tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55848157096412601882024-03-13T13:44:27.634-05:00Studio 201Impracticalities and ramblings of an artist.Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.comBlogger509125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-88073250262982114182011-07-15T12:13:00.002-05:002011-07-15T12:29:21.144-05:00By the BuffaloThe case of the buffalo (as described in the previous post). Last weekend we made an impulsive trip to Bricktown in OKC. We pulled into a parking lot and VOILA! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1rWyvWXiHuw/TiB1TGL6TCI/AAAAAAAADkg/q_qK3Ue8CQ0/s1600/IMG_0451.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1rWyvWXiHuw/TiB1TGL6TCI/AAAAAAAADkg/q_qK3Ue8CQ0/s320/IMG_0451.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629628505151654946" border="0" /></a>A buffalo. Memories are bound to be made! The lot cost $6 and had to be paid via machine. Between the two of us, we did not have change for the machine. It was late but we noticed a shop open at the shopping center next to the lot to ask for some change. It was a cupcake shop. They had just closed. They were cleaning and placing chairs atop the tables. The girl at the back noticed us as she fiddled with a box she gestured towards us. We weren't sure what this meant but we checked the door and it was locked. As we were about to walk away we noticed she was approaching the door. She opened it, box in hand, and asked, "Are you here for cupcakes?!?" "SURE!" we replied. We asked for some change for the lot and she told us we may park in front of their shop! Free parking and free cupcakes! Can't beat it. So, THE Buffalo?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pinkitzel.com/"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bljeSJlM5Xc/TiB1Sx-s4FI/AAAAAAAADkY/Zee06M296JQ/s320/IMG_0453.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629628499727540306" border="0" /></a> Check out Pinkitzel! Buy something! We tried the chocolate-chocolate, strawberry, peanut butter and some chocolate/oreo/cookie with filling! MMMmm!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-29504005091525470802011-07-15T11:54:00.004-05:002011-07-15T12:12:52.320-05:00Lucky CharmsThe Buffalo. It appears at the damnedest times. I consider it a symbol of fortune and identity. It's a grazer, a prairie dweller and a wallower, lover of the sun? It has horns, and the only thing likely to take one down is a pack of wolves. Wolves-they're all around (me). <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-azxkdYDdE_0/TiBw_Yu6RDI/AAAAAAAADkQ/qUYJsrjzq1E/s1600/IMG_0455.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-azxkdYDdE_0/TiBw_Yu6RDI/AAAAAAAADkQ/qUYJsrjzq1E/s320/IMG_0455.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629623768486396978" border="0" /></a>My BFF and I hold the buffalo in high regard as it usually appears prior to good news/action. But, we have also noticed that it's presence does not always bring gifts. It is mischievous. Sometimes it appears to make us evaluate the current situation (which is usually an awakening that we need to straighten up). It's a mother, a warning. We ARE in control, but we better take a look in from the outside. Most of the time the outcome is positive, lucky? or just a voice of reason? Either way, it's a blessing and a welcome symbol. Don't question the Buffalo! Many stories of this beautiful beast to come. . .Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-55172218186291670222011-06-25T12:15:00.003-05:002011-06-25T13:52:24.200-05:00Doodles from the DeskMusic, Hosty (I swear I'm not obsessed) and cars<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sb6qLWQcQew/TgYbgrMJ9FI/AAAAAAAADkA/4WnMYJP5r3E/s1600/IMG_0426.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sb6qLWQcQew/TgYbgrMJ9FI/AAAAAAAADkA/4WnMYJP5r3E/s320/IMG_0426.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622211432982115410" border="0" /></a>. There are some things that never change. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PxyaRwv9B7E/TgYbg_QmAPI/AAAAAAAADkI/CEu3nDBuU6I/s1600/IMG_0435.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PxyaRwv9B7E/TgYbg_QmAPI/AAAAAAAADkI/CEu3nDBuU6I/s320/IMG_0435.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622211438369439986" border="0" /></a>Sometimes I venture out and make oragami.Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-25239278710900693872011-06-25T11:47:00.003-05:002011-06-25T12:15:51.808-05:00The Big CityGood morning! It's a slow start to a Saturday but I wouldn't have it any other way. I have time to relax, ponder and blog! I've been trying to get back into the swing of everyday post but it's tough. Now that I'm back at a desk for forty hours a week you'd think I could sneak a post in here or there. Well, I probably could. But, I've been living in the moment. I replaced the camera I used to haul in my satchel with a book. Photos take a back seat to the demands of life (living).<br /><br />My camera also contributed to the decision to ditch documentation. It was big with minimal battery life. I may be able to snap 5 or 6 photos (maybe) before it told me to change the new batteries. I'm highly considering buying a new one if not for the sake of this blog but to document my art. I've decided to let my website lapse. It's out of date and it cost money. I plan on a major overhaul and then she'll go live. A revival. Anyone out there want to help?<br /><br />So, back to living. . .Last weekend I made a short jaunt to visit my grandpa in Fort Worth. He had been hounding me about making the trip. I hadn't been since last summer. I need a breath of fresh air, I need to see wine in the grocery store, but most of all I need to sit and have coffee with my grandpa while he reads the paper. We talk politics and cars. He tells me stories about my mom and takes me shopping. He's a stand up guy, love him!<br /><br />We usually don't partake in the night life but I couldn't resist. They'd tuck in early and I had to burn the midnight oil! One of my favorite spots is the Scat Jazz Lounge. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVvbo8YSeqY/TgYRQL-8fGI/AAAAAAAADjw/RLv1HfcUSj4/s1600/IMG_0413.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVvbo8YSeqY/TgYRQL-8fGI/AAAAAAAADjw/RLv1HfcUSj4/s320/IMG_0413.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622200154611022946" border="0" /></a> It's something out of a Dean Martin movie. The cover is a bit steep but who can put a price on fun? I overindulged a bit that first night and claimed I would take it easy the rest of the weekend. HA! The next afternoon I caught wind of my favorite Norman band playing near TCU! WHAT! The stars had aligned and the buffalo sighting personified. Alas, I couldn't be contained. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vy7tKGNmRUE/TgYRmuPY9YI/AAAAAAAADj4/GCAVO056Hq4/s1600/Picture%2B1.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 247px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vy7tKGNmRUE/TgYRmuPY9YI/AAAAAAAADj4/GCAVO056Hq4/s320/Picture%2B1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622200541763925378" border="0" /></a>Libations were tame but it was made up in dancing. Luckily, they were the openers so the set was short and I made it home just a bit after midnight. It was a pleasantly busy weekend, Fort Worth has always been close to my heart! Visit if you can, see some museums. . .Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-78535479370612245782011-06-14T12:13:00.002-05:002011-06-14T12:33:20.669-05:00RenewalNothing new, I've been burning the candle at both ends. Last weekend it caught up with me. I felt exhausted, emotional, and blue. I wasn't sure how kick it. Once you start down that road it's tough to find an off ramp (and lord knows, drinkin' ain't the answer). I've been feeling restless and homesick. I long for Tulsa, my treehouse, my studio, walks with Zola through Maple Park and stopping time at <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/place?hl=en&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&biw=1440&bih=723&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=coffee+house+on+cherry+street+tulsa&fb=1&gl=us&hq=coffee+house&hnear=0x87b6ec9716f3fc4f:0x3bea8c46cfc2ffda,Cherry+Street,+Tulsa,+OK&cid=9963289357108306726">CHOCS</a>. I've already grown tired of routine and forty hour work weeks in an office. It's only been about two weeks and my head is in the clouds. Through the darkness I have realized that my decision to move away was necessary and I am positive it was the right decision.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-91K3U7RKutc/TfeXKL8-uTI/AAAAAAAADjo/IhS4bZUYjms/s1600/Picture%2B5.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-91K3U7RKutc/TfeXKL8-uTI/AAAAAAAADjo/IhS4bZUYjms/s320/Picture%2B5.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618125261431028018" border="0" /></a>So, to kick the blues? Mother nature. A trip to the lake did the trick, along with some much needed inspiration and support from a kindred spirit-we shall refer to him as "Big Daddy" (because it would make him laugh). We all wax and wane. Thankfully, the earth and our dearest are always there for the downward spiral. Even through the heartbreak of being away from Tulsa, I was able to appreciate my home-the red dirt, muddy water and family. My cousin and I (along with her buddy)spent a few hours in the cool lake, basked in the sun and had a picnic. We had lots of laughs and I felt renewed, connected and ready to start a new week! It was a wonderful way to wrap up a melancholy Monday! Now, onward. . .conquer the 405!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-38166626501994006282011-06-13T10:18:00.002-05:002011-06-13T15:35:21.742-05:00SummerSummer 2011 is full fledged! It's tough to believe I've already concluded a full year of grad school. When I started I was hesitant about a three year commitment but now I'm thankful I have an extra year to get my thesis together. Because of the extended program, I am able to take a summer "off." I decided I'd try to save some money this summer so I took a job opportunity here in Norman and decided I'd camp out at my folks.<br /><br />Last night I was hangin' at my local haunt when one of my buddies reminded me that I haven' blogged in a bit. It's sat dormant this last year. I've been busy and had little time to collect my thought much less organize a blog. I spent most of my waking hours in the studio and socializing. Regardless of my bad habit of burning the candle from both ends, I someone made it out alive. Now, I'm back in Norman, studio less and overwhelmed with a full time job and too many social opportunities. Back to the grind, on the balancing beam. . .<br /><br />We'll see how it goes. Maybe I just need to get back into blogging/venting/spilling. It's good to throw it out there. I'll work on the visuals. I hope to build a new portfolio this summer. Woodcuts! Lots, of carving!<br /><br />In the meantime, take a peek at some collaborative pieces I did with the two other graduate students:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJJ_ehdXbRo/TfY6-LH57rI/AAAAAAAADjg/vvYomBfV6cU/s1600/Picture%2B10.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJJ_ehdXbRo/TfY6-LH57rI/AAAAAAAADjg/vvYomBfV6cU/s320/Picture%2B10.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617742425003519666" border="0" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iT8J4t0kTMs/TfY68Gep_eI/AAAAAAAADjI/qr0thJh8KjI/s1600/Picture%2B7.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 318px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iT8J4t0kTMs/TfY68Gep_eI/AAAAAAAADjI/qr0thJh8KjI/s320/Picture%2B7.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617742389397028322" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MaVLgd0ISmo/TfY69R7s1MI/AAAAAAAADjY/bya4xfnBKc0/s1600/Picture%2B9.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MaVLgd0ISmo/TfY69R7s1MI/AAAAAAAADjY/bya4xfnBKc0/s320/Picture%2B9.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617742409651508418" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP64bRVtf7Y/TfY688S_ATI/AAAAAAAADjQ/txPRRlaHVN0/s1600/Picture%2B8.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP64bRVtf7Y/TfY688S_ATI/AAAAAAAADjQ/txPRRlaHVN0/s320/Picture%2B8.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617742403843588402" border="0" /></a>[Photos by Natalie!]<br />Meet <a href="http://johnbryantart.org/index.php?/art/beszel--ul-qoma/">John</a> and <a href="http://www.natalieslater.com/">Natalie</a>. Someday we hope to take the OKIE print scene by storm. Hell, we may even spark it? Stay tuned...SUMMER!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-78817954235528704502011-03-30T19:34:00.002-05:002011-03-30T19:42:31.421-05:00SpringHowdy!<br /><br />Surprise! I'm still here! Yep, I haven't fallen from the face of the earth. Just been tied up with my love, Tulsa! Chasing her is a full time job. 2011! Yep, deep into it, already #4. Not to be a spoil sport but 2011 isn't 2010. I've decided even years bring luck. Good thing, there's still time to warm up to 2011 and I suspect the warmer it gets the better it becomes. Fingers crossed.<br /><br />As I was saying, it's been a whirlwind. I have two classes outside of the art school this semester and I feel like my printmaking/painting/mixed media work has waned because of it. I've been busy with book studies. This year has been filled with lots of social outings. Pie, beer, dancing, lots of dancing, music, boys, more boys. The semester is on it's way out the door and things are getting serious. I'm sitting in my studio preparing some pieces for the annual student show (next Thursday, April 7). It's juried, hopefully I can get something accepted. A few other things worth mentioning: The TU MFA thesis show is this Friday, April 1 at the Living Arts Gallery, COME! Support these budding artist, they've worked their asses off.<br /><br />Also, A couple of weeks ago I attended Southern Graphics Conference (SGC) a printmaking conference. It was heaven! It's good to see other people with crazy, nerdy, print obsessions. And, St. Louis has a lot to offer! I'm headed back this summer for a week long 'bootcamp' with the woodcut master, Tom Huck! I'm stoked. Well, there's lots more but I'm getting a bit overwhelmed just thinking about it. On that note, I'll leave you with a slideshow from the photos from my phone. I just unloaded them onto my computer and decided that may entertain you and give you an idea of that I do when I'm running this town! Enjoy. XoXo (Don't be a stranger, even if I am).<br /><div><embed src="http://widget-69.slide.com/widgets/slideticker.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" wmode="transparent" flashvars="cy=bb&il=1&channel=1729382256937838953&site=widget-69.slide.com" style="width: 400px; height: 320px;" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width: 400px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=un&id=1729382256937838953&map=1" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-69.slide.com/p1/1729382256937838953/bb_t040_v000_s0un_f00/images/xslide1.gif" ismap="ismap" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=un&id=1729382256937838953&map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-69.slide.com/p2/1729382256937838953/bb_t040_v000_s0un_f00/images/xslide2.gif" ismap="ismap" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=un&id=1729382256937838953&map=F" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-69.slide.com/p4/1729382256937838953/bb_t040_v000_s0un_f00/images/xslide42.gif" ismap="ismap" border="0" /></a></div></div>Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-57928225591799521572011-01-26T19:30:00.003-06:002011-01-26T19:49:52.736-06:00SwapI'm part of a contemporary, embroidery group on Flickr:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/phatquarter/"> Phat Quarter. </a><br />I embroider to relax. I embroider to carry on seemingly 'dieing' craft. Phat Quarter makes me think otherwise. We're alive and well, hopefully getting closer to galleries. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TUDK7B2k8JI/AAAAAAAADi4/pd9hYSgYB_Y/s1600/IMG_5312.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TUDK7B2k8JI/AAAAAAAADi4/pd9hYSgYB_Y/s320/IMG_5312.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566672254888374418" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TUDK68IAioI/AAAAAAAADiw/JGnZKKSBHnc/s1600/IMG_5309.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TUDK68IAioI/AAAAAAAADiw/JGnZKKSBHnc/s320/IMG_5309.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566672253350873730" border="0" /></a><br />Every month with a fifth Friday, the group organizes a swap. This month the theme was 'Music.' I decided to go somewhat generic. I ran the canvas through my inkjet and embellished. It was a quick and fun piece. Now that I'm able to print directly onto fabric with my printer I've been going crazy with embroidery. To bad I haven't found that motivation for my classes. I need a muse. . .<br /><br />I'm off to Norman this weekend so I should get back to packing. Have a Happy Weekend!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-29144144492128028492011-01-21T10:05:00.002-06:002011-01-21T10:14:51.683-06:00Mixed MediaSo, I'm formally labeled a printmaker. Enrolled as an MFA student in Printmaking. While I love printmaking, I'm sort of an 'anti-printmaker, printmaker' I work in small numbers, mostly 1. I'm not big on huge production run and I love 'one-of-a kind.' I guess I'm a 'painterly-print maker.' Who needs labels anyway?<br /><br />I really consider myself a mixed media artist. I love textiles, thread and I'm always look for ways to incorporate craft into my work. Lately, I've been hellbent on image transfers. How can I apply printmaking to fabric? Well, screen printing is an obvious solution but what else? It was during my research that I realized a seemingly obvious method but it was something I hadn't thought about. How about running fabric through an inkjet printer? WOW! Profound. Here's a great <a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2010/07/how-to_print_on_fabric_with_an.html">tutorial</a>. My printer is a cheapy and it doesn't support banner/large format so I just spray adhesive fabric to sheets of card stock. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTmu0UeM1RI/AAAAAAAADio/cAkNt8UFsxQ/s1600/IMG_5307.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTmu0UeM1RI/AAAAAAAADio/cAkNt8UFsxQ/s320/IMG_5307.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564671028464768274" border="0" /></a>Voila!<br /><br />There are also various solvent transfer methods. One of the popular transfer methods around our Art School is <a href="http://prairiefibers.blogspot.com/2010/03/image-transfers.html">Hand Sanitizer Transfers</a>. They don't do very well on textiles but they work beautifully on smooth surfaces such as watercolor paper or wood.<br /><br />I also ran across a <a href="http://graphicsfairy.blogspot.com/2010/01/crafty-project-grain-sack-kitchen.html">Citra Solv Transfer</a> which I haven't tried but the tutorial is well done and seems successful! Have I missed anything? I'm always up for learning new techniques! Fun Friday and Weekend Wishes!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-36905297665724463082011-01-16T17:55:00.002-06:002011-01-16T18:02:32.608-06:00Last MinutesYesterday I had a baby shower to attend. I know, fun. Well, by Friday I decided I better get to work on something. I looked around and realized I had a thrift store frame ready for a revival. I rifled through some of my paper and found a couple of pieces of hand dyed paper that would fit. Of course, it had already been used so I had to figure out a way to piece them together. How about thread?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTOG8TmPq2I/AAAAAAAADiY/7JD4FIUO6uI/s1600/IMG_5304.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTOG8TmPq2I/AAAAAAAADiY/7JD4FIUO6uI/s320/IMG_5304.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562938335343651682" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTOG8eKhXEI/AAAAAAAADig/w_-7Y_FBvUw/s1600/IMG_5305.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTOG8eKhXEI/AAAAAAAADig/w_-7Y_FBvUw/s320/IMG_5305.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562938338180160578" border="0" /></a> I've been on a paper sewing kick since grad school. Not only is it functional but it's also like drawing, but with a sewing machine. It's also a very green approach. In the past, I saved every little inch of those expensive paper but in the end they just sat, untouched. Then, I moved and decided to throw all of those "useless" bits. What was I thinking? Now, I use them like a quilter uses scraps. It's fun and economical! So, for Reese Renee Robbins, I painted a Robin's nest. She'll be here in February! And, I'm happy to help jazz up her nest!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-22926076143597435582011-01-16T17:16:00.002-06:002011-01-16T17:45:41.716-06:00The CollectivePrintmaking is a team sport. Things run smoother in numbers. Aside from the technical benefits of working in a group it's also socially rewarding. I entered the printmaking department last fall with two other print grads. We've become a tight pack. In fact, this semester we plan on working on an extensive, collaborative project. More detail shall follow but for now, I want to discuss the Universal Limited Art Editions or <a href="http://www.ulae.com/default.aspx">ULAE</a>.<br /><br />Last Thursday, me and my fellow print-makers attended a lecture by Bill Goldston at the <a href="http://philbrookmuseum.blogspot.com/2011/01/bill-goldston-lecture.html">Philbrook</a>. Bill has maintained and grown the print collective and it's quite an amazing story. I won't elaborate since you can read the history on the website but Bill emphasized the importance of creating a community. I felt a spark. I told my cohorts that like the ULAE, we'd make history. After the lecture, we went over to a gallery down on <a href="http://abersonexhibits.com/about">Brookside</a> to see some of the prints that came out of the ULAE. It's big time. We're talking huge names: Rauschenberg, Johns, Tuttle, and so on. IT's endearing to see people banding together and exchanging ideas. We've decided to start our own group. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTODAH2K2pI/AAAAAAAADiQ/sqQ4HMZPnHo/s1600/Picture%2B1.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTODAH2K2pI/AAAAAAAADiQ/sqQ4HMZPnHo/s320/Picture%2B1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562934002862185106" border="0" /></a>We were all so pumped we went out for a few drinks and started tossing around names and logos! Time to take Tulsa by storm. Look out!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-31311894182774260652011-01-14T16:15:00.003-06:002011-01-14T16:37:17.145-06:00The ArsenalFirst Friday of the semester, Done! Which concludes the first week of my spring semester. Time flies. I can't believe it's already 2011! Today the graduate students were required to open their studios to the faculty. I wasn't sure what to expect but it turned out better than I anticipated. First, I hadn't personally met all the faculty so it was nice to formally meet and chit chat about the biz. I got some very constructive criticism. There were several suggestions that I'm really excited about. I've felt as though I've been lacking in direction and today a lot was clarified. Thanks TU faculty! <br /><br />After my appointment I decided to look over my notes from last semester. It was a full day of review and contemplation. I decided to make a catalog of the various, contemporary artist that my professor suggest I research. All of the artist are quite different and most of them do not directly relate to my work but they were offered for various reasons. Whether it be, technique, ingenuity, originality, color, composition or concept, each of these artist were discussed over the course of my studies. I think it's interesting to look at them as a collective but I also wanted to document the list digitally. Enjoy!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLviY5-XI/AAAAAAAADiI/AdlZGSgd5YM/s1600/Picture%2B10.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 252px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLviY5-XI/AAAAAAAADiI/AdlZGSgd5YM/s320/Picture%2B10.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169557348120946" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.pbs.org/art21/artists/murray/index.html?gclid=CM6Pwt3euqYCFS9m7Aod3lZvIw">Elizabeth Murray</a><br /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLvRHRQVI/AAAAAAAADiA/FcBgw3aVg48/s1600/Picture%2B9.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 316px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLvRHRQVI/AAAAAAAADiA/FcBgw3aVg48/s320/Picture%2B9.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169552710746450" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.josephcornellbox.com/">Joseph Cornell</a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLu4SzRMI/AAAAAAAADh4/f_ZRJ3niHEo/s1600/Picture%2B8.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLu4SzRMI/AAAAAAAADh4/f_ZRJ3niHEo/s320/Picture%2B8.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169546048226498" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.kurtschwitters.org/">Kurt Schwitters</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLcnU8P4I/AAAAAAAADhY/ZOK1GOh5T9E/s1600/Picture%2B4.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 234px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLcnU8P4I/AAAAAAAADhY/ZOK1GOh5T9E/s320/Picture%2B4.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169232256155522" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.joycekozloff.net/">Joyce Kozloff</a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLcOS2ItI/AAAAAAAADhI/xJHbSuDmB18/s1600/Picture%2B2.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 237px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLcOS2ItI/AAAAAAAADhI/xJHbSuDmB18/s320/Picture%2B2.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169225536479954" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.bethgrabowski.com/">Beth Grabowski</a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLcZa5eCI/AAAAAAAADhQ/mV40OKOd5ro/s1600/Picture%2B3.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 258px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLcZa5eCI/AAAAAAAADhQ/mV40OKOd5ro/s320/Picture%2B3.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169228523042850" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Readymades_of_Marcel_Duchamp">Marcel Duchamp (Readymades)</a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLcxM3wbI/AAAAAAAADhg/Mxsylm0h29Y/s1600/Picture%2B5.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 317px; height: 273px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLcxM3wbI/AAAAAAAADhg/Mxsylm0h29Y/s320/Picture%2B5.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169234906661298" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louise_Bourgeois">Louise Bourgeois</a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLdmNd3II/AAAAAAAADho/C3JbmgcA7Zg/s1600/Picture%2B6.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 276px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLdmNd3II/AAAAAAAADho/C3JbmgcA7Zg/s320/Picture%2B6.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169249136237698" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://louisamatthiasdottir.com/">Louis Mathiasdottir</a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLuWefBUI/AAAAAAAADhw/cQRjUaToU1A/s1600/Picture%2B7.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 298px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TTDLuWefBUI/AAAAAAAADhw/cQRjUaToU1A/s320/Picture%2B7.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562169536970425666" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.rosemariebeck.org/">Rosemarie Beck</a><br /><br />Particular faves? I'd love to discuss.Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-26396913224136723972011-01-07T19:24:00.003-06:002011-01-07T19:56:35.745-06:00Breathing ColorI lose sleep over color. It's something I've never given much thought but since last semester I eat, breath, and drink color. Sometimes drinking is the only thing that numbs my obsession. It's all my fault. I enrolled in a painting class and now I'm all choked up. I can't drive down the turnpike without noticing the relationship between the cool, unscathed gray of the shoulder contrast with the worn, warmer gray of the traveled lanes. And then! That electric yellow that demarcates! Ok, I'll stop, but as you can seen it's overwhelming. Do you see what I see? Who knows. How do you explain color? What terms can I use?It's so relative and even deeper when you consider perspective.<br /><br />So, all that being (unnecessarily?) said, I spent a lot of time trying to figure out color in my work. Many a critiques with my painting professor and I have yet to scratch the surface. He did reassure me, "I still have not mastered color." I guess it's a lifelong endeavor,a marriage. I wouldn't say any of my pieces were 'successful' but I can see growth.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TSfA3B68cYI/AAAAAAAADgo/Aa-vfi33a-0/s1600/jump.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TSfA3B68cYI/AAAAAAAADgo/Aa-vfi33a-0/s320/jump.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559624316653171074" border="0" /></a>This was one of the first pieces. At the beginning of the semester he gave me some criteria to get me started. I had to do 16 different paintings. Of all the paintings this was my favorite. It became the cornerstone for the rest of the semester. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TSfA3SISonI/AAAAAAAADgw/vbRfFoccquk/s1600/nopassing.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 234px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TSfA3SISonI/AAAAAAAADgw/vbRfFoccquk/s320/nopassing.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559624321004118642" border="0" /></a>I started playing around with using scraps and collaging them together. Like picking up roadkill and 'fixin' it''<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TSfA3yHxT9I/AAAAAAAADg4/G7_FTSQPSlY/s1600/IMG_5267.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TSfA3yHxT9I/AAAAAAAADg4/G7_FTSQPSlY/s320/IMG_5267.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559624329591869394" border="0" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TSfA397-LlI/AAAAAAAADhA/ixilkm_qX5U/s1600/IMG_5269.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TSfA397-LlI/AAAAAAAADhA/ixilkm_qX5U/s320/IMG_5269.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559624332763606610" border="0" /></a>These were a couple of pieces from my last critique. This is where I ended my first semester. What a change? I can't say it's for the better but again-growth/change. My last critique was a bit frightening. I vividly remember him stating, "I was worried in the beginning but I feel better about where you've ended up." EEEEeek! It was quite stressful but very fun. So fun that I've contemplated switching over to painting. But, in the end, I thrive on process and printmaking is it! I will continue to take hours in painting, it's so fluid and natural, gives me a break from the intense processes involved with printing.<br /><br />Believe it or not, I did pass (with flying colors) and I plan to continue with the challenge. If you're close swing by the studio, I'd love to talk color.Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-44985157085469368822011-01-05T14:31:00.007-06:002011-01-05T17:25:52.363-06:002011Hi! Happy New Year!<br /><br />It's been too long. Is anyone out there? Well, if you are, I'm still here. Things have yet to slow down and my camera has been out of commission for the last few months. I finally fixed it and I just renewed my Flickr Pro account. It's time to make up for lost time.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TST6mPez6cI/AAAAAAAADgI/fDn9SSkXJas/s1600/IMG_5281.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TST6mPez6cI/AAAAAAAADgI/fDn9SSkXJas/s320/IMG_5281.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558843374979770818" border="0" /></a> Our first snap in 2011!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TST6ma7AesI/AAAAAAAADgQ/T7LOkr8WkYY/s1600/IMG_5283.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TST6ma7AesI/AAAAAAAADgQ/T7LOkr8WkYY/s320/IMG_5283.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558843378050824898" border="0" /></a><br />New Year-New City-New Photos. Last December I finished up my first semester of graduate school. YAY! I planned on documenting the experience but I haven't conquered time. I finished up two independent study courses, one in painting and one in printmaking and I also completed an advanced lithography class! Litho is fun!<br /><br />I also made some great friends. The other two print grads are something! I look forward to working with them next semester in our 'open print' class. We've already started planning our next move. We had many productive meetings alongside some fun times! Minimal evidence exist and the names have been changed to protect the innocent.<br /><br />More changes. I changed jobs midway through last semester. I'm now working at part-time at the law school. It's not so different, in fact, it took very little adjusting. I really enjoy my coworkers, they are all troopers with terrific attitudes. The first day on the job I ran endless feet of cable with the director. It's a group that's not afraid to work outside of titles and get their hands dirty.<br /><br />Between all the newness that became in 2010 (new city, school, job, friends) it's tough to wave goodbye but I look forward to the mystery. One of my goals is to complete a documentary about rat rods before I finish my grad program. I use the term 'documentary' loosely.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TST6mzKq5LI/AAAAAAAADgY/GYb4P8lj_0I/s1600/DSC_1818.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TST6mzKq5LI/AAAAAAAADgY/GYb4P8lj_0I/s320/DSC_1818.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558843384558970034" border="0" /></a> A rat rod (for wondering minds). Compliments of me friend and former supervisor, Amanda! Her dad has done quite a job on his beast!<br /><br />I want to record the culture be it, feature fill or a collection of<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/nyregion/1-in-8-million/index.html"> slideshows with audio</a>. Thankfully, the spark appealed to one of the other grads and he has been a font of knowledge on making it happen.<br /><br />I would also like to conclude a catalog for my family that focuses on my maternal grandmother. I started a collection of good memories from everyone in the family and I'd like to organize and publish the catalog this year. My grandma has Alzheimer's and needless to say, it has been rough on the family. Some members seek religion but I want to remember her without the disease. I've heard some great stories and learned a lot about her the past few months and I want to shout it out.<br /><br />There are list and list full of 'to do's' for 2011 but I'll spare you. Let's steam forward, rear views wiped clean.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TST8wL9OneI/AAAAAAAADgg/kzjtxKsakbs/s1600/photo.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TST8wL9OneI/AAAAAAAADgg/kzjtxKsakbs/s320/photo.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558845744855555554" border="0" /></a>Pedal to the metal!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-17669553367910235122010-11-03T19:50:00.004-05:002010-11-03T20:07:17.937-05:00HumilityHi! I'd like to scream, "I'm BACK!" but I can't make any promises. Sorry. I'm still toiling away in my studio, I've changed jobs and I feel much more at home. It seems strange that work can make me feel at ease but it does. It feels safe, I have a plan B (which I refuse to accept). Whether I like it or not, I know it helps me sleep at night.<br /><br />Today was an odd day. I met with visiting artist, Ruth Miller (what a lovely woman!) and she really got me thinking. We looked at my work and had a nice chat in my studio. While I was waiting to meet with her my painting professor came in to take a look at my work. He told me I should keep a journal. Write things down, nothing fancy. I told him I had a blog where I used to do a lot of journaling but he suggested something more private. I told him only special people have the URL. HA! He laughed. After Ruth and I visited a bit, she proceeded to tell me I need to keep a diary. Maybe it's just something all artist do but I took it as a sign- I need to pick it up, AGAIN. Write. Write for the sake of sanity.<br /><br />Today after my meeting/critique I had class. I'm sure it was just me, but, people seemed off and edgy. Perhaps I was radiating a negative aura but I just felt like everyone was trying to pick a fight. I started getting paranoid. What have I done? And then, just a downward spiral. I had to break free. I cut and ran, went home, walked Zola and watched the sun set on the city. I had to breath. My first panic attack? Maybe. I think the closer it gets to the end (of the semester) the tighter wound everyone becomes. I guess eventually we'll either kill each other or we'll break down and drink ourselves in a celebratory stupor! I'll take the latter. . .NOW.<br /><br />Anyway, I ramble. I need to read, relax and then write. Last weekend I decided to make an impulsive trip to Norman and I must leave you with a few Halloween photos.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TNIGDRF1IkI/AAAAAAAADfs/QUPrYgIFX0I/s1600/Picture+10.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TNIGDRF1IkI/AAAAAAAADfs/QUPrYgIFX0I/s320/Picture+10.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535493545188991554" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TNIGD4UQgbI/AAAAAAAADf0/Al8Wc2Zahvs/s1600/Picture+5.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TNIGD4UQgbI/AAAAAAAADf0/Al8Wc2Zahvs/s320/Picture+5.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535493555718488498" border="0" /></a>LOOK OUT! It's a Golden Hurricane!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TNIGEVc6DSI/AAAAAAAADf8/ojVQQE9sdeM/s1600/Picture+6.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 210px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TNIGEVc6DSI/AAAAAAAADf8/ojVQQE9sdeM/s320/Picture+6.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535493563539393826" border="0" /></a>Detail: Even heavy machinery doesn't stand a chance. . .<br /><br />Once things calm down (will they) I'll try to post some work and talk a bit about what I've been up to. Right now I'm so scatterbrained that I don't even know what track I'm on. As the end nears I'm hoping to sit down, look at what I've done (or haven't done) and diagnose/remedy. Check back, in, well, awhile. . .Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-50223103552874378952010-09-18T17:18:00.002-05:002010-09-18T17:24:27.783-05:00AustereMonth or so into grad school and still little structure/routine in my life. I've learned to cope. It's getting better, summer has waned but I'm still extremely scatter brained. Ideas are everywhere, seems I can't get it out before another one spawns. Can't complain, but, I could use some organization system. I suppose to I could get back into the habit of filling my sketchbook. Shamefully, it's been awhile since I've crack it. I guess I've discounted it's value. which as cost me a lot. Instead of using the space in the sketchbook I just jump right into the real deal. In conclusion, I cut corners and it usually affects the magnitude of the work. It's similar to a carpenter measuring only once. The difference? I can 'cut twice' with the dip of some gesso and the slide of a brush I can start anew. But, I lack efficiency and my practical side cringes. At any rate, I'm currently taking a break from a long day in the studio. Sitting outside the McFarlin Library and basking in the sun, this is what I'm listening to, seeking inspiration, and perhaps daydreaming a bit:<br /><object height="300" width="400"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=7964109&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=1&color=&fullscreen=1&autoplay=0&loop=0"><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=7964109&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=1&color=&fullscreen=1&autoplay=0&loop=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" height="300" width="400"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/7964109">The Joy Formidable - Austere</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user2736132">TJF Fan</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</p>Hopefully I'll post some new work sooner than later. Right now my camera is out of reach and I have yet to charge the batteries. If you're really interested swing by the studio, bring some coffee. . .Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-10766224010600125522010-09-01T10:08:00.002-05:002010-09-01T10:18:53.256-05:00Sweet SeptemberSeptember is here! Time flies even when you tuck in late and rise early. I don't wish for eternal life, just longer days. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TH5srnvDhMI/AAAAAAAADfk/Jh8a-mA18kI/s1600/Picture+1.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 241px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TH5srnvDhMI/AAAAAAAADfk/Jh8a-mA18kI/s320/Picture+1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511962490604586178" border="0" /></a>I've just started settling in my studio. Last night I was up there working, it's motivating. I can't wait to fill the walls with paintings and prints. I have also started to pick up a routine. After days and several emails, I was finally able to meet with my painting professor. He gave me some beginning assignments, the pressure is on:<br />1 painting about light<br />1 painting about space<br />1 painting about color<br />1 painting about surface/picture plane<br />1 painting about form-forms in the painting and the painting as a form1 panting about textural mark<br />1 painting with pigmented mark (variations on pointillist mark)<br />1 study pre 20th century artist (Titian, El Greco, Courbet, Chardin, Velasquez, Rembrandt, etc)<br />1 study post 20th cebnt. artist (Cezanne, Matisse, Southine, Bonnard, Diebenkorn etc.)<br />1 self-portrait<br />1 tell a story with paint/pigment<br />1 make a painting that is descriptive1 make a painting that is dynamic or aggressive<br />1 make a a painting that is passive<br />1 make a painting utilizing a grid<br /><br />The time line? "About 2 weeks" WOW! really? I feel like I'm a week behind but it does feel good to have some structure.<br /><br />Well, game on, off to paint. I'll keep you posted on my endeavors.Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-4988831445103986272010-08-28T15:45:00.006-05:002010-08-29T11:26:07.106-05:00HomeWell, we're about to kiss August goodbye and I've just started to settle in to my new place. Zola and I rose early and headed over to the farmers market. Second Saturday was a hit. We arrived a little later than last weekend and caught some live music. It was just right outside. The sun was rising and there was a cool breeze. It seems summer is also packing it's things and preparing to hit the road for awhile.<br /><br />I've concluded the first week of graduate school, so far, so good. I'm still in the dark about several things but the path feels right. I have my own studio on campus which will serve as a second bedroom/home-away-from home. I'm ready to get my hands dirty!<br /><br />I also completed a week of work over at the museum. It's a retail job, and part time so it has also been an adjustment. I've found the best remedy is keeping a book within arm's reach. Between work and school, I'm about to lose 'personal time' which means this blog my dwindle to a few post a month. I would like to redirect the post to my graduate work. The process, my thoughts and their derivation along with contemporary studies. It's crucial to delve into the scene and I plan to use this blog as an outlet. Stay tuned for some originals. The studio is primed and ready. In the meantime, some 'iPhone shots' from the beginning of my Tulsa Time:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/THpv4fc_bJI/AAAAAAAADfE/M_FzHKc6uK4/s1600/IMG_0047.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/THpv4fc_bJI/AAAAAAAADfE/M_FzHKc6uK4/s320/IMG_0047.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510840110347676818" border="0" /></a>The birth of Zola. Lazy days with the pooch. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/THpv5Jo_VOI/AAAAAAAADfM/PJxdtq0w10o/s1600/IMG_0049.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/THpv5Jo_VOI/AAAAAAAADfM/PJxdtq0w10o/s320/IMG_0049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510840121672291554" border="0" /></a>A snippet from one of Tulsa's many bike trails. Right now I am without a cycle and I feel disconnected. I tried to buy a trunk mounted rack to haul my bike but I wasn't satisfied. I should have planned better. I am now waiting, impatiently, for someone to deliver my bike to me. It's excruciating. The weather is exceptional and I'm missing out! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/THpv5fczg_I/AAAAAAAADfU/WSZe_zystCU/s1600/IMG_0051.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/THpv5fczg_I/AAAAAAAADfU/WSZe_zystCU/s320/IMG_0051.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510840127526765554" border="0" /></a>Naked ladies everywhere! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/THpv6HglvOI/AAAAAAAADfc/8uW1PxV0YSw/s1600/IMG_0057.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/THpv6HglvOI/AAAAAAAADfc/8uW1PxV0YSw/s320/IMG_0057.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510840138280058082" border="0" /></a>A piece from TU. A final note-words of wisdom.Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-48450621594881919942010-08-19T21:52:00.004-05:002010-08-19T22:28:27.646-05:00OKIE STUDIOSHi! It's been too long. Apologies. Things have been/are hectic. Last night I spent my first night in Tulsa. It's still a bit surreal. I feel like an outsider looking in, starry eyed. Today was graduate student orientation and my first day back to work. I quit my last job August 6th and since then it's been ridiculous. I'm not sure when summer officially ends but I'm called it last weekend. Last weekend was my send off. Four consecutive days dancin', drinkin' and merrimakin' takes it's toll in more ways than one. I'm ready to buckle down. Summer 2010 has been the best. Seriously. Lots of cupcakes. My best friends in Norman at the same time! Sunday nights swingin' to Hosty. Good debates with the guys from OU Law. Summer flings! Fireworks! Professional Photoshoots! My last evening in Norman, I had a photo shoot with Bill Richards of <a href="http://okiestudios.com/website/">Okie Studios</a>. He is one of the terrific bartenders from the Deli and he just shines through the camera! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TG3uRoom6xI/AAAAAAAADes/8-aXe6DCF0A/s1600/bill2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TG3uRoom6xI/AAAAAAAADes/8-aXe6DCF0A/s320/bill2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507319906076912402" border="0" /></a>He is super professional and I was thrilled to work with him! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TG3uRSmlk-I/AAAAAAAADek/TZWobTl1quQ/s1600/bill1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TG3uRSmlk-I/AAAAAAAADek/TZWobTl1quQ/s320/bill1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507319900162855906" border="0" /></a>I don't usually enjoy being photograph. In fact, I didn't even have professional senior photos made. Luckily, I have a completely different attitude than the one that hung over me back then. This shoot was delightful. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TG3uRxXGUgI/AAAAAAAADe0/VahZ_d5aqOg/s1600/bill3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TG3uRxXGUgI/AAAAAAAADe0/VahZ_d5aqOg/s320/bill3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507319908419392002" border="0" /></a>Bill is an amazing artist. His attention to detail and concept development is top notch. He is a whiz with the computer! This was our final take. When I asked him if I needed to bring anything he replied, "bring a smile and anything that screams 'you'" What is more fitting that an chainsaw? "Little Red, Riding Bill!" Out for blood!<br /><br />Did this really happen? How can I top it? How about with intensive graduate work? Believe it or not, I'm a bit homesick. I miss my house a bit. My yard. I need to mow, or do I? I miss my bike (it should be here soon and I can't wait to hit the trails). I miss the Deli and I'm going to miss my crew. Time to establish a new one! <br /><br />Zola and I took a stroll through Maple Park this evening. It's blocks away from my digs and it was at this moment: the sun setting on the Tulsa Skyline (just over the park) with my best buddy, that I knew this was home. I can't wait to start classes Monday. I have lots to do to the apartment. Look forward to photos. I am quite scatterbrained these days (as you can probably tell) so don't hold your breath but it will happen. . .eventually. Since I'm not sitting at a desk eight hours a day (day in-day out) I find little time to blog. I'm hoping that once I establish a routine here in the 918, I'll be better at posting. I look forward to my latest endeavors and I can't wait to share them with you! Farmer's market this weekend (it's walking distance!) and garage sailing. Join me if you're in the neighborhood! Toodles!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-81619478726981789532010-08-04T11:34:00.003-05:002010-08-04T11:46:49.462-05:00My BestIt's August! I can't believe it. So much to do and it's already the 4th! My days in Norman are numbered and I've already got work lined up in Tulsa. I start a part time gig up at the Gilcrease August 19. I can't wait to jump, head first, into the art program but I'm still a but worried about finances. The last few days have been blurry. Since last weekend, I feel as though I'm viewing myself from above. I can't coordinate my body with my mind and it's been fairly rough getting things done. Last weekend was full of activities and drama. Perhaps, that's why I'm feeling odd. I'm trying to repair. Luckily, my three best friends were in tow. I wish they were around more often but as we've grown up, we all have busy schedules and endless responsibilities. We also live in different cities which makes it tough.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TFmYCF4y3jI/AAAAAAAADec/DSEbxZIUUyc/s1600/best.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TFmYCF4y3jI/AAAAAAAADec/DSEbxZIUUyc/s320/best.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501595581517323826" border="0" /></a>JME. Carmen. Me. KC<br /><br />We spent Saturday afternoon/evening together and it was just like old times. I wish they could have hung around longer, it was an emotional and fulfilling weekend but I could use them this week/month. Good friends are hard to find and I'm lucky to have held on to these throughout the years. Many more to come. Love you girls!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-18592295787426155342010-07-30T11:36:00.005-05:002010-07-30T12:11:10.949-05:00Across the PondI wish I were across the pond at this moment, this weekend. I need a break in culture. I have lots of family in from out of town and it's going to be a busy weekend. We've all docked here in Norman to witness my brother take his vows and buckle his shackles. Bottoms up!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TFMAKXNSzAI/AAAAAAAADeU/gjp3AjneFxY/s1600/BjZorn.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 141px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TFMAKXNSzAI/AAAAAAAADeU/gjp3AjneFxY/s320/BjZorn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499739747977972738" border="0" /></a>While we're on the subject of bottles, I created this design for an t-shirt contest. Check out the details <a href="http://www.gossmichaelfoundation.org/blog/2010-t-shirt-contest/">here</a>. I had several ideas but this is the one that came to life digitally. It would be nice to have my work printed and marketed but I just like opportunities to design and fool around with CS4.<br /><br />It's going to be a busy weekend. I'll be out of pocket most of August. Moving, adjusting and playing. Consider my absense a sign of living. I'll be posting sporadically but if you're really interested and it's convienent, meet me face to face. I'm planing to submerge myself in art. A life of Asceticism. While I may not physically be 'across the pond' I'll be way beyond that in my studies for the next three years. With one more week of work, things are starting to sting with reality. I'd like to see you and yours, this weekend?Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-4637745034870523822010-07-28T15:00:00.004-05:002010-07-28T15:10:00.025-05:00Amish Friendship BreadTen days ago I was sitting at my desk, starving, wishing I had grabbed that banana from the fruit basket. Low and behold, one of my coworkers came in with a hearty, loaf of Amish Friendship bread. Much to my surprise, there was a catch. In order to partake, I had to agree to take the 'starter bag' and follow the prescribed instructions. Yesterday marked the baking day. If you haven't heard or tasted Amish Friendship bread, I highly suggest seeking out an avenue for a starter bag. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TFCMjtjCmeI/AAAAAAAADeE/Cc_AqftAowc/s1600/IMG_5188.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TFCMjtjCmeI/AAAAAAAADeE/Cc_AqftAowc/s320/IMG_5188.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499049690169252322" border="0" /></a>Rumor has it, only the Amish know how to create a starter bag but I'm sure if you really want to crash the party you could just google it (damn technology). It's a yeast bread so there's a process and division to keep the cycle churning and cranking out loaves. I like to think the yeast in my bread was created from yeast that has traveled many years and through exotic destinations. So romantic. This morning, I hit the unfortunate 'bagels for the office' day so the bread was left untouched. I decided to cut pieces and take it to the various offices around the Law School. Everyone took it without hesitation and responded positively. Smiles and friendship, I felt I had done the bread and the Amish right. Success!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-39239019916265186672010-07-27T15:47:00.007-05:002010-07-27T16:00:29.742-05:00WisdomDid you know the owl symbolizes wisdom and prosperity (at least in some cultures)? I wasn't aware of this until I began my work at the Law School. The Owl adorns the Law School seal and is a well known icon around these parts. Earlier this month, I was approached by our wonderful recruiter asking for a commission before my resignation. I obliged and tried to take the 'green approach' by pedaling some of my stock but she requested a new piece. Specifically, an owl. I love birds! And, I was excited to get the work. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE9Fz6b3B0I/AAAAAAAADd8/j6KAIQVCVNc/s1600/IMG_5183.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE9Fz6b3B0I/AAAAAAAADd8/j6KAIQVCVNc/s320/IMG_5183.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498690428204418882" border="0" /></a>This is quite a bit different than most of the pieces that fill her office but hopefully she can appreciate it. She's out this week so I left it as surprise on her desk. It's a custom piece! She didn't include a price range so I decided to keep the piece small and on the light side of labor, just in case. Better safe than sorry? I already have a studio full of labor intensive/expensive pieces that I just can't pawn off. I've learned that scale is essential during hard times.<br /><br />The piece includes paint, hand embroidery and an image transfer on some drapery material. Fingers crossed that I've struck (real) gold. This piece is 4x6". If you're interested in something similar or would like to commission a piece drop me a line!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-67503780522899005772010-07-27T15:27:00.003-05:002010-07-27T15:46:51.217-05:00Three ClicksClick your heels three times and you're home. I've been thinking a lot about 'home.' I wish I didn't have to leave my home/house. I've spent years collecting pieces and making it a place screams, 'Bill.' Now I'm uprooting. I wish I could take it with me. Precisely, "IT." What makes a house a home? The age old question, just like "How many licks. . ." Anyway, I ramble. But, really, I'm anxious. I can't sit still. I have been riding quite a bit and I've discovered one of my favorite streets in Norman. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE9BbvJ_P1I/AAAAAAAADd0/9eWyofdTeg0/s1600/IMG_5179.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE9BbvJ_P1I/AAAAAAAADd0/9eWyofdTeg0/s320/IMG_5179.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498685614813298514" border="0" /></a>McNamee Street- beautiful towering trees with specks of diamonds strewn across the street. It's like something out of a movie. Miles from my house, it isn't exactly my neighborhood, but every time I pedal down it I hear birds chirp, laughter and everything that sings 'perfection.' I feel at home. I could stay forever. The houses are compromised of remodeled craftsman and well kept dollhouses. They are adorable. McNamee is something you'd find in a storybook. The best part is, it's very maintained and vintage but lacks that "snobby, yuppie tarnish." McNamee made me realize that it is possible to encounter 'home away from home.' Let's just hope there's a piece for me up in Tulsa.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE9Ba3HmH8I/AAAAAAAADds/K9RhdyNhg0Y/s1600/IMG_5186.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE9Ba3HmH8I/AAAAAAAADds/K9RhdyNhg0Y/s320/IMG_5186.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498685599770877890" border="0" /></a> I decided that I'd try to sketch as many of the houses down McNamee and send them to the addresses. Maybe a little bit creepy but more a gesture of my gratitude and admiration for the integrity of history. There's a real feel of community down that stretch of street between flood and berry and I want to document it, give it back. Here's to home!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584815709641260188.post-41745912207774340862010-07-26T15:42:00.004-05:002010-07-26T15:52:28.898-05:00THAT GirlNo one wants to be 'THAT girl,' but occasionally, we just have to learn to cope. For me, it's self inflicted. I bought and iPhone. Right before bouncing into graduate school, having next-to-nothing to live on and I go and follow the herd. The phone has it's conveniences but the first thing I did is switch off every extra. There's just something about being over connected. I don't like it. I want to look at people in the face. I don't like side text conversations and I don't like to think some "app" is more fun than me! Really? YES! Look at me when I'm speaking, I do the same for you! Anyway, I rant. But, I did have some fun stenciling the case.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE30rWCl_dI/AAAAAAAADdc/mTOqepaL2wM/s1600/IMG_5178.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE30rWCl_dI/AAAAAAAADdc/mTOqepaL2wM/s320/IMG_5178.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498319745577254354" border="0" /></a> It's not the most practical thing considering mere minutes after the paint job it was chipping. I touched it up and coated it with an acrylic varnish. That did the trick. I would really like to have on of these <a href="http://www.miniot.com/miniot/iphone.htm">fancies</a>. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE31P79_CeI/AAAAAAAADdk/RsXjsmFhYZ8/s1600/iphone_home_walnut.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 204px; height: 291px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yFrBKn41Lu0/TE31P79_CeI/AAAAAAAADdk/RsXjsmFhYZ8/s320/iphone_home_walnut.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498320374233762274" border="0" /></a>A parting/welcome gift as I jump into my new life? Maybe. I'd settle for something a little more valuable with a creative touch. Think about it. We could trade. Now, back to your iPhone. Just remember that your friends are better than a data plan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">anyday</span>!Bill the Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16555081069467699897noreply@blogger.com0