tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24738723905975882402024-03-12T21:12:37.711-07:00Cherril Doty cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.comBlogger434125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-43504773683696292642024-03-09T14:38:00.000-08:002024-03-09T14:38:48.668-08:00SO BLUE<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifPY5RykogEIfn_sworLxbsBX9bdwBbsuU9d1XflYGB3HP5PEh-21tDAkUG34g5hv_r7E_BIiT9Wvwu-2eBuyu9b0LBa_juxAoxzqKlP8jd2SQ2D0l3hMiY-STHObKx8RLxPhdezBnH8oNBk9rJyWkkVEfokjlF6kKSRpeVdn1IaIKKFT9SwmDSDPYfOU/s3824/blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2847" data-original-width="3824" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifPY5RykogEIfn_sworLxbsBX9bdwBbsuU9d1XflYGB3HP5PEh-21tDAkUG34g5hv_r7E_BIiT9Wvwu-2eBuyu9b0LBa_juxAoxzqKlP8jd2SQ2D0l3hMiY-STHObKx8RLxPhdezBnH8oNBk9rJyWkkVEfokjlF6kKSRpeVdn1IaIKKFT9SwmDSDPYfOU/w400-h297/blue.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana;">So not feeling blue as in down and depressed, but nevertheless this piece IS so blue.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Once monthly workshops continue with one tomorrow, March 10th. With a full house, I am looking forward to see what will come from the creative time together.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We have been starting off with making at least one piece using prompts. This month the prompts will be the color blue, a number, text, stripes, and one circle. I had some time to create while watching the State of the Union speech so went ahead and made mine ahead of time. Actually, this will give me more time to spend with students so not a bad idea.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">These workshops really fill my soul and I cannot imagine not doing them. Wonderful friendships have arisen from these times together and some folks return many times. It is a great way to gather together....I think. And the words "far beyond the ordinary lies the unforgettable" is oh, so apt.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-66764594980586672422024-02-20T15:03:00.000-08:002024-02-20T15:03:46.312-08:00SOMETIMES A STORY WILL DO...a glimpse into a long ago time<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuu2037nJwQxrWs0VViQ9jprI_L_uI8sAJkCFcl4FMS3wkzB1gJvtW4ANYzeohU0PZbkWE5PlYVchgX8KNf5wqETqG3vuPAksX-7MxR5Fgi2FOnYuDfHBpx3O6Ow5T2AFZzcBh3H4yzTncKIWgiUDjg0fRe8TIJsluoF5de_lwBqeA0VwVAJTQQU84y5A/s2685/IMG_2246.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2685" data-original-width="2379" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuu2037nJwQxrWs0VViQ9jprI_L_uI8sAJkCFcl4FMS3wkzB1gJvtW4ANYzeohU0PZbkWE5PlYVchgX8KNf5wqETqG3vuPAksX-7MxR5Fgi2FOnYuDfHBpx3O6Ow5T2AFZzcBh3H4yzTncKIWgiUDjg0fRe8TIJsluoF5de_lwBqeA0VwVAJTQQU84y5A/s320/IMG_2246.JPG" width="284" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">TEA AND EMPATHY:</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Fork on the left. Knife and spoon on the right. Plate. Cup and saucer for tea. As I set the table for three, I glance through the sliding glass doors past the kitchen table to the patio. The lengthening shadows stretch through the October light under the canopy of the California Pepper's broad branches. As I watch the dark come, a lone sparrow, startled by something unseen, flits up to land on the brick wall before flying off into the evening sky.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">"Dearie? Dinner is ready." My grandmother's voice pulls me back to the room as she calls out to my grandfather. I see him through the kitchen door as he pushes himself up on the arms of his chair and moves to turn off the t.v. His body bent slightly still, highball in hand, he turns our direction. Brown slippers make a scuffing sound on the terra cotta floor as he shuffles into the kitchen and sits at his place at the table.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">"Would you get the salt and pepper please, dear?" my grandmother asks me, She is holding the china teapot, setting it down just as she sets her own aproned girth. I sit, too, placing the plain glass shakers in the center of the yellow tablecloth. Without a word, my grandfather reaches for the pork chops first. It is the signal to begin and I spoon into the green beans. The only sounds now that the t.v. is off are those of the meal and the lonesome sound of a whistle as a train works its way up through the canyon below. In silent ritual, my grandmother pours tea for the three of us.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Clink. Clink. Clink. It begins with the three short taps of his silver spoon ob the rim of his teacup. My shoulders tighten.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I wait, not daring to glance his way. It is coming. In my mind I can see his thin, veined hand--almost dainty in its gentle grasp of the teaspoon--hovering over the yellow roses blooming in repose on the china cup. The deep dark honey color of the tea swirls in the cup as he dips his spoon in stirs before sounding the warning clinks again. The moment stretches. Get it over with. Be done. Aw, c'mon. My mind moves over words as my breath holds at attention. C'mon. I know you're going to. I can almost see the gleeful look in you pale blue watery eyes. I pretend not to notice, take a bit of potato onto my fork. Lift the bite--oozing with butter and flecked with black pepper--toward my mouth. Maybe he's not going to do it this time. Maybe it's just a tease. I just sneak a sidelong glance to my left to see...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">"Ouch!" The hot spoon on the back of my left hand as I lower my fork smarts for an instant and seems to push the escaping sound out like steam. I grit my teeth as I hear his low chuckle.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">"Now, Dearie...," my grandmother's gentle voice chides. Nothing more is said by either of them. We all continue eating silently.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My grandfather, a cold, taciturn man, has played this small trick on me all of my life. I don't think he'll ever stop. Does my grandmother think he will, really> After a bit she asks, with a soft, warm smile on her face, "Don't you both think you're too old for that?" She doesn't seem to expect an answer.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">He never looks up, just goes on with his slow, careful bites, chewing and chewing, tools poised and ready for the next bite. His eyes are innocent--almost--twinkling with mischievous light behind wire-rimmed glasses. It is as if the spoon is some kind of jumper cable joining us, sparking some small communication--a link that does not otherwise exist. The small teasing meanness a way to connect, to say I love you without any words. I know this somehow. I, too, can play this game.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Clink. Clink. Clink. He continues to stir, taunting. Outside, the encroaching darkness signals the ending of yet another day. Without looking at either one of them, I set down my fork, leaving the potato I was eating for now. Picking up my own spoon, I stir my tea slowly with my left hand, clinking the spoon on the edge as he does. I am fully enrolled in the game now...a small glow of warmth rests inside my chest. Does he think I wouldn't dare? In fact, would I?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Every movement is slowed to a snail's pace. Smooth and slow. No jerk at all. Stirring....stirring...I can sense their held breath as they watch, wondering. I have their attention. I can feel their eyes. The corners of my mouth itch to turn up. I control them. And I continue to stir, letting my teaspoon just brush against the sides of the cup...just enough....Clink. Clink. Clink.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Then, setting down my spoon on the saucer, I pick up the cup and slowly sip at the hot, sweet liquid within. I smile with my eyes over the rim of my cup, set it down on the saucer without the slightest sound, pick up the spoon, stir again, and...Clink. Clink. Clink.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-64053969530819121432024-01-24T17:57:00.000-08:002024-01-24T17:57:40.934-08:00"WHAT HAPPENED TO CHERRIL'S BLOG?" NO ONE EVER ASKED...<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb1JImvwnYt805docGseBjo_IZtztoxQkoZwN99g66OKyiZlSxySZ5Zoj_gZm3s54GbCdcAkSJEFyg5IIk3Xdv08aShodqQU57MCLB187mKFLUQj9aM5BbySWVjyEReFCOIFqJsKuTsjT9gVxzoiJrVeC4m2Ety7bN8PmfyupYKrHl12r1SrxRgvP0J4w/s4032/IMG_1930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb1JImvwnYt805docGseBjo_IZtztoxQkoZwN99g66OKyiZlSxySZ5Zoj_gZm3s54GbCdcAkSJEFyg5IIk3Xdv08aShodqQU57MCLB187mKFLUQj9aM5BbySWVjyEReFCOIFqJsKuTsjT9gVxzoiJrVeC4m2Ety7bN8PmfyupYKrHl12r1SrxRgvP0J4w/s320/IMG_1930.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">So what did happen to the blog? Ah, the list is long, but bottom line is life just got in my way. Somehow, starting with the new piece in progress shown here got me started again. In the meantime, I finally have gotten homeowner's insurance just under the wire before cancellation of old policy. That was the biggest challenge for the past few months. It feels like quite an accomplishment. Whew!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Art Festival was fun and a great success all around I think. It's always a chance to see old friends and make new ones.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">The 2023 Round Robin Journal came to an end and we all gathered to share images and stories. The 2024 journals got started recently and I look forward to another year of creative opportunity.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Hopefully, now that I have started again I will be able to keep this up. Blogs seem to have become pretty passe' but there is still something to be said about the practice. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Meanwhile, I look forward to a full year of monthly workshops, summer and winter shows, and of course the creative energy that goes into it all.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">'Til next time.....</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-28812453358713974752023-11-07T12:17:00.004-08:002023-11-07T12:17:36.282-08:00THE MUSE, MARY AND ME<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9d4Fzu7dE10BFP624T33lLSkdKy3oZYsQ0YL6G7BcfQF9ykgptHKbLpc8CIupGAkDuu7wjZMGm90Yt5247qB_cLUCfJ9CZqfFeh19Tfu-1o8LFTjEOWd02MllbkrdnkcAbo2lpkyzo4YJf7dsM2afvay6BH-edF2P7-Lnr5qBi0n7-Bm-XNkvUYDstp0/s2849/IMG_1665.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2849" data-original-width="2411" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9d4Fzu7dE10BFP624T33lLSkdKy3oZYsQ0YL6G7BcfQF9ykgptHKbLpc8CIupGAkDuu7wjZMGm90Yt5247qB_cLUCfJ9CZqfFeh19Tfu-1o8LFTjEOWd02MllbkrdnkcAbo2lpkyzo4YJf7dsM2afvay6BH-edF2P7-Lnr5qBi0n7-Bm-XNkvUYDstp0/s320/IMG_1665.jpg" width="271" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana;">The feet and eyes are for me the most difficult to get right. So it may take me just a bit longer to get this final piece ready for Sawdust Art Festival's Winter Fantasy showing.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Meanwhile, I will continue to look for inspiration and solace in my muse and poet Mary Oliver.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Crisp mornings of sunshine or fog filled with birdsong...aren't we fortunate? I ponder the question of what it might be like not to be able to have these things. What must that mean to someone's life/</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">And this brings me to poet Mary Oliver and the questions she poses in her poem <i>Gratitude:</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>What did you notice?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>What did you hear?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>What did you admire?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>What astonished you?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>What would you like to see again?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>What was most tender?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>What was most wonderful?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>What did you think was happening?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">i wonder how answering these questions, no matter our circumstances, might be likely to bring us to a state of gratitude. So take a deep breath. Listen to the birds, Feel the sun on your shoulders. Enjoy the soft caress of a breeze. Smile at a stranger in passing. Ask yourself these questions from the poem and see if there is even a slight shift in your thinking. Hopefully, you will be brought to gratitude.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Let me know.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-48677263429768714292023-10-17T14:37:00.000-07:002023-10-17T14:37:07.290-07:00IF THIS IS OCTOBER....<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6H28FlnwlwCiivIeIsowPzU44g1EFj7Gqxe7wJcFARby_dUQtBk2vXa1r5mXldn2hwivVOTxBFAboERAyhE5ExqWaWuGpb-cpRO1q3rlVpIPakrAVJRsdFBTVqJZ4L_DK5JGeckP8aZnYIztVprjbRLPqIsswxesypTGolivpS4XbbkgLbE9x6GaAOjI/s639/The-Most-Popular-Halloween-Candies-of-2023-FT-2-BLOG1023-992ea1b9611c46d097d2ae3261cfe488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="639" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6H28FlnwlwCiivIeIsowPzU44g1EFj7Gqxe7wJcFARby_dUQtBk2vXa1r5mXldn2hwivVOTxBFAboERAyhE5ExqWaWuGpb-cpRO1q3rlVpIPakrAVJRsdFBTVqJZ4L_DK5JGeckP8aZnYIztVprjbRLPqIsswxesypTGolivpS4XbbkgLbE9x6GaAOjI/s320/The-Most-Popular-Halloween-Candies-of-2023-FT-2-BLOG1023-992ea1b9611c46d097d2ae3261cfe488.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I think I will definitely need at least one of these sugar treats as the month unwinds (or is it winds up?)</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">As with most months this one brings both joys and challenges. It's the challenges that daunt me on occasion and I am tempted to drown myself in sugar treats (I AM holding back though...so far)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">So on a much lighter note...what is YOUR favorite candy? Or do you turn to something else when the going gets a little tough?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I'm trying art exploration since it usually works, but at some point I am going to have to face the challenges head on and that may call for some sweets 😍 I'll try to keep you posted on the progress. In the meantime, I am creating new pieces for the upcoming Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Art Festival.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-62000803119177423472023-09-10T14:30:00.001-07:002023-09-10T14:30:26.602-07:00RANDOM THOUGHTS ON A RAINY SEPTEMBER MORNING<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX7OBLDHsuGD4QR9pjLd9-wKGPV3i5JvtQcbktIv77ViMYpk9N58GfTT7Tv7BdGutMRJ8PLTcuPUKzrSGy5WtwdkY7BKzKkB5Xv-wI0YyjzYKcamzqsSt7mFzZ9n3x2YeW5Ufw24AA8lPVaM35QRz-aO9YjA-4NH_53X4_eZVwXS_CsQ7k61_VRWDFu68/s3780/5E022F61-675B-42D1-A68E-77A2F77E573C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX7OBLDHsuGD4QR9pjLd9-wKGPV3i5JvtQcbktIv77ViMYpk9N58GfTT7Tv7BdGutMRJ8PLTcuPUKzrSGy5WtwdkY7BKzKkB5Xv-wI0YyjzYKcamzqsSt7mFzZ9n3x2YeW5Ufw24AA8lPVaM35QRz-aO9YjA-4NH_53X4_eZVwXS_CsQ7k61_VRWDFu68/s320/5E022F61-675B-42D1-A68E-77A2F77E573C.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">The rain on the roof this morning surprised me into alertness. What a lovely, soft, gentle patter it was. The humidity factor seemed to increase, but the temperature had not yet reached the point where there was a need to throw off covers. So I snuggled deeper and let my mind wander.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">The summer had been a busy one, filled with creating new art and meeting new folks at the Sawdust Art Festival, scheduling and working with the Sawdust Art Enrichment Fund to further fulfill artist John Eagle's vision of providing art for underprivileged while helping to support our local artists. I was tired. This morning with its soft rain was a blessing. I could wait a bit to start the day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">And so my mind meandered as I drifted in and out, imagining new creations and directions that might take me, thoughts of taking care of the little things that tend to slip through the cracks during the summer months, plotting new trails to traverse, and so much more......</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">What does a rainy morning conjure for you?</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-50843737295712909752023-08-02T17:48:00.005-07:002023-08-02T17:48:59.221-07:00CROWS, CROWS AND MORE CROWS....<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg391L6QS-AYAr_gulmJCSrPYXr3QMWoO04l8hvpp_mzU1gKTf44ZTz3vIG8GLFLnaKhDVeduJfntgFyA7U0DhtocAZ8naEif9JBCBkyCWapJLhYnaN-kgXs_lt3SZG4a6n_LLvFdAJ4S1WCROZ5MAKfEW-6jQF0UMMO0e5fyCPzFMrsOmbcDJC-CYVBDo/s2795/IMG_1168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2795" data-original-width="2167" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg391L6QS-AYAr_gulmJCSrPYXr3QMWoO04l8hvpp_mzU1gKTf44ZTz3vIG8GLFLnaKhDVeduJfntgFyA7U0DhtocAZ8naEif9JBCBkyCWapJLhYnaN-kgXs_lt3SZG4a6n_LLvFdAJ4S1WCROZ5MAKfEW-6jQF0UMMO0e5fyCPzFMrsOmbcDJC-CYVBDo/s320/IMG_1168.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><p>Who knew? The summer seems all about crows in my neck of the Sawdust Art Festival. They fly off the shelves almost faster than I can put them there. </p></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I wonder if they are off in search of shiny things to add to their stash or gift to some person they have befriended.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Maybe I will never know.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-11668747069639991872023-06-27T10:47:00.005-07:002023-06-27T10:49:39.193-07:00YOU KNOW IT'S SUMMER WHEN...<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXC6prLvwrBL6k-Sm20ulmnHdOrQ4bvugyiYrmMXKirmaZhI58ABkIMr_rJZyqB9gYMxu05uGFXOhUOH1QxPhXDfpSOiqIUcYwi79hkR1vTL-5uPfgb-K1Rwm2DsPOjPG_OKIToKwpoRRdRApM8hJ4hvsEftNTdBc_ulTC0G5a9cEaMZUGb9k69SabGLo/s3264/IMG_1177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXC6prLvwrBL6k-Sm20ulmnHdOrQ4bvugyiYrmMXKirmaZhI58ABkIMr_rJZyqB9gYMxu05uGFXOhUOH1QxPhXDfpSOiqIUcYwi79hkR1vTL-5uPfgb-K1Rwm2DsPOjPG_OKIToKwpoRRdRApM8hJ4hvsEftNTdBc_ulTC0G5a9cEaMZUGb9k69SabGLo/s320/IMG_1177.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">...the festival season in Laguna </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Beach begins. And this is the week! Preview nights for Sawdust Art Festival, Art-A-Fair and the Pageant of the Masters make for a busy week.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">Planning has taken place often for months as readiness varies among individuals. I found myself oddly blessed to be house-bound with Covid, which gave me many hours of art play in March/April that I might not otherwise have had. I wasn't sick...just kept getting positive tests so, with nothing better to do I played and played. And of course my crow friends showed up often in that play.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">If you're around be sure to come see me at the Sawdust at Gallery Wall 11. </span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-35741762408271637502023-05-27T14:27:00.000-07:002023-05-27T14:27:06.802-07:00WHY IS IT ALWAYS SUCH A SURPRISE?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdylgYdRQIOi5-1tEsdOp8JmYkrHQNctC5cI0jXsLisLuncBiP0QpkAqSan-IR47csi3Wr-57ZT71DHlz2rgEFxeBpDwfnPKSY7B5NMT4JgPi6SiXPoAN6J1CcmP1ysP0-6_A-2EDhREs3SxqDtOT7MH92SBqOGFQrCeDkVo-iBH51VYmARmcmSh5k/s3264/IMG_1054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdylgYdRQIOi5-1tEsdOp8JmYkrHQNctC5cI0jXsLisLuncBiP0QpkAqSan-IR47csi3Wr-57ZT71DHlz2rgEFxeBpDwfnPKSY7B5NMT4JgPi6SiXPoAN6J1CcmP1ysP0-6_A-2EDhREs3SxqDtOT7MH92SBqOGFQrCeDkVo-iBH51VYmARmcmSh5k/s320/IMG_1054.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Hundreds of cards printed, assembled and packaged. Many prints matted, packaged and priced. Originals framed and priced. A booth or Gallery Wall to clean, paint, repair, and get ready in myriad ways to show all of this. Getting ready for any showing of art, let alone a 66 day summer festival is always a surprising amount of things on a long and ever longer to-do list of things needed before one can even begin to think "ready." And I have probably omitted so much, this being only what a mixed media artist might have on the list. Think of the jewelers, the sculptors, the photographers, fabric artists and others, many of whom may have to rely on the timing of printers and such. Just writing this wears me out. But in the end it is always done on time and so very worth it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">So if you are reading this, come to the summer Sawdust Art Festival in beautiful Laguna Beach and see what everyone has created and how each has mastered the long to-do list.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">June 30-September 3</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">www.sawdustartfestival.org </span></div><br />cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-24532798027024474982023-05-11T13:38:00.008-07:002023-05-11T13:40:47.698-07:00AN APPRECIATION<p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIsQx124dL3uA8QCSYiB731X3l9-2R_h3884x_QlXna_HktIGo_Uild7Hm51UDAoJJnk1tAg-HOHVmtfb50gLt5NFkm0eh_rSQRe7w9C25YtRpnyBmdBu3_my_IdsNaO4ddk9VAGB7h2QPa9BfO88uzl4dJXlwjaijL5SJEqhoDLZqHQSTiyhvjk9/s2955/7FEEAFDE-28BC-42A3-AF66-380981E952E8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2955" data-original-width="2364" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIsQx124dL3uA8QCSYiB731X3l9-2R_h3884x_QlXna_HktIGo_Uild7Hm51UDAoJJnk1tAg-HOHVmtfb50gLt5NFkm0eh_rSQRe7w9C25YtRpnyBmdBu3_my_IdsNaO4ddk9VAGB7h2QPa9BfO88uzl4dJXlwjaijL5SJEqhoDLZqHQSTiyhvjk9/s320/7FEEAFDE-28BC-42A3-AF66-380981E952E8.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some art from 5/7 workshop</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Lots going on as spring sets in and summer approaches way too fast. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Even while creating new pieces for the summer festival season I took time to check the calendar and have set dates for workshops through the end of the year. These workshops so feed my own soul that they just have to happen 💓</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">It does not escape me that I am super fortunate to have regular students who are wonderful and super gracious with new students. There are so many instances in life when the "regulars" are perhaps act a bit proprietary when newbies show up. The welcoming attitude of our regulars is a blessing indeed.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-60926747611926045072023-04-27T13:28:00.001-07:002023-04-27T13:28:38.663-07:00FINDING TIME<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhndQh2oREvaA0WkVRKZtQkLF8h1Lo4t5LJ6_0BVvyFEgvy5ZBoST87k3mf4fMk_0oHNen1bcWbhT1apGEe-pNyjOqx-leqLqLgzxLLxrFNo2lDjEQLHg5MK5YY2GmfHQX2yrz9hk-m-456an8NvN0N_UrkTDCk7iPffsenBlZHEYbw5KSnJOxawRJz/s2846/IMG_0954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2132" data-original-width="2846" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhndQh2oREvaA0WkVRKZtQkLF8h1Lo4t5LJ6_0BVvyFEgvy5ZBoST87k3mf4fMk_0oHNen1bcWbhT1apGEe-pNyjOqx-leqLqLgzxLLxrFNo2lDjEQLHg5MK5YY2GmfHQX2yrz9hk-m-456an8NvN0N_UrkTDCk7iPffsenBlZHEYbw5KSnJOxawRJz/s320/IMG_0954.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana;">With all that the spring months bring--art inventory, new art, framing, designing space, teaching,etc--there still needs to be time to create something to include in each month's round robin journal. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For April I had some ideas all drawn out that included bird drawings.... As can be seen here that is not what ultimately showed up (no surprise really...this is often what transpires.)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Nothing is glued down and the words aren't here yet, but, heck, it's not due til next week. I will manage to get it done....and the inventory and the artwork and and and.........</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-24793836534429444522023-03-21T14:05:00.001-07:002023-03-21T14:05:11.456-07:00SOMETIMES SERENDIPITY...<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoUltneqP9pql4PPJb3dYo8y3WhuSrS7FJEMYtaxkG4JHa-uKtw-yt8305tPS1x2eYfuJxy0q5yEMBa_lE1Q4nVhTteZSI1tySE30a3jTPX5vi7V7FI5XTVPdc4TN7Tc4pbBcKyptbrEghqcF4OoOHnVb3g_oqXq-R_9my6wQgUXAtpCyvAkwiQm4Q/s3103/IMG_0871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3103" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoUltneqP9pql4PPJb3dYo8y3WhuSrS7FJEMYtaxkG4JHa-uKtw-yt8305tPS1x2eYfuJxy0q5yEMBa_lE1Q4nVhTteZSI1tySE30a3jTPX5vi7V7FI5XTVPdc4TN7Tc4pbBcKyptbrEghqcF4OoOHnVb3g_oqXq-R_9my6wQgUXAtpCyvAkwiQm4Q/s320/IMG_0871.jpg" width="252" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">So much fun at this past weekend's mixed media workshop. Five hours of creative energy, laughter, good food, shared stories and more. These workshops sure do feed my soul. Guess I'll have to just keep doing them.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">The pieces pictured here are not both from the workshop. I was digging around in a box of 'fodder' and discovered the piece shown on the bottom that I had done about four years ago. I had completely forgotten about the process to do this, but as we played and explored on Sunday the techniques came back bit by bit. I was able to pull off the one shown at top and a couple of others. Think I'll have to keep playing and exploring the ways to go with this as it's a whole lot of fun.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-17276238714203941972023-03-09T13:16:00.001-08:002023-03-09T13:16:20.349-08:00MY, OH MY, WHAT A WONDERFUL DAY...<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlf1Bzdsh0mucBHqDewH7eJqK8wcSVYllwTBNU6QSScqH7Zp9-FeFIcxrVtROo4yHrkfM67XBjmfHyNbcbNUsZMZv2EmGAExMwIiGirf6iCVcTWSK_nAXQhX3jF49ynYyxH0dqZxIWEdOHrPJ8aC5dbjqSA8u0ImGSh8wpZXDUeEJ7U9M-BOno6GU/s177/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="177" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlf1Bzdsh0mucBHqDewH7eJqK8wcSVYllwTBNU6QSScqH7Zp9-FeFIcxrVtROo4yHrkfM67XBjmfHyNbcbNUsZMZv2EmGAExMwIiGirf6iCVcTWSK_nAXQhX3jF49ynYyxH0dqZxIWEdOHrPJ8aC5dbjqSA8u0ImGSh8wpZXDUeEJ7U9M-BOno6GU/s1600/download.jpg" width="177" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPP0lpqSO3r-a1oU5udVzqoHsDT1VqHEj4pbgBW45a0ltSUIVRyJ7xIH_cgHN1koExhuVLPocUJPrjWxnyrOekAXhU6vkAM0Ak5zS-pA0Vc7nVwF-7HUkhSorMvDEpXrO_aWi8ikqLx3k6oJJw8Ox2a3Yi4nXy6H6yHpB15WvoYZA7L--_tc7SbD-/s177/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"> "Mr. Bluebird's on my shoulder..."</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The song has always brought a smile to my face and joy to my heart, lightening my step on what could be a challenging day as well as lifting me higher on good days. So to find that it is getting such a bad rep from its association with the film "Song of the South" makes me sad.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Zip-a-dee-doo-dah was my first "favorite song" at a very young age. I would listen to the record over and over and even today often find myself humming the tune. It feels kind of like having a BFF who is a bit less than wholesome and yet you love them just the same.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Please, world, don't throw this "baby out with the bath water." It just seems like this is carrying things a mile too far. I wish the "happiest place on earth" had chosen to see the joy in the song rather than its political downside of things.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Just sayin'!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-83747235747395916102023-02-28T17:45:00.003-08:002023-02-28T17:45:14.474-08:00LEMONS TO LEMONADE?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNDxaFpmhRyG9Ca5W2G6vPCdy6XCiCpvI6K7EK35eKvAHyI5XtUro7k2wyoWxHgO_XJUX8cA82V_P_qmDUMSNbJnF4ga2_HW3GQn9hn47UMHqwYMvJfeBdMbUt4LwR6buZRSy2iJnR-DbfGn-J4tk9OL0V9qTlf_3GnpWXxITHxGbdugBA3LXUvPD/s1800/0214F7F2-E2EB-4127-A461-F16E384D79D1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNDxaFpmhRyG9Ca5W2G6vPCdy6XCiCpvI6K7EK35eKvAHyI5XtUro7k2wyoWxHgO_XJUX8cA82V_P_qmDUMSNbJnF4ga2_HW3GQn9hn47UMHqwYMvJfeBdMbUt4LwR6buZRSy2iJnR-DbfGn-J4tk9OL0V9qTlf_3GnpWXxITHxGbdugBA3LXUvPD/s320/0214F7F2-E2EB-4127-A461-F16E384D79D1.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Something about this image calms my cluttered mind. It is tranquil in so many ways. The first of several vintage pieces I've been working on, I just keep returning to gaze on it for some reason.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Sure, the recent storms have been rattling my cage--high winds, heavy rain, and more keep me cooped up and restless. And yet....So many others have it so much worse. Who am I to complain? So I turn to focusing on some of what brings me joy...yes, creating. It never fails.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Color, texture, image....all of it softens the edges of the restlessness.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">What do you do when things are our of whack, when life seems to bring lemons?</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-72564118807982779882023-02-11T10:52:00.012-08:002023-02-11T10:56:26.307-08:00ROUND AND ROUND WE GO<p> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Ue7aiX5TZzd5Xw1ZtxUC5GhQ25AoBy-0f1llyqGmLa5LoZYccdjJfDWMt-OOzRLOBH_5oBGw8EW2JXtm3oWyvaUigAk5_WHhDrmgN5VviFvEzWW32709zIjiGG8utps8m9yWowHFTfD7RK5y2Vk3Ljh-_5bQ-_N3BpD8nyrAsQVxcnGWbJzmcNpl/s3264/IMG_0770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Ue7aiX5TZzd5Xw1ZtxUC5GhQ25AoBy-0f1llyqGmLa5LoZYccdjJfDWMt-OOzRLOBH_5oBGw8EW2JXtm3oWyvaUigAk5_WHhDrmgN5VviFvEzWW32709zIjiGG8utps8m9yWowHFTfD7RK5y2Vk3Ljh-_5bQ-_N3BpD8nyrAsQVxcnGWbJzmcNpl/s320/IMG_0770.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Have you ever taken part in a Round Robin Journal? If not, I highly recommend it. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Some years back a former student--Cindy-- invited me to join a group in which she was participating. What a treat! You start with creating a book using watercolor paper. You need half as many 8 x 11 sheets as there are participants. Fold each sheet in half, poke some holes in the fold, insert binding thread and off you go. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Using a variety of mixed media techniques each person creates cover art before sending on to the next person on the list. Once a month you get a journal to create and experiment in and at the end of the time you have a journal to keep with a variety of art techniques to enjoy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Sound like fun? Give it a try!</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-64226868894136248062023-01-17T15:24:00.003-08:002023-01-17T15:24:59.041-08:00WHAT A GOOD WORD TO SAVOR FOR THE YEAR OF THE RABBIT...LET'S HOP TO IT!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRs8E4JCDIyVK1fuPOYs5GmOxmwXumQQNe3GgCEf41Nx549Oqu8vyej8pyCioQaK86uyuho3_gA6aeGU9lH7lAGFsmrmZScSDt3bM2-ulEceAi1r_uuUZTrMVVt9vrhQoPt4bcggDYpVH7SHxqMkBPq0iv1g2zUwLppVwpnZ2UPNqbBF14RhZ9WtPF/s1059/img20221223_14384130%20(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1059" data-original-width="798" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRs8E4JCDIyVK1fuPOYs5GmOxmwXumQQNe3GgCEf41Nx549Oqu8vyej8pyCioQaK86uyuho3_gA6aeGU9lH7lAGFsmrmZScSDt3bM2-ulEceAi1r_uuUZTrMVVt9vrhQoPt4bcggDYpVH7SHxqMkBPq0iv1g2zUwLppVwpnZ2UPNqbBF14RhZ9WtPF/s320/img20221223_14384130%20(3).jpg" width="241" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">When I participated in the Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Art Festival the past two months I was a little handicapped for space to do my demonstration time. Luckily, I came across a fun way to fold and cut bird ornaments that I then offered to attendees and fellow artists as "Freebirds."</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Using strips of magazine pages and maps and whatever other papers struck my fancy I could walk about with scissors in my pocket and create these fun birds, which could be hung on a holiday tree or whatever else struck someone's fancy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">In cutting these creatures there was a bit of discard, which I simply dropped into a bag at my feet. When I took this bag home and dumped it I realized that I had an abundance of holiday trees. So....</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">A good start to the hop down the joy rode I'd say !!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">And as Corrie ten Boom has reminded us..."joy runs deeper than despair."</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-55692388637138607382022-12-15T18:07:00.005-08:002022-12-15T18:08:16.108-08:00TICK TOCK...<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rmpkhBjJ5f2Ojnk0YUzkh5wZaF4l55IcgLRmdI56iKZfBa1IgQD1xTwpQ6JRebfG6bFmLinoQybjAsW_qc7D_EGL2tUUsVIFv4Gf5CDYGS2lVvos8yNgTinasakOYhszNcp-FK_LSIUxzBrIIYnmSee0VNVRdZezXhW4xCZu1VVwM83usrAIKAlI/s640/Book%20tree.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="484" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rmpkhBjJ5f2Ojnk0YUzkh5wZaF4l55IcgLRmdI56iKZfBa1IgQD1xTwpQ6JRebfG6bFmLinoQybjAsW_qc7D_EGL2tUUsVIFv4Gf5CDYGS2lVvos8yNgTinasakOYhszNcp-FK_LSIUxzBrIIYnmSee0VNVRdZezXhW4xCZu1VVwM83usrAIKAlI/s320/Book%20tree.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana;">This book tree kinda serves two purposes here for me: a reminder to all of you that it is the holiday season and time to shop local artists is running out. The Sawdust Winter Fantasy runs 10 am to 7 pm through this Sunday, December 18th. So come enjoy Santa's Village and all the lovingly decorated trees and artist booths while listening to music and shopping handmade items for gift-giving.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">And...when that is all over I can get back to my love of reading for the next few months :)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-32615090699176822902022-12-06T11:36:00.000-08:002022-12-06T11:36:30.953-08:00HOLIDAY BUSY-NESS<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXdET_nuVgZuPrjZwb8eBY1xrshEnzFfMsfFaoRZg6BK4RlSjaD5NpMC_SbG3Yd19AsfrV2F75WlCvh6L2B6gDs3j8cq78rB4dlvBk8BDtqsK5n3NrMKazDjJwuBmXe6kOvSNjNiqj0huwijh-nK0ro7LecZF2FuKM2T7mwvNZSHLW_qWdcV3jZw-/s2872/IMG_0584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2872" data-original-width="2154" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXdET_nuVgZuPrjZwb8eBY1xrshEnzFfMsfFaoRZg6BK4RlSjaD5NpMC_SbG3Yd19AsfrV2F75WlCvh6L2B6gDs3j8cq78rB4dlvBk8BDtqsK5n3NrMKazDjJwuBmXe6kOvSNjNiqj0huwijh-nK0ro7LecZF2FuKM2T7mwvNZSHLW_qWdcV3jZw-/s320/IMG_0584.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I guess you would have to say it's holiday busy-ness for holiday business since I'm busily working to re-stock on cards at the Sawdust Art Festival's Winter Fantasy.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">While the snow at the Sawdust is artificial, it sure feels cold enough there as the sun goes down for the real thing. Definitely all should bring layers if planning to stay late.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">There is a lot of holiday cheer and so very many handmade gifts to buy for family and friends (and even for yourself.) Music. Santa. Good food. Good cheer...and, then, there's also that snow 😀 So take the time to head to Laguna to get into the spirit of things.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Happy Holidays!!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-20411423950770217562022-11-23T13:40:00.000-08:002022-11-23T13:40:19.975-08:00THANKFUL<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdaPsNqDOZe9PFA8J_IpHQKovm9UAnVw6RpqVPcFSBt9ha2g4V0v5wpJZZ5C5Q37wExX-fpSOruV-GOoMJFBeFp4zqG1jS8dBlcEHJl5shXHYh1191i-b6Mgg1dsqLGQaIbitJBAm1X37dR0xgQ_ewY9pJhzw94a0fwLqeH9Vm9QRxOdigEG7ROUoU/s3264/IMG_0514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdaPsNqDOZe9PFA8J_IpHQKovm9UAnVw6RpqVPcFSBt9ha2g4V0v5wpJZZ5C5Q37wExX-fpSOruV-GOoMJFBeFp4zqG1jS8dBlcEHJl5shXHYh1191i-b6Mgg1dsqLGQaIbitJBAm1X37dR0xgQ_ewY9pJhzw94a0fwLqeH9Vm9QRxOdigEG7ROUoU/w400-h300/IMG_0514.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Thanksgiving just might be my favorite holiday of all. No, it's not the turkey or stuffing or mashed potatoes or even the pumpkin pie. It is the pause to reflect on the things for which to be thankful.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For me, thanks are due not so much for things, though I am grateful for a roof over my head and food on my table. No, gratitude for me is about people and connections, I think.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I am thankful for a supportive family unit that is healthy and whole. I am thankful for friends and relationships that give me joy and opportunity to grow. I am thankful for the opportunity to give back through the Sawdust Art Enrichment Fund--philanthropic arm of the Sawdust Art Festival--and for the many wonderful connections through this giving. I am thankful for creative juices that continue to flow. I am thankful for the opportunity to hold art workshops that fuel me in innumerable ways, not least of which is the delight I feel when joining together with the many creative students involved.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">And, last but not least (and I'm certain I have forgotten so many things), I am thankful for each and every day in this beautiful place I call home.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-45842959896153991682022-10-23T11:13:00.000-07:002022-10-23T11:13:48.589-07:00WHASUP?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGliL5eZSQMtElv5wn8MloJaw5Fo1jLgPaGjppk5W6-5e8cC_azN0b91EYMW6EahOzPKYk3yWUQTwGdUzNeV_dac9aMymErPgXZLq6keFQAVdJalFmNU1d7syIRmsNafWZf7G8CdNhKa-JCkNuXJI4lQb57xuXrlGz8t7vcwAkXGaX_AnkXIwBPZ5j/s3264/IMG_02332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGliL5eZSQMtElv5wn8MloJaw5Fo1jLgPaGjppk5W6-5e8cC_azN0b91EYMW6EahOzPKYk3yWUQTwGdUzNeV_dac9aMymErPgXZLq6keFQAVdJalFmNU1d7syIRmsNafWZf7G8CdNhKa-JCkNuXJI4lQb57xuXrlGz8t7vcwAkXGaX_AnkXIwBPZ5j/s320/IMG_02332.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana;">Seems like forever since I've contributed anything to this blog. So "Whasup?" seemed the appropriate heading.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">So what IS up? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I have had a couple of really fun workshops filled with not only enjoyment galore but lots of experimenting and learning through the exploration. Fun!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">One of the techniques tried was transferring a magazine image using Gelli plates. This opened up several possibilities, including the one pictured here.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Also, what's up is getting ready for the Sawdust Art Festival's Winter Fantasy. I've been at work on some original pieces that can be super affordable for holiday giving and am excited about the result. There are parking challenges for this year's Winter Fantasy, but they are not insurmountable and the city and Sawdust staff are hard at work to create transportation opportunities so don't be daunted...come see us weekends November 19th thru December 18th.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-44200688864382906022022-09-15T11:04:00.000-07:002022-09-15T11:04:01.980-07:00WILL IT GET DONE THIS TIME??<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0QkiXlqbcnjp7rxNIsvUnK12v-MaulqSMLVMHlE6f1ldMLLPadgFwp7B2xJeKuLMPUxktOzUl5u45yfdWI-2cuPqQRmCKHmrYxBMoSQMNbHKYs1Axx7Am_bgFmyfg42wcyzAvhRyxccss5E_DSipekC0ZFQ2qSqneFUvccnOoFe0WIqibL860Pxge/s3264/IMG_0303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0QkiXlqbcnjp7rxNIsvUnK12v-MaulqSMLVMHlE6f1ldMLLPadgFwp7B2xJeKuLMPUxktOzUl5u45yfdWI-2cuPqQRmCKHmrYxBMoSQMNbHKYs1Axx7Am_bgFmyfg42wcyzAvhRyxccss5E_DSipekC0ZFQ2qSqneFUvccnOoFe0WIqibL860Pxge/s320/IMG_0303.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;">What is this pile? You wonder, right? Doesn't look like much...and in fact really isn't. But....It has potential, I think.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Every time I receive an order from my printer the green paper that pads things calls out to me with that potential. I see birds especially...sculpted from the lovely stuff. Plump little green guys. Maybe painted. Maybe not. Maybe with wire legs, button eyes? Possibility. Potential.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">But each time, after a while, I have not done it and the paper goes to the recycle bin. Will it happen this time?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Does anyone else have more ideas than time to explore them or is it just me? I doubt it's just me.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-84384968057361466092022-08-26T11:17:00.006-07:002022-08-26T11:17:56.707-07:00IS SUMMER OVER?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPu2VP-PLeps1qjnYDuRauU-yflLtqTMf4wAzr_bNbHTUbO4vPoic-_N-L-jekEUeaDLx0E87Ln28jiSUL4o9QOV5UNmGeAERmBg0NBpSI0hr8gB6VZO27H5I-gsoA-JKsZq9k4t0kuT9cbSAWYjPnQr2kzpS5A40yVcwaRVulqrddnidJLhdCwSgU/s2448/IMG_2881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPu2VP-PLeps1qjnYDuRauU-yflLtqTMf4wAzr_bNbHTUbO4vPoic-_N-L-jekEUeaDLx0E87Ln28jiSUL4o9QOV5UNmGeAERmBg0NBpSI0hr8gB6VZO27H5I-gsoA-JKsZq9k4t0kuT9cbSAWYjPnQr2kzpS5A40yVcwaRVulqrddnidJLhdCwSgU/s320/IMG_2881.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: verdana;">The weather doesn't tend to answer that question in the affirmative. But those who are doing the art festivals here in town are thinking that day is REAL close.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Festival season starts winding down this coming Sunday, August 28th, when the Sawdust Art Festival shutters for the season.( If you need tickets for this final weekend, email me at cherril@cherrildoty.com)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I'm thinking that it is getting close to time to hit the road for a short road trip (hence the picture here) And workshops start up for me again on September 18th (almost full) so plenty to think about.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">What are your plans?</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-7414456304159255012022-08-16T14:37:00.000-07:002022-08-16T14:37:20.044-07:00PLAYING AROUND GETS RESULTS <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyV-DGsGn4dOH5R67L4KGstH2EbLWgx562RtVQHwj-KqV7sn4oBhczwzqW2Thqzptec8tGjyUo67rzrmYkf1-4qvuXeSMnbd97xcPtcvyR-LqoqVhmB7ZZStn9sQalldMrOS4z7UVUzP73fFtL68UZhqyLCqLUJCUT0vpOCIHVIqTmrHG-2VXM_h2Z/s3264/IMG_0229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyV-DGsGn4dOH5R67L4KGstH2EbLWgx562RtVQHwj-KqV7sn4oBhczwzqW2Thqzptec8tGjyUo67rzrmYkf1-4qvuXeSMnbd97xcPtcvyR-LqoqVhmB7ZZStn9sQalldMrOS4z7UVUzP73fFtL68UZhqyLCqLUJCUT0vpOCIHVIqTmrHG-2VXM_h2Z/s320/IMG_0229.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">After experiencing beginner's luck with subsequent failures at the last mixed media playtime, I decided to take some time, study, and research to see if consistency might be achieved. And so I began. And went on. And tried again. And went on.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Finally, I met with some successes again--some better than others, I will admit. Still....I think if I keep at this.... Meanwhile, I am having some fun with the results (adding ephemera and more.) So stay tuned to see the final result.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For sure we will be doing more of this experimentation at the workshop on September 18th!!</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-46397263937789845302022-08-01T11:38:00.007-07:002022-08-01T12:58:48.732-07:00ONCE IN A WHILE...<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJXL_ZHkpLupx539wIE0TSP19nWEPOlnFfwtxXfDA8CRgohhH-MmRgMANJ-PjlqZsqI4gdPSGWMkdBVd_lPXllRYOzoqpBNCkO7GbZYZK4GhOowLfvuJx11igsPLKJbzp8nS5aVAHX8H1dyY0zCbE6GenqLBOuX5n9C4uvdvMAyoGQpznh7L-luiE/s1735/IMG_5981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1696" data-original-width="1735" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJXL_ZHkpLupx539wIE0TSP19nWEPOlnFfwtxXfDA8CRgohhH-MmRgMANJ-PjlqZsqI4gdPSGWMkdBVd_lPXllRYOzoqpBNCkO7GbZYZK4GhOowLfvuJx11igsPLKJbzp8nS5aVAHX8H1dyY0zCbE6GenqLBOuX5n9C4uvdvMAyoGQpznh7L-luiE/s320/IMG_5981.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">I have long thought that many of us who create do so in part to make connections with others through our art. Recently, I have been blessed to make a few of those connections and I would like to share this one with you because it is so beautiful:</span><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">As I do when I can, I reached out to the purchaser of an original piece--Crow in the Snow--and the following is the reply, which I have permission to share. I think it is pretty special.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">"Dear Cherril,</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Thank you so much for reaching out to me and I am fascinated to know that you loved this picture so much that you did not want to let it fly!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Let me tell you why I wanted to buy it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Firstly, it is a beautiful picture and I was attracted to it immediately due to its style and feel.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Beyond that, let me tell you a short story. A true one.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">I am English but I live here in Orange County. My daughter was born here. We went to England in June. She had previously bought me a book called '<i>England's Most Beautiful Villages.' </i>We decided to pick few local ones and make them the centerpiece of individual days.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">One day we picked Heptonstall in Yorkshire. On the way there we drove through Mytholmroyd. I knew that Ted Hughes, a former Poet Laureate, had been born there and, according to our charter that all interruptions and segues were to be followed, we stopped and looked for some record of his existence. We found the house he grew up in (until age 8), did some pics, and then I made her listen to me read 'Hawk in the Rain.'</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">We moved on towards Heptonstall but, in case you didn't know, Ted Hughes' <b><i>'</i></b><i style="font-weight: bold;">Crow:From the Life and Songs of the Crow'</i> was considered his masterpiece.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">In Heptonstall, quite unexpectedly, we came upon Ted Hughes' wife's grave. His wife was Sylvia Plath, an American, who was the author of The Bell Jar.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">We had a wonderful day.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">When I saw your Crow, I wanted it to remind me forever of that day during which we saw Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath but also ourselves and I knew that every time I looked at your Crow it would remind me of that day and my daughter forever.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">So thank you for all that!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Keith</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">WOW! Right? Such a delightful connection for all of us. And now I find I see Crow in the Snow through different eyes and I am soooo glad that I decided I could part with it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Connections are beautiful things and I thank Keith for sharing.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">(I thought to shorten his letter, but found I could not leave out one word.)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></div>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2473872390597588240.post-86444426766476968232022-07-06T15:37:00.000-07:002022-07-06T15:37:01.880-07:00AH, YES...THE ANSWER....<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkp1v8yd_BgMHJfaD4hVlr0OeSZytBJUY3rUueEDQup_v113F5uMzgJ8Jni8wm67rVNl61ac-Bw8kTXxS_GLMtZwKx2nyUH7pTFWt0A2qpgFdlCAI6kX_Z6CJxASNKRi6AHKIOWzIG9BU9k36mknjsqdnDJ_JobBOFY1IIHKI4HFpYybqp68ZjYXYe/s3264/IMG_0074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkp1v8yd_BgMHJfaD4hVlr0OeSZytBJUY3rUueEDQup_v113F5uMzgJ8Jni8wm67rVNl61ac-Bw8kTXxS_GLMtZwKx2nyUH7pTFWt0A2qpgFdlCAI6kX_Z6CJxASNKRi6AHKIOWzIG9BU9k36mknjsqdnDJ_JobBOFY1IIHKI4HFpYybqp68ZjYXYe/s320/IMG_0074.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">And of course the answer to "Will there be crows?" is a resounding YES! Whether one, two, three, or an entire murder of crows I seem to not be able to create without including at least some of them here and there.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">At the summer's Sawdust Art Festival this year you can find them in many forms, from cards to card collections, to prints, to originals. Several have flown away, but we will be there until August 28th is you want to meet the remaining ones. And of course, there are likely to be new ones coming along too.</span></p>cherril dotyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11667891568805171947noreply@blogger.com0