Press Release: Stellers Gallery Annex to Feature Mixed-media Artist Jennifer J. L. Jones, March 14-April 18

Stellers Gallery Annex to Feature Mixed-media Artist Jennifer J.L. Jones, March 14 - April 18 Stellers Gallery Annex at Neptune Beach, FL will host the opening exhibit of renowned painter and mixed-media artist Jennifer J.L. Jones on Friday, March 14 . The exhibit will feature Jones in-person and her new exhibit, Sensai: Fragile Beauty. This is Jones' second solo exhibition at Stellers Gallery Annex and the artist's fourth exhibition at one of Tuttle's galleries. Neptune Beach, Fla. (PRWEB) January 23, 2008 -- Stellers Gallery Annex at Neptune Beach will host the opening exhibit of renowned painter and mixed-media artist Jennifer J.L. Jones on Friday, March 14 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. The exhibit will run through Friday, April 18. Stellers Gallery Annex is located at Beaches Town Center, 200 First Street in Neptune Beach. The exhibit will feature Jones in-person and her new exhibit, Sensai: Fragile Beauty. According to gallery owner Hillary Tuttle, the exhibit is Jones' second solo exhibition at Stellers Gallery Annex and the artist's fourth exhibition at one of Tuttle's galleries. According to Jones, her work is inspired by the seasons, weather patterns, and natural elements, to name a few. "The grace in a falling leaf from a tree in autumn, a pocket of air trapped in ice, the burnt edges on a flower in the hot summer, millions of crushed shells in the form of sand along the beach. The inspiration found in nature for my art seems endless," said Jones. "Beauty is everywhere and as an artist I interpret that beauty, trying to integrate my personal style, and put it out there for people to connect with. My work is part a spiritual search. It is a need to express what sometimes can only be felt; to create an experience unique to each individual," she said. "As I paint, each studio session becomes a form of meditation. My work is an intuitive process. The paint often dictates the final imagery and I allow this to be my guide. The colors I choose to glaze over one another create mood, atmosphere, and a 'vibration' of energy unique to each viewer interacting with the final piece," said Jones. According to Tuttle, each of Jennifer's paintings reveals a pattern, a rhythm, a color field, or a structure that is an ongoing nature-inspired process. "While the paintings represent the personal response of the artist to the environment, they strive to produce a universal response from viewers as well," said Tuttle. "As Jennifer's work evolves, the innate essence and beauty of her work continues to evoke inspiration derived from her painting imagery and technique," she said. Most recently, Jones' credits include her art as part of the permanent art collection at the U.S. Embassy in Lisbon, Portugal. Also, her latest solo exhibits include galleries in Sante Fe, New Mexico and in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. Her work is collected throughout the world and owned by noted collectors including Oprah Winfrey and Judith Belushi Pisano. Throughout her career, Jennifer's paintings have been exhibited in select galleries located in the U.S. and abroad. One of her major installations includes a series of paintings entitled "Five Elements", which provided inspiration for the $75 million Tucker-Sadler designed, 44 Monroe residential high-rise in Phoenix, Az. The work of Jennifer J.L. Jones explores the many fundamental qualities of nature and the idea of energy and beauty through color, texture and the influence of nature. With a vast combination of mediums such as wax, asphalt, oil paint, paper textures and multi-laying, her work evokes emotions, thoughts, and universal connecting points in the observer. Jones received her B.F.A. from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1994. She currently lives and works in Atlanta, Georgia as a self-employed artist. Her work is highly-collected and published throughout the world. Stellers Gallery Annex is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The phone no. is 904.247.7200. The Tuttle also owns Stellers Gallery at Ponte Vedra, at 240 A1A North, Ste. 13 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. Stellers Gallery at Ponte Vedra is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. The phone no. is 904.273.6065. For more information, contact Hillary Tuttle at 904.273.6065. ###

Texas Gallery Representation

My excitement is two-fold as I post this update. First, it's snowing in Atlanta! Yes, it will become sleet in a few hours, but for now it's a beautiful sight for my eyes. I've been working on a painting that is full of milky white pillowy shapes and the snow only adds to my inspiration! I can't wait to see how it turns out and share it with all of you in the near future!


And second, I'm thrilled to announce that I just signed with Artizen Fine Arts, a contemporary gallery located in Dallas, Texas. A few of my paintings will be featured in their next group exhibition opening on Saturday, February 16th, 2008 (6pm-9pm). If my schedule allows I may try to make it out to the opening reception and hope to meet a few of you in the Dallas area if possible. For now, check out their website and put this event on your calendar!

InnerViews: Diane McGregor

InnerViews: A Creative Interview with Diane McGregor

Our first InnerView to kick off 2008 features Santa Fe-based artist, Diane McGregor. Diane's abstract oil paintings are described as atmospheric mists of color and light, sometimes dissolving boundaries of geometric forms, suggesting a mysterious presence amid the austere minimalist grids. For over 20 years, her paintings have been exhibited and represented throughout the United States and are included in international public and private collections. A selection of Diane's paintings were recently acquired by the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center for their permanent art collection. When she is not painting, Diane works as a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, caring for injured and orphaned birds and mammals.

JJLJ: Hello Diane- Welcome to this session of InnerViews and thank you for agreeing to participate!

DM: Thanks for inviting me, Jennifer.

JJLJ: How did you come to work in the medium of oil painting?

DM: Ever since I was 6 years old and got my first paint-by-number set I have loved oil paint, even the smell! I painted all through elementary and high school, and then in college I had to use acrylics and other media, but I’ve always preferred oil on canvas to any other media. I recently read an article about the painter, Karl Benjamin – he said that under a microscope, “acrylic will look solid, opaque, where oil looks like little red or blue jewels suspended in the medium. You can see light going through it, like the effect of stained glass.” Luminosity is an extremely important element in my current work.


Image: Diane McGregor in her NM Studio

JJLJ: What continues to be a source of inspiration for your work?

DM: Nature, the natural world, is my primary inspiration. The seasons are especially moving to me. I grew up in rural areas of Connecticut and New Jersey, so experiencing the seasons was part of my life and connected me to nature in a profound way at an early age. As an adult, I’ve lived in places without 4 seasons for a couple of decades (Tucson, Arizona, and then Hawaii). Now that I live in the mountains of Northern New Mexico, I am rediscovering the joys of watching time pass through seasonal shifts, and that is a humbling, yet comforting, experience.

I also am inspired by the work of other artists, particularly abstract art. I am fervently devoted to abstraction, and I’m always looking at what other artists are doing to express their ideas in an abstract language. I am constantly looking at art, whether it’s in museums, galleries, on the internet, in books, magazines, etc. Santa Fe is a remarkable place to live – it’s one of the top art markets in the US and it’s also surrounded by gorgeous scenery. So my inspiration is continually nourished by both of these things.

Music also influences and guides me as I work. In the studio, I listen almost exclusively to early vocal music, usually 11th-13th century, and mostly I prefer compositions sung by women. Hildegard von Bingen is my favorite composer, but I also listen to early English, French, and Italian compositions. The music transports me as I paint, and I feel this ancient and sacred connection to an earlier time. I think the purity of this music transcends time and helps to keep me focused on the purity I wish to impart to the viewer through my paintings.

JJLJ: Is there anyone who has played a significant role in your career?

DM: In high school, I was very blessed to have an art teacher, Laurence von Beidel, who took me seriously. He encouraged me and made sure I had the best oil paints and sable brushes to work with. I had a pretty rough time in high school, and art was my salvation and my refuge. Later, during my first year of art school at the University of Arizona, I had a professor who changed my life – Sam Scott. He introduced me to abstraction, and what being an abstract painter was all about. Sam continues to be a mentor to me – he lives in Santa Fe and we still get together and talk about art and career issues.


JJLJ: What are you currently working on?

DM: Over the past couple of years my style has evolved from organic/biomorphic abstraction into purely geometric abstraction. So I have been busy building up a new body of work. As I’ve explored the purity and clarity of geometric form, I find myself leaning more and more toward a minimalist viewpoint. I’m very excited about this shift in my work – I was involved with the more organic forms for over 15 years. I feel it’s important to keep expanding and evolving as an artist, although sometimes it’s scary to venture out of our comfort zones and established working methods.

I’m also getting involved in The Cradle Project. Artists from all over the world are making cradles to raise money to help the children of Africa. I went to an exhibition recently which highlighted some of the cradles that are being created, and it’s a wonderful and exciting project. Some of the cradles are functional; most are just exquisite works of art that incorporate the idea of holding and protecting. You can find out more about the project at http://www.thecradleproject.org/ I’m encouraging all artists to get involved.

An interesting connection here: I went to the Sahara in March of 2006, just when I was beginning to feel a change coming in my work – a movement away from organic abstraction and toward the clarity and perfection of geometry. Camping in the deserts of Niger with a group of Tuareg nomads, I was profoundly affected by the harsh beauty of the Sahara. I felt stripped bare of all unnecessary elements in my life and in my work. When I returned to my studio, I felt the definitive shift toward geometric order. I had also been moved by the plight of African children, how isolated they are and the reality of the desperate futures that await them. I came home wanting to do something for them, and by coincidence found out about the Cradle Project.



Sahara, oil on canvas, 30x30 inches (© 2007 Diane McGregor)

JJLJ: How do you see your work influencing others?
DM: There is so much suffering in the world. Through my paintings, I hope to invite people into a visual experience of beauty, peace, and tenderness. I want to remind people of the fragile beauty of the natural world. I seek to connect the viewer with their very deepest sense of who they are and why they are here.

Love Letter, oil on canvas, 8x8 inches (© 2007 Diane McGregor)

JJLJ: What is the strangest or funniest comment or question you've ever gotten about your work?

DM: Well, it’s not strange or funny, but it’s one of the more memorable comments I’ve gotten. I was having a solo show at the Las Cruces Museum of Art (in Las Cruces, New Mexico). Just before the opening reception, I was standing outside admiring the sky – the sunset illuminated the undulating clouds in such a way that the sky looked like one of my paintings. A security guard at the museum was standing next to me. She told me she wasn’t able to understand my paintings at first, but after seeing those clouds she really “got it.” She was so excited about this newly-formed connection to abstraction – she was beaming. And, of course, so was I. As artists we are primarily communicators, and sometimes abstract artists have a tough go in being understood by the general public. I was delighted at having been able to communicate my reverence for Nature’s beauty with an abstract vocabulary.


JJLJ: What is your idea of personal success?

DM: It sounds trite, but: “To love what you’re doing, and to do what you love.” If you can wake up each morning, loving your life, loving what you have to do, that is success.


JJLJ: Are there any links you would like to share?

DM: Yes. My website. The Cradle Project. A great career resource for artists is : Alyson Stanfield's blog. The Astronomy Picture of the day is truly inspiring. And The Wildlife Center is an organization that I am very involved with.



Image: Diane with her sweet rescued Coonies! (KUDOS to you, Diane!!)

JJLJ: Thank you, Diane for contributing to InnerViews. We wish you continued success and look forward to following your career.

DM: Thank you very much, Jennifer. It's been a pleasure.

For more information on Diane's work, please visit her website.

News, Updates & Announcements

After spending a few weeks so busy and traveling and following up with the holidays, it's good to be back in the studio creating again. My new series entitled "Sensai" is underway and explores the idea of fragile beauty. This series will debut on March 14th at my solo exhibit at Stellers Gallery Annex in Neptune Beach, Florida. (Don't forget to mark your calendars so you don't miss this event!)

I am also working on a selection of new paintings for a private exhibition scheduled later in February at Soho Myriad in Atlanta, Georgia. This meet & greet showing was requested by a very special client and will include three other artists. This is truly flattering to be selected from a long list of many talents for such an exclusive event. Soho Myriad not only exhibits my original paintings but they are also my print publisher. The recently helped The Westin select prints of my work ("Verdant Landscape I" & "Verdant Landscape II") for their Virginia Beach collection.

Image: "Serendipity 10" 15"x15" Mixed Media on Wood © Jennifer J L Jones

I know many of you look forward to the annual Art Papers Auction and I'm pleased be an ongoing supporter. Two of my paintings ("Serendipity 10" & "Serendipity 22") were selected for the 9th Annual Art Papers Art Auction, which will be held Saturday, February 2nd, 2008 at Mason Murer Fine Art in Atlanta.

Image: "Serendipity 22" 15"x15" Mixed Media on Wood © Jennifer J L Jones

Art Papers showcases work by famed and emerging artists from around the world and the events are always extremely well attended. They do offer a collector's preview and I believe absentee silent bidding. Please visit their link for more information.


Last, but not least for this newsy post, I'm pleased to announce that the January/February issue of Atlanta Magazine's Home is out and features my painting "Sage Whisper" (created especially for designer Carla Kantola). The image can be found in the "Simply Spectacular" article on page 61.

I hope you've enjoyed the updates and news bits! I look forward to sharing more news & InnerViews with you in the coming weeks!!

American Embassy in Lisbon Art Collection

I'm excited to finally have a chance to share some of the latest news and goings on with all of you. The next few posts to my blog will fill you in and then lead us on to a few new InnerViews just completed and ready to be viewed!

Mid-December was my chance to fly off to Portugal and collect a few of my paintings that had been exhibited and dearly missed by yours truly! It was quite an adventure! I met a lot of wonderful people in general and made a few special new friends, stayed at the incredible Pestana palace (which I highly recommend!), visited The Pena Palace- a castle in beautiful Sintra, put my international driving permit to excellent use (thank goodness I have experience driving in Atlanta!), and had a chance to attend a great book store and art gallery opening in Lisboa. As I post this, three of my paintings are on their way back to the U.S. and I'm thrilled to announce that "Blue Field IV" is now part of the permanent art collection at the American Embassy in Lisbon! I was honored to have the U.S. Ambassador to Portugal himself (Thomas F. Stephenson) meet with me for an official ceremony and was truly on "cloud 9" to see how excited everyone was about the painting becoming a part of their collection! This is most definitely going on my resume and special art collections list!

Another exciting development since I have returned to the states is that I have been offered an exhibition by the owner of the new gallery I visited in Lisboa. With a busy show schedule already this year, I'm looking forward to working out a future exhibition date and returning to Portugal again. What a great way to celebrate the ending of 2007 and the beginning of 2008!

--Stay tuned for the next posts!--

!!! Happy New Year !!!

As I watched the celebratory fireworks bursting and showering in the sky last night above my head, a huge sense of relief washed over me that 2007 was now gone and 2008 has officially arrived. I hadn't thought too much about it up until that point in all honesty (other than feeling like time is moving so quickly), but what I felt after witnessing a few explosions of star-burst, smokey colours in the darkness, was a surge of pure excitement for what is to come in the new year!


2007 was a fantastic year for my artwork- how blessed I've felt to have been able to travel, enjoy exhibitions internationally, and the many wonderful opportunities to share my work with all of you both online and in person!! It's truly an honor to create from the heart and have my work resonate with viewers all over the world.


To my special fans, friends, family, clients, patrons, peers, and secret blogging viewers-- thank you for a spectacular year!! I can't wait to blog later this week to share the many exciting announcements and bits of news I've been keeping under my hat. Check back in a day or two for the latest... and don't forget to continue reading the special InnerViews series - those already posted and upcoming. We have some extremely inspiring and talented individuals out there to celebrate every day!! I hope the new year brings you & yours the hope, energy, peace, love, and happiness that makes it all worth it.

My heart-filled thanks goes out to all of you!! Wishing you an Inspiring and Very Happy New Year!!
~jennifer

InnerViews: Katy Horan

InnerViews: A Creative Interview with Katy Horan

Our final InnerView for 2007 is with New York-based Artist, Katy Horan. Katy is an American painter, printmaker, and illustrator living in Brooklyn and exhibiting her work nationally.

"Crystal Magic"
Image: © Katy Horan

JJLJ: Hello Katy! First of all, let me welcome you to this session of InnerViews. I want to thank you for agreeing to be one of our featured artists!

What is your preferred media and can you tell us a little bit about your drawings included in the Yoriyos "Pied Piper" video?

KH: Right now I work in acrylic and gouache on stained wood. I draw a lot too. I am a big fan of simple pencil on paper and it's nice to see more graphite drawings in galleries these days.

The process we used for the Yoriyos video was really interesting. I drew a ton of images….trees, animals, characters, textures…just lot's of visual elements in multiple views. They were then scanned and the director and animator applied them to 3d models in the computer and animated them then. It was a lot of work and I had major wrist problems afterwards, but it was worth it.

The Pied Piper Video (by Yoriyos)

Credits:
Band: Yoriyos
Title: The Pied Piper
Agency: Rarechords, London
Production Company: Greencard Pictures, New York/ Seaworthy Films, New York
Director: Ron Winter with Jon Watts
Producer: Alicia Van Couvering
3D Animation: Ron Winter, Ian Wilmoth, Bobo Do, Colin Hess
Illustrated by Katy Horan
DP: Matt Santo
Compositing: Ron Winter
Photoshop: Lilah Montgomery, Liz Riccardi

JJLJ: What continues to be a source of inspiration for your work?

KH: Folk art and folk music continue to be very important. It keeps me grounded and reminds me that art doesn't have to be influenced by trends or glamour.

"Offering"
Image: © Katy Horan

JJLJ: Is there anyone who has played a significant role in your career?

KH: My parents are very supportive, so I feel very lucky for that. So far there have been a handful of other artists and gallery people who I have come in to contact with. They have all helped as much as they can, just as I try to help them out as much as I can.

"Healers"
Image: © Katy Horan

JJLJ: What are you currently working on?

KH: I am in the final weeks of getting work done for a big group show at White Walls in San Francisco. It is the biggest, most professional gallery I have ever shown at, so I am being extra obsessed with the quality of what I am making.

"Banjo Song"
Image: © Katy Horan

JJLJ: How do you see your work influencing others?

KH: I haven't seen influence from my work yet. I do think there is a group of young artists working currently that all influence each other in the most subtle, even subconscious ways. The most bizarre thing is that sometimes a couple of us will come up with very similar ideas at the same time, but in different parts of the country without discussing it with each other first. It's like there's a collective unconscious that's always there. I find that really magical.


JJLJ: What is the strangest or funniest comment or question you've ever gotten about your work?

KH: I can't really think of anything that strange…I think my mind is just blanking. Sometimes I hear that my work reminds someone of the dreams they've had as a child….I really like that.

Detail: "When the Horned Maidens Gather"
Image: © Katy Horan

JJLJ: What is your idea of personal success?

KH: Personal success is when you have found your artistic voice and you are allowed the time and space to explore it. I think that allowing yourself to slow down and enjoy the work and the process is also a mark of personal success.

"Midnight"
Image: © Katy Horan

JJLJ: Are there any links you would like to share?

KH: Sure, this is my website: www.katyart.com

This is a really wonderful online shop run by my friend Kelly Lynn Jones who is also an awesome artist herself): www.littlepaperplanes.com

These are some artists that I really dig and admire:

Evan B harris (out of Portland, Or) http://www.evanbharris.com

Kathleen Lolley (out of Louisville, Ky) http://www.kathleenlolley.com

Alex Lukas (out of Philly) http://www.alexlukas.com

there are a million more, but I'll just leave you with those right now.

Oh yeah…this is a Bjork video that I'm in (I'm one of the jumpers).

http://www.spinner.com/2007/12/05/bjork-declare-independence-video-of-the-day/

JJLJ: Thank you, Katy for contributing to InnerViews. We wish you continued success and look forward to following your career into the New Year!

KH: You are very welcome!

"When the Horned Maidens Gather"
Image: © Katy Horan

For more information on Katy's work, please visit her website.

Happy Holidays!

I'm back from a successful trip to Portugal, just in time to play a little catch up and celebrate the holidays. There is quite a bit of exciting news to share with all of you, but will have to wait until after some of the seasonal festivities have their fair shake, so stay tuned... More soon!! In the mean time... Know that I am wishing all of you every joy of this beautiful season and a New Year full of all things good (including more ART!)
Warmest Wishes to you and yours....
~jennifer

News & Updates

I hope those of you viewing my blog have been enjoying the InnerViews series. We've got some pretty exciting interviews underway and lined up for posting later in December, so I hope you will check back often and/or subscribe so you don't miss one!

Time is flying... and I know we all feel it. I was reminded of this not only by the shock of Thanksgiving coming and going in what felt like a quiet 'blip' this year for me, but also was reminded yesterday when I received my first Christmas card of the season! There was also a 'Happy New Year' blessing included and while coming from a dear person in my life, I have to admit the shock of time never escapes! I admittedly am a little behind in that regard this year... something a little unusual for me, but that just means things have been good and busier than usual!

That being said, I've just completed a new commissioned painting for the JW Marriott in Houston,Texas. This painting will be installed and exhibited in the lobby as part of their permanent collection, and just in time for the grande opening.

Commission for JW Marriott, Houston, Texas (Image © 2007 Jennifer J L Jones)

Also, the Phoenix Squaw Peak Hilton has just acquired a selection of giclee prints of my work to install in their Guest Rooms and Casitas. I recently visited several hotels that own my prints and a few original commissioned works and I'd be lying if I said I didn't get a kick out of it and have someone take my picture next to the artwork. It really is a joy to know that my work can be viewed in such busy public spaces. I only hope this continues for the new year. With the help of a new art consultant I am thrilled to be working with now, my artwork is being seriously considered for her client collections located in China as well as London. I hope to post more related new soon!

And speaking of international ideas... I'm off to Portugal soon to reclaim and bring home a selection of my paintings that were on display for over a year and that I have missed dearly. Last time I was in Portugal I was completely blown away by the beauty and culture-- let's hope I still want to come back once I'm over there!

InnerViews: Ann Roth

InnerViews: A Creative Interview with Ann Roth

This InnerView features Atlanta-based actor and designer, Ann Roth. Ann creates custom designed shoes for women and was voted best local designer in the SP Sunday Best Reader's 2007 Choice Awards. Her unique shoes are available exclusively through nationally selected boutiques.

Ann Roth

JJLJ: Hello Ann - Welcome to this session of InnerViews!

AR: Thanks so much, Jennifer. I'm honored that you picked me!

JJLJ: How did you become a shoe designer?

AR: Well, shoe design sort of found me. I was in a play several years ago, and my dance shoe came apart. My dance partner gave me some super-strong glue to fix it, and that night I thought it might be cool to also glue buttons and bows to existing shoes in my closet. That led to covering a pair of old leather mules in fabric, and then taking apart a few pairs to see how they were made. Shoe design and learning about shoe construction became an obsession of sorts, so I spent every free moment researching and reading anything I could about it. During these months of experimenting and research, I came across a pair of fabric shoes in a magazine and fell in love. I woke up several days later with a vision of blue toile espadrilles with silver sequins. I went to the fabric store that day, bought some blue toile, and went to work creating what I had envisioned. I wore these shoes everywhere I could, and soon friends and family were asking for their own creations. One of these friends (Sabrina Sexton) suggested I go into business and offered to create my website and take some photos (she is unbelievably talented). I never questioned it- I just knew that was what I was supposed to do, so I went for it. I quickly learned that I needed manufacturing help because my grandma's sewing machine just couldn't do everything I wanted it to. So, after several more months of research and talking to everyone I could, I found a manufacturer and sent them my prototypes. I launched my website in March of '06 and quit my full-time office job that June. It's been an amazing ride ever since.

Brussels, Vintage Safari Collection © Ann Roth Shoes

JJLJ: What continues to be a source of inspiration for your work?

AR: EVERYTHING. My method in shoe design as well as acting is to keep my eyes wide open and try and absorb every experience and sight that I can. Then, when it comes time to do the 'work', I just allow what's inside me to come out and be translated into whatever it is I happen to be working on. It's always surprising to see what happens. But as far as tangible inspirations, I have met so many other designers and artists whose passion and positive energy totally keeps me going. I love reading biographies and trade journals, so I'm also inspired by most any kind of entrepreneur. And of course, I look up to so many shoe designers throughout history: Salvatore Ferragamo, who created his first pair of shoes for his mom when he was twelve because she didn't have any nice shoes to wear to church. That is my favorite and reminds me that humble beginnings often lead to the greatest discoveries and creations.

Spumoni, Spring 2006 Collection © Ann Roth Shoes

JJLJ: Is there anyone who has played a significant role in your career?

AR: Oh my goodness - who hasn't? If it weren't for the wonderful encouragement from family, friends, customers, boutiques, the press --- pretty much anyone who has liked my shoes has helped me get to where I am now. I am so thankful for each and every one of them. But I must give a special shout-out to two people: Sabrina, my friend and web designer/ photographer who not only believed in me from the very beginning, but has also contributed to my success because her pictures and web design are just so darn good. And also my husband Randy who believed in me enough to encourage me to quit my day job last year and pursue shoes full-time. He has been everything from my box painter to my accountant, business partner and coach, and best friend. He's one in a million.

JJLJ: What are you currently working on?

AR: I'm currently partnering with Coleccion Luna on a shoe made of vintage fabric recycled from skirts and clothing in Guatemala. Each pair is unique and slightly different and 20% of all the sales will go to WIN NOW, a non-profit organization that supports charitable causes in Latin American countries. Right now they are teamed up with CARE International to help stop the cycle of poverty in Guatemala City. We're calling the shoe 'Cha-Cha Chica' because it's fun and sassy but with Latin roots that help a great cause.

'Cha-Cha Chica' © Ann Roth Shoes

JJLJ: How do you see your work influencing others?

AR: I hope that I inspire others to pursue their creative dreams in one way or another. Not everyone has to start a business (I wouldn't wish it on just anyone), but I try to encourage folks to find a way to take that art class, learn to belly dance, or travel to India if that's their dream. You only go around once in this life, and I believe we are meant to live each day to the fullest.

JJLJ: What is the strangest or funniest comment or question you've ever gotten about your work?

AR: Hmmm... I guess I haven't had a whole lot strange or funny questions. My favorites though, are the custom design requests that are really personal and unique. Like one lady wanted a shoe with a southwest theme, so I used a serepe fabric and embellished them with leather ties and turquoise beads. When a good friend got certified for scuba diving, I did a pair of 'divers down' shoes with the red and white flag on the toe and little glass fish dangling from the heel. I've done pirate-themed shoes, owl shoes, even a 'rhinestone cowboy' shoe of faux python with a huge feather and a rhinestone buckle on the toe. These one-of-a-kind creations are my favorite and I think it's absolutely endless what can be done.

Provence, A Perfect Day Collection © Ann Roth Shoes

JJLJ: What is your idea of personal success?

AR: I feel most successful when I have had a productive day, have inspired someone or have been inspired. That and having some money in the bank, some to enjoy, and some to give away - I'd call that success.

JJLJ: Are there any links you would like to share?

AR: Wow - how many can I list? For starters, www.beehiveco-op.com is a store in Atlanta that carries all local designers. Everything from shoes to clothing to lamps, jewelry, belts, home decor - there's even a girl who makes homemade cupcakes everyday and delivers them. It's a pretty neat store and a lot of my fellow designer friends were introduced to me there. Katriesa Raines is a good friend and fantastic clothing designer - she introduced me to the Beehive. Her line is Olive - www.olivestyle.com - and she does the most adorable dresses and jackets I've ever seen. There are a few other designers not at the Beehive I'd like to share: www.coleccionluna.com - she has her bags made in Guatemala from vintage dresses and hand-loomed fabric. She supports several sewing co-ops there and has even started a non-profit called Word In Need Now that supports charitable causes in Latin American countries. There's also www.barijonline.com out of San Francisco - super cute handbags made from patchwork and fabric strips - she adds vintage brooches to every bag so each one is unique. I also just met Lynn of www.lyloudesigns.com. She's in Athens, GA. Fun, user-friendly bags made of cool fabric. I like the slightly bohemian vibe of them since I am a closet hippie myself! Gosh - I seem to be doing all handbags. I guess I like fabric a whole lot! And of course I have to repeat - www.sabrinasexton.com - my fabulous photographer and friend - she is hands down one of the best photographers I've seen and so humble about it.


JJLJ: Thank you, Ann for contributing to InnerViews. We wish you continued success and look forward to following your career (and wearing your designs!)....

AR: Thank you so much! I can't wait to read the future InnerViews! What a great idea.

Several Styles from Fall 2006 Collection © Ann Roth Shoes

For more information on Ann's work, please visit her website.

Hunter Kirkland Contemporary Group Exhibit

For the holidays, Hunter Kirkland Contemporary in Santa Fe, New Mexico is having a group exhibition featuring a selection of my recent paintings. The opening reception is Friday, November 23, 2007 (the day after Thanksgiving). This exhibit will be on display through January 6, 2008.

My thanks to all of you for your incredible ongoing support! Wishing you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving and a safe holiday weekend!

InnerViews: Doug Fogelson

InnerViews: A Creative Interview with Douglas Reid Fogelson

This InnerView features Chicago-based photographer, Doug Fogelson. Doug is well-known for his architectural and commercial photography as well as his unique personal photography techniques and installations. His work is featured in international exhibitions, galleries, museums and included in national collections. In addition to his photography, Doug is the founder and director of an independent publishing company, Front Forty Press.

Image © Doug Fogelson

JJLJ: Hello Doug - Welcome to this session of InnerViews and thank you for agreeing to participate!

How did you come to work in the medium of photography?

DRF: I started off in photography by taking a class in the first university I attended (Southern Illinois University in Carbondale). Though I was very interested, I still received a ‘D’ grade from the teacher. The following year I took off from college and traveled to England and Australia working on a student visa. I carried my camera to both countries but shot a total of about 4 rolls the whole time traveling. Following that experience I decided to enroll in Columbia College in Chicago and explore my creative side more seriously. It was a toss up between acting (in front of a camera) or photography (behind the camera), as I had no real skills in painting/drawing beyond some crazy cartoons in class notebooks. Photography won and we have been together ever since.

JJLJ: What continues to be a source of inspiration for your work?

DRF: A personal connection/conundrum with man and nature is the inspiration for all of my work. Feeling conflicted about how humans treat nature and each other during the short time alive on Earth informs my work. So does the connection to be found in actual natural spaces without the obvious footprint of humanity as well as the connection found in the idea of such ‘places’ as they exist in my psyche. Living in Chicago I’m faced with a few conflicts just finding the kinds of natural spaces that bring me to a place of native connection with the Earth. The city has parks and forest preserves but it seems like they are all touched by litter or have a highway nearby and airplanes on landing patterns overhead. To get to the most intense nature I have to drive out quite far (or get on an airplane) and I’m finding this increasingly difficult to do. Therefore the nature I enjoy can also be as it exists in my imagination or memory (or document) of such places, even perhaps as I idealize them. The same goes for the human side of the duality.

As a result of years of living in cities I’ve increased the deep longing and love for natural space that became embedded in my psyche as a youth, even as my time physically spent in them diminishes. Couple that with the not so gradual destruction of Earth’s resources on a global scale (the scraping, over fishing and toxification of our oceans/freshwater, the deforestation, sprawl and pollution of our land, and the putrification of our atmosphere via emissions, smog, etc…) and you have a conundrum on your hands. I want to honor and celebrate that which creates the conditions for life on Earth via my photography and this always leads to questioning the choices we make as humans.


JJLJ: Is there anyone who has played a significant role in your career?

DRF: Sure, many people. At the early stages my “aunt” Margie Fogelson (widower of a relative who was not really an uncle but close enough) took me to the museums and gave me coloring books. I sat on the floor of her apartment after visiting the Art Institute and other such places while she and my mom would drink Irish whiskey and smoke cigarettes. Memories of Aunt Margie are like remembering stained glass windows, paintings, and well-crafted woodwork. Connected to her in other formative ways are my mom’s mom who painted in the 60’s (very geometric modern styles) and my mother herself who, though not a visual artist, has a unique sort of creative energy.

Much later (when I enrolled in Columbia) I met an artist named Matthew Schreiber who became my roommate until I graduated from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Matt’s talent and commitment showed me that it was possible to be an artist in a way I never allowed myself to believe before that. One could say he ‘legitimized’ the occupation for me at a time when people are all telling you how to prepare for life as a grown-up, productive member of society. I still have skepticism about full time artists making a living, but I never question the calling and the practice of a true artist since living with Matt Schreiber.

JJLJ: What are you currently working on?

DRF: This year I’ve been trying to get out to natural spaces and photograph them in my overlapping style as much as possible (wish it were more!). I want to round out that section of my work (Biota) before the leaves fall off completely. Biota is not limited to the region where I live so I see this as a reason to get on airplanes and fly to other ecosystems- especially in winter. All of my series are made when the longing for them is peaking and I want to understand more about that category in specific. I spent years working on Ocean (Cush) and Air (Etheria) images in this manner (in-between working my day job and related things). Same goes for when I was strongly in the mode of exploring the built world/human (Intersections) and I continue to shoot each element as is possible on an ongoing basis. Now I’m feeling the strong pull of the ground and of the living non-human systems. When I am out there walking and taking my photos it is about communion with these places and life forms. Back in my studio I spend a lot of time “seeing” the places I walked on the light box and on the screen after the film is scanned. This relates to the psyche again for as I’m so in love with nature so much more of my time is spent with it in virtual way getting cross-eyes on the computer monitor.


JJLJ: How do you see your work influencing others?

DRF: Probably in book form most of all. Gallery and museum shows are great and they are the best way to really see the prints in the proper size, etc… however today I think that the book as a vehicle for communication of visual art is the best method. I should say that this applies only to artists who are not showing in major museums or in major exhibitions be it gallery, public, art fairs or other. The famous artists have books to go with all of their amazing shows already. Regarding my imagery, it looks acceptable online perhaps but that is nowhere near as intense as standing in front of an eight foot wide image. It looks great in person but how many people really get to see it in the month or two it is on the walls of the gallery or museum? In book form it is possible to combine a decent visual experience of the art with supporting materials that enhance the understanding of the art and concepts relative to it. If I want people to value nature more and question our ways of living, sharing in the joy of looking at overlapping images, a book may be a way to reach a larger quantity of people.


JJLJ: What is the strangest or funniest comment or question you've ever gotten about your work?

DRF: Hmmmm. I like it when people say it makes them see stuff that’s not there. Like when they say that photos of waves look like clouds or vice versa.


JJLJ: What is your idea of personal success?

DRF: Success in art is a double-edged sword. On the one side you have a personal engagement with the work and you alone can tell if it is successful or not, if you have done enough to make it what you think it should be, or if it just does ‘it’ for you. On the other side there are the social and public ideas of success. Showing and selling are great measures of success too. This means your work has value to the marketplace and in the arts this is an incredibly challenging thing to accomplish. I hope for a blend of both. I strive to have my art be accessible to everybody (even if I’m thinking of it with my head in the philosophical clouds). I want it to engage the viewer in a dialog between themselves and the subject matter depicted in the photographs. My goal is for the viewer and myself to think about and feel how they personally relate in space and time to these things (not to me as the photographer). If the work facilitates this then perhaps it is successful.


JJLJ: Are there any links you would like to share?

DRF: Sure. Try these:

Endgame
End Game The Book
Amazing Ribs
WooLoo
Surfline
RiverBank Neighbors
Forest Council
Einstein Online
Explore Pub
Friesian

JJLJ: Thank you, Doug for contributing to Inner Views. We wish you continued success and look forward to following your career.

DRF: THANKS!

For more information on Doug's work and the Front Forty Press, please visit
these links:

Doug Fogelson
Front Forty Press
Front Forty Press Blog
DRF Photography

Jennifer Jones Art Assistant

It's so interesting the way things work out in regards to who we meet, when we meet them and why. I'm still of the belief that timing is everything because just as I was about to postpone my search for an assistant until the new year, yet again, something great happened! Thanks to some aligning stars, some good friends, and a restless paralegal, I'm thrilled to announce that Jeremy has agreed to be my new assistant! I just wanted to take a moment to share the good news and introduce him (albeit virtually) to all of you. With a double major and degree in Art History and International Studies to his credit, Jeremy is also a writer and part of the editorial staff of the Atlanta based deconform publication. To find out more, check out his is blog GHOSTMAP MICROWAVE.

Jennifer Jones, Jeremy Abernathy, and art critic, Jerry Cullum at the Guillotine Post Opening Reception October, 13, 2007. (Photo: Rick Newby)

2008 Exhibition Schedule

2008 is just around the corner and I will soon be busy in the studio preparing for three upcoming Solo Shows. Mark your calendars early so you can plan on catching one or more of these future exhibitions!

•March 14th, 2008 (Stellers Gallery, Neptune Beach, FL, U.S.)
•May 23, 2008 (Hunter Kirkland Contemporary, Santa Fe, NM, U.S.)
•July 3, 2008 (Belushi Pisano Gallery, Martha's Vineyard, MA, U.S.)

Thanks to photographer Rick Newby, I now have a few images to share with you from the October 13th opening reception of my solo show at the Guillotine Post Gallery. To view additional images from this event and other events, please visit my website slide shows page. Thanks again to all of you able to make it out to celebrate and support my work! Looking forward to seeing you at the next event!

InnerViews: Carla Kantola

InnerViews: A Creative Interview with Interior Designer Carla Kantola

Our InnerView today is with Interior Designer, Carla Kantola. Carla's Atlanta-based firm (C. Kantola Interiors, Inc.) creates aesthetically pleasing interiors designed specifically for each client's individual lifestyle.

Image: © C.Kantola Interiors

JJLJ: Hello Carla! First of all, let me welcome you to this session of InnerViews. I want to thank you for agreeing to be a part of this new series.

How did you come to work in Interior Design?

CK: I have always had a love for design and an interest in houses. My husband and I renovated six houses and built two so I really think it might be a sickness. Several friends encouraged me to become a “decorator” but I knew I didn’t want to do that until I had the proper education to support it. When we moved to Atlanta approx. 13 years ago I immediately researched colleges that offered accredited interior design programs and decided on the Art Institute. After completing a BFA in Interior Design and working part time for a couple of design firms I was fortunate to land a job at Gandy Peace, a high-end residential firm. Working for the extremely talented Charles Gandy and Bill Peace was an experience that I will always be grateful for. A year after Charles retired I decided that it was time to try it on my own so here I am.

Image: © C.Kantola Interiors

JJLJ: What continues to be a source of inspiration for your work?

CK: So many things inspire me and that’s why I love design so much. It is ever changing. I love observing nature and trying to translate it into a room whether it be a particular color, texture or shape. Traveling is another wonderful inspiration. You never know what will spark an idea. As a matter of fact, I’m still waiting to create a room based on the colors of this beautiful cat my husband and I saw when shopping at a men’s boutique in Savannah. Think of soft taupe walls with elegant white curtains and a splash of aqua blue in a pillow or piece of furniture or art.

Image: © C.Kantola Interiors

JJLJ: Is there anyone who has played a significant role in your career?

CK: Charles Gandy and Bill Peace as I mentioned before have probably played the most important role in my career. Their work is amazing and I learned so much about design and the business side of design while working for them.


JJLJ: What are you currently working on?

CK: Currently I’m working primarily on our own home. We moved back to Atlanta this past December after having lived in Dallas, Texas for two years so I have tried to focus on our house as much as possible. Attached are a few photos of our house. I’ve also given myself permission to take this past year off so I could have a break. As with any job we all need to get away from time to time so we can re-energize ourselves and clear our minds. I think this is crucial to any one who works in a creative field and I feel very fortunate that I have been able to do this.

Image: © C.Kantola Interiors

JJLJ: How do you see your work influencing others?

CK: I hope that I enrich people’s lives by helping them make their home a place where they feel comfortable, tranquility as well as happiness. This sounds hokey but your home should be a place where you can go to escape the day to day craziness.


JJLJ: What is the strangest or funniest comment or question you've ever gotten about your work?

CK: Probably the funniest thing someone has said about my work was when we lived in Dallas and a neighbor knocked on our door unexpectedly to ask a question about our fence. I invited her in and as she looked around she commented “wow, I don’t like contemporary design but your house looks good.” I’m still not sure if she liked it or not!


JJLJ: What is your idea of personal success?

CK: My idea of personal success is achieving whatever you set your personal goals to be. Don’t set your goals based on someone else’s standards but what you want achieve.

Image: © C.Kantola Interiors

JJLJ: Are there any links you would like to share?

CK: I currently can’t think of any links to list but my website is www.ckantolainteriors.com.


JJLJ: Thank you, Carla for contributing to InnerViews. We wish you continued success and look forward to following your career.

CK: Thanks, Jennifer.

For more information on Carla's designs, please visit her website.

News & Updates

I hope you all enjoyed our first InnerView featuring Netherlands Artist, Brit Hammer. There are many more exciting InnerViews in the works and our next interview will (hopefully) be posted later this weekend. It's been an exciting few weeks that have passed in a flash. Lots of news has come and gone already so I'll try to play a little bit of catch up as I can- in between our upcoming InnerViews in the works and new paintings happening in the studio.

I'm pleased to announce that the Heart to Heart Auction at the Timothy Michael Gallery in Roswell was a great success and exceeded the fundraising goal. It's wonderful to know that children in Cambodia will be getting a state of the art school soon. Thanks to all of you who bid on the work featured at this event and especially to Michael and Jennifer Schwartz- two of my new collectors!

For more information about the Heart to Heart School in Cambodia, please visit their website as well as the American Assistance for Cambodia website.