Nakisha is Blue Dog Rose

Nakisha's New Items for Winter, 2011

2011-11-19T12:17:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,
Some new items for the Holiday Season and beyond :)

Although I am still working on a new, much more complicated tarot deck, I did finish another small complete animal tarot deck in the style of the TaRat Rat tarot- The BlueDogRose Tarot. Instead of Swords there are Cats, Cups are Birds, Pentacles are Rodents and Clubs are Dogs. The Major arcana also has goldfish, guinea pigs and rabbits.

This deck and the TaRat and Rabbit Tarot are all available on Etsy here-

http://www.etsy.com/shop/bluedogrose?section_id=6404342

And more information, including the meanings of the cards can be found here on my official website-

http://www.nakisha.com/nakishas_tarots.htm

As I have been doing every year, I have created a 12 month wall calendar of NEW bunny art for 2012. Only a limited number were printed, get yours while you still can!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/bluedogrose?section_id=5099968

Also NEW this year, I now have FREE USA shipping on any of my Fine Art Prints 5" x 7" or larger. I have new paintings available as prints, and some old favorites like this one-

http://www.etsy.com/shop/bluedogrose?section_id=5172608

In my other shop Wire Animals, we are posting new birds and animals as often as possible. You can even get a customized word bird saying what you want, or choose from an assortment of birds and animals who already have so much to say-

http://www.etsy.com/shop/wireanimals?section_id=10336206

Don't forget to sign up for my e-mailing list to be informed of new work, upcoming sales, and special discounts or promotions (sent no more than once a month)-

http://www.nakisha.com/contact_nakisha.html

You can also find me on Facebook -

https://www.facebook.com/bluedogrose

Hope Everyone has a lovely Holiday Season!

All the Best,
Nakisha

Nakisha.com

Past Lives, Graphic Novels and Old Loves

2011-11-05T15:22:00.000-07:00

I graduated from college in 1991, I was 21, broke and unsure of what direction my life would take. In addition to sculpture and painting, when in school I worked with an early form of computer animation. Back then I didn't own a computer, and there was no Internet like we have today. But I have always loved the idea of animation and visually telling a story.

I eventually rented a tiny apartment with my house rabbit in a small town in New York state. My only real furniture in the one room was my drafting table. I began writing and illustrating a series of graphic novels (comix) inspired by my rather cold and drab surroundings (winter in NY state seems to last most of the year).

Tired of the cold and lack of close friends I moved to Seattle in 1993 and continued to write and draw, inspired by my new city. After some long and frustrating attempts to get published, artistically I began to move in other directions. Eventually, I boxed up all the original drawings and pretty much forgot about them. Almost.

Not many people outside of Seattle know who the Bend are, but they are one of my favorite bands. Ever since I was the token roady for the now defunct band Ripley back in the late 1990's I've seen them play live many times and evolve over the years. Recently, something about hearing the song "Superpowers" from their album The Earth The Moon The Stars The Sun The Sky sparked a hint of an idea in my brain. I began digging through all my old graphic works - and quite extensive they are, several books worth at least - and felt like there was potential to make something out of it all. This was one of those projects that came together rather quickly. Once I had the idea in my head, I ran with it. The finished work is the video above.

It's not a narrative of one of the graphic stories, rather an artistic reinterpretation using various parts of different comix. Yes, it is a departure from the work most people are familiar with. No rabbits! And yes, it is a bit dark. But it's still very much my art, and the short video represents literally years of my artistic life.

Will the old graphic novels ever be printed? The answer is a definite maybe. I still have about a hundred pages to digitally scan, process and get print worthy, and not much time to do it with all the other projects I am continually working on (like the newly finished Bluedgorsoe tarot for example). But it just might be time to make it happen.

Mei Mei

2011-07-30T10:21:00.000-07:00

My name is Mei Mei Puffy Ami Yum Yums, though my mom calls me Maisy-boo, mostly. She is too busy to keep up her blog so she asked me to write a bit about myself for it instead.

I'm half Shih Tzu, half American Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Yes, a "bull-shitz" ha ha. Very funny. Like I haven't heard that all my life. I have a short nose and curly tail like my mom but am strong and fast like my dad. I also snort when I am happy or giving kisses or think something is funny.

I was adopted when I was a little peanut my mom says, though she knows I'm not a legume. She has many silly names for me, it's hard to keep track. My daddy calls me "Boo-boo". Mom says he spoils me, and calls me his "white shadow" because I follow him around a lot. See what I mean about all the names? Snort.

I think I have a pretty good life, other than waiting on my people who don't seem to understand that they need to get out more! All this staring at the computers is really lame. I get bored when they do that, so I usually stay in bed until noon. My mom says I'm a slug-a-bed but I need my beauty sleep! I'm special because of all my furry brothers and sisters I get to sleep on the people bed. (sticks tongue out at Laika) I also get hair cuts since I have lots of white fur that grows like crazy. Under my white fur I have spots like a Dalmatian, so I get to be very stylish in summer and show my spots off.

One of my favorite things to do is help in the garden. My mom pulls weeds and it's my job to bite them and make sure they are dead. I am very good at this and can even do a back flip to catch them out of the air. I also help with rat patrol, and make sure none of those nasty squirrels come into the yard. I am very good at protecting the yard. I help Turtle bark at people when they walk by.

Things I don't like are riding in the car, because sometimes that means going to the V-E-T. Yes mom, I can spell, I know what that means! I also know what O-U-T and W-A-L-K mean. The V-E-Ts are not very nice, though my mom says they try to help me. They fixed my leg when it wouldn't work, though I had to wear the cone of shame afterwards. Still, I don't trust those guys, they like to poke me with things.

Everyone says I am the cutest, though I don't like being called a muppet or a mop. I am really a princess with super powers, and will bite any baddie that I meet. My mom says I need to be careful not to bite anybody that they like, so they have to introduce me so I know that they are okay. I also like to bite holes in tennis balls. It's a bit of a hobby of mine, I have quite a collection.

Okay, enough of this boring computer stuff. I'm going back to bed, where I suggest you give me tummy rubs. Being this cute is hard work. Snort.

Artists Help Japan

2011-03-16T21:04:00.000-07:00

Like many people out there I am touched deeply by the horrific images of the tragedy unfolding after the terrible earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Wanting to DO something to help, I created a series of simple rabbit paintings. 100% of the sale price will be donated to the relief efforts in Japan, see my Etsy shop for details or to purchase. These seem to be selling fast, so I will list more as they sell.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/bluedogrose?ref=si_shop

Many vendors on Etsy are donating items and sales to the relief effort, you can see more on the Artits Aid team here:
http://www.etsy.com/teams/8446/artist-aid?ref=pr_teams

My friend Experimetal is making buttons from some of my donated bunny images and other items, more about that on her blog-
http://vtakahashi.blogspot.com/2011/03/please-help-japan.html

*UPDATE 3/18- Almost all of the paintings have sold, thank you for those who have helped me raise money for those who are very much in need.

Interactive Little White Rabbit Stories - coming soon!

2011-02-24T16:28:00.000-08:00

I worked on a project last year for a new company. They make Vivabook, interactive story book apps for the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch that "Challenge your brain, busy your hands, and warm your heart!" :D

These apps are great for getting kids interested in reading, and, I imagine, also a welcome thing to have when you are traveling with little ones, who need something to do besides ask "are we there yet?".

Check out this video-

To download the apps or learn more, visit the Vivabook website-
http://www.vivabook.com/

Or visit them on Facebook

Stories featuring the Little White Rabbit and friends are in the works, so stay tuned!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-26T16:41:00.000-08:00

3 of Foxes from the New Tarot

Well, as some friendly people kindly reminded me, I haven't posted here for awhile. And "Happy New Year" is about a month late, but not for lack of intent.

As often this time of year I try to look ahead, what do I want to accomplish, and ask where do I see myself this time next year? Hopefully not bogged under a bunch of paperwork for my taxes again!

I do want to keep working on the new Tarot, as yet unnamed. It (so far) has foxes, badgers, crows, and rabbits... and evolves the more I work on it. It's a bit more detailed than the Rabbit Tarot and Tarat. That said, I am barely a handful of cards in, there is much work ahead, and not as much time to work on it.

I will try to include posting more to this blog and adding to my ever expanding flickr photo pool as time permits, as well walking the dogs every day. Now there is one New Year's resolution my dogs won't let me forget!

Dancing Bunnies, Free Color in and Cut Out Ornament

2010-12-02T12:05:00.000-08:00

I created this ornament for a contest, but wasn't a winner, so I am offering it free up to anyone who wants a fun project to cut and color and hang on their tree (or anywhere else.)

Click on the image to download off Flickr, or click this link-
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bluedogrose/5226660023/

Have fun and happy decorating!
Nakisha

Bunny Winner!

2010-12-01T11:14:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone who entered the LWR Book giveaway contest!

Based on a number generated by Random.org the winner is........

Amber! (aka pickled pandas)

Congrats on your win, your new bunny items are hopping your way this morning.

White Rabbit Book Giveaway!

2010-11-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

Ok friends! In celebration of finishing my book, I am having a FREE giveaway!

What you can win:
A signed copy of "Little White Rabbit Bakes a Cake", a Bunny Themed Pendant with necklace, and a Collectible Signed Art Card of a white rabbit holding a cake (as shown in the photo).

How to Win:

*Contest is now closed, winner to be announced December 1st. Thank you everyone who entered!*

Contest ends November 30th, 2010 and the winner will be selected by a random number generated by Random.org. I will announce the winner on this blog on December 1st, 2010. Contest is open anywhere where legal. Winner must confirm your win within 30 days or the prize will be forfeit.

To purchase items like these, please visit my Etsy shop
http://www.etsy.com/shop/bluedogrose

The Beagle

2010-09-23T21:25:00.000-07:00

Turtlebean the Beagle

I am not 100% sure why, but Turtlebean the beagle has the most nicknames, including "the beagle". He is THE beagle, the hound and one of the loudest and occasionally most obnoxious, of all the dogs. Yes, I love him, but he's a beagle. He doesn't snuggle, he steals food, he has selective hearing, claws like a wolverine, is especially stubborn, and he's kind funny looking in his old age. He's a character.

You may think that puppies never make it into rescue, but we found him on petfinder.com as a two month old rescue of beaglerescue.org, over 11 years ago. I can't remember why we wanted a beagle, I had one growing up and that didn't seem to sway me, but I will say, beagle puppies are SO darn cute. It's no wonder that they have made it into many a movie, Disney cartoon and shoe commercial. What all that wonderful propaganda doesn't tell you is that these are dyed in the wool hunting dogs. They were bred to follow their nose and to make a lot of noise while doing it, both traits that don't really adapt too well to city life.

When he sees someone walking down the street, he bays. When he is happy to see you, he bays. When he is hungry, he looks at you, then he bays. Don't even get me started about when a fire truck screams by, it's best to cover your ears and wait. Now, for those who have never heard these musical dogs, the hound group is as close as you will get to the Carusos or Pavarottis of the canine world. They were, after all, meant to make a lot of noise chasing game, so hunters could follow them over hill and dale. It surprisingly a lot of depth and volume for a little dog.

Another by product of this selective breeding (and inbreeding) is unfortunately a little less pleasant. He is epileptic, and at one point we had to remove a 1 pound grapefruit sized tumor from his chest. We called it his uni-boob, and so, he also obtained the new nickname of "Tumor".

So, as -Smeagol, Beast, Bee, Boo, Turd, Stinky, Tumor, Boob, Dog, Sneed, Nosy, Butt, Beagle- is sure to attest, this breed is not for everyone, but I wouldn't give him up for anything.

J'Adore Theodore

2010-08-25T10:53:00.000-07:00

My oldest dog, Theo has been with us since he was about 6 weeks old. He'd had a rough start in life. Some evil person dumped him and his litter mates in the woods. Luckily some kids found them and they ended up in the hands of a woman who found them homes. He was a funny little thing, his back legs were swollen from malnourishment, he had demodectic mange which made the hair fall out around his eyes, and was generally so good natured and sensitive. He had a habit of drinking water when he was upset, to the point of throwing up. We called it his "drinking problem" and imagine it was because of his abandonment.

He was also smart and eager to please.

He was our first dog, so of course we made mistakes. He slept on the bed. We didn't know how to address his abandonment issues, so he developed separation anxiety. In his early years he ate through a wall, part of a door and countless homemade dog gates. He also drank from a can of paint, chewed on a nail and various parts of game controllers and cords.

Theo playing sock elephant.

Eventually we got him a dog friend to keep him company and his anxiety calmed down, he outgrew his puppy chewing, and also eventually, his insane Labrador energy mellowed. Now 13, he really is the ipitome of a good dog, even tempered and tolerant, loving and attentive, and goofy and funny. Sometimes we see shadows of the poor puppy he was, he hates being confined (eating the old linoleum when confined to the kitchen recently), and drinking too much water when he is upset. He also is the dog that always knows when I am not felling well, and tries to sit on my lap, even though he weighs 55 pounds. And almost always, that is enough to make me feel better.

I think if there is anything Theo would say to the world is that every dog deserves a chance to be a good dog.
Good boy, Theo.

Upcoming- Rabbit Haven Benefit

2010-08-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

I've donated some fun bunny themed items, including a rabbit tarot deck and bunny jewelry to my local rabbit recue Rabbit Haven, here in Washington state. They have a great meal to go with the silent auction, and everything benefits the homeless bunnies!

Here's the skinny~
September 18, 2010
3:00 - 6:00 pm
at the Rusty Pelican Cafe
$35 per person

From the website-

"This is our major fundraiser for the year, and it's a great time for everyone. Your ticket includes a yummy vegetarian lasagna meal (vegan on request) at our favorite restaurant, the Rusty Pelican Cafe in the Wallingford neighborhood of Seattle, and the opportunity to bid on dozens of super-cool items.
You'll have the opportunity to bid on things like jewelry, custom gift baskets, event and season tickets, amazing cakes baked by Marilyn at the Rusty Pelican, gift certificates, bunny toys and supplies, artwork, and much, much more."

For tickets and more, visit their website-
http://rabbithaven.org/2010-auction/

And if you are in the market for a new bunny friend to add to your family, check out their adoptable bunnies like Tom and Jerry Pictured above!
http://rabbithaven.org/pairs-and-groups/2009/12/20/tom-jerry.html

And the Winner Is...

2010-08-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

Based on a number generated by Random.org, we have now have a winner to the card design contest held last two weeks.

Congratulations to TopHat, who won a free set of Holiday cards (to be printed).

Thank you everyone who commented, by far, the bunny family building a snow bunny was the card design most favorited, but I have decided to print ALL the cards, they should be available to purchase mid September or October. (so everyone wins! :D)

I will also have buttons of the snow bunny family (like the image above) available soon on Etsy!

Holiday Cards- Vote and Enter to Win a free Set of Cards!

2010-07-24T14:41:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year, even though it's 80 degrees out I need to decide what Holiday cards I will put out this year, and I can use your help!

Please have a look at the three card designs I am considering, then, let me know in the comments which one you think should be the 2010 Holiday card available to purchase.

A. Rabbit Family Builds a Snow Bunny

B. Winter Journey to the Party

C. The Tree trimming Party

What's in it for you? Well, if you leave a comment, I will enter you in a random drawing to will a free set of 8 Holiday cards once they are printed. (Contest ends August 6th. Open to any adult where legal to do so, one entry per person.Winner chosen by a random number generator, and announced August 7th, 2010 on this blog)

Please choose one and let me know by leaving a comment on this post.

A. Rabbit Family Builds a Snow Bunny
B. Winter Journey to the Party
C. The Tree trimming Party
D. I want ALL the designs!

Don't forget to leave a way to contact you!

Want to know when the holiday cards will be available? Join my mailing list!
http://www.nakisha.com/contact_nakisha.htm
Or follow me on Twitter
http://twitter.com/bluedogrose

Thank you- This contest has closed! See next post for the winner.

Laika the Rare Mutt

2010-07-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Many people ask me if I have rabbits as pets since I paint so many of them. I don't. I had a house bunny a long time ago, but now I have dogs. I thought it might be fun (for me) to talk about each of them because they really are a lot of inspiration in my work, though maybe not so obvious at first glance.

This is Laika, she's the newest addition to the pack. Although she looks like a German Shepherd, she actually a full grown, 20 pound, six year old mutt. Yes, MUTT. Don't make that face. Mutt dogs are the best in my opinion. What her parentage is is anyone's guess (and many do guess) but my current theory is dachshund, corgi, min pin, squirrel hound, rat terrier... I tell people she is a rare mini German Shepherd.

We weren't gonna get another dog. Our German Shepherd mix Tuco had passed away and it was hard getting used to three dogs. I'd count them coming in from the yard to be sure all the dogs were inside, and I couldn't get my head around three. I kept waiting for the fourth to come through the door.

When I saw the add on Craigslist I told my SO, it's just a leetle dog. One more little dog won't make that much difference! Plus she looks like a German Shepherd. I grew up with German Shepherds and Shepherd mixes, they are sort of imprinted on me.

Me and Wotan, about 1976

Laika was actually named Linka when we got her, we just couldn't get our heads around it, so we altered her name a little. She doesn't mind. Her family gave her up because she didn't get along with their other dog and was too rough with their kid. She doesn't have a shepherd personality, she is pure terrier. Or terror if you are a rodent or squirrel, she is amazingly fast and efficient in taking care of the small animal population. Probably the main reason I don't have rabbits. She is surprisingly gentle with the cats though, although sometimes she will herd them back into my studio.

Like most terriers she is very high energy, more than all the dogs combined. Luckily she likes to fetch so this takes the edge off. Though she likes to sit on your lap, you can't pet her too much, she gets too wound up. She has a thing for things with wheels. Rolling luggage especially makes her excited, and children too, she loves kids. When ready to go for a W-A-L-K she will repeatedly jump straight up in the air 4-5 feet off the ground.

She really is a sweetheart, the perfect number four.

The TaRat

2010-06-14T20:12:00.001-07:00

the Knight of Swords

The TaRat is a 78 card deck is made up of 22 major and 56 minor arcana, each with a different image of white rats. There are Swords, Cups, Pentacles and Clubs in this deck, as well as underlying themes of stars, moons and planets and some birds.

Each original card was created with ink and watercolor on 2.5" x 3.5" sized paper. It was designed to be a mini novelty deck, and not a full sized playing deck.

Right now I have it available as an uncut extra mini deck. Depending on how it sells, I may offer it in a larger, more workable size in the future.

For more-
http://www.theTaRat.com

Q & A with artist Linda Woolford

2010-05-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

One of the wonderful things about Etsy is making connections with people around the world, including talented artists like Linda Woolford. Linda lives on the Isle of Wight, England, and creates beautiful one of a kind animal and fantasy art. I am especially drawn to the sensitive way she depicts her horses. She kindly answered some questions about her art and inspiration.

Please tell us more about yourself.

I've been happily scribbling away since I was very young, I've been trading and selling art pieces since I was about 12 years old. I had to be flexible crafting as a youngster, as we didn't have the finances to buy the products that were basics, so one had to be creative with what was available.I believe this actually helped me to see art and possibilities I wouldn't have explored had I been given a more affluent upbringing.

Pegasus Foal Tiger Lily and Buttons the Robin by Linda Woolford

Do you own any animals?

I own a young black Labrador, 'Prince', who is just over a year old now, and a complete joy. 'Wednesday's Choice', 'Woozle' for short, is my sweet natured 16.2hh bay mare, whom I used to Event, and was retired a good while ago, and who has now reached the great age of 35yrs.

Painted Cherub, Pegasus foal by Linda Woolford

Much of your art is fantasy themed, is their any particular story or book that you are influenced or inspired by?

I cant say I was influenced in fantasy art by any particular genre or book, but I love all fantasy, and Sci-Fi genre, and films and reading has always been a great joy for me.

Wonderful illustrations were a fascination for me as a small child, and visually beautiful films such as Legend, are still breathtaking for me watch.

Welsh Mountain Stallion, Home Pastures by Linda Woolford

Some of us never grow out of our love of painting horses. Do you work from live models, photographs or your imagination? Can you explain your process in how you create a piece start to finish?

Horses have always been a pull for me, since I kept escaping from my home garden as a toddler and following the local beach horses.

I can start an art piece in many ways, sometimes its seeing horses on film, a beautiful real life horse that inspires sketches, more often its lots of photographs, laid down all over the table, pinned onto walls. I like to have some real life references, even with fantasy as it adds a reality to the piece.

When starting a pastel mixed media piece, I will sketch full-size onto scrap paper till I'm happy with the look of it, then rub out any non essential sketch lines so there's a clear outline sketch, then I use this as a reference to sketch directly onto the pastel paper. Then start to fill in with hard pastels, and Derwent soft pencils, then I add small hair and details with watercolours and fine brushes.

I enjoy all types of art, sculpture, and varied subjects, I have a few different styles, not just one, I think that's because its a mood thing, a bit like the way I dress, very different from day to day.

Fox Cub at the Briar Rose Gate by Linda Woolford

If you weren't an artist, what do you think you would like to be?

I'm afraid there would be many other lives I would have liked to explored, Sports, equestrian and athletics, therapy rehabilitation for animals, maybe an author, and although not possible, a time traveler would still be a fun occupation.

Where can we find you online?

Artwolf on Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Artwolf

Pyewacketts on Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Pyewacketts

Online Blogs...................

The Briar Rose Gate

http://artwolfs-briar-rose-gate.blogspot.com/

Pyewacketts

http://pyewacketts.blogspot.com/

Poppy's Its a Dogs Life

http://labrador-poppy-says-itsadogslife.blogspot.com/

New Studio

2010-04-21T09:38:00.000-07:00

I moved my new studio this week to a larger room in the house, so now I can look out the window into the front garden from my desk, and stretch out my arms without touching anything.... a big improvement. Complete in my new studio is this brilliant wall-o-storage. Floor to ceiling packing supplies and art supplies all in easy reach (for the most part). I can finally see my work table clearing to make room for art.

Hi Wire Bird & FAQs

2010-03-25T12:42:00.001-07:00

I have been making these wire birds over ten years now. Recently I started adding words, like "hi".

Here I've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about these birds-

What wire do you use?
I use mostly annealed anchor wire, sometimes called stovepipe wire or fence wire. But I can use any sort of wire and have made them from copper, brass, aluminum, steel and coated electrical wire.

How do you make them?
I start at the beak usually. Each bird is one continuous strand of wire, and the only tools I use is a pair of pliers. I liken it to drawing in three dimensions, I sort of scribble in space the lines of a bird until I have one standing in front of me.

Do they stand on their own?
Yes, they are free standing and 3 dimensional.

Can you teach me/ show me how to make them?
No, but here is a video of me making one.

Some Other Etsy Bunnies

2010-03-10T09:17:00.000-08:00

Etsy has a lot of great bunny items, looking through my favorites, I was surprised how many had sold. Here's a small handful, I will post more as I find them...

I am a sucker for Dutch rabbits, here is a cutie by HazelFisherCreations.etsy.com

I love Amber's paintings, especially the watercolors, but this one is a bit darker and more evocative than some of her other pieces.

Find more of her art at amberalexander.etsy.com

And finally, this little cutie by mudstuff.etsy.com would look great sitting in a flower pot in my garden.

Minor rant:
ETA: This post has been edited to remove an image by another artist who did not want their work on this blog. Although I wholeheartedly respect an artist's right to their work, I also think it's pretty stupid to even want a simple *link* to their shop where you can see and buy it! If you don't want to sell your art, don't post it on the internet! /end rant.

Glass Tile Bunny Pendants

2010-02-27T10:28:00.000-08:00

There are tutorials all over the internet on how to make these simple, yet beautiful glass tile pendants. I had been selling my digital collage sheets of some of my artwork on Etsy for awhile, and I thought it would be fun to give it a try. The supplies were easy to find on Etsy, and I picked some of my favorite bunny images not otherwise available on the digital sheets and gave it a whirl. With a few less than perfect attempts, I finally created a handful of these fun bunny pendants.

In addition to the bunnies, I hope to continue to experiment and make more one of a kind pendants like this one I made from an original a watercolor painting.

Horse Dancer

2010-02-22T12:38:00.001-08:00

New mixed media sculpture.

Dancing on the Valentine

2010-01-28T10:38:00.001-08:00

I have donated this painting to the annual DANCING ON THE VALENTINE benefit for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education, and patient services.

For the 5th anniversary of the benefit, Dancing on the Valentine will include an art show and auction in addition to the musical event. Love and Loss was selected as the theme of the first Dancing on the Valentine in 2004. It was chosen to reflect the universal and timeless experiences of love and loss.

The show will hang during the month of February at the Hazlewood in Ballard. A silent auction will be held through the Facebook page. All proceeds from art sales will be donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Hazelwood
2311 NW Market St
(between N 24th Ave & N Ballard Ave)
Seattle, WA 98107
(206) 783-0478

The Dancing on the Valentine Concert will be held the day before Valentine’s Day, Saturday February 13th, 2010 at The Crocodile in Seattle.

More about Dancing on the Valentine can be found on this website
www.dancingonthevalentine.com

Be sure to check out the Facebook page as well and become a fan
Dancing on the Valentine Facebook Fan Page.

New Painting, and Stuff

2010-01-24T11:38:00.001-08:00

A new painting based on a dream (not unlike "Crossing the Lake"). I seem to have a lot of bunny dreams where things are floating in water. Must be all the rain we have been having in Seattle lately.

I haven't been doing much art, I feel like I should apologize to my faithful viewers. I have taken a few steps back from the drawing board, and am working on a book that has been rattling around in my head for the past ten years or so. And no, it's not about rabbits. But fear not, the little white rabbit and friends will return often, as there is no end to the mischief they get up to. It just might not be as frequent as in previous years.

Custom Bunny

2010-01-13T09:36:00.000-08:00

This is a portrait of Mithril, a lovely lop.

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T18:07:00.001-08:00

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-24T12:46:00.000-08:00

To all my friends, patrons and supporters, I wish you a Happy Holiday season and wonderful and peaceful 2010!

Non Rabbit Art

2009-12-02T12:34:00.001-08:00

I do on occasion...

Paint things that are...

Not rabbits.

Show in Seattle

2009-11-14T10:21:00.000-08:00

Original paintings from the major arcana of the Rabbit Tarot along with Original Quilts based on the Rabbit Tarot by Cindi Glinski of Cottontail Quilts will be on display in November at

City Trees Gallery
4616 14th Ave NW, Seattle, WA (206) 783-1405

Reception for the Artist is November 14th, 6-8 PM

Come say hi, look at art and maybe get your cards read!

New Painting

2009-11-06T12:54:00.001-08:00

I was going to call this one "Releasing the Fireflies" but changed my mind. For now it's just called "Fireflies". I leave it up to the viewer to decide if the bunnies are capturing or releasing them.

Winner!

2009-10-31T08:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone who entered the competition!

The random number has been generated and the winner is....

Mona C. from Georgia!

Congratulations Mona on your win! Enjoy your new Rabbit Tarot!

If time permits I should have one more giveaway before the end of the year. Stay tuned!

Deluxe Tarot Giveaway!

2009-10-22T18:57:00.000-07:00

Ok friends! I had so much fun with the last giveaway I am having another!

All of this is in preparation for my gallery show of the original art for the Rabbit Tarot, which opens November 14th in Seattle at City Trees Gallery in Ballard (more details soon, please visit my website nakisha.com). Cindi of Cottontail Quilts will also be showing some of her fabulous tarot pouches and quilts. We have joined together to celebrate with this new giveaway! Anyone anywhere can enter, unless you are family, or have already won something from me in the last year.

What you can win:
The Deluxe Tarot set shown in the image above. This includes a deck of the Rabbit Tarot, a beautifully sewn Rabbit Tarot Pouch from Cottontail Quilts, a bunny pin back button and three Rabbit Tarot postcards. A $48. value!

How to Win:

******* Thank you but the giveaway is now closed, the winner will be announced on Saturday the 31st! *******

Bonus Entries:
Do any of the following; each * will count as one additional entry:

*Follow this blog (or mention you already follow it in the comments).
*Follow Cottontail Quilts blog (or mention you already follow in the comments).cottontailquilts.blogspot.com
*Follow us on twitter bluedogrose AND cottontailquilt AND Tweet (once) this phrase-

RT Win a FREE Rabbit Tarot Deck and Deluxe Tarot Pouch from @bluedogrose @cottontailquilt http://bluedogrose.blogspot.com/

Contest ends October 30th, and the winner will be selected by a random number generated by Random.org, and I will announce the winner on this blog on October 31st, 2009.

If you can't wait to get your hands on your own Tarot pouches visit Cottontail Quilts shop on Etsy here cottontailquilts.etsy.com

To be up to date on my shows, giveaways and new work, you can add yourself to my mailing list at this link nakisha.com/contact_nakisha.htm

October Rain

2009-10-18T11:48:00.001-07:00

It has been a beautiful October here in the Pacific Northwest. I couldn't have asked for a better time to turn 40. It's the first birthday here in Seattle that I can remember it not being overcast and raining.

But, my birthday has come and gone, and so apparently has the sunny weather.

I started this painting then went out to play with the dogs in the rain, and to make sure our newly cleaned gutters were doing their job. Well, a gust of wind took out my already collapsing umbrella, and I finally had to admit it was done for. I have had this umbrella a long time, it's not that special, I don't think I paid more than $8 bucks for it new, but you know how you get attached to things you've had awhile.

So back inside, drying off, I started once again to work on the painting. Originally I envisioned the umbrella as a bright red one, but painting in the first layers of shadows it naturally took on the black and white stripes like the umbrella I just reluctantly threw away.

So there you have it, my little tribute to the loss of an umbrella and loss of the sunny weather. Sometimes it just happens that way.

Rabbit Tarot Bags and Pouches

2009-10-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have a confession. I cannot sew. Oh I can do a few whip stitches and throw a patch over the hole in my jeans, but straight lines with a sewing machine I never had the patients for. That's why I am thrilled with the talent Etsians who have created carrying bags that would be perfect for the Rabbit Tarot.

The first you may already recognize for her fabulous quilts of the Little White Rabbit. Cindi has made these darling rabbit pouches, and promises more to come.

Her shop is cottontailquilts.etsy.com

The next is a seller I met through a Tarot Forum. She has found the perfect fabric for the Rabbit Tarot.

Her shop is karenmiles.etsy.com

The next is a bag I stumbled upon browsing Etsy that would also be perfect for the Rabbit Tarot.

It and many other bags can be found at this shop rainfeather13.etsy.com

Winner!

2009-10-02T08:07:00.001-07:00

Thank you everyone who entered my contest, I wish I could give a prize to each and every one of you! Unfortunately, as they say on Highlander, there can be only one.

Thanks to a number generated by random.org the winner is *drumroll*

Leslie!

Congrats Leslie! I hope you enjoy your art and tarot cards!

I had so much fun with this giveaway I will be having another REAL soon. It will be announced through my email newsletter, so be sure to sign up if you haven't already.

The Rabbit Tarot- Giveaway

2009-09-19T11:43:00.000-07:00

*Contest has ended, winner to be announced Saturday the 3rd.*

In celebration of the Rabbit Tarot being finished I am having a special blog giveaway!

You can win this original painting (not a print!) of an image from the Rabbit Tarot deck- the Seven of Carrots (5" x 7" watercolor on paper.) AND your very own Rabbit Tarot Card Deck. ($70. Value!)

Here's how to enter to win:

Just leave a comment on this blog post (required), make sure I have some way to contact you either through your blog ID or a web address. (only one comment will be counted if you leave multiple comments).

For additional BONUS entries you may do any or all of the following:

*Follow this Blog.

*Visit my website and add yourself to my mailing list. (if you are already on my list, just pop in and say hi using the form and I will count you).

*If you are on Twitter Retweet this message below for a bonus entry into the contest (only one tweet by you will be counted, please don't spam).

RT @bluedogrose win a Rabbit Tarot Card Deck and original painting! http://bluedogrose.blogspot.com/2009/09/rabbit-tarot-giveaway.html

The winner will be chosen by a random number generator, contest ends October 2nd, 2009. The winner will be announced in this blog October 3rd. Good Luck Everyone!

Please visit my Etsy shop if you can't wait and want to purchase my new Rabbit Tarot Decks. I will also be listing original art from the decks for sale soon!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=92869

Rabbit Haven

2009-09-11T08:51:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite local rabbit rescue organizations is having a benefit vegetarian dinner and silent auction (including some bunny items from me!).

The 2009 Dinner & Silent Auction is being held on September 19th, 3:00pm at the Rusty Pelican in Seattle.

Check out the website for more information.

www.rabbithaven.org

Custom Animal Portraits

2009-09-07T10:37:00.000-07:00

I am always flattered when people want me to do portraits of their pets. Sometimes it's an emotional request, since their beloved animal is no longer with them. I am a bit on the fence about it, since I know there are a great many talented artists out there who do wonderful and realistic animal portraits, which is not really my forte. Luckily many people understand that, and apparently that's not why they pick me to paint or sculpt their pets.

This portrait of Noisette and Océanne, two lovely bunny sisters I got to know on the flickr BLU group (bunny lovers unite). Their bunny mum had a wonderful idea about Noisette tucking in Océanne, and this is the result.

Here are a couple pendants I made of Shelby the rat, who is no longer with us. The customer wanted one for her and one for her daughter, something they could carry with them to remember her by.

Like any custom work, I rely on a lot of intuitive feel for what the customer wants. Sometimes I get it wrong, or there is miss-communication with the customer about what they see in their head and what I end up creating. I don't see this as a bad thing, because like any art, it's often about the process and not the finished piece. I really enjoy the challenge of custom work, and getting to know my clients better in the process.

Etsy Video Contest Update

2009-09-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

My video "Handmade Animals" is a semi finalist in the Etsy Video Contest.

Out of the 177 videos submitted this one is one of the 25 finalists. On September 14th Etsy will announce the finalists, and voting for the winner will begin. I am surprised and happy that my humble little video made it this far, considering how many unique and well made entries there are.

Thanks everyone for your support!

Bunnies On the Way

2009-08-15T14:33:00.001-07:00

The Rabbit Tarot is done!

Almost a year long project, the Rabbit Tarot has 78 images, now being made into decks (fingers crossed for the card printers). I have other plans in the works for the release of the Rabbit Tarot, including using the images for a 2010 calendar, limited edition prints of the major arcana, and a show of some of the original artwork in November.

I will also be having a giveaway!

In other news I am listing the original paintings from my "Little White Rabbit A-Z" for sale on Etsy. This book will be available in September as well.

"O is for Orange Octopus" watercolor on paper.

For more information, please contact me. You can also sign up to be on my emailing list for special deals, upcoming events and news about my art projects.
http://www.nakisha.com/contact_nakisha.htm

Lulu Contest!

2009-08-02T20:25:00.001-07:00

I had a great surprise this weekend when I found out my mini book created on Lulu.com called "101 Rabbits" was one chosen for the final 10 books for their mini book contest out of hundreds of entries.

Thank you everyone who voted! (I came in third!)
http://www.lulu.com/contest/mini_photography_contest/

In honor of the contest, my friend at Mostly Mod Blog will be giving away a FREE signed copy of "101 Rabbits" on her blog! Simply leave a comment or follow her blog to enter. (UPDATE: a winner has been chosen, thank you all! please visit her wonderful blog )
http://mostlymod.blogspot.com/

Thanks so much!

Colorful Collaboration

2009-07-15T08:06:00.001-07:00

"Space Walk" Quilt by Cottontail Quilts.

Cindi at Cottontail Quilts first contacted me for a commission idea she had about making a rabbit painting to use for her cards and tags for her shop. Cindi has a great shop on Etsy where she makes custom quilts, children's apparel and crib sets. She also has and adorable house bunny named Harriet who inspired her shop name.

Through our collaboration I also ended up making a banner and avatar for her etsy shop, in turn Cindi surprised me with a beautiful quilt based on one of my rabbit paintings.

She did such beautiful work I decided to see if she was interested in further collaboration. Though we have never met in person, we emailed back and forth and agreed easily on how this would work.

Cindi continues to surprise and delight me with her interpretations of my paintings as quilts. Take a look at her shop for more:

Cottontailquilts.etsy.com

101 Rabbit Paintings

2009-07-03T12:37:00.000-07:00

Here is a new video I put together of some of the bunny ACEO's I've done over the last couple of years. ACEO stands for Art Card Editions and Originals. They are pieces of artwork measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches (6.4 cm x 8.9 cm), the same as a standard playing card.

I actually seem to have a lot more than 101 paintings of rabbits...but you know what they say about bunnies. You start with a couple and soon you have hundreds.

More to Color

2009-06-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

I am a featured guest artist on the wonderful website Coloring Pages For All.

What does that mean for you? Well, there are four brand new coloring book pages there for FREE download and coloring fun, all with rabbits, of course. Little white rabbits? Little pink rabbits? Little blue rabbits? You decide!

Click this link for more
http://www.coloring-pages-for-all-ages.com/guest-artist-nakisha.html

Sir Isumbras as a Rabbit

2009-06-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

My new painting "The Ride Home".

I was doodling in my sketchbook the other night and there was a tv program about medieval weapons on and I starting thinking about knights and paintings. Specifically Sir Isumbras at the Ford by Sir John Everett Millais.

My original sketch showed Three bunnies on the back of a spotted pony, but I liked the idea of a bunch of bunnies ridding another animal so much I grabbed my last piece or Arches watercolor paper and "The Ride Home" is what I came up with.

It's not a rabbit version of "Sir Isumbras" per se, but it does throw a definite nod to the PRB and to Millais as well.

Handmade Elephant

2009-06-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

A Handmade Elephant

Posted to Etsy Handmade Moment by bluedogrose on June 08, 2009

Click to Play | View Details

Here is one of three videos I have entered into the Etsy contest "A Handmade Moment". I hope to have a lot of views!

You can check out the other videos here:
http://www.etsy.tv/playlist/Handmade-Moments

I had so much fun with these I am attempting a much longer and more complex video using Flash animation. There is a bit of a learning curve, but I am enjoying the process.

Blinky the Bunny

2009-06-07T15:26:00.000-07:00

New video, with several more in the works... The music is my old band Vertebrae, and yes, at the very end you can hear my voice. It's actually a song I made up the guitar and spoken word piece for ages ago.

I am feeling a bit blinky myself after 14-15 hour days working on these videos. More soon.

Little White (or any color you want) Rabbit Coloring Book

2009-05-14T17:15:00.000-07:00

It's been a rainy week here in Seattle. What better time to cozy up with a hot cup of tea and make a coloring book? Which is exactly what I did, made a 13 page book full of rabbity fun just waiting for some color.

In honor of the digital release, I made an extra coloring book page that I'm GIVING AWAY. That's right, download it, print it and color your hearts out! Just don't sell it to anyone, because it's FREE.

The above image takes you to the flickr page, click on the "all sizes" link above the image, and then click "download the original size" which should print nicely on 8.5" x 11" standard printing paper.

Have fun! And if you feel like it, show me how you colored it in, because I'd love to see it!

If you want more, you can check out the DIY section of my etsy shop, I am selling the download for the whole book at a very reasonable fee.

New Video-Baby Dutch

2009-05-03T13:47:00.000-07:00

I put this video together from 20 watercolor and ink illustrations I painted. I also tried a version of this video with the music by Sun Kil Moon, and strangely enough, it works with that as well, but this version seemed happier (go figure).

Best viewed in high quality (click the red HQ button).

The paintings from this video will be available soon, contact me if interested.

Art Inspiration- Victoria Usova

2009-04-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

I know girls and animals with big eyes are all the rage in art and illustration at the moment. Not really my thing, but the art of Victoria Usova's charming images have me leaning more towards an appreciation of the large eyed world. Probably because they are just so friendly and beautifully drawn and painted.

As you know, I have fairly recently come back to watercolor as one of my favorite mediums. Victoria's watercolors really epitomize the wonderful fluid and playful nature of the medium. Colors blend and shift from soft pastels to bright deep tones.

I am also very much a fan of fairy tales, and Victoria's world is full of both exotic and familiar ones.

You can read more about her on her blog
http://vusova.blogspot.com/

And buy her art on Etsy while you still can afford it!
http://vusova.etsy.com

Wild thing, you make my heart sing...

2009-04-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

This is probably the only movie I want to see this year. Big furry creatures of live action awesomeness!

New Animation

2009-04-06T15:59:00.000-07:00

Not feeling well lately, I lay in bed with no energy to make "real" art. I played around with my paper and pens and decided to make a little flip book. You know the ones, where you draw something slightly different on each page, then when you flip the pages the images becomes animated. It's a crude but fun way to pass the time.

Once I finished my little flipbook, what to do with it? I didn't really want to sell my little book, but then hit on the idea of scanning the images into the computer. Sometime later, as the segue goes, I ended up with a down loadable do-it-yourself flipbook, and sometime after that, a new animation.

You can watch the animation below, and if you want to try your hand at your own rabbit flipbook, please see my etsy shop, I'm offering the flipbook download for a reasonable fee.

Damn sink is clogged with hare again

2009-04-04T09:52:00.001-07:00

Damn sink is clogged with hare again
Originally uploaded by Bunny Spice

It's been one of those days.

Make Me Chocolate!

2009-03-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard of the "Make Mine Chocolate™" campaign, it is a movement started by the Columbus House Rabbit Society, a non-profit rabbit rescue in Ohio. The goal is to help educate the public that rabbits make terrible Easter gifts.

Sadly, rabbits are the third animal, behind cats and dogs, that are surrendered to animal shelters. Many are also "set free" after the Holiday, where they face death and injury from starvation, predation and roads. Rabbits can live ten years or more, and require as much work as a cat or dog. They should be spayed or neutered for the best health, need room to run around every day and must have a quality diet to thrive.

This Easter, I encourage everyone to think before you buy. If you still want a rabbit and are ready for the commitment, consider adopting one from your local animal shelter or rescue organization.

For more information on caring for rabbits, visit
The House Rabbit Society

A WA state rabbit rescue
Rabbit Haven

More on the campaign
Make Mine Chocolate
and the UK version
Make Mine Chocolate UK

The Humane Society of the US

I donate the sale of artwork to various animal rescue organizations in my Etsy shop- including the painting above- just click the "For the Animals" Section.

Oni, Moonlit

2009-03-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

A little video of my sculpture coming to life.

A break for Sculpture

2009-03-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

...Or as Monty Python says, and now for something completely different.

Sometimes when I get really involved in a project, it's good to step back and do something completely different. This is especially the case with the Rabbit Tarot, which seems to grow exponentially the more I work on it. I am really enjoying coming up with a new design for each of the 78 cards, but that's a lot of bunnies to paint and I don't want to burn out.

Hence the break to make the above sculpture, the Rabbit Demon. I purposefully made the eyes of this odd bunny like the demons (Oni) you can see in Japanese woodblock prints- each pupil is a bit wide so that they don't seem quite focused on one spot. I made use of a lot of recycled materials on this piece, old fabric, a paintbrush chewed by my dog Meimei, and string and ribbon I am constantly saving. The head moves from side to side and up and down on this hanging sculpture, but this is a protective bunny- he keeps an eye on the evil spirits and hopefully scares them away.

There was a lot of work on this one with some setbacks. The polyclay almost burned because I can't read the temperature gauge on my ancient stove, the rabbit's skin had to be hand sewn on him, and the balance of the neck took forever to get just right. But I am pretty happy with the final result.

Rabbit Tarot- In the works!

2009-02-13T08:45:00.000-08:00

I am pretty excited about my new project, the Rabbit Tarot, based on the little white rabbits and friends. I now have about half the deck painted, and am researching printing possibilities. I want the finished tarot deck to be functional and well made, so finding the right printing company (and funding for the project) is a top priority. I have had the same tarot deck for over 18 years, and have read for myself and friends, so it's nice to reinterpret each card to the little white rabbit world.

Stay tuned for more updates, or visit my flickr page for more images.

Art Inspiration- Sarah Ogren

2009-02-02T09:11:00.000-08:00

"Flying Companions" by Sarah Ogren

I am generally a fan of collage and mixed media, the art form that combines recycling and re-imagining existing images and ideas into new things. Last year I treated myself to an new piece I found through Etsy created by an artist I have admired for some time- Sarah Ogren. I love how Sarah combines the old illustration images with hand painting and whimsical touches. Her subject matter is also often close to my heart- rabbits, birds, woodland creatures and trees- often dressed in Victorian or vintage attire.

This piece "flying Companions" came displayed in a hand altered and textured frame that compliments the subject beautifully. A bunny woman rests elegantly on the back of a sparrow, which combines anthropomorphism, fantasy and vintage elements. It makes me smile whenever I see it, prominently displayed on my bookshelf.

You can read more about Sarah on her blog:
http://www.sarahogren.blogspot.com/

And be sure to visit her Etsy shop to purchase her fun and thoughtful creations:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=86028

Poor Theo- Step by step

2009-01-15T17:07:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the real life Theo, I made a mini "Poor Theo" Sculpture. I thought it would be fun to share the step by step of how to make this type of sculpture.

I started with a basic wire armature or skeleton.

Then added a layer of masking tape over the wire.

I kept adding masking tape, 3-5 layers of it for strength and to cover the whole armature.

Once satisfied with the taping, I added a coat of gesso and let it dry.

I added 3-4 layers of gesso, letting it dry between each coat.

The final finish was achieved with a layer of acrylic paint, painted on then wiped off. The Elizabethan collar was made from heavy plastic, sewn on by hand.

Bunny Mobile!

2009-01-14T17:21:00.001-08:00

I love mobiles. I love making art that moves. I have dreams of making huge kinetic pieces of life sized horses moving in the breeze. Maybe someday.

For now I am thrilled with my latest brainstorm- Do it Yourself Bunny Mobiles. I spent weeks tweaking this idea, using some of may favorite bunny paintings, I created a card that could be cut up, glued and assembled into a mobile. Then I spent another week creating a booklet, including illustrations on how to assemble it. I just got the cards from the printer this morning and was thrilled with the result. I felt like a kid making my own mobile, even though I had already made four prototypes getting the design just right.

I should point out that it's not my idea entirely, it came out of a short IM with my friend experimental. She said "I will give you one idea- bunny mobile made out of card stock". That was enough to send the ball rolling.

In any case the Bunny Mobile Kits are hopefully just enough inspiration to people, there are endless combinations and variations that can be made up out of it and I hope my customers have as much fun with them as I did making them up.

If interested in trying your hand at one of these mobiles, please visit my etsy shop.

No Copy Right

2009-01-09T21:23:00.001-08:00

There is a website out there that started with an idea- let kids make pictures by collaging fashion items they found on the web into their own designs.

Unfortunately, it's an idea poorly imagined, managed and executed, since many members of this site take copyrighted images from artists and photographers, cut them up, then add and remove elements and use them to make their own pictures. This has many of my friends and artists I admire up in arms and understandably upset. Their work is not to be hacked up and displayed without permission, even if there is a link back to them.

The site owner, unfortunately, is documented as not having any control over the actions of it's members, which is like saying 'hey it's just my website, I can't do anything about that'.

The owner of the site knows their members can easily violate copyright laws, but choose to turn a blind eye and let the artists and their friends constantly police the site for stolen images, send cease and desist notices as well as upsetting the members of the site- many of them children and teenagers who don't know any better. It's time for the creator of this site to stop acting helpless and make their site so it doesn't encourage unlawful behavior by others.

If you want to read more here are some links:

Etsy forum discussion:

www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5982886&page=1

The blog of someone sorely wronged by this site.

artandghosts.typepad.com/

Petition to shut down

www.gopetition.com/online/24378.html

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T11:54:00.000-08:00

marriedtothesea.com

I wish I had a rabbit that would clean my house.

True Love-Etsy style

2008-12-20T17:28:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago the husband of a friend purchased a rabbit print from my etsy shop. He knew this particular print called "Poppy" was one that his wife had wanted for a long time, and he wanted to surprise her for Christmas. I was happy to oblige and promptly sent it off to his relatives to hold until the Holidays.

Poppy is a print I created by scanning in a drawing of mine into the computer then digitally painting it. It depicts a somewhat romantic white rabbit leaping for joy in a field of orange poppy flowers.

A few days ago, this same friend decided to treat herself and purchase the Poppy print she had been wanting for so long. Without knowing it, she had just purchased the exact present for herself that her husband wanted to surprise her with!

That put me in a bit of a quandary. Do I tell her? Do I just send the items and play dumb? I sent a frantic email to the husband asking what he wanted to do. A little while later I got an email back from him saying that just as he was reading my email, his wife mentions that she just bought Poppy for herself! He couldn't keep a strait face. The cat, or rather, the rabbit was out of the bag.

All's well that ends well. My friend will not only have a Poppy print to call her own, but a sweet story of true love to go along with it.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Can't Hurry the Bunny

2008-12-05T19:42:00.000-08:00

I paint bunnies; brown and black, spotted and lop eared, running, jumping, sleeping, playing... but mostly I paint a character I call the little white rabbit or "LWR" for short. The number one thing people ask me after seeing my art (well, they *tell* me) is that I should write a children's book. Well, I have written one, I just haven't heard back from the publisher yet. Yes, it's about the little white rabbit.

The thing about getting a book properly published is that it takes time. Publishers want exclusive access to the manuscript, meaning you can't send it to every publisher you can think of in hope one will want it. And most publishers also get tens of thousands of submissions every year, so you can imagine how long it takes them to say "no thanks". It takes even longer for one to say "yes".

I am sure the stories of the little white rabbit will be published someday, I believe that. But in the meantime, he's got things to do, places to go, games to play. Some of those escapades I will share with the world right now, and some will go into the next book or seven after that.

Inspiration- Good Day L.A.

2008-11-20T18:52:00.000-08:00

I make no secrets about artists I like, I practically drag a soap box around with me to shout at people about it, at least in my head. In this blog I plan to periodically drag out and show art I have collected and treasure, and I hope you enjoy the ride.

One of my first major acquisitions on Etsy was from a then relatively unknown creator called the Mincing Mockingbird- the brilliant brainchild of California artist Matt Adrian. Now he much admired for his caustic, sarcastic, and at times very poignant bird paintings, but I feel myself to be very lucky to be the proud owner of an original disaster painting called "Good Day L.A./Apocolypse Begins Near The 405".

I have no idea why I love this painting so much. The subect itself is pretty horrible in fact, but the painting only hints at it. The brilliant blue sky, the linear geometry and the unexplained collumn of white and gray smoke. Only after the initial view do you realize there is a car in the air to the very left of the canvas. THERE IS A CAR IN THE AIR.

I think part of the appeal is the honestly of it, to me, that's how disaster really hits you, in the absurd details that don't make sense right away. Stuff off to the side your eyes see but your brain doesn't believe. Fire and smoke we understand, projectile autos, not so much.

In any case, this painting has hung in my studio a couple years now. I see it every day, and once in awhile I find myself staring off into space and look at it and think THERE IS A CAR IN THE AIR. I love to have art that constantly says something to me, and I am thrilled that the artist has had such great success with his work.

Please do check out his shop (mincingmockingbird.etsy.com ) and buy his original work while you can still afford it.

A strange lack of rabbits

2008-11-14T16:12:00.000-08:00

I had a customer who bought my art comment once that I must have lots of white rabbits and spend all day watching them to be able to paint them with so much life and character.

Well, in truth, I don't have any rabbits. I did have one a long time ago, and he wasn't even white, he was brown. Don't get me wrong, I would love a yard full of them, but unfortunately, so would my dogs and cats, and not in the way that would be nice for the rabbits.

Two of my crazy dogs.

A lot of my inspiration is other people's rabbits, but as I paint all out of my head even I am never sure where these bunnies come from. Or why they are hugging birds, stealing horse carts, flying to the moon or hanging out with the odd android or Grizzly bear.

It may sounds cliche but I *do* sometimes wake up first thing in the morning and go- "Oh! A little white rabbit eating supper with a mouse and drinking carrot wine!"- then go paint it. The stories behind the painting comes during the painting process or after the painting is finished. Of course the mouse and the rabbit are old friends, and they have dinner together all the time because they are lonely and don't get along with other mice and rabbits. It makes perfect sense.

City Trees and Bunnies Holding Birds

2008-11-10T19:48:00.000-08:00

SO, had a fabulous time at the opening of City Trees Furniture and Gallery (4616 14th Ave NW, Seattle, WA), thank you everyone who made it out! I have a whole room of paintings and sculptures for those who missed it, the gallery is open Thursday through Saturday 10 am-6 pm and Sundays noon to 6 pm.

Although everyone complimented me on the paintings and sculpture, it seemed that I got even more attention for the new pendant I was wearing. This piece is an extension of my latest obsession for rabbits holding things (birds, mice, other rabbits...) translated into a fun silhouette pendant. The bird in this case is completely cut out, making use of negative space.

Not sure where the bunny and bird thing is going, but it's fun to see the relationship develop between the two. Here is the painting I finished today, which also incorporates my *other* new obsession, fog and trees. I guess all my art is a little obsessive come to think about it, it's always a journey of some sort, I am never sure where I am going to end up.

A bit about bits of landscapes

2008-10-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

ACEO stands for Art Card Editions and Originals. They are cards of artwork measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches (6.4 cm x 8.9 cm), the same as a standard playing card. These small original works of art are great for collecting or displaying in small groupings.

About three years ago I started making small ACEO landscapes. It started, in a way, as a relearning process; I remembered things while making them I hadn't though of in years, because I hadn't really painted much with water colors since high school in the 1980's. My small studio and increasing sensitivity to oil paint fumes has since steered me away from the paints I loved into new ground. Or new old ground.

Yes, the titles of my recent landscape paintings are all songs from the eighties. During the 1980's I lived on a farm in a very rural area of New York State. There wasn't much to do for fun, except ride my horse over all the farms and woods, or on the endless dirt roads. Many of the landscapes and skies I saw back then were the inspiration behind these paintings- and like most of my work; they are painted from memory, not from life or photographs.

As this series continues I am beginning to run out of song titles. I may have to go into the 1990's, or better yet, go back to a simpler time 1970's? 1940's? I don't think there is a such a thing as a simpler time. Time is never simple, and neither are memories that resurface as vague watercolors.

Animation, again.

2008-10-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

I have always been fascinated by animation, every since my sister showed me how to make a simple moving animation by drawing on the corners of the pages of a notebook. I played around with computer animation in college, back before there WAS computer animation programs like Maya and Studio Max or even Flash... it was an Amiga system, for you geeks out there.

Well, fast forward to this week, when I woke up holding on to half a dream I had of a bunny and blue bird comic. As I lay there waking up I began to think about where that idea could go and hit on the inspiration to making a series of my bunny paintings, then scan them into the computer and edit them with my basic movie making software. The result of that little experiment is here.
Inspired by my first success, I made another one today.

They aren't animation in the true sense, since there are not enough frames to make them actually "move" (if I recall right, film is 24 frames per second). But the mind tends to fill in the gaps, like seeing something with a strobe light on. The fact that these are composed of only a handful of actual paintings (14 for Blue Bird and Little White Rabbit and 16 for Bunnies Go Boum) is somehow very satisfying. There was very little computer manipulation, other than flipping some of the images and editing them together. A bit old old school animation, a bit of the new technology.

Now what to do with all the paintings I made for these almost animations...