illustration friday

Hierarchy

I know my sister loves me,

because she gives me all her old clothes

and has to go out and buy new ones...

Illustration Friday is a weekly illustration challenge. A topic is posted every Friday and then participants have all week to come up with their own interpretation. Read more about it here: http://www.illustrationfriday.com/about_p.php

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

~ Theater

Now THIS drama princess has a face for the theater!

Illustration Friday is a weekly illustration challenge. A topic is posted every Friday and then participants have all week to come up with their own interpretation. Read more about it here: http://www.illustrationfriday.com/about_p.php

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

IF~Impossibility

Illustration Friday is a weekly illustration challenge. A topic is posted every Friday and then participants have all week to come up with their own interpretation. Read more about it here: http://www.illustrationfriday.com/about_p.php

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Illustration Friday ~ Fleeting

We worry about what a child will become tomorrow, yet we forget that he is someone today. ~Stacia Tauscher

Illustration Friday is a weekly illustration challenge. A topic is posted every Friday and then participants have all week to come up with their own interpretation. Read more about it here: http://www.illustrationfriday.com/about_p.php

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Illustration Friday~Talisman

The word for Illustration Friday's week of April 3rd is Talisman...

No better way to be charmed than by this Lucky Pup!..ok... that's a stretch, but you get the picture!

Illustration Friday is a weekly illustration challenge. A topic is posted every Friday and then participants have all week to come up with their own interpretation. Read more about it here: http://www.illustrationfriday.com/about_p.php

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Illustration Friday ~ Poise

Luna was poised with genuine enthusiasm for wherever life would take her next...

Illustration Friday is a weekly illustration challenge. A topic is posted every Friday and then participants have all week to come up with their own interpretation. Read more about it here: http://www.illustrationfriday.com/about_p.php

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Illustration Friday

Either way you look at it, whether you take the bottle from the baby or you give it to him, you are still subtracting someone's agony.

Illustration Friday is a weekly illustration challenge. A topic is posted every Friday and then participants have all week to come up with their own interpretation. Read more about it here: http://www.illustrationfriday.com/about_p.php

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Patricia Tribute

I'm feeling a little nostalgic today. I just discovered that my ex-brother in law and his wife have a bit part in the movie "Midnight Bayou" this weekend (Saturday to be exact), on Lifetime TV. I'm so thrilled for them, I know they are so excited, I'M excited FOR them! They sent me a picture of themselves all dressed up for the part and they are so adorable. It made me think of the last time I talked to him which was when I was visiting the home of my sister Patricia, his ex, right after she passed away and he called to offer his condolences. Patti and I would have gotten a big kick out of this news if she was still here....damn.
You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Seriously...Spring has SPRUNG!

Hallelujah!!! There's light at the end of the snow encrusted tunnel!!!Spring has sprung and I can feel it in my bones...it's gonna be a great one! It looks as though this guy is a little apprehensive, not sure whether or not to really believe the snow is gone for good, even though he's sitting right in the middle of the flower bed. Michigan has a sneaky way sometimes of making you think spring is here and then the next day it will snow like crazy. I'm keeping the faith. Nothing makes me appreciate spring more than living here, I seem to notice the smallest of signs that something new is about to happen, starting with SEEING THE GROUND, tiny buds on the most lifeless plants, the sky is a different shade...you know....BLUE. I was witness to the biggest fattest and I'm assuming, most pregnant robin red breast of all time in my front yard yesterday. Three of them to be exact, but one was obviously octo-robin, which might be a normal thing for robins I'm not sure. I know they have a few at a time, but I'm not certain if eight is the actual number. The buds are swelling on my lilac bushes outside of my windows, one of the very first signs that there will be glorious renewed life in my gardens. Good-bye winter...don't let the door hit ya where the sun don't shine (literally)...see ya, wouldn't wanna be ya... Welcome spring...your room is ready!

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Finesse of the Feline Fanny

This has always been a favorite of mine. Although the original acrylic has long been sold, the prints continue to be a big success. Even though I no longer have a cat, I always had one while growing up until a few years back (not the growing up... I mean having a cat. I still haven't grown up and don't intend to any time soon). As time has passed, I've decided to wad my dogs and cats up into one convenient package. My dogs are now the size of cats, have the same demanding attitude as cats and while they too think they are ruling the roost, they at least make it outside to pee, unlike my last cat did as he reached old age. I do remember though that much of the time I had this view of my feline's fanny... his choice...not mine.


You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

EBSQ Art of the Day

I'm honored to have had my work featured for EBSQ's Art of the Day on 03/07/2009. This particular work is titled "Groovy kind of Love." I have displayed this piece here before but since it has been honored, I feel like it needs to be displayed again. I am a huge rescue dog advocate (in my family, we own two) and this little guy just happens to be a rescue also. I donate a portion of my sales on Etsy to Last Chance Animal Rescue and Horses Haven in Howell Mi. You can read more about this EBSQ featured work and see each day's featured art here: http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtOfTheDay/cmd_20090307_ArtOfTheDay_Pastels.htm
What is EBSQ?
EBSQ is a creative space that provides art marketing tools and serves as a hub for the self rep and indie artist community.
The theme for last week was Pastels.
A pastel is a stick of pure, ground pigment held together with a binder. Some prefer the more chalky soft or hard pastels. Some prefer oil pastels. All require practice, but in the right hands, pastels are a medium without peer.
Thank you EBSQ for including me in last week's featured art!


You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Update on The Artist Project by Gerry and Lori Pas!!!

photo courtesy of Gerry Pas

This from Lori Pas:

Yep! It's still news!
Amy Lockhard, a very fun & talented reporter & videographer for the Spinal Column Newspaper, contacted Gerry & I recently and asked about the AP. She knew it was "old news," yet wanted to know what had transpired since then. So she came to interview us & her video-interview came out TODAY. Please watch it by going to http://www.spinalcolumnonline.com/ --Once you get there, scroll down the page to the bottom right & THERE IT IS! ENJOY! We love our precious community of artists! We continue to be inspired by you and we continue to THANK each and every one of you!

With love & hugs,

Lori & Gerry

You can see The Artist Project website here: http://www.theartistsproject.com/

To purchase a book contact Lori or Gerry Pas at glolight@comcast.net

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

ATC ACEO Trading Trend

I am a long standing member of the The Village Fine Arts Association in MI. I've just finished up my two year stint as president and look forward to spending more time painting, working on illustrating the children's books I have lined up and working with all the other volunteers on the creative events the VFAA holds for their members. At one of the upcoming VFAA meetings, there will be an ATC trade off, where artists can bring their Art Cards and trade them with each other. I have been creating these cards for quite some time now and selling them on Etsy, so I thought I would post one here for the looking. For those that don't know, Artist Trading Cards (or ATCs) are miniature works of art about the same size as baseball cards, they should measure 2.5 x 3.5 inches in size and be thin enough to fit inside standard card-collector pockets, sleeves or sheets. The ATC movement developed out of the mail art movement and was originated in Switzerland. The cards are usually traded or exchanged rather than sold. An offshoot (or kissing cousins) of Artist Trading Cards are the "Art Cards, Editions, and Originals" (ACEO). ACEOs originated when some artists began to create cards to sell, in addition to trading among themselves, which is only right because after all, we are starving aren't we? So there you go, now you know what they are and for those of you that will be at the VFAA/ATC meeting...get busy...you got some tradin' ta do!

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn and the companion mouse puppet, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Looking Glass

I'm trying to organize the studio and straighten up around here a bit and while doing so I came across this children's book illustration I created for a client in 2001. I really like her so I thought I would post her here until I got looking at her out of my system.

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn (and the companion mouse puppet separately), prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Baby Daddy...

Wow! It seems like such a short time ago that she was this young! This used to be a typical Saturday morning in our house! Two peas in a pod they were...still are...only older. Oh how we've come full circle, she's still doing his hair, a little differently of course, to this very day.

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn (and the companion mouse puppet separately), prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Where My Story Begins by Rachel Longhurst

Rachel Longhurst, author of "where MY story begins" is currently working on her second book, "The Enchanted Tree of Crooked Lake" and has chosen me as her illustrator for the project. Her first book, "where my story begins" has been placed as a "Finalist" in the "Children's Picture Book: Hardcover Non-fiction" category - Best Book 2006 National Book Awards! While the second book is under construction, I bet you or someone you know would just LOVE this sweet story about a Labrador Retriever named Corey, a Golden Retriever named Lucas and the lessons they learn through their friendship. Click on the following link to read more about this book and it's author, Rachel Longhurst... http://www.wheremystorybegins.com/ . While I'm busy with this newest book project, over the next few weeks, I will be displaying some of my favorite art work from 2008. In the mean time, take a peek at Rachel's website to see more of this heartwarming tale about these precious pups! A story for animals lovers of ALL ages!

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins" by Diane E Dunn (and the companion mouse puppet separately), prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Pom Nirvana

The end of 2008 was rather sad, what with the loss of some of our animal family members (Bunji and Buddy...see Dec 3rd entry below.) So the first thing we did for all of us for the holidays was rescue a sweet, sweet Pomeranian from Last Chance Rescue in Howell MI. His name is Zeus. He is the most adorable, most loving pup you'll ever know. He's to the far left in the still picture above, with my daughter Lauren and his new cousins Enzo and Reilly. Zeus spends his time with Lauren. They cannot be separated from each other for a New York minute and she has not even let me babysit him in fear that she just might not get him back (I dunno...that is, after all, a possibility!) Reilly (the sable Pom in the napping video) was having a little trouble getting over the loss of Bunji, our Sheltie that passed away before the holidays, so for her Christmas present, she received a little baby brother. His name is Enzo. He's the little black and white Pomeranian in both videos. We rescued him from Indian Creek Sanctuary just across the border in Ohio.
Reilly has always taken a liking to my husband Dean and does everything with him from splitting wood, to feeding horses, to riding the four wheeler and watching TV...traitor. No matter how I've tried to bribe her to love me the most she'll have no part of it, since she truly believes Dean to be her giant play toy. Play trumps snacks and cuddling. HOWEVER...Enzo, has decided that I am the cat's meow, the Pom's paradise, the doggie's delight and spends his every waking (and sleeping) moment with ME! HA!!! ...at least for now anyway...knock on wood...He's a cuddler, sleeping in my lap as I type, following me into the studio when I work, watching every move I make and even hangs on my every word (now there's something, nobody around here does THAT!) It looks as though 2009 is starting out as a good year for all of them, each with a loving place in his and her little world.

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book (and the companion mouse puppet separately), prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Big Toys for Little Boys

Some us in the snowy north, need a reminder here and there that it is actually still fall. Technically, winter has not even started yet! Go figure. You would never be able to tell that from looking out MY window at the several inches of the white stuff on the ground right now! Not to mention the 20 degrees that blast me in the face each and every time I walk out the door! Being the glutton for punishment that I am though, I have to say I do love the beauty of it all.

So for the rest of you who are still enjoying the crisp fall air, here is an 11" X 14" pastel portrait of a little guy I finished last month taking time to enjoy an autumn ride on his favorite tractor! Ah...those little boys and their big toys!!!

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book (and the companion mouse puppet separately), prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

A little down in the dumps...

Reilly
Twister



Twister and I (Reilly) have been a little down in the dumps lately since the loss of our two brothers Buddy and Bunji. We loved them so much and miss them dearly.







Buddy ?-2008

Bunji 1993-2008

MIlford Times Arts and Greens

Authors and illustrators (from left) Michele Roger, Donna Pellegata, Diane Dunn and Dave Mann will be signing their books and CDs at the Arts and Greens Holiday Market this weekend at the Bogie Lake Greenhouse in White Lake. Not pictured is Heiner Hertling, who will be signing "A Pirate's Quest" by Laura and Robert Sams, which he illustrated. The group is posing in front of a sampling of Hertling's art at his workshop in Milford. (Photo by Hal Gould, Staff Photographer)

Sarah Losey (left) and Olivia Pas make gingerbread houses during last year's Holiday Arts and Greens

Market. The event offers a variety of activities and entertainment. (Photo by Gerry Pas)

HVCA Holiday Extravaganza Starts Tomorrow
By Aileen Wingblad • STAFF WRITER • November 20, 2008

Activities galore will usher in the holiday season this weekend at a three-day event in White Lake.

Beginning tomorrow and running through Sunday, the Huron Valley Council for the Arts and Bogie Lake Greenhouse, Inc. present the 2008 Arts and Greens Holiday Market at the greenhouses on Bogie Lake Road in White Lake.
The celebration includes live music, book signings, artists' booths offering unique gift-buying opportunities, craft-making, professional storytelling and more."Definitely, this is a wonderful place to start your holiday shopping," said Becca Arrington, an HVCA member and public relations specialist who is helping to publicize the event.

THE KICK OFF
The artists' booths open at 5 p.m. Friday, to kick off the festivities. Paintings, basketry, photography and tote bags from more than 20 local artists are some of the items available for purchase. Artists booths will be open throughout the weekend.
"Usually, they are priced quite reasonably, and it's all made in the Huron Valley region," Arrington said. "So you can 'buy Michigan' - which is a really big thing right now."
Friday also offers the opportunity to help support the Community Sharing outreach center while enjoying a tasty meal. From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. is the "Empty Bowls: Community Sharing" benefit. A $10 donation supplies a bowl of soup, bread and dessert. The food is being donated by Duke's of Highland, Milford House Bar and Grill, Gravity and Saint George's Cafe.
The bowls are hand-crafted by Huron Valley Schools students and are yours to keep. Additional bowls without soup are available for a $5 donation. All proceeds will be turned over to Community Sharing.
Story lovers will enjoy a performance by the North Oakland County Storytellers, "Tellebration! A Time for Stories," on Friday, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 and will also cover admission to two other NOCS events on Saturday, elsewhere in the local area.
Musical entertainment on Friday will be provided by Doug Larsen. Artist Heiner Hertling will also be on hand to sign books and videos of "A Pirate's Quest" by Laura and Robert Sams, which he illustrated.

MORE IN STORE
The celebration continues on Saturday with art sales, book signing by artist Donna Pellegata, illustrator of the children's book, "Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins," by Diane Dunn from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and book signing and readings by poet David Mann, author of "The Ties That Bind" from 1 to 3 p.m. Hertling returns from 3 to 5 p.m. for more signings, as well.
Winter Greens workshops are Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. presented by the professionals at Bogie Lake Greenhouses. Projects in the past have included topiaries, wreaths and centerpieces, Arrington said. For the younger set, there will be ongoing kid-friendly workshops Saturday and Sunday. For a $1 materials fee, kids can make and decorate a basket. They can also choose graham cracker house making for a $12.50 materials fee.

Upcoming Show and Book Signing

One Weekend, THREE Great Events

Visit our Blogspot for more event and artist information.

Arts & Greens Holiday Market

November 21-23

Stop by and see me here! I'd love to meet you if I haven't already! Diane E Dunn and I will be signing our new children's book! We'll be featured at the grandstand between 11am - 1 pm on Saturday November 22 and I'll be there all weekend. I'll have a booth full of great holiday art gifts and our fresh off the press illustrated children's book ready to sign for you!

Bogie Lake Greenhouses, Inc., (see map link below) collaborates with the Huron Valley Council for the Arts to host 2008's annual Arts & Greens Holiday Market. Friday 5-8pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, and Sunday 10am-5pm at 1525 Bogie Lake Road, White Lake, Michigan, 48383.Purchase unique fine art and craft gifts and meet the artists who make them. Enjoy local author/artist book signings, live music, and holiday ambiance surrounded by Bogie Lake Greenhouse's festive plants, flowers, and greens. Complimentary admission, ample parking at no charge.Weekend activities and additional ticketed events detailed below.

MEET MICHIGAN ARTISTS:
Mary Bajcz Diane Banister Pat Bombach Connie Elwood Natalie Helm Frances Johnson Lee Johnson Robyn Kane Beverly Larsen Carole Larsen Linda Locher Jaclyn McClure Richard McKee Lynne McLean Jessica Muraco Linda Onderko Donna Pellegata Dan Persinger Pam Proctor Jennifer Proescher Cindy Purola Ken Sigler Mary Stark Shelley Stevenson Barb Weisenburg Jim Williams Wendy Willihnganz, more! The Art Shop: Cathy Catallo, Jeanne DeHaan, Helen Fischer, Gail Hayton, Dorothy Kane, Susan Pugliese The Basket Sampler: Kathy McMinn, Rebecca Arrington, Nina Vickers

ONGOING EVENTS: Visual artists & booths on-site all weekend. Ongoing workshops include Kids Basket Making by The Basket Sampler ($1.00 materials fee) and Graham Cracker House Making ($12.50 for materials and instruction) with Questers.

Featured Artists and Activities:

Friday, Nov. 21 (5-8 PM) Earlybird Shopping

5-7:30pm. "Empty Bowls," Ticketed event. See accompanying article
Heiner Hertling - Book and video signing, Illustrator for "A Pirate's Quest", authors Laura & Robert Sams. Sculptor, painter, PBS film series "Your Brush with Nature" host.

6pm. Gala Opening:
Welcoming by HVCA Executive Director, Leah Ohmer
Comments by "Community Sharing", Mel Boomer
Live music with Doug Larsen
7pm. "Tellabration!" opens - Ticketed event. See accompanying article.

Saturday, Nov. 22 (9 AM-5 PM)

11am-1pm Donna Pellegata , Book signing, Illustrator for "The Harp Mouse Chooses Her Home: The Adventure Begins," author Diane Dunn

1-2pm Winter Greens Workshop sponsored by Bogie Lake Greenhouse

1-3pm David Mann, Poet. Book signing and "The Ties That Bind" poetry reading

3-5pm Heiner Hertling, (see Friday information)

Sunday, November 23 (10 AM - 5 PM)

11am-1pm Live music with Tim Twiss of Milford Music

1-2pm Winter Greens Workshop sponsored by Bogie Lake Greenhouse

1-3pm Ken Graning, Painter, demonstration and select merchandise

1-3pm Partly Brothers Acoustic folk musicians, performing music from their CD "From the Start."

3-5pm Michele Roger, book & CD signing by author & musician "Winter Solstice and the 1,000 Pancakes." Michele will also be showcasing her Harp students.

Empty Bowls: Community Sharing Benefit

Nov. 21, 2008 - 5:30-7:30 PM

"Empty Bowls" Fundraiser at the Arts & Greens Holiday Market at Bogie Lake Greenhouses. Join us for a Soup Supper and take home an original hand crafted bowl. $10 donation supplies your Empty Bowl, soup of choice, bread, and dessert. All proceeds support local Community Sharing Outreach Projects. Additional bowls without soup - $5.00, available all weekend during Arts & Greens at Bogie Lake Greenhouses and during Saturday evening's North Oakland County Storytellers Tellabration! performance, while supplies last. A special thank you to the Huron Valley Schools art teachers and students for creating the bowls:Denise Forrest - Country Oaks, Cecilia Gollan - Oak Valley Middle School, Tara Johnson - Muir Middle School, Judy Levitt - Brooks Elementary, and Abby Powers- Milford HS. Also participating will be Muir Middle School Leadership Class students.A grateful acknowledgment to the Restaurants Donating Soup:Duke's of Highland - Chicken noodle Milford House Bar & Grill - Minestrone Gravity - Wild mushroom St. Georges Café -French onion with croutons and support from: Main Street Art, Milford

Tellabration! A Time for Stories - Storytelling Festival
The North Oakland County Storytellers are united in the love of story and the belief in a story's power to connect us with one another. Come and join us as they tell their stories at the 4th Annual Tellabration! "A Time for Stories" Storytelling Festival, a ticketed event. Meet the artists and share the stories at this year's 1-ticket, 2-day, 3-location event.Tellebration! features member tellers of the North Oakland County Storytellers, including: Karen Czarnik, Pam Dawson,Carolyn Graves, Ron Hinman Lois Sprengnether Keel, Bob Reay, and Michael "Curley" Spaulding. Schedule: Opening night at Arts & Greens, Friday Nov. 21, 2008, 7:00-8:30 PM; continues Saturday morning 10 am at the Milford Library, and concludes at 7 pm in the Milford Presbyterian Church. Storytelling tickets include special options to win prizes from the Stop and Shop Raffle. By visiting local merchants between the Storytelling events, ticket holders will receive additional chances to win prizes from the Stop and Shop Raffle.
Tickets are $15. (Members/Seniors $12, children under 12 free.)
We'll see you there for a weekend of art, music, stories, soup, and community celebration!

Oakland Press Write-up:

http://www.theoaklandpress.com/articles/2008/11/18/news/local_news/mj2402431.txt

Huron Valley Council for the ArtsHVCA

Map and address to Bogie Lake Greenhouse:

http://www.mapquest.com/maps?name=Bogie+Lake+Greenhouses+Inc&city=White+Lake&state=MI&address=1525+Bogie+Lake+Rd&zipcode=48383&country=US&latitude=42.627175&longitude=-83.518971&geocode=ADDRESS&id=6449407

EBSQ Juried Artists Announced

EBSQ is a creative space that provides art marketing tools and serves as a hub for the self rep and indie artist community. Join our artists, photographers, and crafters here at the place to see and be seen since 2000.

New EBSQ Juried Artists Announced
02Nov08
We just completed our fall jury session, and we’re happy to announce the following artists made it past our panel of 12 jurors with a 2/3 majority vote or better:
Eclectic Elements by sam
Melinda Dalke
Michele Lynch
Kerry Nelson
Rebecca Ronesi
Michelle Oravitz
Frankie Paquin
Joseph Callahan
Melissa Tobia
Karen Winters
J.Michael McCracken
Donna Pellegata
Pat Burns
Alma Lee
Peggy Hayes
Pam Tanzey

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my illustrated children's book, prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Mural Sucess!!!

Top row from left: Frances Johnson, Jay Key, Olivia Pas, Lori Pas, Gerry Pas, Dan Persinger Bottom Row from left: Ken Sigler, Donna Pellegata, Kathy Fish, Linda Onderko

Many more artists participated in the mural than shown here!

Volunteers create mural for cancer patients
By Aileen Wingblad • STAFF WRITER • October 2, 2008

A touch of the outdoors has been brought inside DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital.
What was once a stark, drab 30-foot walkway to radiation therapy at Huron Valley-Sinai's Charach Cancer Treatment Center is now a bright and colorful four-season mural of the orchard that surrounds the hospital.
A group of local artists recently put the finishing touches on the mural, which depicts a display of apple trees - along with a few cheerful critters - in scenes of fall, winter, spring and summer.
"We were talking to some of the nurses there who said they really wanted a mural," said Leslie Watson, owner of Main Street Art in downtown Milford, who was instrumental in getting the project going. "I told them I'd get them their mural - and then I had to figure out a way to do it."
Yet it didn't take long for Watson to make it happen. She contacted artist Donna Pellegata of the Huron Valley Council for the Arts, who Watson said "jumped right on board" and in turn made arrangements for friend and fellow artist Linda Onderko to get the volunteer project underway - with the help of eight other local artists.
Onderko and artist Dan Persinger sketched out the scenes, and then were joined by the other artists who spent the last two months painting the mural.
So how did so many artists - each with their own creative ideas - manage to work together on one project?
Onderko admits it was tough, at first, for her to share control of the project. "It took awhile, because I am used to working solo," she grinned. "But then I just let people do what they wanted.
"And I like it," Onderko said. "It does reflect a lot of different artists' styles."
Robin Witte, public relations and marketing representative at DMC Huron Valley-Sinai, said the mural makes the hallway seem "like you are walking into a different world." Patients, as well as the hospital staff, agree the artwork is a welcome addition, she said."(The hallway) used to look boring, kind of scary, sterile. Now, this brightens it up," she said. "And we all really enjoyed watching the mural grow. It was fun - and some of the staff used to come in and play their own version of 'Where's Waldo,' which was more like 'What's new?' They'd try to figure out what was different or added since the last time they looked at the mural."
Cathy Grant, administrative director of cancer services at DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, is pleased with the mural, as well.
"This project was born out of suggestions from our staff and patients. Watching the mural grow and develop over the past few months has truly been an enjoyable experience," Grant said. "It has brought a smile to everyone who has seen it and been involved with it. And most importantly, our patients love it."
Persinger said working on the project "was a riot."
"It was a lot of fun," he said. "I never did a mural before - I'm a landscape painter - and I have learned a lot from Linda. She's a master."
Onderko said she's been asked to consider painting a faux window in the cancer center's infusion area. She hopes to get started on that soon. "It will give patients something interesting to gaze at during treatment," she said.
Watson added that she's glad she played a role in the project, and said the mural is evidence of the caring nature and creativity that runs throughout the Huron Valley.
"I think it's a testament to the artists and the people in this community who donated their time and talents for what so many people can enjoy," Watson said. "I planted the seed - and trees grew all around it."
awingblad@gannett.com (248) 685-1507 ext. 261

Note from Donna: A HUGE Thanks to Linda Onderko, she was truly the driving force behind this mural!!!!! If it wasn't for her it would not been finished! This project is credited to the artists and members of the Village Fine Arts Association in Milford MI. The article ran in the Milford Times.

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Goodbye Summer...

Moving right into cooler weather, this little caramel apple can't decide whether it's time to keep her sunglasses at the ready for the bright sun of summer or don her favorite pair of overalls for walking through the corn mazes of fall. Maybe she'll just venture out on a warm afternoon with mom and dad, to the nearest Cider Mill and enjoy the best of both worlds. As a matter if fact...what are WE waiting for...I think we should do the same! Just goes to show you, EVERY season has something great to offer. Happy Falling!!!

http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

How it's hanging HERE...

ok...I'm a little late with this but for those of you that haven't seen it, here it is...

<---My best friend's boyfriend!

Gannett grant pays for new art hanging system at Highland gallery
By Aileen Wingblad • STAFF WRITER • September 4, 2008

How's it hanging?

Just great, according to members of the Huron Valley Council for the Arts.
Thanks to the Gannett Foundation, the HVCA recently received a $2,120 grant for a system to hang paintings in the gallery. The system incorporates tracking and steel cables to secure paintings on the walls without damaging the plaster. The tracks are hidden by molding.
Protecting the plaster walls of the gallery was especially important since the HVCA gallery is in a historic building, explained Sybil Phelps, HVCA member.
"While we are honored to have this beautiful building, it poses some unique challenges. It has plaster walls, so we can't use screws or nails. We needed a system that is acceptable to artists as well as the historical society," she said. "This system provides us with a modern and efficient method to exhibit artwork while maintaining the historical integrity of our shared gallery space."
The system also has a safety feature that locks the paintings on to the cables, preventing theft. Phelps said that there were no concerns about people taking paintings in the past, but it's nice to now have the security option.
"We weren't worried about 'snatch and grab,' but we just wanted to be careful," she said.
HVCA member Dan Persinger installed the system last week.
The old system was difficult and time-consuming to work with, Phelps added. "We were fortunate no paintings ever fell down," she said.
Wendy Willihnganz, HVCA executive director, said the new system is "one that's going to hold up. And it's something that will really show off the pictures," she said. "We are so grateful to Gannett."
HVCA members Andrea Armstrong and Julie Millies applied for the Gannett Corporation Grant.
The Gannett Foundation is sponsored by the Gannett Company, Inc., which gives grants to organizations in communities where Gannett owns a newspaper or TV station.
Locally, Gannett owns the Milford Times.
Contact Aileen Wingblad at (248) 685-1507 ext. 261 or at awingblad@gannett.com.

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

The Harp Mouse Arriveth!!!!!

THE COVER ~ It's been a whole month and we've all been so patient, but rest assured please, I have not been complacent. I've kept busy with showings, and portraits and paintings...and listing on eBay and Etsy for ratings. The book is here now, so let's get excited...you can buy one from me...I'll be happy to sign it. Take a look at below to see a few pages, just a tiny run through, to show you some stages...

Page 3 ~ The colors you'll see on these pages are brilliant.

Page 7 ~ the story will peak your child's curiosity and yours too!

Page 11 ~ a wonderful way to learn about the harp and the adventures of this sweet little mouse!

Contact me to order at smelykat4@aol.com or you can visit my etsy store at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698 and make your purchase there.

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

While we're waiting...Boo Boo Magoo

So I just saw the final, FINAL proofs for the new book and they are spectacular! Possibly another week and a half and I'll have real finger prints all over it. I won't say another word about it until then (yeah right), in the mean time take a peek at the newest portrait commission I've been working on. I love his adorable little kissy face! Boo Boo Magoo is not his real name of course, that is kept private to protect his innocence. Next finished project will be whatever hits the finish line first...next portrait...Harp Mouse Book http://www.heartandharp.net/book.html ...I just know your waiting with baited breath. What IS baited breath anyway?

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698

Publishing Pitfall Postpones Printing

OK...there's been a little hold up on the book http://www.heartandharp.net/book.html. It looks like I won't have it in time for Milford Memories after all, due to a small printing malfunction... poop...but that's ok 'cause I'll have it very soon and most definitely in time for the Christmas season! I'll at least have portrait commissions and prints available for purchase inside the booth! And there will still be plenty of fun to be had at Milford Memories, http://www.milfordmemories.com/1/mm/index.asp , by you just showing up! So drop by...say hello on August 8th, 9th or 10th, and let's have us some summertime fun! I'll be in booth 106/107, The Village Fine Arts Association booth, with about a dozen or so other fellow artist/friends/members. So the shopping will be phenomenal, lots of goodies to choose from under one clever canopy! Bring the kiddies and for a small donation, get their little faces painted by our flock of facial feature festooners. Those lines are usually wrapped around the block! A very popular activity indeed!

You can see most of my art in MY GALLERIES at: http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_20424_profile_portfolio.htm or view my slide shows to the right. You can purchase my prints and original art or request commissions and at the same time have 10% of your purchase donated to animal charities here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5663698