheets'! As it scrolled through everything I was amused, sometimes pleased, and often horrified at my work from the last 10 years. Wow, oh wowy has my technique changed and improved. I'm posting a grasshopper that was scratched out on scratch paper (I think Scratch-Art is the company that makes this) and glued on panel. If I remember right, this was around 3"x5" and mounted on a black 8"x10" inch panel. I believe it was around 8-9 years ago, and I think it was sold at a show (don't know which one, or to whom) It looks so strange without color on it. At that time I was terrified of using color. The only reason I started adding it is that a huge blotch appeared on a finished 16"x20" Ampersand Art scratchbord after I sprayed it. (Let that be a lesson to you, it was winter and I had a lot of hand lotion on and it soaked into the board. I always wear gloves now!)I had spent so much time on it and was determined to salvage it somehow so I painted some acrylic on it. The rest, as they say, is history. I hardly ever do just black and white boards anymore...and I don't use the paper scratchboard either. It's certainly an ok product for classrooms or experimenting with; it's just not an archival, acid free, professional product. That's the endorsement part of this post. I'm glad blogger is back up, I've been wanting to post for a few days. If anyone is reading this, drop me a line, let me know what you think...of anything. I also welcome new followers. I'm an Aries, we are known as natural leaders, so I naturally need people who will 'follow'. Later peeps!

Black Cat Scratchboard

2011-05-10T08:24:00.000-05:00

Although I haven't been posting much lately, I have been busy making new art. This is one of the latest 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboards. Until now, I've resisted using cats as subject matter and here is why; Most dog owners look at my boards and if it resembles their dog in some way they buy it. Cat owners, on the other hand, want it to look exactly like their kitty, thus, my first attempts at cat scratches have gathered dust and went down to the bottom of the pile. I'll let you draw your own conclusions from that. I really like both cats and dogs so I don't discriminate. Due to a recent commission for a friend (3 different cats) I broke through my resistance, and in fact had a really good time making them. So here is one example, let me know what you think. This piece is available, framed, for $100.00. Currently it is in my studio here in Arkansas. If you want it, drop me a line and I'll ship it out to you pronto! I'm always happy to do commissions so send me photos and dollars folks!

2 Grey Owl Scratchboards

2011-04-03T15:54:00.000-05:00

A friend suggested a 'grey' version of the owls I've been working on. Here you go Ryan...2 Grey Owls. They are 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboards. I used the original designs that I had done a few days ago, made patterns and transferred them to new boards. A fancy way of saying, I traced 'em. No shame in that. Learning how to do that (I've been working on designs and instructions for kits) has opened up a whole new world. I used to freehand all of my pieces. Now I can knock out a design and then do numerous knock offs of my own designs! I had a lot of fun with these. Used the basic scratch knife, fiberglass eraser, and the bigger scraper knife. I've got these in the studio right now, and I added just a faint touch of orange to the eyes with ink. I couldn't bear to leave them just black, white and grey. Interesting, when I first started scratching I stayed strictly black and white as I was afraid of color. (really that means I had little experience with color)

Anyhow, the latest in my world is; First Thursday is coming up at the Fayetteville Underground this week...I'm hanging some new pieces there tomorrow...Friday was my birthday, I'm older and probably wiser.

Still Scratching-Bud the Dog

2011-03-31T07:35:00.000-05:00

Early morning post. I'm drinking my coffee, listening to Shawn Colvin on the ipod. Thinking about the time passing by. Can't help it, tomorrow is my birthday. I'm not real pleased about racking up the years and the physical changes it brings, but I am happy to be alive, making art. Hoping to keep on keeping on for at least another 40 years or so! My Grandmother is 99 and still going, so there is a possibility... The art offering for today is a sweet made up dog named Bud. He's an 8"x10" Ampersand Art Scratchboard with a combination of Liquitex Acrylic Ink and Clayboard ink. I'm off to tape and float sheetrock today at the house project. Will be so happy when this is done. I spent most of the day yesterday at the Fayetteville Underground in my studio and working my shift at the E Street Gallery. I miss it, love being there, looking forward to spending more time there in a month or so. Check it out, there are some really fine artists there making some really great art.

Blue-Eyed Yella Dog Scratchboard

2011-03-30T07:35:00.000-05:00

I just love this blue-eyed yella dog! It's a 11"x14" Ampersand Art scratchboard with Clayboard inks. Based on a photo of one of my favorite dog friends, Ruby. She's a more reddish color and doesn't have blue eyes, but hey, using my artist license folks...I've shipped this off to Ampersand to be included in the booth design for the Namta conference in Phoenix AZ coming up in April. I'm flying out with the company to do some demos and work the booth. Exciting! Fun! My birthday is coming up this Friday. Going for some R&R with my sweetheart Thursday thru Sunday. I need it. I've been hitting it hard at the house remodel. Was hanging sheetrock most of the day yesterday. Banging around under the house the day before. My hands and body are aching. I guess I'm either out of shape (which is probably true) or getting too damned old (more truth) for this kind of work. Glad I do scratchboard and collage rather than large scale stone carving or other extreme physical art. I'm happy to be alive, living where I'm living, doing what I'm doing, filled with love.

More Scratchboard Owl

2011-03-26T07:45:00.000-05:00

This is another of the 5"x7" scratchboard owls. I had a lot of fun scratching this out, went pretty quickly. It's the usual, Ampersand Art scratchboard product with inks (some Clayboard inks, some Liquitex Acrylic ink) I like brushing the ink on and then carefully pulling it off with a paper towel as you can see in the wings and the eyes.

Spent the last week remodeling a house. Got a few moments in the studio to frame some large pieces, those will be shipped to Austin to Ampersand offices to be a part of the conference I'm going to in Phoenix in April. More about that later. I'm up to 30 followers, whoo hoo, makes me happy. Now, what would make me even happier is to have more comments from all y'all. Talk to me people!

Scratchboard Owl

2011-03-25T07:22:00.000-05:00

Been working on some new designs. A girl can't do the Dog and Monkey show every day...can she? I used my favorite medium, Ampersand Art scratchboard with a variety of inks and tools.
It's a 5"x7" available for purchase at $100.00 framed. This guy looks a bit angry. I've done several variations and just moving the location of the eyes changes the mood...will post others in the next few days.
I've been revisiting my past profession of construction. I bought a house with two business partners and we've been tearing out walls, fixing termite damage and the latest as of yesterday, total gutting of the bathroom. I've been pushing and pushing to finish as soon as we can so I can get back to making art. My body hurts, my soul is hurting more. I find I have to just put on the blinders, ignore my body and soul, and keep moving forward to get through this. I know how to do it, did for 30 years, but do I want to do it much longer is the question. The ultimate goal is for me to live there, moving in sometime in May. Wish me luck! At least today I can start later than 8:00am.

Chicken Chicken Scratchboard

2011-03-16T09:51:00.001-05:00

My latest. 'Chicken Chicken' is the name. I'm sitting here this morning thinking about all the troubles in Japan, and all over the world. My biggest trouble this morning was the internet was slow! Good lord, what a big baby I am, compared to what others are enduring right now! Ok, I promise not to be an ugly, arrogant American, wanting what I want, when I want it. I'm working on it. This chicken, chicken is how I feel right now. What would I do if everything I had was washed away in a storm/earthquake disaster? Would I keep on keeping on? Or would I curl up into a ball, hoping someone else would take care of it all? I don't honestly know. I'd like to think I could push through but jeez louise, on this day, I am soft and spoiled. Would I be part of a revolution to overthrow a bad government? Would I, really? I'm here, in my comfortable home, full belly, about to go to my nice studio/gallery space, thanking my lucky stars for all I've got and sending what good thoughts I can out to the rest of the world, hoping for the best.
The skinny on the above is this; 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboard with inks. I spray fixed it with Krylon Workable Fixitif. By the way, Krylon customer service is great. I've had a few spray problems lately and so called their hot line. Got some good advice and they are sending out some new product for me to try. So, besides the fact that the world is falling apart, I've still got art to make and stuff to make it with. What a life.

Even More Cat Scratchboard!

2011-03-10T09:10:00.001-06:00

Of the three cat subject scratchboards I've done recently this is one of my favorites. This is 'Munchie' and it is a 3"x5" Ampersand Art scratchboard. I used Clayboard inks and a couple of different tools that Ampersand sells. The three kitties will be shipped off to their home in a week or so. I've enjoyed this exercise. It's good for me to step outside the dog & monkey show. I'd be happy to do more cats now. I don't know why I avoided them, I really am a cat person.

I'm fixing to put together a couple of classes here in Fayetteville in the next two weeks. Will post details soon. I'm off to work in the studio at the Fayetteville Underground. I did my 3 hour gig in the gallery yesterday and made a sale for one of the artists. Whoo hoo!...

More Cat Scratchboard

2011-03-09T08:48:00.000-06:00

Here is 'Bumpkins', the second in my series of what will be three cat scratchboards. I did this on an Ampersand Art 3"x5" scratchboard. (This size is only available as a sample, I use them when I teach and am always happy when I have a few left over). The color is a combination of Clayboard inks and Liquidtex Acrylic ink (my favorite red). I gave it a spray of Krylon Workable Fixitif and it's done!

I got some great news last night regarding a project to create a product using my designs. Can't talk too much about it yet, suffice to say, YIPPIE! I am one happy, happy, artist today. Examples of my work will be all over the country soon! I will fill you in when I can.

I start my first shift working in the gallery at the Fayetteville Underground from 12-3 today. Hope I manage to sell some art for the folks hanging in the four gallery spaces there.

I'm stuck at 28 followers and while I appreciate each and every one of you, I'd love to at least add two more so I can be at 30. I wouldn't mind going above that number as well...hint, hint. If you know someone who might enjoy seeing my work and reading my posts please forward this to them and ask them to line up, and sign up! Thanks and bye for now.

Blue Eyed Cat

2011-03-07T20:49:00.000-06:00

This is a 3"x5" Ampersand Art scratchboard that I've been working on for a friend. As you can see it is a cat named 'Chiquita'. I've got two other cats in this series for her, will post those in the next few days. I haven't done many cat scratchboards, don't know why, I like cats as well as I like dogs. Maybe they are just harder to capture visually? Anyhow, I'm pretty darned happy with this one and the others. In fact I was so delighted today that I was giggling while doing them. Goofy eh? I love my job!
Today has had an element of sadness. A guy who was a regular institution around here died in a fire at his shop this morning. His name is Bruce Walker and the shop was 'Flying Possum Leather'. I only met him once, he reminded me of an old hippie. (funny that I say that, we are the same age) He and his shop were very 'old school' He didn't have a website, or even posted hours. He was a real, honest to god, character. The community is pretty stunned by it. I'm new here and I'm stunned.

Happy Little Bluebird

2011-03-07T09:29:00.001-06:00

Well, I know this little bluebird may not appear to be happy, but it is...really! Mostly because it sold this past Thursday night at the Fayetteville Underground! I'm happy it's going on someone else's wall. I have very little attachment to my work after it is done, framed and hung. I'm on to the next just as quickly as I can go. This is small, 3"x5" Ampersand Art scratchboard with ink for the color. I'm working on some videos to post online for future scratchboard instruction purposes, will keep you posted on that. (look at me, I'm imagining that someone reads these posts!) And today the proposal for the 5"x7" kits goes out to retailers. Here's hoping something really good comes of it for all us all. Meanwhile, I just keep scratching and scratching...
I scratched out a different version of this (yellow and turned to the right) to fill the space on the wall in the gallery.

Fayetteville Underground First Thursday

2011-03-02T22:45:00.000-06:00

Here is what I've got up on the wall in the Fayetteville Underground 'Vault' Gallery. Tomorrow night from 5-8ish is the big First Thursday reception. If you are any where near this area come on down and eat, drink and look at art. Most of the artists will be there either mingling or hanging out in their studios. I hope to see a lot of folks coming through. There is some really great art on the walls, I'm really impressed with my fellow studio artists.

I will be talking scratchboard, (of course) and such...taking names and emails for future Ampersand Art scratchboard classes. I've also been working on setting up an area to do encaustic painting. Not sure exactly what that will all turn out to be. Stay tuned, I'll keep you posted. I'm excited about working with a new material and maybe going in a new direction. Linda does not live only for the dog and monkey show....really!
The weather has been gorgeous here, I can hear the spring peepers outside. All is good in my world, hope the same is true for all of you. We truely are lucky folks here in the US.

Scratchboard Flowers

2011-03-02T07:00:00.001-06:00

This is me just playing around with a 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboard. I'm still in the process of adding color with inks, will post that later. This is not any great masterpiece by any stretch of my vivid imagination. Just an exercise to keep the knife in my hand, scratching on the board. When I find myself lacking inspiration I just knock out some piece that has no expectation of greatness. When I'm done playing with it I can go back to being a 'serious artist'. And I really mean that tongue in cheek...I can't make monkeys and dogs and funky still life studies and consider myself a serious, serious artist. It's all for fun folks!
I'm getting ready for 1st Thursday at the Fayetteville Underground. Will put up post about that with photos later. Also, still working on some exciting design projects with Ampersand...more on that when I know more!

New Studio at Fayetteville Underground!

2011-02-19T10:10:00.001-06:00

I'm very happy to report that I've been accepted into the Fayetteville Underground as a studio artist. I worked like crazy for 3 days to get set up for a reception this past Thursday. Here are some photos of my studio so far. Usually they have a big doin's for 1st Thursday but it was rescheduled twice due to the huge snowfall we got earlier this month. Looking forward to having a show here and hanging with other artists. I've updated my website so take a look here. I'm heading to Austin to meet up with the folks at Ampersand Art who make the best scratchboard I've ever used! (besides all that, they are just the most delightful people I know...)

Finished Assemblage Chickens Counted

2011-02-08T12:39:00.001-06:00

I finished this commission in record time. God, I love making these assemblages...I love selling them even more though. I stopped making them, for awhile, because they were stacking up in my studio, taking up more space than I have to spare. I hate to be so driven by monetary concerns, but the reality is, art is not selling as well right now and I'm in the business of making and selling art. I have no desire to be a starving artist. Never did, that's why I dropped out of art school to become a plumber. There is nothing glamorous or desirable about poverty to me. I once knew someone who's father is very wealthy and he would buy her a car, tv etc...in addition to paying for her college education. She turned her back on all of that (after being done with school of course) and basically took a vow of poverty. So interesting to me, that's the last thing I would have wanted to do as I struggled to pay rent and tuition with little help from my family. Seems to me, those who choose a 'vow of poverty' don't really know poverty. Or haven't been raised in poverty worrying about bills being paid or food to eat and so forth. Even my poverty experience is still much better than the majority of the people in the world who have so very little in comparison. Oh my, I'm on run with my opinions now, eh? What better place than my blog.

Counting Chickens Under The Tree Of Money Assemblage

2011-02-03T15:54:00.000-06:00

Working on this commission for a client at Wally Workman Gallery. This is a 2d sketch that I put together using pieces and parts of photos, and then painted and drew on, etc.. Kind of a collage of sorts. I'm so psyched up to be doing this. I love assemblage work, just haven't done much lately because it doesn't sell very easily at the galleries. The finished product will be 3d and around 11"x14". As I said in the above title, it's currently known as; 'Counting Chickens Under The Tree Of Money'. After weeks and weeks of scratching away at scratchboard designs for Ampersand Art ,I am relieved and happy to have this break. I'll get back to scratchboard soon enough as I've got 15 new pieces that need inked.
It's cold here, sounds like it's cold just about everywhere. I'm hunkered down in the little blue house on the highway. Stay warm and healthy folks.

Scratchboard Demo Round MountainArt Group

2011-01-26T07:28:00.001-06:00

This past Saturday I had the pleasure of demonstrating Ampersand Art scratchboard to a lively and highly creative group of women. I love teaching and even more, watching others discover how much fun scratchboard board is. Everyone has a different take on it...I think my next class may have everyone doing the same design, just to see how different they will all be. I'm so happy to be associated with this product, I never get tired of scratching away.

Yesterday I spent the day doing plumbing repairs at a rent house that I invested in with a few friends. This is a brief, really brief, return to my past life. After 30 some years of doing various home repair work, I can say I really prefer making art. Even on the bad days (and there are so few of them) when I'm blocked or not able to do what I want to do with an art piece, I can't imagine wanting to go back to the construction life. Although, in this situation, I'm glad I can do the repairs myself and save the big bucks.

Today is the seventh anniversary of the death of my father. I'm missing him, and yet, as they say, time does help to heal the loss. Fitting that I'm spending so much time this week on plumbing and fixin' as he was a brilliant plumber, and as it turned out, a pretty great human being. Two of his sisters, my aunts, died this month and it is hard to lose those connections to the family. It is a reminder to continue to live in this moment, doing what makes me happy and whole.

I'm off to build a wall, install a toilet, paint ceilings and put up ceiling fans.

I hope a few of you enjoy reading this blog. I'm still not sure if anything I'm saying or doing is beneficial, or adds anything to this crazy world. It's still a work in progress for sure. I'll just keep scratching through...

Scratchboard Demo at Round Mountain!

2011-01-22T09:42:00.000-06:00

This is one of my older scratchboards...called 'Comma Monkey' (of course!) Besides making the art, one of the hardest things for me is coming up with a title. Thus, I usually just assign a descriptive title. I'm working on this. I sometimes let whatever gallery it's in make one up. Sad, eh?
Today I'm scheduled to do a scratchboard demo sponsored by Ampersand Art www.ampersandart.com at the Round Mountain Art Group here in Fayetteville Ark. Should be a fun, fun day. I've got at least 10 people signed up and I'm looking forward to bringing more converts into the fold. If there are any folks out there in cyberland who are part of an art group, or know of a great retail spot that carries scratchboard, and would be a good prospect for a demo/class, let me know and maybe we can book something in the next few months. One of my resolutions for 2011 is to do more classes, and make and sell more art. So, help me out here!
Concerning the above image...what can I say, this is from about 5 years ago, and I am so much better at this now. Really! Good golly almighty, this is such juvenile work! Thank the gods for maturity. I mean, I still make many, many, monkeys, many, many BETTER monkeys!

Best Of The Web Pocket Change Become.com

2011-01-19T19:27:00.000-06:00

Hey, check it out...this blog is listed on the Become.com Best Of The Web today. http://pocketchange.become.com/2011/01/best-of-the-web-be-home-16.html I'm in with some very good blogs, oh my! I hope you'll take a look at them and explore the whole site, there's lots to see. Good stuff. I'm pretty amazed that I'm in there with the others, but I'll take it! One of my New Year resolutions is to learn more about the online world and make it work better for me. (yeah, we'll see if that happens, right?) I've got to get better at this blogging biz. I will stop at nothing less than world domination by Scratchboard! Check out the products at http://www.ampersandart.com/ If I can't have the world domination thing, how about at least a pretty good following of folks who like to scratch out art? Ok, I'd best calm down now. Way too much caffeine for me today. I would put up an image if I could get it together. My laptop (a very sweet blue and black Toshiba) is sitting at Best Buy waiting for the Geeks to fix it and I'm using a brand new equally sweet little Toshiba netbook right now, and so far, loving it. It's almost small enough to tuck in my back pocket! More postings and artwork to come in the next few days.

Scratchboard ala Cheryl Finfrock

2011-01-19T08:05:00.000-06:00

Here is a really wild scratchboard by my friend Cheryl Finfrock. She says she gets some of her inspiration from dreams. Wow, some dreams! I don't know what it means, but I do know that I like it. Check her out at http://www.cherylfinfrock.com/ This board is made by my favorite art company. http://www.ampersandart.com/ I love their surfaces...is that crazy? I think not. Someday I will learn how to link websites to the highlighted name. Oh my, that would be fancy and all. But honestly, I'm too busy making art to worry about that right now. You get there all the same, right? So check her out, and if you know of some cool art that is or isn't scratchboard give me a holla, I'm always looking for new inspiration.

Scratchboard or Woodcut?

2011-01-17T09:24:00.000-06:00

This is a woodcut of one of my favorite artists, Lisa Brawn, check out her website. http://www.lisabrawn.com/ I met her in Austin when she was there for her first show at Yard Dog Gallery. http://www.yarddog.com/ (this was a big honking, successful deal!) We had dinner with mutual friends and I totally enjoyed hanging out with her, and of course love the quirky gal that she is. Even more than that though, her output of these woodcuts is freaking amazing. Besides the fact that they are absolutely awesome...I'm sure she must spend every waking hour in the studio making these as there are so many! They are woodcuts in every sense of the word, and yet, she apparently doesn't print from them as is the tradition. They are painted and hung as the finished product. They remind me of scratchboards (so this is of course some of the reason I am attracted to them) when you see them 2D online or in photos. In person they have depth and texture. I've never seen anything like these, and most probably you won't either. Unless of course they start 'knocking them off' for sale in home stores and such. Please, for the love of pete, don't do that! But do go to her website and buy some!

More Things That Look Like Scratchboard

2011-01-15T10:51:00.000-06:00

Not Scratchboard, at least not as I know it (www.ampersandart.com) but definitely Scraffito and most assuredly cool stuff. Ok, I have to admit, I know Billy Ray Mangham personally. Even if I didn't, I'd still love Eye of the Dog Art Center where he and amazing artist wife Beverly make really great art and have sweet classes. Check it out at www.eotdac.com Someday I will own one or two or three of these platters...a gal can dream!

Things That Look Like Scratchboard

2011-01-14T14:40:00.000-06:00

Check out Fayetteville Underground for some fabulous colored porcelain works by Susy Siegele and Mike Haley. I'm always attracted to Scraffito, or things that look like Scratchboard to me. Go to www.fayettevilleunderground.blogspot.com/ and scroll down to January 2011. They are up in the gallery right now and if you are in the NW Arkansas area the whole gallery is really worth a stop and see. Amazing artists here. I hope to be a part of this gallery soon! More things that look like Scratchboard and new boards by me soon...

Artists Statements

2011-01-07T11:24:00.001-06:00

I'm feeling like a little crazy, blue bird....of happiness!

Working on my resume, cd of images and artist statement to apply to be a studio artist at the Fayetteville Underground Studio/Gallery here in Arkansas. Check it out at http://www.fayettevilleunderground.com/ I went there last night for the 1st Thursday event and the joint was hopping! Full of really great art, snacks and people. Made me think that I really want to be a part of this group. If they'll have me.
So, the subject of today's post: Artists Statements. I have to do one for the application process and I'm really resistant to the whole idea. I've done them before under great duress. Always have been turned off by the 'blah,blah,blah, Art and subconscious pursuit of some weird collection of words and thoughts so that you think I'm significant, smart and special, blah, blah'. Can you tell I feel strongly about this? It's pretty simple for me, it's pretty much black and white with a smattering of color thrown into the mix. I make marks on paper or scratchboard or whatever else happens to be in front of me. I don't know if it all means something or some means nothing. I just do it because the doing of it makes me feel better about myself and the world around me. I of course hope that somehow it makes others feel something too, but I've long ago given up on the idea that I can make anyone feel anything specific just by the 'power' of my art. Of course I want people to enjoy it, and buy it, otherwise I have to go back to fixing houses and toilets. Any suggestions from any of you out there on constructing one of these statements would be helpful. I don't have any comments on this blog for the year 2011 yet, and always appreciate knowing that at least one person reads this (besides me) so have at it if you want. I will probably just cobble something together from my statement at Wally Workman Gallery http://www.wallyworkmangallery.com/ and my bio on the http://www.blue-eyedponystudio.com/ website. As far as statements go, I really feel I lack an original idea, kind of funny coming from a creative mind, don't ya think? The art at the beginning of the post is a 3"x5" Ampersand Art scratchboard http://www.ampersandart.com/ with clayboard inks. It's sitting in my studio and is for sale, as is everything I make. It comes in a sweet little gallery frame for $50.00 and is ready to hang. If you want it give me a shout here or email me at the link at my website. Happy, Happy Winter time!

Scratchboard Reunion

2011-01-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

Just returned from a whirlwind trip to Dallas yesterday. I'm trying to make 'lemonade from lemons' as the purpose of the trip was to pick up my artwork from a Gallery that was closing there. Well, not really closing, but changing it's focus to carrying only the art of it's namesake. While this is not really a happy event, and in fact, somewhat depressing, I have to say I am delighted to be re-united with some older pieces I hadn't seen in a while. Above are "4 Red Daisies" and "Genial Dog". The former is a 14"x18" Ampersand Art scratchboard (http://www.ampersandart.com)that/ incorporates vintage paper collage with water based oil paint. "Genial Dog" is an 8"x10" Ampersand Art scratchboard with vintage paper collage and acrylic paint. Would I rather have sold both of them? Yes indeed, I sure would have. And if anyone reading this wants them I'd be happy to pack 'em up and ship them out. In the meantime I'm enjoying seeing them on my wall. New works are always great, of course, but revisiting old is pretty awesome too.

I've had an invitation to link blogs with this site http://pocketchange.become.com/category/home-and-garden It's pretty cool, I hope you'll check it out, I plan to spend the next few days exploring there. Connections...important stuff in this day and age.

My New Years Resolution is to post more here, in addition my goal is to have more followers (I'm an Aries, we LOVE to be leaders!) So if you just stumbled onto this blog, sign up and line up folks, please, I won't lead you astray (at least I don't think so). I promise to be posting every few days with new/old artwork and whatever amusing, informative text I can squeeze out of my self.
If you have comments, jump in...I spend a lot of time alone in the studio and it's nice to have social stimulation!

Happy, Happy Scratchboard Holiday!

2010-12-15T13:42:00.001-06:00

I've been very busy scratching away on Ampersand scratchboard for the past few weeks. Not much time for the blog...but I'll try to be better in 2011. This is my current studio table! Had a great couple of weeks in Austin, TX doing demos at Jerry's Artarama and the Austin Palette Club. Also had a fun time out at Eye of the Dog Art Center selling art at their home show. Now I'm back home and working on a series of scratchboards. Can't post them yet, will put them up soon as I can. Suffice to say, I am working on some big, fun, future business.
Today is my Grandmother's 99th birthday. She is a wonder...still lives alone and gets around pretty well. Hope I got a big dose of her genes!

Little Houses

2010-11-23T08:16:00.000-06:00

More little houses. Most of these are on Ampersand Art hardboard, with a variety of sources for the paper collage work. I'm fond of using 1940's magazines and other cool old paper. The more brown and brittle the better! The four little houses are 4- 3"x5" boards mounted into frames that I build with my own two old hands. The three little houses are 5"x7" boards. I started this little house project about a year ago. Didn't know at the time where it was leading me, I just knew I had to make at least 100 of these...and I did. They sat around in a box for 7 months until inspiration struck me up on a ridge top in the middle of nowhere while living in, what else, a little house! These are all available, in various sizes and prices. I've relocated into a larger house, with hot water and flush toilet etc.. Realized the other day that it's been about 5 years since I've lived someplace that had more than one room! I'm happy to have more space, but it's nice to know I can live with less if need be.

Time to get scratching!

2010-11-16T20:32:00.000-06:00

Okay, okay, break time is over now. I spent last weekend in Austin doing scratchboard demonstrations and sales in the Ampersand Booth at the Texas Art Educator's Assoc. conference. It was a true shot in the arm! Just what I needed to get back on track with my art. Lack of sales, be damned! I need to make art, if it sells in the galleries, great. If not, I still have to make it anyway. I've been doing my 'little houses' series like crazy. Same format; panel painted black, collaged vintage paper houses, little people in the doors and windows with red paint on the background. Have built frames and have been putting it all together for the upcoming thanksgiving show at the Eye of the Dog Art Center in San Marcos. Can't wait, big fun. Meanwhile here is one of my many little house works for your enjoyment.

Taking a break from art n' all

2010-10-28T16:49:00.000-05:00

I've been taking a bit of a break for the past few months. Moving from state to state, which is much harder as I get older, and trying to figure out what is next for me. Art is not selling well right now at the galleries and I'm scrambling to make a buck or two. In addition, I am wondering what it is I can add to the world of self indulgent blogs etc...do I really have anything to contribute? There you have it folks, check back once in a while to see if I've had a breakthough (or a breakdown!)

Little Wacked Out Bird Scratchboard

2010-08-19T18:10:00.000-05:00

Scratched this out while doing an Ampersand Art www.ampersandart.com demo at Artisan Santa Fe last month. Wonder what I'll do while at the Austin Jerry's Artarama demo this Saturday (August 21st) from noon to 3pm. Wonder who will come and what they will scratch out? Come on out and play!

Pink Eared Pup Scratchboard

2010-08-13T20:06:00.000-05:00

My latest 5"x7" Ampersand Art www.ampersandart.com scratchboard! Had a great time scratching out this pink eared pup! I'll be at Jerry's Artarama on Saturday August 21st from 12noon to 3pm giving a free scratchboard demo, compliments of Ampersand and Jerry's. Google Jerry's Austin to get more info and address.

Little Dog Scratchboard

2010-08-05T09:49:00.000-05:00

Just finished this 5"x7" scratchboard based on a chihuahua dog. Had a great Ampersand Art http://www.ampersandart.com/ scratchboard demo in Santa Fe at Artisan Santa Fe art store a week ago. Shout out to James who put it all together and participated! I'm on the road and will soon be in Austin Tx at Jerry's Artarama to do a scratchboard demo on Saturday August 21st! Also participating in a group show at Wally Workman Gallery http://www.wallyworkmangallery.com/ the month of August.

Little Houses

2010-07-22T08:57:00.001-05:00

Ok, so, my latest obsession is making these little houses. This one is 9- 5"x7" panels mounted and framed. They are basically all the same...2 windows, door, chimney etc...and yet, of course they are all different. It's been shipped to Wally Workman Gallery in Austin for the August show. http://www.wallyworkmangallery.com/ The materials are gleaned from my extensive stack of vintage papers, magazines and even a bible and such! My goal, for the most part is to get rid of this stack. In the meantime, I've found a theme that really speaks to me. Home, where the heart is, where we nest. Right now my home is temporary. I don't know where I will be for the winter as the cabin has no heat and promises to be cold and drafty. Time will tell I guess.

The Neighborhood

2010-07-14T18:07:00.001-05:00

Just in case you were wondering what I've been working on...Here is just one of many in my 'little house' series. I've been making these small collage houses with vintage paper and red acrylic paint for the past year. Recently I decided they needed to be framed in groups. I'm thinking of calling this "The Neighborhood". Although, it could be called, 'The Window in the Outhouse' as I retrieved this window frame from the outhouse at my best friend and neighbors place. In fact I've been staring at this frame, just sitting against the wall for at least the past 5 years, or at least every time I visit that 'little' house of hers. A few weeks ago I asked if I could have it and this is the result. I like it a lot. This will probably be shipped to Wally Workman Gallery soon for the 30th anniversary group show in August. Check out the website at http://www.wallyworkmangallery.com/
Other news, I will be going out to Santa Fe NM for a few days the end of the month and will be doing a free scratchboard demo representing Ampersand Art http://www.ampersandart.com/ at Artisan Santa Fe
http://www.artisan-santafe.com/ on Weds. July 28th at 1:30-4:30 (or there abouts). Come on out if you are in the area, or give a call for more information 1-505-954-4179

Two Dogs

2010-06-24T12:51:00.001-05:00

My latest finished piece. It's a 9"x12" Ampersand Art scratchboard www.ampersandart.com I'm loving combining collage, inks and acrylic paint on these boards! This was from a photo I took of a couple of friends dogs. Obviously I took some liberty with them and the background!

Blue-Eyed Circus Pony

2010-06-17T18:03:00.000-05:00

I knocked this 5"x7" Ampersand Art www.ampersandart.com scratchboard out the other day at my new studio in the Ozarks. It's called 'Blue-Eyed Circus Pony'. It's based it on a photo I took at an antique shop of a carousel horse there. I used Liquidtex acrylic inks for the color, some on the existing black surface and some on the white clay after scratching away the black ink. This reminds me of a crazy white horse I had as a youngster. She was 'green broke' and took me on a wild ride one day...imagine me getting thrown as she ran down the field with me being dragged behind with my foot stuck in the stirrup! Classic. Luckily I was not hurt...well maybe a bit embarrassed at my inability to tame her. And wisely enough, I never got on her again!

New Dog Scratch

2010-06-10T14:43:00.001-05:00

Finished scratching this dog out the other day. This is a 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboard, check out their website to see all of their products! www.ampersandart.com Today I added color to the background, eyes and collar. I haven't gotten a photo of the finished product yet, just wanted to get a posting up as I'm only going online every couple of days or so. That's a big difference from how I was using it before. I've had a few withdrawal pains but think I'll survive!

Moving...

2010-05-26T17:16:00.000-05:00

I've taken sometime off to get moved to a new locale, new state, new life. Check back in a few weeks, hopefully I will have high speed internet (which is damned hard to come by in the very rural, rural...)and some new scratchboards. I hope to start up demos for Ampersand Art www.ampersandart.com in Missouri and Arkansas soon as well. Will post here as soon as I can.

Wiener Dog Scratchboard Drawings!

2010-05-06T20:33:00.000-05:00

Here are two scratchboard versions of a wiener dog that belongs to a friend of mine! This is a contrast to the previous post of the cubist version...These are of course Ampersand Art scratchboards. www.ampersandart.com (both 5"x7") Check out their many products including gesso board, pastel board, aqua board, clayboard and my favorite, scratchboard.

Cubist Dachshund Scratchboard

2010-05-04T22:05:00.000-05:00

So I've been working on a scratchboard of a dachshund for a friend and needed to just let loose a bit. Here is an example of me playing around with the image. It may not be what the owner of the dog wanted, but I had a hell of a good time doing it! This is a 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboard www.ampersandart.com

Chicken with Blue Squares

2010-04-27T20:49:00.000-05:00

Just finished this Chicken with Blue Squares. It's a 5"x7" Ampersand Art www.ampersandart.com scratchboard with Liquidtex inks and a little bit of acrylic red. Love me some chicken on a panel! It may even be a rooster, who knows? They are all chickens to me!

Scratching out a Monkey

2010-04-21T20:59:00.000-05:00

I started working on this 5"x7" Ampersand www.ampersandart.com scratchboard yesterday. Not done yet, not quite sure where it's going, or what colors will be on this, if any. Having fun with it anyway. I'm packing my studio up, getting rid of stuff left and right...it's so strange, and yet, so good to purge. Still looking for followers of this and my Monkey a Day blog, so line up and sign up folks! Also enjoy your comments, so tell me what you think. Or give me ideas for future scratchboards. Currently it's pretty much the

'Dog and Monkey' show here, with a few still lifes thrown in.

Scratchboard Still Life

2010-04-09T22:03:00.000-05:00

I finished this 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboard the other day. I added yellow ink, vintage paper and red acrylic paint. You can see the before version that I posted here earlier if you scroll down the page to March 27th. I've got a larger version of this that has not been painted or had any collage work on it yet. Will post it here once I finish it. Should be interesting to see how different or similar it may turn out to be. I know I haven't a plan in mind...

2010-04-04T22:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some shots from my art talk/demo today in Johnson City. Had a great group of bicyclers from Minn. come through the Kirchman Gallery http://www.kirchmangallery.com/ One of my favorite scratchboard artists came by, Randy Jerome Simpson, the above piece is one of his works in progress. He was good help and took all of these photos. Thanks Randy! And thanks Susan for inviting me to speak!

Another Still Life

2010-03-27T22:56:00.000-05:00

A larger version of the previous posted still life scratchboard. Still need to add some color and maybe some collage with vintage paper. This is a 12"x16" Ampersand Art www.ampersandart.com type scratchboard, which I love, love,love working with. I went to an opening at the Kirchman Gallery in Johnson City tonight. Great fun, good folks, wonderful art!
Found out I sold a couple more pieces there, yippie!

Scratchboard Still Life

2010-03-16T22:21:00.000-05:00

Here is a new scratchboard. Of course it is an Ampersand Art scratchboard...my favorite medium http://www.ampersandart.com/ I haven't added any color yet. Wanted to scan it first and I've printed it out to add color to the print first. This is a new thing I'm trying. I saw a great book this past week that was illustrated by a fantastic scratchboard artist. The title is: "A Tallgrass Prairie Alphabet" by Claudia McGehee. www.claudia-mcgehee.com Great work!
She uses a different product (Essdee from England) and scans and prints on watercolor paper and then paints on the paper. I'm going to try it just to see how I will translate it. I'm sure the result will be different from her and yet inspired by her technique.

Hobby Horse

2010-03-12T14:25:00.001-06:00

I did this 'hobby horse' scratchboard about a million years ago. I can hardly remember it...except that I was not really very happy with the finished product. In spite of that, it did sell. It is so odd for me now to look at these older pieces. No color and really an simple work, not polished at all. Yeah, right, like all of the more recent dog & monkey pieces are 'polished'. Ok. It's good to have if only to see how I have changed and grown as an artist. I'm out of town right now. Have settled into a booth at a bakery with free wi-fi and so am 'connected' while being disconnected from the folks around me. Strange indeed. Check out Eye of the Dog Art Center and sign up for some classes. Especially my upcoming Scratchboard and Collage class April 11th. www.eyeofthedogartcenter.com This piece is an Ampersand Art scratchboard, my favorite. www.ampersandart.com

Scratchboard Still Life

2010-02-28T20:38:00.000-06:00

This is a large (16"x20")Ampersand Art http://www.ampersandart.com/ scratchboard combined with acrylic paint and collage. It was hung at Dahlia Woods Gallery http://www.dahliawoodsgallery.com/ in Dallas. I'm happy to say, this and two other still life type scenes sold there. I'll be teaching a scratchboard and collage class at Eye Of The Dog Art Center http://www.eyeofthedogartcenter.com/ in San Marcos Sunday April 11th. This is an all day class starting at 10am. $95.00 A tasty lunch is included. I'll have plenty of tools and materials. All you need to bring is your creative selves! Go to their website to get more details and sign up.

Chicken Man Scratchboard

2010-02-26T10:58:00.001-06:00

This is one of my larger, earlier scratchboards. "Chicken Man" It was based on a funny little wooden sculpture that I think I got at a yard sale. I love this creature...and I love Ampersand Art http://www.ampersandart.com/ scratchboard. Here's the commercial: I'll be teaching a free demonstration of this product tomorrow (Sat. Feb 27th) from 12-3pm at Jerry's Artarama on North I-35 Austin, TX. Come, spend an hour or a moment. I've got free samples for everyone!

And speaking of love, I am going thru what I can only explain as a '7 yr itch' with scratchboard. I love it, and have loved it very deeply for about 7 yrs. But lately, I've not done much of/or with it. Blame it on the weather, my mother dying in November, or me approaching my 55th birthday in April, I can't say for sure. What ever it is....that 'white-hot' love has waned a bit. Like any relationship, we are going thru a period of change. I don't think I want to leave scratchboard behind, I just need something different to happen. So, I've been exploring collage and even oil painting. I'm not 'cheating' just trying to put a little 'spice' back into our relationship. What's it all about scratchboard? Stay tuned to see what happens next!

King of All Dogs

2010-02-17T21:34:00.000-06:00

This is an older, sold scratchboard of mine. It is a Ampersand product, 16"x20" (http://www.ampersandart.com/) Tonight I had the pleasure of presenting information about the company and my favorite medium, scratchboard, to the Austin Fiber Artists. What a great group of folks. They had many of their projects there and I am thinking there may be some sort of fiber incorporated in future pieces of mine. Outstanding! I can't wait to see what they may come up with (and what I may come up with as a result of what I saw there). I will be teaching an all day class on scratchboard and collage at Eye of the Dog Art Center in San Marcos Texas http://www.eyeofthedogartcenter.com/ on Sunday, April 11th. It is very affordable, includes lunch, sample materials, and is in one of the most dynamic and fun art centers I've ever been to. The owners are both amazing artists and it is an unforgettable experience. Google it and sign up folks, if not for my class for another of the variety of classes offered. I'm also giving a free scratchboard demo at Jerry's Artarama here in Austin, Sat. Feb. 27th from 12-3pm. I love watching folks discover how much fun this is!

Early Scratchboard Work

2010-02-10T09:44:00.000-06:00

Thought I'd post an earlier work of mine. This is a 16"x20" Ampersand Art www.ampersandart.com Scratchboard. "4&20" is the name, for obvious reasons. It's always a treat to look back and see what I was producing about 5 years ago. This looks very basic, stripped down, unfinished to me now. If you look at what I'm currently doing, it's hard to believe I was afraid of color and refused to use it. Soon I will be diving into oil painting head first. I did not pay attention to it at all when I was in first year art school. I hated the smell of turpentine and thought all the glazes and mixing and drawing was tedious. I guess I was just too young and stupid to get it. I do now. And I'm drawn to it.

Still Life Scratchboard

2010-01-26T18:30:00.000-06:00

This is a large 16"x20" Ampersand scratchboard. I just finished this the other day. This is a combination of vintage paper collage and water based oil paint. This is my new favorite piece. I struggled with it for several months. It just wasn't coming together. Once I started slapping the paper on it started to make more sense to me. I love it when it happens that way. I'll be doing a scratchboard demo at Jerry's Artarama in Feb. I'll post more info soon. Also will be doing a day long scratchboard/collage class at Eye of the Dog Art Center in San Marcos TX in April. Check out more info at www.eyeofthedogartcenter.com

Sweet Blue Dog

2010-01-17T21:05:00.000-06:00

This is my latest 5"x7" Ampersand Art scratchboard. www.ampersandart.com This is a sweet dog named Blue, a belated birthday present for a friend. These latest scratchboards are stacking up in the studio. This one has a home....but many of them don't, at least not yet. I'll be delivering several new monkeys and dogs to Wally Workman Gallery this week. www.wallyworkmangallery.com Check them out. I am the 'Target' of the gallery...my work is quite affordable, purposely. I want to sell art. Simple as that. I don't make tons of money on these, but they fly out the door and end up on people's walls. That makes me happy!

I'll be teaching a scratchboard class at Eye of the Dog Art Center www.eyeofthedogartcenter.com in San Marcos this coming April (Sunday April 11th from 10-4 lunch included $95.00) This Art Center is one of the coolest places on Earth. Really. And Billy Ray and Beverly are two of the most talented, nicest artists I know. So put this on your calendars and save your pennies. We will be diving in head first into scratchboard and collage. I'll have all the materials and tools. My goal is world domination by scratchboard. It is the most instant gratification art technique that anyone can do.