New Ordinary Days

 The Magic of Ordinary Days

Books and Colors

"The Magic of Ordinary Days" is the title of a lovely romance by Ann Howard, also a TV movie of 2005.  I saw the movie years ago; I don't always gravitate toward romance movies, but I am a fan of historical fiction, lately. The title is a tether to the characters' story lines. Most of the plot involves people trying to find their comfort and rhythm for the lives they have found themselves unexpectedly living. This theme sounds very familiar to the new rhythms from the past year..

2020 has been a great year for slowing down, finding a contemplative routine that is personal, even if not as financially profitable, with a good stack of books, projects, personal health and reconsideration of ordinary days. One might say, this was all forced upon the greater population and while that is true, many other situations have that kind of thrust upon-ness.

I've been more of a solo act for most of my life. This year, I've taken time to walk, run, yoga and meditate. In preparation for online workshops and classes, I've explored the prototypes for classes in much more depth than I had been able to apply in previous years. I've got some inspired work!  I had taken my car in for regular servicing, and the tires really didn't need rotation as I haven't really driven like the crazy person of 2019 and before. Most of my jobs are an hour away, when they are not remote. I am fine driving less, drawing more, watching the day begin and end.

I have taken time to read books from the stacks; historical fiction, some biographies, some art and color theory. The latter has been something I truly need. I don't think my best work happens when my colors are stagnant. I have taken up some painting challenges (not unlike painting without yellow (story there but another time)) I tried new mixes, combinations and color triads.  

I'm really excited about my upcoming projects. I'm super thrilled to have received a few grants for projects- one is a dye documentation of sunrise and sunset with color change and structure pieces, funded by the Artist Support Grant (ASG), a NC Arts Council Grant (facilitated through Yadkin Arts, thanks, again!) . Another is tentatively titled "A Banner Year", with a series of images that are printed on fabric using sketches I've journal-ed through the year.  If all goes as planned, by the time autumn is here, I'll have two exhibits to share in galleries. Joining more exhibits is been on my production agenda, as I present less residencies, choose specific workshops to share instead of regular classroom teaching and invest in more community art.

Here's to a productive, bright and colorful 2021! May all the insights and thoughtful rabbit holes we have been popping in and out of be put to the best use for our next year with a healthy population, a new perspective on our neighborhoods, a clear path to happiness and an economic upturn! Huzzah!! and Cheers!

Please follow me on Facebook, Instagram and visit the shops on Etsy, Square- all listed on my website, http://www.dyecrazy.com. Virtual Festivals are a THING for winter and Spring!!! Thanks for supporting local art