laughingjulia

Paintings for People

2011-05-10T13:26:00.001-04:00

On Valentine's Day I created a personal painting for my husband. The image of two canoes is how we approach our relationship-we see ourselves as rowing two separate canoes side-by-side.

I also painted a mini painting for my friend Jessie. It turned out as a subtle, subconscious reference to Georgia O'Keefe.

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Conduit Orlando

2011-05-08T15:30:00.002-04:00

I'm meeting the brains behind this operation this week, Shannon Staunton. Its great to see Orlando investing in artists, and motivating as well. I hope to be apart of this movement!

What am I doing these days?

2011-04-26T09:47:00.006-04:00

Back by popular demand (aka, my inner voice) is a blog post on laughingjulia.

I realized I had a couple projects to share:

A prize winning photo of a nail design from Le Petit Nails, featured in Nails Magazine!

Engagement photos for my good friends Joey and Elizabeth....

As well as their wedding photos...

Plus, I was the youngest artist at the Florida Museum for Women Artist's juried show, and they asked me to be apart of an expanded show in 2012! Several people commissioned work from me, and I got a new job! The challenge now is carving out time to spend on making a new website, spiffying up the etsy account, and creating new art to show and sell!

Why didn't I think these things were worth posting?

moleskine shots

2010-11-28T16:58:00.001-05:00

paintings I'm working on

2010-10-31T15:07:00.002-04:00

First Annual Juried Exhibition at the Florida Museum for Women Artists

2010-10-05T13:54:00.004-04:00

Still Life No. 1, watercolor and charcoal

They selected this piece to display with 40 other works of art! I can't believe I made it in this show, I feel blessed and honored.

The opening reception is November 19th and it will run until February 6th!

Here is the link to the website.

More work for Le Petit!

2010-09-20T10:47:00.004-04:00

"L'Amour c'est beaucoup mieux que du rouge a levres."

Love is better than red lipstick:)

Commission for Le Petit Nails

2010-08-18T15:01:00.004-04:00

Naomi, the owner of Le Petit Nails in downtown Sanford, asked me to paint the French word merci on a small strip of wall in her shop in exchange for a mani/pedi. I've never done something like this before, but it felt great to help a client with their vision. The trade-off was worth it because she gives the best mani/pedi's I've ever had! Make sure to stop by her shop sometime:)

Before...

During...

After!

moleskine shots

2010-08-16T17:16:00.005-04:00

My moleskine provides a fresh outlet and lately it allows me to explore a subtle topic in my work - voyeurism. Most of my unsuspecting models sit in coffee shops on their laptops. I watch them watch other people. What does that mean? Are the cut-off figures, awkward angles, and flat yet detailed backgrounds the result of a culture determined by still and moving images? Has facebook/myspace/reality tv/blogspot/ twitter/video chat/etc. permeated my brain entirely?

One technical question, how do these photos work for you?

deadlines? huh? rules? huh?

2010-08-06T08:55:00.007-04:00

After a full week of printing, all my ambitions were dashed when I discovered the show required an entry of five or more pieces (on the day of the deadline), and no less than five pieces submitted total. What was Plan B? Entering the drawings instead of the prints, plus create one new drawing (above). Working to the deadline made me uncomfortable, I think the point is to work the whole time, and build an inventory to choose from.

Below are the prints I started (there are two more to create in the series). The top one isn't finished.

These are some monoprints from the process which are interesting in their own right.

This project motivated me, as well as watching "Work of Art - The Next Great Artist." I'm determined to stay on track, hold myself accountable to the amount of time I spend on art, and keep making no matter what. The exciting part is the world of possibilities to create - sculpture, painting, prints, collages, photos, drawings, nothing is off limits.

break time

2010-07-28T16:54:00.004-04:00

My studio is fully functioning and rapidly producing for a July 31st deadline (see call for entries below). I'm finally getting somewhere! I forgot making art is it's own reward, but I like the new found motivation. Sometimes I think to myself, "I get to do this for a living?!", and realize the importance of loving what I do.

Now off for a little coffee...and then back to the grind.

Assignment #5

2010-07-06T10:06:00.005-04:00

Henri Matisse, Crockery on a Table, 1900

Recently I met with Jerry Biuso, a life coach on a mission to help people achieve success. He challenged me to research creative jobs, my clientele, and the lives of other artists. The latter assignment lead me to a significant discovery-most of the artists I admire lead complete lives as artists. They never stopped making art. Even when money was tight, or their art was unacceptable to the public. Some of them started out as something else, but their desire to make art pulled at them, and they rejected any other options. I looked for comfort from their early history, thinking maybe one or two of them worked in a restaurant like me, but after finding little information about their beginnings, I realized I was missing the point. Their art overshadowed whatever else they did for money. They weren't meant to lead interesting lives, they were meant to make beautiful art. And for that, they sacrificed everything.

Call to Florida Women Artists

2010-07-05T10:43:00.003-04:00

CALL TO FLORIDA WOMEN ARTISTS

Show title: First Annual Juried Exhibition

Exhibition Dates – November 19, 2010 – February 6, 2011

• July 31*, 2010 – Postmark deadline for applications
• September 15, 2010 - Notification of Jury results
• November 9-13, 2010 – Delivery of selected artworks
• November 19, 2010 - Opening reception
• February 8-10, 2011 - Pick up artworks at FMWA

Florida Museum for Women Artists

100 N. Woodland Blvd. Suite 1, DeLand, Fl 32720

Museum Hours: Tue-Thurs 11am-6pm, Fri-Sat 11am-7pm, Sun 1pm-5pm.

Phone: (386) 873-2976

Get an application here:

www.FloridaMuseumforWomenArtists.org

Work of Art - Photos - Episode 4: Rate the Work | Bravo TV Official Site

2010-07-01T19:37:00.000-04:00

Work of Art - Photos - Episode 4: Rate the Work | Bravo TV Official Site

Yesterday I started watching "Work of Art: The Next Great Artist" on Bravo. I know I know, a reality show, but I enjoyed it, even though most of the artists defaulted to lowest common denominator with sex as their subject matter. Their challenge was to create work based on shock value judged by guest Andres Serrano. The winner (see link above), Abdi won the challenge because his piece revealed something shockingly complex. His sculpture young black men are "improvised explosive devices" and it's only a matter of time until their fuse is lit, and they explode. He made the challenge fit with his vision. The show records some great critiques and issues, it exercised my art mind, maybe I'll come up with a shocking piece of art this week!

summer projects

2010-06-02T15:55:00.005-04:00

Above is my first acrylic painting of the summer, coming along slowly. Like drawing, intensity and precision are most important while painting. Eventually I'll switch to oil painting. The best masters made art in multiple mediums - paint, sculpture, printmaking and drawing - maybe as a way to keep it interesting? Its certainly a challenge.

My interest in still lives lead me to the idea of an American still life in response to a Dutch still life. The Dutch bought expensive rugs, vases, fruits, and furnishings. The expression of American wealth is less attractive, resembling piles of cheap furniture, large televisions, and branded with 'made in china.' Will our civilization be remembered for taste and cultural excellence? Or is it headed backwards?

Do you have any painting tricks or tips?

moleskine shots

2010-06-02T15:19:00.005-04:00

Here are a couple shots from my moleskine. I use it to test compositions, record days, and think about emerging themes in my art. The strongest theme is portraits of people behind their computers. These days a common human encounter involves some type of electronic device. Are the imperfect lines interesting or amateur? I find them interesting records of moments in time.

coffee clatch

2010-05-06T16:13:00.004-04:00

This morning I met for coffee with two lovely ladies; Mary Shaw, artist and manager of the Jeanine Taylor Folk Art Gallery on First Street in Downtown Sanford and Greta Lyn Baxter, an artist and illustrator who lives in the Sanford area. Mary also writes the arts column in our local paper (she wrote about my work a couple months ago). It encouraged me to hear them talk about their art happenings, and motivated me to spend the rest of the day working!

collector's visit

2010-05-06T15:58:00.004-04:00

Today I tidied up my studio because a VIP is coming over to view my art! I hope I don't overwhelm her, but I want her to see my progression within the past couple of years, and where I'm at. Selecting pieces to display revealed a pattern in my work-I go between sensitive lines and colors and clean lines and local color. Each time I switch, a little of each peeks out in my work, as if I'm blending the two. At this point I swing towards sensitivity.

gettin' around to it

2010-05-02T15:17:00.004-04:00

Finally! Pics from the Indie Craft Bazaar! A fun time was had by all, it was great to see all my Ft. Lauderdale friends. A special thank you to my Mom who was a great sport, and helped me out all day.

Fellow artists and bloggers Ashlee Walters and Christen Fulk of papershow and viaaaacollage respectively

I learned from this sale that I need to get serious about where I sell my art. Its time for me to take it to a gallery! A year ago, I was uncomfortable with that idea, but right now it feels like the right step.

I'm still catching up from last weekend; I've got to create an email list (leave your email if you would like to be on it!); photograph my work; and get my studio back into shape.

See you back here later this week!

possible table display?

2010-04-22T18:51:00.003-04:00

Ready to hang work! I hope it attracts buyers, it certainly makes my work look better. I'll display framed work, and unframed work will be available for purchase. Frames have a tendency to fall down when not propped up though. One option: request a booth against a wall, another: prop up the ones with flat edges, lean some against the table legs, and use easels for the rest (as shown). I'm working with a 4ft. table (and have 6ft. of space). Thoughts on the table cloth? Too distracting?

merchandise bags

2010-04-22T18:45:00.003-04:00

I have 300 more of these gems to print! The Indie Craft Bazaar is just around the corner, I want to bring my best. P.S., I tried a new ink today, Jacquard Professional Quality Screen Printing Ink. You can get a run of 100 prints out of it before needed to wash it out. It gives great results!

mini prints with swagger

2010-04-20T15:57:00.005-04:00

Fresh off the screen, here are my 5x5" prints for the giveaway at the Indie Craft Bazaar! The first 100 people receive swag bags with all kinds of goodies from the vendors. I'm pumped for this weekend, Fourth Fridays AND the Indie Craft Bazaar. It feels good to put some art out there in the world.

Languid Lounge, silkscreen, 2010

additional info for the indie craft bazaar

2010-04-15T10:29:00.001-04:00

Come join us at Cinema Paradiso on April 25, 2010 from 1-6 PM for an Indie Craft Bazaar, chock full of handmade, vintage, repurposed, recycled and vegan goods!

Ain't Your Country Kitchen Mama's Crafts! We'll be selling all sorts of cute, unique and quirky goods including jewelry, hand-sewn, crocheted and knitted items, original art, vintage clothing and items, baked goods and other yummy things for non-vegans and vegans alike, paper goods and more!

Music, arts and crafts, food, beer and prizes! What more could you ask for?!

$3 Admission - Includes ticket for a raffle full of handmade prizes! FREE PARKING!!

FIRST 100 GUESTS RECEIVE FREE SWAG BAG FULL OF GOODIES!

Just in time for Tax Return treats for yourself and Mothers Day gifts!

http://www.getupandcraft.com for more info + sign up for our newsletter and receive an EXTRA ticket into the raffles

fourth fridays update / new schedule

2010-04-13T10:32:00.004-04:00

Migraineur's Self-Portrait was accepted in to the last Fourth Fridays show at the Historic Sanford Welcome Center! The opening of the show is April 23, 2010 at 6pm, and it will run the length of May. Nancy Irish, the show's coordinator, told me someone else submitted art dealing with migraines, I'm excited to see his work.

Today starts some changes in my lifestyle. My husband Jeff starts his new job today as a full-time paramedic, which means he will have 12 hour shifts instead of 24 hour ones. His change of pace inspired me to get a fixed schedule at my day job (the restaurant) which will allow for more ART MAKING time. I'm putting away excuses, and actually working on art. Wish me luck!

laughingjulia in the news

2010-04-13T10:16:00.008-04:00

The Sanford Herald, April 7, 2010

Mary Shaw writes the Arts Column in my city's local paper, The Sanford Herald. She covered my show at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, below is her article.

"Take a Seat - While you're catching a performance at the art center, be sure to check out the visual arts display of Sanford resident Julia Owens, a University of Central Florida graduate who majored in printmaking.

The mini-collection of her prints reflects her interest in the contrasts between the contrived interiors in which humans dwell and their more natural surroundings. Consequently, you'll notice Owens has a thing for modern furniture.

If you can't catch her work in the lobby, you can find her online at http://laughingjulia.blogspot.com."

Mary Shaw, Sanford Herald, April 7,2010

indie craft bazaar!

2010-04-11T19:14:00.002-04:00

I just found out I was accepted as a vendor at the Indie Craft Bazaar on April 25th! I'm making a road trip down to Ft. Lauderdale for this one. The first 100 people will receive swag bags (which will include a laughingjulia mini-print!) . Find out more info here!!!

gifts

2010-04-07T16:33:00.003-04:00

I broke out the screen-printing equipment today to make a gift for my friend Ashlee who is going to UGA this summer! I'm not sure if I like the way it came out, but the good part about my gift is I can use the back if I need to. Do you make presents for your friends? I want to know!

submission

2010-04-02T09:37:00.002-04:00

Migraineur's Self-Portrait, 2008

Fourth Fridays is a local art show at the Welcome Center in Sanford, where I live. I've shown four works of art there over the past season, and I submitted the etching above for their people themed show. Its fun to look at work you haven't seen in awhile and extrapolate new meanings from it. The texture of this piece happened on accident, but looking closer, I see how my migraines influenced it. The effect of striated lines of light across my face, along with the intensity of my expression, remind me of experiencing a migraine in which I become sensitive to light and must concentrate in order to survive the pain. The composition is weak, but I appreciate the new meaning of this piece. Hopefully they will except this funky little print into the show! I'll let you know.

book report & organization

2010-03-29T20:25:00.005-04:00

I'm reading ART/WORK by Heather Darcy Bhandari and Jonathan Melber. Its written for artists who are just starting out, and it made me realize I need to get the ball rolling on my art career! I highly recommend the book, it covers every aspect of art as a business and it has some great advice from artists, curators and gallery owners.

I decided to put up a couple more pictures of my studio because I organized it today. My love of organization makes me wonder about my artistic personality. I see pictures of some artist's studios and they're piled high with paint tubes, papers, coffee cans and canvas. Maybe their spaces are organized chaos. Having my own studio is an adjustment to having a big, pre-arranged art school at my service. I now think about limiting distractions, the amount of space I have, and where to put all of my supplies. Also, my limited income means getting supplies few and far between. Do you have a special place to make art? Is organization important to your art-making?

my studio

2010-03-26T09:59:00.004-04:00

of course chairs...

My studio inspired my good friend Ashlee Walters of the blog papershow, and she asked me to write a post about it. I used to think it was small and came with multiple distractions (because its at home), but lately I appreciate the the amount of space I get for the least amount of money. A local gallery provides studio space/gallery services to artists, but the spaces are half the size of mine, and twice as much. I'll stick with what I've got for now!

computer in the closet

new stuff

2010-03-23T12:03:00.004-04:00

I just took some quick photos of my recent drawings. These preliminary ideas are for a set of still life screen prints. Mary Cassatt influences them, as well as Matisse. My challenge is to create a still life in a way that deviates from the standard. Nowadays still life is a moot concept. The Dutch painted still lives to showcase the wealth of their country, and wealth certainly isn't moot. Maybe the originality will come from expressing wealth and the fast pace society we live in?

mini-show!!

2010-03-22T11:36:00.008-04:00

I currently have five pieces on display (and for sale) at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in Sanford. Rae Marie of Framing 508 gallery asked me to show my work there! The theater is located at 201 South Magnolia Avenue Sanford, FL 32771, you'll find my work in the lobby.

Tumbling down the rabbit hole...

2010-03-21T17:39:00.005-04:00

I must admit I did take a tumble for quite sometime, neglecting something that truly matters to me, art. Its hard to work full time, and find the energy to make art. I'm still navigating the best way to do this. Maybe I need to blog everyday to get the juices flowing? Tomorrow I am going to make art for the first time in a long time.

Although I did not fully enjoy Tim Burton's newest film Alice in Wonderland, I liked looking at the story from the concept of migraines. I recently read a memoir called 'A Brain Wider Than the Sky' by Andrew Levy. In his book, he explores the causes, medicines, and people associated with migraines. He mentioned Lewis Carroll, a migraine sufferer, and argued that Alice In Wonderland is a novel about the course of a migraine. Throughout her experiences she mimics those who suffer from a headache who "eat this" or "drink this" to thwart the pain. Maybe you're thinking, "yeah right, I thought it was about an opium dream." But maybe he smoked opium to get rid of his headaches. I truly believe art is influenced by pain more than anything else, even with our attempts to get rid of it. Do you have any philosophical ideas about pain?

Today I'll leave you with the Swedish artist Karin Mamma Andersson. Below is Abandoned, printed by Crown Point Press. Her work resembles stages or movie scenes, yet it captures a deep personal tone as well. What do you think?

Alive After Five

2009-12-28T15:46:00.005-05:00

My first solo art sale was on December 10th at an event called Alive After Five on First Street in Sanford. I made some great connections, but unfortunately the weather was a little chilly so I will give it another shot! Also coming up in January is the Fourth Fridays show at the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, I hope to participate again! Below is the print I submitted.

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-01T17:07:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share some of my Christmas decorating pics, because its the first year Jeff and I have really celebrated together. We got married almost a year ago a week before Christmas. Our lil' tree is sitting on our dining table, it makes everything feel warm and cozy.

I'm thinking about illustrating and printing some calendars as presents this year. What are you giving this season?

Bad Blogger!

2009-12-01T16:42:00.008-05:00

I recently received a new, fast computer from my parents, which means I can now blog at the speed of light. No more excuses. Here's what I've been up to lately:

My friend Cat Snapp dates a handyman who made me this wonderful shelf to keep all of my art flat and relatively organized. I love love love it! The next step is to make room by selling some art!

This is the cookie my mother and I made for my sister-in-law's wedding. I think it's rather whimsical, don't you? Below is a photo I took at the reception, it has more of that whimsical quality to it.

I designed these t-shirts for a cruise my family took the week before Thanksgiving. The best part is I created them using my at-home equipment, which leads me to believe I've been a whiner all along...

Today I met with a framer/photographer in Sanford who runs an art fair once a month, and the monthly art show at the performing arts center. She has a great portfolio of pet photography. It was great to meet her, and I may even sell at the fair next week! She helped me with some of my framing, because two of my drawings will be in the OMA show on Thursday! I'm really excited to show my work this month, it gives me much needed motivation. I'll try and take pictures this time, so you all can see what it was like.

OMA Submissions

2009-11-05T12:18:00.003-05:00

I submitted these 10x11 in. drawings to OMA today, as I dropped off a print for their Interiors/Exteriors show tonight! Their next show is a Line Art Party. I love line so much. Here is my artist statement:

Talking about line instantly turns me into an art geek. Line drawing - the most basic form of art - gave birth to the graphic mediums I admire and use. My mind lingers on the painstaking measures taken by Albrecht Durer to form precise, razor-sharp lines, or the carefree, supple marks of Toulouse Lautrec. Both of these artists rejected exclusivity in art - they used line to reach the masses. Maybe thats why I love line, it subtly rebels against tradition.

What do you think?

A Lil' Print

2009-10-29T16:35:00.003-04:00

Sin of sins I broke into the UCF print room to use their exposure unit - and it worked brilliantly!! I needed it to create these combination fan/programs for my sister in law's wedding in two weeks. I going to sell my worthless exposure unit and try for something better.

Last Friday I displayed my drawing above (titled "In its Place") in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center's show "The Beauty of Transparency." It will be displayed until January, as well as some additional prints. Make sure to visit Downtown Sanford, I highly recommend the Willow Tree Cafe for authentic and tasty German food and beer!

Next Thursday one of my prints will appear in the Orlando Museum of Art's 1st Thursdays Interiors/Exteriors show. What a perfect concept for my work! I'm excited to see how other Orlando artists interpret interiors and exteriors.

What have YOU been working on lately? I am interested in seeing what people have going right now! Please send me photos! juliasowens@yahoo.com

Complex

2009-10-13T13:24:00.003-04:00

Some of you may know about my guilt complex, and some of you know now. I was enthusiastic when I started my print-a-day experiment - my tools worked properly and everything flowed smoothly. But then my studio went caddywampus and with no recovery whatsoever. I even tried to start drawing once a day, to no avail (one drawing in the last two weeks). My first post today reveals where my effort has gone - into crafty items. But they require minimal effort to create. And that's where my guilt complex kicks in. This experiment should challenge me and teach me about self-motivation outside of the educational arena. Instead I discovered new ways to procrastinate and put off making my art.

I have gone through a period of self-reflection during this slacking off time (I'm just going to be honest about it). My studio, however small, will have to suffice, and I need to practice working despite the conditions. Also, my art feels stagnant even though my passion for my subject matter refuses to die. Earlier today I contemplated the "big picture". Most of my content reflects a self-portrait of sorts. My concern with consumerism is out of a sick love/hate relationship I have with it. I love to look at furniture and goods, but yet feel guilty when tempted by the "gotta have it" attitude. In writing, they said you should write about what you know. I think the same goes for art.

So the question to myself is, "what else do I know about?"

Handi-Crafts

2009-10-13T12:48:00.007-04:00

My dear friend Ashlee and I used to discuss the merits of other crafts (i.e. graphic design, textile design, handi-crafts, etc.) versus art. I value art as much as other items of aesthetic nature because I love to create. I don't do art purism. That said, I would like to share my latest creations (other than art) with you all. Mainly I've created things for my sister-in-law, her wedding is in a month.My mom and I practiced making these delicious sugar cookies for her shower. We will make some for her wedding as well.

I made the flower arrangements as well as the little cloth corsage on the left (the blurry picture). The small banner reads Bride to Be. I also made one for the Mother of the Bride.

Coming up this week: programs for the wedding (the last item to make!), a halloween costume (required for my day job), and also some t-shirts (for a family cruise in November). What do you make when you're not making art? Food? Crafts? Clothes? I would like to see other's non-art creations!

Work in Progress

2009-10-05T16:50:00.004-04:00

I must admit, drawing wasn't the most exciting thought to me today. Once I started however, it helped me to think about the direction of my work, especially how to reconcile my convictions about materialism vs. the natural world. This drawing is no where near polished but it possesses some intriguing elements. The tiny bit of foliage peaking through the window, the drab interior and the colorful pattern on the pillow are themes that have appeared in my work before but instead of separate entities I now think of how they work together to support my concept. More on this later...

I also wanted to share an engagement photo I took this weekend for my sister in law. Congrats Jenny and Timothy!

Getting back on the horse

2009-10-02T15:58:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone! I've neglected you these past couple of weeks, but I resolve to keep going no matter what! Yesterday I entered two art shows, one at the Historic Sanford Welcome Center and the other at the Orlando Museum of Art. I'm really excited about getting my work out there in some new venues. The print studio is down for the count at the moment. Monday I will try again, and might work something out with Mama's Sauce. In the meantime print-a-day will switch to drawing-a-day until I establish a working studio. Here are a couple of drawings (not recent) I submitted to the Historic Sanford Welcome Center's "Transparency" show. I'm not sure if they will become prints yet but I'm drawn to the composition of them.

Well, I must go, I'm working a double today at my day job. Wish me luck!

Mystery Print = Miserable Print

2009-09-22T15:48:00.003-04:00

What would an artist be without failures? I apologize for my broken record syndrome - I'M FRUSTRATED! This print resembles the hand of a first time printmaker - no registration, spots, bad line quality and poor color. I thought I found my studio sweet spot but I spoke too soon. Maybe thats why it looks amateur - because my studio is amateur? The technical details bog me down...I can't continue with this set, but tomorrow is another day, and I will rise to the occasion yet again.

Mystery Print

2009-09-21T16:25:00.005-04:00

My print for the week requires more involvement - six colors total. I ran two colors today and tomorrow will finish it and start on two more sets.

These past three weeks something my silkscreen professor Ryan Burkhart said about printing rings in my head, "There are always new problems when screen printing." He was a great printmaker, I appreciated his philosophy. He addressed the frustration of technical issues and taught me to expect problems, figure out how to overcome them, and make art in spite of it.

This weekend I rearranged my mini-studio and put most of it in my garage (to save myself from any messes on the carpet upstairs).

Current wish list for my studio: wash-out booth (using a hose and a pressure washer in the yard), exposure unit with a vacuum top (will settle for cinder blocks), drying rack (using a table), and smaller screens (easier to handle because I'm making small work). First I need to sell some art!

Stationery

2009-09-18T17:59:00.002-04:00

Lately I'm into letter writing letters, and since graphic design is on the menu this week, I made myself some personal stationery. I printed on French Paper in Modtone Blush, and my name should be in a deep purple, but it looks black. I'm excited to respond to my pen pals with my own stuff! Have a good weekend!

Late Night Print

2009-09-16T22:39:00.004-04:00

There's nothing like printing at 10:30pm to remind you of the panic and stress of a morning class deadline. But now I keep stricter deadlines for myself! Committing to a print a day proves a tad harder than I originally thought. I completed the experimentation phase and this week I'm catching up from lost time. I hold myself to a standard too early on in the process - I'm working out the flow of the mini studio, what works and what wastes time - so I shouldn't be so quick to feel guilty. I desire the level of art making where nothing gets in the way, I mean nothing. It seems as if I continually chase this goal but a truly working studio is around the corner for me.

Because you my loyal readers support me, I want to treat you with a mini print on canvas. I made five of these in red-orange and they come with a mini easel as well! Yes, I splurged and bought these at the register in Art Systems. Here's the deal, the first five people to comment on this post will receive one! All for showing some love:)

No print tomorrow, I work ALL day at my other job because it's "Halfway to St. Patrick's Day." I didn't know people celebrated such things. Ah well, money is money. See ya back here on Friday.

SUCCESS!!!

2009-09-15T14:55:00.006-04:00

I completed the invitations yesterday with the help of the mother of the bride. All of my pictures come out pixelated after I crop them (I won't bother with any technical frustration today). The invitations fit into a No.10 envelope, and are printed on metallic card stock following the color scheme navy and green. The green leafy paper ribbon will hold the invitation and rsvp card together. The rsvp card transforms into a postcard when the bottom portion (with registry and location info) is torn off. They perfectly reflect the simple style of the wedding and they are completed (that's the best part!).

After the many experiments last week I figured out the "mini studio sweet spot." Also, Nick at Mama's Sauce kindly talked to me - we might work out a studio situation. Hmm, a Mama's Sauce interview on my blog sounds intriguing...

This weekend my Mom and I created some adorable pillows I thought I'd share.

I'm particularly fond of the pillow on the left - I recycled an old thrift shop shirt and made it into a pillow (and kept the character of the shirt).

Well I must be off, I have an ETSY order to attend to! Stay tuned for tomorrow's print (its guaranteed this time).

In desperate need of an intervention

2009-09-12T22:01:00.003-04:00

My equipment problems took a turn for the worse! For some reason these prints won't print! Tomorrow is my last attempt and if it doesn't work out then I see three options:

1.) Buy a new screen from Sam Flax

2.) Have the silkscreen shop Mama's Sauce print it for me

3.) Sneak into my old stomping grounds (aka UCF print room) and use their stuff

But I so desired to get this mini-studio up and running! Any suggestions or encouragement to get me through this rough patch?

Morning cocktail...napkin

2009-09-10T08:50:00.003-04:00

I'm on a double today, so this post is early. I'm not sure if my camera captured the same colors, but both napkins are the same green. This monogram graces the invites! It stands for JMT (Jennifer and Timothy Mellon) and the bride wanted it to look symmetrical. My sister and go-to calligraphist Kirstie created the monogram earlier this summer, and I bought the circle graphic from French Paper. Invites tomorrow! The cherry on top of a catastrophic week. I might make Saturday a bonus blog day so I catch up on my prints.

One Print of Week Two on Day Three

2009-09-09T17:36:00.003-04:00

I renege my previous statements regarding the quantity of work produced today. I eked out one print (similar to giving birth), and I'm getting closer to figuring out my equipment. I realized the title to Monday's post should have been "Labor Day Pains," so I changed it. I printed 100 napkins today as part of the design work for my sister-in-law's wedding. What do you think? I came up with the clever design myself:P The cocktail napkin coordinates with the invitations (not yet printed). I must get back to my work - I can't give up because of frustration.

Day Two of Technical Difficulties

2009-09-08T21:26:00.003-04:00

I'm completely beside myself with frustration at all things light sensitive! I finally figured out my problem (thanks to youtube) and realized a better way to expose my screens. Tomorrow I guarantee at least 3 prints to make up for the past two days! The most frustrating part about technical problems is the time it takes away from my art. Thank you for your patience! See ya tomorrow.

Labor Day Pains

2009-09-07T15:52:00.006-04:00

I planned to make stencils today with my exposure unit - which turned into an experiment with my exposure unit. I'm still working out the kinks and I have my other job at 5pm, so unfortunately no fresh print today. Once I figure out the exposure system the prints will flow once more:)

The theme this week is Wedding Design! My sister-in-law Jennifer is getting married in November, and she asked me to create her wedding invitations, programs, and a couple other printed items. So the prints between Tuesday and Friday are for her. I leave you all with the image above, and I hope everyone enjoyed a little day off.

Polka Dot Chair No.4 + ETSY Listings!

2009-09-04T14:31:00.001-04:00

The final print of the first week! I have to say, this week turned me around. This is a print on linen canvas, and the yellow "fabric" of the chair is a nice yellow Mango paper. I like the vintage-y quality.

Below is a link to my new ETSY listings of everything from this week! Thanks for hanging out with me, see you back here on Monday:)

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade
laughingjulia.etsy.com

Mellow Yellow

2009-09-03T14:38:00.001-04:00

This print on Stonehenge paper chine colle'd (Cheen-co-lay: china glue) on top of handmade paper. With the right mat and frame the rough edges are eliminated. I deal with yellow today and tomorrow. When making one print with a color, I automatically want to try the color in another print, thus the sporadic theme days this week. Next week's theme is a surprise!

I decided the black space defines the art posted for each day so it will stay! I'm also deliberating whether or not my blog draws more interest as a main website. I would keep my ETSY and my blog, streamline the design of both, and scrap my website. The appeal of my blog is the daily interaction. Cons to the blog are that my followers list is scarce (but I love the ones I've got!), and there is no defined portfolio area (which is important for galleries to see). I attended a lecture about web marketing and art a couple months ago, and they gave an example of one artist who discovered more people knew about her through her blog, not her website. Does anyone have thoughts about this?

After only four days of daily prints my outlook is transformed. A sense of purpose replaced my previous gloominess. Its fun to play with images, colors and textures, and its fulfilling to work with the medium I love - printmaking.

1st Thursdays at the Orlando Museum of Art tonight! It starts at 6pm and is $10 for non-members. Congratulations to Cat and Ashlee!

Lil Bit O' HOT PINK!

2009-09-02T13:08:00.000-04:00

Obviously this week I used two different stencils to produce different versions of the same image. In the future I plan to create more complex, color involved images, but the two color prints eased me into daily prints. I'm not crazy about this print, the color combo isn't doing it for me. What's great about a print a day is you get a couple chances to get a print right in a variety of ways. I printed this image first about three months ago on linen. It succeeded in my opinion (the complementary colors work).

I'm looking forward to a couple new images next week! My exposure unit came in the mail two days ago, I've got to warm it up!

What do you think about the picture format above? Should I crop to the edges, or leave black space?

The Paolo Nutini concert last night was great! I forgot Disneyworld houses the highest concentration of Brits in America, and seeing how Paolo Nutini is from Scotland, they made sure to support his music. If you don't know, I spent three years in England when I was little. I started school there and developed quite an accent - hearing it always warms my heart:)

Tomorrow night my friends Ashlee and Cat have work up at Orlando Museum of Art's 1st Thursdays - "Eclectic Knights." It starts at 6:oopm and is $10 to get in - unfortunately I work at the restaurant tomorrow night, but if you want something to do check out the art coming from UCF!

laughingjulia chair

2009-09-01T13:42:00.000-04:00

I love hot pink print on Pesca paper! Hot pink is the theme for today and tomorrow - oh what is the beautiful appeal of hot pink? Pesca paper is a shade of icy blue (the photo makes it look white). I will print two more versions this week and next week - I used it for my website, banners on my ETSY and blog, and on my business cards. I'm unsure if this print is complete, but I'm glad its started.

Tonight my friend Jenna and I are seeing Paolo Nutini in concert. I just love his voice! One of my personal goals this year is to see more live music. Does anyone have an upcoming show they're excited about?

If you are interested in purchasing a print from me, contact me at juliasowens@yahoo.com.

The beginning of something great!

2009-08-31T15:09:00.000-04:00

Today is the first day of my ambitious project! I included a bonus print today as well. Please enjoy!

Interesting substrates are the theme today - the first monoprint is on a slice of wood from a tree - similar to rustic silhouettes. The second, on a sheet of light green handmade paper. I'm eager to hear how to improve these!

The color scheme on the wooden plaque is my current obsession (blue, gray and orange). The idea of this frilly scene on the raw wood intrigues me. Most of my work deals with consumerism and the divide it creates between man and nature - people worship fleeting man-made items and ignore, reject and destroy renewable nature. Maybe the message isn't behind the print yet, but what does it say when nature upholds a man-made image representative of consumerism? In the next few weeks I will print on a couple more wooden plaques.

Another idea I ponder lately is strength from weakness. My mini-studio limits the kind of work I do - I use a 10-inch squeegee, a 30x40-inch screen, and a dining room table. But these limitations force me to think abstractly about my work and improve the content and quality of what I do. What limitations do others encounter when approaching their work? How does it better or hinder your work? Are limitations necessary to get a task completed?

As a housekeeping aside, all of the works featured during the week will be available for purchase on my ETSY the Friday of that week. If you are interested in purchasing directly from me, you may contact me at any time through my email address: juliasowens@yahoo.com.

Mini Studio Love

2009-08-26T18:07:00.000-04:00

My mini-studio equals 90% complete! The exposure unit is on its way, I need to mix up some emulsion, and take a trip to Colonial Photo and Hobby for a dark room light bulb. The studio consists of two areas - one, the guest room and two, the dining room. My desk and supplies share the guest room and I use the dining room table to print on. I created a screen printing board with hinges for my screens with a $5 piece of paneling from IKEA (its super smooth!). These are the essential items (shown above) - my squeegee, screen, papers, inks, and of course SIMPLE GREEN. All of this is true printmaking geekery, but I realized how workspace dictates the amount and quality of work. Without a decent workspace, I produced nothing this summer except for several blog posts about how I wasn't working. Now I must watch out for another issue - the distraction of working from home.

I will begin "daily prints" on Monday, August 31st, and will post pictures of what I make everyday during the week (Monday-Friday), and will post them over on my ETSY for sale. I'd appreciate feedback from everyone! I'm not sure how long this will last - maybe a year? I'm beginning to sound like a movie after my namesake...

See you all on Monday!

Here I go again on my own

2009-08-20T08:35:00.000-04:00

I wear this uniform to work. No its not a halloween costume. Its real. I'm not sure how I feel about it, at the moment its exciting to dress for work. I wonder how long that feeling lasts.

I start training today, which means I will make part-time money today, which means I will contribute to the survival of me and my husband. That feels good.

It also feels good to follow a schedule and know my art is picking up speed.

And so, life goes on

Nostalgia

2009-08-18T13:43:00.001-04:00

Summer creeped up on me. My sister is leaving for her final year in college; after that she plans to join the peace corps. My first dog died. My parents moved, my friends moved, I moved. I'm gainfully employed (finally!) as a part-time waitress and I make art on my own. Actually, I'm doing everything on my own. For really the first time ever. It is one massive slow moving change. I'm supposed to schedule my time, make work, and thrive. All of this makes me feel nostalgic, melancholy and weepy. Grief is what it is. Is it okay to feel nostalgic? Sometimes I wonder if I'm silly about it.

I'm happy for my sister and my friends leading new lives. They inspire me to find the life I should lead. I have a new life-new job, new place, no school. But what is it I should be doing? Where should I be? Who should I be with? These are things I wish to discover this year.

On my way...

2009-08-06T16:37:00.000-04:00

I finally picked up my printing tools from the studio!! I realized if I sell some of my copper plates to a metal recycling center I'll make enough money to get my mini-studio going.

I need a pressure washer, some photo emulsion, a squeegee, a scooper thing (not sure I know the correct term), some paper and I'll be all set to get printing.

I'm feeling good about the next month! Its time to put away excuses and just work.

New post + A commitment to blog more

2009-07-30T20:53:00.000-04:00

I've had a successful day after a series of unsuccessful months. I sold three prints and also have a good chance of securing a part-time job. With a little capital saved up I can focus on producing and selling art within the next year. Here are a couple of my legitimate ideas/goals/plans:

1.) Set-up a basic print studio in my garage and a dark room in my 2nd bathroom (this studio has to really function).

2.) Make a commitment to make an edition of 5 every weekday, using the same stencil per week. The print will be on different materials, with different colors (I'm drawing inspiration from this website).

3.) Attempt to sell a print a day through my blog and/or ETSY account.

4.) Sell back-up inventory at a couple of art fairs within the next year.

5.) Get some advertising by entering First Thursdays at the OMA.

Looking at all of these plans in writing, I am confident I can carry them out this year. Now I must put aside excuses and get crackin.

New Website!

2009-07-03T22:36:00.000-04:00

My official website is up! Check out my portfolio and design work!

http://www.juliaowens.net

I would love feedback!

The Passing of a Great Artist

2009-06-30T11:48:00.001-04:00

Like many people this past week, I too must comment on Michael Jackson's death. My sister and I watched youtube videos, tv specials, and listened to his memorial station on satellite radio. Like many brilliant artists, his time and devotion went to his art while his personal life suffered greatly. And like a few rare artists, his prodigiousness carried on into adulthood. The progression of his life is seen through his music videos or what some call short films. His abilities in singing and dancing are unmatched. His business sense, however squandered it was towards the end, was shrewd and calculating. Business never hindered him creatively. In fact, he understood how business would eventually allow for the greatest creative freedom. As tragic and convoluted as his life was, he still possessed the prowess to build his brand. I respect that about Michael Jackson, I feel inspired as an artist by his legacy, and I wonder if he was crazy or just extremely focused on selling his art.

Summer Bummin'

2009-06-03T15:37:00.000-04:00

I've been rather distant from my blog, but I think it's time to really take it seriously.

From my last entry, I've since graduated (magna cum laude!). Part of me desires to be self-employed and part of me gives in to finding a 9-5er or waitressing gig. I haven't given the effort needed to either one.

As someone who is self-employed, I picture myself making art, handmade goods, taking photographs, and doing design work in order to make a living. I'm not entirely sure how to get that started without putting out some significant capital, something that I don't have at the moment.

After thinking through that possibility, I come to realize maybe a 9-5er would be the best way for me to save up the capital to fulfill my dreams.

I suppose the next thing to do is put the effort out there in the directions I may pursue. I don't have to choose one or the other at the moment which makes me feel grateful-but there is the pressure of survival to think about...

Plan Ahead?

2009-03-15T18:22:00.001-04:00

Last time I posted about embracing change. It was a mopey post, and looking back on it, I realized that I had no plan of attack. I fell into a funk where changes and the future discouraged me to the point of laziness (before I even posted about my issues).
That being said I had a revelation today. Everyone around me seems to be making future plans with varied degrees of certainty. My plans are vague at best, completely uncertain, and quite unnerving. But instead of focusing on the day ahead of me, all I can look at is my obtuse horizon. By placing my focus on the future, I have neglected my present, especially my spirit and body. I realized I can overcome my laziness physically (walking, running, hiking) and spiritually (reading my Bible, praying, loving others). My mind has taken over - fear, anxiety, depression and perfectionism are the result of neglecting my body and spirit. My plan now, for embracing the future, is to keep my body, mind, and spirit in balance. Who knows what will happen? I leave it up to God.

Everything changes...nothing stays the same

2009-03-03T09:23:00.001-05:00

With spring in the air (although this cold snap is making me doubtful) I notice changes going on in peoples lives. Personally I've changed my name and account numbers, and I have to start thinking about changing houses and getting a job. Other people I know are at crossroads in their relationships. Still others are changing their ideas.
I've never been one for change. It is the one flaw in my entrepreneurial personality. I easily get comfortable once I've settled in to a routine and figured out what I'm doing. Uncertainty is extremely unsettling to me, as I'm sure it is to most people on some level. My Dad likes to say, "Being disillusioned means we've lost our illusions." Change has something to do with this saying. I realize once more, when change comes around, that my life is not in my control. Today I choose to embrace the changes around me and look forward to the future. One of my favorite Proverbs is in the 'about me' section of this blog and it is appropriate for this topic, "...She can laugh at the days to come." The reason why I titled this blog laughingjulia is really an aspiration to fulfill this proverb and in doing so get over my fear of change.

Friday again?

2009-02-20T09:03:00.000-05:00

Weeks seem to be flying past lately. I'm not sure if its good or bad. Its almost midterm but I've got some cranking to do. It always seems like in order for me to work I've got to get over myself, I wonder why that is? I'm committing to at least a drawing a day.

Truth in art and how to continue

2009-02-11T11:41:00.001-05:00

I'm holding myself accountable as an artist to speak the truth. Often times there are so many lies out there the truth is difficult to address. I find myself in this predicament more often than not. It is hard to know if you're saying something true if you're not looking at something true. That being said, my work has hit a wall. I'm not sure if I should continue with the same subjects and continue to mine truth from them, or if I should find a different avenue completely. A couple of lessons I'm learning ever so slowly at the moment:
-Drawing from real life would give my work the energy and response it needs.
-Honesty is the most important part of art
-Sometimes you have to make something bad for awhile (this is one lesson I have yet to learn because of my perpetual battle with perfectionism)
-Mediocrity is stagnant
I'm praying for a fast learning curve this week. I'm holding myself accountable to begin making work again to find a way out.

Diamond in the Rough

2009-02-04T23:06:00.000-05:00

My BFA Seminar class is required to come up with an alternative art show this semester. As a class we were challenged to think of different venues to hold our art show. We have a few working ideas right now but one of is to hold it in a foreclosed/unfinished house as a reflection of the economy. My Dad is a realtor and he has been trying to sell this house for quite some time. I went to see it yesterday and immediately saw the potential. The house originally belonged to an artist who in fact was a UCF sculpture professor named Johann Eyfell. His concrete sculptures were prominently displayed while he lived there. He was the architect and unfortunately it has fallen into some disrepair but it could easily be converted into a gallery because it is so spacious. I thought it would be a cool theme of the show to honor the history and professors that make up the UCF art department since they are the foundation we build our knowledge upon. I really hope this house works out because it has so much character and history its hard to pass it up!

I love my husband!

2009-01-31T21:21:00.001-05:00

We are baking right now and he's having so much fun! He has to bring in some brownies for a super-bowl party at work tomorrow:) I'm so proud of his hard-work, endurance and care for people. We'll see how the brownies come out!

Another topic I'm interested in

2009-01-31T20:53:00.000-05:00

Although I would like to elaborate on the subjects I talked about in my creativity and momentum post, there is one topic that I've been dealing with lately--the subject of linear versus non-linear relationships. Currently I'm enrolled in an independent study course focused on redesigning the curriculum of a core art class. Our teacher asked us to bring up creative ideas to change how we view education. I truly believe this is an opportunity to create a class based around peer student relationships instead of absolute teacher to student relationships. My thinking comes from a book I read called The Spider and the Starfish. Their idea is that America is headed for a change--a decentralized form of government, business and culture. My idea is why not education to? Especially higher education. My peers are considered legal adults yet they are treated as unexperienced children in the college classroom. I believe adults learn better from discussion, contextual learning, and the use of their peers' knowledge over the teachings of one person. I am particularly interested in what this means for society in general. How different would our world be if politics and economics were based on non-linear, humble, information-sharing relationships? My parents own a business and they choose to operate at this level. All the information they have is free to everyone, and they retain business because of the help and humility they exhibit. Their clients depend on their information as much as they depend on their clients. No one is greater in the equation. It's not a necessarily socialist point of view. It's somewhat hard to describe, but when you see it you know it. This explains better what I'm trying to explain. I would like to be a part of this change and I am excited to see what the future brings!

Where I used to live

2009-01-25T16:55:00.001-05:00

The United Kingdom, a land of funny names.

Creativity and Momentum

2009-01-21T11:26:00.000-05:00

I'm having trouble getting into my work (as I mentioned in a previous post). It's probably a number of factors such as a distracting workspace, laziness, and the presidential inauguration. All excuses aside here are a few topics that lately I think about:

-Consumerism (all types) and the effect on people (specifically Americans)
-Americans in general (again chalk it up to the political fanfare)
-Interior spaces as related to consumerism
-Interiors in general
-Real versus fake relationships, emotions, etc.
-Laziness (my own and others)

I must begin drawing again...Hopefully this time I can persevere through the self-loathing.

Bob Sanchez

2009-01-16T13:24:00.000-05:00

In my spanish class last semester we had to come up with an interview and present it to the class. Two film students did this instead:

Spanish (eh quality) from corey f on Vimeo.

I have to say that it makes me proud to go to UCF. They showed a lot of creativity for 'just a spanish project.' Also, it was a great commentary on current events.

Gran Torino

2009-01-13T10:25:00.001-05:00

This movie was completely unexpected. Clint Eastwood masters film in an old school way with a brilliant story and point of view. His generation is given a voice in today's culture. He explains issues they come to terms with in the new millennium such as cultural diversity, work ethic, violence, and the disconnect of young people within society. It holds personal meaning for me because my grandfather was a Korean War Veteran, and even though he has passed away I wonder how he would react to the changes in his own neighborhood. The movie is artful and direct. Clint Eastwood exemplifies someone who has made art his entire life and sees the fruits of his labor. Its good to know when you're committed to an art you will learn more about what you're doing the longer you work at it. I highly recommend Gran Torino!

Its my birfday

2009-01-11T11:18:00.000-05:00

By myself:( Jeff my hubby has to work because he's a firefighter.

But I might be seeing Gran Torino today!!

I'm putting off my homework which is no good. My drawing habits are anal retentive. Maybe thats why I'm having such a hard time getting going.

Here is my motivation for the day. Its hard to differentiate between subjects I'm a fan of and subjects I can sink my teeth into, but we share a common interest in the mundane aspects of interiors and exteriors. Her patterns reflect my interest in consumerism and the overwhelming amount of "stuff" created and existing everyday. The truth is I have a guilty pleasure of buying into consumerism while often times outwardly rejecting it. I want to explore this push/pull problem with my art this semester.

I think I'll do that now...

First Post

2009-01-09T10:39:00.001-05:00

I've been tempted to start a blog for quite some time and the on-set of the New Year has given me confidence to do so.

My journey is just starting in many ways. I am in my last semester of college, I just got married, and I am contemplating what job I should get once I graduate.

This semester is promising for me. I am an art student and I have a drawing class, a printmaking class and an independent study class which will all be challenging. I also am enrolled in a "how to be an artist after college class." In some ways I don't see myself becoming a full-time artist after college, but I think the later class will create a new-found ability within me.

What else to say? I want to achieve greater things this New Year. I want to work hard and discover what I have down deep.