It's In The Genes

It would seem that my daughter is quite the artiste. With one art show down and I presume many more to go, her artistic inclination can be attributed to an entire gene pool of painters, sculptors and writers.

This evening we were invited to an art show featuring masterpieces by a chosen few from my daughter's elementary school. Amidst the drawings of pterodactyls and sponge painted depictions of the moon in its many phases, was my daughter's show stopping windsock. The colors delighted, the composition of the heart arrangement dazzled, and the sturdy paper construction was impressive.

Look out art aficionados, you'll want to clear some space on your wall in the near future.

The Maverick of Crook County

"Maverick" a heroic size bronze was unveiled on Saturday, April 25, 2009 in the Prineville City Hall Plaza.

My father-in-law is a sculptor; and quite an accomplished one at that. His pieces range in size and materials, and have been installed in many states across the U.S. He has two pieces that have been dedicated to the city of Redmond, Oregon: one a steel eagle made of found objects, and the other a life-size bronze of a horse and rider with a yearling cow. And this last weekend I had the great privilege of witnessing the unveiling of his bronze piece "Maverick".

It was all so exciting. Although the weather wasn't the most desirable for being outside as it was overcast and very windy, there was quite a good turn out. A lot of people were there who wanted to see this gift to the city of Prineville, Oregon revealed.

With tarps covering the sculpture (actually two separate pieces), there was an air of mystery. After many festivities, the anticipation was building as family members and friends (including my husband) prepared for the unveiling.

The first tarp came off to reveal a heroic sized stallion. This unbridled horse is the maverick, and is pursued by a master horseman. I thought the wind in the maverick's mane and tail perfectly demonstrated the blustery weather of the day.

Foolishly, we forgot to bring our hats, so wrapping a sweater around our son's head was the perfect solution - if not a little funny looking!

This is a telling shot of the crowd as the sculptor talks about his piece. The Crook County Courthouse stands proudly in the background.

The horseman in hot pursuit.

It was a wonderful day and I was honored to be there. I enjoyed reconnecting with family over victuals, and the sharing of photography tips. I can't wait to see what this talented sculptor will come up with next!

The Art of the Sketch

"Computers are useless. They can only give you answers." - Pablo Picasso

I find this quote to be interesting, and kind of true. It may be strange coming from a designer of websites to agree with Mr. Picasso, but I believe that great design is a product of process, doodling, and exploration. While computers are valuable tools, they do not replace the importance of the handwritten word or sketch.

When I was taking graphic design classes at Oregon State University, we were required to keep a design journal. At the time I was not that interested in researching and journaling about Paul Rand or writing down my design inspirations, but now I really see the benefit. Today I keep binders for all of my clients; complete with contact information, project information, and hand sketches of logos, website layouts, etc. It is valuable to look back at my original ideas because they will often spur new ideas.

A great notebook for such sketches is a Moleskine - my mom got me hooked on these. My notebook of choice is the Moleskine Pocket Sketch Notebook (3.5 x 5.5). It fits in my purse and has a pocket to keep receipts, photos, or whatever. I have paint swatches and old concert tickets in mine. I like it because it makes my random doodlings look important. Here is a peek into my own journal as I was working on a redesign for my business:

I like to make lists of the desired visual qualities and components of a design.

Here I made sketches of logo ideas, and labeled the attributes for each design.

My sketches are a simple and orderly. However, if you want to truly be impressed, go to http://www.moleskineus.com/moleskine-stories.html. I am amazed and inspired by the artwork of others. I often wish I had more time to just sit in a coffee shop and sketch.