“Spring Rain” by Lynne Gilliatt, 18″x16x1/2″, Gouache on Fabriano paper.
BWS Meeting: February 10
The February meeting of the Bloomington Watercolor Society is Monday, February 10th at 6 p.m. at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. Details will be sent to the membership via email. A brief business meeting will open the meeting. Sarah Steffey McQueen will lead the program.
February’s Program: Signature Member Sara Steffey McQueen is going to share her recipes for making ink from locally available plants and other materials. Sara. after 50 years of being an herbalist and naturalist, is on the Board of Artists of Climate Awareness and is excited to share her passions as well as home-made inks which we can try out.
Participants need to bring your own brushes, paper and/or sketchbook. A variety of inks will be provided.
Inside BWS
From the desk of BWS President Laura Brown:
Hello painters! The ice is finally melting so we are ready to get back to our regular schedule!
Our February Meeting is Monday February 10th at 6pm. Keep a look out for the meeting reminder with further details. Sara Steffy McQueen will lead us in an exciting program about natural inks.
Don’t forget our membership show. “We Paint….Dali & Degas” at Gallery Mortgage. Drop off is February 4th from 10-noon. The Show will be ready for our Opening Reception February 7th from 5:00-8:00pm.
Executive Board Call Out!
Do you want to be more involved in BWS? Do you have a specialty with leadership, writing, or numbers? Good news because BWS needs YOU!
Be the first in line to lead and shape the story that is BWS. Did you know that every year BWS has five key members that make everything we do possible? President, Vice President,Treasurer, Membership Coordinator and Secretary; each of these volunteer positions can be a great fulfilling experience for those that want to take the shaping of BWS a little bit further.
Not ready for the executive board, but still want to help? There are many other volunteers needed throughout the year. Please let us know what your talents are, and we’ll always have something you can do!
We Paint….2-D: Dali & Degas!!
The BWS Winter Benefit Show Opening Reception FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Gallery Walk 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Awards announced at 6:00
Melting clocks and dancing ballerinas. Surrealism meets Impressionism. And BWS artist members have created a very interesting blend for your viewing pleasure.
We are pleased to announce that the exhibit will also showcase works by the 2024 BWS Art Scholarship winner, Seongwon “Sarah” Park. Her art is bright, youthful, and very well done. Sarah is an outstanding artist currently studying communication design and marketing at Washington University in St. Louis.
Remember, too, this winter benefit show supports the good works of Teachers Warehouse (TW), an organization that supplies FREE classroom supplies to educators in nine counties! All sales of fine art, greeting cards and prints share 50% between the artist and TW.
Watch for news about the video tour and online gallery opening FEBRUARY 8!
Cancer Support Center: Linda Meyer-Wright Retrospective
The Opening Reception for the Linda Meyer-Wright Retrospective show was a great success!. Several framed and many unframed paintings from her estate were sold, raising over $300 for the Cancer Support Community art programs!
WSI Regional Membership Exhibit at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. Limited to the first 50 from WSI members. The show opens April 16th and runs through May 31st.
WSI Annual Membership Exhibition at The Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis. Any WSI member may submit one watercolor to this show – not juried. The show opens May 10th and runs through June 14th.
WSI Annual Membership Luncheon and Special Event at the 2nd Presbyterian Church on North Meridian in Indianapolis. June 28th from 12:00 – 2:00.
“The Architecture of Light” workshop with Thomas Schaller, AWS, NWS, TWSA, at the 2nd Presbyterian Church on North Meridian in Indianapolis. August 6th through August 8th.
43rd Annual Juried Exhibit at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields in Indianapolis. This show opens September 6th and runs through November 1st. This is a juried show with a prize fund setimated to be around $10,000 open to WSI members.
Beginning Watercolor Class with Anna Roberts, CF, and Cheryl Lowe, CF, at the Jewish Community Center in Indianapolis on September 21st. This class is for adults only and is open to the public.
“Painting a Figure From a Photo” workshop with Ted Nuttall, AWS, NWS, TWSA, at the 2nd Presbyterian Church on north Meridian in Indianapolis. October 14th through October 17th.
Details, entry instructions, etc on thee events are available on the WSI website. Note that Class and Workshops may have limitations on the number of attendees.
Upland Plein Air — Silverpoint Workshop
In late January, members of the Upland Plein Air group participated in a mini workshop, exploring the silverpoint medium. Upland is an offshoot of the Bloomington Watercolor Society, and the groups share many members in common.
The graphite pencil was introduced in 1565. Previously, artists drew with charcoal, ink, colored clay and metal wire in a stylus. For the latter, they used lead, copper and gold, but arguably their favorite metal was silver. Many drawings by Leonardo, Raphael, Dürer and other old masters that look like pencil are, in fact, silverpoint. Because graphite is erasable, it quickly displaced metal. Beginning with the pre-Raphaelites in the mid 1800s, there has been a revival of silverpoint. Contemporary artists are pushing the boundaries of the medium, using it in exciting new ways.
Silverpoint is an extremely responsive medium that produces images of great delicacy. It requires a surface prepared with a ground that has an abrasive. Pulling a piece of silver wire over this ground leaves a mark. Many drawing techniques used with mediums like charcoal, chalk and graphite, translate, but there is one major difference. With those mediums, if you want a darker tone, you simply press harder. Pressing hard with silverpoint risks gouging into the ground. Instead, to get darker values, you draw many lines, over and over. This makes silverpoint primarily a hatching medium.
BWS and Upland member Claude Cookman led the group in getting familiar with the medium and drawing a still life.
Andy Roberts and Barbara Coffman work on preparatory studies before drawing their still life in silverpoint.
Kitty Garlock chose a sea shell as the motif for her silverpoint still life.
Claude Cookman • Pears • Silverpoint • 5 x 7 inches • 2025
Upland’s Plein Air Show at Lennie’s
Barbara Coffman reports: We had a wonderful selection of paintings/drawings delivered to Lennie’s for the first round of our show in January. The reception was crowded, and four paintings have been sold. I stopped by recently, and both the owner and manager told me that they had heard many positive comments about our work from customers. Kudos to all our talented Upland members!
Lennie’s has invited Upland to extend the show through March.
New drop off date for the second half of the show is Tuesday, February 11, 3:00-5:00 pm.
New reception date is Thursday, February 13, 5:00-7:00 pm.
Membership News
Tim Lewis. My solo show, “Radical Reality,” at the Jewish Community Center Art Gallery in Indianapolis runs through February 22nd and is open to the public during normal business hours. I have 37 of my favorite watercolors in this show.
Gail Fairfield. I am teaching an “Astrology & Alcohol Ink” workshop at Second Story Studio in Nashville, on February 22, 1-3 PM.
Phyllis Taylor, who is a member afar: Phyllis Taylor has two large watercolors selected for an exhibition entitled, “Lost in Blue”; the show opens Feb. 7th at the Cannon Beach (OR) Arts Association Gallery and runs for a month.
Tricia Wente, who is another voice we miss from afar: I have been fine, continuing to stay busy with painting, and raising a new puppy. Several commissions in acrylics were recently completed and I have offered watercolor horse portraits in auctions this past year for people supporting our granddaughter Naomi’s Benton County rodeo queen duties.
This coming year, she will be the Canby Fair & Rodeo Queen. Her coronation is this March. We never would have thought she would become so interested in riding and competing, but that’s what has happened. It keeps us running.
I continue to show regularly in the Elsinore Gallery in Salem, OR., and I paint weekly with a few artists working in watercolors to socialize and keep the brushes wet.
I miss everyone. When I read Brushstrokes I get homesick for B-ton. It is hard being so far away.
Calendar
Now to February 22: Tim Lewis’ Show at Jewish Community Ctr in Indianapolis.
Now to April: Linda Meyer-Wright’s Retrospective Show, Cancer Support Center, Bloomington.
February 4: Drop-off, “We Paint….2D: Dali & Degas” paintings at Gallery Mortgage, Bgtn.
February 7: Reception, “We Paint….2D: Dali & Degas” Show, 5-7 p.m., Gallery Montgage, Btgm.
February 10: BWS Meeting at First Christian Church, 6-8 p.m., Bloomington.
February 13: Reception for Upland Plein Air’s Show at Lennie’s, Bloomington.
February 22: Gail Fairfield’s “Astrology & Alcohol Ink” Workshop, 1-3 p.m., 2nd Story Studio.
“Fog Rising” by Jacki Frey. People’s Choice Award , 2024 BWS Membership Show
First Meeting of the Year and Program JOURNEY THROUGH SKETCHBOOKS
Welcome to 2025!
We are kicking off the year with our first meeting Monday, January 13th at 6 p.m. at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. Details will be sent in the membership email per usual. A brief business meeting will open the meeting.
BWS Vice President Jeanne Dutton will have a short demo on how to print and package cards. This is very useful info for those selling or interested in selling cards.
The evening’s program will be:
Journey through Sketchbooks! Hosted by BWS’s President Laura Brown
BRING A USED SKETCHBOOK IF YOU HAVE ONE FOR A BRIEF SHOW AND SHARE!
What to expect:
I will go over my former resistance to sketchbooks and then my acceptance which lead me to something I always desired: My own fulfilling art practice!
Have many sketchbooks? Never had one? Feel like you can’t ever fill one? This program is for everyone!
With each sketchbook adventure I will focus on two main points….
1. What was my “plan” for my sketchbook? (And it’s ok to not have one!)
And
2. Where are things going? (Or where did they end up? It’s all about embracing what happens through doing!).
I am encouraging members to bring their own and share the answers to these two questions above.
I’m planning on having a handout that includes materials, resources, and any other special notations that may be of use.
Inside BWS
BWS Holiday Party Recap
Thank you to all that attended the BWS Holiday Party at The Farm. It was truly a night to remember with savory food and drink and plenty of socializing. Members exchanged hand painted cards, door prizes were handed out, and 15$ per ticket was donated to our scholarship fund!
Photos compliments of Laura Brown
UPCOMING GALLERY SHOW For Teacher’s Warehouse at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage
“We Paint…2-D: Dali and Degas”
IMPORTANT DATES: Images Due: February 1 (see below) Drop Off: Tuesday, February 4 Pick Up: Monday, March 31
Online Gallery: Once again, BWS will exhibit online as a SmugMug gallery. This gallery will be accessible from the BWS website (and others, as possible). Please submit your scanned or photographed artwork to Jeanne Dutton at Teachers@BloomingtonWatercolor.org by FEBRUARY 1.
Linda was an original BWS Signature Member and a popular teacher who influenced a long list of student artists. She was extremely creative and prolific in many mediums, but this exhibit features primarily watercolors! Her art is reflective of her humor and wit and her very vivid imagination, making it a fun and happy show.
Hosted by her sister Joanie Meyer, it will feature 32 large, professionally framed works of art. These paintings have not been recently displayed, prior to this exhibit. You will also have the opportunity to purchase smaller, unframed paintings from her studio. All artwork is offered at very reasonable prices.
Please join Joanie and friends at the reception on Friday, January 24 – Linda’s birthday. There will be cake!!
Opening Reception Friday, January 24 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Cancer Support Community 1719 W 3rd Street Bloomington, Indiana 47408
In addition: Stephanie Shelton from the Cancer Support Community announces a call out for BWS artists to sign up to have a show at the CSC Gallery. “We are in need of people to sign up as the gallery is unscheduled past February. Solo or group shows with BWS friends are welcome! Please contact her at Stephanie@cancersupportscin.org to sign up for a show! 30% of all sales go to helping art programming for those using CSC services, a great collaboration and way for us to show art AND give back to the community.
Outside BWS
Upland Plein Air Membership Show
Upland Plein Air is having its 2025 Membership Show at Lennie’s Brew Pub, 514 E. Kirkwood Ave. The show will run from January 7th to February 28th. BWS Members are invited to attend. The Opening Reception is January 7th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Friends of Artists for Climate Awareness
Welcome to 2025, with all its challenges and hopes. Artists for Climate Awareness look forward to another year of growing environmental awareness through art. As such, Carol Rhodes writes, “we are excited to invite members to their upcoming general meeting via Zoom on Tuesday, January 7, at 7 p.m. Eastern Time (US).”
Featured at This Month’s Meeting: Environmental Art Poster Collection
After a short business meeting, new member Ralph Yehle from Minneapolis will show portions of his beautiful collection of 90 environmental posters.
See the posters and learn what inspired him to collect these treasures, how long he has been collecting them, how he finds them, and the plans he has for them.
When I asked Barbara Coffman what the Portrait Group had been up to, she wrote to say, “Chuck Christoph recently modeled for our group. Chuck has a life-long love of American history, with a special interest in the Civil War. In addition to reading extensively about that conflict, Chuck travels to Civil War battlefields to attend living history events. For our session, he wore a Union cap and cavalryman’s coat.”
In order: Arkady Roytman – oil; Sandi Cook – oil; Claude Cookman – conte’; Ann Woods – pen and ink
WSI Regional Membership Exhibit
The Watercolor Society of Indiana has been invited by Hendricks Live! for an exhibition at the Event Center (200 W. Main Street, Plainfield, IN) running April 16 to May 31. This opportunity is a “WSI Regional Exhibit” for WSI Members. Each participant may display one ready to hang painting. All participants must register through The Watercolor Society of Indiana. Registration is open to the first 50 artists that register. Deliver paintings directly to Hendricks Live between 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
Hendricks Live by Tim Lewis
Membership News
Stephen Edwards. My painting titled “Once Upon a Time There Was a Boy Who Loved Trains” has been accepted into the 158thAnnual American Watercolor Society International Exhibition.
The Exhibition will be held April 7 – 25, 2025, at the Salmagundi Club in NYC. There will be an opening reception on Tuesday, April 8th from 6-8 pm, and a Watercolor Evening demonstration by Thomas Schaller, AWS, on Thursday, April 24th at 6 pm.
Over 1000 paintings entered and only 150 accepted makes this just that much more an honor. I am very thankful to Iain Stewart, Thomas Schaller, Michael Holter and Dot Ganek for choosing my work.
On a side note: Still searching for a home in the Bloomington area. Every time I find one, I can utilize as a home/studio it sells before I can even look at it. Hopefully, I’ll be closer to the group in 2025.
“Once Upon a Time There Was a Boy Who Loved Trains” by Stephen Edwards.
Tim Lewis. I completed two commissioned trompe l’oeil style watercolors for the Shelby County Players’ new theater in Shelbyville. These will be enlarged, printed on vinyl and adhered to two walls in the new theater. They depict two historic theaters in Shelbyville.
“Alhambra” and “Blessings” by Tim Lewis.
My solo show titled “Radical Reality” opens January 10th and runs through February 23rd at the Jewish Community Center Art Gallery in Indianapolis. The show is open to the public during normal business hours and there will be a public reception on January 15th from 5:30 until 7:00 pm. I will be showing many of my newest watercolors as well as some of my favorites from the past. All works will be for sale.
“Entropy” by Tim Lewis
MarySue Schwab. In addition to watercolor, I’ve been working in colored pencil. Here is “Go Fish,” a painting in progress!”
“Go Fish!” by MarySue Schwab
I also want to remind people that now is the time to sign up for watercolor classes at Ivy Tech. Both beginning and advance watercolor classes are available. Classes start on January 13th.
Paintings by MarySue Schwab
Meri Reinhold. This month I made a small monochromatic image of a mother elephant and her child.
“Mother Elephant and Her Child” by Meri Reinhold
Jerome Harste. Looking for an interesting read? Load Bearing is a new novel by Jane Hartsock. Greg Zimmerman who writes The Dork Review of Books says this about the novel:
“Load Bearing is a thrilling literary mystery about a young woman named Hannah. Hannah is married to an older mansplainer workaholic named Michael. A job transfer requires the two to move with their young daughter from the east coast to Indianapolis, where they buy a fixer-upper/money pit home. Hannah dives into the renovation and soon becomes obsessed with the architect of the old house who killed himself a century earlier. What led this architect to his untimely demise? What secrets can this old house reveal about the architect’s life and his family? And how might those secrets and the architect’s life ripple through the year’s to inform Hannah’s present moment? (Indeed, why is he appearing to her in sexy dreams?)
The novel is about how it’s just as easy to become obsessed with an artist as it is art. Does an artist’s biographical details ALWAYS hold clues to the mysteries within their art? Or should art always be separated from artist?”
Charlotte Griffin. I’ve been thinking “winter.” Below are two recently finished paintings. The first one is the painting I started when Penny Lulich gave the program at our meeting in November.
The second painting is one I finished as a result of my taking a online class from Dale Popovich.
Painting by Charlotte Griffin
Jacki Frey. Here is one of the paintings that I’m turning in for the Upland Show at Lennie‘s called “Clenna‘s Barn.” I recently showed this painting at the Indiana Plein Air Painters Association Show at Brown County Art Gallery and received an Award of Merit.
“Clenna’s Barn” by Jacki Frey
Laura Brown focused most of her time working on a commission of a sea turtle last month. Sea turtles are symbols of adaptability and resilience, a perfect message of strength through the new year!
“Sea Turtle” by Laura Brown
Calendar
January 7: Opening Reception of the Upland Show at Lennie’s, 5-7 p.m. January 7: Artist for Climate Awareness Meeting, 7 p.m. January 10: Tim Lewis’ Radical Reality Opening, Jewish Center, Indianapolis. January 13: BWS Monthly Meeting at First Christian Church, 6-8 p.m. January 13: Classes start at Ivy Tech, Bloomington. January 14: Opening: Linda Meyer-Wright Show, Cancer Support Center, Bloomington January 24: Opening Reception: Meyer-Wright Show, Cancer Support Center. February 1: Due date for entries to Teacher’s Warehouse Show, Bloomington. February 4: Drop-off paintings for Teacher’s Warehouse Show, Bloomington. April 13: Drop-off paintings for Hendricks Live Show, Plainfield.
Penne noodles with Farm made red sauce & Tuscan Vegetables, baked with a blend of Mozarella and Provolone & topped with Basil
Served with additional Salad
Dessert Seasonal Cobbler
Drinks and Appetizers may be ordered separately at your table.
Get your reservation Now
Tickets are $35 per person, $15 of which is donated to the BWS Art Scholarship!
Send checks to Jeanne Dutton, 621 N. Plymouth Rd, Bloomington, IN 47408
Questions: 812-606-9233
Make sure your check arrives by Wednesday!!!
RESERVATION DEADLINE: DECEMBER 3!! No Cancellations or Refunds after December 6.
Inside BWS
Painting Winter Scenes
Penny Lulich treated BWS members to an interesting and educational lesson on painting winter scenes using a triad of blues, yellow, and burnt sienna. Many thanks to Penny for preparing us for cold weather and inspiring us to begin our holiday paintings!
Jamie Gonzalez, Laura Brown, & Daniel Goebbert’s master pieces, inspired by Penny Lulich’s presentation, at BWS’ November meeting.Photos compliments of Jeanne Dutton.
BWS Program Line Up
January 13—Laura Brown will hold a discussion of her Journey in the World of Creating Sketchbooks. Members are encouraged to bring their own examples of sketchbooks they have created.
Febuary 10—Sara Steffey McQueen will talk about creating and using inks made from nature in your art. Attendees will get a chance to use some of her natural inks.
March 10—Members will describe some of the unique techniques that they have run across in doing watercolor.
From the Desk of BWS President Laura Brown
Thanks again to everyone that participated in the BWS Membership Show Spaces and Faces at the Gallery Mortgage. The show was officially closed as of November 22nd. We had a lovely evening at the 2nd Gallery Walk on November 1st; a steady stream of visitors, socializing, art and refreshments, truly made the evening memorable.
A FRIENDLY REMINDER: PICK UP DATE AND TIME FOR THE PAINTINGS IS:
DECEMBER 2nd 10AM-NOON Please pick your painting up in this time frame, or arrange with a friend to get it.
Congratulations to Barbara Coffman and Jerry Harste on the sale of their paintings from the show!
“Across Cowden Road I” By Barbara Coffman
“Elephants” by Jerry Harste
Because of holiday get-together we will not have a business meeting in December, but we will go back to our regular schedule on January 13th, 2025. I will be doing a mini-program on my journey through sketchbooks. Following a short presentation, I invite you all to share your own sketchbooks. The new year is a perfect time to get motivated to create art. More information will be provided in the meeting reminder email and January Brushstrokes.
Here is a teaser piece from my “Catvemeber” art challenge that I will talk about in my January presentation.
“Cosmic Cats” by Laura Brown
Happy Holidays to you all, and see you soon!
Monroe County Community Schools Foundation Auction
A huge thank you to BWS members who donated items and cash to the FMCCSC Auction. We earned almost $450 for the BWS Art Scholarship Fund! Each spring we award a graduating MCCSC high school senior, who is pursuing a college degree in the field of art, a $500 scholarship to go towards art supplies needed for classes.
Christine Peterson’s paintings are being showcased at the Cancer Support Community gallery space through December 20. The title for her show is “Creative Freedom.” The address of the gallery is 1719 W 3rd Street in Bloomington. If you want to view the paintings on your own, the gallery is open to the public by appointment only (Tuesdays through Thursdays, 8:30 to 4:30 p.m.) by contacting Emily@cancersupportscin.org or via telephone at 812 233 3286.
BWS’ Long History with the Indiana Daily Student
Linda Branstetter, BWS Historian, wrote to say, “I saw that the Indiana Daily Student was going to do away with publishing a physical newspaper after this year; it will only be online. Here is a run down of some of the articles they published about BWS.
January 11, 2006 was about BWS seeking IU talent for watercolor ideas.
July 13, 2008 was about the downtown gallery walk.
November15, 2012 was about BWS having paintings displayed at City Hall.
November 18, 2014 was about BWS demonstrating painting techniques at the Venue.
February 2, 2015 was BWS at the Vault with a chocolate display. Proceeds went to Life Designs.
March 5, 2015 was BWS artists showing their work at the Wylie house. The focus was on heirlooms.
February 19, 2017 was a Mardis Gras display at the Vault with the proceeds going to charity.”
Outside BWS
Celebrate the Season at the Anderson Museum of Art
The Anderson Museum of Art (located at 32 W 10th Street in Anderson) has three different events going during the holiday season:
December 6: Winterfest, 6-8 December 7, 11-20, 27-28: Elf Art Studio Experience December 7: Tall, Small, & Disco Ball Party, 6-8.
Hoosier Art Salon
The Hoosier Art Salon presents its first Community Painting Auction. The Hoosier Art Salon in New Harmony provided local and surrounding artists with canvases to create pieces of art, in any medium, to be donated back to the gallery for its first Community Painting Auction! The auction will run through December 8th at 5 p.m. Bidding takes place online. “These works of art make wonderful gifts for the holidays,” says Stacey Kamman at the Hoosier Salon.
Upland Plein Air
Upland Plein Air’s Member Show is scheduled to run January 9 to March 3, 2025, at Lennie’s Brewpub, 514 E. Kirkwood Ave. Drop off and hanging will take place on January 7th from 2 to 5 p.m. The Opening Reception will be January 9, 5 to 7 p.m.
Membership News
Jacki Frey. Both of these oil paintings will be in the Indiana plan air painter association IPAPA show at the Brown County Art Gallery (1 Artist Drive, Nashville). I believe the opening date on that is December 7.
Oil, Brown County Barn by Jacki Frye
Watercolor, Lake, Jackson Hole, Wyoming by Jacki Frey
Timothy Lewis. Lots of news:
New work:
Barb’s Pumpkins is a 15” x 11” watercolor of three pumpkins and a concrete rabbit displayed on the corner of our front entryway for Halloween 2024. You just have to love autumn colors.(photo 1)
Final Days is a 6” X 15” watercolor of a few dried out stalks of corn awaiting the final harvest of the year and one of the signs that winter is coming. Corn at this stage is dry and ready to be harvested. The final product is one of the most-used food products in the USA. There’s a stark beauty to the dry stalks. (photo 2)
Shows:
I have three watercolors in the Hancock County Arts Winter Exhibition at 20 North Gallery in Greenfield, IN. The show runs through January. (photo 3)
I will have a solo show titled “Radical Realism” at the Jewish Community Center Art Gallery from January 10th through February 23rd. This show is open to the public during normal business hours and there will be a public reception on January 15, details to follow. I will be showing many of my newest watercolors as well as some of my favorites from the past. All works will be for sale. (photo 4)
Andy Roberts. In an attempt to capture the serenity and beauty of nature as well as the cultural influences of the Mongolian Buddhist at their temple grounds, I painted their Prayer Wheel building and Oak tree during a visit earlier this month en plein air. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas.
Meri Reinhold. I do have a recent painting….however it is a pastel, not a watercolor.
Zain Mackey. I’ll be teaching a private class on watercolor values and color mixing in abstract painting in December. Fun stuff.
“Tree Sumba” by Zane Mackey
Attached is my hot press watercolor painting “Hibiscus Swears She’s a Visionary.” I’ve been sketching portraits lately, a wonderful exercise out of the comfort zone for an abstract painter like me.| “Hibiscus” came to me after a long walk. It was meant to be a traditional portrait but then all those floating eyes barged in and well…
“Hibiscus Swears She’s a Visionary” by Zane Mackey
Gene Harrawood. Getting into a Wintery mood with nature.
Nina Ost. I’m still at it only now just painting small. Here is my latest, a small cyclamen painting.
Betty Wagoner. Betty Wagoner has a watercolor painting in the IPAPA (Indiana Plein Air Painter Association) Membership Exhibition at the Brown County Art Gallery in Nashville, Indiana. This watercolor is a rendition of a feeder dam located on the Whiteriver River near Laurel, Indiana. The dam was built to service the historic canal in Metamora.
Title: Feeder Dam at Laurel; Artist: Betty Wagoner; Medium: Watercolor).
The IPAPA member show: December 7- December 31, 2024 at the Brown County Art Gallery, for more information, go to browncountartgalery.org
Also in this gallery, is an exhibit and sale of art by John Mellencamp. Concurrently, is the John Mellencamp exhibit at the IU Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art, ending on December 15, 2024.
Calendar
Now through December 20: Make time to visit Christine Peterson’s “Creative Freedom” show at the Cancer Support Center.
Now through January: Hancock County Art Exhibition at 20 North Gallery, Greenfield.
December 2: Pick up your entry to the BWS Membership Show at The Vault, Gallery Mortgage, 10 to 2 p.m.
December 3: Last day to register for BWS Holiday Party.
December 6: Start of Winterfest at Anderson Museum of Art.
December 7: Opening of IPAPA Exhibit at Brown County Art Museum.
December 7: Hoosier Art Salon Online Auction.
December 10: BWS Holiday Party and Greeting Card Exchange at The Farm.
January 7: Plein Air Membership Show painting drop-off at Lennie’s.
January 10 to February 23: Tim Lewis’ Solo Exhibition at the Jewish Community Art Center, Indianapolis.
Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, November 11, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Program: “Winter Strokes” by Penny Lulich
“I’m looking forward to sharing my painting techniques for winter scenes. Bring watercolor paper, paints, brushes, water containers, paper towels, salt, white gauche, and a spray bottle. We will explore painting winter sky and trees, adding snowfall, and using negative painting to create mountains.
Paint colors I use: yellow orchre, burnt sienna, cobalt blue, phthalo blue red shade, undersea green, green gold, other greens warm and cool shades, dioxazine purple, indigo, hansa yellow deep, new gamboge, red (any kind), and any other color you want to bring. My colors are geared more toward winter trees and skies. The gauche will be for adding snowfall. It shows up better than watercolor whites.
I use 140 lb watercolor paper. You can bring watercolor cards if you like. I’ve painted and sold many cards.
Hope to see you there!
Paintings by Penny Lulich
President’s Message: From Laura Brown
“Our next meeting is our final official meeting of the year. Come find out all the details of the plans for December and 2025! Thank you to all for who participated in our Fall Membership show. Make sure to check your emails as many important ones will be or have already been sent out.”
Keep on creating!
Support the BWS Art Scholarship: Reading, Writing, Bidding
The BWS Art Scholarship is managed by the Foundation for Monroe County Community Schools (FMCCS) and awarded each spring to an aspiring young artist. Each fall, FMCCS holds an online auction to raise funds for scholarships and programs. Through donations from BWS artists and friends, and bids, we can raise money specifically for the BWS scholarship.
So far this year, we are offering a Phantom of the Opera music box, two framed paintings, a two-hour watercolor lesson, a set of three original holiday greeting cards, and two coupons for gutter cleaning. One person made a direct donation of $100 in lieu of an auction item!
Another item is a “unique handcrafted ukulele made from high-quality birch wood. This stunning instrument features an eye-catching underwater steampunk painting, blending artistry with music. Perfect for musicians and collectors alike!”
Watch for new items being added!
Registration is quick and easy at qtego.us/qlink/mccsc Bidding Opens: Monday, November 11th at 8 AM
Bidding Closes: Tuesday, November 19th at 8 PM
An Historical Tidbit
Linda Branstetter, BWS Historian, reported that The Indiana Daily Student had a nice article in their newspaper on Monday, November 19, 2012 when Bloomington Watercolor Society had a show entitled, “We Paint Springs & Other Things” at the City Hall. The IDS article was focused specifically on promoting BWS and local artists.
October Reports
Our October Meeting: Thanks Andy!
When BWS met on October 14, Andy Roberts presented a program on Paul Klee’s Oil Transfer Technique. Essentially, the technique involves creating a kind of “carbon” paper by brushing black oil paint onto copy paper. The next step is to lay the “carbon” paper, oil side down, on watercolor paper. A sketch is then laid on top and the sketch traced over, causing the design to transfer to the watercolor paper.
Lifting the “carbon” paper and the sketch off the watercolor paper reveals the transferred design. Once the picture is painted with watercolor, it often has the look of a woodcut as watercolor resists the oil paint.
Thanks to Andy Roberts for prompting our creativity with a new technique!
Andy Roberts teaching “Klee’s Oil Transfer Technique”
Meri Reinhold & Zain Mackey showing off their masterpieces
Patty Uffman, Jaime Gonzalez, & Jerry Harste display their final products
“We PAINT…Faces & Places”
“Chickadee,” Linda Mann
BWS artists created thirty paintings for the annual membership show at the Vault which in turn created a really interesting mix! The opening reception during Gallery Walk on October 4th brought nearly 60 art lovers to the exhibit. It was a busy weekend with many other events happening. Lotus Fest, Hoosiers Outrun Cancer, Paint Bloomington, and the beautiful weather all combined to bring more visitors to town.
Now through November 22, you can enjoy the show in person Monday through Friday, 9:00 to 5:00 at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage, 121 E 6thStreet. Please call first to be sure someone is there. 812-334-9700.
VOTE in PERSON at the Vault for your favorite painting in the show. The winner of the People’s Choice Award will be announced at the December Holiday Party and will receive a prize of $100.
“WE PAINT…Faces & Spaces” Reception, Photo compliments of Jeanne Dutton
Prevention & BWS:
The Out of the Darkness Walk is part of a national movement created by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to promote awareness. The local Walk took place in Bloomington on Sunday, October 27 with, according to coordinator Lisa Osmon, over 450 participants registered.
BWS partners with Project Stay’s initiative to provide painted “Prevention Rocks” for walkers to distribute during the event while Kiwanis SCI sponsors that initiative. Painted and decorated with words of affirmation, the rocks are laid along the B-Line in the hope of lending a positive, encouraging note to someone’s day…someone who may really need that encouraging note.
Michelle Martin Colman, co-founder of Project Stay, provided the rocks for the BWS artists to decorate. Then, a few members gathered around the dining table in early October, creating unique mini masterpieces with acrylic paints and Posca pens. Many thanks to Charlotte Griffin, Linda Branstetter, Sarah Ward, Julie Boyd, Laura Brown, Cheeri Dennis, and Judy Owens for painting over 50 rocks for the cause! Thank you, too, to Andrew Preston of Preston Arts Store in Louisville for sending the Posca Pens!
Remember, if you or someone you know needs help, call 988…the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Below are pictures of two of the volunteers (Sarah Ward & Charlotte Griffin) and some of the rock that were painted.
Paint Bloomington
Paint Bloomington 2024 was extremely successful, much thanks to the cooperation and talents of BWS!!! It was a gorgeous sunny day, and people showed up early to get their paper and canvas stamped, and then they disappeared. Cheri, Andy, and Kathy welcomed everyone in the BWS/Upland tent!!
Next, the families and individual artists came, and Carol Rhodes introduced them to the art of watercolor, and Sara Steffey made her wonderful nature wands.
Bruce Kell demonstrated urban sketching and memorialized the day!!! Anne Woods made paper for medallions and natural materials, another big success.
Jason Ballinger, with the help of Charlotte Griffin, did gelli prints, which was a major activity, and an all-day adventure.
The portrait group had a fabulous model. Zain Mackey taught creating abstract landscapes. Dan Alexander, a guest artist, did an incredible portrait of Kris Kristofferson on Yupo paper with watercolor.
Sara got out her gorgeous watercolors that she made with natural materials, and Patty Uffman demonstrated painting flowers with them.
People of all ages just plopped down everywhere and were drawing and painting. Penny Lulich did watercolor landscapes and Anne-Karine taught how to use a limited palette and Ellen Cramer did a still life with pastels, acrylic, and water-based oils (actually non-oils!!)
The day ended with Joanne Shank, Betty Wagoner, Mary Sue Schwab and Bill Schwab “judging” the best of the day!!
What was interesting this year was that so many people were really immersed in all the art classes, and no one wanted to leave the pavilion. We also had a lot of families who were new Immigrants to Bloomington, and from multiple places. They were thrilled to be able to have supplies to work with and Kitty and Angela helped them get started. One young girl told me she hadn’t painted since she left Afghanistan and that for me made my day.
Chandra Rettinger introduced Halloween masks of recycled materials!!
Kitty Garlock was the heroine of the day transporting tents, checking in people, and putting together a community mural!!!
Below are photos of Anne-Karine’s Plein Air Landscape, Bruce Kell’s Urban Landscape and finally
Outside BWS
Hoosier Art Salon
Shop Small, Shop Local Exhibit, November 16 – January 5, 2025 Reception, Saturday, December 7, 4:00-6:00 pm
Join us for the annual Invitational Exhibition, “Shop Small, Shop Local Fine Arts!” The gallery will exhibit members from Posey County and the surrounding area, from November 16 – January 5, 2025. A reception will be held on Saturday, December 7, 4 – 6 pm. We encourage our exhibiting artist to attend the reception to greet the public and discuss their art.
Art For Earth
Morgensterns bookstore held an “Art for Earth” sale of original paintings, posters, prints, and other artist works on November 2nd. Over 100 pieces valued at $3000 sold from $5 – $50 dollars each. 100% of the money went to various environmental non-profits chosen by the people who donated the art.
Swoop Art Museum
Light, Space, & Time
Light, Space, & Time is an online art site designed to help artist market their work. The next open competition is November 27, featuring nature.
Membership News
Timothy Lewis. I have two new watercolors:
“Barb’s Pumpkins” is a 15” x 11” watercolor of three pumpkins and a concrete rabbit displayed on the corner of our front entryway for Halloween 2024. You just have to love autumn colors.
“Panguitch” is an 11” x 7.5” watercolor of a rock formation near Panguitch, Utah from our western vacation a few years ago. (photo)
Jerry Harste. I attended WSI’s “Wild Woman Workshop” in Indianapolis from October 8 -11 with Jennifer Stone. Jennifer paints her figures on see-through collage papers which she has stamped and then picks up some of the stamping and integrates it within her final piece. Below is a detail of a painting that I created during the workshop.
Andy Roberts. Below is the painting I completed after the BWS Oil Transfer Demonstration in the Paul Klee style. I called it “Kosmos.” I thought those that participated might like to see it. I also wanted to thank all of those that participated it was a fun exercise and a great experience.
Jacki Frye. I recently hosted a paint-out for Upland Plein Air at Jackson Creek. Below is my painting of the area around the covered bridge.
CALENDER
Now to November 22: BWS Membership Show, The Vault.
November 11: BWS November Meeting, First Christan Church
November 11 to November 19: On-Line bidding in support of BWS Art Scholarship
December 10: BWS Holiday Party. Information to come.
Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, October 14th, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
After the business meeting Andy Roberts will demonstrate anOil Transfer Technique used by Paul Klee in several of his paintings.
Supplies to bring: Watercolor Paper Watercolor Paint & Brushes Copy paper or Drawing Paper Sheets Drawing Pencil(s) All other needs to be supplied.
********************
It’s Showtime!!!!
Across Cowden Road 1 – Barbara Coffman, Spaces & Faces Exhibition
From the desk of the BWS President Laura Brown:
Our Fall Show for 2024 begins next week! Don’t forget to drop off your paintings on October 1st from 10am-noon at the Gallery Mortgage.
Spaces and Faces: To each of us these words will spark different meanings, emotions, pull us into dreams or into our very own realities. What artistic images do these words evoke? Come find out as the members of the Bloomington Watercolor Society displays their interpretations of all the spaces and faces they encounter!
OPENING RECEPTION: Gallery Walk Friday, October 4th, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
SECOND RECEPTION: Gallery Walk Friday, November 1st 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Showing at The Vault at Gallery Mortgage October 4th 2024 – November 22nd, 2024 121 E 6th Street Bloomington, IN 47408 Normal Gallery Hours: 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday
The Percussionist – Timothy Lewis, Faces & Spaces Exhibition
******
Joanne Weddle – Upcoming BWS Programs
November 11th — Penny Lulich will demonstrate how she paints Winter Scenes like the two attached.
December9th– Christmas Party/Dinner, The Farm Restaurant, Bloomington. More information to follow.
********
SEPTEMBER and OCTOBER at the BWS GALLERY
“Art is Meditation”, an exhibit featuring the art of long time BWS board member Charlotte Griffin, is at the Bloomington Watercolor Society Gallery during September and October. Her artwork covers many years of painting and a wide variety of mediums and subjects, creating a very enjoyable show.
The Gallery is open Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30 – 4:30 or by appointment. Please call before you visit. 812-233-3286
Glad to say that all sales of fine art, prints and original greeting cards support the art programs of the Cancer Support Community.
Charlotte and other art lovers at the opening reception on September 13.
Coming this Week!!!Paint Bloomington!!!
One of BWS’activities this week centers around Paint Bloomington, a fun and free community art event on Saturday, October 5 from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm at Bryan Park in Bloomington. BWS and other sponsors will be at the shelter on the east side of the park. BWS wants to thank those of you who are volunteering to staff the event, donating supplies, and teaching classes.
Two ways to participate
Classes are offered from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm; they are free and supplies are provided. There are classes suitable for all age groups and experience levels. Many individuals and families attend – bring a picnic! Classes offered include introduction to watercolor, making Halloween masks, portrait painting, and many more.
Artists can register between 9:30 and 11:30, have their canvases or papers stamped, and spend the day anywhere in Bloomington producing an artwork that can be turned in by 3:00 pm for display and prizes. Artwork is displayed and prizes are awarded in categories such as youth, teens, adults, professionals, and group collaborative pieces (fun for families and friends).
Look for the Welcome/Registration tables when you arrive.
Hope to see you there!
Artists for Climate Awareness: Using Natural Materials to Create a Color Palette
Maria Schechter is a bio-artist who uses foraged botanical mycelium and mineral palettes. Maria grows her color garden and works with materials such as flowers, fruits, mushrooms, and roots to develop organic painting palettes. Learn more and see Maria’s biography at: http://artistsforclimateawareness.org/maria-schechter-bio/
Join Maria Schechter in exploring natural materials to create color palettes from fruits, flowers, and earth pigments. Prepare a couple of pigments from a recipe, and then paint with them. The painting and some supplies will be yours to keep. — November 2, 2024, 10 am to 2 pm — Ivy Tech Bloomington, Indiana — Room D201
Highlights:
Begin with a virtual tour of the Lascaux Caves in France.
Learn about the history and use of earth pigments.
Discuss tannins and mordants (substances used to bind dyes to fabrics) that are used in natural dyeing.
Process and create botanical colors from materials like black walnuts, onion skins, avocado seeds, and blueberries.
Learn from Ellen Jacquart, director of MC IRIS, why native plants are important and find out what we can do to help preserve and maintain healthy landscapes.
Activities:
Examine ancient wall paintings and illuminated manuscripts.
Process one or two colors with a group of others using pre-prepared materials and a processing video.
Understand mordants, tannins, and alternative salts/metals for dyeing.
Materials Provided:
Stretched, recycled watercolor paper that has been prepared with layers of processed onion skins; pipettes and brushes
Definition list, dyer’s method recipe, and list of mordant modifiers.
Recipe journal, brushes, magnifying glass, and reference books.
Link to Maria’s YouTube channel for detailed instructions.
Takeaways:
Confidence in processing foraged materials at home.
Encouragement to explore and experiment with botanical dyeing
A two-color bio art painting
A gift bag with: — Recipes — A list of reference books and links to videos — A handmade recipe journal to write down your own recipes — Brushes and a handheld magnifying glass
No prior skill required, just a love for nature and curiosity!
Fee:$60 nonmembers; $35 for current Artists Climate Awareness members (Not a member? The nonmember workshop fee includes a new annual membership. Already a member? Contact art4climate@carolrhodes.netto register.)
Outside BWS
The Hoosier Art Salon announces a shared exhibit viewing entitled “Two Friends; Two Perspectives.”
Featuring Barbara Northern & Linda Volz: A showcase of individual perspectives that led to fascinating differences.
NOW OPEN!THROUGH NOVEMBER 10TH, 2024 HOOSIER ART SALON507 CHURCH ST., NEW HARMONY, IN 47631
THURS & SUN 1:00 – 4:00PM FRI & SAT 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Watercolor Society of Indiana
WSI announces a “Wild Women Workshop” with Artist Jennifer Stone. October 8 to 11, 2024. Mixed Media.
Membership News
Andy Roberts. Here are two of my recent paintings. The top one is titled, “Jimsonweed in the Pumpkin Patch” and the bottom one is titled, “Sally’s Spartacus Dahlias.”
Saturday, October 12, 10 – 5 and Sunday, October 13, 12 – 4. Open house, refreshments and plenty of art. Stop by for a visit and see what she’s been up to at 560 E. Holland Dr.
Go to Bloomington Open Studios Tour to check out the website for other participating artists.
*************************************************
Meri Reinhold. My wave painting got an honorable mention at the Persimmon Festival art show.
Congratulations Meri!!
*********************************************
Jerome Harste. In addition to trying to learn to paint animals like Hazel Soan (you can see my painting of elephants in BWS’ Faces & Places Show), I took all of the flower pictures I snapped on a recent train trip to the West Coast and created this mash-up, Gustav Klimt-like, garden painting.
MarySue Schwab. Bill and I had a wonderful weekend painting with other artists in Madison Indiana with Indiana Plein Air Painters Association members. Attached are Bill and my paintings from that event. I won an honorable mention and sold my painting.
MarySue added ” Now is the time to sign-up now for watercolor painting classes at Ivy Tech. While you are at it, add Calligraphy to your repertoire! You will have fun and and learn a new skill! Next session at Ivy Tech begins October 31st!” MarySue added the schedule as well as three painting to entice.
Deborah Rush. The Springbok painting was inspired by watching a Hazel Soan videotape I found on-line. Hazel has a wonderful new book called “Learn to Paint Wildlife Quickly.”
Also attached is the painting I submitted for BWS’ fall show: Claude & Conner. As you know Claude Cookman became a grandfather recently. This painting is a celebration of that event.
********************************************
Calendar
October 1 — Drop off paintings for Spaces & Places Show, The Vault at Gallery Mortgage.
October 4 — Opening Reception for Spaces & Places Show, The Vault at Gallery Mortgage.
October 5 — Paint Bloomington! Bryan Park.
October 12 & 13 — Open Studio Tour.
October 14 — BWS Meeting and Program by Andy Roberts, Frist Christian Church
Now to October 25 — Art as Mediation Exhibit, CSC Center.
October 31 — Start of watercolor and calligraphy classes at Ivy Tech.
November 2 — Artist for Climate Awareness Workshop, Ivy Tech.
Now to November 10 — Two Friends; Two Perspectives Exhibit, Hoosier Art Salon.
Photo taken at May Creek Farms Paint-Out by Deborah Rush
Meeting–June 10
Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, June 10, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Remember: BWS is taking a summer break from business meetings! We’ll resume in September. Meanwhile, watch your email for announcements of summer activities.
Following the Business Meeting, Carol Rhodes and Nancy Metz will lead the evening’s program.
“Discovering your Artistic Voice”
“Every artist from beginner to professional possesses a unique voice: rich and powerful, shaped by their experiences and stories. This voice is encouraged to grow with practice and thought–not fabricated, but discovered. Your inner artistic voice is intrinsic and can be found in everyday experiences and choices in your life, reflected in things like personal handwriting, home decor, music, and favorite conversations. Your internal voice is always evolving; it is driven by continuous growth and inspiration, and your art will correspondingly change over time.
In our upcoming meeting on June 10, Nancy Metz and Carol Rhodes, along with four panelists (Jerry Harste, Jacki Frey, Zain Mackey, and Tim Lewis) will explore “Discovering Your Artistic Voice” and guide you in identifying and nurturing your own distinct style.
For the workshop, bring 3-5 photos of your artwork that you particularly LIKE (cell phone or tablet is fine) plus a pencil and paper to jot down some thoughts. You will use these for some exercises.”
REMINDER: Those who made folded journals in the May meeting are encouraged to bring their partial or completed work to share at the June meeting!
Inside BWS
Be an “Artist in the Garden” at the Garden Walk
Saturday, June 22, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sunday June 23, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Whether it’s the potting shed, the statuary, the vegetables, a magnolia tree in bloom, annual flowers or perennial flowering shrubs, you can find something to paint at one of the Bloomington Garden Club’s Garden Walk!
Want to go with a paint pal? Four of the six gardens have room for two artists. The attached descriptions explain which gardens can host more than one, so please read the attached to find one you might like.
(This year, there is a bit of confusion on the map about the numbering scheme for the gardens so let’s refer to the gardens by the street address and the owners’ names.)
Participating artist earn a free ticket for the day they aren’t painting. Just tell Kathy when you sign up.
Remember – this is a rain or shine event (within reason since a deluge of rain and paint don’t play well together).
Kathy Truelove Barton will be maintaining a signup sheet for each day. She will be sending reminders a few days ahead. If you need to cancel, please let Kathy know ASAP.
Descriptions of the Gardens
The first 2 of the gardens are compact and have space for only 1 artist each.
Jeff Soper & Erica Burrin — 900 w 2nd Street
There’s something for everyone here. A huge magnolia shades a splashing pond and a cool and calm dining retreat. Birds and their feeders abound. A small garden produces veggies. A charming playhouse is tucked in surrounded by a bounty of native and colorful plantings.
Joe & Merridee La Mantia – 82- W Howe Street
This small sunny garden uses space wisely. Tree peonies and annuals grown by seed fill the space between sidewalk and the street. In the back yard a “start” from a relative produced a jaw-dropping arbor covered with plump grapes. Willow trees offer privacy and their branches have been used in art projects.
The rest of the gardens below can each host 2 artists.
Beth Applegate & Trish Kerle – 911 W 3rd Street
Once you walk through the gate, you will be WOWED by this large, imaginative, and intricately designed garden. The path which is bordered by flowers and sculptures leads you to an infinity loop which spirals into a tour of more trees, plants, flowers, sculptures, and art.
Richard Balaban & Julie Bloom – 1916 E Ruby Lane
Welcome to the Zen Garden. This owner had problems to solve. Large trees and the lack of sun dictated the garden design and plant selection. Run off from a steep slope was diverted to create an attractive rock-filled dry stream bed. A small fountain and wisteria arbor combined to create a cool, calm retreat.
Vidan & Trace Jovanovic – 1209 S Pickwick Place
The front gardens give a clue to what is to come. Annuals planted among perennials provide summer long color. Zinnias of all types and colors grown from seed are favored by the owner. Beds of vegetables; heirloom tomatoes among them, create a continual feast for the tummy as well as the eyes.
Bob & Nancy Miller – 2369 E Linden Hill Drive
The owners designed, labored, and immersed their lives into creating this magnificent large hydrangea heaven. A walkway much like a tour takes you by a whimsical potting shed and off to see a tremendous variety of hydrangeas, Conifers, alliums, and imaginative vignettes.
Membership Renewal Time
Andy Roberts, BWS Membership Chair, wrote to say, “Just a reminder that membership renewal time is here and that our dues are still only $35.00 per year. Please go to our website: https://bloomingtonwatercolor.org/ and click “Join Us” at top of the page. The alternative ways to remit and instructions are easy to follow. We look forward to another exciting year and extend an invitation to join us in all our many creative art activities along with our monthly meetings.
In closing, I would first like to thank all the members of BWS and especially the Executive Board that has allowed me the privilege of serving with them and BWS membership the past three years. I have enjoyed all that being an officer entails and would encourage those that have never served in this capacity to step out of your comfort zone and give it a try. It is personally rewarding as well as a great service to the Bloomington Arts Community.
Announcing the 2024 BWS Scholarship Winner!
The Scholarship Committee, led by Sarah Ward, is pleased to announce the winner of the 2024 BWS Scholarship. Graduating from BHSS with an exceptional GPA and headed for Washington University, Miss Seongwon Park explains her education goal:
“My interest in communication design was sparked by the use of symbols in Mexico’s metro stations, aiding navigation during times of high illiteracy. This intersection of art and communication deeply resonated with me, inspiring my ambition to create impactful designs. In college, I plan to pursue interdisciplinary studies alongside a focus on visual communication design, aiming to convey messages through thoughtful visual elements.
In the long term, I aspire to become a graphic or UX designer, or even a product designer, dedicated to creating designs that enhance the lives of minority groups such as immigrants, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. I aim to find creative solutions for effective communication and propose innovative ideas that improve daily life. As an immigrant myself, I relate to the challenges they face and hope to address them through my unique designs.”
Seongwon is shown here receiving the First Place Award for her entry in Bloomington’s 2024 Eco-Heroes contest. (Photo credit: Kriste Lindberg via City of Bloomington’s Environmental Commission).
Seong’s artwork is outstanding in many mediums, including this mixed media creation titled “Rotating Through Memories and Dreams.”
May Creek Farm Paint-Out
Photograph compliments of Kathleen Truelove Barton
Kathy Truelove Barton sent in a picture of BWS’ Paint-Out at May Creek Farms. She reported, “Many thanks to Sara Steffy McQueen, Sharon Parsons, and Betty Wagoner who were the hostess for the paint out at May Creek Farm during May. The day was sunny and pleasant. We had access to flower gardens, painting tables in the shelter house which opens to a pond. Some folks painted on easels on the dam looking toward the pond and beyond. We had about 11 artists painting that day, including Jeanne Dutton, Sarah Ward, Linda Brandstetter Ann Woods, Bruce Kell, Krista August, and Charlotte Griffin and her sister Carolyn Frey.
Artists are invited to bring their paintings to the June meeting to share.
SHARE YOUR ART – HAVE AN EXHIBIT and SUPPORT CSC ART PROGRAMS
Two years ago, the Cancer Support Community and BWS partnered to create the Bloomington Watercolor Society Gallery and it’s been a fine success. Participating artists have seen combined sales of over $6500, averaging $650 per show!
The BWS Gallery is located at 1719 W Third (that’s at the intersection of West Third and Landmark Avenue) in the CSC facility. Great benefits for Exhibiting Artists include:
CSC hosts an Opening Reception on the 2nd Friday of the first month of the exhibit.
CSC provides professional marketing materials to support each exhibit.
CSC provides publicity through their mailing lists, social media, etc.
Staff assists the artist in hanging the show
Thirty Feet of wall space is available to display your 2-D artwork using a STAS rail system.
Racks for greeting cards and prints and unframed originals are available.
Artists retain 70% of sales, while the remaining 30% supports the CSC art programs. Share the Fun – Grab a Fellow Artist and have a DUO SHOW! APPLY NOW!
CSC holds programs 3-4 times per week, and the Gallery is open to the public Tuesday – Thursday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. The gallery will generally be available during normal office hours.
Currently exhibiting “Fields, Flowers, and Felines” are Barbara Coffman, Linda Branstetter, and Jeanne Dutton, now through the end of August. A reception is scheduled for Friday, July 12, from 4:00-7:00.
BWS to Participate in IU’s Mini University
BWS has been invited to participate in the Eskenazi Art Museum part of IU Mini-University. Five artists from BWS can show how they do their art to participants attending Mini-University. One hour is required on June 12 from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Eskenazi. A table and a chair can be requested along with a parking pass. Laura Brown, Claude Cookman, Jamela Jafari, Jane Matranga, and Arkady Roytman have signed up for this opportunity.
In July BWS & Upland Will Share a Paint Out
BWS and Upland are joining forces again this July for a paint out extraordinaire! We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to paint at the home of Karen Pacific and David Shipley who, through their love of flowers and art, have created stunning sculptures and gardens that we get to enjoy and paint! Besides many garden areas and vistas to choose from they have chickens, horses, a donkey, pastures, little out buildings, a big barn, and a uniquely charming home. This is a paint out you do not want to miss.
Date: Saturday July 20th Time: 9:00-1:00| Place: Home of Karen Pacific and David Shipley, 1600 W. Dittemore Rd., Gosport Carpooling is encouraged as parked cars tend to distract from the view. A map will follow when the invitation is sent closer to the time of the paint out.
Photograph compliments of Kitty Garlock
Dali Alive!
BWS is sponsoring a road trip in late July to Newfields to see the LUME exhibit, “Dali Alive!”
The exhibit includes four original and amazing watercolors Dali created as opera set designs. The LUME videos are mesmerizing!
Transportation provided by Rural Transit. Be sure to watch your email around July 1 for all the details on time and cost for reservations.
A Little Bit of History
Linda Branstetter, BWS Historian, sent in this note: “Wylie House exhibited paintings from Bloomington Watercolor Society March 1st to April 30th, 2014 from a previous paint out in July of the gardens, museum, and docents in period attire.”
Outside BWS
T. C. Steele Member Art Show
The show is open to all members of Friends of T.C. Steele or to non-members who apply for membership while completing the show’s entry form. BWS artists are invited to enter their artwork in the show.
Show dates: August 3 -24, 2024 at Brown County Art Gallery, Nashville, IN. Registration deadline: July 22, 2024 Delivery of Artwork: July 27- 28, 2024 Reception and Awards Ceremony: Aug. 3, 2024, 2-4 pm Pick-up Artwork: Aug. 25-26, 2024
Judge: Caleb Weintraub, Assoc. Professor, Area Head of Painting, and Director of Undergraduate at the Eskenazi School of Arts, Architecture, and Design at Indiana University.
All levels of art experience accepted. Award categories: Professional, Amateur/Emerging Artists, and Youth. Parents, grandparents, art tutors and teachers, please encourage young artists to enter the show.
Professional 2023 First Place; Photo Compliments of Betty Wagoner
Watercolor Society of Indiana
Tim Lewis, WSI President sent in this list of upcoming WSI events:
The Watercolor Society of Indiana Annual Member’s Show opens June 14th at Gallery Forty-Two, 42 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, with a public reception at 6:00 pm. The show runs through July 26th.
The Watercolor Society of Indiana Annual Juried Show opens August 2nd at the Waller Gallery in the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields in Indianapolis. There is a a public reception and awards ceremony on August 4th at 2:00 pm and the show runs through September 28th.
There are several demonstrations and workshops by well known artists available through the Watercolor Society of Indiana over the next several months. Check out the WSI website for details: https://www.watercolorsocietyofindiana.org/
Membership News
Jerome Harste. While I don’t know whom to credit, I found this delightful poem on Facebook and decided it just had to be shared:
Tim Lewis. I have two new watercolors:
“Eventually” is a 15” x 22” watercolor of a local tavern near the OSU campus in Columbus, OH.
“Day’s End” is a 15” x 11” watercolor of three sandhill cranes returning to the Platt river in Nebraska to nest for the night.
Susan Savastuck. Susan shared her painting “Spring Iris After Dark.” Then added, “One more thing: Final Gallery Walk Reception at Bloomingfoods West : “Portraits in Pointillism.”
“Spring Iris After Dark” by Susan Savastuck
“Portraits in Pointillism” by Susan Savastruck
Andy Roberts. I have two recent paintings to share. Both paintings have been in some stage of completion for several months but I recently took time to complete them.
First: Owensburg District School- circa 1955 – was my school from 1st thru 8th grades. I have a lot of fond memories and some exaggerated stories from my days at Owensburg School. I am proud to finally put the image on paper. Pen and Ink- Watercolor
Second: Gnaw Bone Camp- Gnaw Bone, Indiana – a summer camp for girls that has been in operation for 50+ years and is a great place to paint en Plein Air. Pen and Ink- Watercolor.
Kitty Garlock. This painting was done at Terra Flora north of Bloomington and I always wanted to put something silhouetted in the very bright large space at the center right…an animal , person, a little thing of interest…any idea or suggestions as to do or not do?
UPCOMING EVENTS
June 10 – BWS Meeting – “Finding Your Artist Voice.” June 12 – Eskenazi Museum of Art, BWS artist providing “live art.” Registration required. June 22-23 – Garden Walk. July TBD – Dali Alive! Road Trip to Newfields. July 20 – Paint Out, Kitty Garlock, hosting, location TBA. August 10 – Paint Out at Owen Valley Winery, April Bledsoe and Zoe Dean, hosting. September 9 – BWS meetings resume. Show and share summer work.
“May is the most beautiful month of the year, a month alive with warm color. The flowers and trees are in full bloom, and even the sun joins this rhapsody be emitting warmer rays.” — Lillian Berliner,And The Month Was May: A Memoir — Painting, JCHarste
MEETING
Jeanne Dutton to Demonstrate Journal Making, May 13
Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, May 13, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. in the upper room as work is being completed in the room we usually meet in. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Following the meeting, Jeanne Dutton will demonstrate how to create artist journals via different ways of folding watercolor paper.
Making a sketchbook out of a single piece of paper is a handy trick to have up your sleeve! These versatile sketchbooks can be made in a variety of sizes and used for drawing exercises, specific projects, special gifts, or even to accompany you on a plein air outing!
Easy to pack, take one on your summer vacation. Make them with the grandkids and create special memories. Remember, these journals aren’t fine art, they’re FUN art!
Jeanne says, “I love to pick a theme, gather quotations related to the theme, then get creative with my illustrations! The folds create pockets which can be filled with bookmarks, tiny paintings, or other ephemera.”
Jeanne will also bring several samples to, hopefully, inspire you!
Supplies to bring: A full or half sheet of 140# watercolor paper, plus a few smaller sizes. Scissors A bone folder for pressing creases Ideas for your theme Quotations related to that theme Bring whatever medium you want to start your journal with – pencil, pens, watercolor pens, etc.
Photo by Jeanne Dutton
INSIDE BWS
Presidential Notes of Thanks
Thank you to MarySue Schwaab, BWS Signature member, who presented the April program, “Using Color and White Space Effectively,” and discussed layering, using transparent watercolors.
Here’s a sample from the audience.
And kudos to Daniel Goebbert for sharing his Eclipse inspired painting at the meeting.
A Note of Urgency
Laura Brown, BWS Vice President, wrote to say:
“As I mentioned at one of the meetings, BWS activities are made possible by artists like YOU! There are a couple spots where we are in need of volunteers to make things possible this year. The hats to wear are very different from one another, so please read the entire email so you don’t miss what might be a perfect fit for you!
First off, every year for awhile now we have been taking a bus up to the Newfields Museum of Art in Indianapolis to see the LUME exhibit, a 360 walkthrough immersive art experience which has focused on great artists of the past. From the Impressionists to Van Gogh, this year’s exhibit is Salvador Dali! However, we still don’t have a trip coordinator to help make arrangements with the museum, verify our transportation, send reminder emails, and overall ensure a fun experience for our members. Without a coordinator, we will not be able to arrange this trip this year, something we all surely wouldn’t want to miss out on. Note, Dali Alive! closes on June 20.
Secondly, if you’re someone that would prefer to work behind the scenes, we have the perfect spot for you! We are in need of someone to edit Brushstrokes, our monthly online newsletter. It is the homebase for all our organization’s news, recaps, and upcoming events. Right from home, you could be the one that helps build a solid record of BWS events and a go-to spot for members and the public alike.
Please join BWS and Upland artists at the May Creek Farm for a morning of plein air painting on May 18 from 10 am to 1 pm. The beautiful rural farm offers a large grassy area surrounded by forest and a large pond with a babbling brook and outbuildings. In short, plenty of scenes to paint!
Directions: Head south on Rockport Road from S Rogers Street for about 8 miles. Look for a tall address sign on the left and the BWS sign. Park on the gravel parking lot and please be sure not to block someone’s driveway.
A shelter house and a large porch offer protection from the sun or the rain! A coffee pot and refrigerator are also available.
Transportation from the parking area is available for those with mobility challenges.
Hosts Betty Wagoner and Sara Steffey McQueen will be there to welcome you.Questions? Email info@BloomingtonWatercolor.org or call 812 420-0695.
Cancer Support Community Center
Jeanne Dutton, Barbara Coffman, & Linda Branstetter will be the featured artists at the South Center Indiana Community Cancer Support Center through May and June. The Exhibit is entitled, “Flowers, Fields, and Felines.” The opening reception will be May 10 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Historical Tidbit
Linda Branstetter, BWS Historian, sent in this little bit of history from June 2, 2014. Troy Kilgore, Tricia Wente, and Jerome Harste were three Bloomington artists among 15 Indiana artists chosen for the Hoosier Salon Annual Exhibition that was on display through August of 2014 at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Historical Center in Indianapolis. This was Harste’s first time being a part of the exhibit.
Hoosier Salon has exhibited art from many of Indiana’s most notable painters, sculptors, cartoonists, and mixed media artists including Hoosier group artists, members of Brown County Art Colony, and other artists with ties to Indiana.
OUTSIDE BWS
Artists for Climate Awareness: Workshop, May 11
MarySue Schwab wrote to say, “Sign up for my watercolor workshop on May 11th at Ivy Tech Community College, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Painting Pollinators, Birds, Butterflies and Bees. I’ll share some thing I’ve learned about bird anatomy, choosing the best reference photo, and various watercolor techniques.”
This workshop on pollinators is sponsored by Artists for Climate Awareness.
“We’ll delve into the world of pollinators through watercolor. This special event aligns with World Migratory Bird Day, spotlighting the vital role of birds and insects as pollinators. Our artistic journey will revolve around the intricate beauty of pollinators. From butterflies to bees, dragonflies to hummingbirds, we invite participants to capture the essence of these vital creatures through the graceful strokes of watercolor. You can bring your own photo references or subjects will be provided.
Autumn Brunelle, full-time naturalist for Monroe County Parks and Recreation (and annual Bugfest coordinator), will provide education about pollinators as well as information about the Indiana Master Naturalist Program and the Monroe County Parks and Recreation’s environmental programs.”
Watercolor Society of Indiana: Two Announcements!!
Membership Show: The Watercolor Society of Indiana’s Annual Members’ Show will be at Gallery Forty-Two at 42 East Washington St., Indianapolis, from June 14th through July 26th. There is a public reception on June 14th from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm.
Call to Artists for Entries: The Watercolor Society of Indiana Annual Juried Exhibition is accepting entries from members until 5:00 p.m. on May 24th. This Exhibition will be at the Indianapolis Museum of Art from August 2nd through September 28th. More information and a prospectus is available on the WSI website at https://www.watercolorsocietyofindiana.org/ where you can also see information about upcoming classes, demonstrations and regional exhibitions.
Hoosier Art Salon: Call to Artists for Entries
Celebrating 100 Years, the Hoosier Art Salon’s Annual Exhibition will take place at the Indiana State Museum from August 26 until October 22. Apply online from May 6 to June 16 at juriedartservices.com. For complete rules visit hoosierartsalon.org.
$100,000 in Artist’s Awards and Commissions are hoping to be distributed!!
MEMBERSHIP NEWS
Gene Harrawood. His is something I’m working on:
Here are some I finished.
Tim Lewis. I was accepted to be represented by a new gallery. Gallery 02 is located at 1115 Broadway in Fort Wayne and will hold a grand opening celebration from 5 until 8 p.m. on May 4th. I will have six watercolors available and on display at the opening including “Snowed In” and “Ghosts Of Fenns.”
“Snowed In” – 22” x 15” watercolor, Tim Lewis, Artist
“Ghosts Of Fenns” – 16” x 12” watercolor, Tim Lewis, Artist
Carolyn Roger Richard. For the month of May, I will be a Featured Artist at the Hoosier Artist Gallery, a cooperative gallery in Nashville, Indiana. Also featured is Anabel Hopkins of Nashville. There will be an Art Walk on Friday, May 4th from 4 to 7 p.m. All are invited to attend. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day at 45 S. Jefferson St., Nashville, IN, directly behind the Brown County Art Guild.
One of the paintings being shown by Carolyn Roger Richards at the Hoosier Art Gallery
Zain Mackey. I’ve been having fun working with shapes and color mixing with abstracts. This painting “Ova Over Texas,” along with some older work is headed to the Boomerang Gallery, a pop-up art gallery at Boomerang Hall on Madison Street in Bloomington.
“Ova Over Texas,” Zain Mackey, Artist.
Patrica Uffman. This could be considered an homage to Linda Meyer-Wright. In one of her classes she told us that we could incorporate discarded items into our work; in fact, we could scape paint off our pallet to create something. That is what I did — scrape bits of hardened acrylic paint from my pallet to make this scene that I call “Paint Blob Panic.” It is 8” x 10” on canvas board.
“Paint Blob Panic,” Patricia Uffman, Artist.
Andy Roberts. I painted this En Plein Air as I love the house and many others in the Prospect Hill neighborhood. My Aunt Jennie actually lived in this house when I was a small child so hence the attraction also. Now that the weather is getting nice I hope to be more productive.
Andy Roberts, Artist.
Jerome Harste. One of the lessons the lions taught me during my last safari in South Africa is the secret to a long life. I’m calling this playful personification, “The Secret to Longevity: Marrying Well.”
Jerry also writes, “As many of you know I am a strong advocate of expanding society’s notions of literacy beyond reading and writing. To that end, when I teach courses (even those that deal with teaching reading and writing more effectively), I often ask students to recreate an artistic response to what they have learned rather than just asking them to write or talk about how they have grown. Below is a response from Elizabeth Pace, one of my students, that I thought was particularly powerful:”
Elizabeth Pace, Artist
“For this week’s art response, I felt that a butterfly would be a perfect representation of how my views on literacy have transformed over this course. Throughout this course, I have had to rethink what fundamental literacy means to me. Prior to starting this degree, I was very much a believer of a more phonics-based approach, especially in supporting students that had difficulties reading and writing. This has become what I now consider a “black and white” approach to literacy. Since then, my view of literacy has drastically changed to become one where fundamental literacy is the building blocks of who people identify themselves as and how they contribute to society, which has also become much more “bright and colourful”, as represented on the right side of the butterfly. Viewing literacy from a social perspective has improved my own practice, by stepping outside of the black and white, embracing more color, and finding new ways to engage, teach, and learn with students.”
Kathleen Barton. Here is one of the paintings I entered into my group show at Viridian Moon last spring. It is already framed and still available for purchase. More of my paintings can be viewed at: Https://www. Kathysartllc.Square.site
Additional security has been added to this site. Enjoy viewing.
Kathleen goes on to say, “I have been told by some people I have been influenced by Matisse. Below is a gesture painting I created following a drawing session by Claude Cookman in March. II try to maintain some naïveté; and I find some similarities to Matisse’s presentation on the paper or canvas of spatial placement .
Kathleen Barton, Artist
MarySue Schwab. There is still time to sign up for my workshop on May 11th on “Polinators” (Artistists for Climate Awareness entry above). I also wanted to let you know that my paintings of seascapes has been accepted for the Light, Space, & Time Art Competition entitled “Seascapes.” Light, Space & Time hosts an online art competition featuring artist from around the world.
“Before the Storm,” Aritist MarySue Schwab
“The Great Pacific,” Artist, MarySue Schwab
CALENDAR
May 1 to May 24 — Submit Entries to WSI’s Annual Exhibition, Indianapolis
May 6 to June 16 — Submit Entries to Hoosier Art Salon Annual Exhibition
May 10 — Open Reception for Dutton-Coffman-Branstetter Exhibit at Cancer Support Center
May 11 — Artists for Climate Awareness Workshop, 9-4, Ivy Tech Community College, Bloomington
May 13 — BWS May Meeting & Program, First Christian Church, Bloomington
Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, February 12th, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
February’s Feature Program
Painting Winter Scenes. This month’s program leader, Penny Lulich says, “I love painting snow scenes, so come and paint with me as we explore snow with mountains and pine trees, and maybe a skier or two. We’ll explore color, shadows, and even flick some paint! I find I enjoy myself more if I have my favorite things.”
So bring your usual watercolor supplies, plus a few small sheets of paper for practicing drawing trees and tree lines, a wax resist crayon, and some salt. Penny will show how to splatter snowflakes using white gouache, so you may want to bring an apron, too.
For Your Information here is Penny’s palette. (Stars ** represent most often used.) Permanent yellow light ** Yellow ochre ** Sap green Green gold Cobalt green ** Cobalt turquoise light Pyrrol scarlet Transparent pyrrol orange Alizarin Crimsom ** Opera, pink Ultramarine deep ** Indigo ** Cobalt blue Shadow violet ** Transparent brown oxide Quin deep gold ** Quin purple ** Burnt sienna New Gamboge
Penny recommends a number 10 round brush, and a three-quarter inch angle shader. It’s helpful to have a sword liner or an equivalent for the tiniest tree branches.
Penny will have a drawing for a couple of art giveaways.
Inside BWS
“WE PAINT…Peter, Paul and Mary”
February 2 – March 29, 2024
A BWS Exhibition Benefitting Teachers Warehouse!
Inspired by the varied styles and eras of Peter Max, Paul Klee, and Mary Cassat, the artist members of the Bloomington Watercolor Society have created a wonderfully varied exhibit full of psychedelic color, cubism, and domestic scenes.
Showing at The Vault at Gallery Portage (121 E 6th Street). Normal Gallery Hours: 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday, except for days of receptions for which Gallery Hours are. 9am – 8pm.
And Breaking News from President Jeanne Dutton:
The show is up, the opening reception over, and now to announce the winners!
Three judges each choose their top three using certain criteria, including adherence to the theme, materials used, composition, and presentation, etc. Comparing notes, they then team up to choose the top two.
Silver Second is “FLOWER POWER 2” by Char Dapena.
Her painting was from a drawing she did back in her college days when Peter Max posters were everywhere. Char receives a certificate and $75 from BWS.
Best of Show is “INSIGHT,” alcohol ink on Yupo, from first-ever-exhibitor, Gail Fairfield. Gail receives a certificate and am award of $100 from The Vault.
Winners of the door prizes are Babette Ballinger taking away a #10 Round Aqua Elite watercolor brush; Lynne Gilliatt winning a Peter Max inspired tote from MoMA; and Sharon Parsons taking home a beautiful handmade, leatherbound journal.
Congratulations to all the winners!
The video tour of the exhibit can be seen on YouTube, and thanks to Bloomington North Rotary for sponsoring it once again.
A second reception is planned for March 1, 2024 during Gallery Walk.
Enjoy!
Applications are Now Open for Signature Membership
Andy Roberts, 2nd Vice President, announced that applications for Signature membership would be processed during the 2024 year. The process will begin by those who are interested contacting Andy to express their intent to apply by the end of March. Physical applications need to be submitted by April 30. Judging will take place in September.
Outside BWS
Upland Plein Air
The Upland Plein Air Member Show opens at the Arts Alliance Center in the College Mall on Saturday, February 3rd, with a reception from 1:00-3:00 pm. Upland members will exhibit works in a variety of subject matter, styles, and mediums. Cards, as well as artwork, will be for sale. The show runs through Saturday, March 2nd. Arts Alliance Center hours are Thursday – Saturday, 11:00 am-8:00 p.m., and Sunday 12:00–6:00 p.m.
Cancer Support Center
Artists for Climate Awareness
Artists for Climate Awareness will host an in-person workshop February 13 from 5:30-8 p.m., entitled “Embracing Emotions through Abstract Watercolors”. The workshop invites artists to express their emotions as they delve into the intersection of art and environmental consciousness by reflecting on climate change through the powerful medium of abstract watercolors. For more information contact Carol Rhodes.
Artist for Climate Awareness will also host a Juried Exhibition for its members at the Art Alliance Center in Bloomington from April 1-18. The theme of that exhibition is, “Depictions: Earth, Life, and Our Shared Responsibility.”
The Hoosier Art Salon
The Hoosier Art Salon has several upcoming shows:
Young at Art: February 17 – March 31. Reception March 9th, 2-4 pm. Featuring the artwork of local students, Kindergarten-8th grade.
Field to Finish: April 13-16. Reception Wednesday, April 17th, 5-7 p.m. Showcasing the lovely “field” photographs and “finished” pieces of art that were produced during the First Blush of Spring Paint-Out by Indiana artists. Canvases must be stamped. Entry fee of $30 is required for non-Hoosier Art Salon members and $25 entry fee for members. All work must be for sale. Art must be received by April 8th.
Simplify through Color and Shape with Lon Brauer Workshop. April 15 & 16, 9-4pm. Painting is a language – a visual language – and our goal as artists is to find a way to translate what we see into a form that will represent that vision on canvas. Photographic reference will be discussed as a tool to help us better understand what two-dimensional imagery is all about. This workshop will benefit any painter regardless of the chosen subject matter.
The Watercolor Society of Indiana
The Watercolor Society of Indiana is hosting a Regional Exhibit of Indiana Artists at theBrown County Art Gallery, 1 Artist Drive, Nashville, from February 10th to March 28th. Any artist over 18 and a resident of Indiana can apply to show their work in this show.
The Annual WSI Exhibition will take place in June and July.
More information about either of these shows can be found on the WSI website.
Membership News
Timothy Lewis. I want to announce two upcoming opportunities:
WSI’s Annual Member Show prospectus will be sent to members in mid-February. This show allows any WSI member to exhibit one painting in the unjuried show. The show this year will be at th Gallery 42 in downtown Indianapolis.
WSI’s Annual Juried Show prospectus will also be sent to members in February. This juried show will be at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields.
I will be serving as President of the Watercolor Society of Indiana for 2024 and 2025.
I was featured in an article in the Greenfield Daily Reporter on Saturday, Jan. 20th for being a part of the “God’s Gift of Winter” show at the 43 East Gallery in Greenfield. I have two winter scene watercolors in this show which will run through the end of February.
New work: “Obscured” is a 16” x 12” watercolor of a solar eclipse in tribute to the April eclipse that will be visible across Indiana this year. Painted using QoR Watercolors on 300# Arches cold-pressed watercolor paper.
Jacki Frey. I put a painting of my ginger cat into the Upland show at Art Alliance. Consider this a personal invitation to come see the show!
Jerome Harste. I’ve been playing with pattern. I’ve entitled this, Landscape: My Ode to Kee. (Acrylic on 12×18″ cradle board).
And to experiment with color and explore the affect and effect of geometric patterns clashing with organic patterns, I created Eclipse. (3-D Collage Acrylic on 8×8″ canvas).
Bess Lee. Here is one of my paintings for the Cancer Support Center Art Show which features my work. The show will run March 3 to April 28.
Erika Wente. Here are three recently painted watercolors for the February Brushstrokes: (1) “ Three Horse Portraits” 14” x 11” ; 2) “Aspen” 7” x 8”; (3) “Mountain Snow” 11″ x 14.”
Deborah Rush. The only thing I managed to get finish is this painting of “Bridge at Stourhead Gardens.”
MarySue & Bill Schwab. Both of these paintings have a new home in Napa, California! Both are commissioned California scenes, I painted the field of poppies and Bill painted the old tree.
Meri Reinhold. I am in Antarctica on a Viking expedition ship Octantis. The majesty of the environment here is beyond words. However, one artist inspired me to try her very limited palette style. These two paintings are after Mona Eckhoff. Not really original works.
Andy Roberts. I have a painting that I created in anticipation of selling some of my works in Florida this next two months. I will be painting with the Sanibel-Captiva Art League and maybe enter a show of theirs while there. This painting is from a photo that I took last spring of a Sandpiper along waters edge. Watercolor on watercolor canvas.
Stephen Edwards. Attached is image for “Waiting For One Last Turn”. I was invited by the Hoosier Salon to participate in the Clowes Collaborative with 17 other artists. The work will have a reception on March 1st at the Hilbert Circle Theatre and be on display till June 9th. A fun little self portrait called “Just The Right Angle” I also attached. It is me taking a photo of an old lawnmower but looking at the scene in a reflected truck mirror propped up on the edge of the lawnmower. In the small circular mirror, you can see my wife holding a cell phone out to get the photo I worked from for the painting.
Calendar
February 1 to March 1 — Susan Savastuk’s Show at the Cancer Support Center.
February 1 to March 31 — Applications for Signature Status in BWS are open.
February 3 — Upland Plein Air’s Member Show at Arts Alliance.
February 10 to March 18 — WSI’s Regional Exhibit at Brown County Art Gallery.
February 12 — BWS Meeting, First Christian Church, Bloomington.
February 13 — Artist for Climate Awareness Workshop, Ivy Tech, Bloomington.
February 17 to March 31 — Young at Art Show at Hoosier Salon, New Harmony.
March 3 to April 25 — Bess Lee’s Show at Cancer Support Center.
Aril 1 to 18 — Artist for Climate Awareness Membership Show at Art Alliance.
April 13 to 16 — Field to Finish Show, Hoosier Salon, New Harmony.
April 15 & 16 — Lon Brauer Workshop, Hoosier Salon, New Harmony.
Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, January 8th, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Program: Transparent Watercolors: How to Use Color
MarySue Schwab says that people always ask her, “How do you use color effectively?” In response to that question, MarySue will conduct a mini-workshop around the use of color. Nuggets of her advice include: “Limit your palette! Know your colors! Remember complements create contrast! Know the temperature of your painting? Value trumps all else! And, save and use the white of your paper.
Supplies: Bring watercolor supplies (paper, brushes, paints, etc.) and a reference photo if you are starting a new project. If you are already working on something, bring that.
Close Up Images of MarySue Schwab’s artwork
Inside BWS
BWS’ Christmas Party
As the pictures below show, BWS’ 2023 Christmas Party (a Christmas Card Exchange) at Meadowwood was a huge success with over 40 people in attendance.
Up-Coming Benefit Show: We Paint….Peter, Paul and Mary!
This year’s show will benefit the Teachers’ Warehouse. The theme of the show is “We Paint….Peter, Paul, and Mary!” The show will be held from February 2 through March 29 at the Vault Gallery (121 E. 6th Street). The Opening Reception will be held on February 2 (Gallery Walk Friday) from 5 to 8 p.m.
In the prospectus, you will find all the details along with links to sites about Peter, Paul, and Mary, their lives and their art.
Any medium is welcome for this show, so BE INSPIRED, BE CREATIVE, and HAVE FUN!
Jeanne Dutton provided the following up-date for the Newsletter:
“Many thanks to Linda Branstetter, Denise Lessow, Marcy LaMaster, Meri Reinhold, and Lynne Gilliatt!
The Foundation for Monroe County Community Schools manages the BWS Art Scholarship. Due to the generosity of the artist members who contributed auction items, to those who made direct donations to the scholarship, and to those who bid on our items, the scholarship fund increased by over $300 in December.
MCCSC seniors may begin applying in February. Information will be available through their schools.
Signature Membership — Open Applications
Are you interested in applying for 2024 Signature Membership?
It’s the honored status for BWS members who have developed skills, gained education, and been juried into exhibits sponsored by prestigious art organizations, such the Hoosier Salon, National Watercolor Society, the Watercolor Society of Indiana, et al.
a. Indicate your interest in applying by MARCH 31.
b. Applications must be completed and submitted by APRIL 30.
c. Final judging will be completed by SEPTEMBER 30.
d. Award to successful applicants will be announced at the October meeting.
Andy Roberts, as 2nd VP and Membership Chair, oversees the application process. Please direct any questions to him at info@BloomingtonWatercolor.org.
Outside BWS
Bloomington Portrait Group Reorganizes Along Upland Model
Arkady Roytman • Faces of Bloomington • Oil
Visual artists in the Bloomington area are fortunate to have several vibrant groups serving their interests. The groups share many members in common and have filial relationships. For example, the Upland Plein Air landscape group was a spin off from BWS. The Bloomington Portrait Group emerged from Upland.
In January 2017, it was too cold to paint outside, and Upland members were looking for an indoor winter activity. Somebody suggested a portrait session. Eight members met at Jacki Fry’s home in Ellettsville, where the first model was an Indiana University BFA student. Claude Cookman saw a vacuum and began scheduling bi-weekly sessions for artists to draw and paint portraits from live models. Since then, the group has met every other Thursday to paint and draw from live models. When the Covid-19 lock-down halted in-person sessions, Mary Sue Schwab suggested self-portraits. That expanded into monthly challenges — such as portraits of pets, statues, dolls, famous persons, and the artists’ younger selves — that members completed in their studios and shared by email.
BPG welcomes artists at every level from novices to professionals. The roster numbers about 50 regional artists, but typically 10 to 12 artists attend a session. They work in a range of mediums from oil and watercolor to charcoal, graphite, pastel, and collage. The group has met in several locations including the Banneker Community Center, the Monroe County Public Library, Saint Mark’s United Methodist Church, and The Vault at Gallery Mortgage. Recently it has alternated between Bloomington Parks and Recreation’s Switchyard Park Shelter House during the summer, and the Arts Alliance Center at the College Mall during the colder months.
Cookman recruited models who represent our community’s rich diversity in age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation. During school vacations he scheduled children and teens. The youngest model was 8; the oldest, a nonagenarian. In addition to diversity, he also looked for people who help make Bloomington a safe and civil place to live: musicians, artists, athletes, ministers, WFIU radio personalities, journalists, fire fighters, and food security leaders. Models have included an IU women’s basketball star, performance poet, clown, belly dancer, cowboy, and roller derby skater. The one thing all models have in common is their interesting faces. “Interesting faces, interesting lives,” has become the BPG motto.
Because some artists like to include narrative in their portraits, models are asked to bring props that relate to their work or hobbies. Items have ranged from books and knitting to musical instruments and sports equipment. The most intriguing prop was Kundalini, a boa constrictor snake, which the model wore around his neck. The session got lively when the room warmed up and the snake started slithering across the floor. At that point, the moderator let the model break pose and retrieve his reptilian friend.
After six years as director, Cookman is stepping down at the end of December 2023. The group is reorganizing along the Upland model. Members will sign up for a month and be responsible for recruiting models and moderating sessions. Arkady Roytman has volunteered to be coordinator to keep things running smoothly and manage a website announcing the sessions.
If you are interested in participating in the Bloomington Portrait Group, go to this URL to join the mailing list and get information, invitations, and reminders about upcoming sessions!
Upland’s Membership Show will be held at the Arts Alliance Center in the College Mall from February 3th to March 2nd, 2024. Delivery of entries is on February 1 with the opening reception scheduled for February 3rd from 1 to 3 p.m.
Join us for a unique art workshop that goes beyond the canvas to explore the emotional impact of impending climate change. This workshop delves into the intersection of art and environmental consciousness, allowing participants to express their emotions and reflections on climate change through the powerful medium of abstract watercolors. Theme: The Emotional Landscape of Climate Change. In this workshop, we will explore the emotional depths inspired by the challenges our planet faces — droughts, fires, storms, oceanic changes, heat impacts, biodiversity damage, and more. Through abstract art, participants will have the opportunity to convey their feelings, fears, and hopes for the future in a visually compelling and evocative manner. Offered by Artists for Climate Awareness in partnership with the Center for Sustainable Living. Stephen Hale, board member, will provide a short educational piece about the organization’s many projects, and how you can help your home and community to be environmentally friendly. See https://ivytechbloomington.augusoft.net/index.cfm?method=ClassInfo.ClassInformation&int_class_id=1506&int_category_id=0&int_sub_category_id=0&int_catalog_id=0
Zain Mackey, “Orca Rising”
Call for art. Juried gallery show opportunity: Depictions: Earth, Life, and Our Shared Responsibility
Artists for Climate Awareness is calling for 2-D and 3-D artwork to be displayed in a gallery exhibition April 1 – 28 at the Arts Alliance Center in the College Mall in Bloomington, IN.
We are proud to be offering this juried exhibition during Earth Month, and we anticipate exceptional patronage during that time. Bloomington is the hot spot for viewing the 2024 total solar eclipse, and we expect a tremendous influx of tourists to be in town, especially around April 8th. (https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/indiana-2024-eclipse)
We will be coordinating other climate awareness events related to this exhibition, including: a reception featuring environmentally themed new music performed by an IU Jacobs School of Music ensemble; a pastel workshop by nature artist Avon Waters; and a climate-themed poetry and dance performance entitled “Stormwash: Climate Awareness” by Bloomington Writers Guild and Windfall Dancers, Inc. For the prospectus, see https://artistsforclimateawareness.org/art-exhibition-prospectus/
In Memorial
Robert Anderson.
Susan Graham wrote to say “I learned the sad news last night that Bob Anderson passed away earlier this month. I don’t know if the HT ran an obit for him but here it is from Franklin, TN, where he and Frances have lived since 2020. I was lucky to work with Bob for years in the economic development community in addition to BWS. What a fun-loving and sweet gentleman he was. Also a talented painter!”
Dec 10, 2023 — Linda Meyer, affectionately known as “Linnie” or “Lin”, was born on January 24, 1946, and passed away on December 7, 2023.
After a social service career in Cincinnati, Ohio, Linda moved to Indiana in 1988. In 2000, she took her first art class and found a love for art and a joy in expression that has become her second career. Linda taught watercolor, acrylic, collage and mixed media classes for Ivy Tech’s Center for Lifelong Learning. Her style of teaching encouraged students to expand their watercolor horizons with surprising results, including quirky impressions and colors while exploring chaos and pattern.
Jeanne Dutton. Ivy Tech’s Center for Lifelong Learning offers a wide variety of visual arts classes. For the very amateur watercolor artist, I will teach Beginning Watercolor I starting January 25. Classes are 2:15-4:45 every Thursday through February 29 and will be held at the commons of the new Bloomington Fine Art Supply store. It’s located next to Rainbow Bakery at the corner of Rogers and Fourth Streets.
Note that I will be teaching Calligraphy and Drawing at Ivy Tech Bloomington, winter/spring session. Sign up now. Classes begin 1/18/2024 and space is limited, Use the link for easy registration!
Fundementals of Drawing Thursdays 10-12.: This class will help you to develop your drawing skills. Come just for the love of drawing, or to use the techniques to improve your other forms of art!
Calligraphy Thursdays 12:30-1:30.: Calligraphy is the art of beautiful writing. Learn the basic strokes, size, and spacing of lettering so you can use these skills as a springboard for decorative lettering and flourishes.
Come join the fun!
Tim Lewis. Two of my watercolors, “Snowed In” and “Lonely Corner” are in the “God’s Gift Of Winter” invitational show at the Greenfield Christian Church in Greenfield, IN through March 3rd.
Jacki Frye. My granddaughter on the beach in Maui, entitled, “Surf’s Up!!”
Andy Roberts. I hope everyone has a Happy New Year and productive paintings in 2024. I closed out this year with a painting I was commissioned to paint from a couple who traveled to the Big Island of Hawaii in June. It’s a watercolor on watercolor canvas. I like not having to put glass on these painting as you can coat with acrylic UV paint and frame. Thanks to all our BWS members for a wonderful year.
Susan Savastuk. The items in red under the flyer (below) are donations that can be brought to the Cancer Support Center. The donations will become part of the Cancer Comfort Kits which the Center offers to folks healing from cancer. Feel free to bring your donations whenever, or better yet, when you come to see my exhibition at the Center which opens January 8.
Patty Uffman. I have been juried into the Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington. My work focuses on watercolors, but also includes pastels, acrylics, and collage. The Arts Alliance showcases nearly every media: watercolor, woodworking, collage, fiber, oil, photography, jewelry, oils, stained glass, pen and ink, glass, candle-making, and writing. I’m happy to join other members of BWS who also exhibit there, including Andy Roberts, Carol Rhodes, Don Geyra, Henry Leck, Rose Brenner, Sara Steffey McQueen, and Susan Savastuk. Please stop by the Arts Alliance at the mall Thursdays-Sundays to enjoy the wide variety of artists on display!
Zain Mackey. As we reach the end of 2023 I’ve been working with watercolor and playing with mixed media ideas. Here’s one of my paintings on that theme titled “Fleeting Thoughts.”
Jerome Harste. I had the chance to visit the Light, Space & Time Online Art Gallery. They are featuring an “All Women” Art Show. Below are some of my favorite paintings:
Artists: Susan Morris, Viv Buckley, (First Row). Jana Gaul, Michele Munyak (Second Row).
Calendar
Now through March 3 –“God’s Gift of Winter Show,” Greenfield Christian Church
January 8 — BWS Meeting, First Christian Church, Bloomington
January 8 to March 1 — Susan Savartuk’s Show at Cancer Support Ctr., Blmgtn.
January 18 — MarySue Schwab’s classes begin at Ivy Tech, Bloomington
January 25 — Jeanne Dutton’s classes begin at the Fine Arts Store
February 2 to March 28 — BWS Benefit Show at The Vault Gallery, Bloomington
February 3 to March 2 — Upland Plein Air Show at Art Alliance, Bloomington
February 13 — Artist for Climate Awareness Workshop begins, Art Alliance
April 1 to April 28 — Artist for Climate Awareness Exhibition, Art Alliance, Blmgtn.
Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, October 9th, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Program
The October 9 program is a Fall Paint In led by Charlotte Griffin. There will be three still life setups for you to choose from. Two are flower arrangements and one is a scarecrow and some pumpkins. Bring you paper, brushes, and your palette filled with fall colors.
Inside BWS
State of the Society — Past President’s Report
Bloomington Watercolor Society State of the Society Report (July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023)
Dear Members of the Bloomington Watercolor Society,
As I step down from my role as President, I take immense pride in the growth and accomplishments we have achieved together as the Bloomington Watercolor Society. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this remarkable community, and I am immensely proud of our collective achievements. The dedication, talent, and passion displayed by each member continue to inspire me and reaffirm my belief in the transformative power of art.
I would also like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the entire executive committee and all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make BWS a resounding success.
I am pleased to present to you the State of the Society report for our organization, summarizing the activities and events that took place from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023. It was an eventful year, and we are grateful for the continued support and participation of our members.
Meetings:
Throughout the year, our society hosted a variety of meetings and workshops to engage our members in the world of watercolor art:
July 2022 – We kicked off the year with an Etagami workshop by Ruth Bogan.
August 8th, 2022 – A demonstration featuring Rachel Berenson Perry, author of Painter of the Dunes: A Life of Frank Virgil Dudley. Morgenstern’s Books was there with copies of the book to sell.
September 12th, 2022 – We had a Show and Share session and a Book Exchange.
October 10th – Sara Steffey McQueen led a Mandala Art workshop.
November 14th – Penny Lulich shared insights on “Finding Joy and Confidence with Watercolors,” along with her demonstration of painting the California coastline.
January 9, 2023 – We visited McCalla Elementary School, which is now an art gallery showcasing artworks collected by Indiana University affiliates.
February 2023 – Unfortunately, this meeting was canceled due to Covid.
March 13th, 2023 – We had a still life setup to paint, featuring flowers, fruit, shamrocks, and other objects.
April 10th – Carol Rhodes and Jeanne Dutton presented various watercolor mediums.
May 8th – The FrameMakers demo was canceled due to the presenter’s Covid situation, and business was conducted among officers only.
June 2023 – We had a Show and Share session, the installation of officers, and a farewell to Carol Rhodes as BWS President.
Paintouts:
Our paintout events provided opportunities for members to practice their skills in different locations:
July 16 – A paintout at Indiana University’s Hilltop Garden.
August 6th – Downtown Historic Places paintout in Downtown Bloomington.
September 10th – Great Outdoor Paint Out at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site.
October 8th – A Multi-Organization Paint Out at the citywide Paint “Bloomington!” event.
October 15th – A paint-out and pitch-in event at Peden Farm.
April 22nd – A paintout at T.C. Steele State Historic Site for Arts of the Earth Day.
May 20 – A paintout at Hilltop Garden Nature Center.
June 3rd – A paintout at Monroe County History Center on the Lawn.
June 10th and 11th – “Artist in the Garden” paintout in collaboration with the Bloomington Garden Club Garden Walk.
Gallery Shows:
Our members showcased their talents in various gallery exhibitions:
“We Paint…Historic Bloomington” October 7 through November 23, The Vault at Gallery Mortgage
“We Paint…Monet and More!” – February 3 – March 21, 2023 at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage which benefited Teachers Warehouse. $286 was donated from the proceeds.
Tue Apr 25th – Sat Jul 8th – “We Paint…Historic Bloomington” Encore at the Monroe County History Center.
Thu Jun 22nd – Sat Aug 5th – “BWS We Paint…Outside the Box” at Waldron Arts Center, featuring non-traditional watercolor pieces and various mediums.
Cancer Support Community Shows:
Our members contributed to meaningful exhibitions at the newly formed Bloomington Watercolor Society Gallery, located in the Cancer Support Community. So far, the artists have raised over $1000 for CSC programs.
Fri 9/2/22-10/28/22 – “Places to Go, People to See” by Meri Reinhold
Fri 11/4 – Fri 12/23 – “Right Where You Are” by Laura Brown
Fri 1/9/23- Fri 2/24/23 – “Sunrise of Hope” by Rose Brenner
Fri 3/3 – Fri 4/28 – “Intuitive Acrylics” by Sara Steffey McQueen
Fri 5/5 – Fri 6/30 – “Spice of Life” by Christine Peterson
Special Events:
We enjoyed several special events throughout the year:
July 12 – Lilly Library watercolor book tour, where we admired antique watercolor works in the collection.
Sep 29th and 30th – BWS participated in the Peden Farm Children’s Festival, offering thumbprint activities for children.
October 8th – BWS offered thumbprint animals for children at “Paint Bloomington.”
Dec 7th – LUME field trip to the Monet and Impressionist Exhibition of lights at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields.
Dec 11th – BWS Holiday Party at Meadowwood, featuring dinner and activities.
Book Sale:
At our spring 2023 meetings, we held an informal book sale, with proceeds benefiting the Sande Nitti fund, which supports BWS participants attending art workshops. The sale was administered by Kathy Barton.
Workshops:
Our members had the opportunity to enhance their skills through workshops:
July 23, 2022 – An architectural drawing class instructed by Steve Dawson.
June 9, 2023 – A 3-D watercolor paintings workshop led by Anne Farley Gaines.
Scholarship Award:
We awarded a $500 scholarship to Danza Batson, a recent graduate from the Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship who will be majoring in Fine Arts at Indiana University. The scholarship committee will attempt to arrange for Danza to showcase some of his work at our meeting.
Treasury:
Our treasury remains healthy, with a year-to-year balance increase of approximately $90. These funds were used to make BWS activities more affordable, accessible, and enjoyable for our members by supporting or subsidizing expenses.
Membership:
Membership has grown from 90 to 94 members from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023. We are thrilled to welcome new members and continue fostering our watercolor community.
Thank you for your continued support and participation in the Bloomington Watercolor Society. We look forward to another year of creativity and artistic growth.
Sincerely,
Carol Rhodes
President, Bloomington Watercolor Society (July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023)
Membership Show: “We Paint…Things We Love”
The Fall Membership Show is hanging in Viridian Moon Gallery, 1600 W. Bloomfield Rd., from Sept. 20 through Oct. 28. Viridian Moon Gallery hosted an opening reception Sept. 23 from 3 to 5 p.m.
Important Show dates Oct. 28, 3 – 5 p.m. Closing Reception Nov. 1, 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pick up artwork
A $50 People’s Choice Award will be awarded at the closing reception, Oct. 28, at 4 p.m. Questions: contact Laura or Jeanne at info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org
Field Trip to “The Lume” on October 18
Bloomington Watercolor Society has arranged a trip Wednesday, Oct. 18 to Newfields – The LUME to see a new version of the Van Gogh exhibit that many of us enjoyed last year. Aside from the vast array of spectacular images that surrounded us before, there will also be eight Japanese woodblocks and a “Sunflower Room” with seemingly endless fields of sunny flowers. Many aspects will be as brilliant this time as last, but we have learned that there will also be different effects with this newer version of the exhibit. If you saw the Van Gogh exhibit before, you know how stunning the immersive art, the classical music, the orchestrated lighting, and the interactive exhibits were. This is another chance to experience that once again without worrying about navigating traffic in Indianapolis.
Particulars:
DATE: Wednesday, Oct. 18 COST: $25 per person (includes bus transportation, if desired) OPEN TO BWS MEMBERS: One additional reservation may be made at the rate of $25 per guest MAXIMUM NUMBER OF BUS SEATS: 26 TRANSPORTATION PROVIDER: Rural Transit (Bus is NOT wheelchair equipped.) MEETING TIME: 9:30 a.m. at Lowe’s (Please don’t be late.) DEPARTURE: 9:45 a.m. ARRIVAL AT NEWFIELDS: 10:45 a.m. (est.) ENTER NEWFIELDS: 11 a.m. DEPARTURE BACK TO BLOOMINGTON: 1:30 p.m. ARRIVAL IN BLOOMINGTON: 2:30 – 3: p.m. (EST) RESERVATION DEADLINE: Sept. 30 CANCELLATION DEADLINE: Oct. 10 (No refunds thereafter)
If you are interested, please don’t wait to make reservations; there is a limited number of bus seats. If you have not been to Newfields, there is a a gift shop (naturally) and a cafe where you can take a break if you like. To reserve your spot and pay electronically, go to https://bloomingtonwatercolor.org/home/activities/lume-roadtrip-2023/. To pay by check, contact the BWS Treasurer, Barbara Coffman through info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.
Second Annual “Paint Bloomington,” October 7
WHEN:Saturday, October 7, 2023. RAIN OR SHINE Registration begins at 9:30!
WHERE: Woodlawn Pavilion in Bryan Park (Next to the swimming pool).
HOSTED BY: Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington. Bloomington Watercolor Society, Upland Plein Air, The Portrait Group and Artists for Climate Awareness along with Bloomington Parks and Rec are teaming up to bring this fun event to Bloomington!
NO REGISTRATION FEE. Free!No advance registration required!. Artists check-in between 9.30 am and 11:00 a.m. at the Pavilion the day of the event. All artists should have canvas or multi-media paper stamped before beginning their work. Supplies will be available for classes at the Pavilion and some supplies are available for painting on the Bryan Park grounds.
HOW: Artists will be able to paint anywhere in Bloomington. The event is open to professional and emerging artists of all ages and skill levels to create original artwork of any subject in any medium. All stamped/tagged works must be completed that day by 3:00 p.m. to be eligible for judging.
Completed works need to be brought to the Woodlawn Pavilion by 3:00 marked with the artist’s name and email address or telephone number in the back. Please do not sign artwork until after judging. Wet Oil paintings should be in a frame for safe handling or BYO easel/display.
AWARDS: ALL stamped works completed that day will be eligible for judging.
Awards will be for artists in all media in the following categories: Professional artists, Emerging Artists, Teens (12-17), and Youth )7-11) and Collaborative Art!!
CLASSES will be at the Pavilion beginning 10:00-2:00 for youth and teens and adults.
DEMONSTRATIONS: Various artists will be giving demonstrations throughout the day and there will be opportunities to paint with them. Plein Air Painting will be all over town and the park!!
Music, Storytelling, Poetry readings will be at the Pavilion throughout the day. Bring a picnic!
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
May Creek Farm Paint-Out and Carry-In, October 14
BWS’s End of the Season Paint-Out and Carry-In will be held at May Creek Farm on Saturday, October 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Arrive any time after 9:30 a.m. Please follow the signs to park in the parking area.
The shelter house is located across the field. Water, drinks, food, chairs, and electrical outlets are available at the shelter. If you or someone has difficulties walking, transportation across the field will be provided.
Set up anywhere in and around the field. Paint 10 to noon. At 12, lunch (white chili chicken and snacks) will be served. Please bring side dishes and desserts.
You are welcome to stay and paint after lunch. The event is over at 2:00 p.m.
Zain, Sharon, and Sara are excited to be your hosts.
Address: 8745 Rockport Road.
The easiest way to get to May Creek Farm is to follow Rockport Rd from Rogers Street for approximately 14 miles. You will go through the town of Kirksville. May Creek Farm is located about 1 mile past Kirksville on the left. Look for the signs.
NOTE: In case the paint-out needs to be cancelled due to weather, an email will be sent by 8 a.m. the day of the paint-out.
Out of Darkness Walk, October 22
Thanks to several member artists, BWS was able to contribute four dozen painted rocks to the Out of the Darkness walk! Scheduled for October 22 at Switchyard Park, walkers will receive a rock and “plant” it along the trail. This project is co-sponsored by Project STAY, Kiwanis, and BWS as part of a national program of suicide prevention.
Climate change is real. Come to a presentation of scientific and artistic visuals curated and presented by Ben Brabson, climate scientist and Emeritus Professor of Physics at Indiana University.
Using art for communication can raise awareness, provoke impactful dialogue, and inspire action about environmental issues. Brabson’s talk includes engaging and artful illustrations that simplify concepts of climate change for ordinary people, making the concepts more concrete, meaningful, and motivating.
Mary Sue Schwab to Conduct a Workshop on Painting Indiana’s Trees
Mary Sue Schwab at the WSI 2023 International Exhibition at Newfields
Sponsored by the Artists for Climate Awareness, Mary Sue Schwab will be conducting a one-day workshop at Ivy Tech on October. 27th, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. In that workshop she will demonstrate key techniques for watercolor success. Participants will paint native Indiana trees, landscapes and more. Participants will be instructed in multi-layered, wet-on-wet techniques employing watercolors to create highly effective tree formations using a mixture of warm and cool greens, juxtaposing shadow and form. Participants are encouraged to bring a reference, such as a photo for their own piece. This workshop is open to artists of all levels and each will receive individual attention. Limited space sign up soon!
During October and November, the Bloomington Portrait Group will exhibit work at The Vault at Mortgage Gallery, 121 E. 6th Street. Opening reception is 5 to 8 pm, Friday, October 6. The exhibition runs until Friday, November 24.
Many BWS members also participate in the Bloomington Portrait Group. Several work in watercolor. Come and support your fellow artists.
Jane Matranga • Watercolor • Donna Carlton in her belly dancing costume
WSI Sponsors a 3-Day Workshop
The Watercolor Society of Indiana is proud to bring Michael Holter to Indianapolis to teach a 3-day workshop, October 4 to 6, 2023. In this workshop Michael will help you build off of the principles of design to create emotional and expressive paintings, engage in exercises that will solidify the content that you are working on, spend time viewing other artists’ work, and discuss the methods that these artists achieve using their techniques.Michael welcomes novice and advanced students and tailors the experience to individual needs.
The Workshop takes place at Second Presbyterian Church in Indy. The room is equipped with Audio Visual Equipment, and each artist is given their own 8-foot table.
Fiber Arts on Display
The City of Bloomington, in collaboration with By Hand Gallery, presents “Threads of Meaning”, an exhibition of work by Bloomington-based textile artists on view at Fountain Square Mall Bloomington from July 1 – October 9, 2023. Closing reception is on October 6th, 6-8 pm. The exhibition features artists Beatrice Atencah, Ary Bird, David Joseff Sloma, Patricia Coleman, Alizah Sage, Nina Montenegro, Emily Chase, Ileana Haberman, and Alexis Zabor. Go check it out! The locations of the show are the following: Fountain Square Bloomington Gallery Wall in the main atrium and the Fountain Gallery Lower-Level Walls and Upper-Level Walls.
Trivia Night at Cardinal Spirits, October 1
The Cancer Support Community has been truly supportive of BWS artists through the establishment of the Bloomington Watercolor Society Gallery. In return, here’s a fun way we can support their programs.
“From My Fair Lady to Lady Gaga, George Michael to Michael Scott, and Downton Abbey to Uptown Funk, join us at Cardinal Spirits for “That’s Entertainment,” a trivia game that’s all movies, music, TV, and pop culture through the decades!”
This event is to support the Cancer Support Community of South Central Indiana (CSCSCI) and will be hosted by Josh Johnson of Bloomington Pub Quiz. All proceeds from ticket sales go directly to the CSCSCI.
Food, drinks, fun, trivia, prizes!!!
Swope Art Museum to Host Rachel Branson Perry
The Swope Art Museum in Terra Haute will host a reception for RachelBerenson Perry on Friday, October 6 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Her latest book, “Painter of the Dunes: A Life of Frank Virgil Dudley,” is part of the Historical Society’s Youth Biography series. The author will give a lecture about Frank Dudley and his work. Her presentation will start at 6 p.m. sharp.
Rachel Berenson Perry is fine arts curator emerita of the Indiana State Museum. She has written numerous articles for “American Art Review” and “Traces of Indiana and Midwestern History” (Indiana Historical Society) and has completed seven books about historical and current Indiana artists.
Artist Talk with Max Ginsburg
The Hamilton County Artists Association is hosting a talk by Max Ginsburg on October 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Lacy Art Building (848 Logan Street) in Noblesville. His artist talk is open and free to the public. Bill and Mary Sue Schwab have taken workshops with Max. Mary Sue reports, “Both Bill and I have taken workshops in New York with Max. I highly recommend his workshops. His Alla prima way of painting portraits is amazing!”
Artist Talk with Max Ginsburg October 3, 2023, 7:00 – 9:00 PM The Lacy Arts Building, 848 Logan St, Noblesville, IN 46060, USA
Membership News
Congratulations to Babette Ballinger on winning the Gallery’s Choice Award at Upland’s Members’ Show 2023!
Patty Uffman is the featured artist at the Community Cancer Support Center for September and October. Her show is entitled, “Outside Influences.” Although it will continue until October 26, the hours are limited: Tuesday-Thursday from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (or by appointment by calling 812-233-3286.). The holidays are coming. Patty has a variety of prints available for purchase as well as small framed artwork.
***********
Zain Mackey. Above is “Dusty River,” a watercolor that’s part of my new southwestern series. I’ve been remembering the trip my husband and I took driving across country last year.
**********
Jane Matranga. Everyone is invited to see my exhibition called,Wearing the Painting at the Bloomington Arts Alliance. Opening reception is this Friday, September 29th from 6-8pm. The show runs through October 22nd.
Mary Sue Schwab. “It’s Fall!” I recently sold my Plein Air painting of Ogle Lake at Brown County State Park.
Mary Sue closed her note with this announcements: “Coming soon, November and December, Allen Hunton and Mary Sue Schwab will have a BWS art show at The Cancer Support Center of Bloomington, watch for more information.”
Joanne Shank. Bloomington Open Studios Tour is Saturday, October 14 from 10-5 and Sunday, October 15, from 12-4. Fifteen artists will be participating this year. Find a map to studios and listing of all the artists at https://bloomingtonopenstudiostour.com/
Joanne Shank will be one of the artists. Her studio is now in her home and no longer downtown. She would love to have any BWS members stop by.
Stephen Edwards. Stephen writes “I’m finally painting again.” He’s also winning lots of awards!! “My ‘Tree of Life’ (Below: Painting 1) won Best of Show at the Artist Association of Madison County Open Annual Exhibition (now showing at the Anderson Museum of Art) and was also accepted in the Pennsylvania Watercolor Society International Open Exhibition. ‘Keeping the Seat Warm’ (Painting 2) was accepted in the Philadelphia Watercolor Society’s 123th International Exhibition of Works on Paper. ‘Cola Wars’ (Painting 3) was accepted into the Watercolor Society of Indiana’s 41st Annual Exhibition now showing at Newfields.”
Timothy Lewis. It has been a busy month.
New work: watercolor, Old Faithful, Through The Mist. and Solitaire.
Nov. 3rd through Jan. 7th – My watercolor, Spring Fed, was juried into the 79th Annual Wabash Valley Exhibition which will feature artwork by artists from Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee. The show is at the Swope Art Museum in Terre Haute, IN.
October – I will have a solo show at the Midtown Gallery in Broad Ripple the entire month of October. All watercolors in the show will be for sale directly from the artist.
On October 10 I participated in a curated tour of the Quest For The West show at the Eiteljorg Museum. Our guide was Gayle Weisfield, a well known western watercolor painter and regular participant in the show. From the 11th through the 13th I participated in a workshop by Gayle at a private residence in Zionsville. This workshop was arranged through the Watercolor Society of Indiana and included 16 participants.
Andy Roberts. These are a couple of my recent paintings: (1) Fountain Square Downtown Bloomington- August Paint Out Plein Air; (2) T.C. Steele’s Outdoor Studio Wagon, T.C. Steele Historical Site – July Plein Air.
Anticipating seeing a large turnout for “Paint Bloomington” Saturday October 7th, and the dedicated BWS members who are participating or volunteering.
Patricia Coleman. I would like to share a link to my recent blog post on persimmon astringent at:
There are some references to persimmon astringent being used to strengthen some handmade papers and in stencil making and its use as a paint. Traditionally it has been used in ways similar to indigo.
Jacki Frey. Here is painting I did this Tuesday after visiting Gnawbone camp. I do not often paint horses, however, these guys posed for me!!
Betty Wagoner. I recently attended the Watercolor Society of Indiana’s 3-day workshop with Taos artist, Gayle Weisfield. A day before the workshop, we met at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis for a tour of the Quest for the West exhibit. Gayle was one of the artists featured in that exhibit. While there, we met an African-American artist in the show who gave an inspirational speech about his paintings and his life. The combination plein air and studio workshop itself was held on an estate in Zionsville. It featured wet-on-wet painting and storytelling. It was both eye-opening and inspirational. Gayle is a wonderful teacher. The hosts fed us a wonderful breakfast and lunch in their beautiful home. If you have a chance to attend one of Gayle’s workshops, I highly recommend it. Attached is a photo of a not quite finished painting of one of the workshop participants sitting at a creek that ran through the property.
Don Madwig. The Opening Reception to Don Madwig’s show at the Fell Gallery, entitled “Nocturnes – Variations on a Theme,” will be on October 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. Don’s show runs through the month of November.
Calendar
Sept. 29 Opening Reception, Jane Matranga’s Wearing the Painting Exhibition, Art Alliance Oct. 1 Trivia Night at Cardinal Spirits, Cancer Support Community Oct. 3 Opening Reception, Don Madwig’s show at The Fell Gallery Oct. 4-6 WSI Workshop with Michael Holter, Indianapolis Oct. 6 Closing Reception, Fibers on Display, Fountain Square Mall Oct. 6 Opening Reception, Bloomington Portrait Group Exhibition, The Vault Oct. 7 2nd Annual Bloomington Paint-out, Woodlawn Pavilion in Bryan Park Oct. 9 BWS October Meeting, First Christian Church Oct. 12 Ben Brabson at Ivy Tech, Artists for Climate Awareness Oct. 14-15 Open Studio Tours, Bloomington Oct. 18 BWS Field Trip to Newfield’s – The LUME Oct. 22 Out of Darkness Walk Oct. 27 Mary Sue Schwab Workshop at Ivy Tech Oct. 28 3-5 p.m. Closing Reception for Member Show, Viridian Moon Nov. 1 10:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Pick up Member Show paintings at Viridian Moon
