The October Program: Printing Greeting Cards – Joanne Shank. Over the past years people have been able to purchase cards of Joanne’s birds and flowers at various sites in our community. During this program, Joanne will share what she has to take to the printer as well as where she has the work done, the costs involved, and the choices she has to make.
Joanne Weddle, BWS Program Chair, says, “It is fun to have your art made into greeting cards to send to friends. Don’t miss this Zoom program. It will inspire you to take this step.”
Greeting Cards — Joanne Shank
September’s Program — A Thank You to Kitty Garlock. Kitty was the facilitator for BWS’s September Show and Share program. Each fall BWS’s September program is a Show and Share where members have an opportunity to share examples of paintings they have done over the summer. This program is always a favorite as we enjoy seeing what others have done and view samples of their creativity. Artwork shown included landscapes, portraits, and paintings on a variety of topics including the pandemic. If you missed the September program, you will be able to see what others have done during our upcoming virtual membership show.
Inside BWS
November 1st Deadline
Joanne Weddle, BWS Program Chair, wants to remind you to get your Art Cards (from 1 to 10) and your return envelop with 2 stamps into Cassidy Young by November 1 in order participate in the Christmas Art Card Exchange at our December meeting. Cassidy’s mailing address is 1419 E. Browning Lane, Bloomington, IN 47401. For further details see the August and September BWS Newsletters.
BWS Membership Show
If you missed the virtual celebration of Bloomington Watercolor Society Artists and their paintings on October 2nd, you can still do so by going to: http://bloomingtonwatercolor.smugmug.com. Kathy Barton, the Show Chair, said that paintings can also be viewed through October 29 at The Vault, Gallery Mortgage (121 E. 6th Street, Bloomington) by contacting John LaBella to schedule an appointment (812-334-9700 or John@gallerymortgage.com). Here is just one of the many fabulous paintings in the 2020 Membership Show.
Artist: Patty Uffman
Paint-Out at TC Steele
BWS’s last Paint-Out of the year will be Saturday, October 10, 2020 at the TC Steele State Historic Site. The Paint-Out starts at 10 am and participants may stay as long they like.
Our Paint-Out Chair, Betty Wagoner says, “The site will be a delight at this time of the year. It is on a ridge with buildings, forests, gardens, expanses of grass and a couple of ponds. The TC Steele home and barn-like studio are visually fetching. Many trees will be in color. There is a new Visitor Center with modern restrooms. A fee of $10 or $8 for seniors is required. A tour of the Studio and the House of the Singing Wind is included in the fee. Although we will not have the traditional shared meal due to COVID-19, participants can each bring a lunch and gather with fellow painters, at a safe distance. Masks are required at the site. Happy painting.”
Outside BWS
Art Sanctuary Fall Art Show
Char Dapena shared this announcement from Nancy Maxwell:
Because so many events have been postponed including the Annual Fall Foliage Festival, the Art Sanctuary of Martinsville is having a “No-entry-fee, No-prizes, Art Show” this October.
Youth, amateur and professional artists are welcome as is all media and craft. Art drop off is Sunday, October 5, from 2 to 6 p.m. and October 6, from 3 to 7 p.m. at 190 N. Sycamore St., Martinsville. Contact Mlika Power, the Show Coordinator (mikalvus2scrap@yahoo.com) for more information.
Burris Family Show, “A Look at Relative Art,” which opened last January, is being held over and will run through Spring 2021. Bob Burris says to let him know when you come to Columbus to see the show as he would love act as your personal guide.
Betty Wagoner shared a picture that she painted at the Great Outdoor Art Contest (GOAC) which took place at TC Steele on Sept. 9-12, 2020. Betty also sent a picture of the oil painting by Donna Shortt that was declared the winner of the Great Outdoor Art Contest.
Steele Small Studio – Betty WagonerAritist: Donna Shortt
Other Area Shows
The Hoosier Salon 95th Juried Showat the Indiana State Museum runs from now until October 15.
The Desiderata Art Show at the Arts Illiana Gallery in Terra Haute runs from now until November 20.
The deadline for submitting artwork to the Richmond Art Museum’s 122nd Annual Exhibition by Indiana and Ohio Artist is October 9. The show itself will from November 5th to January 9.
The Terra Haute Swope Art Museum’s 76th Annual Wabash Valley Exhibition runs from November 6 to January 10th.
Member News
Cassidy Young shares an article she read that contains an important part of the history of art:
Fearful that the occupying Nazi forces in Prague could confiscate a lifetime’s worth of artwork, Jewish painter Gertrud Kauders decided in 1939 to hide her vast array of paintings and drawings.
Nearly 80 years later, in the summer of 2018, Michal Ulvr was leading a demolition team tearing down a decrepit house south of Prague when “about 30 paintings tumbled out and fell onto my head.”
As the day wore on, the crew turned up more stashes of strikingly beautiful artwork as they dismantled the house — some were under floorboards, others behind walls. By the end of the day some 700 paintings and sketches lay out in the open on the worksite as summer rain clouds gathered over Prague.
Meri Reinhold announced that her painting “Maasai Jeweler” was accepted in the 76th Annual Wabash Valley Juried Show to be held at the Swope Art Museum (25 S 7th St., Terre Haute) from November 6th through January 10, 2021.
Bob Burris shared his latest painting, “Florida House.”
Jerry Harste annually donates a picture to support the Simon-Burroughs Art Museum in Myrtle Beach. This year the Museum’s 10th Annual Collectors Event is scheduled for Valentine’s Day, February 14. All artwork donated must be valued at at least $200 dollars. Patrons buy $200 tickets to attend the event and then select a piece of art to add to their private collections. Donated artwork will be on display on the Museum’s website and on display in one of the Museum’s galleries from January 5 to February 13.
“Field of Flowers” by Jerry HarsteArtist — Jeanne Dutton
October’s Calendar
October 1 to November 1 — Deadline to get from 1 to 10 Art Cards in to Cassidy Young (1419 E. Browning Lane) in order to participate in the December Art Card Exchange.Don’t Put This Off!!!
October 1 through Spring, 2021, Burris Family Show in Columbus.
October 1 to October 15, Hosier Salon 95th Juried Show at the Indiana State Museum.
October 1 to November 20, Desiderata Art Show at the Arts Illiana Gallery in Terra Haute.
October 2 to October 29, BWS Membership Show, Online and at The Vault.
October 5 and October 6, Drop off of painting at Art Sanctuary of Martinsville.
October 10, TCSteele Paint-Out, starting time 10 a.m.
October 15, deadline for submitting artwork to the Richmond Art Museum’s 122nd Annual Exhibition.
October 12, BWS Business Meeting (6 p..m.) and Program (7 p.m.) over Zoom.
November 6 to January 10, Terra Haute Swope Art Museum’s 76th Annual Wabash Valley Exhibition.
Program: Making and Trading Art Cards with Joanne Weddle, 7-8 p.m. via Zoom
BWS members are invited to design and paint artist trading cards for our Holiday Trading activity. Following our Monday, August 10, 6:00 Zoom meeting, Joanne Weddle will give a presentation on making artist trading cards. Instructions on how we will trade these cards is as follows:
a. Members are invited to make from 1 – 10 cards (your choice). These cards are 2 ½ by 3 ½ inches in size and done on cards you can purchase from Hobby Lobby (25 for $2.99 minus a 40% coupon) or ones you cut from your own watercolor paper.
b. Designs should be original. They can each be different or all the same. Put your name on the back of the cards.
c. Put your cards in an envelope to mail to Cassidy Young at 1419 E. Browning Lane, Bloomington, IN 47401.
d. Also put a stamped, self-addressed envelope in the envelope with your cards. These envelopes must be received by Cassidy no later than November 1, 2020.
e. Cassidy will sort out all cards she receives and return to you in your self-addressed, stamped envelope the same number of cards done by others as the number you sent to her.
f.. Following the BWS Zoom business meeting on Monday, December 14, members will open their envelopes, look at their cards and make any comments they may wish to make (a thank you, or whatever). These will be our holiday gifts to each other. We hope you will participate.
Inside BWS
A special thank you to Nancy Metz and Carol Rhodes for their July program “Discovering Your Museum.” While there were some technical problems those of us who hung in there learned about the online exhibits that are available to view around the world as well as why sketching painting that capture your attention can be such an educational and enlightening experience. Thanks again, Nancy and Carol. A wonderful program by two wonderful teachers.
The Coming Year in Programs: 2020-2021 is Going to be Great!
Joanne Weddle, BWS Program Chair, announced that all BWS programs for 2020-2021 will be held the 2nd Monday of each month following a business meeting conducted on Zoom. Programs already scheduled are as follows:
August 10 – Artist Trading Cards – Joanne Weddle
September 14 – Show and Share facilitated by Kitty Garlock – members invited to share a piece of art done over the summer.
October 12 – Printing Cards From Paintings – Joanne Shank.
November 9 – Indiana Greens Throughout the Year – Kathy Barton.
December 14 – Meadowood Holiday Party cancelled. Artist Trading Cards will be shared between members on zoom following the business meeting.
January 11 – Journals – Jeanne Dutton.
February 8 – Using the FUNdamental of Art to Create an Abstract – Jerry Harste
March 8 – Making Folding Greeting Cards – Charlotte Griffin
April 12 – _______________
May 19 – ________________
June 14 – ________________
Programs and presenters are needed for the months of April, May and June. If you are willing to be a presenter on a topic you think would interest the group, let Joanne Weddle know (812-345-6217 or jweddle2@comcast.net). If you don’t want to present, but have a topic you wish to have presented, let Joanne know and she will find a presenter. Joanne says, “In a regular year we would have filled out a form with program ideas during our June meeting. This year we need your electronic input via email with ideas to complete this year’s schedule.” Please respond.
Attention! August BWS Paint-Out
Sat., August 8, 2020, 9 am – Noon At the Woolery and The Clear Creek Trail
Betty Wagoner, our Paint-Out Chair, described the setting and all of the opportunities of what to paint. “The Woolery and northern terminus of the Clear Creek Trail are connected by a paved trail that crosses under the Tapp Road bridge. The Clear Creek Trail proceeds south for 2 1/2 miles. The Woolery, on the north side of Tapp Road, is an aging, metal shell of a building where an artist could walk in and set up to paint. It is adjacent to The Woolery Mill, a renovated building. The grounds are both groomed and on the wild side with expanses of grass, a quarry full of water, walls of large stones, trees and a pond. Large machinery including an old firetruck are scattered about the property. The Clear Creek Trail on the south side of the bridge offers a pretty view of the Clear Creek flowing over rocks. As a bonus, a farmers’ market is there on Saturdays. For a view of the site, go to https://www.oneworldatwoolery.com“
Look for an email reminder and instructions in the week before the paint-out.
Our Latest Paint-Out: A Report and Pictures from Betty Wagonerand Andy Roberts
On July 11, ten BWS painters met at the Karst Farm Park on one of the best weather days of July. It was sunny but a cool, low humidity morning. The park was beautiful, a mix of rolling grasslands, trees, sports fields, woods and trails. Photographed here are Cassidy Young at work and Nancy Metz, surrounded by her paintings.
Andy Roberts wrote saying, “I participated in a Paint Out at Karst Farm Park on Saturday July 11th. It was a beautiful summer morning and peaceful. I sketched and painted this landscape in watercolor.”
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! 2020 BWS Membership Show
Kathleen Barton, BWS Show Chair, announced that our Member Show will be held October 2 through October 29 with the take-in of paintings on September 29. At this time it is not known whether the show will be online or in a gallery, with visitors accessing the exhibition at reserved times. Visit the BWS website to see the prospectus.
This year’s theme is “Renewal/Rejuvenation,” says Kathleen Barton, “to counter-act the specter we deal with on a daily basis. If you have an artistic response to Covid it can be part of the show, as we seek ways to process the pandemic and live full lives. Stay safe and we look forward to seeing your paintings.”
Francie Agnostino’s Artwork: This from Patty Uffman, our Past President
“Some of you know Francita (“Francie”) Agostino who has been a member of BWS a number of years. She lived in Bloomington except for part of the year that she spent in Bradenton, Florida. Recently she moved back to Bloomington and now is a new resident of the independent living section in Gentry Park. Due to major downsizing, she has sold her artwork to Jeff’s Warehouse, 424 S. College Avenue. Anyone interested in her voluminous oils, pastels, and watercolors can visit Jeff’s Warehouse Tuesday-Saturday. I was there over the weekend and came away with several paintings — small ones, primarily because I’m running out of wall space! After I bought them I gave Francie a call and she was tickled to hear that ‘one artist appreciates another one.’ Talking with her was really my pleasure!”
Photos of the Painting Patty Bought
Greenfield and BWS Proudby Kathy Barton
John William Vawter (187l to 1941), from Greenfield, Indiana was an American landscape artist and illustrator known for his broad strokes and loose impressionistic style.
The Hancock County Arts Center, under the leadership of Show Chair, Carol Barrett, sponsored a Will Vawter Art Show in conjunction with the dedication of a Will Vawter statue. The Bloomington Watercolor Society was well represented with Sandy Hall having two pieces in the show and Betty Wagoner, Kathleen Barton and Joanne Shank each having three pieces. Our deepest congratulations to those BWS members who participated.
An example of Will Vawter’s artwork “Spirit at the Falls” by Kathleen Barton
Betty Wagoner at the Will Vawter Art Show Sandy Hall at the Will Vawter Art Show20 North Gallery, Will Vawter Art Show
Sharing What We Have Been Up To?
Because most of what we know about art we learn from being in the presence of others, sharing our work is one of the most important and enjoyable aspect of becoming a member of the Bloomington Watercolor Society. As editors of our Newsletter, Nancy Metz and I wish to thank all of the members who elected to share their work in this edition. Your contributions make the Newsletter worth reading and our roles enjoyable.
Robin Edmundson
Robin Edmundson reported that two of her pieces were accepted into Juried Exhibitions. “Bluebell Wood – Just Starting to Bloom” was accepted in the WSI Exhibit 2020 Show and “Midwinter Sky & Birds” was accepted into the Hoosier Salon Exhibition. Congruations Robin!!!
Susan Savastuk
Susan Savastuk says she has been experimenting with pointillism marker portraits and landscapes
Carol Rugers Richard
Carolyn Rogers Richard wrote saying “I somehow didn’t see last month’s request for newsletter information. I was one of the Featured Artists at Hoosier Artist Gallery at 45 S. Jefferson St. in Nashville for the month of July.”
Patty Uffman
Patty Uffman wrote saying “Here are the paintings I have completed this month.”
Jacki Frye
Jacki Frye wrote saying, “This was done in the past month when we visited Yellowstone. The weather was perfect and we had a wonderful assortments of clouds and storms in the mountains. I’ve been doing a series of studies of sky and clouds.”
Nina Ost
Nina Ost sent in a picture that probably rings true to all of us in the Bloomington Watercolor Society who are trying to enjoy our flower gardens. Nina writes, “I’ve been playing with collage. This is a nod to the damn deer in my yard. I’ve entitled it ‘Welcome to the Burbs.'”
Carla Hedges
Carla Hedges has been busy, busy, busy. “I’ve been painting flowers and I’m really enjoying it.” As you can see, she has a beautiful series going.
Bess Lee
Bess Lee contributed ‘Save Our Mother,’ a painting she completed in Carol Rhodes and Nancy Metz’ class, ‘Discovering Your MUSEum.’ The concerned expressions on the faces of the angels are lovely Bess, as is your message to the world.
Suzanne Thorin
Suzanne Thorin. “I took a class on July 23rd with Sarah Roche sponsored by a group called Arty Classes, which comes from England. Sarah is the director of the Botanical Arts program at Wellesley. This is my rose from that class. Sarah is doing a master class on painting leaves in October. This Zoom class was international with Sarah working and teaching from Cohasset, MA and the convener from a suburb of London.”
Claude Cookman
Claude Cookman wrote to say, “I feel so lucky to be able to putter away my time trying to make art.
I’ve been doing watercolor over a silverpoint drawing. Here is a bit of history. The graphite pencil was not developed until the mid 1500s. Like most new technologies, it took time until it was widely adopted. Before that, artists drew with ink, charcoal, chalk, and — one of their favorite mediums — metal. They used gold, copper, and lead, but especially liked silver.
A few weeks ago, I began experimenting with silverpoint. I put a piece of silver wire in a mechanical pencil holder and draw on a board coated with gesso that contains an abrasive. The medium is extremely responsive and, if you do it right — that is, with great patience — will produce very delicate drawings. Over time, the silver takes on a patina, which darkens the drawing. I am also experimenting with gold, copper, brass, and solder (a lead alloy) wires. Each metal gives a different tone.
Below is still life of peaches drawn in silverpoint. Following the practice of some Renaissance artists, I added watercolor to produce the second image. This proved quite tricky. On regular paper, the watercolors sink into the paper, but they sit up on top of the gesso surface. It’s hard to get a consistent wash. For this image, I applied several thin glazes, which has worked for me with ink drawings. The result on gesso was streaked with ugly blotches and harsh edges. So, one small area at a time, I dampened the painting with a clean brush and wiped away most of the color, yielding this lightly tinted image.
This was a great learning experience, but I probably will not do it again. First, because the watercolor is so difficult to control on gesso. Primarily, because the paint obscures the shimmering quality of the metal drawing.”
Lynne Gilliatt
Lynne Gilliatt regularly invites artist friends to her shaded driveway to paint. On this particular morning she was joined by Nancy Metz (front) and Carol Voelker (back).
Nancy Davis Metz
Nancy Davis Metz wrote to say that she had just finished her Covid-19 painting which she is calling “Social Distancing.” Nancy’s mastery of glazing is evident in the stunning painting she submitted.
Sara Steffy
Sara Steffy wrote saying, “I just got the news that my acrylic, ‘BeeBalm,’ has been accepted in the Jasper, Indiana 27th Annual Juried Exhibit. The Exhibit will be at the Krempp Gallery and run from September 2 to September 27. More information is available at www.jasperarts.org.
Barbara Coffman
Barbara Coffman sent in two of the many paintings of the trees at Yellowwood that she worked on while taking Nancy Metz and Carol Rhodes’ class entitled “Discovering Your MUSEum.” Barbara’s initial inspiration for how to paint the trees came from seeing Hale Woodruff’s painting, entitled “Twilight,” at the Chicago Institute of Art. From there it was all play and experimentation and, might I add, to great effect!
`Meri Reinhold
Meri Reinhold wrote saying, “I just have one picture to include. Titled: Surrounded.” While Meri captures the softer side of the Covid-19 pandemic, she also captures its pervasiveness and danger.
Jerome Harste
“I’ve been doing a series on ‘hands.” I’m calling this gouache collage (I used an actual shoe string), ‘Mending Our Flag.’ I started this hand series in Carol Rhodes and Nancy Metz’ ‘Discovering Your MUSEum’ online course. The inspiration for this particular painting came from several sources. First, the layout for the hands comes from a photograph by Georgia O’Keefe which I found at the Art Institute of Chicago. I loved how the positioning of the hands led the eye through the photograph. Further inspiration came from my study of Matisse and his use of thick black outlining of objects in his painting. (About four times as thick as any outlining I had previously even tried.) My third source of inspiration came from the Black Live Matter protests and Trump’s use of police to quell what he calls riots.
Remembering Our History
Our BWS Historian, Linda Branstetter, sent in the following report: “I found that from July 7th to the 17th in 2010, BWS watercolor artists were invited to paint pictures of the musicians at the USA International Harp Competition during rehearsals. The following were the artists that participated. Gillian Harris, Joanne Shank, Rosemary Messick, Jacki Frey, Dan Alexander, Bess Lee, Sherry Curry, Cathy Korinek, Betty Wagoner, Jo Weddle, and Tricia Heiser Wente.
Cathy Korinek’s Painting from 10 years ago.
Tricia Heiser Wente send in some of the painting she did at the event, saying, “We were painting in almost total darkness, and had to be extra careful not to make a sound! No swishes of water or dropping brushes etc. It was a very intense, but I enjoyed painting while listening to the beautiful music. I miss seeing you and all my BWS friends.”
Outside BWS
Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition
Call for Entries: The 76th Anniversary Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition will open November 6th and close on January 10 , 2021. Current and former residents of Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan and Ohio are invited to submit from 1 to 5 original works. $10 entry fee per work. $5,000 in prizes to given! Work can be submitted from now until September 18th.
Watercolor Society of Indiana
WSI’s Exhibit 2020 opens on August 7 and runs through September 26 at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony will be a recorded ceremony, available on the WSI website. The show will also be online in addition to being an in-person event.
Hoosier Art Salon
The 15th Annual Hoosier Salon’s Membership Show, “Good Ole’ Summertime,” will be held at the New Harmony Gallery and be open to the public from August 1 to September 6 from 12 p.m. to 4 p. m. each day. The Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony will be held on August 1 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The Gallery is located at 507 Church Street.
The Hoosier Art Salon’s 96th Annual Exhibition will be held from August 29 to October 25 at the Indiana History Museum, 650 W. Washington, St., Indianapolis. $20,000 in awards will be made with $5,000 going to best in show. The awards ceremony will be online scheduled for August 27 at 6 pm EST via Zoom for the accepted artists. We wish the best of luck to our members who entered paintings that were accepted.
Desiderata Art Show
Kathleen Barton, BWS Program Chair, reported that artists have until August 21 to get their entries submitted to the Desiderata Art Show. See the flyer below for details.
Upland Plein Air Welcomes Us To Join Them as a Guest
Upland Plein Air continues to have paint outs—at least two per month during our quarantine. Upland invites you to come along to one of their events as a guest. Upland observes COVID 19 protocols and practices social distancing. Members drive separately, wear masks, bring their own chairs, and spread out easily for a few hours of fun and creativity in a small group setting. This is working well as everyone is conscientious and so pleased to still have this activity during these difficult times. Please contact Kristen Stamper at uplandpleinair@gmail.com to learn when the next event is planned.
Here is a watercolor painting by Andy Roberts, from the BWS and Upland together paint out organized by Betty Wagoner at Yellowwood shelter on June 28.
Bloomington Portrait Group invites You to Take the challenge
First, a bit of history: The Bloomington Portrait Group began in January 2017 as an offshoot of the Upland Plein Air Painters, then a sister organization of the Bloomington Watercolor Society. It was too cold to paint outside, and the group was looking for a winter activity. Somebody suggested a portrait session. About eight artists met at Jacki Frye’s home in Ellettsville. Claude Cookman recruited the first model and has coordinated the sessions since.
BPG is extremely informal: no dues, no membership application, no organizational meetings. Artists show up and paint or draw. And they are welcome to work in any medium. During normal times, the group meets for two hours every other Thursday at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church. Participants share the cost of the model fee, a minimum of $3, but never more than $5 thanks to a system devised by Treasurer Meri Reinhold.
BPG had its first exhibition at the Monroe County Public Library during October 2018. A second, scheduled for last April, had to be postponed. The group expects to hold that exhibition and resume regular sessions — drawing and painting from live models — when a vaccine for Covid-19 becomes available.
Cookman strives to recruit models who reflect Bloomington’s rich diversity in age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Models have included Asians, African-Americans, gay, and transgendered individuals. The youngest model was 8; the oldest a nonagenarian. More recently, he has also recruited people who help make Bloomington a great place to live. They include IU First Lady Laurie Burns McRobbie, radio personality Tom Rosnowski, WFIU Soul Kitchen host Brother William Morris, retired Unitarian-Universalist minister Bill Breeden, Judge Francie Hill, and IU Women’s Basketball star Alexis Gassion. The one thing all models have in common is their interesting faces.
When the quarantine shut down everything, MarySue Schwab suggested, instead of portraits, that artists create self portraits. Cookman expanded her idea into a monthly challenge intended to keep participants active in their studios. To date, the challenges have been: April, self portrait; May, portrait of a loved one; June, portrait of a pet; and July, portrait in a new medium. The Herald-Times published an article about the self portraits with several images. The pet challenge drew the most enthusiastic response.
The August challenge is to draw or paint a portrait of a statue. This charcoal drawing of a bust of Wendell Wilkie in the Indiana Memorial Union is an example. BPG welcomes any artist at any level, working in any medium. If you would like full details on the statue challenge and/or to be put on the BPG email list, please email Cookman at: ccookman@indiana.edu
Self Portrait • Joanna Samorow-Merzer • Graphite and Colored Pencil Ella, a Labrador mix • Susan Vaugh – graphiteWendell Wilkie bust • Claude Cookman • charcoal on gray toned paper
August Calendar
Important
Dates!!
(Art Work from Jeanne Dutton’s Journal)
August 1 to August 29: Submissions accepted to the Desiderata Art Show.
August 1 to September 1 : Submissions accepted to the 76th Annual Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition.
August 1 to September 6: 15th Annual Hoosier Salon Membership Show at the New Harmony Gallery.
August 7 to September 26: Watercolor Society of Indiana Exhibit 2020 open at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
August 8: Bloomington Watercolor Society ‘s Paint-Out at the Woolery and Clear Creek Trail.
August 10: Bloomington Watercolor Society ‘s Monthly Zoom Meeting from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. followed by an Art Card Program from Joanne Weddle from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
August 29 to October 25: Opening of the Hoosier Art Salon’s 96th Annual Exhibition at the Indiana History Museum.
6 p.m., Business Meeting, via Zoom. Incoming President Joanna Samorow-Merzer Presiding
Joanna Samorow-Merzer
I am very honored to be chosen as the new president of the Bloomington Watercolor Society.
BWS is an organization premised on an explicit devotion to watercolor, and an implicit appreciation of camaraderie as a source of inspiration, support, insight, and joy as we all seek to grow as artists.
I assume the office of president of BWS at a time when, unfortunately, that vital camaraderie is challenged. At the present time, due to the coronavirus, physically gathering as a group clearly presents too great a health risk. We do not currently know if the situation will return to normal in a matter of months, or a year, or—let us hope not—even longer.
And so our challenge is to maintain a virtual camaraderie and to keep the spirit and mission of BWS alive through Zoom and perhaps other technologies. For me, and perhaps for many of you, it’s not an easy adaptation.
But I will undertake to keep BWS active and our membership connected even during this period of unwelcome isolation. We will strive to find new ways to exhibit our art. Let’s resolve to use this period of time to be productive as artists!
7 p.m. Program via Zoom: Discovering Your MUSEum… Carol Rhodes Nancy Davis Metz
Nancy Davis Metz & Carol Rhodes
Program Description:
Feeling a bit cooped up? Dying to visit your favorite art museum, or any museum, for that matter? Needing a spark to ignite your creativity during this pandemic?
Carol Rhodes and Nancy Metz will show you how to tour the museums of the world in search of what inspires you. You will get a quick tutorial on how to do a quick sketch of an artpiece and a few tips on how translate the inspiration in to your own work.
Supplies: Sketchbook or paper, pencil
BWS Outgoing President’s Report
New Officers Outgoing President: Patricia Uffman New Role:: 1st Vice President
Kitty Garlock, 2nd VP
Carol Rhodes, Treasurer
Melissa Adkins, Sectretary
Joanna Samorow-Merzer, President
As outgoing president I want to thank Bloomington Watercolor Society: Officers, Chairs, Volunteers, and each and every Member! Your continuing efforts and support have kept us going and growing! Our organization is a myriad group of interesting, talented, good-natured people who enjoy belonging to a group that encourages the art of watercolor – something we all share in common. Our members are deeply invested in our organization – I have been delighted to see phenomenal involvement from our members with virtually everything from participating in shows to volunteering for refreshments to stepping up to serve on the board and committees. I applaud every one of you!
Bloomington Watercolor Society has gone through an extraordinary year on many fronts. The year began with the cancellation of our first meeting in September due to the resurfacing of the parking lot at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church where we have customarily held our monthly meetings. Aside from our traditional holiday party in December, we resumed our monthly meetings there, as normal, from October through March. Then the world was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic and we joined our global neighbors by reformulating our lives and activities.
Bloomington Watercolor Society was determined to keep creativity flowing in spite of new restrictions placed on public gatherings. When health protocols prohibited holding our meetings at St. Mark’s, we put technology to work. Charlotte Griffin and Carol Rhodes took the reins and laid the groundwork for our continuing meetings.
Our first Zoom meeting in April was a first for BWS as well as for many of our members. We were pleased to find out that even in a world of “social distancing” we could still connect and share our art and camaraderie. May and June Zoom meetings were technically smoother and we ended the year with recognition of the outgoing board. I want to thank each member of the executive board for devoting time and effort to keep BWS running smoothly.
1st VP – Kitty Garlock 2nd VP – Jane Matranga Secretary – Suzanne Thorin Treasurer – Carol Rhodes
Committee chairs are an integral part of the board, often working “behind the scenes” to ensure the success of BWS. For their continual willingness to do what it takes to make it happen, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation. BWS thrives as a result of their combined voluntary efforts!
Activities – Katya Alexeeva Brushstrokes – Nancy Metz and Jerry Harste Finance – Carol Rhodes, Kathy Barton, and Jacqueline Ferrenette Historian – Candi Bailey Nominating – Bob Burris, Dawn Cartwright, and Sara Steffey-McQueen Programs – Jo Weddle Paint-out – Betty Wagoner Publicity – Cassidy Young Refreshments – Carla Hedges Scholarship – Jeanne Dutton Show – Jessica McKinney Technology – Charlotte Griffin and Carol Rhodes
I am happy to welcome members stepping into leadership positions on our new board. Each one brings unique talents and qualities to help guide our organization as it continues to evolve. Our executive board for 2020-21 will be:
New committee chairs joining current committee chairs for 2020-21 include: Activities – Cassidy Young Publicity – Kriste Lindberg Show – Kathy Barton Historian – Linda Branstetter
Our BWS Scholarship Winner, Mikah Mevis, could not attend the June meeting, but Kitty Garlock offered brief remarks about Mikah’s selection and interest in art.
At the outset of the year our original plein air group became a separate organization. Although a few members initially expressed concern about how drastically BWS might be affected, as the year progressed we realized that our ups and downs are quite normal, and by June of 2020 our membership total was virtually equal to the prior year. Although some members did migrate from BWS to the plein air group, others remained in both, and a number of new members were added to our roster. All in all, we were pleased to see our organization remain strong, creative, and resilient.
Gauging from increased participation and compliments offered from those who attended, our shows were very successful. (Offering an array of complimentary snacks continues to attract a loyal fan base.) The selection of The Mill for our Membership Show was impressive, but as a venue proved challenging due to limited hours. Our Show Chair, Jessica McKinney, who recently moved to Indianapolis, summarized the exhibit and compiled recommendations, which will be passed along to our new Show Chair, Kathy Barton.
A variety of interesting programs throughout the year added to our members’ skill and knowledge – and once again I want to thank all our presenters for sharing their time and artistic talents. Although we normally recess for the summer months, in view of the pandemic and its impact on our ability to convene as normal, we have agreed to hold Zoom meetings in July and August. Joanna Samorow-Merzer, our new president, will preside over those meetings and will continue to monitor our regular meeting site, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, to see if and when we will be able to reconvene there.
With great sorrow over the past year we said a final good-bye to two members: Sande Nitti and Deloris Schneider. Their passing was a tremendous personal and artistic loss to us, but we are so grateful for the time we shared with both of them.
Bloomington Watercolor Society is a unique organization with vibrant artists and generous volunteers who have kept it running steadily over the past 15 years, since its inception in 2005. I have been happy to be a part of its history and will enjoy watching it evolve and thrive in the years to come!
To All Our Members: It’s been my pleasure to serve as President for the past year, and I would like to thank you very much for everything you have done to keep BWS such a vital organization during my tenure and into the future!
Patty Uffman
Inside BWS
Karst Farm Part Paint-Out
July 11, 9 am-12
Betty Wagoner writes: “This park will be a real treat. It offers lots to inspire an artist. According to the Monroe County description, it is named for “its rolling terrain.” It is the site of the former county poor farm. Features include open prairies, woodlands, ponds, athletic fields, ball parks, picnic shelters, walking trails, children’s play areas, restrooms and parking. It is located near the airport off of Airport Rd.
Go to https://mcparksandrec.org/wp/ for more information and a map. Clicking on the menus will reveal photos of areas of the park. For instance, photos of the woodlands and natural areas can be found under the Programs menu.”
Yellowwood Paint Out, June 20
Photos by Betty Wagoner
It was a beautiful day at the Yellowwood Lake Shelter for the first BWS paint-out of the year. Although it was hot in Bloomington, the lake and a breeze cooled us to a pleasant temperature.There were 10 painters plus three who came by for a visit. Claude shared a container of much appreciated home-baked muffins. The lake cooperated with alternating calm, reflective waters and breeze generated waves, plus variations of color. Being a Saturday, the lake was filled with canoes and kayaks of many types and colors. A definite plus for plein air painting. Everyone was pleased to be reconnecting and painting outdoors while maintaining safe distancing
Patricia Coleman: How to Create and Share Your Videos
If you, like me, are wanting to do demonstrations and/or share video recording, here is what I learned.
First off, if you are going to create video demonstrations you will definitely need a tripod to hold you iPhone, iPad, or camera. Set up your camera so that the frame includes whatever you want to have in your video.
Most people recording classes are also using a web camera so that they can have a focus on themselves and their demonstration. If you have a web camera, you are fortunate because when I last checked, there are still none available in Bloomington stores. I ordered one and was told that it will arrive sometime in August.
Create a rough script of everything you wish to cover and begin by practicing setup and recording in your desired location. Gather everything you will be using and have it where you can easily reach it.
If you go to ‘The Wellness Art Cafe: Creatively Being’ to check out my videos, you will see various videos that I have created using my iPhone, iPad, and most recently my Mac Desktop using Photo Booth for story reading and storytelling. I mostly use the sound recording inside of my computer. I also have been setting up an audio book recording studio, but this a work in progress. At present I have a Blue Yeti microphone and pop-up screen to use when recording stories. You will also see that as I am reading a story I present the text using voice over and often insert music. The Mac Desktop, iPad and iPhone comes with iMovie and Garage Band. These apps make the process of creating multimodal texts very easy.
I encourage you to set up your own YouTube Channel. You can do so by installing a YouTube app. This app allows you to upload your videos directly from your iPhone, iPad or any Mac or android phone or computer. Once installed, you can set it to be private which allows you to download your videos, edit, or re-record before you go public.
If you have not already done so, register for a free private Zoom account. YouTube videos can be shared on Zoom.
If you want to live stream your recordings from YouTube to Zoom you will need to install Open Source Broadcasting (OSB). It is easy to install, just follow the instructions that are provided.
If you use music other than your own, you will have to purchase the rights or get music that is in the public domain. YouTube lists various resources.
“In response to what we did during the pandemic, this has been a very weird Spring. As a cellist I went from having 15 concerts, a wedding and gobs of rehearsals scheduled to nothing–as have most musicians. So I painted a lot! I painted a young friend who is on the flute faculty at a small college in Los Angeles. She wonders what the future will hold for her as a musician and new faculty member. I tried to capture that pensiveness.”
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Susan Savastuk
“I have been trying some collage work. Above is a portrait of Lynne Gilliatt which I recently completed.”
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Candice Bailey
“This painting is a pen and ink with watercolor which I haven’t tried for years and years.”
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MarySue Schwab
“I have been working on paintings that I have wanted to rework. It has been fun improving, and even completely changing some of my artwork. I am excited to add that I have a watercolor painting in the WSI Show at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Newfields. The show will open August 9 and will be on exhibit until September 26. I posted the painting on Facebook and now have over 380 likes! Most ever for me! It is a painting of an old farmhouse on Kent road.” (To see MarySue’s painting go to Outside BWS and read the WSI entry.)
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Robin Edmundson
“Creek, Red Barn” (Watercolor, 10″ x 14″)
“I have a show at The Venue (114 S Grant Street) from July 3-29. If you cannot make the show in person, you can view the show online here: https://www.robinedmundson.com/ramble“
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Jacki Frey
‘Honfleur Dock’
‘McCormick Creek Bridge’
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Jerry Harste
“Boat for Rent”
“Since I missed Judy Mudd’s workshop, I decided to attend one of her online workshops. I was surprised with all I learned. I’m particularly pleased with the background in this painting as I never quite understood how to keep a background from overtaking the painting itself. The boat, I admit, leaves a little bit to be desired, but all the more reason to ruin another piece of paper tomorrow. On July 25th Judy is going to have an online workshop on how to paint a rainy street scene. You can bet I’ll be in attendance as I don’t know how to do that either.”
Cassidy Young
“The quarantine has broken down the barriers that divide and compartmentalize my life; home, school, kids, art, and art business, etc. I haven’t yet decided if that is a good thing or not. That said, I am still holding firm to routines and attempting to create good new habits that I can take with me into my new normal. I’m gardening, baking, doing a couch to 5k program, planning and presenting a workshop for Ivy Tech, and working with the Bloomington Open Studio Tour (https://bloomingtonopenstudiostour.com/). I’m failing at planning for my fall semester, because I’m not ready to forecast the future, but taking several teaching and artist workshops to prepare in different ways. This may seem like a lot, but it doesn’t feel like it. I’m still spending time in the hammock and I’ve no interest in creating a large, time consuming, high energy, piece of artwork. I just don’t have the stamina. For me there’s been a lot of self-improvement, practice, and exercise. It’s okay that not everything I make is artwork to be presented. I’m being gentle and kind to myself, being grateful for what I have, and reminding myself that every little bit adds up. Included are exerpts from my visual journal and personal artist exercises.” (See additional sketches in the Photo Gallery.)
Char Dapena
“I’ve been painting some floral cards because I don’t want to go to the store, and some portraits. Attached is a card, plus a portrait of my cat Mango. Both are watercolors. Thanks to Claude Cookman, who has kept the portrait group inspired with monthly portrait ideas.”
Bob Burris
“I drew this several years ago. Looking for something to do, I decided to finish it.”
“The Inn at Irwin Gardens”
Meri Reinhold
“The only finished work I have is my Tanzanian woman portrait and my two cats (RIP). The Tanzanian woman was trying to see my jewelry but I talked her into letting me take her photo instead. The calico is Genny and the Himalayan is Sassy. I think the Tanzanian lady was Maasai, but I’m not certain. I was on my ‘bucket list’ trip in 2014 and did a photo safari through northern Tanzania and southern Kenya.”
Carol Rhodes
“Here is a pandemic entry.”
Nina Ost
My church, St. Thomas Lutheran, has flat parishioners made by members seated in the sanctuary for visual services. This is me.
Outside BWS
Kristen Stamper joins with 11 Bloomington artists for our 2020 Virtual Open Studio Tour featuring video visits for you to enjoy. Take a virtual tour now through July 23 at https://bloomingtonopenstudiostour.com
Kristen Stampler “McCormick Creek”
CALL FOR ENTRIES 15th Annual Member Exhibit Best of Show 2019 Appalachian Dancers by Carol Bosko New Harmony Gallery
August 1 – September 6, 2020 Opening & Awards:Saturday, August 1, 2020, 12 – 4 p.m. Awards Presentation, 4 p.m., on FB Live
PROSPECTUS Pre-registration deadline: July 25. Application Fee: $25 before July 15 or $30 after July 15 until July 25, 2020.
You must be a current 2020 artist member of the Hoosier Salon.
Delivery of Art to New Harmony: Sunday, July 26, 1-4 PM or Monday, July 27, 1-4 PM
Watercolor Society of Indiana
The WSI 2020 Annual Juried Exhibition is scheduled to open at the Indianapolis Museum of Art @ Newfields beginning August 7 and running through September 26th. The opening reception will be held on August 9 at the IMA, DeBoest Lecture Hall at 2 p.m. MarySue Schwab and Jerry Harste had their paintings accepted for the WSI 2020 Annual Juried Exhibition. Jerry will be receiving signature status in WSI at the opening reception on August 9th.
MarySue Schwab’s painting, “Old Farmhouse on Kent Road”
Jerry Harste’s painting, “A Steadying Force”
Picture Gallery
Yellowwood Photos by Babette Ballinger & Betty Wagoner
Cassidy’s Young’s Journal
Andy Roberts
Yellowwood Paint Out Joanna Samorow-Merzer
Cathy Korinek
Carol Rhodes
Henry Leck
Claude Cookman
Kitty Garlock
Barbara Coffman
Kathy Barton
Yellowwood Paint Out Barbara Coffman, Kitty Garlock, & Babette Ballinger
July Calendar
I asked Jeanne Dutton if she would share the July Calendar she painted in he personal journal. Here is what she said in regard to her painting:
“The larkspur is the flower of the month, so I included it along with a few bursts of splatters for fireworks. Traditionally, Native Americans called this full moon the Buck Moon because a buck’s antlers are in full growth mode at this time. This year, the full buck moon rises on the 4th of July!
The tiny landscape next to the canton area of my “flag” is a reminder of one of my favorite songs, one that always touches the heart…”America the Beautiful.” Katharine Lee Bates was inspired to write the original poem as she stood at the top of Pikes Peak. If you’ve ever been there and stood on the summit, you can understand how she would have been so inspired!
Remember These Dates
July 1-25 Prospectus Due: Hoosier Art Salon
July 3-29 Robin Edmundson’s Show at Venue
July 11 Karst Farm Park Paint Out (9 a.m. to 12 p.m.)
July 13 BWS Business Meeting (6 p.m.) BWS Program (7 p.m.)
August 1-Sept. 6 Hoosier Art Salon Show, New Harmony Gallery7
Painting pictures with extreme darks and lights can be a challenge but once you see the tricks that make them work they can become fascinating attention-getters. Depth of color layers and untouched whites can make all the difference, so the March program will cover pointers and techniques for painting dark or nighttime scenes. Carol Rhodes’ February lesson on negative painting was a great precursor for this presentation!
Bring your usual materials but if you have masking tape and/or masking fluid be sure to bring it along — it can make things so much easier for some pictures. Do not feel you need to have a big piece of paper — it can be 6” x 9” or smaller. It would be helpful, however, to have your paper mounted on something you can easily tilt.
Inside BWS
A big thanks to Carol Rhodes for her presentation on negative painting at the February meeting of the BWS. Carol stressed the importance of knowing how to define objects and create effects by using dark areas in works. “Negative painting refers to creating positive elements by painting the empty spaces around or within them.”
Carol Rhodes and Barbara Coffman, Sharon Parsons
Jill Olshavsky reported that the February 15 “Rural Landscape Workshop” presented by Judy Mudd of Louisville filled with 20 watercolorists. “Judy explained that she almost always uses an architectural element for her focal point, and she provided a photo of a Southern Indiana barn scene. Beginning with a value sketch, Judy showed us how to alter a photo so that lines such as those from a building, hillside, fence line, cloud, shadow, etc. lead the viewer’s eye to the focal point. Mixing colors on the canvas rather than on her palette and keeping the paper wet allows Judy to keep a neutral tone in the landscape (she uses purple and Daniel Smith’s neutral tint) and soft edges. Many were able to complete their painting and a round of applause thanked Judy for her demonstrations and individual guidance.”
Debbi Tocco and Judy Mudd Jo Weddle and Jacqueline Fernette Phillip Bow, Susan Farley and Jill Olshavsky
When asked how the The Art of Chocolate went, Jeanne Dutton’s response was “It was just super, as always. Robin Edmundson, Charlotte Griffin, and I painted greeting cards and sold sixteen! The Art of Chocolate recipe book was a success and sold well, too. Several chefs and businesses have made commitments for next year’s Volume II.
All the recipe paintings were on display next to where Nancy Metz was painting at her easel. Her tulip painting drew much attention and sold at the end of the night.
Thank you, over and over, to the artists who illustrated the recipes, entered the exhibit, and participated at the keynote event February 22. BWS, you can be proud of your contribution to a very worthy cause!” (See Photo Gallery for other pictures taken at the Art of Chocolate)
Jeanne Dutton and Charlotte Griffin, at The Art of Chocolate.
2nd Reception:”We Paint the Sweet Life”
During Gallery Walk
March 6, 5-8 p.m.
The Vault at Gallery Mortgage
122 E 6th, Bloomington.
Here is a reminder from Jeanne Dutton: “John La Bella at Gallery Mortgage provided refreshments for the Opening Reception, so it’s our turn now. Can you bring something? We are still celebrating the Month of Chocolate, but anything you’d like to bring is fine.
AND…those beautiful recipe books illustrated by your fellow BWS artists arrived and will be there for sale! $15 each and please plan to pay by cash or check made to LIFEDesigns (…that works best). We hope to have a Square available for credit card use, but not positive about that.
If you illustrated a recipe and have not received your complimentary copy, I can bring it to the reception or to the BWS meeting the following Monday. Again, please let me know.
Once again, THANK YOU for supporting LIFEDesigns and the valuable work it does in the community for folks with disabilities. YOU are helping BWS make a difference in people’s lives.”
Below: Maura Frances Stanton’s painting “Sweet Reflections,” was used on the cover of the program for the Art of Chocolate gala dinner.
Betty Wagoner wrote to say that more information about Paint Outs was coming as we get closer to actual dates, but for now, she wanted to remind everyone to save these dates:
April 11 — Wild Flower Walk and Paint Out in McCormick’s Creek State Park with Gillian Harris, botanical artist.
May 16 — Yellowwood Lake Shelter Paint Out.
June 6-7 — Bloomington Garden Club Walk Paint Out.
Congratulations are in order for Sara Steffey McQueen who had her painting “Beebalm” juried into AquaAventure 2020. Her painting will be available for viewing from March 12to April 24 at the LexArts/Art Place Gallery, 161 North Mill Street, Lexington, KY 40507.
“Beebalm” by Sara Steffey McQueen
Stephen Edwards sent in a note saying he received an Honorable Mention at the Pennsylvania Watercolor Societies Member Show for his painting titled “Forgotten Holiday”. Congratulation Stephen.
Stephen Edwards painting “Forgotten Holiday.”
Talk about have a Good Day!!! Andy Roberts reported that he sold 8 paintings at the Sanibel Captiva Art Fair on February 23th. Congratulations Andy!!!
Andy Roberts and his wife Marsha at the Sanibel Art Show
Joanne Shank wrote to say that she has a show coming up at By Hand Gallery during the month of April. Opening reception is April 3rd.
Also Joanne Shank’s painting “Bee Sweet” won Best of Show at the Art of Chocolate. Congratulations Joanne. Jerome Harste’s painting “Some Pig” received Honorable Mention.
Outside BWS
The New Harmony Hoosier Salon Gallery announced that the First Blush of Spring Art Show will be held April 15-18. The show is advertised as “your opportunity to view and purchase art by Hoosier artists.” The New Harmony Gallery is located at 507 Church Street in New Harmony, Indiana.
In addition, Linda Volz, the curator of the New Harmony Salon, announced that there will be TWO opportunities for artists to sell art during this year’s Hoosier Salon Paint Out on April 17 & 18. The first is the traditional Ribeyre Center Art Sale will take place on April 18 from 9 am–2 pm. The second, and new this year is a Pop-Up Gallerie Sale to be held at The Ribeyre Annex on April 17-18. The Ribeyre Center is located at the corner of Main and Tavern Streets, under the clock tower. For details on scheduled events at the Hoosier Salon Art Show and/or how to participate in one or both of these events go to https://hoosiersalon.org/2019-first-brush-of-spring-workshops.
The 2020 Will Vawter Juried Art Show will run for April 10-25 at the Hancock Art Gallery, 20 North State Street, Greenfield, Indiana 46140. Any and all artists residing in Indiana are encouraged to submit entries by March 21st. Awards and prizes will be given at the Opening Reception on April 10 from 7 to 9 p.m.
LOOKING FOR AN NEW EXHIBITION OPPORTUNITY? WHY NOT CONSIDER THE TWITTER ART EXHIBIT 2020?
Artists worldwide donate postcard-sized, handmade original artwork to the TAE. All submission are published in an Annual coffee-table sized art book.
TwitterArtExhibit organizes a local, physical showcasing of the art.
The public is invited to buy the art at an affordable, flat price.
The deadline for a donation of a small, postcard sized, piece of art to this year’s #TAE 2020 is March 15. In order to enter participants must register at http://twitterartexhibit.org/registration/.
This year’s physical show will be from April 3 to April 15 at the William H. Miller Studies & Fine Art at 714 Main Street, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. All proceeds will go to the children and adults with disabilities. Typically between 700 and 1,000 artists worldwide participate. All work is available for sale at the studio and online starting April 7.
Cate Whetzel, Program Developer for the T. C. Steele State Historic Site announced that on Sun. April 19, T. C. Steele State Historic Site will waive admission for artists participating in the Arts of the Earth Day Program! To participate, artists who wish to work outdoors will be set up and working between 11 am and 4 pm on the day of the program.
“We hope to have artists of all mediums! Arts of the Earth is a program to welcome spring and the return of warm weather, and to offer our visitors an inspiring day outdoors. We will have an Arts in the Parks workshop in the Large Studio, as well as the installation of an outdoor sculpture beside the Visitor Center, and we hope to have a variety of artists working around the site, who are willing to chat with interested visitors. Although we cannot guarantee it, it’s likely the daffodils will be in bloom! If an artist wishes to participate in Arts of the Earth Day and would like to be painting or working outdoors between 11am-4pm on April 19th, they should email me (museumcommunication@indianamuseum.org) with their name and estimated timeframe at the site (ex. Cate Whetzel, 12-3 p.m.), and I’ll create a guest list of participating artists for free admission at the Visitor Center.”
Registration for The 2020 Watercolor Society of Indiana Membership Exhibit is now open and will close on May 1. All WSI members who have paid 2019 membership dues may register ONE watermedia painting for exhibition. Paintings exhibited in prior juried shows ARE eligible. Paintings MAY be for sale.
The Membership Exhibit will open on Saturday May 9 at the Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis. On Saturday, May 16, 2020 WSI invites you to join fellow members to view the exhibit, attend a buffet lunch in McFarland Hall, enjoy the 2020 James C. Lentz scholarship presentation as well as view the 2020 WSI juried exhibit entries. The show will close Saturday July 6. Painting pick-up is Saturday, July 11.
Special Report
Must See Show in Columbus—A LOOK AT RELATIVE ART by Kitty Garlock
The pictures are: First, one of many different pieces by Catherine. The second is a mixed media piece by Lydia
“At our last meeting members encouraged people to go see Bob Burris’s show in Columbus IN, so Kathy and Craig Barton joined me in a jaunt eastward to see what it was all about. We were not disappointed! “A Look at Relative Art” is the name Bob has given the art exhibit now showing on two floors at The Columbus Learning Center through May 7th (open M-F 7 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Sat. appointments only; Closed Sun.). It is actually, as the title implies, a family show consisting of three Burris artists and two generations…him, his wife, and their daughter. Bob’s works, as most of you know, are often beautiful architectural w atercolors with delightful detail and light washes. The works you may not be familiar with is by his wife and daughter.
His daughter Lydia, besides teaching art at Ivy Tech, keeps a studio in Indianapolis, where she creates images with “the sense of dreams: a place of ambiguity, emotion, and surrealism.” Her work can take you to places of fantasy with whimsy or deep into other places with some more intense colors and images.
Bob says his wife Catherine “had a passion for patterns, texture, hidden detail, and unexpected imagery” and she demonstrates it in beautiful, provocative, fascinating ways. Catherine, who passed in 2011, had been known to say “Look closer and listen to the story” and her work makes you do just that! It really grabbed me and made me concentrate on what I was seeing and made me try to figure out how she did it! She worked with collages and layer-over-layer of extremely fine acrylic washes and tissue paper and cloth. Anything was grist for the mill actually, from old medical journals to door frames to doll heads. Then they were melded together in with all kinds of medium from wire and screws to pastels and paints. The show has a wonderful variety of her pieces.
Altogether this talented family makes a show that says to me “Stunning! A must see and well worth a trip to Columbus!” If you haven’t gone yet be sure you do, otherwise, you can’t really “listen to the story”! Don’t miss it!”
Kitty, Craig & Kathy Barton off to Columbus!!
Photo Gallery
First Row: Nancy Metz’ painting “Tulips” 2nd Row: Nancy Metz hard at work; Joanne Weddle’s winning logo; Cassidy Young creating a chocolate masterpiece 3th Row: Greeting Cards; Original Paintings in Cookbook; Robin Edmundson 4th Row: Betty Wagoner, Carla Hedges, Deanne Ferguson , Robin Edmundson, and Charlotte Griffin, Barbara Coffman, Nancy Metz, Jeanne Dutton
Calendar
March 9 — BWS Meeting, 6 pm St. Marks
March 12 — First day to see Sara Steffey McQueen’s painting at the Art Place Galley in Lexington.
March 17 — St. Patrick’s Day. Paint a shamrock and give it to a friend.
March 21 — Entries due to the 2020 Will Vawter Juried Art Show.
April 3 — Joanne Shank’s show opens at By Hand Gallery.
April 11 — Wild Flower Walk and Paint Out in McCormick’s Creek State Park with Gillian Harris, botanical artist
April 15-18 — The First Blush of Spring Art Show opens at the New Harmony Hoosier Salon.
April 17-18 — Hoosier Salon Paint Out and Art Sale, New Harmony
April 19 — T. C. Steele’s Earth Day Celebration. Free admission to artists who wish to paint during the event.
May 1 — Last day to register for the WSI Membership Show.
May 7 – Last day to see Bob Burris Show at the Columbus Learning Center.
An important component of a watercolorist’s skill set is knowing how to define objects and effect depth by carefully creating dark areas in their works. The term “negative painting” refers to creating positive elements by painting the empty spaces around or within them. In tutorial fashion, we will paint a simple wooded scene from a light foreground of trees that progressively disappear into darkness.
Bring your favorite supplies consisting of a small piece of watercolor paper (9”x12” max), paints in any colors ranging from light to dark, brushes, and simple painting implements (e.g., mixing surfaces, water container and towels), plus a pencil with eraser.
OPENING RECEPTION
“WE PAINT…the Sweet Life!”
Life is sweet and you’ve painted it! Come to the Opening Reception during Gallery Walk on Friday, February 7, 5:00 – 8:00 pm at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage.
At 6 p.m. the Best of Show and Runner Up will be announced, along with the winner of the Art of Chocolate tickets. Cellist Jewel Evans will provide the music, and the Vault will bring the refreshments.
The Art of Chocolate Recipe Book will be available for purchase, illustrated by your fellow BWS artists, as will the Month of Chocolate tee shirts, design by BWS member Jo Weddle.
All sales benefit LIFEDesigns as it provides services for people with disabilities in our community (100% of recipe book sales and tee shirts; 50% of art sales, with 50% to the artist.).
The Vault is located at 121 E 6th Street in downtown Bloomington, and gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. The show will run February 7 to March 27.
Congratulations to Debra Rush and Jo Weddle. Their artwork graces the cover of the Art of Chocolate Recipe Book and the Art of Chocolate 2020 T-Shirt. Thanks also to Jeanne Dutton for all of her work coordinating and organizing BWS’s contribution to this event.
AND…below you will find a photo of the e-invite to send and share. Thanks to Cassidy Young for helping with publicity and designing the invitation, and thanks to Suzanne Thorin and Penny Lulich for the images of their paintings.
CALLING ALL MEMBERS!
CALLING ALL MEMBERS! You are needed! Do you enjoy your BWS membership? Have you ever thought, “Maybe I should help out a little more?” Then serving a short stint on the Nominating Committee would be a great choice! You would work with two other BWS members to ensure a smooth transition into next year (2020-21).
Based on interests expressed by our members, the Nominating Committee fills vacancies on the board (three this year) and presents a slate to the membership to vote to accept.
Curious? Unclear? Possibly interested? Whatever the case, our president (Patty Uffman) would love to hear from you and would be happy to share more information. Please call or email her. THANK YOU!
Member News
Cassidy Young announced that she is hosting a tour of the remodeled IU Eskenazi Museum for the 2nd of February. She promises to send out more information as that date nears.
Cassidy also announced that she will be teaching a six-week art class on figure drawing at the Waldron this spring.
We also have to thank Cassidy for her excellent January presentation for the Watercolor Society. After the meeting she emailed members copies of the pictures and handouts she used in her presentation. If you still need copies, let Cassidy know.
Kathy Barton has two pieces at “The Art Guild of Brown County” on 48 S. Van Buren Street in Nashville. The reception for the show will be held on February 22nd from 2 to 4 p.m. with an award ceremony at 3 p.m. The show is sponsored by the Indiana Heritage Arts for Patrons of the Guild and Young Artists. (See Photo Gallery for a glimpse at one of the painting she has in the show. You’ll have to go to the show itself to see the other one!
Lynne Gilliat’s show at the is La Vie en Rose Cafe in Bloomington located on West 6th Street is closing on February 6th. Do try to make it if you haven’t already done so. (See the Photo Gallery for some excellent examples of Lynn’s artistic style.)
Andy Roberts is participating in the Sanibel-Captiva Art League Annual at the Community House at Sanibel Island, Florida this February 23rd. The show is a members only show featuring approximately 40 mixed-media artists. Alas, Andy did not send pictures.
Practicing artist collaboratively learning together!! That what BWS is all about.
Mary Sue Schwab recently sold her painting entitled “Blushing Peony” at the ‘Good Ole’ Summertime Show at the Hoosier Art Salon in New Harmony. As Mary Sue was picking up her painting, a couple asked about purchasing it. Congratulations Mary Sue on proving that it is never too late for good things to happen and why it is worth the effort to share our passion with the public. Below are two additional paintings that Mary Sue sold over Christmas. Thanks for inspiring us!
Bob Buriss sent pictures of the Buriss Family Show at the Learning Center in Columbus, Indiana. (See Photo Gallery). A Family Show!!! Congratulations Bob.
Betty Wagoner will exhibit her watercolors at the Meadowood Gallery during the month of February.. The reception will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on February 7th. (See the Photo Gallery for photos of Betty’s solo school at the United Unitarian Church which closes at the end of January. If you didn’t catch the UU Show, the Meadowood show is your new opportunity to admire Betty’s work.
One of the beautiful paintings Betty Wagoner will be showing at Meadowood
Kristi Lindberg’s painting for We Paint the Sweet Life is a Chocolotl! She explains, “The Chocolotl is a rare, distant cousin of the Axoloti. It is made of chocolate and inhabit regions where cacao grows in abundance. Adults mature to be approximately one inch in height and weigh just a few ounces. It is rumored to be good luck to kiss a Chocolti.”
Kristi Lindberg — Watercolor/pen
Outside BWS
Owen County Art Guild (OCAG), located in Spencer, is looking for new teachers and new mediums for their weekly calendar of classes. It would be a volunteer activity, two hours per week. Flexible time slots are available.
Currently, these classes are scheduled: Tuesday, Writing (4 p.m.); Wednesday, Oil Painting (1-4 p.m.); Thursday, Watercolor (11-1 p.m.); Thursday, Drawing (1-3 p.m.) and Saturday, Drawing (Midday).
If you are interested in offering a class, please contact Leslie Gamboa at 812-879-4858.
The Art Alliance of Greater Bloomington has opened ArtBeat at the Mall. Member can show their work as well as use the facility to teach classes and conduct workshops. The fee, for members, is $40 per month and a willingness to volunteer four hours. Contact info@bloomingtonarts.org for more information. One of the up-coming “craft” events that might interest young and old is a Valentine Card Making Session (Feb. 5th from 11 – 12:15 p.m.; repeated on Feb. 8th from 10 — 11:00 a.m.). There is a $15 dollar fee to attend.
February 5, Wednesday at 11:15am-12:15pm, or• February 8, Saturday at 10-11 am Valentine Card Making — I’ll share some of my favorite paper crafting techniques. Lots of fun and all materials supplied. $15
Watercolor Society of Indiana 2020 Waycross Spring Awakening Retreat featuring Stephen Edwards is scheduled for April 24-26. Early registration is encouraged.
Just a heads up!!! Between March 1 and May 8 the WSI will be accepting entries for its 2020 Juried Watercolor Show.
WSI also announced that Keiko Tanabe is conducting a 3-day workshop entitled “Capture Light and Atmosphere in Watercolor” July 8-10 at the Somerse Lakes Clubhouse.
Contact the Watercolor Society of Indiana website (www.watercolorsocietyofindiana.org) for more information on all, or any, of these events.
The Springfield Art Museum in Springfield, Missouri is pleased to announce a call for entries for Watercolor USA 2020, highlighting the very best in contemporary American watermedia. This year’s exhibit will run from June 6 through August 16, 2020. The deadline to apply is February 26, 2020. More information can be found at https://www.sgfmuseum.org/246/Watercolor-USA
The Friends of TC Steele State Historic Site will be holding their Annual Members Art Show from February 8 to February 22, 2020. This year the show will be held at the Brown County Art Gallery (BCAG). The BCAG is located at the corner of Artist Dr & Main St in Nashville, Indiana and the show will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays; 12 to 5 pm on Sundays
The New Harmony Hoosier Art Salon is hosting its Annual Invitational Exhibit of Hoosier Art to Salon members. Drop off is Feb. 4. The show, entitled “Watercolor Invitational” will run February 8 to March 28. Mary Sue Schwab is looking for people who plan to exhibit as she wishes to set up a car-pool.
Photo Gallery
Some photos of the Burris Family Show at the Columbus Learning Center — Compliments of Bob Burris
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Photos of art work in Lynne’s current show.Copywrite by Kathy Barton: A View from the Porch
Photos of Betty Wagoner’s Show at the United Unitarian Church
February’s Calendar
Feb. 2 — Tour the IU Eskenazi Museum with Cassidy Young..
Feb. 4 — Deadline for drop-off of painting for Hossier Salon’s “Watercolor Invitational.”
Holiday Party 2019 Winter Wonderland Holiday Party Wednesday, December 4, 2019
Joanne Weddle announced that the BWS Christmas Party will occur on December 4, with a social beginning at 6:00 and dinner being served at 6:30.pm.
Location: Meadowood Retirement Center, Terrace Room
Cost per person $24 (Vegan meals are available upon request. Contact Jo Weddle. Payment is required via either PayPal or check to our treasurer, Carol Rhodes.
Reservations required by midnight. Wednesday, November 27.
Paintings – This year we are doing “Bring One-Take One.” If you wish to participate, bring a painting – 8 x 10 (inside measurement) matted – not framed. All who bring a painting will take another member’s painting home.
BWS News
Special thanks to Suzanne Thorin for her presentation on painting botanicals at the November meeting.
Deborah Rush
Meri Reinhold
Painting Christmas Cards in the Mall
It is time to sign up for painting Christmas Cards in the Mall. Jessica McKinney and Jerry Harste are coordinating this year’s effort under the tutleage of Jeanne Dutton. As Visiting Artists of The Venue, BWS will have a table where members can paint on Saturdays (11pm to 3pm) and Sundays (12pm to 2pm) from November 16 through December 22. Two volunteers are needed to cover each time slot.
Rose Brenner and Meri Reinhold
Holiday Sale at Hinkle Garton Farmstead
Kathy Barton announced that the Farmstead is having their Holiday Sale on December 7th. If you participated in the May paint out or are participating in Babette Ballinger’s Painted Square Project you are invited to exhibit other small paintings.
We Paint…..The Sweet Life!
Jennie Dutton announced that the theme of the Annual Month of Chocolate is “We Paint…the Sweet Life!” BWS has been invited to submit painting that represent various interpretation of this theme.
Exhibit dates are January 30–March 26 at The Vault (121 E. 6th Street). The Opening Reception is Friday, February 7, 5-8 p.m. A second reception will be held March 6, All sales benefit LIFEDesigns and the artist.
Plan now to enjoy the sweet life at the annual Month of Chocolate exhibit. While you are there discover the Art of Chocolate Cookbook, featuring elegant and specialty recipes from local chefs with illustrations by BWS artists.
Cassidy Young announced that BWS members have the opportunity to share their art in an upcoming issue of the Herald Times. Jennifer Tilly, the Herald Times Arts Editor, is looking for winter scenes.
The deadline is December 11. Send your images to jtilley@heraldt.com. Images should be high-resolution (200 dpi) and appropriate for publication in a family orientated publication.
For more information please contact: Jennifer Tilley, Herald Times Arts Editor, Herald-Times, 812-331-4377.
Announcements
**Lynne Gilliatt will hang her second show (this one featuring portrait paintings) at La Vie en Rose from December 5th through the end of the month. (FYI: The La Vie en Rose is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.)
**For the next couple of weeks, Robin Edmundson has a display of her winter-themed artwork in the window of the Darn Good Group (107 N. College Ave). See her painting “Geese Flying” in the Picture Gallery (below).
**Babette Ballinger sent in a picture of the piece of art Don Geyra painted on site at the Casa fund drive which was later very successfully auctioned off. See photo in the Picture Gallery below.
**Barbara Edmonds wrote to say that she is preparing a spreadsheet of businesses in the Bloomington area that members use to reproduce their art. Using the guidelines below to frame your response, please send your answers directly to her via email at ammasav@gmail.com.
What business do you send your original art to reproduce for greeting cards, postcards and Giclee prints?
Barbara specified that it would be helpful to have the following info on each business.
1. Best quality 2. Best cost for quantity th 3. Archival quality 4. Website 5. Brick and mortar address 6. Phone contact 7. Average turn around time 8. Shipping costs
Beyond BWS
**Nancy Mullins, the Executive Director of the Watercolor Society of Indiana, announced that WSI will be hosting a three day workshop with Keiko Tanabe from July 8-10. If interested, see http://www.watercolorsocietyofindiana.org/ for details on how to reserve one of the 20 slots available.
**Daven Anderson, the Executive Director of the Missouri Watercolor Society, announced that MOWS is now accepting entries for its 2019 International Watercolor Show. See the http://wwwmowsart.com for details. The deadline for entries is December 13.
**John O’Conner, President of the Watercolor Society of Indiana, announced that Stephen Edwards would be the guest artist at WSI”s Waycross Spring Awakening Retreat, April 24-26. See http:/watercolorsocietyofindiana.org/ for more details.
Picture Gallery
. BWS President Patty Uffman, and Char DePena congratulate Henry Leck at the La Vie en Rose Cafe Exhibition
Henry shares a laugh with Katya Alexeeva.
Babette Ballenger makes a point to Henry Leck.
Deborah Rush’ – Christmas Card
Rose Brenner — Christmas Card
Meri Reinhold – Christmas Card
Paintings being shown at the FarmsteadMeri Reinhold, Judy Tirey, & Lynn McCutchen at our November meeting.
“As early childhood educators and in the hopes that members will consider buying a book to give to their grandchildren this Christmas, we’re going to recommend some of our very favorite children’s art books::
The Black Book of Colors, story and illustrations by Menena Cottin and Rosana Faria; translated by Elisa Amado.
The Artist Who Painted A Blue Horse, story and illustrations by Eric Carle.
The Visitor, story and illustrations by Antje Damm.
Ish, story and illustrations by Peter H. Reyonds.
I’ve Painted Everything, story and pictures by Scott Magoon.
Artful Reading, story and illustrations by Bob Raczka.
No One Saw, story and illustrations by Bob Raczka.
Unlikely Pairs , story and illustrations by Bob Raczka.
A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pinnin story by Jen Bryant; illustrations by Melissa Sweet.
The Noisy Paintbox, story by Barb Rosenstock; illustrations by Mary Grandpre.
Beautiful Oops, story and illustrations! by Barnet Saltzberg.”
— Nina Ost & Jerome Harste
“An Island Garden by Celia Thaxter with pictures and illuminations by Childe Hassam (1988) is my answer to the question on my favorite watercolor book. The interior rooms complete with furniture and flowers surprised and inspired me. I wanted to step in and make it my home.” — Lynn Gilliat
January’s IMO:
How do you mix skin tones? Caucasian, African-American, Indian, First Nations? What colors do you choose? –– Barbara Coffman
November’s Meeting will be held at St. Mark’s Church on the Hwy’s 45/46 Bypass from 6 to 8 pm on November 11. Our November meeting will be our last one of the year so don’t miss the chance to come and dip into some warm autumn colors as Suzanne Thorin presents “Painting Botanical: Fall Squash.”
Here is how Suzanne Thorin describes the program she is going to present: “The colors and textures of fall squash invite us to paint them! Their colors include creamy whites, dark greens, browns, and oranges. Many squash have bumps and imperfections that are so rewarding to paint. I will show you examples that botanical artists have created. You can add to these by painting your squash at the November BWS meeting.”
“Bring a squash, tracing paper, pencil, eraser, hot press paper (preferably), paint and smallish brushes. Or, choose a squash from those I will have at the meeting. I will also have hot press paper and tracing paper if you need them.”
Thanks to Jane Matranga
Jane Matranga gave a presentation entitled Painting Pets in Watercolor at our October meeting. As the attached pictures show, her presentation was well received and well attended. In addition to painting on paper, Jane also paints on silk and then uses her paintings to make designer tops and other garments. See her website janematranga.com for more information.
A shot of our Oct. Meeting
Jessica McKinney painting at the October Meeting.
Valerie Long at work on her painting.
In Memory: Sandra L. Nitti
Sandra L. Nitti, an active member of BWS and Upland Plein Air, passed away on September 27, 2019. Her signature style involved a watercolor base overlaid with pastels. She will be dearly missed. Condolences can be shared online with her family at www.nealandsummers.com or sent to her stepdaughter, Marla Nitti at 8552 St. Louis, Skokie, IL 60076.
Sandra Nitti
An example of Sandi’s beautiful painting style.
BWS News
2019 Membership Show. Thanks to everyone who is participating in our Membership Show at the Untitled Light Gallery at the Mill. Thirty two artists have 42 paintings on show. More than 115 people came to celebrate the opening. Special thanks to Jessica McKinney for taking on the job of Chair of our shows this year. The show closes on October 29. If you haven’t gone to see it, now is the time!
Christmas Card Painting at the Mall. Gabe Coleman has given his approval for BWS to paint Christmas cards as part of the Venue’s kiosk at the mall. Jessica McKinney and Jerry Harste have agreed to co-chair this event under the tutelage of Jeanne Dutton, last year’s chair. Jeanne emphasized that our official title is “Visiting Guest Artists of the Venue” and it is important that we act that way, running all requests and transactions through whomever is working the kiosk for the Venue. Needless to say, the chairs need your help, so please sign up to volunteer for a time slot. Two artists are needed for each day. Here are the weekends: November 16 & 17, November 23 & 24, November 30 & December 1, December 7 & 8, December 14 & 15, December 21 & 22. At our November meeting the chairs will pass a sheet around for people to schedule themselves as visiting artists. If you didn’t volunteer last year, you should volunteer this year. It is really fun. Jessica McKinney said it was talking to the artists at the mall last year that convinced her to join BWS. You will hear more about this opportunity by email at the November meeting.
The Art of Chocolate Cookbook. BWS and LIFEDesigns is collaborating on a project to create an Art of Chocolate Cookbook. The deadline is December 1. Recipes have been gathered from area chefs and restaurants. Photos have been submitted and BWS has been invited to illustrate the recipes!
If you want to participate let Jeanne Dutton know and she’ll send you a photo and a copy of a recipe. You can either paint from the photo or make the recipe and paint your final product.
Photo of Charlotte Griffin’s dessert that she is painting: Raspberry Vinaigrette Brownie
For information and prospectus about the cookbook, go here.
Joanne Weddle deserves our congratulations for her winning design for LIFEDesigns‘ 2020 Month of Chocolate! Jo’s entry for the annual tee shirt contest earned her a prize of $100. Tee shirt sales support programs for people with disabilities, including employment and housing. Watch for the shirts next February, along with the Art of Chocolate cookbooks.
Upland Plein Air Paint Outs. Upland has been busy trying to capture Bloomington’s charming neighborhoods in full color this fall. Hopefully, Brown County State Park will be in peak color October 29 as Upland has a paint out scheduled for Tuesday afternoon from 1 pm to 6 pm. Participants should check in at Ogle Lake and then head out to the spot they wish to paint.
Upland Plein Air wants to remind members that they are more than welcome to participate. Kitty Garlock hosted a West Side Paint Out for Upland on October 15. Claude Cookman hosted a Dunn Street Paint Out for Upland on October 22. Jerry Harste is hosting the Brown County State Part Paint Out. If you don’t have a park pass, catch a ride with someone who does. This paint out was initially scheduled for October 15 but rescheduled to catch the colors at their peak. Don’t miss this opportunity to paint Indiana in full color!
Kitty Garlock at Westside Neighborhood Paint Out
Claude Cookman hosted the South Dunn Street Paint Out
Finished painting by Penny Luilch
Value Study by Penny Luilich
Hinkle-Garton Farmstead is providing BWS members an opportunity to paint this fall.BWS members can paint topics of their choice between now and November 7. Call the BRI administrative phone 812-890-8550 and let them know when you will be on the grounds and what time you expect to leave. Finished works can be displayed at the Farmstead for the Hinkle-Garton Open Day and Holiday Sale in November. BRI Event Coordinator and volunteer, LeAnn Luce, can be contacted at Lucebella50@gmail.com or 812-890-8550 about drop off for the November 7th Holiday Show.
The Venue’s Ekphrasis Features Three BWS Artists. Three Bloomington Watercolor Society artists were a featured part of The Venue’s fourth Ekphrasis event, held Sunday, October 20 at the gallery on Grant Street.
A Greek word. ekphrasis, refers to a literary description of a visual art. In current practice, poets write poems inspired by a painting, drawing, sculpture or other work of art.
Among the eight artists celebrated were Robin Edmundson, Deborah Rush and Joanne Shank.
Nathan Schmidt compared Robin’s landscape to Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie-style homes. The Bloomington poet, who goes by the name PDVNCH, used double and triple entendres to evoke Deborah’s painting of a teenager in goth. Joanne’s husband Ray Zdonek wrote about her painting.
Joanne Shank
Deborah Rush
Robin Edmundson
Henry Leck is having an art show entitled La Vie en Rose. The opening reception will be on Friday, November 1, from 4 to 5 pm at 402 W. 6th St., Bloomington. As a painter Henry says, “most of my professional growth has come from my association with fellow Bloomington artists. I am an active member of the Upland Plein Air and the Bloomington Watercolor Society. I also have taken advantage of regular portrait group paintings and live model sessions at Indiana University. What began as a hobby of artistic expression has become a passion. I love to paint realistically, but am growing as an impressionistic landscape artist.”
Candace Bailey had a piece accepted into the 121st Annual Exhibition at the Richmond Art Museum. Candace’s painting entitled “Kirkwood Hall #2” will be on display at the museum from November 7 through January 4. Congratulations Candace!!
Beyond BWS
The Indianapolis Children’s Museum. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis has implemented a Visiting Artist Program and is recruiting exceptional visual artists with ties to Indiana who have demonstrated interest and experience in exhibiting, presenting and teaching about their art with children and families. Successful applicants will receive an honorarium and reimbursement for reasonable expenses. Deadline for applications is December 1 (see the museum’s website for further details).
Endwright Center has published their schedule for November Art Classes. Registration is through the Area 10 Agency on Aging in Ellettsville: 812-876-3383, extension 515, or on their website at www.area10agency.org. Their Eastside location is in College Mall, close to Macy’s. This trial programming on the Eastside is currently only available for 2019, to be reevaluated next year based on interest level and resources. The location has a receptionist to assist those interested in joining. Program Director is Na’Kia Jones.
Michael’s Art Store is is now carrying Daniel Smith watercolor tubes. Interested members can also get a set of Daniel Smith watercolor tubes with Daniel Smith ground, and, if they have a coupon, it’s 20% off the original price.
Stephen Edwards Workshop. The Watercolor Society of Indiana will hold its 2020 Spring Retreat at Waycross Camp and Conference Center in Brown County on April 24-26. featuring Stephen Edwards. Stephen will be sharing what he has learned from British masters and his own experience regarding how to maintain vibrant colors while keeping composition, design, value, and mood in the forefront. WSI’s retreat is a time to learn, relax, and meet fellow Indiana artists. Enrollment information is available on the WSI website.
Dongfeng Li Workshop. The Morehead Art Guild of Kentucky is hosting a two-day workshop, entitled “Painting the Landscape in Watercolor” on November 1 & 2 (Laughlin Building, Room 202, 230 University Blvd., Morehead, KY). Dongfeng Li will show participants how to paint easy landscapes that capture the atmosphere of the scene. The class will cover four topics — skies, backgrounds, foregrounds, trees. The class teaches important brush and application techniques in addition how to mix colors effectively. For more information, contact Kathy McGrath (606-776-4415 or ckmcgrath67@gmail.com).
Missouri Watercolor Society. Executive Director David Anderson sent a note saying that the 2019 MOWS International Show is open for entries to members as well as those wishing to join the organization. The deadline is December 13. This year’s paintings will be hung in either the Barcelona Academy of Art or the European Museum of Contemporary Art. MOWS is hoping to give out $25,000 in awards with the Best of Show receiving $3500. Tom Schaller will select 150 paintings for the show, double the amount usually selected. The prospectus as to how to enter painting in this show can be found on the MOWS website.
**Photographs in the November issue of Brushstrokes courtesy of Candace Bailey, Babette Ballinger, Kathleen Barton, Claude Cookman, Jeanne Dutton, Charlotte Griffin, Henry Leck, Nancy Metz, and Susan Thorin.
IMO
The question for this month was “What Is Your Favorite Art Book?”
“My favorite artist is Ray Campbell Smith. While all of his books are good, my favorite is Watercolour Work-Out. I especially like his use of subtle earth tones in his landscape paintings.” — Candace Bailey
“If not a certified addict, I am certainly a frequent flyer in the 751.422 shelves of the Monroe County Public Library. Few are the watercolor books I have not checked out at least once. Currently, I’m reading Ron Ranson On Skies: Techniques in Watercolour and Other Media. Ranson is in the fast-and-loose school and a fierce proponent of the “don’t fiddle” dictum. In his books and videos, he advocates and demonstrates using the hake brush, whose width and soft bristles make fussy, detailed work impossible.” – Claude Cookman
“If you want to learn about painting on silk, I have two favorites: The Complete Book of Silk Painting (Diane Tuckman & Jan Janus) and Silk Painting: The Artisit’s Guide to Gutta and Wax Resist Techniques (Susan Louise Moyer).”— Jane Matranga
“My favorite books are really novels. The first is called Museum by Danny Danziger. It is a book about what goes on behind the scenes at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It contains over 50 interviews with people who work there – from waiters to curators. My second recommendation is The Art Forger by Barbara Shapiro. After a huge art heist in Boston, a struggling young artist learns there is more to this crime than meets the eye. I would love it if everyone would put these two books on your reading list and share what you thought about them in the next Newsletter. I’m hoping we can start a BWS Book Club.”— Candace Bailey
Next Month’s IMO
Candace Bailey has a DVD copy o the movie Maudie. Set in Nova Scotia, staring Sally Hawkins and Ethan Hawks, the movie is based on a true story of a woman with severe arthritis who is hired as a housekeeper by a reclusive fishmonger and becomes a folk artist. If you haven’t seen it, put it on your Must See list. If you do not have access to Netflix or some other type of streaming device, Kathy is willing to lend you her DVD. After you watch it, send us your thoughts. Maudie will be the topic of our next IMO.
To give you a taste of what is in store, here is Laura Bybee’s painting produced at the Tibetan Mongolian Cultural Center when a storm sneaked up over the hill and caught her and Upland painters in a deluge.
After a summer hiatus, Bloomington Watercolor Society resumes its monthly meetings Monday, Sept. 9. Members are asked to bring paintings they have worked on this summer for a “Show and Share” session.
The business meeting will start promptly at 6 p.m. with a refreshment break scheduled about 6:45 p.m. The “Show and Share” program will follow refreshments at 7 p.m.
The meeting is a St. Mark’s United Methodist Church on the bypass at 100 N. State Rd. 46, Bloomington.
Learning from others by sharing what we love is what BWS is all about so:
Remember to bring your paintings!!
BWS News
Presidential Update. Patty Uffman reports “GOOD NEWS!” Things are definitely moving in the right direction! These are some of the reasons we are kicking off this year on a good note:
· St. Mark’s has renewed our meeting space free of charge.
· Jo Weddle has confirmed a complete year of diverse programming.
· We have a new Plein Air Committee: Sande Nitti and Betty Wagoner have agreed to combine their talents to form the committee, which Sande will chair.
· Kathy Truelove-Barton has been named the ad hoc chair of the BWS “Painting Space Search Committee” looking for a place for members to go to paint together.
· Steve Dawson has extended an open invitation for BWS to have a paint out at his place.
Hinkle-Garton Farmstead Picnic Pickup. For those of you who participated in the Hinkle Farmstead Paint Out pickup will be on Wednesday September 4th between 10 a.m. and 1 p. m. Bloomington Restorations Incorporated (BRI) will be furnishing a meat and cheese tray. Participants are invited to bring a favorite side dish and gather for a pot luck lunch at the same time.
The Farmstead board is pleased with how successful the 2019 Hinkle-Garton paint out and open houses went. As a result BWS has been invited to paint on the farmstead through the fall season and consider having another show in the fall 2020. To paint on the grounds, call the number for BRI (812-336-0909) and leave a message for LeAnn or Steve. The areas around the hoop houses are off limits, but the houses, barns, and gardens are available. The large old maple trees near the house should be particularly beautiful this fall.
T-Shirt Design Contest. Deadline is September 6. The Month of Chocolate is February 2020. LIFEDesigns, in collaboration with the Bloomington Watercolor Society, is sponsoring a tee shirt design contest with a prize of $100 and, of course, a free tee shirt. This contest is open to everyone. (See lifedesign/t-shirt contest for more information).
Membership Show. This year’s BWS Membership Show will be held at the Untitled Light Gallery at the Mill (642 N Madison St., Bloomington). The reception will be on October 4 from 5-8 p.m. More details to follow. Jessica McKinney, our Membership Show Chair, needs 13 volunteers to help with the drop off, reception, and pick up of paintings.
Beyond BWS: September Opportunities
T.C.Steele, Indiana’s oldest plein air painting competition will be held at the T.C. Steele Historic Site (4220 T.C. Steele Rd., Nashville), September 14, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Early bird registration ends August 31 but artists can register for the event even on the day of the competition. Categories for kids 12 and under, teens, and adults, will be judged beginning at 2 p.m. with awards announced beginning at 3:15 p.m. First place and People’s Choice winners will be on display at Brown County Art Guild following the competition until September 30. (For more information go to https//tcsteele.org).
Paint Columbus is a two-day event being held on Saturday and Sunday, September 21 & 22. Artists are invited to paint the iconic town. On Sunday at 3 p.m. all works will be exhibited, judged, and awards given at The Commons at 300 Washington St. At 4 p.m. work will be available for purchase to the viewing public. Paint Columbus is free and all skill levels are welcome. Artists can register by email: Janek@c21breeden.com.
Mallow Run Winery is continuing its Artist Series Wine Label Competition. Entries are now being accepted for the 2019 release! The deadline for submissions is Monday, September 30. The Artist Series Wine Label project features a special wine released each year featuring label artwork from an Indiana artist that is chosen from submissions. A portion of the proceeds from sales of this release will be donated to promote the Center Grove Arts Foundation and the Johnson County Community Foundation Mural Project. The winning artist will be celebrated in a reception at The Sycamore at Mallow Run in November, and the wine will be released to the public just in time for holiday celebrations. (For more information see https://mallowrun.com/artist-series/).
Persimmon Festival Art Show. Artists are invited to enter up to three paintings ($5 per painting as an entry fee) in the Mitchell Persimmon Festival which takes place on September 24 at the Mitchell Community Public Library (8th and Main). Artists must be 18 or older and must be current or former residents of Indiana. Paintings must be ready for hanging. No saw-tooth hangers are allowed. Ribbons and cash prizes in five categories will be given.
Membership News
Candi Bailey was juried into the Anderson Museum of Art Figures of Speech Show with a painting entitled “Black Sheep of the Family.” Candi was also awarded 2ndplace for her painting “B-town Authors” at the Venue’s Art & Soul of Bloomington Exhibit. BWS has a total of 12 entries in the show, 3 of which won recognition.
B-town Authors
Black Sheep of the Family
Meri Reinhold’s painting entitled “Buddy Guy Plays the Blues” was juried into the 2019 Watercolor Society of Indiana Exhibition now showing until September 25 at the IMA at Newfields.
Robin Edmundson hopes to see you at her solo show entitled “Not Far Afield” being held at The Vault at Gallery Mortgage (121 E 6thSt., Bloomington). Her show runs from October 1-29 with an opening reception on Friday, October 4, 5-8 p.m.
Two of Lynn Gillat’s paintings
Lynne Gilliat shared her summer. “In May I went to Romania. I had a showing of my temperas and pastels at La Vie en Rose upon my return. The next month I showed the same show at the Unitarian Universalist church. I’m now working on making figurative studies over old watercolors. It’s working out well. I enjoy Claude Cookman’s portrait group and am experimenting with drawing and painting in tempera whole figures as well as portraits. I am excited to paint from my Romanian photos next!”
Nina Ost
Nina Ost reported that she is still in Florida but will return to Bloomington around the middle of September. “Instead of doing pretty but boring paintings of Florida’s flowers, I’ve been taking a phone photo, switching it to negative, printing out a copy, and painting from that. Phone photos are always more vibrant than print outs. Also, I have returned to sketching in shapes with my brush and building the painting rather than first doing a careful drawing. I can often get fixated on the drawing part.”
Claude Cookman served as one of two judges for the Indiana Wildlife Artists’ annual competition on August 24. He and co-judge Leah Frenzel chose first, second and third place winners from more than 80 entries in five categories. The exhibition will hang at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, through September. Details at: http://indianawildlifeartists.org/judges.htm]
Deborah Rush currently has a show at the Unitarian Universalistic Church. She invites everyone to come and enjoy her art work.
Deborah Rush’s watercolors currently on display.
Kitty Garlock reports that she and Betty Wagoner, Anne-Karine Bley, Henry Leck, Kathy Barton, MarySue Walker, Bill Schwab, Don Geyra, and Rose Brenner participated in the paint-out at the West Baden Resort in French Lick. Each artist painted from one to four pictures of the wonderful sites around the grounds and on the veranda. The days were gloriously blessed with mild weather and gentle breezes and, with the exception of a threatening thunderstorm that passed rather quickly with only a spit of rain, were perfect for painting. Kitty reports, “A few of us even got a nocturnal painting!” Saturday at 2:00 pictures were placed on display and voted on by the artists, hotel guests, and site visitors. Inside a wonder repast of hors d’oeuvres and wine were served “It was wonderful!! And to top it all off, three paintings by our group were sold!!”
MarySue Schwab
MarySue Schwab
Betty Wagoner
Betty Wagoner
Rose Brenner
Rose Brenner
Don Geyra
Kitty Garlock
Nancy Metz shared what she learned from a week at the Art Institute in Chicago:
Nancy Metz used a charcoal-erasing technique to record Marsden Hartley’s “Movements” painting from 1913
Spending five days at the Art Institute of Chicago sounded like a dream: endless hours with some of the world’s best paintings, studio space at the School of the Art Institute, a Blick’s art supply store within walking distance, and a friend and colleague to share it with.
When Carol Rhodes and I registered for SEEING the Art Institute of Chicago, a summer intensive one-week class offered by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s Continuing Education, we were apprehensive about how our drawing skills would measure up against the other students, so we found online videos and met to improve our graphite and charcoal skills.
I learned Carol does beautiful work in black-and-white dry media. She would be observing and placing her marks on the paper, adjusting values as needed, and building toward a finished image. I, on the other hand, would be on my second or third version of our subject as she was finishing her first. I realized then that I habitually hurry through the drawing stage, my goal being to place as few marks as possible so I can get to my paints.
At that point, I said to myself: “Oh well, who cares if I am the worst in the class. I have paid my money, and I will enjoy this experience.”
Carol Rhodes works on her charcoal drawing of a Rodin sculpture from the Art Institute’s collection.
As it turned out, the ten students represented a range of artistic abilities and interests, and our instructor, Nancy Murphy Spicer, used her training as an art coach to help each of us shape our Art Institute experience.
Our mornings started in the studio with Spicer suggesting ways to approach an artwork and different focuses for our sketching. As soon as the museum opened, we had free rein to sketch in the galleries. After lunch, we worked in the studio on developing our individual projects based on our interests. Spicer and Ishita Dharup, the teaching assistant, would periodically demonstrate charcoal, pen, or graphite techniques that students could join in if they wanted.
The class wasn’t focused on technique, however. The idea was to tap in to the resources of the Art Institute and build a personal experience from there. I latched on to the idea of finding one painting that captured my attention and visiting it each day. Of course, my first stop was 20thcentury American paintings where I found works by Georgia O’Keeffe, Charles Demuth, Charles Sheeler, and Edward Hopper. I rounded the corner and there it was: My One – the painting I would visit each day – “Movements” by Marsden Hartley. Colorful shapes spiraled on the canvas, and it looked like rock ‘n’ roll – even though it was created about 40 years before that music genre was invented.
That afternoon, I discussed with Spicer the challenge of creating a back-and-white version of such a colorful painting, and that led us into looking at the painting’s values. The next thing I knew Spicer had me covering a 22 x 30 sheet with solid charcoal and using erasers as my drawing utensils. The first piece took two days to complete, but after a student critique session, I knew I wanted to see if I could create the negative of the value study I had just done. That took only one day but a lot of concentration. Turning blacks into whites and vice versa is easy; the challenge is in translating those middle values. Having completed two studies using the charcoal erasing technique, I was pretty comfortable in tackling a Marsden Hartley landscape with the same tools. That one took one afternoon. The landscape was necessary to establish how far a departure “Movements” was from the Hartley paintings I was familiar with.
Friday afternoon we hung our show on the studio walls and discussed each other’s works. Spicer had created a community of artists willing to share ideas, suggestions, and materials. Drawings large and small and even a 3-D presentation of classic urns had sprung forth during the week. Some were based on the Art Institute’s collection, some were in-depth studies of a chosen artist, and some were personal subject matter.
That is the School of the Art Institute of Chicago class in a nutshell. It is only my experience. I know Carol’s journey unfolded differently, and I am confident the other eight students each had unique experiences.
Here are a few more lessons I learned while roaming the Art Institute:
Lesson #1: Always carry a sketchbook and pencil. In the museum, free yourself from “copying” a work. You can sketch the painting’s composition or make a gestural drawing of a figure in the painting. You can capture the painting’s values. Make a diagram or notational drawing of the work. Any of these strategies will lead you further into the work. Try to spend 10 to 15 minutes with a piece.
Lesson #2: Don’t be in a hurry. Stand before the work that interests you. What is the affect of the artwork: Do you have an involuntary physical or emotional response? What has the artist made you look at? Move slowly toward it. How does it change as you move closer?
Lesson #3: Trying a new medium and technique can unlock your creativity. I spent four consecutive afternoons erasing. I was using black instead of colors. I was subtracting instead of adding. For several hours I had to think about everything I was doing. And suddenly, my mind was racing with ideas about how to accomplish the range of values in the piece I was working on, what the next piece would be, and the next one, and so on.
Lesson #4: Critiques come in many forms and are often more useful when they have some structure. One of my favorites was a See/Think/Wonder exercise. Each student hung their work from the previous day, and students were given small sheets of paper on which they were to write one See statement, one Think statement, and one Wonder statement for each piece. Then, each student had a few minutes to talk about their work before receiving their classmates’ critique sheets. Because the comments were written before each artist’s talk and without hearing others’ reactions, the critiques provided a wide range of ideas to think about.
Lesson #5: Drawing is a valuable tool for information gathering. Each visit to Hartley’s “Movements” yielded new information. One day I found circles that had gone unnoticed. Another day revealed proportions were off in my original sketch. Another information gathering operation was my afternoon charcoal-erasing sessions. As the image developed out of the black charcoal, I was constantly adjusting values and, at one point, realized this work I had viewed as a collection of shapes was pretty weak without the carefully placed lines. I plan to adjust my painting process to include some more developed drawings before I start a painting. I might first make a charcoal drawing of my subject matter just to learn about it before I make those sketchy lines on my watercolor paper.
Lesson #5 is not new. Artists have been doing preliminary drawings forever. But I rarely have done more than a quick thumbnail to work out composition and values, and even those had trailed off in recent years. Of all I learned in my week in Chicago, this is probably the most important.
Oh yes, I also learned it really isn’t such a good thing to be within walking distance of an art supplies store. Carol and I both had to swear off Blick’s by mid-week.
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If you’re interested in the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s Continuing Education program, visit continuing studies.saic.edu.
MarySue Schwab reviewed an Honorary Mention for her painting “Secluded Pool” from the Hoosier Salon in New Harmony.
IMO
These questions were posed to BWS members currently teaching courses:
Question 1: “What is the best tidbit of advice you give to students in your classes?
“Let it dry!”Linda Meyer-Wright
“The first piece of advice that comes to mind, which really seems to click with my high school students, is to avoid falling prey to your mental “autocorrect” while drawing or painting. High school students are very aware of the awkwardness that the autocorrect function can play on their texts and emails and it doesn’t take them long to realize they each have a mental autocorrect too. Their mental autocorrect will start overriding a drawing – telling them what they “should see,” not what they actually see. Doing more work from observation, not labeling objects, and looking for how abstract shapes fit together in a source image all help to develop a larger autocorrect vocabulary and reduce its helpful mistakes. More important is noticing when it kicks in, forgiving yourself when it does, and actively practicing.” Cassidy Young
“ALWAYS do a value painting before doing the completed colored painting. Make the value painting small, 8 x 10. Notice the placement of objects in the study. Is there an interesting balance? If not, change the study. Correct the values. A good study makes a good finished painting. You will have more confidence by doing a value study first.” Jacki Frey
“I tell students not to worry about finding the “right way” to do watercolor. There are lots of ways to paint with watercolors. Learn the basic washes and brushstrokes and all will reveal itself — if you let it.” Nancy Metz
Question 2: What if any effect has teaching art had on your own artistic process?”
“Teaching keeps me on my toes – I learn new stuff so I can teach new stuff. I try to stay about 10 minutes ahead of the class.” Linda Meyer-Wright
“Active practice and forgiveness are keys to my own art practices. They keeps me from setting down the brushes for too long.” Cassidy Young
“Teaching has helped my own paintings. To have a good painting for my demos I have to be prepared. I put a lot of time into painting for a class. I also learn from what students may paint.” Jacki Frey
“Teaching “Painting Styles of the Masters” has affected my artistic process more than any other class I have taught. Now, when I start a painting, I think how would different artists approach this subject. I might even do a few small painting sketches in the styles of different artists to see what I like best.” Nancy Metz
CALL FOR ENTRIES 15th Annual Member Exhibit 
