S E L / F / L E S H

Studio | 02.11.11

2011-02-12T19:37:00.003-05:00

Studio | 02.11.11, originally uploaded by selflesh.

A batch of Kickstarter rewards. Almost finished! I'm currently in the midst of embroidering these and I hope to have them all out by this week. Phew! Thanks again to those who contributed.

It's been quite busy over here with all sorts of projects. Fine art experiments, brand new subscription pieces, and tonight I posted a few embroidered originals to the shop.

Giveaway soon.
xo

Giveaway | 11.26.10

2010-12-08T13:31:00.004-05:00

Giveaway | 11.26.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Greetings!

Well, I just returned home after a lovely 10 days in Düsseldorf, Germany. The time went by very quickly with a large installation to create, dinner parties, visits to K20 and K21, and daily walks through the city. What an incredible time I had! To celebrate I am giving away 3 items to 3 lucky winners but hurry because tonight (12.08.10 - by midnight EST) is the deadline.

Please comment over here to enter the Giveaway!

xo
>s

Commission | 09.08.10

2010-09-23T19:08:00.006-04:00

Commission | 09.08.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Hey kids!

Over the past month or so I have taken on as many small scale commissions as I can in hopes to save up enough to help fund my upcoming shows. Above is a recent custom piece, and you can see other examples here and of course, over at my shop.

Right now I am taking advantage of the wee lull in the commission department, and I am in the midst of creating a large body of work. At some point I have to carve out a little time to create some new designs for the selflesh shop along with creating prints, etc. for other venues like Craftland, and Little Paper Planes. Wait? Do I have time to do all this? Egads! Wish me luck.

With about a week to go, I am still continuing to raise funds for these shows via my Kickstarter Project. Oh my goodness! Did you see? I exceeded my goal and I still have 9 days to go. Unbelievable! Really! I love Kickstarter and I love you!

THANK YOU - to so many of you who have contributed to the project. Those who have pledged know that you are privy to behind the scenes images and videos! So, stay tuned for an update later this evening or tomorrow. If you also want to be "privy" to my project updates, head over and pledge for rewards in return. Otherwise, wait patiently... and I will be sure to post a few progress images over at my fine art blog later this year.
;)

Thanks for reading and looking.
Hugs.
xo
>s
P.S. OH and I'm having another giveaway! Yay!

Kickstarting!

2010-09-04T19:38:00.003-04:00

Kickstarter | 09.03.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

I know... crickets over here but... right now, I need your help!

I have put together a Kickstarter Project because I am raising funds for the creation of new work and to assist with my travel expenses for my upcoming solo exhibition in Germany. This is a mighty pricey venture so any additional funds raised over the $1,500 goal will go towards my material, framing and shipping costs. Please consider supporting this project by pledging and / or spreading the word to your friends.

The best part is that becoming a backer of this project is a snap AND you get something in return. I have oodles of pledges (with rewards) to choose from. Go take a look.

Head over to my Kickstarter page and consider supporting this project in exchange for some art!

Thanks so much.
xxxooo
>s

selflesh | 08.06.10

2010-08-06T16:03:00.002-04:00

selflesh | 08.06.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Hey there lovelies.

I am in the midst of creating a series of new originals for the shop. This one of a kind, embroidered original map collage is now available! Go snag it before it's gone.

Hugs.
>s

Studio | 06.07.10

2010-07-17T21:56:00.003-04:00

Studio | 06.07.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

A photo of my studio at the VSC. I spread out!!!

So many shows coming up this year... So, these posts may be pokey-er than usual.

Subscriptions | 07.15.10

2010-07-17T21:52:00.002-04:00

Subscriptions | 07.15.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

I have returned from a very productive month at the Vermont Studio Center. Pardon my lack of editing, but you can see photos of my time there, here.

Above is an abstract piece headed to a subscriber overseas!

Quarterly Map Collage Subscriptions
---
Over the course of one year, I will ship a small original right to your door. This one is for the abstract subscription. I ship new pieces every January, April, July, and October. They can start at any time.

Giveaway | 06.02.10

2010-06-02T12:13:00.003-04:00

Giveaway | 06.02.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Hooray! Another giveaway!

Lack of posts due to a few projects in the works...

Justin and I have been busy working on our installations for this year's CMCA Biennial. You can take a look at what we've been up to here and here. In addition, I am preparing to head to Vermont (to an artist residency) for the month of June. So, this will be the last giveaway until July. There's only a short window of opportunity to enter to win! You have until tomorrow (June 3rd by midnight) and you can enter here.

Good luck.
xo
P.S. If you want to keep up with my progress at the residency, I will be posting process images here.

Giveaway | 04.22.10

2010-04-22T15:37:00.002-04:00

Giveaway | 04.22.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Hey there.

I'm having another giveaway! This is a small print titled Passage, I'm giving it away over here. You have until this Friday (tomorrow) by midnight to enter.

This same one is now available in my shop. I also offer a larger 11" x 17" limited edition version, which is available through Little Paper Planes (and will be in stock again shortly).

xo
>s

Mortal Geography | 04.20.10

2010-04-21T15:17:00.002-04:00

Mortal Geography | 04.20.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Last year I was contacted by poet Alexandra Teague. She asked if I would be willing to create the art for the cover of her soon to be published book of poetry titled Mortal Geography. Many of the locations in the piece refer to poems in the book, places she's traveled to, etc. She said she felt that my work was a sort of "visual equivalent of her poetry", and that "Overall, the book explores the ways in which we navigate loss, love, history, language, the body, place, displacement, and other geographies of being human."

How perfect is that! Of course I said yes!

It arrived a few days ago, and it's so lovely. I am looking forward to reading it and I have a feeling it will likely be very inspiring for the directions in my own work. If you are interested in purchasing a copy of Mortal Geography, you can!

Subscription | 04.15.10

2010-04-21T15:00:00.002-04:00

Subscription | 04.15.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

I am still offering Quarterly Map Collage Subscriptions in my shop. Over the course of one year, I will ship a small original right to your door. This one is an abstract piece for the mixed subscription. I ship new pieces every January, April, July, and October. They can start at any time.

Blog | 03.24.10

2010-04-16T18:39:00.003-04:00

Blog | 03.24.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

So I did go ahead and set up a blog specifically for my fine art. There isn't a whole lot there yet but I plan to post about my progress, news, shows, etc. Regarding "selflesh" news: Be sure to head over to my facebook fan page today and leave a comment below my giveaway item. You have until midnight (EST) tonight (4/16/10). It's a good one!
;)

xo
>s

Embroidered Print | 01.26.10

2010-03-21T14:32:00.003-04:00

Embroidered Print | 01.26.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

It's been a busy few months, so I haven't had much time to create new designs for my shop, but I do have these embroidered Star Heart prints available, which are also available as custom originals.

I plan to continue making work for my selflesh shop (and still offer commissions, etc.) but my focus has shifted a bit these days, so I've decided to start a new blog specifically for my fine art updates.

xo
>s

It Takes Two | 01.14.10

2010-01-14T22:52:00.002-05:00

It Takes Two | 01.14.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Phew!

We have finished up the 8 pieces that we will be shipping off to artstream for "It Takes Two". Yay!!! You can see the entire series here.

Shall I say it again? This process was so much fun! So, we had to open up an Etsy shop for our collaborative work. We hope to put out a series each month. Wish us luck.

It's called intersect. Take a look.
Can you believe that shop name wasn't already taken?

Anyhoo, currently we have 10" x 10" prints available, and we hope to have some originals available soon as well. Stay tuned.

xo
>s (+J)

Everyday | 01.12.10

2010-01-12T20:17:00.003-05:00

Everyday | 01.12.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Over the past few days we've accumulated a whole lot of bits in preparation for "It Takes Two". My eyes even hurt a little bit, but it's all so very exciting. Why?

Well, we love the pieces we're making, so we've decided to open a shop to sell our collaborative work. Yay!

Stay tuned for more details.
Soon.
xo
>s

P.S. I'm having another Giveaway!

Be/come a Facebook fan of selflesh, and comment here for a chance to win!

Peek | 01.10.10

2010-01-10T12:21:00.002-05:00

Peek | 01.10.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

We were recently invited by the lovely Susan Schwake of artstream, to be a part of the show - It Takes Two. The theme is about couples who make art (together or not). We decided to collaborate.

Here are a few sneak peeks of what we've been working on. This is technically our very first art making collaboration, and so far we are pleasantly surprised by the results!
Enjoy.
xo
>s

Review | 2009

2010-01-09T19:12:00.002-05:00

, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Here are a few images from my studio over the last year. Below, I've compiled a long list of random things we've done in 2009. Now, I'm looking forward to what 2010 has to offer!

Review | 2009

2010-01-09T19:10:00.010-05:00

, originally uploaded by selflesh.

I decided to compile a long list of random things that have happened over the past year. I'm sure it's more than you ever wanted to know. However, it's been fun for me to follow the history of the past year via my flickr photos. Below are many of the highlights.

Enjoy.

January
---
Justin finishes the Globe.
I tidy up, and photograph his studio.
I create the Migration Series for ETA.
Justin hangs these on his studio wall for inspiration.
I change my studio around.
I draw this.
I photograph corners of my studio.
I make this for an embroidery show, but decide to trash it, and make these instead.
I photograph ice, and a snowflake.
I create an identity for E.H.M.
I post this even though it was likely long overdue.

February
---
I make a series of original Heartstrings for L.P.P.
I begin preparation for a new series for a show at Luke & Eloy Gallery.
I finish 3 new pieces for the show (and need to return to the series soon).
I create some map collage commissions.
I shovel snow.

March
---
Baby T has dental surgery, and rests.
I take a blurry photo of my studio.
I create the Seeker Series for L.P.P.
I make this, and still love it.
We sit on the deck and soak up some rays.
I take photos of our home.
I make this along with some other pieces for a show titled "You've Got Light in Your Eyes".

April
---
Justin photographs T with a heart shaped nose.
Justin takes a picture of this for me.
We shovel a lot of snow, because we are eager to build a greenhouse.
I take a photo of my messy studio table.
We head out because the ground is finally thaw, and it's sunny outside.
We begin building the greenhouse.
We meet some goats.
I make some more commissions.

May
---
An Ovenbird dies from hitting our greenhouse window.
Teddy jumps over the small stream.
The boys hang out on the deck.
I find some garnet on a walk.
The greenhouse is almost finished.
I hang out in the dirt, and pluck raspberry leaves.
We germinate too many seeds.
I sketch this.

June
---
I make this commission.
I watch a bumble bee.
I make a series for the Black Frame Show.
Justin makes bread (this happens all the time).
We finish the greenhouse.

July
---
The neighbors cut down too many trees.
I create a mini series of tiny embroidered map collages, and build a house with them.
I take a detail photo of a daisy.
I photograph my studio for Etsy's Open Studio Tour.
I make some more commissions.
I create a series of strange collages for ETA.
I make a series of originals for Craftland.
We go for a lovely bike ride.
I take a cute photo of our Honey Bear.

August
---
I turn 38, and take a lot of photos. I especially love this one.
I take a swim for my birthday, and Justin feeds a horse.
We take jumping photos.
We sell the Scout.
Perfect Paper arrives.
I begin cutting dots and globe gores.
I make a new series titled Uncharted.

September
---
I install Germinate and Matrix at the ICA.
I create a commissioned Germinate and make videos of the process.

October
---
I build the first fire of the season.
I am the visiting artist for the MECA Print Project.
Justin turns 30!
I ship out some subscription pieces.
I make a few embroidered pieces for Jenny Hart's show titled Over and Under.
Beautiful ice forms on the greenhouse windows.
My aunt and dad come to Maine for a visit and see my show.
A baby raccoon named Tattoo eats some bread.
Baby T helps his daddy.
I find this amazing quote.
We build a studio wall, and I use it.
I take a self portrait, and Jenny Lee Fowler turns it into art.

November
---
I photograph another spectacular sunset.
I have another giveaway on facebook.
Justin has an interview with The Working Proof.
I photograph my long shadow, and film the sun.
Theodore helps his daddy again.
I shoot a birds eye view of my studio after getting a new cutting mat.
I install a bunch of sketches on the wall.
I make the the Illuminate Series in preparation for holiday sales, etc.
I create a new series titled Transplant, and feel excited about the potential.
We set the timer and take a Thanksgiving family photo.
I take a few more self portraits.

December
---
I make Passage and Into the Ether.
We meet a Yeti.

Everyday | 01.06.10

2010-01-06T21:35:00.006-05:00

Everyday | 01.06.10, originally uploaded by selflesh.

Ahh... That's better, isn't it?
I've wanted to enlarge my images on this here blog for ages now. Finally, with the help of a few good folks (especially J.B.)... Voila!

This just so happens to be a shot towards the wall that now divides our studios. Mine is to the left, and his is to the right. Pretty soon those walls will be bare as my three Uncharted Series pieces will be heading to their new home later this month, and Justin's small paintings on the wall there, will be off to a show at Young Blood Gallery in Atlanta, GA.

---

So, it's a new year.
Very exciting, right?

With that, I'm looking forward to trying my best to keep a record of my daily life and my progress in the studio. This particular image is quite fitting at the moment, as I have only spent a few days in the studio over the course of about a month. I'm sure it was a much needed time away, but I am eager to return. It it still winter after all, and it just so happens to be the best time to hole up and get lots of work done!

Hugs.
>s

Giveaway | 01.01.10

2010-01-01T16:05:00.002-05:00

Giveaway | 01.01.10
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Happy New Year everyone!
---
I have this 4 Pack of Tiny Prints available in my shop now, but if you want to have a chance to win them, you can do so here.
xo

Illuminate Series | 11.16.09

2009-12-08T14:38:00.002-05:00

Illuminate Series | 11.16.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Here are the remaining 4 pieces from the series Illuminate.

You can now find prints of these in my shop. From top left, clockwise - Touch, Dream, Journey, and Vision.

xo

Illuminate Series | 11.17.09

2009-12-08T14:27:00.003-05:00

Illuminate Series | 11.17.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I recently created a new map collage series titled Illuminate. You can find prints of these in my shop. From top left, clockwise - Protect, Exchange, Love, and Lift.

xo

Giveaway | 11.03.09

2009-11-04T19:53:00.002-05:00

Giveaway | 11.03.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

So I am having another selflesh giveaway over here. Yay! In order to qualify, simply become a facebook fan of selflesh and then leave a comment under the giveaway image.

Of course if you don't win this piece it's also available in my shop, along with many others.
;)

So, for those of you anxiously waiting to see more images from the recent show I was in... I have finally gathered my photos of the Aggregate show together and have posted most of them to my website. I also have them posted here.

I'm chewing on posting fine art related posts to a new blog, which is likely a crazy thing for me to do, but at the same time it might be nice... We'll see...

I think I'll post some of the images from the show here soon, but I may also begin posting on another - fine art focussed - blog. I'll keep you posted.

I hope everyone is staying warm.
The winter days are certainly in the air here.

xo
>s

P.S. Justin has a print (and a lovely interview) available through The Working Proof.

Perfect Paper Cover | 08.06.09

2009-10-14T13:01:00.003-04:00

Perfect Paper Cover | 08.06.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Some of my work was recently published in the book Perfect Paper by Page One. It's an honor to be included among so many talented artists!
---
Unfortunately, the book is not available for purchase online. However, you could contact them directly, or let me know, and I can see what I can do.

My work will also be included in another book that should come out early 2010 called Data Flow 2 (working title) by Gestalten. Here is the first Data Flow for your perusal. I must say, I am more than excited that they invited me to be part of the second book!

Install Portrait | 09.03.09

2009-10-14T12:53:00.003-04:00

Install Portrait | 09.03.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Here I am taking a bit of a break while installing the Germinate piece (Photo by LLL). It's quite sad that it will all be coming down early next week, so if you haven't seen the show, it will be up through Sunday, October 18th. I will be posting more professional images (by Peter Shellenberger) of the show very soon.

Here is a bit of press for your perusal.

The Phoenix
Topographic Musings
by Annie Larmon

Portland Press Herald
Collective Consciousness
by Jamie Thompson

Germinate Detail | 08.30.09

2009-09-03T11:42:00.002-04:00

Germinate Detail | 08.30.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

It's been so long...

The past few months have been dedicated to making work for an upcoming show titled Aggregate. This summer I created a series of eight map collages titled Uncharted. In addition (with a little help from J, P, and K) I hand cut over 300 map gore shapes, and over 5000 map dots. It's been non-stop in the studio the past few months! Last week I spent seven days (with the help of L, L, and LLL) installing two large scale installations for the show. It's been an amazing experience, and I am truly honored to have the opportunity to show and share my work with the public.

If you so happen to be in the area, please stop by. I will be in attendance at the opening reception tomorrow Friday, September 4th from 5 - 8 PM at the ICA (at MECA) in Portland, Maine. If you can't make it to the opening, it will be up through October, 18th.

More images coming soon.
xo
>s

Commission | 07.16.09

2009-07-17T21:37:00.002-04:00

Commission | 07.16.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Another custom piece.

This particular one is a representation of a married couple who are expecting their first child. The two hands each represent where the couple is from, while the bird represents the baby to be.

Commission | 07.16.09

2009-07-17T21:35:00.002-04:00

Commission | 07.16.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I am in the midst of finishing some new commissions. This one was created as an anniversary gift to a husband.

Handmade | 07.13.09

2009-07-17T21:28:00.002-04:00

Handmade | 07.13.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I created my first stop motion animation for Etsy. I am submitting it to the "A Handmade Moment" video competition. If you want to, you can vote here.

Shh... | 07.11.09

2009-07-14T11:42:00.003-04:00

Shh... | 07.11.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

If you are interested in purchasing "A Small Surprise" by July 31st, I will enter your name into a drawing for a chance to win 1 of 3 lovely prizes!!!

:)

xo
>s

Video | 07.07.09

2009-07-09T21:27:00.001-04:00

Video | 07.07.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

+

Then I made a video with them.
Enjoy.
:)

xo
>s

Mini Series | 07.07.09

2009-07-09T21:24:00.002-04:00

Mini Series | 07.07.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

In the shop right now.
---
I just finished creating a series of original mini embroidered map collages for the shop. They're kind of adorable (in my humble opinion).
;)
---
Art Cards - Hand (Heal), Head (See), Heart (Love), and Bird (Seek)
2 1/2" x 3 1/2"

Stack | 06.21.09

2009-06-21T17:59:00.006-04:00

Stack | 06.21.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Sometimes it's nice to just play. So, I made these tiny embroidered originals. And today, I have another giveaway because I love you!

xo
>s

Burst | 06.13.09

2009-06-13T22:38:00.002-04:00

Burst | 06.13.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Hello.

I have another giveaway at my Facebook fan page in case you are interested!
---
In addition to creating another Germinate piece for someone, I have also been making some small pieces for the Black Frame Art Sale coming up. I consider these pieces explorations for larger works.

More soon.
xo
>s

Giveaway | 06.07.09

2009-06-07T16:25:00.002-04:00

Giveaway | 06.07.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Have a chance to win this little lovely original.
---
Rules.
1. Become a Facebook fan of selflesh
2. Leave a comment there before Monday the 8th, midnight E.S.T.
+
I will enter your name into the random list generator.
Whoever gets number 1 on the list, wins!!!
---
The winner will be notified on the following Tuesday.
Any questions, just ask.
xo
>s

Facebook | 06.07.09

2009-06-07T12:45:00.004-04:00

Facebook | 06.07.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I finally created a Facebook fan page for my selflesh shop. If you are interested in becoming a fan, my page is here. I'll be posting new pieces along with updates on sales and giveaways!

Studio Table | 05.25.09

2009-05-31T18:15:00.002-04:00

Studio Table | 05.25.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

After a series of many days spent amid the dirt, I have finally returned to the studio. It feels really good to be back to work again after a long hiatus, though the sunny days still tempt me. I'll be sure to be better about splitting my time up more and do both! Fortunately our more major outdoor projects are beginning to wrap up, though there will still be plenty to do out there, tending, etc. It should be lovely. We even decided to start a little blog about the "farming" aspect of our lives. It's still in the earliest of progress and we have a lot to catch up on.

Currently I am in the midst of creating some small pieces for the annual Black Frame Show as well as work towards making some larger pieces for the MECA Alumni Show. At the moment my table is covered with lots and lots of tiny map bits. I'll likely need to tidy up before I get back to work tonight. I find after just a few hours of working i am surrounded, and I end up working within the smallest amount of space on my table. I should time lapse the evolution someday.

---

My "chosen at random" excerpt for today is from The Book by Alan Watts
Pg. 97

"We can never, never describe all features of the total situation, not only because every situation is infinitely complex, but also because the total situation is the universe. Fortunately, we do not have to descibe any situation exhaustively, because some of its features appear to be much more important than others for understanding the behaviour of the various organisms within it. We never get more than a sketch of the situation, yet this is enough to show that actions (or processes) must be understood, or explained, in terms of situations just as words must be understood in the context of sentences, paragraphs, chapters, books, libraries, and... life itself.

To sum up: just as no thing or organism exists on its own, it does not act on its own. Furthermore, every organism is a process: thus the organism is not other than its actions. To put it clumsily: it is what it does. More precisely, the organism, including its behavior, is a process which is to be understood only in relation to the larger and longer process of its environment. For what we mean by "understanding" or "comprehension" is seeing how parts fit into a whole, and the realizing that they don't compose the whole, as one assembles a jigsaw puzzle, but that the whole is a pattern of complex wiggliness, which has no separate parts. Parts are fictions of language, of the calculus of looking at the world through a net which seems to chop it up into bits. Parts exist only for purposes of figuring and describing, and as we figure the world out we become confused if we do not remember this all the time."

Light | 04.18.09

2009-04-18T18:10:00.009-04:00

Light | 04.18.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I created to embroidered map collages titled - Nexus and Plexus for an upcoming show at Needles and Pens Gallery in San Francisco.

---

You've Got Light in Your Eyes.

A group show curated by
Meighan O'Toole

Featuring the works of:
1911, Kate Bingaman Burt, Jill Bliss, Will Bryant, Kime Buzzelli, John Casey, Lisa Congdon, Liam Devowski, Bill Dunlap, Kenn Goodall, Maxwell Loren Holyoke-Hirsch, Know Hope, Olivia Jeffries, Aidan Koch, Ashley Lande Brown, Jeremiah Maddock, Leslie Martinez, Terri Olsen Von Schaub, Mike Perry, Shannon Rankin, and Dan Szymanowski

Reception - Saturday, May 2nd, 2009
3253 16th Street
San Francisco, CA

---

My quote today is from the The Buckminster Fuller Institute regarding the Fuller Projection or Dymaxion Map.

"The Dymaxion Map is the only flat map of the entire surface of the earth that reveals our planet as it really is, an island in one ocean without any visible distortion of the relative shapes and sizes of the land areas, and without splitting any continents. Traditional world maps reinforce the elements that separate humanity and fail to highlight the patterns and relationships emerging from the ever evolving and accelerating process of globalization."

Studio | 04.10.09

2009-04-10T12:12:00.012-04:00

Studio | 04.10.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

One of my all time favorite things to do is head to the library, randomly pull books from the shelves and sit right down, and immerse myself in them. Of course the books I choose are of interest to me, but I don't specifically go searching for them. This way there can be an opportunity for a new and unexpected dialog between the varied subjects. It can sometimes really open things up in terms of ideas or potential directions. This time I decided to skip the library and pull out my books, binders, and other bits that I've collected from my library research over the years. I re-read them, and pour over the pages of found images, and sketches I've made. This is where I've been the past few days, and now I'm anxious to make some work! Of course, now it's a matter of honing my focus. It's easy to become overwhelmed with all the potential directions, but I have a feeling there are some exciting directions on the horizon!
---

+ In other news. For those of you reading this, I am having a sale in my shop today through this Sun. the 12th by midnight e.s.t. I am offering 50% off any one item in my shop. If there is something you can't live without, send me and email (or etsy convo), and I will reserve it (at the discounted price) especially for you. If you have any questions, just ask.

xo
>s

Triangles | 4.08.09

2009-04-08T12:12:00.005-04:00

Triangles | 4.08.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Okay. It's been ages again since my last post. Here is the latest scoop!
---

Since the fiber / wax series, I've been busy working on some new commissions, some small affordable art works, a new series for Little Paper Planes (which should be available in the next week or so), a series of embroidered gocco prints for The Incredible Print Show at Artstream, a few pieces for a show at Ken Jones Jr. Fine Art, and a couple of colorful pieces (above and below) that may be for another upcoming show titled You've Got Light in your Eyes curated by Meighan O'Toole at Needles and Pens.

Phew!

In addition to all that... I just found out that I have been accepted as one of five artists into the MECA Alumni Biennial at the Institute of Contemporary Art at Maine College of Art. I'm thrilled!

The other artists in the show are - Cole Caswell, Aaron T. Stephan, Vasilios Peter Gletsos, and Eric Hongisto.

---

The quote for today is from one of my all time favorite books.

Man and His Symbols by Carl G. Jung

"Whether in classical or in primitive foundations, the mandala ground plan was never dictated by considerations of aesthetics or economics. It was a transformation of the city into an ordered cosmos, a sacred place bound by its center to the other world. And this transformation accorded with the vital feelings and needs of religious man. Every building, sacred or secular, that has a mandala ground plan is the projection of an archetypal image from within the human unconscious onto the outer world. The city, the fortress, and the temple become symbols of psychic wholeness, and in this way exercise as specific influence on the human being who enters or lives in the place." (pg. 272)

Nexus | 03.29.09

2009-04-08T12:06:00.001-04:00

Nexus | 03.29.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

How does a few days turn into almost a month?

Colony | 02.11.09

2009-02-18T13:22:00.003-05:00

Colony | 02.11.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I was recently invited to participate in a show titled "Double Vision - Work by Multi-Disciplinary Artists" - at Luke & Eloy Gallery in Pittsburgh, PA. It's been a lovely opportunity for me since I have been yearning to return to the fiber/wax series I explored so long ago! This is one of a small series of fiber pieces I created for the show. You can see more images of the work here, and a process image here. The series is titled Heirloom Series, and I hope to create more in the coming months. In addition to the fiber/wax pieces, I also created a large map piece for the show titled "Vents". I finally feel that my varied directions are beginning to overlap and connect.

+
That's such a good thing!

---

If you are interested in owning a small affordable original...

Some of the pieces that I created for the "Enormous Tiny Art Show" at Nahcotta are available online here, and the embroidered pieces that I created for the show "Forget Me-Not" at Gallery Hanahou, are available here.

---

I have been plugging away at working on a fine art website. It is still a work in progress, but I am thrilled to be able see the work in a simple, and cohesive way. Tell me what you think. I would love to know!
;)

In addition to finishing up a few commission pieces, I am preparing to make work for a few other shows coming up.

The Incredible Print Show
Artstream
May 01 - June 15, 2009
Rochester, NH

You've Got Light in Your Eyes
Curated by Meighan O'Toole
Editor of My Love For You is a Stampede of Horses
Needles & Pens
May 02, 2009
3253 16th Street
San Francisco, CA

+

Over and Under
A show of Stitches curated by Jenny Hart
Owner of Sublime Stitching
Yard Dog Gallery
November, 2009
Austin, TX

---
I feel as though I may be forgetting something...

I'll plan to post again in the next few days, and I'll be sure to include a quote. I'm missing them, aren't you?

xo
>s

Nodes | 01.12.09

2009-01-12T22:58:00.002-05:00

Nodes | 01.12.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I have been tediously cutting maps per usual.
;)
---
With this one, I selected city and town centers and cut each road leading to/from them. I carefully connected each road so that it looked as though it was almost cut from the same map. When I turned it over, I found this! Of course it wasn't my original intention, but I was delighted to discover this happy accident.
---
These past few months have been dedicated to exploring new directions with my work. I spent a few weeks simply documenting my process, and now I feel as though I am beginning to narrow my focus more, and more. This is a set of images/sketches/directions that I am thinking about at the moment.

Thanks for looking.
I hope you all are having a lovely year so far!
xo
>s

Drift | 01.10.09

2009-01-12T22:46:00.003-05:00

Drift | 01.10.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

A New Drawing | 01.09.09

2009-01-12T22:45:00.001-05:00

A New Drawing | 01.09.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Migration Series | No. 3

2009-01-12T22:40:00.004-05:00

Migration Series | No. 3
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I was invited by the lovely Jennifer Judd-Mcgee (Swallowfield) to participate in this years Enormous Tiny Art Show, at the Nahcotta Gallery in Portsmouth, NH (02.05.09 - 03.02.09). I have created a series of eight 6" x 6" bird pieces for the show. This one is number 3 from the Migration Series.

Subscribe | 1.01.09

2009-01-01T20:27:00.005-05:00

Subscribe | 1.01.09
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Happy New Year everyone!
This past year has really flown by, hasn't it? I'm certain this one ahead of us will be just as eventful. I'm truly looking forward to what is in store for the future! Exciting times, indeed.
xo
>s

---
Thought I would let you know that I now have Map Collage Subscriptions available in my shop again. I am offering a Print Subscription - 6 Archival Prints, and an Original Map Collage Subscription - 4 Originals. The first 3 people who purchase a subscription will receive an extra gift!

Since I have been working in a variety of directions with these map pieces, I decided to free myself up a bit, and allow each piece to be based on what it is that I am working on at the time. Some of the imagery may be abstract, reference, anatomy, birds, and/or landscapes. All of the imagery will include the use of vintage maps, and may include elements of embroidery, painting, etc.

No quote for today, as I must get back to work!
However, you can keep an eye on my progress here and here. (Pardon the yellow photos - as I tend to work late into the night... Someday I'll have some lovely, crisp images for you.)

As of yet, nothing is really pinned down. I'm still working some things out, but I will say... There are some exciting discoveries being made, and I am looking forward to where it all leads.

Till next time.
xo

Sketch | 12.12.08

2008-12-16T21:35:00.004-05:00

Sketch | 12.12.08
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I have finally settled into working in the studio for the long winter. Of course, I have been working all along. However, these next few months will be dedicated to creating my fine art. I hope to create a small body of work by the end of January, and a larger body by the spring.

I have been documenting all of my tiny sketches. You can see more here. This new direction features work with layered cut maps with more depth than every before, and I am really excited about the outcome with these!

---
My quote for today -

The 11 "COMMANDMENTS" from the work schedule by writer, Henry Miller. (Pg. 161 - Henry Miller on Writing)

I have to remind myself of all of these wonderful words of wisdom. It's often easy to forget. Enjoy.

xo
>s
---

1. Work on one thing at a time until finished.

2. Start no more new books, add no more new material to "Black Spring".

3. Don't be nervous. Work calmly, joyously, recklessly, on whatever is at hand.

4. Work according to Program and not according to mood. Stop at the appointed time!

5 When you can't "create" you can "work".

6. Cement a little every day, rather than add new fertilizers.

7. Keep human! See people, go places, drink if you feel like it.

8. Don't be a draught-horse! Work with pleasure only.

9. Discard the Program when you feel like it-but go back to it the next day. "Concentrate". "Narrow down". "Exclude".

10. Forget the books you want to write. Think only of the book you "are" writing.

11. Write first and always. Painting, music, friends, cinema, all these come afterwards.

Commission | Homeland

2008-12-16T21:11:00.001-05:00

Commission | Homeland
Originally uploaded by selflesh

A recent commission.
---
Find more examples here.

Summer Wind | 1 - 3

2008-11-15T19:18:00.002-05:00

Summer Wind | 1 - 3
Originally uploaded by selflesh

A busy bee am I.
---
I just finished 59 Originals that will be heading to Craftland.
You can see them here.

+
Check out my shop on paper n stitch.

It's a lovely curated place where you can find oodles of lovely gifts and goodies.

Heartstrings

2008-11-09T21:30:00.006-05:00

Heartstrings
Originally uploaded by selflesh

A series of 50 Embroidered Map Collages made exclusively for Little Paper Planes. Available here.

---

Each one measures 5" x 7"
Hand cut vintage map of anatomical heart and hand embroidered.
Signed and numbered.

East

2008-10-23T12:25:00.005-04:00

East
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I've been a tad busy since my last post. So here is the update!
;)

---
My self portrait for Peer
A coloring book of 25 contemporary artists' self portraits
Curated by Renee B. Garner

Interview
With Kyle Steed

Some Seaside Series originals up for grabs!

Interview
Maine Today
Mixed Media - by Jamie Thompson

A new Bird Series heading out to various venues.
Some for a show titled Itty/Bitty in R.I.
Some for Craftland in R.I.
+
Some in the shop!

A blog post about the Bird Series by the lovely Meighan O'Toole
My Love for you is a Stampede of Horses

+
Finally an anatomical heart series titled Heartstrings exclusively for Little Paper Planes, that should be available sometime next month.

Phew!

+
The "chosen at random" quote for this lovely afternoon is from the book Henry Miller on Writing.

xo
>s

---

"I believe that one has to pass beyond the sphere and influence of art. Art is only a means to life, to the life more abundant. It is not in itself the life more abundant. It merely points the way, something which is overlooked not only by the public, but very often by the artist himself. In becoming an end it defeats itself. Most artists are defeating life by their very attempt to grapple with it. They have split the egg in two. All art, I firmly belive, will one day dissapear. But the artist will remain, and life itself will become not "an art", but art, i.e., will definitely and for all time usurp the field. In any true sense of we are certainly not yet alive. We are no longer animals, but we are certainly not yet men. Since the dawn of art every great artist has been dinning that into us, but few are they who have understood it. Once art is really accepted it will cease to be. It is only a substitute, a symbol-language, for something which can be seized directly. But for that to become possible man must become thoroughly religious, not a believer, but a prime mover, a god in fact and deed. He will become that inevitably. Any of all the detours along this path art is the most glorious, the most fecund, the most instructive. The artist who becomes thoroughly aware consequently ceases to be one. And the trend is towards awareness, towards that blinding consciousness in which no present form of life can possibly flourish, not even art."

Henry Miller on Writing
by Henry Miller
Pg. 110

Exodus

2008-09-28T23:22:00.007-04:00

Exodus
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I've taken a small break from drawing, and have returned to working with maps again. This is an obvious departure from my recent map work, but the process was actually quite similar to the way I've been creating drawings.

It's always interesting to see how processes and ideas begin to overlap and present new results!

I'm posting two quotes for the evening from "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle. I've been quite immersed in his books lately, and feel it's easier for me to be connected to the work when I can be present.
;)

Enjoy.
xo
>s

---

"If a fish is born in your aquarium and you call him John, write out a birth certificate, tell him about his family history, and two minutes later he gets eaten by another fish --- that's tragic. Bit it's only tragic because you projected a separate self where there was none. You got hold of a fraction of a dynamic process, a molecular dance, and made a separate entity out of it."

"Become an alchemist. Transmute base metal into gold, suffering into consciousness, disaster into enlightenment."

The Power of Now
Eckhart Tolle

One Line

2008-09-13T17:58:00.002-04:00

One Line
Originally uploaded by selflesh

It's been some time since I have posted anything here. I've been so immersed in my recent series of drawings, I have barely had time to lift my head. Although I do set time aside to head outdoors and look at the smallest details in nature.
---
I attempted this experiment recently, by creating this drawing with one continuous line. After I finished it, it sort of reminded me of a fingerprint. Today I came across this hiding under a broken branch. I haven't seen anything like it before, and I was thrilled to see it connected to this recent drawing! Lovely.

My quote for today is another one from the Cosmos and Carl Sagan.
Enjoy.

xo
>s
---

"We have never seen a galaxy change its form significantly only because it takes so long to move. The Milky Way rotates once every quarter billion years. If we were to speed the rotation, we would see that the Galaxy is a dynamic, almost organic entity, in some ways resembling a multi-cellular organism."

Cosmos
Carl Sagan

A Small

2008-09-13T17:47:00.001-04:00

A Small
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Painting.

A small

2008-09-13T17:46:00.001-04:00

A small
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Drawing.

Progress

2008-08-23T00:21:00.003-04:00

In Progress
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Studio Corner

2008-08-23T00:12:00.002-04:00

Studio Corner
Originally uploaded by selflesh

We've been busy giving our "Nook" a face lift, so my recent drawing obsession was put on hold briefly. However, since we have wrapped things up (for now), I am looking forward to returning to this lovely little white space, and get some work done.

Lately I've been spending some time observing, and photographing some of the smallest details in nature. I am especially drawn to the variety of plants surrounding us here, and I have recently begun a new series of drawings that loosely reference the structures of these plants.

---
Here is my seemingly random quote for the evening.

"Human beings grew up in forests; we have a natural affinity for them. How lovely a tree is, straining toward the sky. Its leaves harvest sunlight to photosynthesize, so trees compete by shadowing their neighbors. If you look closely you can often see two trees pushing and shoving with languid grace. Trees are great and beautiful machines, powered by sunlight, taking water from the ground and carbon dioxide from the air, converting these material into food for their use and ours. The plant uses the carbohydrates it makes as an energy source to go about its planty business. And we animals, who are ultimately parasites on the plants, steal the carbohydrates so we can go about our business. In eating the plants we combine the carbohydrates with oxygen dissolved in our blood because of our penchant for breathing air, and so extract the energy that makes us go. In the process we exhale carbon dioxide, which the plants then recycle to make more carbohydrates. What a marvelous cooperative arrangement--plants and animals each inhaling the other's exhalations, a kind of planet-wide mutual mouth-to-stoma resuscitation, the entire elegant cycle powered by a star 150 million kilometers away."

Cosmos
Carl Sagan

(+ The Book Cosmos)

;)

Pod

2008-08-11T17:17:00.002-04:00

Pod
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Here is a new Pod piece for your perusal.

;)

Drawing Again

2008-08-10T13:55:00.003-04:00

Topo
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Since the CMCA install, I have been obsessed with drawing...

I haven't really drawn in a long time, so it is a refreshing change for me! It's amazing how much pleasure can come from simply drawing, and being in the moment. This particular drawing is based on a lichen pattern, and it obviously references a topographic map as well.

Nature is right outside my front door, and sometimes I forget that. So, I am now spending more time getting out there, and looking closer...

The drawings that I am making and the process coincides quite nicely with a book that I am currently reading. So, the quote below is short but sweet, and from that book.

xo

---
To stay present in everyday life, it helps to be deeply rooted within yourself; otherwise, the mind, which has incredible momentum, will drag you along like a wild river.

The Power of Now
by Eckhart Tolle

Install

2008-08-07T12:21:00.004-04:00

Heartbreaking
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Okay, I know...
This video is disappointing!
I had hoped to document the entire installation. Unfortunately I was only able to capture about a third of it before the batteries died on me. Ugh!

Anyhoo, I'll plan to try it again next time!

The finished piece is on view at the CMCA in Rockport, Maine for the 2008 Biennial Juried Exhibition. August 9th - October 4th.

It took me 12 solid hours to install. By the end of it, I was delirious, but it was worth it! It was a very affirming experience for me, and I hope to continue to create more installations in the future.

My quote for today connects to the work I have been making. Of course it was another instance where I simply flipped through the pages, and found the excerpt at random!

Enjoy!
---

What you need is an acceptance of yourself as you are. You are like a seed. You don't know what you are going to be when spring comes - maybe a chrysanthemum, or an orchid , or maybe just a plain dandelion. Do you want to know the outcome of the flowering that much? What about simply letting yourself be during the flowering process? Be with the process and enjoy it. When the flower comes to full bloom, it is usually the last part of your life, and you're ready to go to seed. You've spent all your life looking, working, worrying, fighting for that last moment of flowering which is going to be a glorious display. Because of intellectual ideas we are always aiming towards some gorgeous flower that each one of us has in mind. Most of the time we don't become that exact flower, and we are very unhappy. Life is the process, the preparing for the flowering. If seed had goals, there wouldn't be very many flowers.

---
Embrace Tiger, Return to Mountain
- the essence of T'ai Chi
by Al Chung-liang Huang

Tangled Web

2008-07-23T23:59:00.003-04:00

North Pole Byways
Originally uploaded by selflesh

11:44 PM
I like numbers.
---
I just finished watching Planet Earth (Disc 1).
Wow!!!

It's been a bit since I have 'blogged', so here I am back at it again!
This image is almost an illustration of the way my life has been the past few weeks... Just pure chaos!

Primarily because I/we decided to open a new shop.
alteredvintage

So all sorts of things are scattered about our space in order to organize, shoot, pack, and stack!

It's all part of the process of things it seems...
---

With this new piece, I feel recurring themes are resurfacing in my work, and I'm thinking this is a very good thing. It took me most of the day to make this piece, and I am looking forward to more productive days in the near future.

My quote for the evening. Tis' now 11:58 PM (It took me 14 minutes to write this ditti.)
---
"Those who have returned from an attempt to circumnavigate the Earth do not say they have been prevented by an opposing continent, for the sea remained perfectly open, but, rather through want of resolution and scarcity of provision... It is quite possible that in the temperate zone there may be one or two habitable Earths. Indeed, if [this other part of the world] is inhabited, it is not inhabited by men such as exist in our parts, and we should have to regard it as another inhabited world."

Written by Alexandrian geographer Strabo
Pg.
16
Cosmos by Carl Sagan

Commission

2008-07-04T15:19:00.004-04:00

Commission
Originally uploaded by selflesh

i just finished up this Hand commission for an Etsy customer. I have to say... I truly love making pieces especially for someone. It has that much more meaning! If you are interested in having a commission made especially for you, let me know. (selflesh[!at]yahoo.com)

These days, I am finishing up some work for an upcoming show, making macaroni salad for our 4th of July festivities, and looking forward to making it back out into the garden again. We took the month off from working outside, (No. 1) because we had a lot of art work to make, and (No. 2) because it (was) Black Fly season around here. So, now we are relatively free of them pesky bugs. Phew!

Next up on my agenda is to make oodles of new work for the shop.
I hope to tidy things up around there too, so if there is something you really want, I'd grab it. Otherwise, just ask... because I may have it saved especially for you.
;)

Below is my quote for the day.
Enjoy!
Best,
>s

---
Concerning the Spiritual in Art
Wassily Kandinsky
Pg. 25

...When they are true works of art, such forms fulfil their purposes and nourish the spirit. Though this remark applies to the first case, it applies more strongly to the third, in which the spectator hears an answering chord in himself. Such emotional chords cannot be superficial or without value; the feeling of such a picture can indeed deepen and purify the feeling of the spectator. The spirit at least is preserved from coarseness: such pictures tune it up, as a tuning fork does the strings of a musical instrument. But the subtilization and extension of this chord in time and space remained limited, and the potential power of art is not exhausted by it.

Heart

2008-06-30T18:21:00.004-04:00

Heart
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Every year I create work for The Black Frame Show benefiting Bayside, in Portland, Maine, and every year I seem to make something different based on what I am working on at the time. These map collages seem to be sticking with me these days, but I wanted to take them a little further, by layering, and cutting the in-between (road) spaces.

Above is a detail image of one of the pieces that will be in the show. Here are more details, with final scanned images coming soon...

They say "Home is where the Heart is", and currently my home is here in Maine. The squeeze and I talk frequently of buying land somewhere. Who knows where that will be exactly... but one thing is for certain, we hope it will be somewhere where we can grow our own food, and live a sustainable life! While researching our storage options, I came across the quote (below) by Abraham Lincoln. (J's version ;)

Enjoy!
xo
>s

---

"The greatest fine art of the future will be the making of a comfortable living from a small piece of land".
Abraham Lincoln

Root Cellaring - Natural Cold Storage of Fruits & Vegetables
by Mike and Nancy Bubel

Create

2008-06-28T16:08:00.005-04:00

Hands
Originally uploaded by selflesh

It's nice to be making again, and it is even better to be on a new path. Sometimes I'm so immersed in one particular idea or direction that it becomes difficult to break free of it. When I have "artists' block" it's usually due to this. Now that things are tidy again, I'm on a roll. Above is a sneak peek at what I've been up to these past few days.

---

I don't know about you, but I have a tendency to read many of the same books over and over again. I have a sort of small collection of books that are a constant source of inspiration and encouragement for me. I've read many of them so many times, that I simply flip open to a page in hopes of catching a glimpse of some new insight.

I thought I would occasionally include some quotes from these books in case you might find them inspiring as well!

Enjoy.
xo
>s

---

"We are called upon to do something new, to confront a no man’s land, to push into a forest where there are no well-worn paths. To live into the future means to leap into the unknown, and this requires a degree of courage. Courage is the capacity to move ahead in spite of despair."

The Courage to Create by Rollo May

Conversation

2008-06-26T12:31:00.005-04:00

Conversation
Originally uploaded by selflesh

My art making process tends to be guided by a series of small rules that I set up for myself. Sometimes this is a good thing, and sometimes it isn't.

For a while now, I have been working with the same forms over and over again. Now I am beginning to branch out, and explore variations of these forms. This "Conversation" piece is one of those small breakthrough moments for me. This image has been recurring in my mind for sometime now, so it is a definitely a relief to finally make it!

These two heads and their visual dialog are cut from one map. They are physically connected through their exchange/conversation.

---
Jill Taylor - Stroke of Insight

I am sure many of you have already seen this, but just in case you haven't, have a look and a listen because I think it's amazing and you just might too!!!

xo
>s

Design*Sponge

2008-06-25T16:27:00.004-04:00

6/24/08
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I've been keeping busy these days...

A handful of commissions are in the works, along with preparing for a few shows coming up! I plan to have some new goodies in the shop as soon as possible. Thought I'd let you know about a fortunate interview on Design*Sponge...

The talented Anne Ditmeyer of Prêt à Voyager has been putting together interviews for D*S with artists/designers from Iceland, and now Portland, Maine. I was lucky enough to be included among the list of talented folks living and working in Maine!

You can read it here.

xo
>s

Embroidered Head

2008-06-07T10:28:00.002-04:00

Embroidered Head
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Shop update at Noon e.s.t. today / Saturday 6/7/08!!!

Seaside at Pod

2008-06-03T16:42:00.001-04:00

8 Down
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Some framed work for my show at Pod.

---
Seaside
by Shannon Rankin

June 5-30, 2008
at Pod

Opening Reception
June 5th, 5-8 PM

Pod
313 Washington Street
Brookline Village, MA 02445

www.shop-pod.com

Orange Coral

2008-05-28T11:51:00.001-04:00

Orange Coral
Originally uploaded by selflesh

A new piece finished for the show at Pod.
I will be posting others here soon.

xo
>s

Head | Avia

2008-05-15T17:49:00.008-04:00

Head | Avia
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I'm in the process of finishing a new commission, this commission will be the largest one that I have created so far. It will include two heads and will measure 24" x 18". Now I have a larger head pattern available, so I decided to make this 9" x 12" Map Collage Head for the shop. I'm thinking this larger size is quite nice!

Now...
Back to working on the extended Seaside series for the upcoming Pod show!!! Oodles to do!

xo

Heart

2008-05-15T00:21:00.001-04:00

Heart
Originally uploaded by selflesh

A recent commissioned piece.

Heads (No. 1)

2008-05-10T22:10:00.004-04:00

Heads (No. 1)
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Things have been busy these days...

In addition to finally finishing the pieces for The Devotion to Thread show, wrestling with Alders, and working on a few other projects, I have just finished some pieces for a couple of new Map Collage Subscribers!

I recently listed a couple of Embroidered Prints (left over from the Devotion to Thread show), and I plan to have a few more new pieces in the shop very soon.

xo
>s

Yellow

2008-04-27T20:25:00.001-04:00

Yellow
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Another favorite one of the series, and the star of the "My Devotion" video. Thanks for looking!

xo
>s

My Devotion

2008-04-26T19:27:00.001-04:00

My Devotion
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I thought I would make a small video.

This depicts some speedy embroidery in progress for the "Devotion to Thread" show. You can see more images here.

I hope you enjoy it.
:)

Connecting

2008-04-24T15:51:00.002-04:00

Originally uploaded by selflesh

A recent piece for the "Devotion to Thread" show.

I'm still trying out a variety of stitches. Connecting the dots.
+
Wondering if I should work solely in an organic fashion, or if I should work with specific structured patterns.

Currently I'm enjoying the more abstract and organic approach.
I think this one is my favorite one at the moment.

Search

2008-04-20T22:08:00.001-04:00

Search
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Sketching on vellum, in an attempt to find a series of patterns to work with for my contribution to the "Devotion to Thread" show.

I started with one basic structure, and now I am exploring some of the endless possibilities...

Commission

2008-04-19T23:51:00.002-04:00

Commission
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Life is getting busier these days...
I have a number of different projects going on at once!

I just recently finished this commissioned piece for a lovely Etsy customer of mine. It has been some time now since I have worked on any Map Collages, so it was a refreshing departure from the painting. However, I will be soon back at the painting and embroidering for some upcoming shows.

In a couple of weeks I will be in a show titled "Devotion to Thread" curated by Faythe Levine. Over the next two weeks, I will be posting my progress and images here.

This summer I will be installing my "Germinate" piece for the CMCA Biennial, creating 5 new pieces for the Bayside: Black Frame Show, and creating a new Seaside Series for a show at Pod.

In addition to all these fun projects, I also have a few new Map Collage subscribers, and a few more commissions ahead of me...

Life is good, busy but good.
+
The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the snow is melting.

xo
>s

Tiny Shells

2008-04-16T23:25:00.001-04:00

Tiny Shells
Originally uploaded by selflesh

This one is now in the shop.

Red Shell

2008-04-16T23:13:00.002-04:00

Red Shell
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Embroidered Gouache Painting
Measures 8" x 10"

For Pod.

Grasses and Shell

2008-04-14T01:01:00.001-04:00

Grasses and Shell
Originally uploaded by selflesh

After making the Seaside Series, I was invited by Meighan of My Love For You is a Stampede of Horses to make some work for a show at Pod this summer. So, Im diving in and making a large series of pieces similar to the early Seaside Series.

---
While I am working on the slightly larger pieces for the show, I will also be making a series of smaller works (5" x 7") for my shop.

This piece is in the shop.
xo

No. 4

2008-04-05T22:19:00.004-04:00

No. 4
Originally uploaded by selflesh

+
This one is in the shop too.

---
So this is what I ended up doing with the dots.
You can see more of the Symbiosis Series here.

xo

No. 3

2008-04-05T22:14:00.001-04:00

No. 3
Originally uploaded by selflesh

In the shop.

No. 1

2008-04-05T11:53:00.003-04:00

No. 1
Originally uploaded by selflesh

The first of the series.
I'm in love with these right now.
So, I think I'll hold on to some of them for a little while...

I'll let you know when I begin posting them in the shop.

More here.

Bits

2008-04-04T21:37:00.001-04:00

Bits
Originally uploaded by selflesh

In addition to moving furniture...
I also have an obsession with breaking things down into tiny bits.
I make a painting, I cut it up.
---

Perhaps, it might have something to do with keeping things intimate, and manageable, and precious.

Gifty

2008-04-04T16:54:00.001-04:00

Guess
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Guess the name of the book that these lovely patterns come from, and I will send you a little gifty in the mail.

Good luck.
;)

---
xo

Pile | In the Studio

2008-04-03T23:04:00.001-04:00

Pile
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I'm still cutting away.
+
Here is my favorite pile.
Okay so there was some organization involved...
Not completely random, but pretty close.

I'm thinking there is something to this...

Roots | On the Wall

2008-04-03T23:02:00.001-04:00

Roots
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I've decided this is the easiest way...
I have my "Art Bible" but sometimes everything gets lost in there.

So, I'm pulling things out.

+
Clipping things that catch my eye, together, on the wall.
This leaves the opportunity to switch it up quick!

Studio

2008-04-01T15:06:00.002-04:00

Studio
Originally uploaded by selflesh

This is the fourth time that I have moved my studio around since we moved in... I'm sure I'm not the only one with this sort of obsessive compulsive behavior! Am I? It's just that sometimes the work flow can feel blocked. I think that it has a lot to do with the space, and how it is set up.

So, I keep trying until it feels right.

This arrangement feels better to me, and now I am ready to get back to work! It's always nice to have a little change now and then.

However, if this sticks and everything finds it's place...
Then I'll really be happy!
;)

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I've been saying that I'll be posting new work in the shop "soon" for a while now... Sometimes the creative process pulls you where it wants. For now... I'm focussed on a few commission pieces, and some larger fine art pieces. However, I will be sure to tackle some smaller works in the near future!!! I'll keep you posted here.

xxxooo

Studio Corner

2008-04-01T14:56:00.001-04:00

Studio Corner
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Voila!

2008-03-30T18:47:00.001-04:00

Voila!
Originally uploaded by selflesh

The new "Germinate" template is ready.
This one is made with 1000 "seeds" or map dots, and pins.

I will be installing the piece at the CMCA Biennial this summer.
I'm rather excited about it!

Today | 3.29.08

2008-03-29T23:31:00.002-04:00

Today | 3.29.08
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Cut, cut, cut.
Looking to create some larger works on paper with these little bits...
More studio images here.

Limited Edition

2008-03-26T16:00:00.005-04:00

Limited Edition
Originally uploaded by selflesh

The Seaside Series is now available as archival prints here.
The edition of 8" x 8" prints is limited to 10.

Love

2008-03-26T15:57:00.002-04:00

Love
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I sure do love my subscribers.
So for their second "issue", they will be receiving Original Map Collage Hearts!

xxxooo
>s

Seaside

2008-03-20T19:29:00.001-04:00

Seaside
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Something new in the shop.
A small 6" x 6" embroidered gouache painting.

+
A whole lot of limited edition map collage prints.
Super!

xo
>s

Geometric

2008-03-06T12:36:00.003-05:00

Geometric
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Exploring...

Burst

2008-03-06T12:36:00.001-05:00

Burst
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Sea

2008-03-01T23:13:00.002-05:00

Sea
Originally uploaded by selflesh

Navigate.

Conversation

2008-03-01T23:08:00.001-05:00

Conversation
Originally uploaded by selflesh

More of these heads in conversation would be nice, eh?
This one is up in the shop.

Transplant

2008-02-29T18:29:00.003-05:00

Transplant
Originally uploaded by selflesh

I'm ready to let this one go.
So, she's in the shop.

Measures 8" x 10"
Best if you view it large.

See