Heat Wave

The frequency of my postings and the time I spend making art really decreases in the summer months.  The outdoor activities (both work and play) pull me away from my studio and into the fresh air and sunshine. We've had record highs here in Central PA, with temps climbing over 100 degrees.  Amazing!

Another reason I haven't been here is because of a new, unexpected addition to the family, Wilhemina (Mina for short)...she's certainly made our lives more interesting!  I'd forgotten how much time and energy kittens need (just trying to keep them out of trouble and safe!). She's a sweetheart and a little terror all rolled up into one tiny, furry bundle.

Mina at the end of a hard day of play!

Mina captured during a rare, still moment

I recently finished up an Art Deck project for the Travelers' H'Art, Capolan Group (Red Dog Scot, Covino, CA).  I've belonged to this art exchange group for many years, although I haven't been as active with the group as I once was. So many wonderful artists are members and it's fantastic participating in the collaborative projects that hostess, Red Dog, puts together.

The project was to put together a 3 1/2" x 5" tarot card image with the influence of Nick Bantock's art.  I was assigned The Star card.  My piece is a digital collage which used more than 20 individual images combined and transformed into one card.  The bird and flowing water are traditional symbols for this card, along with of course, a star!  I had a lot of fun with this work and particularly enjoyed working using vivid colors.

"The Star" Digital Collage (Art Deck Project)

A few weeks ago, I also finished up my entry for the Hearts and Hands for Sendai quilt block.  My block will be combined with the blocks of other crazy quilters into display quilts which will be hung in Japan and money will be raised to support victims of the recent natural disasters.

Finished Block for "Hearts & Hands for Sendai" Benefit Project