In Memory of "Serendipity #28"

"Serendipity #28"

15"x15" 

Mixed Media Painting on Wood

© Jennifer J L Jones

I always tease that my paintings are my "children".  From conception to birth... I love each and every one of them. But, eventually I have to let go of them; it becomes necessary to kick them out of the studio so they can "be free" and go out into the world and find their way to the galleries and into collections. Of course I'm incredibly protective and always hoping for the best. Ideally they find someone that adores them and decidedly can't live without them. It makes my heart happy when I know the paintings are being enjoyed in a safe environment and it's pure joy to know that my work has reached collections worldwide. But until they get to those locations... there is the dreaded matter of shipping! 

I can't be sure what exactly happens when a shipment of paintings heads out into the world of transit... I cross my fingers that the artwork is packaged properly, insured, and that it will reach its final destination in perfect condition. Sadly, this isn't always the case. I've definitely had my luck in numbers... but the other day I found out that my dear little "Serendipity #28" didn't reach the gallery without suffering a terrible tragedy.  I suppose the guy driving the forklift that pierced the shipment and created a decent size hole through the wooden panel didn't notice the 'FRAGILE' stickers all over the box. Sigh.... Poor little painting! Luckily my work is always professionally packaged and insured, so once the "inspection" is completed and the insurance claim goes through, I can add UPS to my list of collectors. (I should note here though that I've been shipping through UPS nearly every week for years and I think I've only had three damaged pieces total, so the overall % has actually been in my favor.)

ANYWAY, the point of this post is to send out a gentle reminder and encourage everyone to ALWAYS effectively package your artwork - (no matter what size, shape, value, etc.) - to the best of your ability.  And please, please, please be sure to insure your precious creations. 

  

Inspiring Photographer

OK, so... I've been painting, reading, singing, and soaking up what feels like a cascade of inspiration while working on new paintings-- the inspiration is literally coming in and at me from all directions-- from everywhere! (Such an incredible experience when we're open to it!)  Because of this inspiration, I have some great news and posts coming up.....

but for now... what I found so inspiring today... was stumbling upon the photography of Cameron Krone.  Can I just say: God bless "Google Alerts"?  

I should probably confess that I can be quite a snob when it comes to artwork I find personally appealing. Rarely do I immediately "click" with an artist's work. Sometimes I'll like one or two pieces... but their entire body of work or style? Hmm.... I like to joke that it's because of my fine training at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. They taught us well... and those of us that survived critiques and didn't run out crying can critique the hell out of anything. Even a box of kleenex if we wanted to. I have my BFA degree to prove it! :-)  Anyway... suffice to say, I'm picky. Which makes finding art and artists that I become an instant fan of... a big deal for me. 

So, back to today.... occasionally I receive news via Google re: what my galleries are up to...  Today, an 'alert' mentioned Fay Gold and a photographer from NY who did a photo shoot at her home here in Atlanta... my curiosity was piqued.  And that is how I found out about Cameron's wonderful work. 

Before I knew it I was sending him a note to compliment his work.  And to my wonderful delight, he took the time to view my work as well and we're now in negotiations for an artist trade! I'm THRILLED (to put it mildly!) -Those of you following my blog or who know me personally, know how much I adore trades!- My hope is to trade a painting(s) that will warrant a personal photo shoot with him this November while I'm visiting NYC.... and hopefully by posting my excitement in the blog I'm not jinxing anything! 

Anyway, just wanted to introduce his fine photography to those of you who might not be familiar with or haven't seen his work before. 

To my new friend.... I say, "Bravo, Mr. Krone!!"  

P.S. I hope you don't mind me blog-bragging-- and yes, the song posted by Spoon, "I turn my camera on" is meant to be funny. 

Anniversary

This post is dedicated to my incredible parents.  

This weekend, they are celebrating their 45th Wedding Anniversary!!

And I, their youngest of five, celebrate their love, passion, sense of adventure, commitment, strength, wisdom, guidance, compassion, and amazing support. 

For without them, I wouldn't be here to follow my dream as an artist and put as much beauty out into the world as I possibly can. 

I can only hope that one day I will find the kind of true love that they have known throughout their marriage. They are quite simply remarkable. My parents are my pillars.

Happy Anniversary, Mom & Dad!! 

May you have another 45 years of love, happiness, and adventure together!

"Two Worlds"

"Two Worlds" installed & in good company with my favorite Buddha Head

It felt like Christmas yesterday when UPS showed up to deliver my most recent art acquisition! I now have "Two Worlds" (created by my dear friend, Jessica Pisano) in my personal art collection.   This piece is from Jessica's latest series & featured in her solo exhibit this month at the Belushi Pisano Gallery on Martha's Vineyard. Her work is capturing the eyes of many and Cape Cod Life Magazine just did an artist profile on her in their latest Art Issue talking about this new series! I'm so glad I snagged "Two Worlds"  before anyone else could... it's already hanging up in my living room and love it! This one is truly is a lil' beauty! .... Thanks, Jessica!

"Two Worlds" 

6" x 6"

Mixed Media on Wood Panel: B&W Photograph, Acrylic, & Pencil

© 2008 Jessica Pisano

www.jessicapisano.com

Art + Artisans Representation

I'm pleased to announce that Art + Artisans Consulting, Inc. is now representing my work in Austin and Houston, Texas. Art + Artisans is a full service art consulting firm assisting clients with art acquisition and collection management. I've just shipped out a selection of my Serendipity paintings for their inventory and looking forward to announcing future placement of these pieces in new collections. Stay tuned!!

October Exhibition Cancelled

Installation View at Artizen Fine Arts, Dallas, TX

With regret, I announce that my three person exhibition scheduled for October at Artizen Fine Arts Gallery in Dallas, Texas has been cancelled. My apologies to those of you who were making arrangements and planning to attend the opening reception; I'm sorry I won't have the opportunity to share my paintings at this gallery with you in person, but will be sure to keep you posted on other upcoming events & exhibitions featuring my work.

Thank you so much for your continued support!!

Fragile! Handle With Care...

August 1st?? I can hardly believe it,  but the heat is a clear indication that it is indeed... the middle of summer. 

Today I'm not only working on commissioned paintings, but also trying my best to repair two paintings that were sadly damaged. The studio heats up pretty quickly when I'm busy... and today is one of those especially melty summer dog days. While the heat has me mostly thinking about Otter Pops.... (mmm.... Otter Pops....)...

...the artwork has me thinking a little more about the fragile nature of all things. 

 And so ... I thought it would be a good idea to share some tips on caring for your artwork. 

There are so many great books and of course detailed information at your fingertips with the internet, but for now here are a few quick guidelines and gentle reminders...  (I found an almost overwhelming amount of information when I looked, but felt that a great art blog I stumbled upon really summed it up in a short, clever, fun way, so I'm re-posting here with a link back and would like to thank the Art Addict.)

Now go get your ice cream/popsicle fix and don't forget to take good care of your precious works of art! :-)

~Jen

DISPLAYING ART

Never hang or place artwork in direct sunlight. The sun is death to art. Photographs and drawings are particularly susceptible to fading. If you want to be extra protective of your artwork, rotate it as often as possible allowing for some time in dark spaces or storage.

Do not hang artwork in or near sources of heat or humidity, i.e., bathrooms, heaters, etc. No matter how well you think something is framed or protected, humidity will surely warp and damage most surfaces.

Do not leave artwork outside (unless it is designed for outdoor viewing). Basements and garages are not recommended places to store artwork because of exposure to inclement weather, humidity, and dampness.

Do not throw, dropkick, dribble, juggle, finger-spin, break-dance upon, or otherwise disrespect your artwork. Treat it like art (and I say your heart!) and you'll enjoy a long and fulfilling life together.

CLEANING ART

If you are collecting paintings, photographs, framed drawings, and most sculpture made from a hard material - bronze, plastic, etc. - there are some basic rules to follow when cleaning your art. If the artwork is made out of something odd - chocolate, urine, blood, primordial ooze, etc. - make sure to contact the gallery from which you purchased it to learn about how to clean the work.

Avoid letting dust accumulate on artwork. When dusting your artwork, use a can of compressed air, or a very soft, non-abrasive, lint free cloth. Paper towels are a no-no because they can leave tiny scratches.

Use a plastic cleaner, not commercial glass cleaner, on Plexiglas. (Art Addict recommends Novus Plastic Clean & Shine). Apply the plastic cleaner with a soft non-abrasive cloth. NOTE: Spray the cleaning solution on the cloth, never directly onto glass or Plexiglas.

Keep artwork away from dogs, flying fish, cats, flying cats, ponies, potbellied pigs, ferrets, llamas, constricting snakes, lemurs, monkeys (flying or otherwise), and pretty much any and all animals exhibiting claws, feathers, hooves, fangs, bottomless curiosity, and/or opposable thumbs.

HANDLING ART

When handling artwork, always try to use white art-handling cotton gloves. Never touch the surface of an unframed artwork without gloves; even clean hands leave a corrosive residue. To purchase art-handling gloves check your local art supply stores or click here.

Avoid damage to fragile edges and corners of artwork by padding the work during installation or hanging. Always use padding -- a blanket, bubble wrap, or foam -- when resting artwork on hard surfaces.

Never handle, move, or hang large works of art alone; you can easily damage the art. Or yourself. Art Addict's foot broke the fall of a large photograph she was hanging alone once. She broke a toe. The art was spared.

When packing and storing artwork, always use stable, pH-neutral, archival materials. If you are unsure what that means, contact your local art store or framer and they will show you materials that fit these requirements. One favorite tip for the handling of art is that the bubbles in the bubble wrap should always be on the outside.

Inspiring Others

"As an artist, my most significant reward is to know that 

my work has affected even one viewer..."

This is the last sentence from my artist statement and is something I am always striving for. To somehow affect or inspire others through my work... 

"Five Elements"

48"x60" Mixed Media on Wood

© Jennifer J L Jones

Last year I found out that one of my paintings, "Five Elements" helped inspire the design of a $70 million high-rise building in Phoenix, Arizona. Just this morning I received an update about the progress of this project and wanted to share it with all of you... The reward of knowing that my work was recognized is a blessing for me!

Thanks to all of you who have taken the time over the years to let me know how my work has touched your lives...  It means so much to me and I send out my whole hearted thanks for all of your ongoing support!

~Jennifer

44 Monroe is a symbol of downtown Phoenix’s resurgence

July 30th, 2008

Like the mythological bird that rises from its ashes, downtown Phoenix has been reborn.

The tallest residential building in Arizona, 44 Monroe, is one of many signs of the downtown’s rebirth. Located at Monroe and First streets, the 34-story, 196-unit condo tower is expected to be completed by mid-2009.

The building is next to the light rail and within walking distance of downtown businesses and attractions.

Not surprisingly, residents of 44 Monroe have incredible views of downtown Phoenix from inside their units and their balconies. The units also come with travertine tile in the kitchen and foyer areas, granite countertops in kitchens, sound- and fire-rated partitions and Kohler fixtures in bathrooms.

The eighth floor offers several community amenities: a fitness room, business center, conference room, community room with catering kitchen and outdoor grill area and a pool and spa area with restrooms.

A seven-floor parking garage, which has cameras and other security features, provides parking for residents. Additionally, there is metered parking on Monroe Street and parking garages in the area.

Prices go from $483,100 to $4.19 million. Size ranges from 965 to 4,268 square feet. Units come in a variety of one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans.

Designed by San Diego-based Tucker Sadler Architects, the building was inspired partly by a painting from artist Jennifer J.L. Jones called “Five Elements.”  The five vertical fins on the facade correspond with the five Chinese elements of nature — earth, wood, water, metal and fire — featured in the painting. The design element is also a theme in the building’s interior.

Seductive Savannah

After my show last week at Fay Gold Gallery, I took a little break from the studio and Atlanta for a summer weekend jaunt to visit an old love... the sweet city of Savannah.  My affair with Savannah began when I was 17 (to check out SCAD) and has haunted me with it's seductive southern charm ever since. Each visit has been a unique adventure (for good or bad- it's all relative!) and I'm never disappointed.  As some of you may or may not know, I've seriously considered moving to Savannah at least half a dozen times over the years. Something always pulls me back... the natural beauty of oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, ...

... the 18th century garden squares surrounded by historical homes and stories, the soulful lull of being near the water, the incredible creative people that I always seem to meet at just the right moments and whom enrich my life in different ways... it's quite simply enchanting.

The plan for this latest visit was to meet up with jewelry artist Heather Lindsey Stewart.  I became a fan of Heather's designs about a year ago and have been pining for her jewelry ever since.  Heather is co-owner of Kobo Gallery, located downtown on Barnard Street. My traveling companion, Vene and I had the opportunity to meet a few of the other artists as well while at the gallery and peruse their impressive collections. My affinity to Heather's work and our aesthetic connection made this a most enjoyable experience.   Sharing our artistic backgrounds and the serendipitous ways in which we work and find our inspiration was an invaluable exchange.  We even talked about collaborating at some point! I was giddy choosing a few beautiful pieces for my ever growing handmade jewelry collection and am all too happy to support, boast and brag all about her work! It's gorgeous and truth be told, I'm officially addicted!                                                                                                                                                                       

My new beautiful Rose Cuff created by Heather Lindsey Stewart

Meeting with Heather at Kobo Gallery

Showing off my Rose Cuff before our evening tour

The rest of our time in the siren named Savannah was well spent and since Vene is a writer, I believe she was able to best blog about this and capture our time in a much more poetic way than I could ever hope to... I suppose I could make mention of a few other things that were left out, but in an effort to protect the guilty and the innocent (including yours truly, in no particular order!), it's probably best to just include a few snapshots for now...

With Vene posing in front of Six Pence Pub

(you might recognize this place from the Julia Roberts flick, "Something to Talk About")

Since back I've been working steadfast on my commissioned work and next week I'll be starting a new series of paintings to prepare for my Texas show in October at Artizen. To keep things fresh and inspired, I'll be planning other upcoming getaways.... On the list? St. Augustine to visit my dear friend from SAIC, a side trip to the Ichetucknee, Cumberland Island,  a shot over to Charleston, and a local day trip to a nearby sunflower field. Of course there is another trip to sultry Savannah planned as well, which will include gallery hopping with an art writer and meeting up with friends... and finally checking out places recently recommended by locals... Lulu's chocolate bar, Pinkies, The Rail Pub, and since I won't be able to pass it up again, a stop at Zunzi's!  

I hope you are getting the most out of your summer season... tangy lemonade, sweet summer peaches & watermelon, dripping ice cream cones, cool dips in the pool and ocean, walks on the beaches, sailing, hot hikes up foothills and stone mountains... escaping into a movie theatre to beat the heat... camping ... art shows... fairs... and of course road trips!  If gas is too expensive, try taking a day trip to small towns closer to you that you've never explored before... and enjoy your time...

I'll be posting the next updates soon! 'Til then... 

My love and best wishes,

Jen

Enchantment Series & Fay Gold Opening

July has been a busybusybusy month!  Since returning from my show on Martha's Vineyard, I've been working on commissioned paintings and getting into the groove of summer-time.  Just last week we began shooting the new HD documentary on my work, which is new and exciting.  I'm pleased to announce that the slide show from the recent Belushi Pisano Gallery exhibition is now available for viewing on my website along with the images of my latest painting series, Enchantment.  Two of the paintings from the new series are currently on exhibit at Fay Gold Gallery in Atlanta, and the others are available at the Belushi Pisano Gallery on Martha's Vineyard.

Thanks so much to everyone who came out to the opening of the summer group show at the Fay Gold Gallery last Wednesday evening! Art I Love will be on exhibit through August 31st, so if you missed the reception, be sure to stop by the gallery soon! Below are a few shots from the event... 

(all gallery photos by Clay Asbury unless otherwise noted)

Installation View of Art I Love

(My "Belladonna" is on the far left) 

photo courtesy of Fay Gold Gallery

         

Viewers checking out the work...

Talking about my painting process & ideas...

A few friends in a "line-up"

Here I am with my wonderful friend, writer Vene Franco

....And....

After the show a group of us celebrated at Eclipse Di Luna

And then of course we had to go wrap up the night with a late night visit to a favorite hang out, The Chocolate Bar! 

And that's when the photos become increasingly blurry... LOL. It was a joyful celebration!!  Thanks again to all who joined in and who have sent their inquiries, best wishes & amazing support!! 

***

Stay tuned for the next blog post where I'll share news & photos from my most recent adventure to Savannah and my meet-up with my friend, the incredible jewelry artist and designer Heather Lindsey Stewart!

Art I Love: Fay Gold Gallery Group Show

"Belladonna"

52"x52"

Mixed Media Painting on Wood Panel

© 2008 Jennifer J L Jones

Exhibition continues through August 31st. Hope you can make it out!

(Please contact Fay Gold Gallery for directions and more information.)

Martha's Vineyard & BPGallery Exhibition

Moshup Beach, Martha's Vineyard, MA

Since returning from Martha's Vineyard, I've been enjoying our southern summer thunderstorms in Atlanta and time back in the studio. I've also been gearing up for the group show coming up next Wednesday (July 16th) at the Fay Gold Gallery and hope those of you in the Atlanta area will be able to join us for the opening reception from 6-8pm.  Invites will be sent out ASAP ... stay tuned for the next post about this upcoming show...

Honeysuckle Heaven! 

Moshup trail, Martha's Vineyard, MA

As usual, my few days on Martha's Vineyard were just too short, but I was able to celebrate my new series of paintings, "Mizu" at the opening reception on July 3rd,  and enjoy time with my friends, fellow artists, and the Belushi Pisano Gallery & family. 

Moshup Beach, MVY, MA

Here are a few photos/highlights from the show. Thanks so much for all of your support!!  I hope to be back on the island again soon... 

Me with my dear friends,  Jessica Pisano (Gallery Director) 

& Kali Wingood (Gallery Coordinator)

Guests & Installation View of "Mizu" and McDermott Studio Glass Vases

Meeting & Showing with Yukimi Matsumoto was a huge treat!

Yukimi explaining  her art process.

Me with the wonderful Judy Belushi Pisano

FYI: the beautiful necklace I'm sporting is by jewelry artist Ronni Simon

Me, Kali Wingood, Andrea Williams, & Mark Craig

For installation shots & more images from this exhibition, please view my website for a slide show soon! 

July 3rd Art Opening at Belushi Pisano Gallery

It's really almost time to fly off to Martha's Vineyard for my show - I can hardly believe it and I'm really getting excited! 

I'll never forget how surprised I was the first time I went to the island. I thought "Martha's Vineyard".... "ooh... the Kennedy's, swanky island people... hope it's not too snooty for me" lol. What a misconception! The Vineyard has a unique charm all its own. Relaxed, fun, absolutely no pretension... and everyone I've ever met there is just there to chill out and enjoy the island and RELAX. Probably why the celebs choose this as their get-away choice.  It's truly a place everyone should visit at some point and time if they haven't already. 

The fact that I am afforded the opportunity to exhibit my work there for the third year and share this with the Belushi Pisano Gallery & family is a huge plus because they are incredible people. How lucky I am! More blessings that I'm ever so thankful for. 

The last few times I flew in on the puddle-jumpers... which are always fun. Reminds me of growing up flying in the small planes with my parents.  I sure miss those days!  This time I'll be taking the ferry to get to the island and my fun friend Charissa will be joining me from Atlanta for the show. What a great adventure this will be!  I can't wait to see my friends on the island (and nearby from Boston!), meet the folks from McDermott Glass Studios, and celebrate Independence Day with them as well! I hope to have a lot of great photos to share when I return as well as good news from a hopefully successful opening to come.

As soon as I return I'll be putting finishing touches on the new paintings I've been working on for my group show coming up at the Fay Gold Gallery scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, July 9th in Atlanta. I'll be sure to get invites e-mailed out to everyone for that showing as soon as possible. For all of my dear friends and patrons who have faithfully been bugging me to have another show in Atlanta so you can actually attend one of my exhibitions... your chance is less than two weeks away! I hope you'll be able to save the date!

Fond thoughts going out to all of you today...
My love and best wishes,
Jennifer








Fay Gold Opening, Kudos, Props, & Shout-Outs

Now that the kitties have been successfully corralled/wrangled-up, and taken to the vet and back home again without incident (meaning no mess to clean up!), I can hang up my rodeo clown suit for the day and get back to blogging and studio art work!  

Adrian & Cameron "workin' it"

First and foremost, I got the "you're gonna live, but check back in a month to be sure" from my surgeon yesterday. (Yay!) So I won't end up like King Tut after all. Phew! 

AND... the update from Fay Gold Gallery is that the summer group show opening reception is scheduled for Wed, July 9th.  That's right around the corner, so mark your calendars!!   I'll have a few brand new paintings ready for this show and I really hope you can all come out for the opening celebration. This will be my first exhibition at Fay Gold Gallery and I'm truly excited about it! Please contact me or the gallery if you have any questions or would like additional information - and don't forget to invite all of your friends! 

Now, as promised in my last post, I wanna give a shout out to some great peeps doing cool things. Kudos are being sent out today to.... 

My dear friend Douglas Fogelson is having an art opening tonight in NYC at the Marlborough Chelsea Gallery from 6-9pm. Congratulations, Doug!! If I could be there tonight, I'd have bells on! For those of you in New York, I hope you'll try to make it out for this summer group show. 

I've also heard rumors that there is an after-party drink thing to follow!!  What fun! 

I would also like to give props to my friend Jennifer Massey.  Jennifer is a professional actress and the 48-Hour film she shot last month was selected for Washington, DC's 2008

"Best of the 48 Hour Film Project" screening. Although they didn't win the festival, their film (entitled " All Roads Lead Away") received a very warm reception from the audience -- it was clearly a crowd favorite.

While you're at it, check out the trailer for "Number One With a Bullet"-- another soon-to-be released short film collaboration between Jennifer and Tohubohu Productions about a desperate author who covers up the death of an arrogant editor in order to get his visionary novel published. His situation escalates when others in the publishing world get closer to discovering the truth.  (I'm personally really looking forward to this one!) 

For those of you who know the singer/song writer/musician, Mosey Walker, you'll be pleased to hear that even though he moved way on out to Portland, Oregon, he's still rockin.  Mosey's in a couple of bands and one of which is currently in the studio being recorded by Everclear's former bass player Craig Montoya. Apparently the climate of the NW suits Mosey and we can't wait to hear all the new melodicas coming out of Mr. Walker soon! p.s. If you haven't heard Mosey's music before, here are a couple of samples for your listening pleasure: http://www.myspace.com/moseywalker      http://www.myspace.com/quietbrothers

One of the great things about getting to know other creatives is finding out just how diverse and talented they all really are! I was afforded the opportunity to read a couple of samples of writings by my friend Vene Franco and am ready to buy her book before it's even out! Her work was recently was published in The Duck & Herring Co. Pocket Field Guide (Warm Weather 2008).  She's also recently been "wooed" over a book idea by a respected publisher and while I'm not at liberty to disclose any more than that, I'll be more than happy to gush about her in further detail in another future blog when I'm privy. Congratulations, Vene!! Oh, and for those of you curious... you can check out her new blog. 

I'd also like to highlight the artwork of two incredible artists yet to be interviewed for a future InnerViews Series Session....  Photographer, Corinne Adams and I finally met in person this past February at our show at Soho Myriad in Atlanta. I instantly fell in love with her and her work and the piece I have acquired for my personal art collection is....  beautiful! 

© Corinne Adams 

The other artist I've been bragging about lately is Savannah-based jewelry maker, Heather Lindsey Stewart. I found out about Heather's work on a fated for fun trip to Savannah.  Her jewelry is incredible-- I hope you'll check it out and I'm giving you fair warning... her pieces are extremely gorgeous and addicting! 

Last, but not least, my special friend out in Santa Fe, Diane McGregor, and her husband, Brad, have once again helped out the Wildlife Center.  They recently helped save and foster baby pigeons and participated in a fundraiser event at Val Kilmer's NM ranch.  Major kudos to you both and also to Mr. Val Kilmer.  In an incredibly self-less act, Val generously donated a portion of his ranch to the Wildlife Center to be used as an annex.  Amazing! Giving can be truly inspiring. 

So thanks to all of you out there doing your special things in life... keeping us all inspired... and making me want to continue contributing as much as I can.  OK, all these props, mentions and kudos makes me want to get right back to work and see what kind of good I can do today. 

Happy summer to all of you reading this ... I hope to hear from you and see you soon!!

Love and best wishes,

Jennifer

How To Lose 6 lbs. in 6 Days for only $1,045.00 !!

I was going to start this post out with a little joke that I thought of when I woke up this morning. I'd like to think I'm funnier than I am, but it's true that I'm usually the only one laughing at my jokes...  so I'll spare you, my dear readers. :-)   The people who "get" my humor tend to be favorites of mine. Even if they pretend to get my humor, they still come out on the top ten on my list of good peeps! So, it is true that humoring and flattering can get us... perhaps not everywhere, but some places. At the tops of some artist's lists like me, anyway. 

I woke up today feeling happier than I have all week. Last night I had a great talk with my Dad while he was on the sailboat with my Mum (technology is awesome- especially when a daughter is seeking parental advice!) and pleased that I finally got to chat with one of my dear friends last night. Even if for a very brief few minutes, it's amazing how much some people can brighten up our days just by hearing their voice. I was talking mostly about my recovering from my oral surgery this past week and how hard it was for me to reach out and ask others to help me out.  I was going to post a link to a video I found on YouTube that showed what I went through, but decided that it was too gross and there isn't anyone reading this blog that would REALLY want to see that, right?  . . . right? .....  Anyway, suffice to say this was a tough thing for me to face (I'm an admitted wimp), but a couple of family members and special friends really stepped up to help me out and kept me mostly brave. Thank you, my sweet-lings. (You know who you are.)  Now that I'm on the mend and definitely feeling better, more like myself...  the bright side of things have come to light from this experience:

• I lost 6 lbs. in six days. (For a mere $1,045.00)  I don't recommend it, but it works! 

• Milk shakes + Pain Meds = Good times (well, until the pain meds make you feel sick)

• I learned that I need to ask for help in a more direct manner or people won't know I need help

• A few days of doctors orders to rest as much as possible really made me RELAX. Wow!

• I had time to reflect on my recent paintings and goals with my quiet, meditation time

• Prayers, emails, phone calls, and Reiki from my family and friends really do work!

• I can only exist for a few days on soup alone

• I'm hilarious to watch on medication (apparently)

• Pets really do help us heal

• Reminder to self: Don't hit on my surgeon right before surgery! 

All in all... providing I get the A-O-K from the surgeon on the 30th, I think my first days of summer are looking pretty sweet.  A month of being sick with a cold, then exhaustion and recovering from surgery has left me wanting to try and make more time to stay in better touch with my family and friends, take time to relax more often, and most certainly look forward to my upcoming show and visit to Martha's Vineyard on July 3rd. 

The Belushi Pisano Gallery just celebrated Friday night with their first group show of the season. The turn out was great and the island is beginning to fill up with visitors. By the time I arrive for my show (I can't wait!!) hopefully there will be a full house for the opening night. There was recently a really nice article written about the gals at the gallery too. Check it out if you can! (This photo below by Ralph Stewart features one of my paintings "Botanical Quilt".)

Belushi Pisano Gallery

(Photo by Ralph Stewart)

My new series of paintings entitled "Mizu" (meaning 'water' in Japanese), has just been completed and will debut at Belushi Pisano Gallery on July 3rd.  The series images will also be posted on my site in its entirety very soon... in the meantime you can view a few of the latest images on the BPGallery site. 

Last night... Artizen Fine Arts in Dallas, Texas hosted an opening reception for a group show including a selection of my recent paintings. The reception was from 6p-9pm.  I hope those of you in the area were able to attend...  If only I could be have been there, I surely would have been celebrating (mostly pain-med-free too)!  

That wraps up this morning's post.  I'm putting a few finishing touches on the other paintings for the "Mizu" series and have plans to relax a bit more this afternoon to make sure I'm right as rain again come July 3rd.

My next post is going to be really exciting because I am planning to send out BIG kudos to some very talented friends of mine that deserve some shout-outs.  Accomplishments such as shows in NYC, book publishing deals, films and television debuts, and volunteer and charity work for causes that make the rest of us look bad! lol 

Stay tuned... and thanks so much for your continued interest and support.

My love and best wishes to all of you!!

~Jennifer

Upcoming Shows, Wordy Updates & News

You know those days where you are so busy and absorbed and distracted by so many happenings and projects that by the time you look up, it's almost midnight? Where did the day go?? I've felt that a lot lately. That was today. Well, at least I got my workout in again... phew! After too many doctor visits surrounding my summer cold and recent exhaustion, I'm determined to maintain my good health & exercise now that I'm feeling well again and have much to accomplish in the studio. (And elsewhere when time permits!) 

Now that I'm reflecting a bit on it, I know exactly how my time was spent today...  Writing a rough draft for an ad (and emailing my brilliant posse for their help and advice) to find and hire a much needed assistant. (Let me know if you know of anyone!! And yes, I am looking for the "perfect" assistant.)  I'm sure I'll post the job description on the blog in the near future. . . (Anyone reading this interested in applying, please contact me through my website to send your resume!) 

Most of my joy from the day came about while I put the finishing touches on a nine-paneled series of paintings called "Mizu" (the Japanese term for 'water'). I can't wait to share these new, beautiful paintings with all of you soon. "Mizu" will debut at my show coming up on July 3rd at the Belushi Pisano Gallery. I also mailed out the invitations to that show today ... 

p.s. For those of you who don't know what a geeky girl I can be... It made me happy putting the postcard stamps on the invites... they are so bright and beautiful! Have you seen them yet? Fruit!! Star fruit, Kiwi, Papaya, Guava, Pomegranate... Seriously. Very cheery stamps! Ha! So, there's something about me most of you would n-e-v-e-r know. I'm a geek when it comes to office supplies, cards, stamps, stickers, labels, etc. No, I'm not a collector, but I am an appreciator. Silly, huh? 

OK, on with this post...

As I was saying... on Thursday, July 3rd, I will be celebrating at Belushi Pisano Gallery opening reception for my exhibition. I will be showing with the McDermott Glass Studio artists, David McDermott and Yukimi Matsumoto. What an honor! The exhibit will run through July 17th. I hope to see you on the Vineyard if you can make it for the 4th of July weekend!! Tis sure to be FUN!

And... coming up next Friday, Belushi Pisano is also having a group show on June 20th with the opening reception from 5p-8p. The show will run through July 2nd. . . 

That same weekend, Artizen Fine Arts in Dallas, Texas will also be featuring my work in a group show beginning on Saturday, June 21st.  I hope if you are in any of these cities listed you will take a moment from the summer heat and cool off in one of these great gallery locations! 

OK. Soooo....  all that being said... lots, lots to keep up on here!  I think I've finally figured out how to add links and allow comments to my blog posts. How 'bout that? I'm a little slow to take the time to post efficiently, but I hope you'll share some comments if you like what's going on with these posts and my work! 

I know many of you were enjoying the InnerViews series sessions and I promise they will begin again... I can't give a date yet, but to help provide a better forum for the interviews, I've created a blog that will be connected to this one, but entirely dedicated to the interviews and will keep you posted on the development.... Thanks for being so patient! 

And thanks a million for your ongoing, incredible support. It touches my heart and never ceases to amaze me that you are all so genuine! I send my gratitude out to you all... and hope this post finds you and yours well.

~Jennifer