Hallowkeep Arts

Afternoon Moon

2011-12-03T12:16:00.007-05:00

Afternoon Moon

This pastel and 17 others are exhibited at Tastebuds Coffee & Tea, thru February. They all showcase the angles & shadows of architecture against the sky's backdrop.
Tastebuds is located 106 N Main st Salisbury, NC 28144
For more info contact Kirk on his Facebok page.

Sunflowers

2011-11-27T11:39:00.004-05:00

Sunflower Study

Pear Portraits

2011-07-23T15:19:00.006-04:00

The weather has been hot so I have spent some time in the studio painting some still lifes.

Today I share Pear Portraits with you, painted on a small scale.

The shape of, the feel and taste of pears are very pleasing.

I adore painting their portraits.

Enjoy !

Meet, Greet & Learn Event

2011-07-04T15:25:00.001-04:00

Painting in Chesapeake Bay, VA

2011-04-21T22:53:00.006-04:00

Greetings World,
After all the posts of myself painting in all these different places, I thought you may want to see the fruits of my labor. Above is an oil painting done at Kiptopeke State Park, VA. The park is located just after coming out the Chesapeake Bay Tunnel. Beautiful place to paint.

This is a watercolor of a little tidal pool, painted from the rocks, on the bay side of Cape Charles, VA. My cousin lives near here and I always enjoy painting in the area, when I visit her.

It's not Ireland but it is a powerful place.

Hollybrook Farm Paint Out

2011-04-18T11:43:00.003-04:00

Last week a few members of Plein Air Carolina painted at Hollybrook Farm, a lovely setting in Lexington, NC. Above are Sharon Forthofer,of Salisbury NC and in an insert Jeremy Sams of High Point NC.

"Yours truly" working on a painting of a huge Pine tree at the lakes edge with a nest of duck eggs at its base. Mother Duck was too busy swimming to sit just then.

Above is Norma Owens, of Lexington NC and Rex White of Salisbury NC. The insert is of Joyce Metters, the owner of Hollybrook Farms. Joyce raises and trains champion Morgan horses, a sturdy, all American breed.

As always, more info on the painters and their art can be found at www.pleinaircarolina.com

Painting at Barber Farm

2011-04-11T17:16:00.003-04:00

Historic Barber Farm, in Salisbury NC, hosted a paint out for Plein Air Carolina last week. The painters had a treat as the farm is absolutely beautiful in any season but the Paperwhites were really showing off for us. Here is "yours truly" in the white hat, trying to make my Paperwhites not look like confetti.

This is Sharon Forthofer up front with "yours truly" in the back. Take a stroll on over to http://www.pleinaircarolina.com/ to see our art and more pic of painters painting.

Painting At River Park

2011-03-27T12:12:00.005-04:00

photos by KC Smith

A couple weeks ago Plein Air Carolina painted at River Park, it was cold so only three of us showed up. From the left is Phyllis Steimel, "yours truly" Rachel Lee and Sharon Forthofer closer to the river. River Park, on the Yadkin River and near the town of Cooleemee, is a great place to paint. Just beyond where Sharon is standing is The Bullhole , a place where a strong whirlpool resides. If I have the story right, in days gone by, a farmer led his oxen to drink near this whirlpool, they got too close, the oxen were dragged in. I always thought oxen were neutered bulls ...? Never mind, it is called "The Bullhole". KC Smith, a Cooleemee correspondent at the Davie County Enterprise Record, came out, took photos and wrote a great article on Plein Air Carolina. KC Smith volunteers her photographic & journalistic skills to showcase Davie Co NC events, because she is proud of where she lives. She can be reached at www.cooleemeenews@gmail.com . Thanks, KC.

As I said it was cold and the mist from the roaring falls made it colder, so I am looking especially chunky in my insulated wear. Laying off the doughnuts would help too ! If you are looking for art instruction Phyllis teaches at Waterworks Visual Arts Center and Sharon teaches at Railwalk Gallery. These painters are excellent teachers that can make a brush "hum" Just go to http://www.pleinaircarolina.com/ , click on their names to go to their own sites. Me ?, I can tell you where the best doughnut shops are.....

Painting at the Goat

2011-01-31T10:59:00.005-05:00

Hello World,
When the weather is cold or stormy, Plein Air Carolina, an outdoor painting group, must paint inside. Green Goat Gallery, of Salisbury NC, and proprietress Anne Waters hosted a paint-in for us on Saturday 29 Jan 2011.
Visit http://www.greengoatgallery.com/ to check out Green Goat Gallery and learn more about Blue Ewe yoga classes.
To find out more about the fine art artists of Plein Air Carolina visit http://www.pleinaircarolina.com/
Pictured above is Annette Ragone Hall at her easel, with Doris Trexler drawing in the foreground. All the artists had a great time in this warm & inviting space, which is usually where the Blue Ewe yoga classes are held. Phyllis Steimel is working, in oils, at her easel, Jim Taylor drawing from the floor and Barbara Richmond is painting with watercolors on the right. Yours truly is the model, knowing full well I would never be able to make a living doing this...painting the model is better than being the model.
Doris is sitting on the right, Phyllis behind her easel, with Norma Owen sitting in the center. Ellen Phillips is next and Sharon Forthofer standing on the far left, with Carolyn Blackman sitting between them. All working to capture "the moment".
Joyce Cavanagh-Wood is drawing in the foreground with Sharon, Phyllis and Doris in the background. Carolyn Blackman & Don Moore seem to be absent but rest assured they were to the left, working seriously in their mediums.

Each one of these accomplished artists and their art from this day will be featured here, in the following weeks.

Be sure to visit often.

2010 RenFair

2011-01-12T12:06:00.004-05:00

Greetings World,

Here we are at the fall Carolina Renaissance Festival, which I attended several times. Each time I posed as a different Forest Folk. A roving photographer caught me watching the crowd and allowing the Muggles to believe I was part of the Fair...which I was... and it was great fun.
I plan to purchase the three images Duncan took of me but this is the best one. Duncan is a NC professional photographer who has traveled world wide to capture life as it passes by his lens.
Take a look at his site and contact him if you need portraits, your event photographed or just to see his work. It is outstanding!

Here is his contact info..
Duncan Moody
Sabela Images
336.558.4547
http://www.sabelaimages.com/
http://www.sabelacon.com/

Ireland's Lighthouses - John Eagle

2010-11-24T09:53:00.005-05:00

Hello World,
It is my pleasure to featuring my friend, John Eagle, and his newest book. This book is so informative, colorful and it is well presented. It is a must have book for a number of reasons. I received my copy a few days ago and have began pouring over it, looking up the lighthouses on my big framed Ordinance Survey Touring map. Yes, this how much I eat up everything about Ireland!
And here is "Himself", Mr Eagle, in front one of the helicopters in which he shot many of the lighthouse images. Many times this was done at great peril as Ireland's coast is very rugged, creating updrafts from the sea and rocks. No wonder there are so many lighthouses needed.
Not only is John a professional and hardworking photographer but his oil paintings of his beloved West Cork are strikingly beautiful.

Here is John's contact info:
Ireland on Canvas

http://www.johneaglephotography.com/

tel: +353 (0)27 74275

mobile: +353 (0)87 9693745

Inside the covers of this remarkable book you will find detailed images, maritime info, directions, locations and descriptions of every single one of Ireland's lighthouses. Only three of which are currently not being used. Another testament to Ireland's treacherous coastline.

John has succeeded in not only giving us the geography but an interesting history of each site also. As said this book is useful for a number of reasons, one of which is a tour book, whether you are interested in lighthouse or not. Just by going to see them you will see also the glorious sites of lovely Ireland.

Oh, by the way, John leads boat tours of lighthouses and van tours of West Cork. He is a man of many creative resources and opportunities.

John Eagle, the man of many talents, loves his doggies, who go every where with him. Featured here are his beloved Quisha and her black eared daughter Shara. Both these girls are now in dogie heaven but still adored and remembered. Another collie named Suzie is John's current traveling companion.

Clare Island Lighthouse in Clew Bay

This is just a sample of the marvelous images of Ireland, of lighthouses in which you could get lost in. Do yourself a big favor and go on over to John's site to order this book. For what ever reason you do so it will be money well spent.

Be prepared to hang out at John's site as it is so interesting and has so much to see that it is hard to leave. If you love Ireland, art, lighthouses this is the place to find it all....in one place.

John Eagle

Ireland on Canvas

http://www.JohnEaglePhotography.com/

To Honor The Warriors

2010-11-11T08:30:00.008-05:00

Ray C. 1944

Rhine Valley, Germany

Hello World,

The above photo is of my father, who served in the US Army, during WWII. He was not a very good father or husband before the war and was worse afterwards. I have come to understand how the war experience twisted his mind and life, along with countless other men and women through out the ages. Of course, the partner, children and homes also suffer the ravages of war.

All wars and conflicts, whether on a battlefield or in our homes, begin with greed and misunderstanding on both sides. As we old hippies remember "War is not the answer- What is it good for?"

I wrote this little poem a few years ago to honor the warriors of all nations, all wars, in all the ages who willingly gave the ultimate price for us. I do not wish to glorify war but to honor the warriors.

I invoke remembrance for all warriors,

Warriors of courage and of fear.

Fearing for the safety of family and nation,

Families safe but many incomplete.

I invoke remembrance for all warriors.

2008

On this day of 11 November 2010,

may peace and healing prevail in this world,

May peace and healing prevail in us.

This morning while reading a "Celtic Devotional Daily Prayers and Blessings", by Caitlin Matthews as I have done each morning & evening for 5 years, I read the following.

I now give her credit for her words of truth that apply to any age.

"Somewhere in the world this day wars and conflicts are brewing or already in progress: may all the souls of all beings who suffer the oppression of war - people, animals, plants and places - be guarded by the Holy Ones, and may peace prevail again."

~ Caitlin Matthews

1996

What I did this Summer

2010-10-10T21:19:00.003-04:00

The Summer of 2010 was a great one for painting and

visiting my cousins. Here I am early one morning painting on

my cousin Dianne's deck, in Hilton Head SC.

I thought she was still asleep but she snapped

this one from her upper deck.

Here I am with Cousin Gail and her beautiful daughter Beth,

doing a bit of watercolor at her farm in Cape Charles VA.

I had had a little help painting on another day in VA.

Looks like one of us needs to lay off the doughnuts...

and it's not the kitty.
When I visit cousin Betty, in Wilmington NC,

I have to catch a bit of rest where ever I can.

2010-08-19T15:05:00.002-04:00

ArtWorks On Main, in Historic Downtown Mooresville, offers a one stop art experience for artists and collectors alike. Under one roof there is an art gallery, an art supply store, artists studios for rent in the back and ongoing workshops and classes for childern & adults.

Ever the student, I signed up for an oil portraiture class and I sure am glad I did. It is priced right and is a small class, lots of teacher attention and encouragement from the other students.

Here is the instructor, Mr Gordon James. This young man is a gifted artist and an excellent teacher. If you have the chance to study under him, it will be well worth the time and money!

Notice the grills and sliding stall doors behind which are studio space for rent, very unique.

Below is the contact info for ArtWorks On Main in case you wish to visit or take a class. I am sure Suzanne & Roger Hicks, the owners, will welcome you.

165 N Main St

Mooresville, NC 28115

704.664.2414

www.artworksonmain.com

artworksonmain@artworksonmain.com

In the middle, up front and watching intently, is yours truly trying to see teacher's every brushstroke. Maybe some of the his artistic genius will sink in....maybe.

Now I am back at the easel and working hard. In the back ground you can see our model for this session, Tavish, who is an excellent model. Check back later to see some of the portrait fruits of my labor.

Plein Air Painting reception

2010-08-19T14:24:00.003-04:00

As promised, I am putting up some images from my

art reception at the Visual Arts Depot.

Here I am explaining the mysteries of why and how

I painted these 45 paintings out of doors in,

many times, inclement weather.

The couple were very interested ...and patient.

It was standing room only most of the night,
in the four galleries.
I took this images when there was a lull in the crowds
and I could get away for a minute.

It looks cleared out here but earlier the table
was groaning with food and drink.
The quartet wafted sweet music all about the building
and a good time was had by all.

Plein Air Painting - Near & Far

2010-08-04T15:58:00.009-04:00

The Mooresville Artists Guild is hosting several exhibits, as is done each month, at the Visual Arts Depot, Mooresville.

The entire month of August, in Gallery 2, I will exhibit 45 plein air (french for open air) paintings. They were all painted on location in North Carolina, Virginia and in my beloved Ireland.

The oil, pastel and watercolor paintings are mostly small and priced to sell. Even so, as is my usual custom, I have used archival material, framing, and UV-blocking glass.

Arlena Losciuto is also exhibiting her stunning

artwork in Gallery 1,

the Docents will exhibit in Gallery 3

and the Warehouse Gallery.

The Visual Art Depot is located in the unique historic

train depot, Downtown Mooresville, NC

and is a charming place to visit.

You are invited to a scrumptious Depot reception on 13 Aug 2010 from 6 - 8pm, which is in conjunction with the Mooresville Artwalk. This monthly event features free live music, art shows and refreshments in many locations throughout the downtown area.

103 W. Center Ave.

Historic Train Depot

Mooresville, NC 28115

For more info visit

http://www.magart.org/

or call

704.663.6661

Hours are:

Tuesday-Saturday 10-4pm

Sunday 1-4pm

Let me know if an appointment or guided tour is needed.

Now all that is needed is Yours Truly in these photos,with a big smile.

Hope you can join us.

Check back later for more photos...and smiles.

Green Goat Gallery Exhibit

2010-06-20T14:13:00.004-04:00

This is just one of my life drawings on exhibit at

"the very unique and wonderful"

Green Goat Gallery.

There are other talented artists exhibiting also.

Contact info is below.

A marvelous exhibit that honors the body.

Check it out !

Green Goat Gallery

516 South Salisbury Ave.

Spencer, NC 28159

704.639.0606

www.greengoatgallery.com

Green Goat Gallery is hosting a figure drawing and painting exhibit, titled Belle Figure. Exhibiting artists include Robert Crum, Rachel Lee, Don Moore, Donnie, Moose, Betty Bonner Steele, Phyllis Steimel and John Witalison.

Mother's Birthday

2010-05-22T13:39:00.003-04:00

Mildred Susan Bishop Hackney
2 May 1921- 25 Sep 1998

Mother's Birthday

Twelve have passed since her Home-going,

twelve years I have missed her and it is ongoing.

I miss her shinning eyes, gentle smile and helping hands,

her gestures, unique expressions and the way she stands.

I miss her laugh and voice which sadly I cannot recall,

she was a womon of towering fortitude yet physically small.

Photo images must now remind of the color of her eyes,

that were humbled by life and love but remained ever wise.

Even thru all the missing I know she is still here,

for in flowing water I see her dark hair.

A soft breeze is the touch of her hand on my arm,

the sunshine is her love that quickens and warms.

Her kisses on my face come in a rain shower,

her sweet smile is in each bud and flower.

Gentle wind thru tree-tops is her lullaby at night,

her mother-wit is bound by dark moonlight.

In my three sisters and in my own face,

she has left her mark trace by trace.

So on this glad day I bring a reminder to her clan,

"Joy replaces grief for she ever resides,

in the Bright Summerland."

~ Rachel Lee

2 May 2010

"While remembering my mother on this day, I realized we do not ever "lose" our loved ones. They are present with us always. They are in the blood in our veins and in the very cells of our bodies, as are all our ancestors who came before us. If our dear ones are able to return to the soil of the earth, as merciful death comes for them and be a part once again of the universe, they are in the air we breathe, the soil we walk upon and water we drink.

As I sat in contemplation of her life, with the sun on my face and a breeze tickling my arm, I felt her presence and this poem came to me."

Brodie's First Snow

2010-04-06T14:29:00.003-04:00

Here is a little watercolor of my cousins baby, Brodie.

I painted it from her photo taken in 2008,

now she has a photo & a painting.

It was his first snow and he loved it.

So cute !

Wallace Building 2009

2010-02-19T20:40:00.002-05:00

Corner Suite

watercolor

2009

Each fall the group I paint with, Plein Air Carolina, works with the Salisbury Symphony to paint the homes of some of the symphony supporters. We paint a home, from our own photograph, and donate it to the owner. We in turn get symphony season tickets....good trade from where I stand. My lot fell to paint the home of someone who lives in a penthouse....a short penthouse.
I took the photo from opposite street corner. I was invited to a swanky art cocktail party here once where they served marvelous pomegranate martinis'....yummmmm !

Irish Watercolors 1

2010-02-12T21:39:00.003-05:00

Now that I am done with all that repousse' I wll share some of my many watercolors painted on location in Co Clare Ireland, with Irish water. The one above is of a huge Beech tree along side the tiny boreen (road) and below my B&B...Hill House.

This one is low tide at Kinavara harbour, in northern Co Clare.

This is the Sepetmber Harvest Moon at 6am out of the Hill House dining room window. I rose up before anyone else, saw this full moon in my beloved Ireland and had to paint it then & there.

Repousse' Exhibit Venue

2010-01-06T20:52:00.004-05:00

Queen Of The Night

Just when I thought I was done with posting repousse' art, an exhibit venue has came my way that I am excited about. Southern Spirit Gallery, a fine art craft gallery, has accepted 6 of my repousse'.
If you can go by & check out this very unique gallery...you will be glad you did. (info below)

Sun Moon Copper

So, I am posting these last three pieces, but as I create new ones for exhibit I will let you take a preview peek. Most will be pewter, but maybe a few copper ones.

Comedy Tragedy Brass

Southern Spirit Gallery, the sole exhibit venue for my repousse' art, is located at 102 South Main St, Salisbury NC 28144. For more info contact Ms Toby Hagmaier at 704.633.0761 or at SouthernSpiritGallery@yahoo.com

Last of the Repousse'

2009-11-28T20:51:00.002-05:00

copper

pewter with stones

brass

Well, I am bored with all this metel work so...

for the next few posts you will view

some of my oils and watercolors that I painted

on location on my three trips to Ireland.

Cheers

More Repousse' Boxes

2009-11-20T19:52:00.003-05:00

Kokopelli worked in aluminum

on the inside of this 6" x 9" book box.

I lined it with suede for a cozy fit.

And here is that randy boy worked

in brass on the front of the same box.

Double Kokopelli,

Double Trouble

A copper moon sleeps on the top

of this 6' x 6" box

Boxes with Repousse'

2009-11-18T20:00:00.004-05:00

Copper Repousse' moon & star on a 12"

vintage hat box

that I covered with handmade paper

This chest type box was about 5" x 3" x 4"

I stained it and added this cute little dragon

worked in pewter repousse'

I painted this 4" x 3' x 2" box a vibrant blue,
worked a celtic knot design
in copper repousse' for the top

Repousse Supply List

2009-11-14T20:24:00.004-05:00

The Burdens We Share

copper repousse'

Form Holding Gems
pewter repousse'

Workshop cousins, here is your suggested repousse'
supply list and where to get it all.

More info later, keep checking back.

Happy Creative Crafting

Repousse' Workshop Materials

2009-11-10T21:17:00.006-05:00

Here are some things you will need to create the repousse' art. The basic, must have things are # 1-7, 12-14, 19-22, 25,26. Let me know if you have questions about any of this.

If you can make some of the tools, great. If not, you can get all of it and more at:

Mercart.com (tools, metal, patinas), acmoore.com (tools & a handy book), dickblick.com (tools, metal, patinas)

When buying metal do not get colored metal, as it just wears off when it is worked. Do not buy brass, it looks good but very dense and hard on your hands. Copper is expensive now days. Aluminum is best to begin with, easy to work and inexpensive. Pewter is the very best, but is expensive, best for after you are confident. After you work with it you will never want anything else

1 Aluminum metal...buy in rolls not sheets..easy to work with

2,3,4 & 6,7 wooden tools from dowels, chopsticks, paint brushes

sharpen in pencil sharpener or make chisel points with a sharp knife

make them fat as you can for your hands sake

5 wooden clay tool

get a pack of soft pencil grips, save your hands

8 spoon tool...there are other sizes

9,10,11 Teflon tools...good tools, many different ones

12,13,14 stylus with different size ball tips

15 cutting tool for tiny places

16 wheel, there are a great many of these...great for borders

17 wire tip brush tool, very useful for texture

18 a of type refiner

19 11x14 pc of glass,cardboard behind, tape all around

20 8 x 10 pc suede leather, can use old mouse pad, not as good

21 paper stumps in different sizes

22 emery boards or sandpaper to sharpen stumps, wooden tools

23 copper metal, buy in rolls, little more dense than aluminum

24 pewter metal, expensive velvet metal, buy much later

25 vellum paper for patterns

26 6' brayer or roller to flatten metal

These are some handy things to have around

1 rags or cloths to wipe patinas, polish
2 sharp scissors
3 oops left #3 out
4 xtra fine steel wool, use on copper
5 metal polish got this at WalMart
6 gold patina, expensive, get this later
7 two solutions that age & darken pewter
use black printers paint for aluminum
use Liver of Sulphur for copper
there are blue & green patinas too
8 white glue to fill back of design
9 alcohol to clean metal
10 tape to hold pattern to metal
11 tape measure or ruler
12 support glove to keep hands healthy
13 wrist support, can use sock filled with rice
14 magazine or newspaper,use under metal to set design
also get a couple old paint brush to apply patinas

Repousse' Art #3

2009-11-01T10:24:00.002-05:00

The one above is a pewter repousse' with a goldish patina applied. I cannot remember who has this one, have it written down somewhere. I have created so many it is hard to keep up.
The one below is just a little "fun" one in copper. It shines in someone's life, but who's is the question.
It is not always important to know where each piece of art is, at all times, but that the art is bringing joy and inspiriation to who has it.
Just as long as I do not see it in a yard sale!

Repousse' Art II

2009-10-29T12:53:00.002-04:00

copper - a medium metal

brass - a hard metal

aluminum - a soft metal

Let me know what you think about these pieces....

Repousse"

2009-10-28T10:37:00.006-04:00

Masks by Rachel Lee

2009-10-06T11:23:00.002-04:00

These are some of my old masks, most are sold and have good homes. Coming soon are new Faerie masks. Also I have been working on masks made of leather, feathers, shells, & natural material. I am working on creating these leather masks into ethnic tribal masks and Shaman's masks.

I am excited about this creative project.

Keep checking back......

Poetry Reading Poems #7

2009-09-22T11:21:00.004-04:00

On This Day

On this day;

In the pre-dawn hours, a little tenet house in Crab Orchard, Mecklenburg Co, NC was quiet. Bessie Geneva Byrd Hackney was wide awake, busily delivering her 6th child and 5th daughter.

Bessie's husband, Robert Henry Hackney Sr. was assisting Dr. McDearmond, before beginning his long day of work in the fields. The baby girl’s birth went well, as this was a strong woman and the family lived close to the land. May Rachel Hackney enters into this world on Friday, 2 May 1919, 4am.

On this day;

Five Hackney children slept in a rented house, in Fentress Township, Guilford Co, NC, while Bessie Geneva Byrd Hackney quietly delivered her 7th child and 6th daughter.

Dr Gilmer and his assistant worked to put Bessie at ease while nature took its own mysterious course and the girl child came forth. A wide eyed 9 year old Maggie pats her father's large calloused hand as he smooths her hair. It is Monday, 2 May 1921, 3:20 am, and Mildred Susan Hackney takes her first breath.

On this day:

At Jameson's Dairy, in rural Mecklenburg Co, NC, inside a small frame house the miracle of birth is unfolding. It is early evening, Mildred Susan Hackney Bishop, has been in hard labor for over 24 hours.

Her husband, Ray Cameron Bishop, anxiously scans the road for the doctor who will never arrive. Susan is exhausted beyond measure, but prevails due to her own strong constitution. This woman is descended from stalwart pioneer stock.

Surrounded by family and a midwife, Susan delivers her firstborn daughter. Just in time for supper,Geneva Mae Bishop is born on Friday, 2 May 1941.

“Written to honor my Mother, my Aunt, and my Sister

all born on 2 May and to tell how their story began.

90% is factual, 10% is my interpretation"

2 May 2008

Poetry Reading Poems #6

2009-09-21T11:42:00.002-04:00

Ode to Queen Linda

Come all you cousins, let us gather round,

for our October Birthday Queen must be crowned.

She is fair Linda Sue from the Clan McKinney,

who joined the O’Conner’s and a lad named Eddie.

As she made a house a home, their bond did strengthen,

two daughters bore she, bonny Kristen & Megan.

Both maids a princess, fair of face,

both possess their mother’s sweet grace.

Now, two fine grand boys play round her door,

now all manner of toys litter the floor.

We honor you today with gifts, cake and crown,

and round this good table we see nary a frown.

All Hail Queen Linda……. Long Live The Queen,

for you are the most precious that we’ve ever seen.

So, rule over us today, do not hesitate,

as your first decree must surely be....

…to cut the cake.

“Written to honor my cousin Linda Sue McKinney Conner,

at our October Cousin Circle

Saturday, 18 Oct 2008”

8 Oct 2008

Poetry Reading Poems # 5

2009-09-20T22:00:00.000-04:00

What Else to Do

I sit still with your news, these long days.

Waiting, watching, while emotions rise up

like a great wave, cresting, breaking,

crashing down flat, ready to rise again.

Not knowing what else to do, I seek to

strengthen you with hope & hugs,

shower you with love & laughter,

encourage you with peace & patience.

Then I realize, with gratitude

that this is what you have

and always will do for me.

So, I seek to bless you.

May you know The Kindler of Hope ever walks with you.

May the Piercer of Doubt quicken your pulse of life.

May your burdens be lifted as you mount on Wings of Love.

May the protection of The Glad Giver be upon you,

as you brave harsh winds.

“Written for cousins, sisters, nieces, friends & myself”

29 Feb 2009

Poetry Reading Poems #4

2009-09-20T11:17:00.005-04:00

Tree Lovers

Today while walking in a winter wood,

wandering home slow as I could.

I spied two trees so close to each other,

I knew for certain they were lovers.

Trunks touching, branches entwined,

two mighty trees of different kinds.

The scene was very plain to see,

they clearly were not interested in me.

After a giving a blessing, I moved along,

sensing they wanted to be left alone.

“A winter afternoon walk on the farm brought me

face to face with these two, unashamed trees,

which I still discreetly visit from time to time.”

February 2007

Poetry reading Poem #3

2009-09-18T09:40:00.002-04:00

Today

I see sunlight filter through pine trees,

feel warmish cool breezes on my bare neck,

taste juicy Chickweed that grows in shady spots,

hear a host of birds weave together a wild tune,

smell in cupped hands rich black woods dirt,

And I am content living close to the land.

Today

I smell horse as my face is softly nuzzled,

see a warning gleam in the setting Goose eye,

hear the welcome mew of barn cats,

taste fresh garden vegetables & herbs,

feel a faithful dog brush past my leg,

And I am at peace living close to the land

Today

I hear the vibrant hum of the Universe,

taste the Divine energy of life,

feel the Ancestor’s supporting presence,

see my elf reflection in a quiet spring,

smell nature in bloom around me,

And I am inspired living close to the land.

“Awareness of these things came to my senses

as I went about my chores on the farm, today.

This all happens a thousand times over,

in different ways, everyday”

5 May 2008

Poetry Reading Poems #2

2009-09-17T10:29:00.006-04:00

Observations from the Farm

On a cold, soft, Spring day, whilst going about my daily chores,

I observed the following:

Dark wet tree trunks stand beneath new and luscious greenery,

Hardy shoots and buds flourish damply,

Dogwoods & Wild Plums splash lacy color all about,

as misty rain enfolds the wood like a dewy muffler.

Creeks run deep as showers come & go,

Intrepid squirrels risk open spaces to devour forbidden seed,

Birds search the soaked grass for wriggling morsels,

While all the tree frogs silently wait.

Smell of wet dirt flung up by leggy calves outrunning anxious cows,

Comical chicks, ducks & goslings still need a heat lamp,

Horses with dripping forelocks gaze out of large liquid eyes,

And the barn is a welcome refuge, quiet & dry.

Sleeping dogs keep snugly to their houses,

Cats dreamily hug inside window sills.

Peat pot seedlings stretch & yearn toward a soggy garden plot,

as an afternoon kettle steams up the kitchen.

The Goddess of the Land, in whose lap we all rest, smiles,

Faeries dance to The Green Man’s powerful tune,

As all the farm expectantly waits & drips,

In the cold, soft, Spring rain.

“This muted and dewy spring day

was just waiting for me to give it a voice

and I could not resist!

Observations on a Spring Night

Blue black sky is ablaze with glittering stars,

Crescent moon floats white, sliver and slender.

Venus, large and yellow, hangs over the tree line,

Constellations parade across a stunningly beautiful sky.

The crunching sound of cows munching grass,

As they softly call to headstrong calves in the dark.

Who scatter through the nearby wood,

Rustling last years leaves underfoot.

Dogs near and far bark and answer back,

Crickets and tree frogs try to out sing each other.

Horses are rattling now empty feed buckets,

And the donkey still waits at the gate for another treat.

Owl sounds off softly from the Pine grove.

Whippoorwills are calling out to the dark.

Heat lamps glow from the shed, warming baby geese.

Occasional vehicles pass quietly in the distance.

Moonlight illuminates the back porch steps.

Cool breeze wraps around bare feet.

Flashlight in hand while writing this poem,

I breathe the warm spring night.

“As I walked up from the studio to the house, I was so impressed

with the magic of the night that I ran inside

for writing tools and flashlight

so I could capture it all right then and there”

Poetry Reading Poems

2009-09-16T09:37:00.003-04:00

Here are the first two poems I read last week. I will post two a day until I get them all up here for you to read and please ask questions if you want, but I trust they will nourish and bless you.

Old Woman Winter

Old Mother Winter is on the loose,

she has settled in and tightened her noose.

Her bitter cold is hard on beast and land,

but must be borne as best as can.

Old Mother Winter, have a care,

for the poor creatures and how they fare.

Provide fresh water and their meals,

for your icy breath they cruelly feel.

Old Mother Winter has arrived,

it is freezing cold outside.

Come on in and take a cup,

We can sit, talk and soon catch up.

“This poem came to me while I was traveling one cold winter day,

to visit a very dear friend. It was the very first one I wrote.

January 2007

The Green Man's Call

Ivy twines around my soul

and shall not loosen nor let go.

Ivy leaves shade and cover,

just as close as a Green Man lover.

Ivy vines are in my hair,

shortly they are all that will be there.

Ivy blossoms cover my skin,

for they shall soon be next of kin.

Ivy roots wind round my feet,

tickling my toes with furry teeth.

Ivy has transformed my frame,

as I must now change my name.

Ivy I have become,

as joyfully I climb.

For now, at last, The Green Man

shall not pine.

“Written one morning as I contemplated how the plant, Ivy,

grows and covers everything in its path.

Also I thought of the influence that the spirit of nature,

who is the Green Man,

has over green, growing things.

So naturally this poem sort of grew on me,

so to speak

April 2007

Poetry Reading

2009-09-12T21:30:00.004-04:00

On Thursday, 10 Sept 2009, I read 11 of my poems to about 20 people, at the Jazzy Art & Poetry event held at Railwalk Studio & Galleries, Salisbury NC. There was some cool jazz played before a professional poet and my inexperienced self read our poems.
The other poet was very good and .....professional... reading her deep and insightful poems. While I was flat in my delivery and could have had more inflection and depth to my voice. All the people were very nice to say encouraging words to me but I did not feel my performance was very good even though my poems are.

I am not sure what I was doing here ??? Flying an airplane...Witnessing ???

My friend Don took more photos but I will not bore you with them, three is enough.

Poems are so personal and their meaning is not always understood by others that I do not know if it is effective to read them out loud. Reading poems written by others, to oneself, the poems can be understood because they can be embraced and reread many times, rolling the words & meanings over ones tongue and mind.

Well, my first time of reading these intensely private poems to others is over. I am not sure if I want to repeat it, at this point.

2009-09-10T21:39:00.003-04:00

This little oil was painted for my cousin Cathy, from her photo.

It turned out well...I think she will be pleased.

2009-08-31T10:58:00.005-04:00

Most of these drawings were done in a 3 hours sitting, with a 5 minute break every 1/2 hour. This is the best format for me as I do not want to be rushed and want a finished drawing at the end. I work on grey or sand colored Canson paper, with soft graphite pencils and white pastels.

I hope to develop similar sessions soon, at The Looking Glass Artists Collective in Salisbury NC. If you are interested please contact them. You will find them online.

2009-08-30T21:20:00.005-04:00

The content of the next few posts will be of my drawings from various life drawing sessions I attended in 2004 thru 2006. This model was truly a professional and could come back from a break and get right back into the pose....exactly as before.

Drawing the human body is a challenge but I have heard it said that "If one can draw the human body, one can draw anything. Because all the angles, all the curves, all the planes in nature can be found in the human body."

2009-08-20T09:45:00.004-04:00

Pinky's Sister

oil on panel

2006

This painting is from a photo I took of one of our heifers. Animals usually move around too much for me to paint them from life, unless they are asleep or resting. Pinky, so named because she had a pink, pink nose and butt, is now a brood cow.

This heifer was her full sister, was calved a year after her and identical to her, so she will forever be "Pinky's Sister". We name few of our cows which are raised for market, but Pinky was always getting into trouble and funny situations.

This heifer went the way of all of them eventually....to market.

This whole business, of which I have no control, of raising cattle for market is vexing to me, as a vegetarian and animal lover.

2009-08-16T12:16:00.004-04:00

Jackson

2002

pastel on sanded paper

Jackson came to our farm about 15 yrs ago as a "mature' Sicilian donkey, now he must be older than dirt. His job was to hang out with the cows and ward off wild dogs and coyotes, which he did for a while. Now he just hangs out at the cow barn and begs extra feed and will run one down for a carrot or a peppermint. He is adorable and goes on walks with me, the dogs and one cat.

I have lot of photos of him and this one needed painting.

This pastel and the one of Skipper (at the beginning of this blog) are the start of a series I am working on called "Animal Eyes"

Maybe I will show it to you, later.

2009-08-13T22:41:00.003-04:00

This is a serene spot in the bottom land by the big creek.

Looking north back behind the studio.

I did a nice little painting of this site 'en plein air'.

This is "Sister Beech" out in front of the studio.
Isn't she lovely?
Beech trees are one of my favorite trees, can you tell?

Here's Clifford on patrol.

With 4 dogs on guard no one can sneak up on me.

2009-08-13T10:30:00.003-04:00

This one and the one below are on the drive down from the house & barns. It was a marvelous fall day in 2008 and now the studio has a porch. Molly is still your guide and waiting at the studio.

Every day, sometimes several times a day and night, in all types of weather, I walk back and forth to the studio. I am always amazed at the beauty and call of the land. It is precious to me.

Here is Baby Squirt, my Jack Russell friend, and Clifford, my great big friend, on their way back to the house for lunch and maybe some rat hunting at the barn. Clifford may be big but The Baby is the boss

All four of the dogs go on walks with me and here is The Baby hunting down by one of the three creeks and springs on the land. This area is so beautiful and quiet......this will be a painting soon....with or with out The Baby.

2009-08-12T14:31:00.005-04:00

Hallowkeep Studio

before the porch was built

Before I share more art, poems and other various and sundry things, I shall share photo's of my 100 acre farm. This beautiful, magical place is responsible for many of my art and poems, it is also my refuge from the busy and mundane world.

Ireland is my other beautiful and magical place ...but that you will see in future posts.

Above is coming up from the main road, 1800 ft to the right, to my 2500 sq ft studio. Molly, one of our working dogs, is your guide. The horse, cow and hay barns, shop and house is 1500 ft to the left.

More later, the studio calls......

2009-08-08T19:55:00.005-04:00

Skips Are Sweet

(Skipper)

pastel on sanded paper 2003

Skips Are Sweet, better known as Skipper, is a big, powerful quarter horse, one of 6 in our barn. His job, in the sport of Team Roping, is as a head horse meaning he carries his rider to rope the head of the steer, out of the chute. While Skipper will work as a heel horse, to catch the heels of the steer, he is better suited as a head horse because he is so very strong and fast.

Now having said all that.....Skipper and all his barn mates could care less about roping, hauling around in trailers, winning or steers. The believe it is one of the most insane things humans do....and they believe the list is very long.

Their idea of a good time is a big pasture of lush grass, no flies and extra oats at night.

Simple pleasures....no pressure.

This painting was worked in soft pastel onto sanded paper. I like the way built up layers of color give the painting an impasto oil painting look.

Lots of texture here.