Paper, Paper, Paper

Over time I believe that my 'smart' printer has updated itself to reflect new printer specifications. These new specs are subtle, not like printing sizes or paper orientation. More like subtleties in the quality of the images being printed to the point that I was no longer satisfied with what said 'smart' printer was creating. I've had to find new card stock that works well with my artwork, not an easy accomplishment in a time of pandemic. I like to feel paper, check it's brightness and weight, know my choices and possibilities, etc. Fortunately I have found new paper that I'm happy with and it's been a big relief. Having a 'fancy' printer that (seemingly secretly) updates itself is sort of like realizing your teenager has a whole life you don't know about. 'When did THIS happen?' 'Why wasn't I told?' 'Do I get a say in the matter?' I'm glad to be back on the same page and creating beautiful prints.

I have two new cards out and available locally at Sheepscot General Store, and always online at: www.Etsy.com/shop/GenevieveKeller. I'll have frameable prints of both available online soon. 

These two new illustrations represent two of my styles. The Poppies and Bees are what I'd call my botanical work. The Flower Fox is from my more whimsical side, possibly looking a bit like children's book illustration. I've questioned myself over time as to the effectiveness of having more than one style. Translation: successfulness. As an artist when one's work is varied will you ever be recognized for your work? Or will you confuse people? Recently, I read Lisa Congdon's book 'Find Your Artistic Voice' and I flat out got over worrying about having so many avenues of creativity. I highly recommend this book to any creative person, it was a very good read. (You will need to read this under good lighting though, the font was quite small and pale, maybe gray not black?)

I felt my Flower Fox illustration was appropriate either without words, or as any number of cards: Happy Birthday, Mother's Day, Thank You, and Thinking of You. In the end... this card is available in all the ways mentioned. Why not? She's a sweetie and she just wants to travel out into the world greeting people!

Next up? I'm working on an illustration of chickadees. Happy Spring!

Work in Progress

https://www.etsy.com/shop/GenevieveKeller

A few days ago I read about an artist who scans their sketches into a computer, and then adds color digitally. It apparently takes them a couple of hours to fully add color. The artist learned this technique in art school (college). I know this method is commonplace nowadays, and I was actually jealous... for a few moments. 

My process starts with wetting and stretching Arches hot press watercolor paper (140 lb.) onto a board, one of several boards that I have used too many times to count. This beginning is almost spiritual, like I am communing with the paper and the possibilities that lay before us both. (In case you are wondering, I too learned my method in art college.) On drawing paper, I sketch my ideas in graphite pencil and then transfer the drawing onto the (now dry) Arches paper. My 'adding color' involves days... even weeks of painting in watercolor.  My process slowly takes form through the layering of paint in a 'dry brush' fashion. Along the way this can be a give and take, sometimes removing paint to the extent it's possible with watercolor. Ideally, I have a few paintings to work on simultaneously. I find my paintings need to sit and have 'a peaceful time out' while I contemplate another painting. I can then return to each in turn with 'fresh eyes'. It works. It takes a long time. I listen to classical music and books on my phone. It's a good life. What pulls me from my work? My dog. 
 

View from my studio, February 2021

New Greeting Card Design

Here is my latest greeting card! It is adorned with this Jane Austen quote: "You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you." 

I see this as a multi-use greeting card. It could be used for an Anniversary, Birthday, Valentine, Encouragement or Friendship.

I've enjoyed hibernating in my studio while working on this card. It is truly a dark time in our nation's history.  I wish you all the best. 

Blue Snow and Custom Mitten Orders

I love the blues of winter. Not to be confused with the 'winter blues'. It's the range of blue shadows on snow I love.

I've been busy with custom mitten orders going out to New Hampshire, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. 

I'm laying low for the holidays. Just walking dogs, painting, knitting, and Zooming with family around the world. These are cozy, creative, and curious times for me here in rural Maine. 

I wish you and your family the best of health! 

(¯`v´¯)
.`•.¸.•´ ★
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(¸.•´(¸.•´ (¸.•¨¯`* ♥

Sheepscot General Holiday Pop-up Shop

 

Sheepscot General is having a Holiday Pop-up Shop this year due to Covid-19 and I'm one of the artists on display!  My artwork, cards, prints and mittens are available there thru December.  Note: I've pulled just about all of my mittens from Etsy for this Shop, so head on over to have a look.  I also have two new greeting cards, both of which are multi-Holiday appropriate and inspirational!

 

Here's a few of my new striped baby mittens (1-2 year old) now at Sheepscot General.       

Currently I'm working on several custom mitten orders.  These little red owls went to a kiddo who's favorite color is red!

 

Lastly, here's a sunrise view from  my studio. ~Peace~