Monday, February 28, 2011

Developing Style and Continuing Design Efforts

Response from a show in southern Indiana has been received, and acceptance into the show was declined. This being the first show applied for, it is being considered an opportunity. Booth presentation, as well as a style that is my own, needs to be developed. One that says, “Oh yeah, this is definitely a piece by Shanon.” So the rejection brings a wonderful learning opportunity. This next year will be an ideal time to develop style and the presence I am intended to present in the art community.

On a different note, tasks continue to be completed on graphic design projects for The Center here in Columbia City. I encourage you to take a look at their website and discover what it is they do and how they create a unique atmosphere and array of experiences for the youth in the Whitley County area. Through collaboration, the executive director, his team, and I have created a new logo, postcards, and a flyer for their Benefit Cook-Off, to be held in April. Additionally, candid photographs of youth in action, will be taken and viewable during various events.

I hope everyone is doing well, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions or special requests, as it relates to design or artistic needs.

Take care,
Shanon
Tuesday, February 22, 2011

A New Project

A new design project has recently been acquired. Details of the organization will soon come. I am privileged to be doing logo design work as well as a handful of layout opportunities, for a local organization whose mission in the community is both wonderful and needed.

Three more compositions have been sketched out and canvas preparations have been made, now it is time to spend several hours in the studio. Recently a painting suggestion was made, after consideration this piece will also be completed. The work will fit well with the Neo-Baroque portfolio.

Several times steady progress has been mentioned, and the same still holds true. There seems to be a new opportunity every day. Those opportunities which meet the needs of others in particular (whether direct or indirect), are certainly the most appealing at this point. It is an amazing thought to know that gifts may be positively used to have an impact on the lives of others, be it in your hometown or across the world.

Take care,

Shanon
Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Small Delays

With the weather and ill children at home, progress on projects continues to be slowed a bit. However, that does not mean progress is not being made. Applications for a show in Indianapolis, as well as Winona Lake, have been submitted; acceptance notifications are sent out near the end of the month. Also, there may be two opportunities to showcase commissioned type work in March. As previously mentioned, any acceptance of works through these avenues will be posted on the 'Events' page.

I spent time this evening cleaning the pallet and brushes, as well as taking inventory of canvas supplies. I would like to see all thirteen canvases painted and ready for display by the first of May. As I was enjoying the time just setting things in order, I was reminded of something someone once told me, "if you want to be a serious artist, never have children." At the time I was pregnant with my first child and I was a bit shocked. I realized later what this artist was saying. Being an artist consumes quite a bit of time, time that cannot be sacrificed when one has a family. I love my family and I am grateful for them everyday. Creating art will never be the priority over them. Yes, I will continue to pursue what I believe to be a gift from God, which may also open doors to communicate His heart to others, but they will always come first.

Writing this I am also reminded of something a friend of mine from the corporate world once said, "if you do something, even a little bit every day, eventually you will have a whole project done." This encourages me to do something every day with regard to painting, creating compositions, or capturing a vision. Even one hour in the studio will eventually lead to an entire portfolio and a sense of knowing I took yet another step in the direction of something larger than myself.

Take care,
Shanon