In preparation to teach a group of 7th and 8th graders, basket weaving, I needed to weave a basket myself. In the spring of 2017 I wove this basket as an example to share with the students. This year in my current studies and return to college (a second degree in Art Education), I needed to create a still life in which to draw. In my drawing II course which I have been enjoying the challenge of, I get to explore my talents I usually don't focus attention on. As the cancellations were starting to cascade through my email I needed to focus on the finish of this drawing, I am 90% finished with the work, when I was called away, to take care of taxes and a family farm auction. In the storm of negative situations, it took will and focus to push through this work. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to use my gifts, I will never forget "where I was when" drawing this still life. There is always a deeper meaning to creative endeavors. Please support your artists and artisans, by buying local and handmade. You are supporting your neighbors, family, and community when you do so. 

Last year I really kicked up my creativity by starting a 30 works in 30 days in 30 inches. It was a great exercise in jump starting the year which lead to weaving a series of landscapes and then full on production for a fine juried art sale. After what seemed like a thesis show, I decided to "look into" what it would take to be certified in art education. One thing lead to another and I found my self knee deep enrolled and financed in two college classes for a full on second degree in art education. One component was taking a Drawing II class. so far it's gone well and my drawings are an exercise in itself. On my other blog you can see the art ed side of life. Although I have three looms threaded at home the weaving is hanging out patiently waiting for me to return.. I will. For now, however, embracing the dedication to a skill I never force myself to appreciate this much. It's been hard at time to force myself to "see". To find zen, that doesn't always come to everyone. Drawing is an art, but it's also so much more. Once I've started I can loose hours doing it. Thank goodness my family understands. 

I've been enjoying my drawing class. It been a nice challenge to revisit skills I haven't used professionally in a while. I know I can draw, However, to really see is a whole other skill. Most of my evenings  lately consist of, if not critically thinking, writing, or reading, improving my drawing seeing skills.