A Great Day in Peninsula

      We got off to a great start at the Peninsula Foundation's first (possibly annual)" Historic Art in Historic Places". We had a wonderful group of students taking the classes who were very enthusiastic and talented!
They really made teaching fun.

There is a lot of preparation that goes into getting ready to teach a textile workshop. Starting with the initial design of the project and getting it stitched to dissecting it for students. I then spend several days getting wool dyed, and more time copying patterns, cutting wool, and all of the other necessary ingredients for the project.
Then my assistant puts together the all of the individual kits. All of this I enjoy.

Workshop day is always the most fun though. It's great to meet new people and visit with friends.

Thank you to everyone who participated and especially to my fellow instructors, Kathy Wright, Lanna Omlor, and Lori Ann Corelis! Also, a huge thank you to Karen at the GAR Hall. It was a beautiful venue and perfect for the workshops!

I'll keep everyone posted on my next event and the future of "Historic Art in Historic Places"

Symbols of Patriotism

As I sit here thinking about the 4th of July and all of the meaning it holds for us here in America, I pause to give thought to the symbols that we so often see that invoke patriotism. We folk artists very often find our inspiration for our work in these and the things we call Americana.

I am often drawn especially to flags and eagles, and can always find a new way to work these motifs into a piece. Commemorative pieces are also another favorite of mine, and I have often done paintings that not only reflect our independence, but also the spirit of American and its building.

This year we will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the penning of the "Star Spangled Banner". Our national anthem is a true symbol of this nation and those who felt it was worth the sacrifice.

As we join together to observe another 4th of July, my wish is that we would not take it for granted. I would coin the phrase, "Freedom is not Free".

I wish all of you a happy 4th!!