KMHendrickson's Scratchboards

Stampbord

2012-01-30T22:04:00.000-08:00

I do a small ATC (Artist Trading Card) exchange, once a quarter. I sold my saw, so I'm not able to cut boards down to the correct size anymore (2 1/2 x 3 1/2). I remembered someone saying something about Stampbords. Well, they're white, but otherwise, they're the right size and they're Ampersand. So, I ordered some. This is my first one. I just experimented. I did have a photo to work from but just eyeballed it. I worked loose (another rarity for me) with Derwent Inktense, Watercolor, and Graphitint pencils and some other things hanging around. I'm working hard on several other scratchboards but this was a lightweight. I sort of like it and will be experimenting with it some more.

Lauren's Dogs, the beginning

2012-01-17T09:36:00.000-08:00

I am so sorry I'm so far behind, but I've finally got it started. This is Lauren's black and white. I had to color the eyes right away, I find it unnerving to see these white orbs staring at me. They've got a long way to go, I just needed some color in them. Off to scratch more and have breakfast before going to work.

Pastel

2012-01-09T17:15:00.001-08:00

I havent done pastels in over 20 years, here's one of my early ones.

Darla

2012-01-07T13:11:00.000-08:00

Life, as usual, seems to have been in a state of flux. However, I was able to finally finish this piece. I'll be delivering it today. 5x5 Ampersand with watercolor.

Darla and Pochacho

2011-12-03T20:29:00.001-08:00

This is a work in progress, among many of the others I have going. Thank you everyone, I'm scratching as much as I can. It's a small piece, but it's fun.

On Monday, I become a foster mom for Pochacho. He's in rescue and has been fostered. He's gorgeous and sounds like he'd be wonderful...I wonder if he's going to end up staying with me. This is a first for me, but I've wanted to do Senior Dog rescue for a long time...I love the older ones.

Spunky, Continued

2011-11-22T13:13:00.001-08:00

I've been very pleased to work on Spunky these few days off. Here's an update...the ears are really helping. Right now, the eyes look a little off, but it's shading. Able to really put some time into it due to the high winds and storm.

Christmas Deer

2011-11-16T23:36:00.001-08:00

I participate in a trading card exchange every year. The group is, unfortunately, getting smaller and smaller. This time, the Christmas Exchange, I drew the gal that has been organizing this exchange for the past few years. She is a superb artist in her own right. I wanted to do something for her that was extra special, but since she lives in the Netherlands, I have to get it off to her very quickly to get there in time for Christmas. Size is 3.5 x 5 inches. I'm also going to create prints and a christmas card out of it. The baby has a heart shape on his/her nose and I'm going to make it Red.

Spunky went to Crafts on the Coast

2011-11-07T09:42:00.000-08:00

Finally, good things have been happening. I passed probation and am now a full-time employee. I was at an arts and crafts show all weekend. It was my best show ever. I brought Spunky to work on and got a lot done. There's still a long way to go. I am very pleased with what is done though, he's really becoming an excellent example of how far I've come on this medium. I was also invited to participate in the Highland Games next year as a vendor, but...they require 50% celtic and they want me to do dogs. I don't think they understand how long it takes me to do one of these, but I'll give it my best show.

Chip

2011-10-05T21:12:00.000-07:00

Uh Oh, she's sneaking into my heart, big time.

Spunky, the picture continues

2011-10-05T21:04:00.000-07:00

Burrr, winter is coming. I broke down tonight and put the little portable heater in the kitchen and hung the sheet so just the kitchen stays warm and I'm not trying to heat the whole house. Anyway, the scratching started out rough, but once it warmed up, it smoothed right out. I'm also playing around with a shammie (recommended by another scratcher) and like how it smooths out some of the rough lines (she recommended it for skin). The only distraction tonight was my kitten "Chip" being attached by the plastic bag she was playing with...she looked like a comet streaking away when it grabbed her by the leg, a little black/silver ball of fur with a white tail comet behind her. Fortunately it released (only stuck on her foot) very quickly but it was the perfect length of time to settle her down for the rest of the night. Back to the Spunky Man, I can see he's going to need a lot more scratching to get him as white as he is, but it will get easier and easier.

Karen

More Muzzle

2011-10-02T10:32:00.000-07:00

Lips, Lips, Lips

2011-10-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

Shading is very difficult here, or maybe I'm just getting old and can't see as well.

Spunky's Nose

2011-10-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

Noses are difficult. There's so much detail and shading and it's such a remarkable organ.

Spunky 1

2011-10-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

I started with the eye. Since he is so light, I started coloring him right away to help me keep everything aligned.

Spunky

2011-09-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

Spunky just had his 15th birthday and his owner asked me to do a picture of him. Since I've known him forever, and just love both him and Sue (and Bella by picture), I agreed. I started tonight, with the eyes because if I nail the eyes, I can be forgiven anything. Spunky is predominantly white, but there's shades and shades of white. Here we go, I'll post a picture later. 8x10 black ampersand museum quality scratchbord.

Looong Time Ago

2011-09-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

I have been busy, so to speak; desperately trying to survive. I'm still working on it, but have some hope for the future at the moment. I've lost 57 pounds, amazing what happens when you can't afford to eat, isn't it? I lost Red in April to Kidney Failure. I so miss my heart dog, he was such a shooting star and I'm glad I got to bask in his fire. Love you, Red.

I've started back working on some artwork. Here's two of the Black and Tan Series. The first one is Parker, and the second is a dog called Sam. Both pieces are 5x5.

Blade

2011-03-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

Another of my Pay it Forward pieces. Less than 2 x3 inches. I saw one photo of this old guy, got permission to use it and here he is. He passed several weeks ago. I am sending it to the owner if she wants it. I'd be more than happy to do something like this for you too.

Dave's Kitten

2011-03-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

I sat the gallery at the Wine Place in Yachats yesterday. It's a great place to go for all your wine needs and Carrie Yano, the owner, might even listen to you Whine for a while. Anyway, I had two small paintings I wanted to finish up, but, I got all tangled up with a new piece. The Scratchboard group is forming a new society, the International Society of Scratchboard Artists (ISSA). All I can say is that the ante has been upped as far as the quality and I'm slowing down but working harder. (I'm also looking for work again).

Dave is the maintenance guy at the apartments I've just left, but he's also the Maintenance guy at the apartments where I'm the assistant. (I've discovered I make a great assistant, just call me Babalouie). Anyway, Dave has been so kind and is so nice, that I'm doing this piece of his cat. He gave me two great pictures, but I really liked is kitten in a drawer. Here's the start.

It's going to be 8x10.

HN Sketch

2011-01-15T18:46:00.000-08:00

Here's the latest in my pay it forward series, Hob Nob Paint the Town Red. 2.5 x 3.5 inches....very pleased with this one, especially the eye. I think it's the best eye I've ever scratched.

Finn

2011-01-12T13:35:00.000-08:00

I got in a challenge to do five pieces of handcrafts for unknown people and surprise them. This is the first and the next will be one of Jan's dogs. This is a puppy she just bred, and He now lives in Orlando with his new mom, Molly. It is ATC sized.

Cabbage Rose, Revisited

2011-01-10T20:42:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post the second and final one. I'm pleased but still prefer the black and white.

For Kicks and Grins Occasionally

2011-01-10T20:33:00.000-08:00

I belong to a group that does an exchange of artist trading cards. I've gotten Larry before and really admire his work and his persistence. He likes starlets so I decided to do one. However, I don't have television and have no idea what's out there. When you search the internet for starlets you get some very strange things. I decided to make one one. On wet canvas, there've been several artists experimenting with graphite on the white scratchboards. So, I figured I'd experiment...it didn't last very long before I whipped out the inks and painted and scratched. However, I did leave all the skin in graphite which makes her a very strange starlet. I know Larry will love her. I did give her a great title too..."Do You Like My New Shoes?" There're are no feet involved and I'm sure her heels would be very round, he he.

This One is a Bust

2011-01-07T20:09:00.000-08:00

I'm behind on my resolution to do a piece a day. I thought I'd get caught up today but ended up spending a lot of time on this ATC. Then, I didn't like it colored and scratched the whole board clean. Fortunately, the artists on Wet Canvas have given me some ideas and I'm going to work on it again. I think the idea has merit, even if the piece did not meet my standards.

I watched the Georgia O'keef video that's out. I didn't think I was super-impressed with the movie, or the story of her life, but, I was influenced. Back to the drawing board tomorrow.

Deranged Kitty

2011-01-03T22:07:00.000-08:00

I don't know if this one is done or not, I'm going to sit on it for a while. I sandpapered it twice and ended up following my motto "Persistence Pays", and kept on going.

Flamingo 2

2011-01-03T10:50:00.000-08:00

The sun is shining in the window and between that and the old monitor I have, the screen is almost invisible. Anyway, here's the second flamingo, completed. I used pigment colors in combination with some acrylic paint and ink. The colors are wonderful with lots of shine and depth which the camera cannot pick up in the middle of the night. Come to think of it, it's sunny out so I could go outside and take another picture.

More Howlite Art, Crow 2 and Flamingo 2

2011-01-01T19:09:00.000-08:00

I'm doing the Flamingo as a larger version and trying out some new ideas. I'm letting it sit tonight and will finish it tomorrow. I used some pigments instead of ink and paint and really like what came through, it sparkles in real life.

I had a different Flamingo pose picked out. No matter what I did, it looked awful. That's when I discovered you can remove the permanent ink with sandpaper and an exacto, or fiberglas brush. Cool. I totally scraped off the painting I had done and started over with the same bird. The rock just said it was the perfect picture. Tomorrow, I'll put the black ink, in.

This is another pose of the crow that I used to feed, Marvin. He was such a neat bird, he was right outside in this picture, expecting his treats, and yes, he walked like that, he knew he was top bird.

The other crow piece has sold, but this crow is currently available. Oh yes, I got rid of the golden retriever, gonna do a border collie puppy on it instead for another friend.

Flamingo

2010-12-25T18:25:00.000-08:00

Another tiny one..made for a neighbor. However, one of the other neighbors at the dinner took it home so I'll be doing another one tonight for the first neighbor. It was a great Christmas, surrounded by good friends, good humor, and good food. A very "kind" holiday.

The Crow and the Golden Retriever

2010-12-24T20:48:00.000-08:00

I'm still experimenting with the Howlite rock. The Golden Retriever is only about an inch in diameter and the crow is under three inches. The crow's name is Marvin. When I had the store, we used to feed them and several seagulls. The crows were a distinct family unit and Marvin was a big, gorgeous bird with eyebrows. He had rainbows in his feathers, sort of like an oil slick and everyone treated him with respect. I watched him smack a seagull (and the western gulls are big here) into the ground and tap dance on his/her head. I miss him since the store is gone. There were three seagulls we could recognize, Caca Zabor (mean and nasty, liked to bite other birds and pull feathers), Gabby Hayes (never stopped making comments), and Robert Gullet (ate a mini muffin and you could see it in his throat.

The crow is sold.

Parker on Marble

2010-12-22T18:19:00.000-08:00

I'm really liking playing with this stuff...here's my next piece. For some strange reason, I cannot get it to lighten to what it actually is so I may do another photo in the morning in natural light. I experimented with some color this time and discovered I can scratch it. I don't know if I can treat it like scrimshaw yet, maybe some of the darker pieces. It is available.

Kale on Marble

2010-12-22T12:30:00.000-08:00

A neighbor and friend gifted me with some slabs. She showed me what she had done with them. I've been very intrigued but trying to stay with the straight and narrow. However, I couldn't help myself and did a small piece. I have another experiment scheduled to today that's going to be about the same size or slightly smaller....I'm going for color this time. Done with a very fine point ink quill, I present to you...my brilliantly titled "Kale", cause that's what it is, not roses. This piece is three inches by three inches at it's longest points. At this point it is for sale, but I don't think I could get it shipped anywhere in a timely manner...it could be a late gift though. e-mail me at obedec@gmail.com.

The Pelican

2010-12-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

A conch (konk, in oregonese) painted. I've been planning this for a while and I LIKE it. It is available for sale. Sorry, it's sold. But I'll be doing more.

A Force to be Reckoned With

2010-12-09T20:07:00.000-08:00

A very common resident here on the coast. A Juvenile Western Gull. These guys are big, and they have attitude. Sometimes not the smartist or most opportunistic, but the youngsters are gorgeous with the speckles and markings. It gives them character.

Cheka's Aussie

2010-12-08T20:31:00.000-08:00

Cheka wants an extreme close-up...very soft, but emphasizing the ice blue eyes. I think I've got it...it takes a lot to turn scratchboard soft, so I scratched the whole thing in detail, and now, using ink and a fiberglass brush, he's becoming soft.

Bemused

2010-11-29T14:33:00.000-08:00

I had some leftover sections of board, so I cut them in sort of an atc size. There'd been a series of photos on WC of the Gypsy Vanner stallion called Percy. I've got artwork to do but decided to go ahead and mess with one of his photos. I started scratching it out, but it just wasn't working. I dug around and found a fiberglass brush and voila, there was the horse....on black. It was yucky. So, I scraped the whole background off. Well, plain white was no better than plain black. I hunted down my paints. Suddenly, I really liked it. It turned into one of those "bemused" pieces, i.e., did I do that? Yep, I sure did.

This one is available, and I'll probably frame it in a few minutes. E-mail me for details at obedec@gmail.com

Almost done

2010-11-17T19:56:00.000-08:00

Just got to put some shading back in, and then rescratch the areas so it looks real.

Update

2010-11-17T10:04:00.000-08:00

It looks like a pretty nasty storm coming in today so I'll spend the rest of the day working on this and organizing my job hunting paperwork. It's a shame that jobs are so scarce that the employers can pick and choose all their relatives or those who put out over competent workers. There's easily over a hundred applicants for each job. Sigh. I'm focusing on making my art sell, weird idea, but I don't seem to have a choice.

Anyway, here's the latest update. I hope to have her finished today so better get to it.

Another Update

2010-11-16T08:32:00.000-08:00

Here's what I worked on last night.

Next Work in Progress

2010-11-15T17:46:00.000-08:00

Here she is, I think the neck/chest area is done for the moment. I will be going back and correcting the shading.

Golden Retriever

2010-11-15T09:27:00.000-08:00

I've had a busy summer, but alas, the winter is here and I'm out of work. So, I've focused on the Holday Markets and I've made a whopping $10, which I promptly spent on great coffee from Old River Coffee (try it, he's got a web site), and great bakery goods, so much for the bologna sandwich I brought, eh?

Anyway, while I was at the last market, one of the vendors brought in her Golden Retriever. Not a Classic Show Dog but a very lovely girl with a wonderful personality. She was young, but a very sincere dog that wants to do everything right. I had my camera and took some reference photos. Well, I had to start her. I have three or four other pieces to finish, but this one caught my interest. If it turns out nice enough, I may enter it at Art Show at the Dog Show (like, where do I find the entry fee), or just put it up for sale. I'll also have prints available.

I have lots of projects today, so I'd better get this posted.

Bookmarks

2010-08-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

I took my prototype bookmarks to a few people I know....got rave reviews. Photos soon, have to work on some more. Stay tuned!

Cat In a Box

2010-07-01T20:02:00.001-07:00

I entered an artist blog contest to get a 5x7 portrait done....I won!!! Stay tuned, Red should appear soon on a screen near you.

I worked on the landlord's lawn today. What a nightmare. The grass was waist high. I had to use my weekwacker through all of it, then rake, then mow. It still needs more work, but looks much much better.

Back to work tomorrow!

Fudge Slinging

2010-06-28T20:21:00.000-07:00

One of the jobs performed at the aquarium gift shop is selling fudge. I have a knack for it and enjoy luring people over to try a superb product. The other day, I wrote a poem about it. Just for fun.

Slinging fudge could be a drudge
Unless you're at the Aquarium
Employees sell with glee
But only at the Aquarium
No pouts or sulks, just smiles you see
From employees
Who sell Fudge
At the Aquarium
So come and see,
The employees
who sell the Fudge
At the aquarium

The trills of birdies
The glimpse of squirrellies
All pale, next
To the employees
Who sell the Fudge
At the Aquarium

They sell Ice Cream
But those held in Esteem
Are the Smiling Employees
Who sell the Fudge
At the Aquarium

The Lunch Meat

2010-06-28T07:22:00.000-07:00

My neighbor and friend looks after my dogs when I'm working. (Yeah!!! I have a job!!!!). Anyway, this is a missive she left me the other day. I love her writing and wish she would do more.

Karen:

Your sandwich meat is no longer edible. Though I did manage to salvage a bit of it.

The event happened this way:

I got the boys out for a potty break and then went into the living room to read so

they could have some out of the crate time. It was very quiet, I soon noticed. As

a parent, I learned early on that too much quiet is probably a problem. I called

Paker and he did not respond. I put down my book and went to the kitchen. He had

the package of sandwich meat in his mouth and was trying with all his effort to eat

the sandwich meat, package and all. Red was observing.

I grabbed Parker by the nape and told him to drop it. He clamped his teeth down on

the package and gulped trying to swallow it before he had to really drop it. I

reaffirmed my grasp of the nape and tried with the other hand to prize his mouth

open. The harder I pried the more clamped his teeth became. I kept prying and

telling him to drop it, but it was not very effective because by now I was

giggling and nearly wetting my pants. Red was observing.

Finally I got a little bit of the meat out of Parker's mouth and it dropped to the

floor. Red ceased observing at this point and lunged for the scrap of meat. Parker

let go the package and lunged for the scrap, too. By then there were several scraps

of the meat on the floor and both boys were sucking the scraps up as fast as they

could.

When the scraps were all eaten and what remained of the package of sandwich meat was

put out of harm's way. Red walked regally over to his crate and got in. Parker

looked around for more scraps and then looked around for what was left of the

package. I assured him that (1) there was no more sandwich meat for him and (2) I

was definitely telling on him. During this conversation, Red was observing from his

crate. His halo firmly in place.

Parker cruised the counter top a bit longer --- hopefully, no doubt --- I told him

to leave it and he came into the living room and lay down on the skins and went to

sleep. Obviously tired after that struggle.

At any rate you have no more lunch meat, unless you are into eating the shards.

New Business Card

2010-03-21T08:47:00.000-07:00

A photographer I know took this picture at a recent show we were at together. I absolutely love it and think it will be perfect as my new business card. I had just created another which was a small montage of my work and a photo of me in the middle, but I think this one says it better.

Silver Scratchboard Continued

2010-03-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

The Wolf didn't come through.
Both of these are available for purchase. Please contact me at obedec@gmail.com

Silver Scratchboard

2010-03-09T09:21:00.000-08:00

This is a fun toy, but I just cannot take it seriously although I remember one time doing a silver English Cocker with a brushed aluminum frame...it was extreme dramatic. However, I'm just feeling the need to do something and am working on a complicated board right now, so whipped these two up in the last two days, they don't take long at 21/2 x 3 1/2inches and it's very hard to make the shaded so I don't try, I let the lighting do the work.
Best
Karen

16th Century Canvas

2010-03-01T20:39:00.000-08:00

Today I was able to get up close and personal to a 16th century canvas. I've never looked at an oil portrait so closely. The depth was spectacular. The individual that was painted had the most beautiful eyes. On close examination, you could tell that the hands were done by two different people. The right one was a good size for the body and face, the left was deformed and smaller. The feet were also too small. It's covered with a lot of dirt and grime, but at one time was a beautiful piece of work. I'll dream about those eyes tonight.

The Princess Dress Finished

2010-02-14T08:13:00.000-08:00

I think I'm calling her done.

The Princess Dress

2010-02-13T18:43:00.000-08:00

A different piece for me. I really liked the drama and swirl of the dress.

Procrastination. Prespiration, and Presentation

2010-02-06T19:33:00.000-08:00

> The room was lovely and crafters and artists were allowed to take whatever spots they wanted. Lighting and visibility were perfect for any of them. You backed onto windows which, in the evening with the reflection, showed you how big your butt is, or how many rolls you have, and how messy you may or may not have been behind the drapes of the table, total exposure. There were volunteers there to help if you needed someone to watch your table while you ran out for a minute. Parking was a dream.

>

> I made business cards, forgot the holder. I made a little flyer, did not proof (last minute you know), and left out a crucial word. They did not get put on the table when I spotted that. I dressed very nice, wore make up, curled hair. Got there way too late, should have probably been there an hour earlier (was busy make business cards and bad flyers).

>

> A few things I forgot....change, cash box, credit card machine, bags, guest book, receipt book. I did bring a piece that was almost finished and finished him in about 15 minutes. So, since I work mostly in scratchboard, I basically engaged customers by taking a poll as to whether he should have color added or not. (It's a singing kitten and would have colored eyes, nose and tongue). The border collie picture got a lot of discussion too. I did work my conversation skills on the very limited audience, yet an audience that was there specifically for pet portraits. I did not get names, addresses, promises of future work or commissions.

>

> I berated myself all the way home, did the "get out of art conversation", "you should have been prepared conversation", but one thing I did not doubt, what I had there WAS beautiful work. I donated a t-shirt that I've never been able to sell and it was bought.

>

> So, this morning, in the harsh light of day, I say to myself, did I enjoy myself...yes, was I prepared...no. But I have a two day show coming up next weekend...will this all be rectified...most of it, and will I have a better handle on things, you bet, I'm still smarting from this one.

Another White Board

2010-01-26T17:13:00.000-08:00

This board is near and dear to my heart. It's of Red, aka Merrydown Mr. Persistence, CD, CGC, my current heart dog. I was thrilled on the 20th because he was 12 years old and I thought, cancer free. I took him in today and his cancer has come back. It also looks like it has metastasized to his lungs. He's doing fine at the moment and the vet says he can do lazer surgery to get the bulk of the tumor burned off. I'm opting for pallative care. I didn't know this when I started the picture, was just doing a batch for boutique for the National, guess I have to start over because I don't know if this picture will leave me. It's only a 5x5, done on white ampersand claybord using derwent Inktense colored pencils, graphitint pencils and watercolor pencils.
Karen

Outside the Box

2010-01-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

It's a new year. I'm thinking outside the box in a way to get funds in and my sweet, smiling face out there. I have several ideas for art and put one of them onto clayboard the last two evenings. Here is my ATC sized elephant (2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches) on a white claybord (it's still a scratchboard) using graphitint pencils. I have more ATCs to put up also, later, after I cut them (I used a big board) so stay tuned.

New Year's Resolutions

2010-01-09T22:14:00.000-08:00

I did my New Year's Resolutions differently this year. My neighbor, Linda, no longer drives so I take her wherever she wants to go. On Sunday's we do the grocery store in Newport. It's about 20 miles away. For the drive, we take a notebook and discuss ideas, and plans. So, I broke up my New Year's resolution to, weekly, monthly, and yearly goals. My weekly goal is to do three atcs (artist trading cards 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches). I finished my three tonight. They're of a juvenile pigeon guillemot (an Auk and type of Murre), i.e., a seabird. I also try to start a different size board that I do not give myself a time limit for. Next week, it's either wolves or pelicans, I'll decide in the morning. Here's the "extra" piece I'm working on. The guillemot photo did not come out tonight so I'll re-photograph it tomorrow after I've sprayed it.

I Love Border Collies

2010-01-04T21:18:00.000-08:00

I love Border Collies, especially the Hob Nob BCs. I know I don't have the temperament to live with one properly (unless it's extremely elderly), but I do enjoy their intensity, energy, and personalities. A BC person posted a photo she had taken of her BC and granted me permission to draw it. It's magical. I'm doing a 5x7 on an 8x10 board. Here's the first work in progress.

New Years Resolution-Alison Stanfield

2010-01-02T11:38:00.000-08:00

Today is the second. Last night, I did take the time to open Alison Stanfield's book "I'd Rather Be In the Studio" and read the first chapter. Tonight I will take action on it.

Wire Fox Terrier and Commissions

2009-12-24T06:50:00.000-08:00

My commissions are gone, all winging their way to their new homes. I learned a lesson while working on these. An artist is always learning, changing. I took nearly a year to do these and my style changed, subtly, but it changed. It left me not as pleased with my art as I originally had planned. I couldn't put my finger on what I disliked and another artist said something about dusting off a two year old board and it came to me, your style is still there, but you change.

Anyway, I got to meet one of the dogs that I had drawn. Her name is Molly and she is a 17 year old Wire Fox Terrier. I love this piece, but did spend every spare moment (and a few not so spare moments) on it this week. I'm very happy with it and am gifting the original to the owners for Christmas. Prints will be available for sale.

Emma

2009-10-12T19:42:00.000-07:00

Just a few more tweaks and she's done. It's been a long time since I blogged, life has been lobbing cannon balls at me. My little store is hanging in there and all I can say is I have a multitude of wonderful people that I can call friends, who show interest and support in what I do...more than I can say of family.

I recieved a personal invitation to participate in the Boomer Bash. It's a fund-raiser for medical expenses of the local shelter animals. It's quite the event. I've never been able to afford to attend. This time, I'm an invited artist.

Emma is the first of a bunch I'm going to make for the Bash and have available for sale. She's the neighbor's cat, quite a looker and very communicative. I also have prints available. She's an 8x10 and the only things colored are her eyes and nose. Everything else is pure scratchboard.

Karen

Toby The West Highland White Terrier

2009-06-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

Toby brought his owners into the shop today. He's a "first" dog for them. What a champ and ambassador for the breed. He was so friendly and outgoing and so absolutely adorable for a four month old puppy. I got some great photos and hope his owners contact me for high resolution copies. Not soon, but this year, I'm sure he'll be a portrait.

Karen

Lion Fish wip 6

2009-05-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

Lion Fish Wip 4

2009-05-11T08:23:00.001-07:00

Lion Fish

2009-05-05T08:35:00.001-07:00

The Lion Fish

2009-05-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

I have a commission to finish up, but have been captivated by these guys at the Aquarium. 12 x12 board.

The Aquarium

2009-04-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

I also managed to get a summer job (on top of everything else...when you're starving, ya know) at the Oregon Coast Aquarium Gift Shop. I spend every spare minute taking photos. Right now, the main exhibit is Oddwater. This is an exhibit of all the strange underwater animals you can find in the ocean. I'm taking loads of pictures.

Karen

Cash

2009-04-17T08:47:00.000-07:00

Starting an Aussie picture. I was not happy with the initial start on this one. It's hard to explain but it was not exciting me, and when a piece does not get me excited, it can take a long time. So I had some free time last night to really sit and analyze what was not reaching me. I may finish it at some time as an exercise to stretch my imagination, but not right now. I started a new picture of Cash, one that focuses on his face and especially his eyes. Eyes are extremely important to me. So here is the first work in progress and I can't wait to work on him tonight.

Karen

Lion and a Dime

2009-03-19T20:37:00.001-07:00

Here's another ATC I just finished. I have prints of this one and the original is available.

Pattie Playpal

2009-03-19T20:32:00.000-07:00

I drew a good name for my ATC exchange. I know Jen's likes and dislikes and I know she has co-authored a book on this doll. I googled until I found a picture I could work with. This ATC is 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 inches.

Dean Johnson Gallery

2009-03-04T18:37:00.000-08:00

It's finally happening. "Scratching the Surface" is opening March 6 at the Dean Johnson Gallery. I really appreciate the group on Wet Canvas for all their efforts to make this happen. I really hope all three of my pieces are hung and sell. I could really use the money. I will be working larger for the next show, though.
Karen

"The Sign"

2009-02-27T20:38:00.001-08:00

I hope this works. This is the sign for the International show in Chicago. I'm the Nautilus. I'm so excited to be included in a show with this quality.

Karen

The Blankie

2009-02-17T20:17:00.000-08:00

This one is for Charles and Kara in Oregon. They won the donation I gave to Pug Rescue. They're actually going to end up with two pieces instead of one with both of their dogs on it. This one came out beautifully. Not my usual style and I really agonized over the image to start with. Now, I'm very thrilled with it and will be making cards and prints out of it, please contact me for prices and sizes.

Karen

English Robin, Revisited, I think

2009-02-12T18:35:00.000-08:00

I tweaked the color a bit and here (s)he is again.

Karen

Pug Picture

2009-02-12T18:32:00.000-08:00

Here's a Pug picture I've been working on. Different composition than what I'm used to, but I'm liking it a lot. 5x7, #11 exacto knife, although tonight, I'm getting out the scoop for the design of the spread around the muzzle.

Karen

Baby and Parents

2009-02-08T19:40:00.000-08:00

Not the best photo, not completely done, but will be done by Tuesday.

Karen

English Robin

2009-02-01T09:37:00.001-08:00

I'm getting stuff ready for a show in Chicago. It really shows how disorganized I am, I have information I need to send off and cannot find it, so have to re-do it again. I also need to get my artist statement and biography written, and find myself procrastinating. Well, I actually put laundry away, so that's a step in the right direction. I'll also get on this blog more. This is important to me.

Here's a little one that just begged to be done so rather than work on something more tedious I worked on this the other evening. It probably took me about two hours to do. It's an English Robin. The photo was taken by the spectacular pencil/graphite artist Nigel Fuller, from England. It's always wonderful to get a photo from an artist, they know what you're looking for when you start to draw something, no black blob areas or indistinct little fuzzies.

Thanks for looking, he is available for $100 to the first bidder. This includes shipping.

Karen

The Nautilus

2009-01-18T20:18:00.001-08:00

A new piece that is on it's way to Ohio for inclusion in a show in Chicago.

New Day, New Year

2009-01-01T19:48:00.000-08:00

At last, 2008 is over. I'm so glad. I will not dwell on what has past, but what is going to happen in the future. I've got lots of things planned, all of them concerning art or scratchboard. I need to create, create, and create and celebrate Red and Parker and the job they bring into my life. There's a wonderful winter storm outside, gale force winds and buckets of rain, but it's warmer than it has been and the waves are so beautiful....difficult to photo, but beautiful. I and friends went to the Adobe for lunch, my neighbor has trouble doing dinner meals (it's past her bedtime) but this worked out perfectly. I was given a huge steel table which has occupied my whole afternoon. I'm throwing stuff out and rearranging what I do have for ease of use and practicality.
Until tomorrow,
Karen

A Dog for Christmas

2008-12-03T22:32:00.000-08:00

Sissie is almost done. I think she's perfect for a Christmas Present and the best way to get a dog under the tree. She's 20x16, and done with irridescent watercolors. I can see I need to tweak the nose some more and then I'll be framing her on Friday (I hope...depends on if I have the frame). I'm so thrilled with this one, I hate to say it, but I think it's my best yet.

Karen

Facets of the Artist Statement

2008-12-03T12:55:00.000-08:00

As I promised, even though it was suppose to be on the store blog, today's post.

In the store, I do framing. I do not have much space and so do not keep a lot of supplies around. It takes me longer to frame something, but my goal is to work with the local artists and we're a pretty laid back bunch.

So, just recently, a lady that I'd met at a show, (she was volunteering for the Humane Society), brought me a piece to mat. it was already framed, but had a white mat. She liked the white, but thought it washed out a lot of the color on this very pastel-ish print. I had a light brown, textured mat I put on it that made the sand dunes pop. When she brought it in, I'm afraid I had not paid attention to the artist, just to what would make this piece look better. As I was matting it, I realized that not only did I know the name, but have spent quite a bit of spare time in this artist's presence. She's a friend and I actually have other pieces of her work hanging in the store for sale! When the person came to pick up the piece, I told her I knew the artist and shared some of the small vignettes about what a neat "person" she was, how loving and how giving, and such a good friend. She left clutching a treasure, not a painting because she now knew that this artist was a living, breathing person that she might have talked to or passed on the street. I'm going to be talking to that artist today and requesting an artist statement of some sort that I can pass on, along with the paintings of hers that are for sale here. I might be preaching to the choir, but, and don't get me wrong, I don't have one yet, either, I think an artist's statement might be a very necessary facet of living the artist's life and selling your artwork.
Karen

Learning Curve

2008-12-02T22:39:00.000-08:00

I went to an internet class tonight, taught by two of the top webmasters in Lincoln County. There was also a plug for SHOP LOCAL. I did get the t-shirt. Anyway, one thing I learned was that if you have a blog, you have to keep it updated. So, here's my promise to try and update this everyday.
We have a new table in the shop. It's a delightful dark, yet rich wood, with a New Home Treadle base. We'll also be setting up the Beta Max in the morning, right after I get back from picking up framing supplies in the morning. The story with the table and Beta is my neighbor, George, may he rest in peace. George died several weeks ago, now. He was only 62. A small guy, but very private. My neighbor, Bill, is slowly going through his stuff and Shorebirds will be the receipient of some of it. I talked to Bill, tonight. George never threw anything away. He has stuff in his apartment (which they're keeping rented through December so they don't have to rush) from 1970. He had no family, and very few close friends. I'm glad Shorebirds will be getting some of the stuff he treasured, we'll treat it with respect and try to find homes where it will become a treasure again.
The moral of my story here, is, why store all the stuff that someone will throw out when you're gone...save the best and get the rest to a new home. Perhaps, coming into Shorebirds, where we'll treat your stuff as the treasure it is, and find it a new home to both our benefit.
Happy de-stuffing.
Karen

Saturday, June 21 (I think)

2008-06-21T20:56:00.000-07:00

I got to man the store today while Pat visited with Kids in Portland (Happy Birthday Sara). Sara is our IT expert and Pat took the computer up for a little tweaking. I guess Alex (Pat's grandson) and Rudy (Shop Dog) got along famously, i.e., toddler drops food, dog eats food, dog follows toddler everywhere.

At the shop, there was a nice steady flow of visitors. Many were in hysterics at the comments made by the "Perfect Man" doll in the shop and I had some small visitors rolling on the floor with the resident "Tickle Me Elmo".

There was a great car show, parade and all sorts of events going on. Lots of fun things to do in the sleepy little town of Waldport. The weather didn't hold up, we had a few sunbreaks but it's drizzle this evening.

See you tomorrow, oh wait, I wanted to share one more picture with you. The Brown Pelicans were migrating through last week and I managed to snag this shot. Is this cool or what? Tomorrow I'll start talking about our Vendors, our foundation and our favorite people.

Karen

Bobcat

2008-01-27T21:20:00.000-08:00

I just found this piece under some other stuff. I started it in November and never finished. He's finished now, he he.

Karen

Black and Tan Pomeranian

2008-01-23T20:35:00.000-08:00

This is part of a duo I'm working on. This one, fortunately gave me no issues and came out very nice. My other one has been dubbed a Grizzly Bear and I am having trouble convincing anyone it's really a pomeranian, so, it's gone to the fire pit and I'm re-doing the whole pic.

This was a private commission. I felt so bad about the Grizzly Bear that I gave her free framing, and I'm still going to do a do-over. Client satisfaction is extremely important, and she works for the newspaper. Don't want to get on the wrong side of the newspaper in a small town like this one.

8x10 Black Ampersand Scratchbord.

My Prince

2007-10-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

A 5x7. I saw the photo and saw the potential of a great expression. I was mulling over what to name him if he turned out and voila, a wisecrack was made that named him. I guess I'm committed (or should be now). I'm having to do an almost pointillism effect to get the bumps and smooth areas in and I'm liking him in black and white, I may not color him.

He makes me laugh.

Karen

Zen

2007-10-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

she's done. 18x24

nfs...commission

Shows, Shows and More Shows and a Wip

2007-09-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

Summer is over and the farmer's markets with them. I cannot say that they were very profitable, but they were interesting. However, I have upcoming shows:

Sept 28 and 29...Coastal Artisans, D'Lake School Lincoln City (Juried)

Oct 6 and 7...Pleine Air Festival, Taft District, Lincoln City

Oct 11-14...Eugene Home Show! (Juried)

Nov 2 and 3, Crafts on the Coast (Juried)

Dec 1 and 2, Elks Christmas

Dec 11 and 12, Old Geezers (Juried)

I'm actually picking up a little work and framing jobs to the tune of about one a week. Just did some business cards for someone.

I have two commissions to finish and am going to post a pastel I've been playing with.

Gypsy Vanner

2007-09-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

Created for a friend who does a lot of travelling. It's an ACEO size, but done on the 5x7 ampersand board. I'll try to get a better scan of it later.

A Day at the Renaissance Festival

2007-09-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

I have other work to finish, but had to slip this one in last night. I went to the Renaissance Festival yesterday. I haven't been to one in a couple of years. It was wonderful! Lots of wonderful knights on horseback, snorting destriers, ladies in velvets and silks, an absolutely wonderful day! I took quite a few pictures but this knight was soooo handsome, and of course, he was on a black gelding with his silver armor. What more could you ask for.

This piece is for sale, I'm taking it down to be framed shortly.

Karen

Peacock-Selling the Drama

2007-08-18T19:42:00.000-07:00

I did this one at the Farmer's Market today. I then went and matted it. The mat is not crooked, just my photography. Anyway, it's on silver scratchboard. There's a company going out of business (etalcraft.com) that creates metalic paper...wonderful stuff...I'm going to go back and buy more tomorrow. Anyway, I used a bright gold metal paper, and then all the peacock colors I could find...I may add even more gold, this is so pretty!

I've to find a 12 x12 frame now. Not sure if I want something ornate or simple.

Thanks for looking,

Karen

Polar Bears

2007-08-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

An artgroup I'm on has a monthly challenge...this month it was polar bears. Here's my offering.

Karen

Larry Done

2007-08-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

His eyebrows were not on the same line, and the ear phones were so vague that I had to make them up. I'm calling it done.

Karen

Update: Larry finally saw it and it goes up on the web this weekend, he found it...."unique".

lol

Karen

Charlie, ACD

2007-08-03T18:29:00.000-07:00

I was contacted by someone that remembered me. She wanted to know if I could do a portrait for ACD rescue. I said no, and then promptly went out and did one, and it will be in the calendar (I hope). Anyway, he was picked up, found to be full of bbs, and in shot, and is now in his forever home learning to be a therapy dog. I met the other therapy dog these people had and she was wonderful. I would say he has some pretty big paws to fill but, from what I've heard, he's doing it effortlessly and lovingly in spite of a not so good beginning.

The thing I love about this particular breed is that they always look like they got a spare part off of another dog. Derby, another ACD I knew, was a red but had a black and white spotted tail. Charlie is a beautiful spotted silvery color, with what looks like solid black ears (probably borrowed from a German Shepherd, just kidding). I had several shots of him, most of them when he looked very serious, but this one, although I'm not overjoyed with drawing tongues, had the most beautiful expression of happiness and I sincerely hope I captured it. I think I did.

Karen

Springer Puppy

2007-07-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

I met her at the Farmer's Market two weeks ago. She was only 12 weeks at the time. 5x7 Black Claybord Scratchboard, the eyes have been colored with watercolors and the highlights re-scratched.

Yes it is for sale.

Karen

White Flowers

2007-07-27T12:13:00.000-07:00

Done with a simple tool merely called a Plastic Stylus...looks like a big needle in a plastic holder. I then used my Derwent Inktense Colored Pencils...love those cps. Only a 5x7 but this one is a favorite of mine and I cannot quit looking at it.

It is for sale, and I also have prints and cards available.

I have to go work on a framing job. Not even open yet and the jobs are starting to wander in. I'm so excited.

Karen

Kitten Behind Bars

2007-07-26T14:34:00.001-07:00

Kitten Behind Bars
Here's the next in the series. This one is 8x10. This is the actual donation to the Humane Society. I used crosshatching for the bars and then re-painted them so that they're there, but not upstaging the lovely green eyes.Karen

Humane Society Kitty

2007-07-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

This is the first in a series. The second one just needs some finishing work and it will be going to it's new home at the Humane Society. This one is living with me for the time being.

I did two new and different things with this one. First of all, I got the Derwent Inktense pencils. If you know me, you know that colored pencils and I do not get along. So, when I tried to work with these on regular paper, I came up with the usual mess. However, I got them to see if they'd work with my scratchboard because I prefer ink or watercolors if I'm going to color. Well, all I can say is it worked very well. I also ordered this new tool called simply a plastic stylus...well, if that isn't a gem of a tool too.

I'm going to be posting quite a few more pieces in the next few days. I've managed to gather them all in one spot.

I'm opening a matting and framing store. So from now on, all my pieces will be matted and usually framed, and I'll be producing prints. Those too, shall be matted. All pieces from now on will be specified whether they are for sale or not. Please inquire if interested.

He is for sale. Size of original is 5x7 inches. Framed in a black frame with a black suede mat. Total size of frame is 8x10.

Karen

Belly Dancer

2007-07-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

A once in a lifetime photograph. The shutter clicked at just the right moment. There was no photoshopping this one, it just was. It's rather amazing since she was dancing in front of a bunch of musical instruments (drum, cymbals, microphone etc) in a garage. I'm entering it in the local fair on Monday.

Karen

Farmer's Market Kitten

2007-07-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

The local Humane Society set up next to me this weekend. I was very fortunate, I came home with great photos instead of a dozen kittens and two dogs. I thought I'd get him done tonight, but it's not going to happen. It will be colored.

Karen

Zack

2007-07-14T19:53:00.000-07:00

I first met Zack a couple of weeks ago at the local farmer's Market. He's one awesome violinist with a sparkling personality. I'm trying to get this one done for the local fair. Brave me, I've never done teeth, or fingers. Hopefully I can fix these.

The Golden Hind

2007-07-03T20:58:00.000-07:00

Here is another aceo.

Graydon

2007-06-30T19:58:00.000-07:00

This is a piece I actually created for my step-mother and her granddaughter. It's my stepmother's first great grandchild. I'm beginning to like doing people, scary thought.

Karen

Grizzly Bear

2007-06-21T14:10:00.000-07:00

Another I've been working on, I think I need to tweak the color and then I'll call this one done.

Karen