It’s summer vacation, so BWS will not be holding meetings in July or August.

September 11, we’ll meet again for Show-and-Share, to be moderated by Nancy Metz. Plan to bring your paintings or travel journals or whatever artwork you’d like to share. Look for more details in the September issue.

At last month’s BWS meeting…

Sande Nitti presented the program at the June meeting about layering pastels over a watercolor underpainting. It was very interesting and many were heard saying, “I can’t wait to try that!” Thanks, Sande, for the inspiration!

Sande Nitti explaining pastels over watercolor underpainting

Summer Lane, Pastel, by Sande Nitti

A message from the treasurer, Patty Uffman:

Annual dues should now be paid. If you haven’t already paid, please pay by PayPal or mail to:
Bloomington Watercolor Society
Post Office Box 5236
Bloomington, IN 47407-5236
Dues are $25 for individuals / $40 for families / $10 for Associates or Students
Don’t know if you’ve paid or not? Send an email to info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

GARDEN WALK
Thanks to Charlotte Griffin for organizing BWS’ participation in the annual Garden Walk, to the artists who painted, and to Carla Hedges who sent most of these photos.

Lechner’s Garden, by Carla Hedges

Garden Walk Painting in Progress, by Carol Rhodes

At the History Center, by Kathy Barton

Joanne Shank painting during the garden walk

MEMBER ACTIVITIES
Congratulations to the BWS artists who placed at the T.C. Steele Festival of Flowers paint out. In the adult watercolor category, Nancy Metz took 2nd place while Betty Wagoner received an honorable mention. In the adult oils category, Anne-Karine Bley won an honorable mention.

Wet-on-Wet (the only thing possible in that much rain), by Nancy Davis-Metz

Meri Reinhold earned two Second Place awards at the Lawrence County Art Association’s judged show: “Denise” in the portrait category, and “Sweet Pea” in the animal category.

Denise, by Meri Reinhold

Sweetpea, by Meri Reinhold

Candi Bailey taught a watercolor class for the Monroe County History Center’s Art Camp in June.

Five BWS members had pieces juried into The Venue’s Art & Soul show, which celebrates all things Bloomington. Works by Candi Bailey, Erin Duff, Nancy Metz, Deborah Rush, and Joanne Shank will be on exhibit throughout July at The Venue, 114 S. Grant St., Bloomington.
Stop in to see the show. You can even vote for your favorite. The Venue is open Sunday Noon-4 p.m., Tuesday – Saturday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Closed on Monday.

Erin Duff has an oil painting accepted into the 93rd Annual Hoosier Salon Exhibition which opens July 26th.

Robin Edmundson has a solo show of her watercolors at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage from August 3 – September 29. The opening reception is during Gallery Walk, Friday, August 4 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Phyllis Taylor attended a painting workshop with Ted Nuttall in Bend, Oregon in June. She finished three paintings and two of those will hang at Tempo Gallery’s July Art Walk. These represent her continuing theme of the fishing culture in Astoria, Oregon with fisherwomen, kids, boats, and water scenes.

First Fish, by Phyllis Taylor

Rose Brenner will have a gallery show at the Bedford Wiley House, 14th and J Street, sponsored by the Lawrence County Art Association. It will run from July 28th thru Aug 19th, with an Open House on July 28 starting at 6pm. The show will feature about 30 oil paintings done in the past year, with an emphasis on three themes: Light and Shadow, Amazing Skies, and Flowers.

Plein Air Oil Painting, by Rose Brenner

Carla Hedges has an exhibit, “Through My Eyes,” now through July 16 at the Monroe County Convention Center’s Art Gallery.

Joanne Shank will hold a solo exhibit at the Venue, Fine Art and Gifts. The opening reception is on Gallery Walk Friday, August 4, from 5-8 pm.

OPPORTUNITIES

BWS Portrait Group

The portrait group schedule for July and August continues the quest for diversity among models in age, gender, ethnicity, et. al.
These sessions are open to all BWS members, and participants are welcome to work in any medium. Typically, models pose for 20-minute segments alternating with 5-minute breaks.

• Thursday, July 13, 1-3 p.m., at the Monroe County Public Library, Room 2B. Model: student from Tri-North Middle School
• Thursday, July 27, 1-3 p.m., at Meadowood Retirement’s main building. Connie Brorson, a BWS Signature member & great watercolorist
• Thursday, August 10, 1-3 p.m., at IU’s Eigenmann Hall. James Stewart, an African American gentleman who works for IU
• Thursday, August 24, 1-3 p.m., at Untitled Light, 127 S. Gentry. Wendy Rubin, a retired Monroe County Public Library reference librarian

If you would like full details including maps, directions, parking information, cost, etc., please email Claude Cookman.

“Mr. Stewart” Graphite and white chalk on buff toned paper by Claude Cookman

BWS Upland Plein Air Painters
Paint Out with Upland this summer at the following locations. Kitty Garlock is the summer coordinator. Got questions? Send an email to upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org

• Tuesday, July 11, Tibetan Center, Host: Jacki Frey
• Tuesday, July 18, Starve Hollow State Park, Host: Betty Wagoner
• *Monday, July 24, Harvest Moon Farm, Host: Kristen Stamper
• Tuesday, August 15, Moody Farm, Host: Sande Nitti
• Tuesday, August 22, May Creek Farm, Host: Meri Reinhold

Sad News
Bloomington Watercolor Society will miss longtime member Patti Brundle, who died July 5. Although poor health prevented her from participating in many BWS activities, she shared her interests and ideas online with many of us. The family is planning a memorial service at a later date. You are invited to share a memory or leave an online condolence to the family at www.allencares.com.

At the Edge of the Woods

Minutes of the BWS Meeting

June 12, 2017 / 6:00 pm

First Christian Church

6:02 pm – Call to Order

Welcome and Guest Introductions

Charlotte Griffin introduced Diana Sokolova, a BWS guest.

Hospitality Thanks (Mary Walker)

Mary thanked members who brought refreshments:  Jan Britton, Char Dapena, Lynne Gilliatt, Barbara Coffman & Tom Tierney, Patty Uffman, and Betty Wagoner.

Minutes Approval

A motion to approve the minutes of the May meeting was made by Candi Bailey, and seconded by Jacki Frey. Minutes were accepted with a unanimous vote.

Treasurer’s Report (Patty Uffman)

Proceeds of the BWS table sale were sent to MCCSC.  Members were reminded that annual dues should be paid by the end of June.  Balances were reported for IUCU, PayPal, and Petty Cash.  Char Dapena motioned to accept the report, and Kathy Barton seconded the motion.

Old Business

Jane Matranga was introduced as the newly elected BWS President.

New Business

Committee Reports

• Activities (Jeanne Dutton)

The T.C. Steele Festival of Flowers held May 20 was highlighted. Awards were won by several BWS Members: Adult Watercolor, Nancy Metz, 2^nd; Betty Wagoner, Honorable Mention and Adult Oils: Anne-Karine Bley, Honorable Mention.

Charlotte reminded members of the Garden Walk June 17-18 and encouraged members to sign up to paint.

• Upland Painters (Kristen Stamper)

The second annual planning meeting was held June 6.   The group has grown to more than 40 members on list serve, 20 of which are active.  An overview of events planned for the summer was given.  If anyone is interested in joining in the plein air activities, they should email upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

• Scholarship (Jeanne Dutton)

The BWS scholarship winner, Benjamin Zumbrun of BHSS, was announced.

• Programs (Charlotte Griffin)

With June being our last meeting until September, upcoming programs were not announced; however, Charlotte did ask that anyone with suggestions submit them for consideration.

• Shows (Anne-Karine Bley)

An member’s exhibit at The Vault Gallery to be held October 6 – November 21 was announced.  Take-in will be from 10 am to noon on October 4.  No theme.  No size restrictions.  Seeking volunteers.  Not a juried show.  One piece allowed per member.  Reception Friday, October 6.  The complete prospectus will be ready soon.  It will be sent by email and published on the BWS website.

Working on juried show opportunities.  Several in June and July, including the Indiana State Fair, which Donna Whitsett said would be a good one to start with because the fee is only $30 for the Fine Arts category.  Anne-Karine has a list of exhibits (both juried and non-juried) and she will make it available to those who request it.

Announcements

•  Kathy Barton reminded members that Carla Hedges is exhibiting at the Convention Center.
• Betty Wagoner announced that there are two more “Arts in the Park” events coming up:  July 8 at T.C. Steele, and September 9 at Starved Hallow, featuring a Great Outdoor Art Contest.
• Meri Reinhold invited a small group (limited to four members) to join her to focus on “Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain.”
• Anne-Karine announced her two-week Artist in Residency at the Dunes from July 14-27.  She was at the National Lakeshore in the past and is happy to be returning.

Jeanne Dutton thanked our outgoing president, Charlotte Griffin, for her service and, on behalf of BWS, presented her with a number of small painting gifts.

Business Meeting Adjourned at 6:40 pm

Meri Reinhold motioned to adjourn our business meeting.  Cathy Korinek seconded the motion.

Program (Sandra Nitti)

Sandra’s program on pastels included a demonstration of her techniques, starting with value studies.  As she painted, she showed how to call attention to the focal point by using the lightest lights and darkest darks.  She began with an under-painting and as her painting progressed, she offered hints such as to keep each corner of the painting distinct to create variety, to repeat the same color in several areas, and to look for interesting shapes of color.  Several tools she uses (e.g. as the proportional Compose-It-Grids) were passed around.

Adjourned at 7:55 pm

Monthly Meeting

June 12, 2017   6:00pm

First Christian Church, corner of Kirkwood and Washington

Beautiful downtown Bloomington

Note to you:  BWS does not meet during the summer months, but will resume September 11.  That’s Show-and-Share month, so plan to bring your summer masterpieces.

Annual Dues for Bloomington Watercolor Society are due by June 30.  
Pay via Paypal or send check to BWS, P.O. Box 5236, Bloomington, IN, 47407.
Or bring your check to the meeting on June 12.

June’s Program

Painting with Watercolor and Pastels, presented by Sande Nitti.

“Pastels and watercolor are a perfect combination when painting; the possibilities are endless using these complimenting mediums together. I don’t think there is anything more beautiful than a spontaneous wash and the mingling of watercolor paint; I have found the opaque nature of pastel shimmers over the soft luminosity of watercolor creating a beautiful effect.

“There are many ways to approach a pastel painting. I will demonstrate a landscape using one of my favorite techniques by setting the foundation and mood of the painting with a watercolor under painting then layering soft pastels to create depth and texture.”

You do not need to bring any supplies for this program.

Meet Your New President and Executive Board

May elections provided BWS with some new, and some solid “old,” leaders.  BWS is a vibrant, well-run organization, thanks to the coordinated efforts and dedication of your executive board and the committee chairs.  A hearty “Thank You!” to all those officers and committee chairs  who continue to work hard to make BWS what it is today.

Jane Matranga

Meet the new president, Jane Matranga.  You may not know her face, but you certainly know her art as it was featured on the cover of this year’s Art of Chocolate program and in the publicity for last year’s.  Jane has a B.F.A. in Drawing and Painting from the University of Cincinnati and a Master’s in Fashion Design from Drexel University in Philadelphia.

She combines her apparel design and art backgrounds to design original hand painted garments.

Jane currently teaches fashion design at Indiana University.

Charlotte Griffin

Nancy Davis-Metz

Patty Uffman

Charlotte Griffin moves to the 1st VP position, and Nancy Davis Metz to 2nd VP.  Patty Uffman continues as treasurer and we welcome another new officer, Secretary Erin Duff.

Erin Duff

Erin is a full time medical illustrator and brand new to the professional fine arts scene.  Erin says, “Painting has become a powerful outlet for my creativity and allows self-expression beyond my daily work which is focused purely on anatomy of the human body. My current series studies the form and realism of flowers found in my local community. Focusing on the subtle change of color gradients, texture and imperfections throughout each leaf and petal has become a form of practicing mindfulness and meditation.

“I’m not sure which I enjoy more, mixing paint to match the vast array of colors that I interpret or dragging my brush across the canvas to create tiny shapes and blending them together to create a sense of harmony.”

Table Sale

With many thanks to members and non-members, as well, for their donations to the table sale.  Over $300 was raised and 100% goes directly into the BWS Scholarship Fund at the Foundation for Monroe County Community Schools.  And wasn’t that fun?  Keep the table sale in mind as you clean, re-organize, and sort through your supplies.  Remember:  One artist’s junk is another artist’s masterpiece!

MEMBER ACTIVITIES

The Signature Member exhibit at Meadowood was well received and opened with a lovely reception.  Here are photos of their works of art.

Congratulations to Jerry Harste.  One of his famous goats was accepted into the juried show, “Figures of Speech,” sponsored by the Anderson Center for the Arts, Anderson, Indiana.  The pen and ink drawing is titled “Thinking Out of the Box.”

White Winter, Robin Edmundson

Congratulations also to Robin Edmundson.  Her painting, “White Winter,” was selected to hang in the Lt Governor’s office this year as part of the Hoosier Women Artist’s competition.   In 2018, it will move on to the Haan Museum of Indiana Art in Lafayette for another special exhibit of the HWA.  (On a side note, the Haan Museum has a very interesting and unexpected history.  See more about it at haanmuseum.org/Mansion.aspx.)

Great American Artworks Road Trip

BWS members visited the Great American Artworks Pastel operation in Cincinnati in mid-May. Babette Ballinger, Jo Baum, Sande Nitti and Claude Cookman heard founder and owner Bob Strohsahl share his wisdom about pastels and got to watch him make a batch of deep purple sticks. His associate, Diane Schear, gave a tour of the facility and helped pick out sticks for purchase at discount. Afterward, they visited the Cincinnati Museum of Art.

Sandy Hall, associate member from Greenfield IN, attended the Kanuga Watermedia workshops in Hendersonville NC, April 22-28, 2017.   Paul Jackson, known for his reflections and glassware paintings, led the week long workshop that Sandy attended.  Evening sessions included a demonstration night, a critique night, a special guest night and a tour to view the works by other students.

Over 350 artists participated, four from Indiana, with over a dozen instructors. Dates in 2018 are April 7-13 and registration starts June 1.  Every year they have a new list of instructors, nationally known and well versed in all watermedia techniques. Check out the website at kanugawatermediaworkshops.com
For registration or workshop/class information, contact the directors, Chris and Barbara Hutchison, at either KanugaWW@gmail.com or 615-202-0281.

OPPORTUNITIES

• Watercolor Workshop: Painting at Starve Hollow Lake

  Saturday, June 10, 2017, 9:30 – noon

  

  Starve Hollow, by Betty Wagoner

  Betty Wagoner, Instructor.

  After the workshop from 1:00-4:00, Betty will conduct demos using watercolor pencils and visitors are encouraged to experiment.

  To register, contact Betty.

  This program will be repeated on August 12.

• BWS Upland Plein Air Activities

  All BWS members are welcome to join in any of the paint outs. Activities typically take place on Tuesday mornings from 9 to noon; however, this occasionally changes. For details, just send an email to upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

  If you are interested in participating in Upland activities, you are invited to attend the organizational meeting and pitch-in lunch social on June 6 from 10:30 am – 1 pm.

  At this meeting, plans will be made for the remainder of 2017.  Each participating artist is expected to host at least one painting event per year.

  Tuesday, June 6, Organization meeting, Babette Ballinger & Kristen Stamper
  Tuesday, June 13, Horse Farm near Morgantown, Eric Brock

  *Saturday, Sunday, Bloomington Garden Walk, Coordinated by Charlotte Griffin, info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org
  Tuesday, June 20, Artful Blooms, Kitty Garlock
  Tuesday, July 11, Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, Jacki Frey

  Tuesday, July 18, Starve Hollow State Park, Betty Wagoner

  *Monday, July 24, Harvest Moon Farm, Kristen Stamper

• West Baden Paint Out

Artists are invited to “paint out” and sell their work commission free at an afternoon sale on the veranda. Artists are free to paint anywhere on the grounds and may sell paintings from their easels or to invitees at the reception. Previous work is allowed. Each artist is responsible for their own sales and displays, which must be in character with the hotel. For more information call Brown County Art Gallery at 812-988-4609.

• Portrait Painting
  

  Portrait by Deborah Rush

All artists interested in life drawing or painting are invited to join a portrait group from 1 to 3 pm on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month.

Sessions for June are:
June 8, Amira Sabbagh, a local actress, dancer, singer, and fabric artist.
June 22, Kelvin Burzon, a Filipino-American who just completed his MFA in art photography at IU. Mr. Burzon is also a modern jazz dancer with an expressive face.
Cost to pay the model varies from $3 to $5 per person per session. We attempt to schedule models who are as diverse as possible ​in age, gender, and ethnic heritage.  For complete information about these and future sessions, please email Claude Cookman.

• 100+ Tips for Artists

Full of wisdom and fine advice, this article from Strathmore papers is a must-read.  You’ll be glad you did!   strathmoreartist.com/blog-reader/the-best-pieces-of-art-advice

• The Art and Soul of Bloomington

Don’t forget – the Early Bird Deadline for application is June 10.  The final deadline is June 24.  Find all the details and contact information at http://www.thevenuebloomington.com/Jurried.html

Minutes of the Bloomington Watercolor Society Membership meeting

May 8, 2016, 6 pm     First Christian Church

6:05 pm: Call to Order

Welcome and Guest Introductions

Two new members, Joanna Matuszak and Sharon Parsons, were announced but were not present.

Hospitality thanks (Betty Wagoner/Mary Walker)

Special thanks to Penny Lulich, Tricia Wente, Claude Cookman, Kristen Stamper, Betty Wagoner, and Jodi Estell, who contributed various dishes.

Minutes approval

Approval was submitted by Kathy Truelove-Barton and seconded by Char Dapena. There was unanimous approval.

Treasurer’s report (Patty Uffman)

A reminder was issued to members to pay their annual dues by the end of June. BWS bank and fund balances were reported. A motion to accept was put forward by Betty Wagoner and Ann Umphress. There was unanimous approval.

Old Business

Elections:

The members present unanimously elected the following slate for the 2017-2018 season:

Officers:
President: Jane Matranga
First Vice President: Charlotte Griffin
Second Vice President: Nancy Metz
Treasurer: Patty Uffman
Secretary: Erin Duff

New Business:

Committee Reports:

Activities (Jeanne Dutton)

The May table sale’s unofficial count (as of the time of reporting) was $285.

Charlotte Griffin informed members that the annual Garden Walk would be June 17 and 18, and painters are sought to participate for all gardens on all days. A signup sheet was passed to the members.

Upland Painters Activities (Kristen Stamper)

Plein Air Exhibition at Bellevue Gallery

Thanks to all who showed at the 1^st Annual Plein Air Exhibition of Upland Plein Air Painters & Bloomington Watercolor Society at the Bellevue Gallery at the Farmer House Museum April 6 to May 2.

Scholarship (Jo Weddle)

A winner has been chosen but not announced yet.

Gallery Shows: (Tricia Wente and Anne-Karine Bley)

Signature Member show

A BWS Signature Member show opening reception was held 4:30 to 6 pm May 5 at Meadowwood Retirement Center. The show is planned from May 5-27.

2017 Member Show

Opening reception is planned for October 6 at The Vault. More information will be given to members at the June meeting and in September.

Area art shows:

A list of area art shows will be posted to Brushstrokes newsletter.

Programs (Jo Weddle)

June program: Sandi Nitti will deliver a presentation on pastels.

Announcements

History Center volunteer:

Tricia Wente asked for a 1-hour volunteer watercolor instructor to be at the Hoosier Art camp. Interested parties should contact her.

Portrait painting sessions are being organized by Claude Cookman for 2^nd and 4^th Thursdays. Those interested may contact him.

The May Monthly Program

Robin Edmundson presented a program on color Harmony.

Adjourned 8:40 pm

Submitted by Carol Rhodes, BWS Secretary.

BWS Calendar

• May 2, BWS Upland Plein Air Paint Out
• May 5, Signature Member Show, Opening Reception at Meadowood
• May 5, Gallery Walk
• May 8, BWS Monthly Meeting and Table Sale
• May 9, BWS Upland Plein Air Paint Out
• May 20, TC Steele Festival of Flowers Paint Out

NEXT MONTHLY MEETING

Monday, May 8, 6:00 p.m.

First Christian Church, Kirkwood Avenue and Washington Street

Three events happening:

1. the monthly business meeting;
2. the table sale to support the BWS Scholarship;

   It’s a Triple Win!  Your supplies go to a worthy cause.  You help the BWS Scholarship fund grow.  And your studio becomes organized and clean.  What’s not to like?!  All new and used (but clean!) art supplies and books are accepted.  You may drop them at Jeanne’s house this week or bring them to the church by 5:00 p.m. before the meeting.  If you are bringing the items to the church, please make sure they are priced beforehand!  Sales start at 5:30 and then again after the program is finished.  Cash or check only, and checks may be made to the Foundation for Monroe County Community Schools with the memo marked “BWS Scholarship.”

Questions?  Contact Jeanne at info@BloomingtonWatercolor.org.

(Hint: Two retired art teachers have already donated some very nice things, there are some great bargains!)

3. the program: Getting to Know Those Colors: Basic Color Theory for Artists,  presented by Robin Edmundson

“Color Theory is not a law that you have to obey to make great art.  It is a set of ideas that help you describe color and describe patterns of color behavior.  Knowing each color and how it acts around other colors can be really helpful as you work on a piece.  We’ll talk about each basic hue, its unique attributes and how it acts next to other colors, with special attention to chroma and value.  We’ll also talk about some basic color harmonies.   We’ll do some experiments with paint as we have time.

Bring: color tools/wheels/books if you have them, and paint, brushes and paper so you can play a bit.”

WELCOME

BWS has three new members and we offer a hearty welcome to all of them:  Joanna Matuszak, Barbara Coffman and Tom Tierney.

MEMBER ACTIVITIES
BWS Signature Show and Opening Reception

Friday, May 5, 4:30 – 6:00 pm

Meadowood Gallery

The Signature Members of BWS will open their 2^nd Annual Exhibit at the Meadowood Gallery this Friday.  The show will be up through May 26.  Meadowood is located at 2455 Tamarack Trail on the north side of Bloomington.

Jerry Harste and Gamboling Goats
The April meeting was a fun – and messy – one, for sure.  And everyone had a great time!  Although the theme was goats, many captured their own favorite animal to the project, including elephants, dogs, fish, and bugs.  Here are a few photos from that evening’s play.

Bear

Bulldog

Rainbow Goat

Koi

BWS Plein Air Exhibit

Reception Goodies, picture by Candi Bailey

BWS Upland Plein Air Exhibit Wall

It was a nice evening with a good turnout for the opening reception of the plein air exhibit.  As you can see, the tradition of delicious foods continued.
Gallery Walk
Friday, May 5, 2017, Flowing Colors Studio arts demonstration with Joanne Shank demonstrating spring flower painting with bamboo brush in the entry way of Caveat Emptor, 112 North Walnut Street, Suite 600, 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm.  Phone or text questions to Kathy at 812-679-6353.  For studio hours and info, link to http://flowingcolorsstudio.blogspot.com
Color Class
Robin Edmundson is teaching a class on Color Harmonies at her studio in Solsberry on Saturday, May 27 from 1:00 pm -5:00 pm.  You will start with a bit of formal color theory and then explore several different types of color harmonies using color wheels and other tools.  This is a small class taught at her home studio with no more than four people so you’ll get a lot of individual attention.  Workshop includes a project consultation for each person.  Bring a project or two that you have color questions about and she will discuss it with you and help you find some workable options to get you back on track.   Price discount for BWS members – $50 [Instead of $65].  More information here:  https://www.robinedmundson.com/shop-1/color-harmonies-may-27-2017-1-pm-5-pm
Exhibit in Bedford
Paintings by Don Geyra: New and Ancient
May 5 – May 20
Don, an avid outdoor painter, has an exhibit that opens at the Wiley House in Bedford May 5 with a reception, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.   Wiley House, located at the corner of 14th and J Streets, is the home of the Lawrence County Art Association and is open Thursday thru Saturday from 1-6 pm.

OPPORTUNITIES

BWS Upland Plein Air Painters

This is a partial May schedule.  Please contact upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org for details.

• Tuesday, May 2, Champs Barn, Host: Sandi Nitti
• Tuesday, May 9, Griffy Lake, Host: Penny Lulich

Arts in the Parks
Saturday, May 13, 2017
1:00 – 4:00 pm, T.C. Steele State Historic Site
Watercolor Painting in Plein Air on T.C. Steele Grounds
Betty Wagoner will lead a class as they explore watercolor and plein air painting techniques and paint in the historic structures, gardens, and natural features of the site.   For details, contact Betty Wagoner.

Watercolor Classes
Beginning Watercolor I and II
Begin with the very basics, learn about supplies and various ways to apply paint to paper. Each class will feature hands-on activities, progressing from simple exercises to a painted piece.
Carol Rhodes will teach these two classes this summer on Monday evenings at the Waldron.  To register, go to https://www.ivytech.edu/bloomington/cll/16634.html#summer or call 812-330-4400.

The Art and Soul of Bloomington
“The Venue challenges you, as an artist, to identify and express your personal experience of Bloomington.”  Early Bird Application Deadline: June 10th, 2017; Final Application Deadline: June 24th, 2017.
The prospectus can be found at http://www.thevenuebloomington.com/Jurried.html

Indiana Artists Exhibit

The 85^th Annual Indiana Artists Exhibit is currently on display through June 11 at the Indianapolis Museum of Art in the Bret Waller Gallery.  This exhibit is free to the public and is located across from the gift shop at the IMA.

TC Steele Festival of Flowers Paint Out
Saturday, May 20, 7:00 – 4:00, marks the final spring paint out.  Preregistration is requested, and all the details can be found at http://www.tcsteele.org/programs/

“Brushstrokes” is the (almost) monthly newsletter
of the Bloomington (Indiana) Watercolor Society
Editor, Jeanne Ellen Dutton
BloomingtonWatercolor.org
WePaintBloomington.org
Info@BloomingtonWatercolor.org

6:10 pm: Call to Order

Welcome and Guest Introductions

Sharon Parsons came as a guest. New members were Barbara Coffman and Tom Tierney. Welcome!

Hospitality thanks (Betty Wagoner/Mary Walker)

Special thanks to Jaqueline Fernette, Mary Walker, Meri Reinhold, Char Dapena, Jeanne Dutton and Bess Lee, who contributed various dishes.

Minutes approval

It was noted that in the Old Business section of earlier minutes, the name needed to be changed from Candi Bailey to Kathy Truelove-Barton. Upon agreement, approval was proposed by Meri Reinhold and seconded by Robin Edmundson. There was unanimous approval.

Treasurer’s report (Patty Uffman)

BWS bank and fund balances were reported. Motion to accept by Jerry Harste and Candi Bailey. There was unanimous approval.

Old Business

Nominations:

The nominating committee submits the following slate for the 2017-2018 season:

Officers:
President: Jane Matranga
First Vice President: Charlotte Griffin
Second Vice President: Nancy Metz
Treasurer: Patti Uffman
Secretary: Erin Duff

Committee Heads:
Activities Chair: Jeanne Dutton
Historian: Candi Bailey
Refreshments: Mary Walker
Programs: Jo Weddle
Publicity: Sara Steffey McQueen
Scholarship: Jo Weddle
Shows: Anne-Karinne Bley
Technology: Carol Rhodes
Plein Air: Kristen Stamper

New Business:

Committee Reports:

Activities (Jeanne Dutton)

There is a table sale at the May meeting. Jeanne Dutton called for donations of surplus art supplies or books.

A paintout is scheduled at Steve Dawson’s farm on April 29. Directions will be provided for members.

LifeDesigns sent a thank-you card to BWS members for a successful show.

The BWS Spring Workshop, “Alcohol Inks and Water Soluble Crayons on Yupo” on Saturday March 25, led by instructor Lynn Busch was well attended. Participants learned different techniques of applying alcohol inks on Yupo. Attendees also experimented with pearl-ex, a mica pigment that can be added to watercolors, and water soluble wax pastels/crayons.

Charlotte Griffin informed members that the annual Garden Walk would be June 17 and 18, and painters will be sought to participate for all gardens on all days. A signup sheet will be passed around in the May meeting, but volunteers are welcome to talk to Charlotte beforehand.

Upland Painters Activities (Kristen Stamper)

Plein Air Exhibition at Bellevue Gallery

The 1^st Annual Plein Air Exhibition of Upland Plein Air Painters & Bloomington Watercolor Society will be at the Bellevue Gallery at the Farmer House Museum April 6 to May 2. upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

Spring Schedule

The spring schedule through May 9 is posted at http://wepaintbloomington.org.

Scholarship (Jo Weddle)

Four applicants have come forward. The foundation committee will meet about it on the 17^th of April. Jo Weddle appealed for additional contributions to be added to the fund in the future, so that the award can be $500. Jeanne Dutton pointed out that the organization cannot do that until it has increased the scholarship fund substantially, because once the commitment of $500 is made, BWS would have to meet that commitment in the future.

Gallery Shows: (Tricia Wente and Anne-Karine Bley)

Signature Member show

A BWS Signature Member show opening reception is planned for 4:30 to 6 pm, May 5, at Meadowwood Retirement Center in May. BWS membership will be updated at the May meeting.

Programs (Jo Weddle)

May program

Robin Edmundson will present a program on color harmony.

Announcements

Betty Wagoner made a plug for people to join the Friends of TC Steele. This is the last year for the Festival of Flowers paint out. Other activities are planned for the spring time slot in the future.

Technology (Carol Rhodes)

Charlotte Griffin asked members present to submit artwork for the BWS Web gallery. Any resolution, format, and size will be accepted.

Monthly Program

Jerry Harste presented a program in abstract techniques, with the theme, “Gamboling Goats.”

Adjourned 8:30 pm

Submitted by Carol Rhodes, BWS Secretary.

Coming Monthly Meeting

Monday, April 10, 2017  6:00 p.m.

First Christian Church

Corner of Kirkwood and Washington Streets

Bloomington, IN

After a brief and important business meeting and some delicious refreshments, Jerry Harste, BWS Signature member, will present the program, “Gamboling Goats.”

Jerry paints “goats” as a warm up exercise.  Each time he sits down to paint, he first paints a goat trying a different water media technique.  In this program, he will share a technique he calls “Finding Figures in Foil Prints.”  Participants will do a “Where is Waldo” painting (on 8”x8” watercolor paper) as well as a “Goat” (or an animal of their choice) on an 8”x8” canvas panel (which has been prepared with a coating of gesso and absorbent ground so watercolor paints will adhere). His PowerPoint presentation will walk participants through each procedure as well as show some other painting in which Jerry has used this technique as part of the painting.  All materials will be provided, although it would be nice if some of you would bring your hair dryer.  All he asks is that you come ready to play.

BWS Events Calendar (See below for further details.)

Friday, April 7, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., Opening Reception

BWS Upland Plein Air Painters 1st Annual Plein Air Exhibition

Opening Reception Friday, April 7, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
1st Annual Plein Air Exhibition of the Bloomington Watercolor Society’s Upland Plein Air Painters.

The show will be on exhibit from April 6 – May 2, 2017 at Bellevue Gallery in the Farmer House Museum, 529 North College, Bloomington, IN.

Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00  p.m.  Contact the Gallery at 812.336.5597.

Saturday, April 29, Weekend Paint Out at the Farm

10:00 – 2:00, Hosts Steve Dawson and Jeanne Dutton

Friday, May 5, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., Opening Reception

BWS Signature Member Show (Details to be announced.)

Monday, May 8, 6:00 p.m., Monthly Meeting and TABLE SALE

Saturday, May 20 – Festival of Flowers Paint Out at T.C. Steele, 7:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Table Sale to Support the Scholarship

Ladies and Gentlemen, have you started your spring cleaning?  Especially in your studio?  Please consider donating all your extra art supplies to BWS – you know you have plenty of extra, right?!  As all we artists do?

At the May meeting, starting at 5:30 and then after the meeting, the supplies you donate will be sold to fellow members and all proceeds go to support the BWS Scholarship.  Last year was a great success, so pitch in!  Good, clean, useable art supplies are welcome.

For details and information, contact Jeanne at info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

Member Activities

Congratulations to two BWS Signature members, Jerry Harste and Sara Steffey McQueen.

One of Jerry’s paintings is the cover for the latest issue of “Literacy Practice and Research” magazine.

Literacy Practice & Research magazine cover by Jerry Harste, BWS

Sara Steffey-McQueen next to “Wild Women”

Sara’s linocut print, “Wild Women,” was accepted into the 37^th Annual National Print Exhibition at Artlink Contemporary Gallery at 300 E. Main Street in Fort Wayne.  The exhibit runs March 31-May 7, 2017.  For hours and more, contact the gallery at (260) 424-7195.

Phyllis Taylor is the featured artist for April at the Tempo Gallery in Astoria, Oregon.  It’s an all-watercolor show featuring (mostly) portraits.  Phyllis says, “In addition to framed portraits, I’m going to have all the snippets of Arches paper with studies of eyes, mouths, noses, & rough sketches pinned to a big cork board with a header of ‘Practice, practice, practice!’

Sleepy by Phyllis Taylor 2017

Don Geyra is having an exhibit at the Wiley Art Center, 1402 J Street in Bedford, April 27 to May 19.  The reception is Friday, April 28 from 5:00 -7:00 p.m. and everyone is welcome.  Light refreshments will be served.

BWS Upland Plein Air Painters

Finally, spring is here – let the outdoor painting begin!  Everyone is welcome to join in these events.  For details, contact upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org

• Wednesday, April 12, Azalea Park & Arboretum, Host: Kathy Barton  NOTE: This site is 2 hours away, so it’s an all-day event.
• Tuesday, April 18, TC Steele Historic Site, Host: Anne-Karine Bley
• Tuesday, April 25, Shades State Park, Host: Betty Wagoner
• Tuesday, May 2, Champs Barn, Host: Sandi Nitti
• Tuesday, May 9, Griffy Lake, Host: Penny Lulich

Arts in the Parks Workshops with artist Betty Wagoner

Saturday, May 13, 2017, 1-4 p.m. at T.C. Steele State Historic Site.

Watercolor Painting in Plein Air on T.C. Steele Grounds

We will explore watercolor and plein air painting techniques and paint the historic structures, gardens, and natural features of the site.

Saturday, June 10, 2017, 9:30 am-4 pm at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

Watercolor Painting at the Lake

• 9:30-Noon – We will explore watercolor and plein air painting techniques
• 12:30-4pm – Open house featuring watercolor pencil demos and visitor experimentation with watercolor pencils.

Saturday July 8, 2017, 1-4 p.m. at T.C. Steele State Historic Site

Watercolor Painting in Plein Air on T.C. Steele Grounds.

• We will explore watercolor and plein air painting techniques and paint the historic structures, gardens, and natural features of the site.

Saturday, August 12, 9:30 am-4 pm – Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

Watercolor Painting at the Lake

• 9:30-Noon – We will explore watercolor and plein air painting techniques
• 12:30-4pm – Open house featuring watercolor pencil demos and visitor experimentation with watercolor pencils.

BWS Spring Workshop

Well, that was interesting!  Lynn Busch from Louisville treated us to a fun day playing with a new medium, alcohol inks.  Dropping and drizzling on plastic “paper” known as Yupo, the designs were free flowing.  Many thanks to all who helped set up, take down, and clean up.  And to Andrew Preston of Preston Arts Center for his help, too, in organizing with the artist instructor.

Diane Thayer being creative

Jeanne Dutton’s journal with alcohol ink

Maura Stanton & Nancy Metz working with alcohol ink on Yupo

OPPORTUNITIES

Call for Entries for the Art and Soul of Bloomington II

“We at The Venue believe that Bloomington is a very special place, a place that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit of those who are privileged to call it home, and those who only visit for days, weeks, months, or years. While we recognize that Bloomington has its challenges, we are not shy about our belief in Bloomington Exceptionalism. The Venue challenges you, as an artist, to identify and express your personal experience of Bloomington.”

Early Bird Application Deadline: June 10th, 2017;  Final Application Deadline: June 24th, 2017.

The prospectus can be found at http://www.thevenuebloomington.com/Jurried.html

2018 Call for Submissions

Ivy Tech John Waldron Arts Center

March 22-May 12, 2017

Find the details at https://ivytech.slideroom.com/#/Login

“Audubon: Drawn to Nature”

This exhibit is at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, April 1 – July 30. Check it out at http://www.imamuseum.org/exhibition/audubon-drawn-nature

“Brushstrokes” is the (almost) monthly newsletter

of the Bloomington (Indiana) Watercolor Society

Editor, Jeanne Ellen Dutton

BloomingtonWatercolor.org

WePaintBloomington.org

Info@BloomingtonWatercolor.org

Bloomington Watercolor Society

March 13, 2017

President Charlotte Griffin called the meeting to order shortly after 6 p.m.

Hospitality

Mary Walker thanked the following members who had provided refreshments for the meeting: Candi Bailey, Kriste Lindberg, Charlotte Griffin, and Char Dapena. Mary also brought food for the evening.

Minutes

Meri Reinhold moved and Betty Wagoner seconded that the minutes of the Feb. 13, 2017, meeting be accepted as submitted with no additions, deletions, or corrections.

Treasurer’s Report

Treasurer Patty Uffman reported the BWS bank and fund balances.

Old Business

• Notecard Set II is available for sale at The Venue. Tricia Wente will see if The Monroe County History Center will continue to sell the sets as well.
• Nominations Committee Chair Patty Uffman announced that Bev Ohneck Holly and Kathy Truelove-Barton are serving on the Committee with her. Patty distributed a sheet with brief descriptions of all board and committee positions and asked those currently serving in those posts to describe their duties. She encouraged members to volunteer to be considered for the 2017-18 slate or to agree to serve if asked.

New Business

Programs

Jo Weddle announced a change in the programs scheduled for April and May. Jerry Harste will be leading a program called “Gamboling Goats: Exploring Technique” at the April 10 meeting. Robin Edmundson will present “Basic Color Theory for Painters” at the May 8 meeting.

Shows

Tricia Wente reported that Jerry Harste, Mary Jo Cannedy, and Deb Rush sold paintings from the Art of Chocolate Show. In addition, Tricia sold two paintings from the Art of Chocolate keynote event. $600 was raised through the sale of paintings and cards.

The next show will be the Upland Painters exhibition.

Upland Painters

Kristen Stamper invited members to join the weekly painting group and to sign up for the email distribution list.

She then distributed the Prospectus for the Plein Air Exhibition, April 6 – May 2 at the Farmer House Museum’s Bellevue Gallery. To be eligible for the show, works must be 2D and created at least 75% in plein air at paintouts sponsored by Upland or BWS. Works may be in any media except photography. Maximum artwork size (before framing) is 11 x 15 inches.

Deliver work: Bellevue Gallery, 529 N. College Ave., Bloomington, on Wednesday, April 5 between 10 a.m. and noon.

Opening reception: Friday, April 7, 5 – 8 p.m.

Pick up: Wednesday, May 3, 10 a.m. to noon.

Penny Lulich is the coordinator for weekly events in April and May.

Kristen announced other upcoming events:M

• March 21: Visit to Pygmalion’s and to BWS Member Lynne Gilliatt’s show at the Thomas Gallery
• April 4: Spring Mill
• April 12: Azalea Farm in Hazelton
• April 18: T.C. Steele Historic Site

Scholarship

Jeanne Dutton announced the May meeting will include a Table Sale with proceeds going to the BWS Scholarship Fund. Members are asked to bring gently used or new art supplies, magazines, and books to the meeting to be sold. Jeanne asked members to put a price on the items they bring.

Workshop

The BWS Spring Workshop, “Alcohol Ink and Water Soluble Crayons,” is scheduled for March 25, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lynn Busch, from Jacquard Products and Preston Arts Center will be the instructor.

Participants should bring a Brown Bag lunch.

Jeanne also distributed the new BWS rack cards, designed by Carol Rhodes and featuring artwork by Sara Steffey McQueen and Nancy Davis Metz.

Adjournment

Tricia Wente moved and Char Dapena seconded that the meeting be adjourned.

Following a brief break, Jacki Frey presented a program, “Value Sketch Study using Black or Payne’s Gray.”

Upcoming Monthly Meeting

Monday, March 13, 2017
6:00 p.m.
First Christian Church
Bloomington

After refreshments, socializing, and a short business meeting, BWS Signature Member Jacki Frey will present a program on creating a “Value Study Sketch Using Black or Payne’s Grey Watercolor for Sketching.”

Supplies to bring to the meeting are black or Payne’s Grey paint, a pencil, eraser, quarter sheets of watercolor paper or watercolor pad, and round brushes size 8 and 12.

Also, bring a favorite photo.  Jacki will provide some photos as well.

New Signature Members

Congratulations to the two new Signature members, Cathy Korinek and Donna Whitsitt.  To become a Signature member, certain criteria must be met.  Then, the applicants submit a selection of their work and their credentials before being “judged” by an outside juror.  Interested in applying?  The next opening will be in January 2018.  Questions can be directed to Tricia Wente.

Left to Right: Donna Whitsitt, Cathy Korinek

Welcome, New Members

Hello and welcome to Marie Kosakowski, Henry Leck, Diane Thayer, Debra Tocco, and Grant Wood.  Glad you could join us, and hope to see you soon!

BWS Spring Workshop

“Alcohol Inks and Water Soluble Crayons on Yupo”

March 25, Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
First Christian Church, Bloomington

Come learn about the versatility and magic of alcohol inks on Yupo!  This workshop will inspire artists of all levels to loosen up and go with the flow. We will create abstract and non-objective works while learning the qualities of this vibrant medium. The day will start with making samples of different techniques.

We will take an intermission before lunch to introduce pearl-ex, a mica pigment that can be added to your watercolors, and water soluble wax pastels/crayons.

After lunch, you’ll apply the learned processes in your own way with suggestions and guidance.

Instructor:  Lynn Busch, who has a BFA from Berea College, is an Artist and Educator with Jacquard Products, and a manager and teacher at Preston Arts Center in Louisville.

ALL details can be found at http://bloomingtonwatercolor.org/home/activities/2017-spring-workshop/, or contact Jeanne at info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

MEMBER ACTIVITIES

BWS has new Rack Cards, thanks to Carol Rhodes!  If you are participating in an exhibit or a craft show or are represented by a gallery, please consider taking some rack cards along with you.  Contact Jeanne at Info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org for a supply.

Sarah & Salmon by Phyllis Taylor

Congratulations to….

Phyllis Taylor, BWS’ Northwest Coast “affiliate,” was one of 19 artists, from a group of 80, juried into a show at the Cannon Beach Arts Association (Oregon) titled “Contemporary Portraiture.” Juror was Martha Lee, owner of Russo Lee Gallery, Portland.

Works explore what role portraits now play in society with today’s “selfie” culture. Taylor’s work, “Afternoon Catch,” is a portrait of friend Sarah holding a large salmon she’d caught–and looking pretty pleased about it. This was the first juried show Phyllis has entered since moving to Oregon.

Wild Women by Sara Steffey-McQueen

Sara Steffey-McQueen’s linoleum print, “Wild Women,” was juried into the 37th Annual National Print Exhibition at Artlink Contemporary Gallery.  The opening reception is March 31, 6-9 pm, at the gallery, 300 East Main Street in Ft. Wayne.

BWS Upland Painters

Reporting: Kristen Stamper
Upland Plein Air Painters Plans a Busy April.
BWS’ 1st Plein Air Exhibition will open during Gallery Walk, 5-8 p.m. on April 7, at the Bellevue Gallery in the Farmer House Museum at 529 N. College St.  Over 30 BWS artists are planning to participate. Please come out and share the fun of this exciting review of local scenes painted on location at numerous BWS sponsored paint outs. The show will be on display through May 2, Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
In preparation for the Plein Air Exhibition, Kathy Barton and Donna Whitsitt are hosting a framing workshop. Ever the DIY divas, they will demonstrate framing techniques and share their knowledge on sources and professionally framing artwork yourself, including cost-saving approaches that can offer more flexibility than purchasing these services. Please contact upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org to reserve your spot and receive full details.
Finally, with the return of spring weather we will be outside to paint, starting in April. Please join us for any of these events. Please contact upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org for details.

• Tuesday, March 7, 10 a.m.-12 noon, Framing workshop, downtown location TBD, Host: Kathy Barton & Donna Whitsitt
• Tuesday, April 4, 9 a.m.-12 noon, Spring Mill State Park, Host: Rose Brenner
• Wednesday, April 5, 10 a.m.-12 noon, Turn in paintings for Plein Air Show at Bellevue Gallery, 529 N. College St.
• Friday, April 7, 5 p.m.-8 p.m., Opening reception for 1st Plein Air Show at Bellevue Gallery, 529 N. College St.
• Wednesday, April 12, All Day,  Azalea Path & Arboretum in Hazleton, Indiana, Host: Kathy Barton
• Tuesday, April 18, 9 a.m.-12 noon, TC Steele State Historic Site, Host: Anne-Karine Bley

Arts in the Parks

Betty Wagoner received a grant for the state “Arts in the Parks” program. The workshop sessions will take place March through August, so watch here for later opportunities, or contact Betty.

• Saturday, March 25, 1-4 p.m.  TC Steele State Historic Site, in the Large Studio.

A brief review of watercolor pencil techniques and plein air techniques used by TC Steele as evidenced in his paintings.

• Saturday, May 13, 1-4 p.m. – TC Steele State Historic Site, Watercolor plein air painting workshop.

Watercolor techniques and plein air basics will be covered and participants will paint around the grounds.

The Art of Chocolate

Thank you to all the BWS artists who participated in the Mardi Gras show and painted at the Keynote event.  We can be proud that sales of our art generated over $600 for LIFEDesigns!  The exhibit will remain at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage through March 27.

Please pick up your paintings between 11:00 – 2:00, at the Vault on March 28.

Penance, Mardi Gras Style by Jerry Harste

Best in Show, C’est fou, by Deborah Rush

Babette Ballinger holding a painting by Tricia Wente at Art of Chocolate

OPPORTUNITIES

Eco-Heroes Contest
The City of Bloomington Environmental Commission announces the sixth annual Eco-Heroes Contest. While this art contest has always been for local K-12 students, this year the Environmental Commission is collaborating with the Commission on Aging to pilot an additional category for adults. Entries are due Friday, March 31 at 5:00 p.mm at the City’s Planning and Transportation Department in City Hall. For more information, contact Sarah Green, City of Bloomington Environmental Commission.

Orchids in Watercolor at the Indianapolis Museum of Art
Now through July 9, IMA offers a wonderful show of botanical watercolors.  This exhibition features “30 orchid watercolors collected by Josiah K. Lilly, son of the founder of Eli Lilly and Company and its president from 1898 until 1932.  Through these works, significant for both their scientific accuracy and aesthetic quality, guests will be able to explore botanical facts about orchids and learn more about the Lilly family’s interest in collecting and growing them.” http://www.imamuseum.org/exhibition/lilly-collection-orchids-watercolors

Frederick William Bolas (English, 1871–1951), Orchid: Cypripedium smithae, 1907, watercolor on Whatman’s water colour sketching board, Indianapolis Museum of Art, Gift of Mrs. J.K. Lilly, 63.81

Happy St. Patty’s Day!

Minutes of the Bloomington Watercolor Society Membership meeting

February 13, 2016, 6 pm     First Christian Church

6:05 pm: Call to Order

Welcome and Guest Introductions

Meeting guests were Barbara Coffman, Tom Tierney, and Billie Moore. Debra Tocco attended her first meeting as a new member. Welcome!

Hospitality thanks (Betty Wagoner/Mary Walker)

Special thanks to Mary Walker, Patty Uffman, Jeanne Dutton, Jo Weddle, Kristen Stamper, and Betty Wagoner, who contributed various dishes.

Minutes approval

No changes to the January minutes were submitted by the members. Motion to approve was submitted by Candi Bailey and seconded by Kathy Barton. There was unanimous approval.

Treasurer’s report (Patty Uffman)

BWS bank and fund balances were reported.

Old Business

Signature member update

New signature members are Cathy Korinek and Donna Whitsitt. Congratulations!

Spring 2017 Program/Activity Calendar distribution

Jo Weddle distributed an activities calendar extending through July 2017. Programs are currently posted on the website. Paintouts will be posted soon. The first Saturday paintout of the spring is April 29 at Steve Dawson’s farm. More information to come soon.

New Business:

Committee Reports

Nomination Committee (Charlotte Griffin)

Charlotte Griffin appealed for volunteers for the 2017/2018 year.

Activities (Jeanne Dutton)

Jeanne Dutton reported at least 100 attended the WE PAINT…Mardi Gras–the Art of Chocolate event at The Vault.   Best of Show was awarded to Deb Rush; the runner-up was Donna Whitsitt. BWS generated, through sales of paintings and greeting cards, approximately $500 for LIFEDesigns.

A spring workshop on alcohol inks and water-soluble crayons will be facilitated by Lynn Bush on March 25^th. Registration is in progress. Jeanne Dutton distributed a handout with specific information. Details can also be found at bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

The City of Bloomington Environmental Commission announces the sixth annual Eco-Heroes Contest. While this art contest has always been for local K-12 students, this year the Environmental Commission is collaborating with the Commission on Aging to pilot an additional category for adults. Entries are due Friday, March 31 at 5:00 pm at the City’s Planning and Transportation Department in City Hall. For more information, contact Sarah Green, City of Bloomington Environmental Commission.

Upland Painters Activities (Kristen Stamper)

Plein Air Exhibition at Bellevue Gallery
The 1^st Annual Plein Air Exhibition of Upland Plein Air Painters & Bloomington Watercolor Society will be at the Bellevue Gallery at the Farmer House Museum April 6 to May 2. The reception will be Friday April 7 from 5 to 8pm. Members have already signed up to participate and there is a waiting list to exhibit. The prospectus was distributed and posted online at bloomingtonwatercolor.org. For more information, contact upland@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

Brown County paintout and other activities
Kristen Stamper reported that several came to the painting retreat in Brown County, with five participants staying in a cabin. Upcoming activities were also mentioned. The current Upland schedule is at bloomingtonwatercolor.org.

Scholarship (Jo Weddle)

Sara Steffey-McQueen has distributed posters advertising the $300 scholarship to teachers in the two high schools. Proposals are due at the end of March.

Gallery Shows: (Tricia Wente and Anne-Karine Bley)

Bicentennial show pickup
Pickups for the Bicentennial show at the Monroe County History Museum was scheduled for February 21 from 2-4pm.

Signature Member show
A BWS Signature Member show is in the works for Meadowwood Retirement Center. More information is forthcoming.

Programs (Jo Weddle)

March program

Jacki Frey will present a demonstration on watercolor value study. A description will be distributed prior to the meeting.

Technology (Carol Rhodes)

Charlotte Griffin asked members present to submit artwork for the BWS Web gallery. Any resolution, format, and size will be accepted.

Monthly Program

Tricia Wente and Carol Rhodes delivered a presentation called “Master Disasters,” on how to fix mistakes and prevent mishaps.

Adjourned 8:30 pm
Submitted by Carol Rhodes, BWS Secretary.