Months ago, I contacted a fellow artist and inquired if he would be willing to give a small workshop on “Mark Making Tools.” He’s always making tools; mostly Book Arts tools, like hand carved bone folders made in bamboo or teflon, or a lovely paper tearing tool. But he also makes Bench Hooks, Hole Punching Cradles and Corner Cutters… …
Patience is the most important thing when dealing with anything “new.” And being patient is especially important when art journaling. I say this because the final image slowly reveals itself… first going one way, then another… sometimes resting with nowhere to go for a while… then finding a new path. For those of you unfamiliar with the …
All of us have something to give. A nugget. A kernel. A seed. Some knowledge, talent or ability that we can share with others either in the hope of passing along our passion or igniting their own. For me, my nugget is ART, specifically Printing and Art Journaling. My joy has often been awakened by the teachings …
My favorite new thing… short, one day workshops… especially suited for experienced art journalers. These give participants an opportunity to create while working side-by-side, sharing in a favorite creative art-making activity, inspiring one another and having fun! And that is exactly what we did when Kelly Kilmer came to town for a one day mini-workshop. Kelly is …
We’ve gone virtual! 2015 has been a year of immense change and growth here at Nancy Walter Printmaker. And a huge part of that is adding to the ways that we can get our artwork into your hands. I’ve been fortunate enough to partner with an AMAZING network of reps that work tirelessly to distribute my …
I wanted to post this message I recently received from a dear friend of mine in response to the news that I was selected for the Convergence Residency in Morocco. Dan O’Neill is an old friend; we’ve known each other since we were kids in Canada and have been close friends since 1990. He teaches printmaking …
Sometimes days go by and I haven’t had the time to sit down to make something. I feel bad, guilty and wonder why. Especially after I clear the workspace and start on a project, image or journal page. Because once I start, and push past the resistance, and discomfort of having been away for image …
The other night, I went to hear Peter Bolland at the Encinitas Branch of the San Diego Public Library. It was a free concert in a beautiful room, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in what some say is the nicest library in the county. Peter is a wonderful songwriter. His words are inspiring, deep and bring emotions to …
Many years ago I learned about Soul Collage and eventually took the training to become a facilitator. I love the process, but I don’t have a calling to teach it. Taking a class however, is loads of fun. A wonderful art therapist, Ellen Speert lives nearby. She created The Center for Creative Renewal. She teaches a process …
Everything is bigger in Texas… the music, the food… the bookstores. Over the years I’ve been lucky enough to travel to some amazing places, but nowhere is quite like Austin, Texas. Its inability to be contained in a little box, with easy descriptors is emblematic of not only its location in the state, but the …
This past year I was fortunate enough to study with several wonderful teachers that I had only dreamed of learning from. Each meeting has brought such a rich plate of experience. I am fortunate! One such opportunity was to take two workshops with Seth Apter, a phenomenal artist from New York. One of these workshops, which was entitled …
When I first moved to New York city back in the early 80’s I roomed with a friend who introduced me to Brian Eno’s Brian Eno—Music for Airports. I was instantly hooked. This was way before “ambient” music, when all the sounds were created, no doubt, on some electronic device… and hence labeled “electronic music.” …
The slideshow above chronicles a few of the steps in creating this completed art journal page. (I get so focused that stopping to take progress photos can be somewhat challenging for me…) Although I do tend to work in pristine, store-bought journals, I began this particular journal with a book from the “Free Rack” at the …
Things take time. As an artist the most important thing, is practice. Actually, practice is probably the most important thing in ANY discipline. If you practice anything regularly it begins to somehow feel effortless. It starts to give energy rather than take it. I recently saw a documentary on Richard Pryor, who is probably one …
Nestled in the hills of Mill Valley, CA, overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll find Buddha at rest, offering peace and tranquility to all who come and go, no matter how long their stay… As you may know, I have been fortunate enough over the last couple of years to display my artwork (both originals …
… busy at work in my studio. I am not sure why I love layering, overlapping patterns, fluorescent pink & orange, the look of decay, aged torn paper or anything with a patina. I am not sure why I am drawn to anything that looks old, faded or crumbling… My best friend Tim and I always laugh …
I’ve recently discussed the notion of being open to change and new opportunities — as well as patience and timing. Well, the time for GOOD and EXCITING and REWARDING opportunity has come! I have been selected for a 4-week artist in residency program in Morocco in February 2016 with Green Olive Arts. (It’s hard not to write this with …
The San Diego Book Arts (SDBA) recently welcomed back Seth Apter for two two-day workshops in San Diego. I attended the first workshop, “Cover to Cover,” which was held September 16 & 17, 2015. This workshop was about using mixed-media techniques to create a one-of-a-kind, unconventional artist’s book. Using vintage book covers as the base, and making a series of double-sided “pages” filled edge …
Honestly, it doesn’t matter if you have a great recipe, or know how to sing well… if you have something to share with someone, or the world… share it!!! I spent several days sharing my love of Gelli printing with many folks who had neither heard of the process or seen the results. Let’s just …
UPDATE: WORKSHOP FILLED! Brontë, Dickens, Frost… and you! Have some old books collecting dust? Then join me for a hands-on introduction to art journaling and book altering with mixed media artist, illustrator and maker of beautiful things Roxanne Coble, aka By Bun. This class will provide you with fun and diverse techniques for transforming your …
There are thousands of ways to assemble handmade books. I recently spent the day with more than a dozen artists learning a few new structures. Three in fact. We were so busy that the day quickly passed us by. We hardly had time to finish one book, let alone start two others! I can’t wait to …
Jean Michel Basquiat is one of my favorite painters. His work is loose, playful and inventive. On the other hand, it seems to me as though everything I do gets tight and serious really fast, and finds its way to being too “realistic,” which I find… boring! This is probably why I have developed this deep …
I am a member of the San Diego Book Arts (SDBA). The group is made up of about 150 artists who are involved to varying degrees in book arts. I decided to get involved with this particular group because it’s so active… They host so many wonderful workshops lead by brilliant teachers. Most of the workshops are …
Bringing this up is going to ruffle some feathers. But are all artists “Hoarders?” I’m curious! Last weekend while dropping off some art supplies for a big garage sale/bake sale fundraiser for the San Diego Book Arts I experienced something that peaked my curiosity. Several of my friends were gathered… unpacking bags and boxes filled …
As a member of the San Diego Book Arts this is a question I hear often and the answer is quite broad. Most folks think of book arts as hand made book structures, with front and back covers and interior pages, made much like the books we read or journal in. But book arts is …
It takes a village! And let’s just say, this has certainly been the case when developing my Etsy store. I have wanted a shop of my own since I was knee high to a grasshopper! Every time I would clean out the house and find treasures (of which I have MANY), I’d be chagrined that …
Although this may appear to just be scraps, paint, glue, napkins, xeroxes, and paint pens, and in reality that’s all it is, there is something else going on here. Call it what you will, but I call it Divine Intervention. Creativity is still a mystery to me even after all these years. I’ve been making images …
If you like to wait until the last minute, wait no more… Sign-up today for Art Groove Summer Camp! AUGUST 21–27, 2015 Art Groove: Summer Adult Art Camp CAMP DE BENNEVILLE PINES 41750 JENKS LAKE RD. WEST, ANGELUS OAKS, CA 92305 COST: $995 Includes instruction, workshops, materials, food, lodging and all standard activities available at …
Hear ye! Hear ye! (Excuse me, I’ve always wanted to say that before making an announcement.) We recently added several new products to our catalog, and I am excited to say that they are doing really well. Our reps at Gifts of Nature have been busy at the Los Angeles show and their efforts are paying …
Grace… Deepak says that the state of Grace comes from being in Gratitude, and meditation is a great way to reach (and stay in) this mindset. The folks at The Chopra Center offer FREE 21-day meditation challenges several times throughout the year, and luckily there’s one going on right now! (This is just one more …
Depends on how you look at things! As adults we understand that nothing remains the same and that things are always changing. Yet as soon as we get comfortable (complacent, laissez-faire) inevitably something shakes us and slaps us across the face. It’s as if the Universe is saying “WAKE UP things are about to change.” …
Art Groove: Summer Adult Art Camp AUGUST 21–27, 2015 CAMP DE BENNEVILLE PINES 41750 JENKS LAKE RD. WEST, ANGELUS OAKS, CA 92305-9789 COST: $945 ($995 AFTER MAY 31, 2015) Includes instruction, workshops, materials, food, lodging and all standard activities available at de Benneville Pines. Each camper will choose an area of study; drawing, painting, photography, …
It’s the little things that make one’s life interesting and worth living! Depending on the day, joy comes from different events. Snuggling with my dogs, listening to the rain, walking on a beautiful trail, Gelli printing with friends… or laying in bed watching a movie! Sometimes it’s the little things that others do. A sign …
I LOVE Pinterest. I have two accounts, and pin almost daily. I was an early adopter. I encouraged my friends to pin. I love it because it doesn’t take up any space in my life yet I have catalogs of amazing, inspiring images, recipes and words of encouragement when I need them. And best of …
Keep it simple: Start with a large sheet of Bristol board. Basic primary color acrylic paints, no bushes choosing to mix and apply paint with your hands. Paint a ground. (background) Notice if anything is calling for your attention. Grab a section. (outline area) Look at the whole and remove what you don’t like. Paint …
We rolled down the car windows, inhaling the crisp scent of the woods and pines… Last weekend, my friends Greg and Jean, and I headed up to Camp de Benneville Pines to scope out the location and classrooms where we’ll be teaching for Art Groove, an art camp for adults. We also wanted to connect …
Have you ever been to Idyllwild? Many folks I talk to in San Diego have not, despite the fact that this breathtaking town is only a short drive away. It’s one of my favorite spots in SoCal; I’ve been coming on and off for years now. If you follow me on social media, you may …
Raw, open and expressive are the qualities that both describe the artist and his art. Intuitive painting, using the most basic essential tools which include red, blue, yellow, black and white acrylic paint, four brushes, four pastel sticks and a pencil, oh and Bristol board.
It’s what’s inside that matters not the materials. Jesse Reno teaches us to see in a new way…
Sign up for his next workshop. Better be quick He’s a rising star.
If you believe in a Universal Intelligence. If you believe in God. If you believe in possibility. Be reminded of this… anything is possible and you can make it happen! Focus, stay positive and allow yourself to be guided. Then wait for the magic and be ready for the unexpected! You are powerful beyond measure.
Sun, surf, sand and lots of tacos… who wouldn’t want to call San Diego home? For over 20 years, I’ve been fortunate to live in a place where it’s not totally unreasonable to wear shorts and sandals in December (don’t hate me). After growing up in Quebec, Canada and starting my career in New York …
Some days you just have to sit down and get it done! A few weeks ago, I spent a good part of Saturday with my new BFF Deanna SCANNING! Yes, scanning. She has this great, super fast scanner. So we decided to put it to the test and scan 568 of my Gelli prints. The …
Progress takes time. Whether you are coming up with new ideas or figuring out what comes next—time for quiet and contemplation are required. Over the last several months, I’ve been busy working on new designs and products. This endeavor has been exhausting and revealing, not to mention FUN! But now it’s time to put my energy in …
It is late spring. The birds are busy with babies, the plants are blooming… and the studio is buzzing with renewed energy and big plans. We are developing new products, getting new cards printed, creating a line of several different types of goodies. We have deadlines with shows coming up. We recently changed our work schedules …
We are so happy to finally have these little gems to sell, give as gifts or just admire! I know I shouldn’t brag…. but these new Chakra Ladders are so cute, I’m grinning ear to ear! I cannot wait to start offering them to our reps or gifting them to my dear, dear friends (you …
I’ve moved around and traveled a bunch, so I have friends, family and connections in many places. I miss these folks! These relationships are filled with memories, rich histories and lots of laughs… I love the variety of gifts each relationship offers. Since everyone is scattered, staying in touch is important (and sometimes difficult). The …
I’m ecstatic to share with you a project I’ve been working on for the last few months. They’re 5X7 wood panels that feature some of my more popular artwork, along with some new motifs. Currently there are 12 designs available, with additional panels exclusive to the Chopra Center, and I’m hoping to add more in the …
A new car equals a new adventure… So this past Sunday, my partner Michael and I set off to check out his new ride. With our busy schedules we couldn’t go very far, so we headed down the coast to Ocean Beach. “OB” is San Diego’s equivalent to Venice Beach in Los Angeles. Time seems to …
Interested in my artwork, but don’t know where to find it? Check out this new feature I just added to the store locator page that makes it super easy to find the store closest to you. All you have to do is put in your zip code and Google maps does the rest! At present, most of …
Is it August yet? I’m like a kid anticipating the final bell on the last day of classes; I can’t wait for it to be summer! It’s not because of the longer days and warmer weather (although those do sound nice), but because I’m going to Art Camp at Camp de Benneville Pines for a …
Many activities go into feeding the creative idea pool. One of my favorite ways of doing this is taking little field trips to recharge the juices, introduce new ideas, discover hidden parts of the city and take the time to absorb the odd things one can come across during these outings. Couple this idea with …
Every artist has a few other artists that not only inspire them, but guide and influence their work, whether in major or minor ways. At the top of my list is Jean-Michel Basquiat. My attraction to his work, aside from the beauty of his raw aesthetic, is the honesty and purity of his expression. As far …
Over the past several months, I’ve been learning about and experimenting with art journaling. My teacher Pnina Gold recently urged me to sign-up for a two-day workshop with Art Journaler extraordinaire Orly Avineri to expand my technique and perspective. Twelve of us, including Orly, attended the workshop, which took place this past weekend at the beautiful home …
Photo: www.examiner.com This summer, from August 22st though August 26th, I’ll be immersing myself in art along with 50-70 other artists. It’s Art Camp for grown-ups! Although the schedule hasn’t been cemented, and the brochure and website aren’t yet produced… it’s happening. The morning hours will be filled with painting, printmaking, drawing, ceramics, or photography. …
Experimenting, trying new things, working with different materials and pushing boundaries… is exciting and FUN. As you might know if you’ve been following my blog, I’ve recently fallen in love with art journalling. So, it should come as no big surprise that I’ve now made the leap from making pages to testing the techniques on …
Something is happening. Something is breaking open. Something is being born. Art journaling is the new therapy… and much like meeting with a licensed professional, it’s all a process. Sometimes scary, sometimes frustrating, but always worthwhile. What is art journaling? It’s an intuitive creative exercise that allows spontaneous self expression with no end in mind. …
Mercury goes retrograde three to four times a year for weeks at a time. This last one was a doozie. It causes indecision, doubt and oh so many computer issues—communication of any type, is always tested. For me, this retrograde was internal. It was like an internal battle or argument… all happening in my head. …
Discarding things that have outlived their usefulness shifts the energy and calls in the new. So in honor of the New Year and our New Mantra, “Just Breathe,” we’re doing just that — making space, throwing out, re-organizing, making sense of the chaos and focusing on the important things. It’ll take the form of recycling, trashing …
