The Frugal.Artiste

We've Moved On

2011-10-02T16:29:00.000-07:00

Hi All;

Many changes have taken place over the last little while and i am going with the flow...Its been a great two years documenting my life as Artist in Residence here in my virtual studio!!!

Thanx so much for following this journey and i invite u along on my latest life journey..

come on over and check out my new digs..............

www.casasanctuary.com

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

I'm Leaving On A Jet Plane................

2011-09-12T10:58:00.000-07:00

Well this is it...I am moving on...its been a full journey preparing to go forward to realize the dream of living in Mexico.My gal pal Joyce moved down to Puerto Vallarta (4 hours from where i will live) on the 10th of September and I am next to take off.

What I can say is that my remaining time here has been full of reflection although feeling displaced which will be replaced with culture shock soon enough...I finally took the plunge and booked my ticket(had others booked but kept changing dates as i wasn't ready with the many tasks that had to be addressed)..almost a month later than i had planned to go.but my move was a big one not to be rushed through and the time to take cleansing breaths.

Exhausted in mind,body and spirit after I left Harrsion Hot Springs and still things to do in a place of limbo,more prep for self and Kasper.

Well its all done except the many good-byes,hugs,well wishes and so on...So folks I am leaving on a jet plane and don't know when i will be back again..Stay tuned for the first newsletter from Mexico....Coming soon.....

Hasta Luego

Till We Meet Again

Rhonda

Rhonda and Kasper have left the Building.....

2011-08-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

Howdy All;

After two years of creativity as Artist In Residence at Ranger Station Art Gallery..I have moved on!!!

its sad on one hand but there have been many rewards from this experience and the wonderful connections that were made.Realizing a living dream of a live/work space while exercising and challenging my creative skills..How fantastic is that..

I will miss the sounds of the boats on the water,the serenity and the beautiful landscape.Its been alot of work since May to downsize for my next dream.....MEXICO!! yeah babies. but things to do and some people to see before i blast off.

The packing etc was not the only things that was being tackled at the casa,I'd been asked to create a piece for an upcoming workshop in Hope on racism...so without further intro here is my piece called "Jungle Fever"

Jungle Fever speaks to ongoing racism that consistently is dialogued throughout the world.

This Mixed Media piece addresses how multi layered racism is. The black and white flowers are pretty like flowers are,however ones perspective can be the black and white of the subject matter(or is it) or just enjoy the flowers ignoring what the obvious issue is.

The Jungle Fever piece is busy not quite knowing where the viewer should begin..there are little stories and many subtleties throughout the piece.

Eeny Meeny Miny Moe..We have all heard this one from our childhood,trying to catch a Negra by its toe.

My Picture..The words written across my face are associated with the many names/labels that blacks have been called throughout ages.

I am black,no i am colored,no i am a person of color,no i am dirty,no i am a negra,no i am Afro Canadian and so on etc.

Black Market..Racism continues in the 21st century to be about those that are in power as to how its addressed,truly one can buy anything on the black market including persons of color.

As we the world progresses,there is much fanfare "to deal" with and put and end to racism.We are not even close but further away as technology replaces face to face contact allowing society to use a computer as a front to racism.

Jungle Fever digs,touches and confronts the assault of racism on this artist as a black,colored,person of color.

Lights,Camera....ACTION!!!

2011-08-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

Since i came out regarding my intentions of making Mexico home...the journey has proven to be eventful inside and out..The amount of prep work is staggering and i am only moving me and Kasper.Interestingly enough my gal pal Joyce is also making a move to Mexico although her transition is to Puerto Vallarta we've been a support for each other as we step outside the familiar.

There is always more than enough room for learning about self when major life decisions are made, again i see exactly what i am made of. The doors are beginning to close here, there isn't a sadness but an excitement of uncharted territory,the gypsy explorer is ready for another adventure.

I've always been a risk taker and this is just another one to do. Resourceful has been a life walk for me however its not easy as in this case it would have been a whole lot easier to have piles of money to throw at every aspect of this move,this is not the case for me or the way(sigh) I've had to employ a hell of alot of faith and trust plus the support from friends during those dark moments as i hang on the side of the cliff...

Did u know that i have a huge fear of heights? however i have lived much of my life in a literal/abstract sense on the edge as i adventure into one thing or another..Some may think its foolish or is it soul -full,but u have to figure that out for who u are.

One foot in front of the other is truly easier said then done..This last month I've delighted in planned and spontaneous times with friends..I've loved every visit with you.

The several loose ends will get tied up this week,then its a wee bit of decompression and Blast Off.....Pretty soon I'm gonna jump right off that cliff with THE ACTION BEING(holy shit) , my heart in my mouth and without a parachute..its all Angel Wings Baby lol lol

The card in the pic picked this morning Stay In Your Own Skin is from the deck Trust Your Vibes Oracle Cards(Sonia Choquette)

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Play-Full Times

2011-08-12T17:34:00.000-07:00

Hola Dear Readers;

Summer continues to grace us with its presence...Thank Goddess!!! gotta love the blue skies and heat..Looking about the Casa and studio there is space,space on the walls,open floor space. Let me tell u its a concept having all of this free space.. Has it sunk in that very soon i am outta here.....NO! there is much to do yet before i can close the door here and walk on,However my to do me in list grows shorter by the day..

The packing and getting rid of has felt endless but as of Tuesday the studio is completely cleared out,now its the packing of my personal art collection,suitcases, figuring out storage .Well i am sure u get the picture.Life here consists of more than prep for Mexico,I'm having play-full times hanging with friends,enjoying my backyard space,dinners and much more.This time i am opting out of a going away party so its catch me if u can,if not till we meet again...

Today was a playdate,it was a blast as i facilitated my gal pals Monica and Irene in spontaneous intuitive painting,the setting was bootiful in my backyard on the water with the boats in the background and Loreena Mckenna singing away.The gals were testing a workshop out that i want to facilitate in Mexico called " Losing your Senses"

Losing Your Senses

By freeing ourselves from the intimidation that many of us feel about painting, Intuitive Painting is a way to create art that is fun. It encourages spontaneous artistic expression. No previous artistic experience is necessary. Each of us is unique and will discover the painting process in their own way, expressing our own perspective through painting with and without all of our senses and traditional tools.

Willingness to be playful and open-minded is the fundamental driving force for intuitive painting. The principle is simple: ground yourself in awareness, ease, and let your inner source guide you. Who cares how you mark up a page, as long as your marks are created from your inner-spirit?

During this four week Intuitive painting PlayShop series, we will approach painting from a fun new perspective as we take away one of our taken-for-granted senses. Based on the age-old monkey story, we will explore intuitive painted by removing our reliance on one sense each week to express (paint) our own unique story.

Last Sunday was Andy Tuckers Artist reception called "Heads Up" this is a very diverse one woman show and her many creative mediums that she does,interestingly enough her 3D works consists of trash from the bush,this show has bought some challenges from the viewers perspective it comes down to u really love it or can't stand it. so definitely its thought and feeling provoked art.

The arts council,community residents and supporters surprised me with a going away send off here at the gallery i was completely floored somewhat speechless(not for long) lol lol it was very touching and certainly the reality hit home that the hour glass will turn over soon.

The next artist in Residence Aaron M. will be incoming with new creative perspective and i am happy and ready to pass the torch on.So my readers its time to say so long for now..as always good to see ya..

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

Thank You to Megan,Pam,Crystal,Laurie,Leah,Nonni,Petra,Luchia,Ed,Brian for your help in dump runs,packing,garage sale help,etc and so on and if i have forgotten to name u here Thank You sooooooooooooo much for your support..I am very grateful!!

Plan Not To Plan

2011-07-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

Hola Amiga's and Amigo's;

I'm somewhat close to being ready to launch into my new life although when u look about its utter chaos around here.

There has been lots of learning that I've gained from choosing to move on from Canada,some of that learning has been downright emotional..guess u are getting the picture that my heart is open and i am totally exposed this is what is called wide open people.

Life is an ongoing journey, now I'm not saying its been smooth sailing,there have been some ruts that I've tumbled into from time to time and Murphy's law has come a knocking for short visits.

Plan not to Plan is a fitting title for this posting as i had a master moving plan and boy it was pretty everything right down to the detail..In my head it ebbed and flowed my plan with beautiful classical music playing quietly in the background,OK well now lets talk about the reality.

1. I live in a rural location well if that's not enough there are no service pick ups out here. OK there is but at outrageous prices.

2. there is one of me

3. I have way too much crap( I'm past using the word stuff or treasures as this shit is outta here..gone is the attachment)

4. I have the worst stairs in the world quite steep.

5.International moves have different requirements in packing

6. The what the hell do i do with the stuff I'm keeping(way way less then when i started out)

7. Good Boxes cost money!!!

8. The reality of flying with a pet( holy!! this is a whole post in itself)

9. The ideal of thinking I'll meet my outta of here timeline...... right!!!

and so on etc............

So my initial plan has been shot by the reality of the actual day to day plan...That's the downside of my present reality...There is an upside its called the unexpected...

1. The help time from friends and goddess knows I've needed it...its manifested in so many ways

2. Gifts and surprises( ugh my tear ducts are working )

3. Pick me ups....I've needed to be picked up several times when i have hit the wall and now especially when i am almost to the finish line...phone calls,face to face visits

4. Reality Checks...no shortage of those and u know who u are!!!

5. REALLY!!! The LOVE AND HONOUR from so many of ya...

So the plan was thrown out the window awhile back and now i am free flowing emotions and all...so no worries if u see me mumbling away to myself,looking all intense, moving at a faster pace then normal...Let me go cause i am on a Mission making my way to Mexico on Manana (meaning: Tomorrow) time

Signed;

Learning and Loving Rhonda

Pics....
1.beautiful necklace from my friend Violette made by her

2.My lucky Catcus, my friend Cindy made for me..."People Love to Give Me Money"

3. Kasper boxed and ready to go

The Art Of Detachment

2011-07-18T14:18:00.001-07:00

Hi Y'all

The sun is shining...this morning I was chatting with a friend when she said to me "I hear the detachment in your voice" hmm this was pondered when walking and sitting by the lake...what was interesting about this conversation yes I am detaching my feet are in two directions waiting for soon they will point the same way at the same time.

I feel the detachment but have no idea what it sounds like...although its been in practice since the decision was made to call Mexico home. The days of interaction are much like the last post,its about the clearing out,letting go and detaching from it all here. Let me say ya never know when my tears well up with vulnerabilities rising and the menopause can not be used as an excuse,goddess knows I've tried lol lol lol.This is big stuff but as the words are written into this posting its all good. Moving about has been part of my life however this is the second biggest clearing out process that I've undertaken.

I am now at the point with the remaining stuff that I want you to just take it...remembering several months back when my mentor suggested that I give away all my old artwork(not my personal collection) she did not come close to me agreeing, I was horrified,defensive and full of resistance..

The universe has a funny way of making one listen as three times from friends they uttered " looks like you will be traveling quite light" with a snort I dismissed that sage advice until very recently when I felt utterly trapped within all of this stuff,when the time is right there are shifts and so I shifted allowing much of the stuff to lead me especially the art pieces to where it would reside and it truly has been a beautiful experience.How happy I am knowing that what I once loved has been embraced by others that feel the connection its been humbling and insightful.

I am truly near ready to walk on into new life feeling free from old stuff to me new to u....the clear spaces has me awe struck. The hardest part of letting go is the beginning and then in my humble opinion its all uphill from there. I feel like a new and improved person trying on,doing and being detachment..its something that has definite advantages of living life.

I am detachment!!

In Loving Detachment;

Rhonda

Staying on The Path...............

2011-06-25T07:20:00.001-07:00

Howdy Readers;
Well here I am not at Casa Sanctuary but another Casa my friends who reside in Calgary Alberta...This time out was planned awhile back and now that i am here i can't even begin to tell u how wonderful and needed it is. My friends embraced me with love and i felt i was in my second home..life has been hectic with all the many things that need to be attended to with moving to Mexico,I feel so affected on all levels very emotional as time is moving me towards launching into a new homeland and life...

I am walking a path of choice and its been very interesting far from smooth walking oh the number of small and large potholes I've fallen into...... SHIT!
this walk is not easy people,places and situations all pop up on my path and want ok really demand my attention right now (sigh) it all began with the cleanup process in the studio as its the biggest pack up to tackle,well everything plus that i was aware of and not came up inside me,I was an emotional mess..for those of u who know me ya know that i keep much of my stuff close to myself but when your clearing out in the physical sense (material goods) up comes emotional stuff and ya gotta deal cause its not going away. This is a hard and big transition in my life cause i truly do feel i am going HOME. Time to settle down for awhile all this moving over the last number of years has taken its toll on me.

In Harrison Hot Springs there is a beautiful little path that is very much about beauty,it offers up the beauty of nature,beauty of inner peace and outer peace, and the topper is that Ernie a local artist has used this path as his canvas well to be exact the trees..On random trees are clay masks...BEAUTIFUL!!! and delightful.. at the end of this path is a circle of joy in my opinion anyway it is the circle of women all women masks..

This timeout well i try to walk the path daily it brings me peace,joy and balance....its a reminder of my walk onward in life...I hope for those of u that walk or read of my ongoing journey , maybe u may find your own path or come to Harrison Hot Springs and enjoy this walk. Thanx for showing up and being here.. U Rock!!!

P:S this particular mask is my fave in the pic above...

Signed; Chilling

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Upcoming Workshop

2011-05-31T15:35:00.000-07:00

WORKSHOP: Lighten Up

Lamp making workshop

Have you wondered what one could do with those outdated chandeliers & lamps that no longer hold space in your home despite the fact that they are all the rage in the vintage shops,yes they do have good bones on one hand but on the other they are downright ugly...

Lighten Up is all about reinventing the old into something new. This workshop starts with the basics, each participant is given a kit with diverse items that will begin the process of rebuilding right down to the lampshade.

Participants will also learn how to wire a lamp.

June 18th.......10:00 am -4:00pm

Mission Arts Centre

33529 First Avenue,
Mission, B.C. V2V 1H1
on the corner of Catherwood

Workshop outside if weather permitting otherwise in multipurpose room of Arts Centre.

$75.00 includes Lamp Kit....if you would like to add certain fabrics,paints,odds and ends to your lamp then by all means bring it.

Please Bring a bag lunch or restaurants etc are within driving/walking distance.

Mission Arts Centre also operates a Tea Room which will be open 1:00 pm-4:00 pm

Pre-Registration and Payment are required to reserve your spot

Cheques are payable to:

Rhonda Simmonds

P.O.Box 383

Harrison Hot Springs,BC

V0M 1K0

PayPal is also available,please let me know and I can send you an invoice for payment..Please Note that there a $1.50 service charge added to registration fee.

In Need of more information.....Rhonda Email: alteredanything at shaw dot ca

Solemate Reception Part 3

2011-05-17T13:29:00.001-07:00

Ok here are the last of the pics i will put up on the reception,it truly was a blast and i loved adding the extra touches that made it special in my opinion..Well from here we move on to wrapping up my time here in Harrison Hot Springs and my two year residency..I finish here in August not sure of the date but am working on that. Thank You again for stopping by the reception,thanx for the lovely gifts,the phone calls,email all of it makes a big difference.. Have a great long weekend..May the sunshine all over u...

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Solemate Reception Part 2

2011-05-15T13:42:00.000-07:00

Hi All;
Here are pics from the May 7th reception..it was a magical day..DJ'S added music throughout the day and evening. Homemade Chocolates in the shape of boots and purses made by Crystal,custom Pink and Black Cupcakes with buttons on top, A Shoe Pinata made by Krystin filled with yummy suckers and funky pins. A full food table and chocolate fountain.

It truly was a fun filled day I wanted to give back and say thanx for the support. more pics to come in Part 3..

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

SoleMate Reception Part 1

2011-05-10T10:26:00.000-07:00

The day of the show outside was overcast with bursts of rain but inside it was all sunshine!!! I am beyond exhausted at this writing so it will be brief and I will return with pics from the reception next week.

An artist is not an island unto themselves...I have many people that have my gratitude for bringing Solemate into real time,Thank You so much for making Saturday such a big success!!! It truly does take a community to support an artist..How blessed I am...Please stay tuned for the picture and story updates next week.

There were many that came out on Saturday and I so appreciate that...Throughout the last several months I have been asked countless times where to next Rhonda? and so I made an announcement at the reception that I will be creating my homebase in MEXICO at the end of August 2011 more on that will come in upcoming blog posts...I had hoped to tell u face to face but here it is...

stay tuned for a new newsletter in the next week if u are not subscribed(Ann u are subscribed) then drop me an email and I will add u.

The above pic is a small part of the many displays of the Solemate show and Kasper is hanging about...The show continues until May 29th 2011 hours of operation are Mon-FRI 9:00- 4:00 PM Sat & Sun 1:00- 5:00pm

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

The hanging of an Art Installation

2011-05-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

My People, My People
Well here I am days from my show...YIKES!!! so many details to take care of so i am on creative speed its a natural high here at Casa Sanctuary.. The thing about an installation is that every piece has a place and its not always where i want it..Sunday was the major install of the foundation after 6 hours of work literally i crawled upstairs to the tub and then bed..Thanx to my team u all rock couldn't have managed without ya. Today will be a long day and evening as i complete the set up.

I hope that u can make it on Saturday for the reception it will be a fun time and i will be done YAHOO AND AWOMYN!!

Ok folks gotta go,i leave u with glimpses... I am flitting about and the person behind the camera

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Tick Tock

2011-04-19T08:55:00.000-07:00

How Do You? this is a short sweet post to update you all about the going ons here in the studio and casa..its total creative chaos!!!! I am totally down to the wire and got hit with unwellness so kinda pushing myself to the finish line right now...

Some of my pieces are large and heavy so they don't fit in the studio plus adding a back injury trying to get those suckers up those stairs isn't happening.

This puts me in a place of having to work off site like in Mission 45 minutes away,with my energy being extremely low right now, just gotta suck it up and move on down the road..

I leave u with some behind the scenes pics of the creative chaos here at alteredanything studio..I don't know about u but I am looking forward to a party.Oh yes party the invites are out did u receive yours? if your interested in signing up for my monthly newsletter let me know.....Please send an email to alteredanything@shaw.ca

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

1&2......Invite!!!!
3.Shoes...............
4.studio chaos
5. more shoes
6.the making of a pinata by Krystin
7.Solemate Sign completed

The Finish Line...........

2011-04-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hi All;

Hello from my overflowing studio..I am much closer to the deadline/finishline with one month plus days to go...Actually its going well with production...The challenge that faces me is it's a different art show from last year...This is a story show somewhat and many parts of the story will be throughout the gallery..

The space sets the tone and then by way of the final installation/setup which takes up to three days the story unfolds with many tweaks. As u have noticed i haven't shared much of this show with u here. Installation i think may be something for me to explore from this experience,one thinks way differently because there are so many parts which are not necessarily contained.gotta say this is fun mind u at this point I am art and its very consuming. Time out when i do push myself is important in maintaining some sort of inner/outer balance.

I believe that it takes a community to support an artist , I have been so grateful to be the recipient of those diverse blessings. As the studio hums and groans with a overflow of creativity,here i sit my hands creating ,my mind thinking,pausing,reflecting over the last 1.5 years here...soon it will be time to pack up and move on but for now i am savoring every minute of this living dream..Thanx so much for sharing this journey with me..its been creatively righteous!!!

On March 26th I had the pleasure of teaching a workshop called "A Chair of Her Own"in Hope BC now the title speaks for itself its about a chair,however what i really like when i teach is that people do what is in their comfort zone so for some a chair wasn't in their future but creativity was. My teaching style is pretty hands off I follow the premise that creativity leads however it manifests and as the facilitator i follow, its something that has worked well for me and the participants. The workshop was a full day and the outcomes were very kewl as everyone put their mark on chairs or....

The day ended and i had the pleasure of staying at Billie's and her family home (hope) for the night,it was awesome the day and evening and i felt so lucky for these experiences.

Billie and her family are Artists so being in their home was awesome cause very much like my home its an artist space up close and personal. There is a magazine called studios which is full color pages of Artist studios the thing about this is that its all staged for me that's not real...What was real was being smack in the middle of my friends live/work home and it was validation for the life that chose me.

Yes i do now have wheels which helps as being close to the finish line which helps in running for little things here and there.

My "little button"(Olivia)is now 5 months old...yikes time moves quickly...Its a studio day here at Casa Sanctuary so i am off...Rock On!!!

Picture Talk:

1. Funky Shoes on the wall of Hope Art Machine Art Centre

2-4. pieces by yours truly for my show "Solemate"

5.Shiny signage

6.participant from "A Chair Of Her Own"

7. Inside Hope Art Machine

8. grandmother and grandaughter creativity(grandaughter's name was Taylor)

9. workshop creativity

10. The workshop group

11. crossing a bridge in Harrison Hot Springs(my walk about)

Sign of the times..

2011-03-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

Now Showing at the gallery:

Soul Archaeology

What has been great about being the past 1.5 yrs is seeing some of the art.. and i have a few faves..this particular show is one of my all time faves since I've been here..its a family show,husband,wife and daughter all hail from Hope BC..There are a number of pieces i would be happy to have adorn my sanctuary..the show is on until the end of March here at the gallery in Harrison Hot Springs we're open 7 days a week...Come on down..The pics that i have attached will speak for themselves...

Greetings Readers;

It always amazes me how as a world humility is presented to us..this time its Japan that asks for our awareness and support..A call came yesterday from a friend that has family in a part of Japan that was touched by some of the fallout...although they are ok my friends family members..The worry is still there...I was asked to light a candle for which I did as I walked to my altar to add another white candle with others already burning. The phone has rung many times in the last two weeks for the lighting of candles and energy to be sent out. My altar is working overtime these days. I am still without a car,some think I am stranded out here..to a point yes but on the other hand I feel that the lighting of the candles on my altar is where I'm needed right now instead of being out and about. This has been a good time to delve deep into my art practice and spirituality as they've become one.

Many aspects of my show are coming into being,its scary some moments and then other moments I boogie about in the delight of discovery within and out. The last week has been the rediscovery of connecting with nature between snow and rain periods,the walks separates the feelings from poor old me without a car,a camera that is being pushed beyond its boundaries and just life shit. I am grateful for the work that has been accomplished with my life coach.Time is ticking as my deadline is quickly approaching,not quite sure what my blessings are in all of this,although for now the challenge(s) continue to present themselves in various forms and I put one foot in front of the other going forward.

Today gazing out at the lake from downstairs in the gallery(its a workday),the door opens with the arrival of my new sign for my May show... I am delighted with the outcome of this new sign..

My Thanx goes out to Ernie for his creativity. Thanx so much Ernie, Irene,Billie& Elsie for crossing the threshold of the gallery today..Well its almost closing time in the gallery, as I make my way up the stairs with my sign in my arms and kasper close on my heels, I enter my studio world lovingly placing my sign down on a cleared spot on the work table..hurrying to get into work clothes wanting to place my mark on my sign. The cd player is turned on with another new audio book playing in the background sitting in my chair readying to zone into my work.

The heart is full doing what I love and so I will say so long for now as I tackle the Sign of the Times...I send blessings from Casa Sanctuary..

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

Pics:

1.Sign for Show..SOLEMATE

2. Collage clock for show

3.audio books

4. Chair for the show

5-8. These faboo pieces are called "Atomatons" from the Soul Archaeology Show at gallery

9-12. Soul Archaeology Pieces

Alter Any Thing and Show update

2011-03-03T09:53:00.001-08:00

Well life goes on and so will the show..7.5 weeks to go before I complete my exit show as the present Artist in Residence.The shout out will go out soon check out their website if u have an interest...I must say its done me the world of good as an artist..my experience and skill level has certainly expanded.

http://kentharrisonartscouncil.org/

Its been an interesting time here at the Sanctuary as life is life...Thank goddess for life coaches and friends!! ok where to start lets see my camera is down and out although with enough babying I've been able to push it along..but alas I did order another one and that has been the gong show..so no new camera yet...then there is my car yep that had its enough last Thursday and yesterday morning I let it go to be altered/recycled into something different. it was a good ride for almost 4 years that gypsy car and I went many places..Yep definitely I am in need of another car but for the now my friend is lending me her van a couple days a week.

Finally I am grooving and moving with the new show "Soulmate" can one be giddy about art shows..well this gal is..The Harrison Hot Springs are alive with the sound of creativity,lets all put our hands together. Delegating aspects of the show to others takes pressure off from me having to do everything. Thanx Megan,Krystin,Kevin,Jamie,Pam,Ernie. I will leave u with little glimpses of what's happening behind the scenes here at the Sanctuary..Due to the fact that I am swamped I'll get back to u when I can...Oh by the way my little button is now 4 months old..where does the time go...Rock on in the creative world...

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

catch me if u can..............

2011-02-10T08:55:00.001-08:00

Howdy partners,

thought i would drop in and give ya an update.....Life is on a higher speed here at the sanctuary as various deadlines have passed and more are looming in front of me.

I have returned to the gallery working on the weekends....so life is gonna be pretty full for awhile,adding to that is the work I've been doing with my life coach...

My digital camera gave up last week and i have another one making its way to me as I type Thank Goddess for online ordering when u live in a small town.... My camera is an all important tool in my daily life so feeling a tad exposed without it .I am working slowly but surely on my next upcoming show material as the countdown is on......I have many large props to create for this show.Many of the props will be for sale. The past month has flown by me kinda hard to catch my breath.There are certain mediums that i will be adding into my art practice that will show up in the "SoleMate Show".

The studio is humming with creative projects in progress, I have felt so blessed this past year and half ,living and being a realized dream.its been joyful with alot of hard work thrown in. Believe me when i say that most times i was flying by the seat of my pants as i jumped into many unknowns. The studio is my place to be a mad creative alchemist when i walk in that space ideas swirl about in the head but the creative spirit leads me about the studio.

So its time to settle in for the next couple of months and bring this show to a completion that also will be close to the end of my residency of two years.

The call for a new Artist in Residence goes out March 1st,2011. They begin September 1st I finish August 31st,2011. I am ready to move on and take a break from creative deadlines, creativity will still be for me but SoleMate will be the last show for a couple of years as i develop,research some key signature pieces and just rest!!! That i look forward to...The next many months will be about endings,closing doors and stepping into the next Rhonda adventure,as soon i know what i am doing u will get a heads up. I leave with u today with a 3 month picture of my divine "button" Olivia and also a shoe altar for SoleMate...See ya soon

In Artistic Solidarity ;

Rhonda

Peek A Boo......

2011-01-24T09:11:00.001-08:00

Howdy Readers;

I am in the zone ok well translated focusing!!! January is stepping by and soon it will February and a full on schedule..YIKES!!! Life has been a roller coaster here at the Sanctuary as its taken awhile for me to get connected. The feeling has been overwhelm for a good part of January which just paralyzes the hell out of ya.

Its been timely to have engaged a life coach as I am constantly gaining perspective from one angle or another. Yesterday was a good coaching day as I was able to dump the junk rolling around in my head and come full circle to give myself a reality check. (Thanx Coach) So today is a good day can we say CLEAR!!! in fact I feel damn right refreshed and ready to roll but with a pace in my step. So life as an artist has many facets to it as I learn every time I tackle or take on something new.

Alrighty then lets move along into what's cooking here at the old sanctuary.As many of u know 2006-2008 I did a public art project called Outsider Art In A Box using repurposed(by artists) sanitary pad vending machines to dispense small works of art. This project was facilitated by yours truly with the support of many artists while residing in Vancouver.

The vending machines have been collecting dust until recently, new life has come into this project Thanx to Hope Art Gallery & Mission Arts Centre as they will both host machines. Diane Ferguson (Hope) Nancy Arcand(Mission) will be facilitating Outsider at above locations, freeing me up to pursue other projects.
The long range goal for the machines is to be put on permanent display in my own live/work gallery.

The next couple of weeks I am putting my office/studio together in Mission putting myself out there while building up clientele. so the two pics are my office/studio space before ,the after is a coming soon.

If your in the area take a workshop or schedule a private session....I see ya scratching your head thinking none to quietly..what do I do??? I am inviting u to take a look at my website. www.alteredanything.ca

As of February 1st,2011 I am on lockdown meaning (except for one trip possibly for some baby love) that I am working between three areas Harrison Hot Springs, Agassiz and Mission putting together a show,working in the school,workshops,clients,gallery hours,.I will return phone calls ,emails in a timely manner.

Alteredanything Studio Workshops:Mission Arts Centre(top floor)

A Chair Of Her Own:

(18+)

“Virginia Wolfe” stated that women should have a space of their own in which to write however all women deserve personal space to do with what they wish.This creative workshop is about creating something for self whether it be functional or decorative. A chair of one’s own is transportable and can begin the process of setting the tone for your space whether your chair has its own room or a corner. Through use of paint, collage, stencils, found objects, fabric,etc. Lets begin to empower a chair space of your own.The chair and diverse art materials are supplied. A list of additional supplies required will be given upon registration.Please bring your imagination, open mind, sense of humour. These things are as important as the supplies we use.No Art Experience Necessary.

3 sessions: January 25th,February 1st,February 8th 2011

7:00pm-9:00pm

Members: $110 Non Members $115

Vision Board (18+)

What do you hope, dream for? What are your goals? Vision boards are fun and powerful creative tools. Creating a visual buffet by Using words and images, they express our desires and dreams, making it easier for us to bring our full thoughts into creative visual intention.This is a relaxed workshop with minimal structure that affords a friendly inviting space for you to create a vision board.Basic Art Supplies are supplied and I ask that you bring additional magazines. Please bring your imagination, open mind, sense of humour. These things are as important as the supplies we use. No Art Experience Necessary.

1 Session February 11th 7 – 9pm

February 22 nd 1 to 3 pm

Cost $20.00

Tarot Workshop

Using a deck of 52 playing cards, we will be begin collaging and magically transforming the cards to a mystical (and completely personalized) divination tool. Combining intuition, personal symbolism, and tradition, this deck will prove to be a helpful for self reflection or journaling.

All materials will be provided, however if you have particular images you would like to use, or unused/unwanted magazines that could be used for collage images, please consider bringing them along. Please note that not all 52 cards will be transformed within the workshop.

February 4th,2011

6:00 pm-9:00 pm

3 Hours

$20.00

For more info regarding above workshops or to book a private session please contact me at:alteredanything@shaw.ca

Art On

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

P;S.....thought ya might like some new babe pics....

Ready,Set.......Action

2011-01-11T14:05:00.000-08:00

Ok All quiet down on the set.....At times my life feels like an action movie,don't get me wrong its evolving to be my dreams and that's a wonderful thing...

Happy Newest Year..Life is in take off mode here in the Sanctuary the holidays were good especially that unexpected trip to Mexico..hanging with friends embracing the quality time is just righteous and priceless. I have 8 months left of my 2nd year residency here in Harrison Hot Springs,just reacquainted myself with a new daytimer 2011 dates are filling up...This is gonna be a brief blog but have no fear there is more coming.

As many of u know I have an office/studio space in Mission which is 45 minutes from Harrison, I set up there as part of phasing myself out of here. The space is for workshops and private creative one to one sessions,there are appointments open so give it some thought ,u can stroll on over to my website www.alteredanything.ca and see what services are available.. Please stay tuned for upcoming workshops which I will post end of week early next week.

The posted pic is an intuitive painting I did on Solstice.(Click on for larger image)

Coming up also on the blog is an introduction to my new solo show in May 2011.Well folks that's all she wrote...

Take good care and see ya sooner rather than later..

My words for 2011 are:

resilience

imagination

spirit

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Happy Solstice!!!!

2010-12-21T09:51:00.000-08:00

Dearest Family and Friends........

Today is Winter Solstice,a lunar eclipse and the first day of winter...really could the universe pack anymore in....Today is the day I meditate and reflect on my past year.Today is my day all day to honor myself in meditation. I will meditate in movement (walking) I will meditate in Sitting at my altar ,I will meditate in creativity( I am doing an intuitive painting) Today I will Meditate!!!!

I just got back recently from a trip to Mexico (Puerto Vallarta) it was a good time in so many ways it felt like home....This gift was unexpected from my gal pal Joyce who really wanted me to go to Mexico as it had been two years since I had been back. When I walked off that plane and stepped onto Mexico soil my arms lifted and my mouth opened with the words I'm back! Mexico and I warmly embraced.

It was a whirlwind of delight...the sounds,colors,the people all touched me and I walked on like I never left 2 years back....Joyce and I had never traveled together but let me tell u my friend was a true delight to be with...we laughed daily,we talked and talked deepening our friendship...There were many reunions with old friends in Puerto Vallarta and made new ones also....I would walk into familiar places and would be remembered by name it was as if it was yesterday that I was just there.

There is something about Mexico that touches my soul deeply and I now know that it will a part of my future in some way, as it develops I will let u know. The past year has been an interesting journey. Losses and Gains have been part and parcel.. with death( the passing of Taylor's dad ,my ex husband who I knew for 27 years) there comes life the birth of my little button Olivia. Another creative year of residency awarded to me. The passing of my beloved familiar Shadow(cat) and then the blessing of Kasperian (cat) My first solo art show July 2010. The Sanctuary this past year became a stop for many. My word for 2010 was Create and that I have done in so many diverse ways.

Thank-You for your support,friendship, family ties,love,encouragement,cards,emails,letters,gifts,patience,sharing and caring....Thank You!!!

As the holidays rush upon us,I would like to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of u Happy Solstice and Blessed Holidays!!! From my Sanctuary to yours.....See u in 2011

xoxox

Rhonda

P:S..I ended up not feeling well the day before i left Mexico and then got slammed big time with a cold when i got home,just getting back on my feet..but taking it easy...

Pics:

1. Happy Holidays from Olivia

the remaining pics are from Mexico..enjoy

Art -Full

2010-12-04T16:12:00.000-08:00

Hello Dear readers;

Thanx for dropping in to see what adventures I am up to.....I've been back at the Sanctuary now for about two weeks from my trip that welcomed my granddaughter into the world..Olivia is already a month old...how time flies and even more so with this new little life.

I arrived home to plunging temperatures and incoming snow..The creative plate runneth over as I prepare to go forward into 2011. In January I add another delicacy to my plate,this time the commitment of working with a life coach that will assist me in evolving my creative vision,there is already homework to be done before the end of this shrinking year. There are many tasks ahead for me coming up more on that in later posts.

Today as I write this from my toasty workplace at the Ranger Station Gallery,its the first hopefully annual Passport Art Crawl,many people have crossed over the threshold,several first timers into this gallery.There is an air of excitement despite the chilled airs outside.

The Art Crawl here in Harrison Hot Springs Village has bought out a number of locals that normally don't otherwise shop or browse many of the participating crawl locations,with refreshments,door prizes it has enticed participants from outside these areas so all in all day one has been a success. Kasper has even hung out in the gallery to greet the visitors.

I am off on another adventure next week this time its Mexico.Yep after two years I am heading back to where my Mexico Journey began(Pureto Vallarta)........ My gal pal Joyce and I are off for fun,loads of Sun and can we all put our hands together for Margaritas!!!! So I will sign off for now but will be back all tanned,inspired and chilled!!!

Adios;

Rhonda

Pictures:

1.The Divne Olivia at Thanksgiving(American) On November 30th she turned 1 month old

2.Kasper hanging in the Gallery to greet visitors for the Art Crawl 2010

3.Home Sweet Home now on display at Ranger Station Art Gallery....created from garbage thrown in and about Chilliwack River.... Artist: Andy Tucker

4&5. Harrsion passport for Art Crawl December 4&5 2010

6. Marilyn from Vancouver came to pick up her piece December 4th entitled"Full Moon" created by yours truly.this was a piece she purchased from my show "Divergence" July 2010.

7&8. Repurposed tree ornaments created by ACE students Thursday/Friday December 2&3

No Fussing,No Cussing

2010-11-17T08:20:00.000-08:00

I am still here in Fort Meade,Maryland ..however the sand in the hourglass is slowly running out,soon it will be time to wind my way back to Casa Sanctuary. This past weekend I had a faboo time with my friend Bubba D(Daniel) in New Jersey and New York.

Pulling myself away from my little button was difficult..but the creative call was strong so off i went.My intention was to take the Amtrak Train to New Jersey since it was a easy 2.5 hour ride,it wasn't meant to be dollar wise as the close to three hundred dollar return trip price tag was far from my budget..so i chose the no frill 5 hour Greyhound Bus Ride.

Greyhound never disappoints in a good ride. I make my way to DC to catch the bus for 12:30pm..exiting from the DC Union metro station. There large as life is a beautiful red high heeled shoe, I laugh out loud well ya see I've been struggling somewhat with connecting to my next solo show content and the universe smacked me right upside the head with big red shoe!!!! Ding,Zing my creative mind is in full wake up mode and i know I've arrived.

The title of this blog came from my first leg of my trip on Greyhound with Driver Dwayne. The itinerary is laid out along with bus rules one of those being cell phones",Keep your cell phones on vibrate, Keep your conversations on the downlow and remember when u are on the phone none of us want to here you so remember No Fussing, No Cussing"

Its Friday and people are traveling about for the weekend,the bus was semi packed upon arrival in Baltimore i was aware that this particular journey was gonna be full,I'm situated in the back hoping that just maybe the seat next to me would remain empty,as i look up down the aisle sideways well hmm a linebacker (my visual observation of him) plunks himself beside me then inquires as to if i have enough room. We have a chat that linebacker and I and he's from the Bronx and is curious about me from Canada,now let me tell ya this guy was edgey with manners quite a combo but i sensed that a strong mama instilled those manners in him... Finally overtime greyhound pulls into New Jersey station right in the middle of rush hour!!!!

Daniel and I are in take off mode to his studio for which i am excited about...The building that Daniels studio is in is a federal building so security is tight. The funny thing is that down a hall from the studios are the Immigration offices..hmm creativity and immigration now that pushes the imagination lol lol..

Daniel in my opinion is a very talented artist,his medium is Text and his abilities to use it in different ways which is a huge example of the most recent work of his that i wanted to see up close and personal.When i saw this Text Mural it was overwhelming but in a fantastic way.There is no right way to begin and end in reading. Its very open ended and dimensional.

Saturday comes with blue skies and we're heading to New York for the day.....Yahoo!!!
Its early afternoon and as we cross the bridge into New York,I literally could feel the change in energy.....

We ended up in Soho, on a mission we were going to" Levis Workshop" This is a pop up store totally supported by Levis Jeans and guess what all of it is free a rare concept in New York.. Please go the links and read what this is all about in more detail than i provide here. The short of it is its a Photographers Dream wheather u are an amateur or a professional...One of the areas at the Levi Workshop was a vintgage camera rental,pick your camera and go on a journey and take pics inside or our...our camera choice was a Large Poliroid and out we went treking about Soho,camera was to be returned by 8pm..it wasn't an easy thing using this particular camera and deciding what to shoot.....My head was spinning as we went in and out of stores,galleries etc.it was a blast...We returned to the Workshop and finished off out film inside and got some fun shots. Next u scan,then u can either print out your chosen print onto a tshirt or a large poster. Unfortuantely the lineups were long,however Daniel is going to return.

The fun part we both enjoyed was the photobooth ...What i enjoyed was that time flew as we interactively played with this medium i think for both of us that it was more than b point and shoot. The atmosphere was eclectic,stimulating,challenging and really a hell of alot of fun!!!

Night was upon us and were starving so off to eat at Lucky Strike....well our food choices were simple ,burgers with one beer each. Our burger meal was $43.00 well only in New York lol lol lol

It was a short whirlwind visit full of wonder with a fantastic creative boost that was very welcome. I am going to certainly revisit more time in New York in the near future.

I am holding my mini muse Olivia reflecting on my weekend away full of graditude..

Thanx for joining me on my travels...YA!!!!!

For More Info regarding the Levis Workshop I visited : http://workshops.levi.com/

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Creative Xpansion

2010-11-05T10:57:00.001-07:00

Well Hey There;

I send u warm greetings from Maryland,USA...this is my home base for awhile as the blessed Nanna baby Olivia Lee Thompson was born on October 30th weighing in at 7lbs 9.7 oz. and my bias self thinks that she is the most beautiful baby in the whole wide world.

Life places one where they need to be to learn what is to be seen in the now..I was there for the birth of Olivia and it was the most amazing experience that will stay with me for a long time. To witness new life incoming,no one could have told me how it impacts the deepest depths of your soul. I am totally away from my studio and that has been an adjustment mind u i have been sleep deprived until today, also thought i had lost my creative mojo,but alas its right here in me and i feel it coursing through me at light speed.

I've been thinking the last few days about a title for this particular writing and it kept going back to creative expansion...The experience that I've had regarding Olivia's birth began when my daughter told me she was pregnant and little did i know how fitting the title would be as i write this i realize that a new muse has come into being. Now that i am rested each time i hold/cuddle my "little button"(Olivia) something is happening inside,I see images,words,colors,art pieces that come clearly into my mind. This new little life is full of Technicolor she makes me laugh,become emotional and very protective. I remember these feeling well as Taylor my daughter had been my muse for many years before she went out on her own.

I missed the unspoken/spoken connection my daughter and I had for years when it came to my creativity,she was a natural born creative critic and an awesome perspective on assisting me in seeing my creations in different ways and i have these feelings with Olivia it makes me want to create,make,think,feel the art in ways that I've not experienced before.

Its good to expand ways of being as an artist. Although i am here to soak up baby love,its also a working time for me.. When i first arrived it was very difficult to do a little bit of work as i was pushing myself when i wasn't ready to do anything but just be and enjoy what was happening. In the past 48 hours that has changed,i feel creatively alive again filled up with possibilities just imagine i am in the presence of my two muses my daughter and granddaughter!!!! How lucky and grateful i feel knowing that i am walking the path i am meant to..

The upcoming 2011 is becoming clearer as i move forward with less trepidation, I can't wait to share whats upcoming..Thanx so much my dear readers for your support,encouragement,insights and just plain being there...what a difference many of u continue to make in my life. So please enjoy the pics of "Little Button" Take Care

In Artistic Solidarity;
A Happy Nanna Rhonda

Pictures:

1.6 day old Olivia holding her Olivia Pig

2. Fort Meade Military base

3. Nanna taking little button for her first walk

4. Little Button chillaxing

5. hours old

6. Miss.Olivia weighing in at an hour old

7.Mama Taylor holding her daughter after delivery

8-10. Taylor's Belly Cast by mom and TJ lending a hand

Perspective...............

2010-10-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

Hi All;

I am writing this to u live from outside Washington DC awaiting the birth of my upcoming Nana Babe(translated:grandbaby) I'm still a tad jet lagged and adjusting to the 3 hr ahead time change.Its a working holiday while here with loads of flexibility.

The show must go on....I am going to work on my upcoming ideas for my show in May 2011 while here and feel that I am surrounded by perspective,when one is in need of a change up in perspective then move on, mind u it doesn't have to be as far as I've come something as simple as walking outside your familiar space.

I really am in love with where I do reside,what I love is the peace,tranquility,being surrounded by nature,huge privacy factor. the downside is that I am a distance from amenities that offers choices,friends,west coast express(brings me closer to Vancouver) ,international airport. Although I have come to the realization that I am a country gal first its that going back to my roots and a appreciation for the city as long as I not living there full time..visiting works. My daughter and her husband live on a military base and let me tell u that is a mind trip in itself.

My daughter warned me of Military music that is played 3x a day here...so the first morning here I literally bolted out of bed yelling"Holy Fuck" , blasting at 6:30 am and I mean blasting all over the base through loud speakers is the wake up military music.

u hear different military music at 5:30pm and a night night at 9:00pm.Really!!! I wouldn't mind if it was music from my fave soul singer but no I do not know this music and did I say how damn loud it was....Talk about perspective..still working that one out.

I've been chillaxing in the short time i've been here..It feels good!!!!

Well dear readers thanx for dropping in good to see ya.....Time for me to partake in some creativity which will bring me back to u with pics..Stay Tuned!!!!

May your days be filled with creativity..

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

1. My view of serenity when i am working at the gallery

2. Taylor's pumpkin with ears(chuckle)

3. Katies kewl pumpkin

4. My painted pumpkin

5. Katie carving

6.Taylor carving

7.In the beginning Taylor and Katie

8. Pick a pumpkin any pumpkin

9. Taylor and moi,a visit to the pumpkin patch

10. Almost Olivia

11. Taylor preparing for breastfeeding,milking a cow

12. Kaspers cat sitter/buddy

13. kewl eh!!! made by my gal pal Tina and its all mine

Steppin.............

2010-10-09T08:30:00.001-07:00

Howdy;
How ya all doing? Its always on my mind to update here while days pass me by...but here i am now..Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian family and friends...As i write this i return from a peaceful walk about the lake out here in the out back of Harrison Hot Springs. I am recovering from a nasty flu bug that took ahold of me hard and fast..

My second year of my Artist Residency unfolds with a full schedule..all about changes.. I am happy to announce that i have opened up office/studio space in Mission BC. Mission has a larger population base that i can draw from for workshops,art parties and private one to one facilitation.

So my schedule is as follows this year:

2 days per week in Mission

1 day in Alternative School in Agassiz

2 days in Gallery

2 days in Studio

This is a tight schedule which at moments has left me overwhelmed,however I will be working with a life coach in the next little while regarding my creative biz in Mission. Walking this creative path brings up all sorts of interesting inner sights.

My second and final solo show in May 2011 at Ranger Station Art Gallery is an installation piece called "Sole Mate" more details will come in the new year.

Yes i do have time for me , its been interesting as soon enough i will need to make decisions as to where i will be going next...and my tendency is to go way ahead of myself instead of staying in the now.

Mind u the most exciting aspect of my life is the upcoming birth of my grandbaby this all being a whole new phase on the creative journey,so i will spend time hanging out with my daughter and her evolving family...

There is so much peace and quiet out here that i appreciate everyday and its something that i don't become tired of...Thursdays is my day in the school in Agassiz,so we created "Personal Shields" as of late my studio has been where i drop off stuff or packing up stuff that goes to Agassiz or Mission.

Not much creativity has been cooking there,last week before i got hit with the flu i tackled it and got it all cleaned,it felt like many weights had been lifted.. then i needed to do a sample for the school and i became lost in all my creative stuff and supplies..If heaven is like an art studio then sign me up..

I felt so much better inside and out and truly could see clearly...Last year i went from 5 days of studio work to i am lucky with my new schedule to get in there for the 2 days..however its an important part of who i am..

I share all of this with u,because i am sure many of u have noticed how crazy the world is out there. Doing something that is positive,proactive and brings joy is worth making it a priority in your life....Let me tell ya its worth and so are u....

After all of this writing i am off to the studio...Good Day to Ya

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

The Cycle Of Life..............

2010-09-19T15:14:00.001-07:00

Greetings;
Holy Jumpings....September is flying by me faster than i can keep up...so much to say.however i will save much of it to share throughout different posts.I've begun my second year as Artist in Residence here in Harrison Hot Springs,BC

I write about the cycle of life as i see it fits..The Salmon run has been going on for several weeks and what i understand is that its one of the biggest runs in a long time. In my neck of the woods its like the wild kingdom here as there are bears,cougars,seals,hawks,eagles etc all hanging about grabbing their fair share of the delicacy Salmon as it passes them by. I feel lucky that a friend has Lent me her telescope so that i can take a closer look at some of the wildlife...

In fact a bear sighting was just down the road from the gallery...yikes!!! all part and parcel of country living.

There is also new life coming soon...My daughter is in her last months of pregnancy and this Nana is very excited about holding new life..above is a beautiful of Miss. Taylor in all her pregnant glory!!!

The cycle of life also brings death....My ex husband passed away very recently at the young age of 58 years old,it was certainly a shake up for me as I've known him for 28 years of my life and he's also the father of Taylor..life and death have a way of humbling a person which has been my experience.

The blessings of having my first solo art show is that my work is out and about...my fave piece was the wall altar,my friend Megan purchased that piece before the show opened...I feel very lucky that whenever i visit her space there that blessed piece is. The kewl thing is Megan loves this piece. How blessed i feel!!

I would like to take the time to introduce u to Kasperian better known as Kasper...Now some of u have heard my cat stories since the passing of my loved shadow cat, I missed him dearly and wanted to reconnect again with a fur ball plus there are mice here in the country and i do not cohabitat well with little things that scurry. moving along I've had two other rescues that didn't work out and i had given up hope that i would have a cat in my life. However i can finally say that I've found a connection.. and he is kewl....friendly,loving,talkative,loves to cuddle, and adores his treats!!!

Kasperian is a 10 year old Himalayan that i got off craigslist from a single mom and two kids,her son had severe allergies and kasper wasn't helping.so lucky me got to adopt him,the other neat thing is his last humans and i keep in touch they came to visit him today..so sir kasperian has extended family..

Well that's a catch up folks..there is more to come...I hope this post finds each and everyone of u well in body,mind and spirit....Blessings

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Summertime....

2010-08-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe that we're weeks from Falling In(Fall Season) Although a good part of time was spent creating before my show in July,I've managed to embrace summer

and have a fab time...

Casa De Sanctuary and AlteredAnything Studio has been humming with mucho company crossing the thresholds...Harrison Hot Springs is a great place to come and hang out,the drive here from the city is especially enchanting as u feel the city fall from u as u enter into nature.

I got new wheels thanx to my gal pal who so kindly has leant me a couple of mopeds,let me tell you these electric babies have come in handy especially when I was volunteering for Harrison Festival Of The Arts. My pregnant Taylor's Belly is growing along with Olivia inside and all appears to be well for both mom and little one waiting to be born...there is still a ways to go yet as birthing time is in November.

I the proud Nana have been buying baby girl clothes..Note to self one extra suitcase is enough already!!!

My mentor Luchia came to the Casa for a visit,at first I was hesitant cause I knew that this was a follow up to pre show visit and there was going to still be more work on my part to be done inside and out..well she did not disappoint as I look about at my many notes from our visit.

This was a longer visit as our upcoming schedules will not allow us the luxury of a visit face to face for quite some time. I mention Lucia because she has been an integral part of my life as an artist and a friend. Having a support system makes all the difference in the world for me it brings me into balance plus some clear reality checks.

One Year will be behind me end of August and I begin another year here in Harrison Hot Springs September 2010.

The year in a nutshell has been FABOO!!! so much was learned as life goes I received my fair share of blessings and lessons.

Thank You soooooooooo much for supporting my creativity!!!

Rock On in the Creative World

I shall return in September to continue to document and create the journey as Artist in Residence Year 2.....

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

P:S...They say build it and they will come... they biked,flew,drove to Casa Sanctuary they came from Vancouver,Powell River,Galiano, Alberta,Toronto,New Jersey USA,Wala Washington State,San Miguel De Allende,Mexico,Lower Mainland...............

Namaste My Friends...Thanx for your energy here at the Casa.

Pictures:
1. recent trip to my old stomping grounds Commercial Drive

2.Luchia (one of my mentors) come for a follow up visit after gallery show

3.Play time in studio with Lyndsay from Vancouver(she biked all the way from Vancouver..it took 9 hours)

4. my gal Mercedes from Mexico

5. Hope Art Gallery

6. cob oven @Billies space Hope ,BC

7. A painting i did( funny story about this painting)

8. Megan & Petra in my bedroom hanging a painting

9. Gallery show of my gal pal Ann's Work

10. Agassiz Farmers Market

11. Hicks Lake and Kathy H. is boating in it

12. Volunteer Party gift table for Harrison Festival Of The Arts Volunteers

13. Beautiful and Purple!! In my hood

14 gal pal Virgina from Alberta hadn't seen her in 22 years

15. Cooking at the casa by lorrie S and Nancy

16-18 Harrison Festival Pics

19. Bubba D (New Jersey) Lynn(Washington State)

20.Sandy B..

21. Night Trippin about Harrison

22. My village wheels

23. the fillin of my garden bed

Gallery Tour..."Divergence 3"

2010-08-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

The gallery tour consists of 11 months of studio work...when I was accepted one year ago as Artist In residence I began writing and sketching out some of my ideas and there were many floating about in my head...Looking at my many things in the studio that I had collected more ideas began to flow. I would have to say that the pieces told me how they wanted to be formed although at times I would offer much resistance instead of listening/being with the piece.

The lesson that was constant for me was "Walk Away" until I was ready to go with the flow.

Many people have asked me what is my favorite piece..."They Call Me A Person of Color" I tend to be more vocal regarding issues about being a Black Womin but I had such a strong pull to create something that spoke of and for me. Art is a true love and to have had this experience to go very deep take huge risks to open up has been quite a journey.

Thank-You to all that have supported me by purchasing my work,coming to the show,coming to my studio,assisting in big and little ways to bring it all together.

Thank You to Harrison Hot Springs & Ranger Station its an awesome place to live,create and be. Those of you that were unable to make to the gallery this tour is for you!!!!

Please enjoy

Its always my pleasure to know that you have dropped in....think of the comment section below as a guest book and write a hello..

If you have an interest in purchasing a piece email me and we can go from there...

I am now enjoying some downtime before my next full year begins....

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

1.Me and the garden goddess

2. Skeltons In The Closet

3. Altar # 1

4. Sand Box with Altered Tins

5. Hand Mirror "Elegant Illusion"

*6.Bright Blessings Altar (top piece sold)

7.Balance (Not for Sale)

8. Falling to Pieces

9. Buddah Travel (Not For Sale)

10. Siesta Light Box

11. Games People Play

12. Large Makena

13. Foodie Mirror

14.Peek A Boo

15. OM

16. Emotional Baggage

17.Tripicate Screen

18. Jacket.. "Crossing Borders"

19. Through My Lens

20. Look Within

21. Urban Sprawl

22. Plugged In

23. Large Frida Box

24. All the Worlds A Cage

25. Legs (SOLD)

I notice that a few pics are missing I shall return ........

"DIVERGENCE" Part 2

2010-07-30T09:26:00.001-07:00

Well folks its Showtime...its a full house here at the Sanctuary and we all descend to the gallery as its near 2pm...as I enter the gallery I become overwhelmed at the number of people already present..I take the opportunity to go about and give hugs and hello's to the familiar and not familiar faces...Phyllis the executive director for the Harrison Festival of The Arts is my gracious hostess as well as I am the festivals artist. Short warm speech is presented by Phyllis and then I step forward to say truly a few words.

The gallery was packed with little room for me to run...although I am social,crowds are not my thing and I was feeling quite exposed for all to see.. My henna head was a hit(Thanx Nancy) I mingled and had a chance to chatter to some,plus The fact that there were a number of surprise guests that showed up which was very delightful!!!

It was alot to take in all at once... comments flew about and at me unfortunately it was all too much although on the outside I held it together. Several people saw my pieces in various stages as well as blog posts but it looks quite different when its all together.

I couldn't even come to terms that I did do all of this work and to think that I was worried that I didn't have enough work to fill the gallery lol lol. What was kewl were the number of locals that came to the reception.Did I sell pieces??? Well yes I did...Thank you to my patrons..

Thanx so much to Laurie and Terri who laid out a wonderful spread of food.I was way to neverous to even consider eating food although it looked damn good. The other thing was that I didn't have my camera on me so no pics from me..The gallery guest book and my own guest book received a number of comments during the opening.

After the reception we my many gal pals and I headed upstairs for a private after party in which I could unwind..I believe it will take me awhile to take in this day. I feel such pride in myself that I began and finished each piece that was present today in the gallery.

Again Thank you for being here today and those that weren't I could feel the energy that u were sending my way. One of the highlights for me was my daughter Taylor couldn't be present in body but was with us on Skype...there are some benefits to technology and distance.

Divergence BINGO:

This variation in the game bingo was created by my friend Heather Knox especially for the month long show.Many of my pieces are made up of little pieces.

Are you up for the challenge?

Explore Rhonda’s exhibit. Look closely. See if you can find five images in a row. Up/down across or diagonal. All images can be found tucked away in the art pieces. Bonus point for finding all of 25 of the images

Stay Tuned for Divergence Part 3 Gallery Tour
Happy Prideful Weekend!!!

"DIVERGENCE" Part 1

2010-07-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

Howdy;

I am back to work in the gallery from 1-5pm Saturdays & Sundays after some time off.However I am not back in my studio creating until mid September as feeling like I need downtime from hands on work. My show comes down on August 1st,2010...after a very full month of activity.

My first solo show has been full of so many blessings and yes a few lessons just to balance it out.

Literally worked right up till noon day of artists reception....I couldn't have finished up the many little last minute details without the help of house guests Nancy & Lorie...the facts were if u come a calling days before the art show u were being put to work....needless to say it all got done although my stress levels were extremely high.

The day of artist reception early morning was upon me after 4 hours of sleep,the night before Nancy gifted me with her creativity of doing my head in Hena on my bald head..we started the process with cutting then shaving my head.....it truly in my humble opinion was a beautiful thing....normally every year I shave my head but have always kept some peach fuzz...this time it was all about the exposure..

Artist Reception Day:10:00 am a carload of friends from Vancouver arrived,thank goddess fresh energy they were put to work....

2pm opening was ticking closer and I was more than focused well ok scared to death..the hum and buzz of voices were all about me as I took care of really the very last minute details. Jody began videoing upon her arrival from Vancouver before it gets to hectic but have no fear the reception will be videoed..how lucky I feel. So many feelings are demanding attention but there is no time...

Laurie and Terri arrive with the food...what I can remember is everyone jumps into lend a hand to bring it all together... Time is ticking closer to 2pm, people begin arriving in the gallery,meanwhile I walk about in circles doing alot of self talk that its OK,everything is OK....

Stay tuned for Part 2 of "DIVERGENCE"

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

What's up at the Sanctuary...........

2010-07-15T09:34:00.000-07:00

Good Morning;
Just wanted to pop in and let u know I live and continue to breathe here in the outback...

All i can say is its been a whirlwind. lots to share and will certainly do that soon...enjoy the awesome weather..

see ya soon

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

The above pic is called "Bright Blessings" its one of the altars i created for the show...anyhow the top piece of the altar sold on the day of hanging the show....I gotta tell ya for sure you will see more of these wall altars in the future..

Come On Down!!!!

2010-06-30T08:26:00.001-07:00

The Name of my Show is............DIVERGENCE
1. The act,fact or amount of diverging:a divergence in opinion.

How does one stay focused when there is much to say.....Divergence is a show of branching out in many thoughts although few directions. Found,discarded,used up objects that once had a place in our lives are repurposed to hold,speak and talk a new story. Divergence takes the viewer on a journey through issues of racism,travel and spirituality.

Gallery Hours: Monday -Friday 9:00-4:00

Saturday & Sunday 1:00 -5:00

Thanx to Krystin Clark-Goodsell for the creation of the invite/postcard.........
http://www.walkingwithkrystin.blogspot.com/

This years Festival Of The Arts July 10-18 looks like a truly fun time check it out and think about coming on down for a concert or two.
http://www.harrisonfestival.com/

See ya sooner rather than later

Rhonda

The Finish Line................

2010-06-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

Morning All;
haven't forgotten ya....this is a quick one as the witching hour is upon me to cease all art in the next 48 hours YIKES!

Am i done yet??? lol lol nope but pretty darn close...pieces are being left behind as i speak cause no room or just not feeling that they belong in the show...My mornings start pretty darn early and into 12 hour days that is without set up of the gallery....got a crew incoming on Wednesday night to help with set up ....Thank Goddess...

Can hardly find myself in my studio right now and the thing is last night creativity is spilling into the living space..whats a creative to do...between u and me i will be happy when the show is hung. my head and heart is all in which doesn't make me the best company to be around right now as i can't be present for any of u...

The last two weeks have been particularly stressful as i also continue with my residency duties, hmm lets see I've presented an art award, gone to a graduation,a dinner, however i am now done and will be able to take some time off..

GOOD NEWS....

I was accepted for another year of residency,as some of u know i reapplied and lo and behold here i be with a second year of residency!!! I will be taking some time off as i need it..

I am going to be a Nana!! Taylor and her husband TJ are expecting their first child in mid November...

SAD NEWS...

Last Wednesday i let my 17 year old" familiar" my cat shadow go.....i knew that when we moved here almost a year ago that would be his last move...over the past few months he started to go downhill so made a very hard decision to say good bye to my fur friend...its left a big hole in my heart and space as he's been a big part of my life and we have journeyed about BC together..

I'm thinking i have bought u up to date.....oh and one more thing come on down to my opening of my show on Sunday July 4th 2010 @ 98 Rockwell Dr Harrison Hot Springs
2-4pm otherwise the show is on all of July...............

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

The Muse..................

2010-06-15T08:48:00.001-07:00

Good Morning;
did ya miss me?? I am withdrawing more from the outside of my studio walls as my creativity is demanding all of my attention and energy which leaves little left over for any of u!!!

Its all about the Art!! its funny one never knows how u impact people and this is something i want to share.

I met Andy through the Gallery here and workshops that i was facilitating...she is a fab artist who uses only recycled goods in her work. Andy has been a great supporter of me for which i am very grateful for..ya know it does take a village to support an artist.

Andy surprised me when i was at her house working on yet another piece.. she did this piece called" My Muse Rhonda" I was so surprised and it left me speechless yeah yeah that doesn't happen often..its beautiful as to who i am which was another thing that was insightful from another's perspective..

well ya just never know as i am learning through this journey.....

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Slow and Steady to the finish line................

2010-06-13T15:46:00.000-07:00

Hi All;
Yes I've been underground in my studio....my deadline is dancing closer to me..so i am all in which leaves me with not much to say here right now..Stay Tuned as i will be back after a short commercial break with more on whats going on behind the scenes..............

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

The above pic is a fave saying of mine and will become part of a larger piece..............

Artist/Studio Soup

2010-05-26T08:14:00.000-07:00

Its been a long spring don't ya think....people,places and situations are springing about....the swirl is about transformation inside and out...
My creative soup has been simmering in the studio for quite awhile now in fact its coming to a full boil....
I've used so many ingredients that are on hand and passed onto me..
I truly believe it takes a community to support an Artist and most certainly i can give testimony to that.
So much has been added to the studio soup pot that it almost runneth over despite the full boil. When one makes a commitment to a dream hold on for the
the ride of your life,regardless of how its framed in this writing as soup..its a wild ride..now i am not a roller coaster fan except from the sidelines but seeing those
dips,sharp turns and speed has been my ride as of late on land.

I wonder can one be over focused..well i am to the point that i am dropping balls such as social engagements unless they come to me here in the outback

and then i impose limits because creative time is so precious.but honestly i feel OK out here rattling around with my cats and creative collections..OK maybe its

the change of life upon me to which is adding to the wild ride. Don't get me wrong
i do not complain,however its an intense time of completing wrapped in full on creativity. This has been a time where i find out who i am on levels that
were unknown to me.Out of the soup comes a stronger resolve,confidence and such sweet peace with strong dashes of happiness. So this is what it means
to me to be creating a-way!!

The many details outside of hands on work is huge....i had no idea that so much went into a solo gallery show..I thank my village and community for raising me up
to be who i am and for your ongoing support that shows up in diverse ways.My creative soup bubbles and babbles away as new things,thoughts,experiences
are added.So my people Create On!!!

Thanx for stopping in..good to see ya

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Pics:

1.Old Blue...given to me by one of the locals who moved,i go between riding my bike and walking in the mornings...

2. Show Piece- "Deception"

3. "They Call Me A Person Of Color"(work in progress)

4. ask and ya shall receive......bottle caps given to me by one of the local restaurants(its a great Thai restaurant)

5. Show Piece-"Emily Post Guide to Cell Phones"

The Countdown................

2010-05-12T08:06:00.001-07:00

I am 5-6 weeks from completing my body of creative work for my upcoming solo show in July....Holy Shit!!! i am not going to go on about time,we've all heard just enough about that.

Thank Goddess the weather is finally coming around..yes i can truly deal with blue skies and heat...continue to bring it on. I am way past freaking out cause frankly there is no time for it...what has happened is I've become extremely singleminded with the many tasks at hand...one doesn't have a clue whats involved in putting a gallery show together until your surrounded by the so many details.

I had a plan of pieces to do well lets just say some have come into being others have gone by the wayside due to the fact that other pieces have showed up in my day and night dreams and have been damn insistent on being created....SIGH.......At times i ask myself what the hell are u doing and why?? but again i got no time to contemplate..I love what i am doing and its been a total experience on so many levels although there is that restless gypsy part that is in need of some travel.Yes it will come later but i can hold that close.

Ya know i would say these are becoming the best years of my life...so much to be grateful for and the one thing that has been a blessing is having a studio all to myself..my creative hours have increased and are rather erratic but I'm happy happy happy..

I've also accumulated a whole lot of stuff (3-4 van fulls ..shh i hear ya) thanx to all who thought i could use this and that in this creative process and much of it has come in handy while some of it challenges me as to what will i do with it..The balance for me now is not to become so lost in the creative process and i thank friends & family who maintain contact..its helped alot!!!

I do look forward to putting the finishing touches on the many pieces that have been created and believe it or not i am finishing pieces..I work on 2-4 pieces at a time but now am being forced to work differently in order to reach outcomes..

There has been mucho going on in the gallery with shows,receptions and also my outreach work which i will finish on Friday. So studio work is not the only thing that captures my focus..

Well dear readers its back to the studio for this writer..thanx again for dropping in...

Create On!

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

Pics:

1. Me Chilling

2. Frida Shadow Box in progress

3."Capturing Memories"

Tunnel Vision

2010-04-27T13:44:00.000-07:00

I have an art condition called Tunnel Vision:

a drastically narrowed field of vision, as in looking through a tube.
It has been creeping up on me over the past month and now I have a full blown case....It is treatable prescription drugs are not necessary but what is required are longer hours in my studio,more hot baths,many movies,lots of cuddles with sir shadow, chats on the phone with family and friends,long walks and bike rides.

Sunday April 25 th 2010 was the Young At Art Reception here at the gallery...This month hanging in the gallery has been the creativity of School district 78 primary-senior students,their creative expression fills the walls.What has been delightful is seeing the kids come in full of enthusiasm and pride as they see their art on the wall,that is something that I don't tire of is the being in the present moment attitude that children have..Ok speaking of children I am going to be a Nana this year yep my daughter Taylor and her husband Tj(newlyweds) are bringing a new generation forth...

I also feel I am birthing more in the sense though of my artwork...and I am getting closer to the harder labor of pushing my own creative expression in the world for u all to see..Over the last little while artist acquaintances/friends have strolled through my studio the feedback I have received has been food for thought that I have either pondered or acted upon... being so close to my art its very easy to lose sight of the vision/outcome for a piece. The perspective of others has assisted me in taking a particular piece to the finish line..I appreciate all of the insights..Thanx so much for that!!!!

I am living/breathing/talking/acting out another dream that I also spoke about...experiencing my daily life as artist in residence is way beyond what I dreamed in fact its even better..when I am feeling out of sorts/stressed about how I am going to bring all of this together,little things pop up that solidifies that for today this is where I am in the moment doing,being,seeing,feeling my way about in my artists way and tomorrow will come without me wanting or needing to know what's next.

I am off to the BC Arts Conference at the end of the week so that will be fun to connect with like minded on a bigger scale.So ya see this writers creative journey rocks and rolls..Thanx for tuning in..

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

Pics:

1: side table or???

2: Top of an Altar

3: Afri-can Warrior Screen

4: OM

5: Artists Reception at gallery "Young At Art"

6: Chalk Art(gallery)

7: Graffiti Door on display at Agassiz Library

8: bottle caps I've been collecting on morning walks to be incorporated in a piece

9: "Young At Art Show"

Studio Intervention & Trippin

2010-04-20T08:43:00.000-07:00

My People,My People;
How the hell are ya? I am alive and kicking here at Casa De Sanctuary and Alteredanything Studio...So i owe u all a few posts,lets get at it....The last post i am whining about a suggestion given to me by a friend of clean and organizing my studio as it would help...Well at that time i thought this friend had completely lost it. As i tell people to remain open this was a time when i needed to take my own advice, keep my mouth shut and go with the flow.

Goddess love my friend Megan,she truly has been a huge support to me and us Artists need that well i know i do. Megan,Pam(Megan;s sister) & Chris showed up on a Friday evening with dinner,drinks and loads of energy. I was a bundle of nerves cause i had things organized in the studio that worked for me and people were going to be moving and changing stuff up,truly i was so wrong. After Dinner we all stepped into the studio the music was put on and each of us took up a position and dived in...my things were everywhere and nowhere it was a blur..four hours later as i looked around there was a difference...yes things had a places to live,there were open spaces..temp shelves were in place and the biggest difference were my work tables..For the past six months i have not seen the tops of my tables. Behold i could walk around the table and see clear space all around.I welled up with emotion or maybe it was the paralyzer.

The studio had a rebirth my heart soared and what weight i carried around these last months was gone. Truly i had a an attitude adjustment. There were so many memories of that intervention that i will carry with me and talk about as it truly made a difference in my creative life. One of the fun things that we did that night was to do a random changing installation on one of the tables adding bits and odds here and there( i will post pics of those later) no analyzing as to how and why of these sculptures..WE JUST DID IT.. Thank You Megan,Pam & Chris!!!! U womyn rock

Studio Update:
I gotta tell ya now weeks later,i love my clean,organized studio..Creatively i am on fire cause i am clear inside and out.not to mention organized.

Away Away;

Days later after Studio Intervention..i took some time out and away with another gal pal Jody..we were off to Powell River..we had fun especially since the weather was in our favor..i love being on the ferry and Jody& I caught up on the beautiful drive and ferry's.. We saw our gal pal Nancy who resides in Powell River...it was a whirlwind visit but much needed...its always a pleasure to hang out with friends..

Well this is a long overdue quick to the point post..coming up are new pieces in progress and coming to finish on many of these pieces. Its hard to believe that my time is almost up here in the outback of Harrison Hot Springs. However for today i am enjoying each and every moment that i creatively have here.

Just a shout out to all that take the time to read my ramblings...Thanx So Much...U all also make a difference in my life....

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Shout Out!!!!

2010-04-11T13:58:00.000-07:00

Calling All Creatives:
Its almost that time when i will be signing off as Artist In Residence here at Ranger Station Art Gallery...The New year for the next artist is September 2010..

Yeah Yeah i hear ya...September is way off.ok got that but here's what i need you to do..

Dear Artists;
its time to update your CV,dust off and add to your portfolio..think about what your creative year looks like...Deadline is June 1st.

For More info on the Artists in Residence programme:

http://kentharrisonartscouncil.org/

I will return with an update from my recent get away and Studio cleanup/organize.............

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

The Creative Bed

2010-03-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

Salutations from the Sanctuary...nice to see ya here.as I write this I am tying up some loose ends to take a time out actually some time away from the sanctuary as I am feeling alot of stress along with exhaustion meeting deadline after deadline.

April brings me to three months to complete all the pieces with a small window to tweak before July..Yeah I know what your saying.." you have lots of time Rhonda" well actually no as I look at the 6 studio lists that document pretty well all the pieces and what needs to be done...its the little things that can do one in. I have over thirty pieces .....SHIT!!! rather ambitious when it all this started although there is much headway being made...being smack dab in the middle of it all makes the big picture so much larger...Friends have jumped in to help in various ways and I am damn grateful...

The most interesting help I am receiving is the organizing and cleaning of the studio,now when this was first suggested I was doubtful,resistant,cynical cause I could not see this decreasing my stress as i glance at my studio chaos so I gotta say reluctantly am saying yes..I will get back to u on the outcome of studio clean/organize.

The picture of the bed is kewl huh?? this piece was given to me and it will be used as part of my show...that bed is a great symbology for how I am feeling these days there it sits waiting for me to just lay down and chill...

My time out will be a good time to rebalance,connect and just be with friends in a different environment..

No Art for awhile...unplugging from u all...see ya soon.......

May the creative force be with u.....

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

Thoughts Become Things......

2010-03-12T08:34:00.001-08:00

Howdy Ho Readers;

I hope this post finds your life full of abundance....Although i say that i am very aware that its challenging on so many levels for many of you right now,it just seems that so much is out of balance these days.

As i step into the studio daily and realize that time is ticking to meet this enormous deadline naturally stuff has arose which has impacted my creativity in one way or another,however i am in the studio even when i am creatively blocked there i sit or clean up the studio.I had a dream of one day being and doing art and today for the last six months I've done just that.Eat,Breathe,Talk Art what an amazing journey thus far its been. It has been much about self discovery and hmm i think maybe only a couple of layers have been peeled back.

I have so many of you to thank for your support which makes my work all the more full of meaning.Because been in overwhelm mode my mentor Luchia suggested that i write all my pieces down and what needs to be completed..Holy jumpings what a task before me...This is real what is happening here in the studio!!! My days begin anywhere from 6-7 am..the morning walk(dependant on weather) is a great kickstart as i allow my mind to wander and my body moves into balance.

I still continue to love my surroundings here...the peace and quiet are my best friends

What i am trying to say as each day when i step over the threshold into the studio i find out what i am made of and its alot ,the good,bad and the ugly but still there is a part of me that holds back..not quite sure what is going to come out of me.There are surprises from when i began in my head thinking of what i was going to create,my head had some pretty strong ideas,the heart and soul translated what truly needed to be created through my hands.

Thoughts truly do become things but i think that u are not told that they have to get by your heart and soul first...

The above pics are pieces that are in progress...Do something for me actually for yourself. take time for u,treat u in a way that u want to be treated.!!

To Thine Own Self Be True and rock on in the creative world.....

In Blessed Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

P:S.....I've chosen to share the pics with you but i am not going to put a name to the pieces at this time..Please be aware theses pieces are all in progress...

Become A Fan On my Facebook Page......copy and paste into your web browser

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rhonda-Simmons/360161663155?v=photos&ref=ts

Art-Full

2010-03-01T09:49:00.000-08:00

How do readers?? are ya enjoying winter in whatever form it is visiting you....I am happy with the sprinwinter(spring,winter) this year how grateful i am that being here this year that last years winter didn't repeat..yahoo!!! i continue to yearn for blue skies,humid air and sunshine..however writing that i am happy to be where i am today as an artist in residence.

Today is my six months that i began this adventure...so as of March 1st i have four months to complete my body of work!!! Yikes.i am border line overwhelm and hysteria especially when i look at the big picture..Stay with me here for a minute while i BREATHE! its full moon today

Quickening moon:
This is a month when new life is beginning, but still lies dormant. Pregnant animals, due in the spring, begin to feel the quickening of their unborn young. The earth itself is quickening, as seeds and bulbs far beneath the soil begin their journey towards the light. We know these things are coming -- and we know also that this is a good month to make plans for the future. We can dream and hope, and set goals for ourselves. Accept responsibility for mistakes you've made in the past, and move on. Magical workings this month should focus on personal achievements and advancement.

Progress is perking away in the studio,i have had to stop with bringing any new creative ideas aboard as my creative hands runneth over....

The title is fitting of my past week....Casa De Sanctuary/Studio was full up with guests coming and going...the truly kewl factor is they are all are artists..yep yep..

Monday: Krystin from Mission came for a play time in the studio...as usual we chattered and created...Krystin has worked her artistic magic on invitations for my show in July...I'll share a sneak peek soon. Take a stroll over to Krystin's blog to see more of her art.

http://www.walkingwithkrystin.blogspot.com/

Tuesday: Violette from White Rock also came for a play time but we ended up talking and brainstorming which is a bonus as it helped me push through some blocks i was having with some of my pieces.. u know the drill stroll on over, i love her work.

http://www.violette.ca/blog.html
if u scroll down a day or two u will read Violette's thoughts on her visit to Casa De Sanctuary. The title of the entry violette wrote is called "Assemblage Heaven"

Wednesday: Daniel from New Jersey USA,picked up Daniel on Tuesday night ...I met Daniel last year in San Miguel,Mexico and he has been a great supporter of me..this young man is uber talented..this is his second trip to Canada to visit me ,last year a couple of months after i returned from Mexico and this time which is perfect timing as i have been grieving Mexico lately.(it will be one year March 7th that i returned from Mexico) My new website was built by Daniel.Love his Text and Thoughts Work

http://www.danielpatrick.org/
http://www.thepricelesschapel.com/

Wednesday: I hired a couple of the teenagers from the Alternative school to come to my studio to build some of my pieces.

Thursday: I facilitate a art programme that i set up for the Alternative High School once a week,this is part of my outreach for my artists residency.

Friday:The end of an Art-full week at Casa De Sanctuary,i am exhausted but so creatively filled..Thanx so much for reading along

The beginning of March has me with a consistent full schedule but i love the fact that its all art related....I got a load of gratitude for my life right now...............IT ROCKS..

Well its 8:36pSunday night February 28thfull moon,i have a gal pal visiting but felt compelled to finish this up....Thanx so much for stopping in.......let me know that u have passed by here leave me a
word or two....

In Artistic Solidarity
Rhonda

Pictures:

1. daniel &moi in the gallery

2.Alt School art project for gallery show in April (chair)

3.Alt School art project for gallery show in April (screen)

4.Daniel working in the classroom at the alt school

5.Building of my art pieces...Justin,Harley and yours truly

6.Justin and Harley working it

7.Violette

8.Creativity by Krystin

9.Krystin

10.Studio piece in progress

Drifting.................

2010-02-09T15:00:00.001-08:00

When I began writing this post in my head a few weeks back,I was on my morning walk on the beach marveling at the many pieces of driftwood strewn about.Yesterday was a beautiful,clear sunny coolish day ,after coming to a resolution with one of my creations it was high time to step out...The driftwood never left my mind and it was time to take a pic.

At the end of this month I will be halfway through my residency which is totally blowing my mind. The creations that want to be seen spill out of me I dream of asleep and awake which makes it difficult at times to be totally present with people unless u want a hell of alot of art talk. There are those kindred creative souls that are open to sharing this experience with me and want to know what's cooking in the studio..Thanx so much for that!!!

Mornings are a beautiful window in the beginnings of a day for me,regardless of what time I go to bed,morning appears and I am up.There are times when I do force myself to languish under the bedcovers and gaze out the window to the lake,however I am called forth to the outdoors... Many things here at "Casa De Sanctuary" are showing themselves in the flow of the creative process.. I named my show which is kind of funny cause as things go it wasn't the name that I started out with quite awhile back.

I will sign a contract specifically for the show....so get out your daytimers as my Artists Reception opening of my solo show will be July 4th 2010 2-4 pm. I share this date early as hoping that some friends that are a distance away will be able to make it.

Thus far I have 26 pieces that are in some state of progress in and out of the studio. So now my focus will turn towards completing these pieces with so many varied diverse details. I'm beginning to be excited and scared shitless cause this is real time folks...big steps here inside and out!!!

The driftwood becomes part of my sanctuary in one way or another from these morning walks and this is only a small part of what is too come on the beach so the locals say. Last week I had the pleasure of spending a wonderful evening with a local resident who resides here part time. Alex's main home is in Toronto but his family home is here in the village. This is a space that I've admired on my morning walks through the village so I was thrilled to step over the threshold.

Our evening was full of good food,spirits(Thanx Alex) laugher,sharing,becoming acquainted..Alex is also an artist a photographer to be exact and his work is very kewl!!! We shared what we enjoyed about Harrison Hot Springs and something Alex said took my breath away and I became deeply reflective.. Alex said that he enjoys the "Silence" Yes I can so relate to that I have embraced the silence in a big way to the point that its hard to move me away from here if only to run errands. If u were to ask me already what is my fave time of year its NOW...its just me,nature and the locals...tourist season is not part of the equation ........there's space all about and I love it Yes Alex especially the silence.

The environment is a fab place for an artist to create....there is no time to feel lonely..hell no with the amount of company I have out here lol lol...I am happy that u all are enjoying the Casa!!!!

Well its another creative day and so I must say my see ya sooner rather than later....

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Create 2010...................

2010-01-29T14:15:00.000-08:00

Salutations Dear Readers;

Warm hello's from the outback of Harrison Hot Springs....yes its becoming usual that its taking me time between postings but here I be right now. As up glanced at the title your probably wondering yeah what??? I for one do not make News Years resolutions not quite sure when I dropped it .Resolutions felt loaded with lots of pressure plus the fact that they never lasted past a month.

So I liked the idea of picking a word for the year and integrating it throughout my life. How fitting that I chose create as it speaks volumes this year doing the residency programmed.

1: to make or bring into existence something new

2: to produce or bring about by a course of action or behavior

3: to produce through imaginative skill

My plate is quite full right now with Studio creativity,projects&deadlines..growing up unlike others I didn't hear finish everything on your plate,well I'm now in a position that my plate must be cleaned before I take second helpings from the creativity buffet.

January I've had a temporary house guest,my gal pal Mary...its interesting how ones daily routine becomes modified.Although I have been able to be in my studio it amazes me how distracted I got with someone else here. Looking forward to full on focus once again now that I begin the familiar dance of routine.So please don't take it personally when I don't return phone calls&emails promptly,it will be more likely in a timely manner.

Studio process has been insightful I started out with some strong ideas on some of my pieces, the present evolvement of work is way different than I could imagine and I'm surrending to what needs to be created despite the fact that some of it is hard.

Mary was a wonderful studio voice with suggestions,praise,ideas,names for pieces and even witnessing her wade into her own creativity. The cockles of my heart are warmed when I see people speaking and working in creativity(Art is my heart).Tuesday was a wonder filled day starting off with my morning walk then studio time.around 1pm my outside doorbell rang which Mary answered,at the bottom of my stairs I hear a knock and a deep baritone voice saying" Rhonda do u want to go out on the boat" Well yeah!!! so away we go on Harrison Lake,the sun was high the water clear like glass. There were four of us thoroughly enjoying being on the water puttering away in the sailboat called "Mellow Yellow"(owned by Ernie and Irene).

As much as I am hooked on routine spontaneity is routines partner both grace my life.

Its hard to believe that end of next month 6 months of residency will embrace me.

Thanx so much for stopping in and reading the blog...I appreciate u being there.This year is an experience that is worth sharing with others.

Remember Create A Way.....

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

Pics(click on pic for closer view)

1.My 2010 word

2.Piece in progress

3."Mellow Yellow" Sailboat

4.A view of my place from the boat

5.kewl rock sculpture

6.Paula,Ernie(owner of boat) and yours truly, Mary took the pic

7.ATC workshop that i host on Friday nights in the gallery

8.Miss. Destiny who is now fixed (Awomyn)

9.Eagles and we also saw a seal(no pics of seal)

In The New Year of 2010

2010-01-11T08:47:00.000-08:00

Howdy and Blessings of an abundant 2010;
I hope this writing finds u rested from the holidays..I return from a recent trip to Washington DC to visit my daughter. enjoyed myself but i am glad to be back at Casa De Sanctuary..

One of the sights i wanted to partake of while in DC was the Smithsonian and i did get to see one of my fave museums which was the museum of African American Art..it rocked!!! there was an artist that i truly embraced his work..

Yinka Shonibare.co.uk

The colors,subject of his work truly hit home for me on so many levels..check him out
I didn't create anything while i was away and began feeling that shortly before i returned home.
Although i am not back in the Gallery on weekends until the beginning of March, there are other spots in my daily calendar that require my attention. I am almost halfway through my residency and its been a kewl ride thus far and the experiences that has come my way.

I will be posting my new website url shortly so stay tuned...This is short and sweet but i wanted to pop into to say How Do?? I do not make resolutions anymore haven't done that for years..i try and live one day at a time.

I have posted a few pics of Solstice 2009 which i consider my xmas celebrations,in particular i would like to share one of the pics...My friend Mary and i began this when we were in Mexico on the balcony of the Casa i was housesitting..we would write our doubts ,fears in chalk on the balcony then we would dance on them while singing....we introduced this to two of my other gals pals on Xmas Day as we all bundled and walked..we wrote down our doubts and fears and respecting the privacy i didn't take pics of our words...we sang and danced away on the beach..

Happy 2010 Friends and Family

Big Hugs;
Rhonda

Pics:

1.Yinka Shonibare piece called "Black Gold"

2. Taylor and moi

3.Dancing our doubts away

4.My hood,Harrison Hot Springs...hanging with the gal pals

5.Solstice Setting

Creative Fire

2009-12-21T14:35:00.000-08:00

Hey is that u? well its me...
Happy Solstice All!!!! my title is pretty fitting as of late there has been a creative fire raging inside of me,quite a bit of my off time is now spent in the studio creating away and i am loving whats coming out of me thus far. Which brings me to say i am sorry for those social invites that I've turned down to celebrate the holidays. Solstice has always been my big winter celebration that i do focus on,this year like last will be very quietly spent alone with the fur babies and nature.

I've been struggling alot with being here in the gray and some snowy weather as i grieve for soaring temps,blue skies and warmth of the sun. My holidays are very low key as i don't subscribe to the consumerism that is associated with Christmas,last year i was so impacted by the Mexican celebrations that i am making different choices. Although i did step out on Saturday to a house party in Abbotsford in which i had a great time,it didn't hit me that i needed that social contact with others.

Ya know i do this blog so that i can document my year here as AIR (artist in residence) i appreciate all the feedback from u and its been a surprise at how many of u do read my babble..thanx for the emails,letters ,cards & phone calls.

Luckily the creative fire continues so i will take full advantage of it and roll with it. The pics above open the sanctuary to give u glimpses into the creative workings...this is short and sweet today as i am gonna wander back into the studio.I wish each and every one of u Blessed Holidays.

Bright Blessings;
Rhonda

Pics:

1. card received in mail today from my dear Garry,this is a painting he did of the funky building i live/work in if u look close its the back of the building that faces the lake...a light is on in one of the windows which is my studio. a window is open in my bedroom,the back door i go in and out of. Main floor is the gallery,festival of the arts offices. second floor is my studio and living space.

2.This is a big ass dictionary that i picked up at thrift store for a piece i am working on.this is the before

3. This is the after of the outside of dictionary......click on pic for close up

4."A touch of elegance" repurposed mirror....click on pic for close up

5.some of my work and projects on display at the gallery downstairs

6.Destiny in one of the positions that i love SLEEPING!!!!

My life as an ongoing Art Party......

2009-12-07T12:57:00.000-08:00

How Do?
I hope this entry finds u warm and toasty....Life flows here in the village of Harrison Hot Springs. I am now on a nice break from residency commitments over the next several months.
its hard to believe that here I've been neck deep in creativity...Hows that working for me u ask?? its been right on because i am loving what i am doing.I continue to enjoy residing here in the village.

Its funny how one can adjust to what is...one thing i like is there aren't a whole lot of choices as a consumer here however saying that the choices that i do have i like such as well I'm close 10 minute drive to Agassiz which is an active farming community.i purchase free range eggs,in season produce,coffee roaster,pie bakers,and so on.. In January i am going to sign up with Lady Bug Organics and have produce , groceries delivered to my door this will save driving time.That is the thing that i have traded which i do miss a walkable community mostly but i am trying to be aware of how much i am driving.

The pics are varied and gives a window into whats been happening in and out of Casa de sanctuary. My three art mentors have all come to visit to add input to my creativity, plus they are dear friends.

Believe it or not i am organizing for a full 2010 more on that after a nice restful break. I keep shaking my head in disbelief as this time last year i was trekking about Mexico(sigh) I miss the heat!!!!

Jessica the editor of the local paper here wrote a piece on my residency check it out,I'm quite please with it:

http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valley/ahobserver/entertainment/78335092.html

Thought i would save the best for last.....I would like you to welcome a new addition to the CASA..please say meow to Jusun Destiny(she will be called density) she came to me from a business here in Harrison Hot Springs. Jusun is the name she came with(Japanese) i am unsure as to what it means. Shadow is adjusting to destiny in the short time she has been here. its funny as shadow is slow(er) destiny is go. I've forgotten what its like to have a young animal about(density is 3-6 months old).

Thanx again for stopping in,its good to see u...

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Pics:

1.A journal page i created called Art & Life

2.Introducing Jusun Destiny....

3.Rainbow Food at Casa de sanctuary

4.My friend and art mentor Luchia creating in the kitchen here at the casa

5.Artist Trading Cards

6.Art Party 2 at the Casa Studio,this is a artist trading card session

7 I.Taught Artist Trading Card workshop in Hope Nov 30/09

8.Art Party creative table at Casa's Studio

9.Reminder on white board in hope

10.Artist trading cards in progress in Hope BC

11.This is my door in the studio this documents the pieces that are in progress for 2010 show

12. I created this portable ad for upcoming drop in Artist trading cards January 2010 at the Casa studio

Life and Times of Artist in Residence

2009-11-22T14:40:00.000-08:00

I send u greetings from Harrison Hot Springs;
here i is and its been almost a month since i last wrote here..tell me is it an age thing or does time truly have wings..i believe so especially when it comes to keeping this blog up to date. The residency continues to be a creative learning curve that i am enjoying as there appears to always be something ahead..

I've been here three months the end of November..I still am enjoying all that this experience is as its diverse each day....the peace,tranquil laid back life is growing on me which is evident in so many ways that i approach my life. There are pros and cons to anything and small towns are no exception. What has been a saving grace is all of u and my commitment to my art..The awesome news that i would like to share is my solo show will be in July 2010!!! OK for those of u unfamiliar with my new hood,its a resort village yep...and during July there is a festival of the arts that has been ongoing for 30 plus years the festival consists of art market,kids day,art exhibit,concerts(world music) and some of these concerts take place on the beach..it really is an awesome time for me to show.

My community outreach for my residency here has consisted of working in the alternative school facilitating some art workshops with the teens and i got to say that i am thoroughly enjoying this experience,mostly teen males but they are adding a whole different dimension to my creative life and the fact is they are loving what we are doing. I also have been facilitating workshops in my studio,Life Drawing just finished on Friday.Artist Trading Cards will begin mid January.

The residency has kept my day timer full of this and that appointment. Which brings me to yes i am creating many different pieces for my show,its alot of work with so many details to each piece. As of November 30th/2009 i will have three months off from some of my residency commitments. I know your thinking it will be time for me to kickback.....aww no rest for this creative one as i will be laying out my timeline for studio work and tighten up the pieces i will be creating.

Recently i had the pleasure of hosting a very dear friend of mine we've known each other for 27 years..Garry is not only a friend but my art mentor,when i was much younger i was his student.
It was great having him here to witness my creative transformation and to hear his feedback,insight of my work.

The other thing i did was bring other old friends together in my Sanctuary,it was a good time had by all.

The next entry will be on a piece that i entered into the miniature show here at the gallery,i surprised myself at the outcome of this piece.

Well dear readers its almost time for me to close the gallery and head up to the Sanctuary to prepare for another full week.. Thanx so much for stopping in.

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Pictures

1. Party at the Sanctuary........

2.My dear Garry and moi

3,4,5 Mosaic Making at (ACE School)

6.Graffiti T-Shirts (ACE School)

7.My creative centre(The studio)

8.My gal pal Nancy came to visit and hang from Powell River

9.Eagle Watching(this is the time of the year that the eagles return to this area)

10.Garry

Witch Way...................

2009-10-31T15:24:00.000-07:00

Well readers its that time of year as Hallow eve,Samhain(Witches New Year),Day of the dead,All Saints Day is upon us....I send u blessings from my hood here in the outback of small town Canada.

The Art Residency continues to fill my days in and out of the studio...just when I thought things would slow.nope another creative event,project,proposal has my name on in large letters. This is not about complaining but more about counting my blessings each and every day for this new experience.

Studio time and the daily commitment is truly paying off in some big ways,I have approx 10 pieces in some part of evolving. This past Thursday I began volunteering at the alternative high school in the next small town about 10 minutes from me.Yep teenagers the kewl thing is its all about the creativity baby...Next week we are doing Graffiti on T-shirts..Let me give u all some history of this community..its all about the farming, a factoid is its the corn capital of BC..Mostly Dutch and German is a large makeup of the community.

Now I am going to throw this out which will give u more insight....Have u seen the movie "Pleasantville" if not may I make a suggestion to take a viewing for those of u that haven't experience small town living this movie sums it up in so many ways..ok so I digress moving along I feel at times like I'm of the set of this movie...lets see a combo of some ignorance and stagnation to change wraps it up here although I can laugh about it cause I've had many living experiences in small towns I grin and nod then take myself into my studio to work it out..

On Friday it was a full day of thrifting..Thanx to Tina K who so kindly took me about Chilliwack to show me where many treasures are hidden and I hit pay dirt which helps me bring my pieces into full being.

The next show here at Ranger Station Art Gallery is the Annual Miniature Show

November 4th- November 29th.

yours truly will have a small piece in this show which has limits on the size of piece hence the name..stay tuned for a peek at this show...

The Studio Happenings are as follows:

Friday Nights...Drop in Life Drawing 7-9:30pm All levels welcome

October 16- December

Artist Trading Cards....November 30th 12:30-2:30 pm

Hope Art Gallery

Snow Moon...... November 2 is the Full Moon

Plan for a ritual to work on ridding yourself of negative thoughts and vibrations.

Well All thanx for stopping in,let me know u popped in give a big shout out leave a comment or two....

In Artistic Solidarity;

Rhonda

Pics:
1. Samhain Altar in Living Room

2.Preparing walls for next show

3. Studio Piece in progress!!

4.Hang about Studio Skeleton

In my home i have several altars;

1.Bathtub Altar
2.living room corner altar
3.bedroom altar
4.bedroom 2 altar
5.primary living room altar

Country Roads

2009-10-18T15:18:00.000-07:00

Hola my Dear readers;

Yep here i am as usual these days time got way ahead of me,i haven't forgotten u as u pop in looking for an update on my residency. Its been almost two months that I've been here living and working in Harrison Hot Springs and i gotta say that i continue to love it here for so many reasons. The solitude is a wonderful thing,many of u have asked if I'm beginning to lose it with nothing to do in a very small town and that i must miss the city.In reply to that no,if anything i have settled in to the point that i go into angst over going past Maple Ridge and when i do visit Mission,Chilliwack i am anxious to scurry back to my sanctuary in front of my electric fireplace and put on the quiet that surrounds me here.

What i feel that after being away from the familiar with my work and travels for a year that Harrison has allowed me to integrate all those diverse experiences in a peaceful way inside and out,which was such a struggle for me when i was living in the city,i finally surrendered to the city and was on autopilot until i left there.

My time is pretty committed here in all things art and its a steep learning curve as most things i jump in flying by the seat of my pants.The studio is such a blessing in my life and its all mine!!! my creativity is just a sparking with ideas coming from my dreams,morning walks and morning pages that i write daily. There are times that i have so doubted my process and belief in myself as an artist,Thank you to those that have allowed me to talk it through.

They say be careful what u wish for writing that i am very grateful for this latest experience as it continues to unfold every minute of everyday before my very eyes.Blessed Be.The song "Country roads take me home to the place i belong" by John Denver thus far has been my life here as i speed down one country road after another and being the directionally challenged person that i am,i find such comfort in the country roads ,this comes from my growing up years in the country in New Brunswick...i felt so found on those roads as i do today.

The morning walks are morning wake up rain or shine that i stroll.Whether its a raincoat or a heavy sweater half asleep i begin the walk with my headphones and my head swirling with nothing but lots of thoughts..around me is the landscape that is becoming a part of me and the quiet!!

Visitors have been part of the blessing here for me,i love when my friends come to visit to witness my life here some thinking that i am totally out of my element others feeling I've come home.The studio is a very sacred space that allows everything from my mind,heart and soul to spill out into a creation of some kind or another,what i am learning is to be led by my instinct which is easier said than done as my will gets in the way.

So my dear readers thus far i am living a beautiful creative life out here in the middle of nowhere with some things making sense while some its a work in progress. Thanx so much for the calls,emails and visits they are appreciated. Its time to say see ya as i turn off to go down another country road to my place for today that i belong..

Bright Blessings;
xoxo
Rhonda

Pics:

1.First workshop at the sanctuary

2.pick up of driftwood at Rainbow Falls

3.I went sailing for the very first time with Ernie a local Harrison resident...

4.My creativity..Bingo Shadowbox

5. Sailing trip we docked at Rainbow Falls accessible by boat only

6.This piece I'm submitting to the miniature show here at the gallery its still a work in progress

7.New Show for October being hung

Happenings from Casa De Sanctuary.....

2009-09-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

Hello;
Thanx for stopping in at the Casa,the weather is getting a tad cooler in these parts come sit and i will turn my fireplace to warm you and maybe a cup of Chai to warm your inner self.

Today Sunday September 27th is a month that i have been here with the residency. I continue to believe that time does fly... I am settled in home and studio loving every inch inside and out. The creativity is flowing for which i am so grateful for. Being surrounded by creatives is like breathing fresh air but in my case ideas,thoughts and insights.

My space has been blessed with the diverse presence of friends and blessings of friends,the culinary side of me has spilled out and so i cook for a couple of reasons one being i enjoy cooking/baking and 2. one does not have the ethnic food choices in this neck of the woods which in many ways ends up being a blessing on the pocket book.

I am trying to keep most of my dollars in my community by supporting local businesses,farmers etc and its been interesting thus far with the variety from a cheese farm to a coffee roaster,fresh produce etc..

Thank you for supporting my creative work schedule,upcoming October becomes more about outreach and workshops and the ongoing evolution of my body of work. I will share what that looks like as each piece is being born and document the growth of it.

The Artists Way still receives my daily attention and already i see some creative differences. I am working my way towards my house blessing when my hopes is too see many of u before i go more underground with my body of work and residency responsibilities.

Pics Above:

1.My quiet corner with the view of the water,i write my morning pages from here and just sit and be early on in my day...

2. Goddess to go....Miss Lisa is holding one of my creations that is going to her mother in Edmonton Alberta as a birthday present. Lisa's mom saw a similar piece at Debbie and Lisa's space in Maple Ridge she fell in love with this piece and told me so...now this was a number of years back and lo and behold Lisa's mom will become the proud owner of a goddess to go!!!

3. Ranger Station Art Gallery Reception.....Lindsay Craig standing by one of her funky vases.Lindsay's work was quite enjoyable i enjoyed every day that its been here.

4. My dear dear Cal and Eve visiting from Ontario( Cal is my art mentor)

5&6. Two pieces in progress( the black and white piece will be a shadow box,the door found in an alley will be a light box)

7. sample piece of silk painting made by yours truly

8. OH the joy of creative friends and me having a studio what an awesome mix!!! Cindy teaching me the steps in Silk painting it was a blast!!!

9. Camp Juice a sandcastle workshop for the youth....Unfortunately this year there was to be no major sand sculpture competition.However we had a little tease that would appear people visiting Harrison have enjoyed.

Its a work day today for me in the gallery from 1-5 pm, a fall cool day but the sun is shining with the flow of art seekers steady throughout the gallery doors..I'm a bit worn out with a womyns workshop that i co-facilitated on Saturday...and more workshops to begin in the weeks to come but i gotta tell ya at the time of this writing there's a satisfied grin on my face and a full heart.

Hey let that sun shine in anyway it can.....

Till we meet again;
Rhonda

Settling Inside and Out..............

2009-09-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

Hola;
How are you??? I am alive and kicking here at Casa De Sanctuary!!! that's my name for my new space. why name it u ask...well in my travels last year about Mexico it was something that i noticed, is people would name their places. One of the reasons i observed was some of the places were off the beaten path especially in the jungle and naming it made it easier to ask for directions and the other thing is its personal and a great way to claim your space.

I've been focused on settling into my inside and outside space...its such a pleasure to have more space and truly be able to spread out and to have my very own studio..Those of u just joining me here i lived in Vancouver in a studio apt of 400 sq feet,so doubling my space is like winning the housing lottery.

A frequent question that keeps being asked is aren't u lonely??? hmmm lonely for what and who has time as I've literally been thrown into the residency with deadlines galore plus the beginning process of creating my body of work,i fall into bed most nights at 10pm from exhaustion.

My days begin at 7-730 am with a hour walk around the lake..i roll out of bed throw on my clothes and out the door sleepwalking with my eyes wide open but fuzzy brain.not sure what that will look like when the frequent rains come(groan)

Upon arrival home..tea kettle goes on..computer turned on..tea is ready i sit in my chair by the window looking at the view of the lake..a couple of sips of tea then reach for my notebook as i am doing the Artists Way.one of the components is morning pages(3 pages written about anything)

That's done..tidy up..call my daughter and then tackle computer tasks....Then its Studio Time,which brings me to my work schedule..

In order to gain and create the most from this residency year i have had to implement a focused work schedule. So i am unavailable from 10 am -2 pm Monday-Friday as i create away..

Saturday and Sundays i am at the Gallery from 1 pm-5 pm

Its early into it but i am committed to bringing my creativity forward into reality. Thus far Shadow(the cat) and I are enjoying our beautiful casa.

Please take a look at the above pics and i think they speak for themselves...Thanx so much for reading along as i create....

In Artistic Solidarity;
Rhonda

Pics:

1-3 This is my walk in the mornings as u can see the landscape is breathtaking

4. My bathroom with a clawfoot tub and a goddess blessing the space.(the view from the window, the lake)

5. My beloved studio

6.My office nook and spare bedroom

7.Living room

8.My bedroom

9.Living room with shadow hanging out

10. Kitchen