ChaoticBlackSheep's Rants & Raves

New Website

2012-01-27T12:12:00.001-06:00

Chuck and I totally revamped my website; there are all kinds of hidden fun things to interact with and a lot more projects have been posted, including some that are still in progress. Please feel free to check out the changes here.
http://jenniferweigelart.com/

And don't forget about the trunk show at Framations and the 10-year anniversary January eBay auctions tomorrow.

Valentine Trunk Show
Framations
218 North Main St.
St. Charles, MO
Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, 10 - 3

Jennifer Weigel's eBay store

This Week

2012-01-26T21:30:00.002-06:00

This week, I will be at Framations for the Valentine Trunk Show this Saturday, Jan. 28 from 10 - 3 during the Fete de Glace ice carving competition! A great opportunity to splurge on something special for your cherished loved one (or yourself), just in time for Valentine's Day!

Valentine Trunk Show
Framations
218 North Main St.
St. Charles, MO
Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, 10 - 3

Please check out my 10-year anniversary blog for an exclusive coupon redeemable at the event.

EBay Auctions

2012-01-23T18:35:00.002-06:00

Here's a 10-year anniversary update: I have listed my first set of eBay auctions. I posted some highlights to the blog, or you can check them out at my eBay store. Just follow the links below.

10-year anniversary blog

eBay store

This Week

2012-01-17T12:40:00.003-06:00

My Manhood piece, which was included in the Women's Caucus for Art Reversing the Gaze, Man As Object show at SOMArts in San Francisco late last year, will be featured in the upcoming February show at Shameless Grounds. I've even reworked it for Mardi Gras, so it's a new experience. Please stop by and check it out, just in time for the popular & provocative Koken Art Factory Naughti Gras show!

February Show
Shameless Grounds
2650 Sidney St.
St. Louis, MO
Feb. 2012
Reception: Saturday, Jan. 21, 7 - 9 PM

Weighing In on the "Pay to Play" Game

2012-01-16T11:51:00.009-06:00

This is a continuation of my last blog post, a rant about rising fees which can be found here.

With rising costs and commitments, a lot of artists have had to cut back on the number of things that they can be involved with. It is imperative when determining what to support and what to cut to weigh the pros and cons of involvement, whether that be a gallery, exhibition, membership, organization... So here are some considerations and questions to ask yourself when thinking about the benefits. Feel free to respond with your own thoughts and other considerations that I may have overlooked.

Some Considerations & Questions for Artists

- Artwork Sales
Does art sell? In what volume?
What sort of commission is taken?
How are sales handled? Are artists responsible for their own sales?

- Attendance
Are their shows, events and other happenings well-attended?
Who attends? Those involved? The public at large? What is the demographic?

- Community
What community do they serve?
Do you feel included as part of it? Do you feel you belong and/or fit in?
Can they extend your influence outside of your status quo?
For the social advocates:
Do they work with otherwise underserved communities?
What sort of community social advocacy programs do they offer?

- Exposure: exhibitions, interviews, member databases, web presence...
How much exposure do they generate?
What sort of press and publicity do they garner?
How well do they promote members? Exhibitions? Events?...

- Monetary Commitments: dues, fees, other expenses...
What costs are involved?
How does the fee schedule work? Are membership fees due at a certain time or on a revolving basis?
Are show fees for jurying, acceptance or both? Do you have to pay even if your artwork isn't accepted?
Are there any hidden or additional fees? Handling artworks for show? Rent?...

- Opportunities to Show Art
What sort of opportunities are there to show art?
Juried, non-juried or both?
Solo, group or both? How large of a region are group shows curated from?
Member-only sales opportunities, like sales galleries and boutiques?
Off-site venues?
Other show opportunities?
How long do show rotations last?
How many people are represented? At what stages of their careers?

- Social Connections & Networking
Do you feel you are an important part of a larger group?
What sorts of people are involved? Who do you meet?
How can you promote yourself and connect with others within the group?
Is there a psychological connection? Do you feel a sense of personal emotional, mental, physical and/or spiritual benefits?

- Time & Volunteer Commitments
Are you expected to volunteer?
What sort of volunteer opportunities are available?
Is your time valued? How do they track volunteer commitments?

- Travel Distance
Can you physically get there? If not, how can you be involved?
How long does it take to get there?
How much wear and tear on your personal transportation is required for involvement?
Is the distance potentially problematic? Does it make active involvement difficult?

- Workshops, Classes and Learning / Teaching Opportunities
What opportunities are offered for learning and honing skills?
How are those opportunities handled? Demo? Lecture? Hands-on?
What kinds of sessions are there? Ongoing classes? Day- or weekend-long conferences? Shorter meetings?
If opportunities are offered, what topics are touched upon?
Technique? What media and methods are explored?
Promoting yourself? What means of promotion are discussed? Press? Media? Online presence?
Career advancement? What directions of career advancement are considered? How is advancement determined? What about different stages of careers? Is there one-on-one assessment?
Managing yourself (legal, bookkeeping, shooting images of artworks, applying for shows...)?
What is the process by which artists are considered to teach or lead?

Other Considerations and Questions for Institutions:

Are your fees comparable to similar institutions? Consider the demographics of those you serve and your size.

Do you have anything in place for those who cannot otherwise afford to be involved?
For those who can't afford the time commitment, are there volunteer buy-out options so they can donate money in lieu of time?
Are there student / hardship memberships or rates available for those who don't have the money? What else do those rates entail? More volunteer hours? Other commitments?

Do you have different levels of membership and are the benefits of each clearly defined?
What is your highest level? Lowest?
Do you offer a general Patron / Sponsor level above Professional / Practicing Artist to help fund scholarships for Hardship / Student memberships?

Does your fee schedule conflict with the community you serve?
Can those you want to work with afford to be involved?

On the "Pay to Play" Game

2012-01-16T11:36:00.002-06:00

With finances still being tight and a lot of funding cut, a lot of art organizations have been forced to rely financially more and more heavily on the artists and art community to keep their doors open. Entry fees, member dues and other expenses are on the rise everywhere, with many organizations charging more for Professional Artist level memberships than ever before.

The whole situation unfortunately reverberates with a "pay-to-play" mentality where those who can afford to be involved are while those who can't are bystanders that aren't always included, which is really quite saddening. It can all be rather dissuading and depressing, since many artists don't have a lot of funds and are trying to make ends meet themselves, and so it seems rather akin to trying to squeeze blood from a stone.

I have even personally struggled with feeling like I am not genuinely appreciated for myself or my art by those groups I have been involved with, and that I am just being taken advantage of monetarily or regarding volunteer time. But I'm not going to rant about that since I don't that feel complaining in and of itself is the most productive course of action, and because I feel that it really just evidences the fact that I've been far too overextended for far too long.

So now that I'm looking at having to cut back, I thought I'd write about weighing the benefits and costs to be more selective about involvement, since I know this affects a lot of artists beyond just myself. I'm going to organize these thoughts in a new post so that they are easy to navigate (outside of this rant) and can act as some advice to those in similar situations and circumstances, so look out for that coming up in my next blog post.

Only Two Days Left

2012-01-12T09:00:00.001-06:00

There are only two days left to enter the January raffle on my 10-year anniversary blog, so be sure to drop by soon if you want to enter. Entries must be placed by midnight on Jan. 14. The drawing will be held Jan. 15.

http://10yearsofjenniferweigelart.blogspot.com/2012/01/january-raffle-enter-to-win-this.html

Showcase365

2012-01-04T18:40:00.003-06:00

Friend and fellow artist Sam Davis recently featured me on Showcase365 exploring local St. Louis talent on his blog. I am honored to be included; the blog showcase has featured several remarkably talented individuals from all walks of life. Please feel free to check it out here.

http://samdavisstudios.wordpress.com/2012/01/04/jennifer-weigel/

Art of the Week: January Raffle

2012-01-02T10:50:00.005-06:00

I am posting my January raffle prize as Art of the Week this week! Here is Deserted, a mixed media assemblage from my Forgotten series.

This piece will be my first raffle prize for my 10 year anniversary celebration. Please check it out by following the link below. Just follow the instructions on the 10-year anniversary party blog to enter. Since this is my first raffle, I may have some kinks to work out, but hopefully it will all make sense.

http://10yearsofjenniferweigelart.blogspot.com/2012/01/january-raffle-enter-to-win-this.html

10 Year Anniversary Celebration

2011-12-26T20:04:00.004-06:00

It's hard to believe that 2012 will be my ten-year anniversary as a practicing artist since my graduation from Webster University! I am planning a year-long celebration and have even devoted a blog to this (just follow the link below).

Please feel free to check it out and to check back frequently for more updates and cool stuff. I will be posting raffles for free artworks on the first of every month, linking to eBay auctions and hosting other fun things as well. The party will officially get rolling on Jan. 1 with a raffle, so make sure to drop by then to enter.

http://10yearsofjenniferweigelart.blogspot.com/

Art of the Week, Continued: More GaGa

2011-12-22T19:49:00.003-06:00

Here are some photos of the Lady GaGa performance itself, in which I lip-synched "Poker Face" for Jim Horne's Wednesday country and western dance night. Thank you to Jim for sharing these.

Art of the Week: Lady GaGa

2011-12-22T12:10:00.003-06:00

Friend and fellow artist Jim Horne asked me to impersonate Lady GaGa for one of his deejay events, so I'm posting a photo of my outfit as art of the week. Happy holidays!

Art of the Week: Dala Horses

2011-12-09T08:28:00.005-06:00

My friend gave me these two charming little wooden horses in a paint-a-horse kit so I customized them to resemble frolicking Swedish Dala Horses. I'm happy with how they turned out so I thought I'd post them as Art of the Week.

Please keep in mind that I'll be at the Winter Craft Festival on Sunday with my jewelry and related fiber goods (gift bags & purses). Pere Marquette Lodge is always fun and a wonderful getaway destination, and I hope you'll consider dropping by. It will be a great holiday shopping opportunity to buy handmade gifts in support of local artists and artisans.

Winter Craft Festival
Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center
13653 Lodge Blvd.
Grafton, IL
Dec. 11, 2011, 11 AM - 3 PM

The Winter Craft Festival will be the last big event that I'm involved in until 2012, although I may have some artworks included in the upcoming Northern Arts Council rotations at Cork Wine Bar & Ferguson Brewing Company and the St. Louis Women's Caucus for Art rotation at Spirits Lounge.

And keep an eye out for some exciting things happening come January - I have some big things in the works including a year-long celebration. More details will be forthcoming later this month.

This Week

2011-12-06T15:35:00.002-06:00

I am participating in one more art market for the holidays, this Sunday at Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center. If you have never been to Pere Marquette Lodge before, be sure to check it out sometime - it's a wonderful getaway destination.

Winter Craft Festival
Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center
13653 Lodge Blvd.
Grafton, IL
Dec. 11, 2011, 11 AM - 3 PM

Also, don't forget about the holiday parties happening over the course of the week. They should be a lot of fun.

Holiday Show
St. Charles County Arts Council
Lillian Yahn Gallery
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Holiday Party: Thursday, Dec. 8, 6 - 8 PM

$100 Show
holiday boutique
Soulard Art Market
2028 S. 12th St.
St. Louis, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Holiday Party: Friday, Dec. 9, 7 - 10 PM

And please feel free to check out some of my past posts and my Current & Upcoming Events sidebar on this blog to see what else I'm involved in for the holidays.

Art of the Week: Shoes...

2011-12-01T13:15:00.003-06:00

I am creating new works incorporating designer shoes for an upcoming show at the St. Charles County Arts Council in 2012 and wanted to share a preview. This piece, which has yet to be titled, is a treehouse of sorts and was made in response to this boot, which I felt made a good trunk.

This Week

2011-11-28T18:12:00.004-06:00

This week I will have more necklaces and some teeny tiny paintings in the show opening at Framations in St. Charles. I am also a resident artist there with my jewelry, so I have lots of lovely gift ideas to offer, as do the other artists involved in the show and as residents. Please support local artists and artisans this holiday season.

Keeping It Simple
Framations
218 North Main St.
St. Charles, MO
Dec. 2011
Reception: Friday, Dec. 2, 6 - 8
Framations is collecting non-perishable food and toiletry items for local food pantries, so please bring something to donate.

Also, keep an eye out for more art shows and markets for the holidays: I am very busy right now and am working to get as much of my more giftable work out there as possible, continuing into December. Lots of holiday parties are coming up and I hope you'll consider coming - it will be great fun.

Holiday Show
St. Charles County Arts Council
Lillian Yahn Gallery
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Holiday Party: Thursday, Dec. 8, 6 - 8 PM

$100 Show
holiday boutique
Soulard Art Market
2028 S. 12th St.
St. Louis, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Holiday Party: Friday, Dec. 9, 7 - 10 PM

A Few of My Favorite Things...
Gallery 501 at Art Glass Array
501 N. Kingshighway
St. Charles, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011

Give a Gift of Art
Columbia Art League
207 S. Ninth St.
Columbia, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011

And remember you can always find more of my work at these galleries:
Jewelry:
Art Saint Louis, 555 Washington Ave. Ste. 150, St. Louis, MO
By Design, 136 Front St., Alton, IL
Columbia Art League Members' Shop, 207 S. Ninth St., Columbia, MO
Framations, resident artist, 218 North Main St., St. Charles, MO
St. Charles County Arts Council, Lillian Yahn Gallery, 7443 Village Center Dr., O' Fallon, MO
Steelville Arts Council, Yakdin Creek Mercantile, 115 E. Main St., Steelville, MO
Painting:
Artfully Alton, The Second Reading Book Shop, 16 E. Broadway, Alton, IL

Claude's photo day

2011-11-26T03:24:00.004-06:00

Claude made some more friends during his photo day and enjoyed all of the wonderful snacks; he hopes that everyone loved the Claude cupcakes as much as he did. He is excited about the holiday party coming up in December.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T18:52:00.005-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I am so very fortunate to be able to do what I love and to take chances in my art. I want to extend a hearty thank you to all of my friends and family for your untiring support, and especially to my husband Chuck for always being there for me. I am truly blessed to have you in my life.

Claude also wants to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving! He is most grateful to have been involved in my art and for his shows with Cranky Yellow and the St. Charles County Arts Council. Please don't forget to swing by the arts council tomorrow for his big photo shoot from noon - 4 PM if you want to have a picture taken with him for the holidays. He has even been baking up some sweet snacks for the event, including these adorable monster cupcakes.

This Week

2011-11-20T20:33:00.005-06:00

Claude wants to remind everyone to stop by the St. Charles County Arts Council on Black Friday, Nov. 25 from noon - 4 PM if they want to participate in the Claude photo day. He is even planning some fun snacks, and you all know how Claude loves his sweets.

I will be gearing up for a couple of events over this Thanksgiving weekend. First, I will be helping Claude with his photo opportunity day as noted above. And I will be participating in the Northern Arts Council's holiday boutique with my jewelry on Sunday during Ferguson's Northern Lights Festival.

Holiday Show
St. Charles County Arts Council
Lillian Yahn Gallery
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Reception: Thursday, Nov. 10, 6 - 8 PM
Claude's photo day: Friday, Nov. 25, noon - 4 PM
Holiday Party: Thursday, Dec. 8, 6 - 8 PM

NAC at the Corner
Northern Arts Council
Corner Coffee House
100 N. Florissant St.
Ferguson, MO
Nov. 27, noon - 6 PM
during Ferguson's Northern Lights Festival

This Week

2011-11-13T15:17:00.000-06:00

This week I will have some of my smaller plein air paintings on display at Art Glass Array's Gallery 501. Perfectly sized and affordably priced for holiday gift giving.

A Few of My Favorite Things...
Gallery 501 at Art Glass Array
501 N. Kingshighway
St. Charles, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Reception: Thursday, Nov. 17, 7 - 9 PM

Also, keep an eye out for more art shows and markets for the holidays: I am very busy right now and am working to get as much of my more giftable work out there as possible, starting with several shows opening this past week and continuing into December.

Holiday Show
St. Charles County Arts Council
Lillian Yahn Gallery
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Reception: Thursday, Nov. 10, 6 - 8 PM
Holiday Party: Thursday, Dec. 8, 6 - 8 PM

$100 Show
holiday boutique
Soulard Art Market
2028 S. 12th St.
St. Louis, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Reception: Friday, Nov. 11, 7 - 10 PM
Holiday Party: Friday, Dec. 9, 7 - 10 PM

Give a Gift of Art
Columbia Art League
207 S. Ninth St.
Columbia, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011

And remember you can always find more of my work at these galleries:
Jewelry:
Art Saint Louis, 555 Washington Ave. Ste. 150, St. Louis, MO
By Design, 136 Front St., Alton, IL
Columbia Art League Members' Shop, 207 S. Ninth St., Columbia, MO
Framations, resident artist, 218 North Main St., St. Charles, MO
St. Charles County Arts Council, Lillian Yahn Gallery, 7443 Village Center Dr., O' Fallon, MO
Steelville Arts Council, Yakdin Creek Mercantile, 115 E. Main St., Steelville, MO
Painting:
Artfully Alton, The Second Reading Book Shop, 16 E. Broadway, Alton, IL

Claude Makes More Friends

2011-11-10T22:32:00.002-06:00

Here are some more of the many people Claude met tonight at the reception.

Claude Goes to the Lillian Yahn Gallery

2011-11-10T22:21:00.005-06:00

Claude had a blast at the reception for the holiday show at the St. Charles County Arts Council's Lillian Yahn Gallery. He made a ton of new friends and is looking forward to meeting more people. He is hoping others will stop by to have their pictures taken and is making a point to invite everyone out for photo opportunities on Friday, Nov. 25 and for the holiday party on Thursday, Dec. 8.

Holiday Show
St. Charles County Arts Council
Lillian Yahn Gallery
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Reception: Thursday, Nov. 10, 6 - 8 PM
Claude Photo Day: Friday, Nov. 25, noon - 4 PM
Holiday Party: Thursday, Dec. 8, 6 - 8 PM

This Week; Claude Returns

2011-11-08T15:48:00.004-06:00

Claude is excited to celebrate the holidays at the St. Charles County Arts Council Lillian Yahn Gallery! Claude, everyone’s favorite lovable 7 foot tall plush Bigfoot (most notably seen here on my blog), will be on vacation from his home with Jennifer Weigel & Charles Wilbur for the holiday show at the Lillian Yahn Gallery. He would love for you to join him for the reception this Thursday and will even be available for photos during the upcoming holiday party.

I am also participating in three other shows opening this week, including two exhibitions at Art Saint Louis. I will also have a selection of paintings available for holiday shopping at Soulard Art Market. Please stop by and check it out.

Holiday Show
St. Charles County Arts Council
Lillian Yahn Gallery
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Reception: Thursday, Nov. 10, 6 - 8 PM
Holiday Party: Thursday, Dec. 8, 6 - 8 PM

$100 Show
holiday boutique
Soulard Art Market
2028 S. 12th St.
St. Louis, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Reception: Friday, Nov. 11, 7 - 10 PM

Art St. Louis XXVII
and
Artist's Day at Circus Flora
Art Saint Louis
555 Washington Ave. Ste. 150
St. Louis, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011
Reception: Saturday, Nov. 12, 6 - 9 PM

I have a painting in the holiday show at the Columbia Art League, opening this week as well.

Give a Gift of Art
Columbia Art League
207 S. Ninth St.
Columbia, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2011

This Week

2011-10-31T19:59:00.000-05:00

I am honored to be participating in the Women's Caucus for Art's groundbreaking Man As Object: Reversing the Gaze exhibition at SOMArts in San Francisco for which I created my Manhood piece. Please check it out - this is probably the biggest show I've been in to date and features works by numerous women artists whose works I studied in college.

Man As Object: Reversing the Gaze
Women's Caucus for Art
SOMArts
934 Brannan St.
San Francisco, CA
Nov. 2011
Reception: Nov. 4, 6 - 9 PM
Other events include a Peep Show Drawing Circle & Performance on Nov. 13 and a closing reception on Nov. 30.

Inspirational Words & Personal Goals

2011-10-29T10:32:00.003-05:00

Some people come into our lives and quickly go.
Some people move our souls to dance. They awaken us to new understanding with the passing whisper of their wisdom.
Some people make the sky more beautiful to gaze upon.
They stay in our lives for awhile, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never ever the same.
~ by Flavia Weedn ~

Although I've been kind of down lately on and off, I've been slowly emerging from it and am starting to reassess my life and what I want from it. I strive to be one of those people that lingers and inspires. I am becoming more and more determined to live my live following two basic principles. I am posting them here as a reminder to myself.

- I try as best I can to follow The Golden Rule of treating others as you wish to be treated yourself.

- I also seek to fearlessly pursue my art without compromising my integrity, idea or vision, without apology, and to encourage others to think & see things in a new light, spawn conversations, and promote creativity.

I realize that these are lofty sentiments, but they are core principles that I hold very dear. I only hope that I can live up to them and shall do my best to do so.

On Nurturing & Supporting Each Other

2011-10-28T08:40:00.009-05:00

I am very passionate about art and want to connect with artists from diverse walks of life and artistic explorations because I simply love it. It is my life. In doing so, I try really hard to be supportive of other artists because I am genuinely interested in their well-being so that they can continue to make art, even despite (or perhaps because of) adverse circumstances.

That said, I find that a lot of people, not artists but in general, take advantage. I don't think that all of them intend to; a vast majority aren't even aware of their doing so and are just too self-focused to see their impacts on others for whatever reason. But it is sorrowing to me nonetheless. This was sort of summed up in a recent discussion I had with my husband in which he pointed out that I have to choose whether to let other people walk all over me or to be another asshole myself. But that is not a choice I want to have to make, because I find it disheartening that every option accepts "asshole-ness" as a given.

It is just my nature to want to help, but I find it unfortunate that being cast in a "nurturing" role isn't more appreciated or valued. A lot of people seem to treat me as though I am myself unimportant, like my existence is always tied to a supporting role in the shadows and that I am personally not important enough to get my own chance at the spotlight or to even deserve to be so supported or nurtured myself. But I cannot change my empathy, and to me it reflects upon the Golden Rule of treating others as you wish to be treated. Overall I would like to see more people supporting each other so I strive to live my life by example.

Perhaps I'm too much of an idealist, but I would rather live in a world where we look out for one another and support one another and leave the "asshole-ness" behind us. So work with me on this.Go out of your way to notice or do something outside of your routine. Say something nice to a stranger. Open a door for someone. Call or visit a friend or family member to let them know you care... Engage in making a difference!

Even a simple act of kindness can be a ray of sunshine in another person's life. If it seems like you can't make a difference just remind yourself that every action counts, for better or for worse and no matter how insignificant it may at first seem. Most everyone is familiar with the starfish parable in some way, though few are aware that it was adapted from a book by Loren Eiseley, but please feel free to check out one version here.
The Starfish Story: http://muttcats.com/starfish.htm

This Week

2011-10-12T08:46:00.003-05:00

My Midwest folding screen will be included in the upcoming Tenor of Textiles show at Soulard Art Market, opening this Friday, so please feel free to drop by and check it out.

Tenor of Textiles
Soulard Art Market
2028 S. 12th St.
St. Louis, MO
Oct. 2011
Reception: Friday, Oct. 14, 7 - 10 PM
Includes textile-inspired artworks by:
Kacey Cowdery, Carla Duncan, Addoley Dzegede, Robyn Ferraro, Sharon Kilfoyle, Jacqueline Pruitt, Lynn Robey, Perla Segovia, Jennifer Weigel, Elizabeth Wilcox

Expired Reception

2011-10-06T22:35:00.002-05:00

Thank you to Alexis Weigel for taking these great photos at the Expired reception tonight at Gallery Visio. It was a blast dressing up for the show opening while also getting to go to The Addams Family at the Fabulous Fox Theater in costume!

This Week

2011-10-03T16:38:00.001-05:00

I have works in a couple of Halloween-themed shows opening this week. I am looking forward to the Expired zombie-themed show at Gallery Visio - please feel free to drop by and check it out. I will be showing my fashion Barbies for the first time. I am also honored to have work in another show at Altered Esthetics; Insomnia will be on display there.

Expired
Gallery Visio
University of Missouri - St. Louis
170 MSC (Millenium Student Center)
One University Blvd.
St. Louis, MO
Oct. 2011
Reception: Thursday, Oct. 6, 4 - 7 PM

Fear Itself
Altered Esthetics
1224 Quincy St. NE
Minnesota, MN
Oct. 2011

Interview

2011-09-29T09:09:00.004-05:00

I was recently featured in Bizarre Magazine in a piece about bodily fluids and art. It is a genuine honor to be interviewed and included among so many highly esteemed and controversial contemporary artists. Please feel free to check it out here.
http://www.bizarremag.com/weird-news/bizarre-life/11299/body_fluid_artists.html

Claude Makes a New Friend

2011-09-26T23:30:00.004-05:00

Claude is enjoying his retirement hanging out with his friends in the Rock Band den. He is happy to welcome his new friend, Pat, from The Rabbit Project by Imogen Toner, in which hundreds of precious tiny clay rabbits have been sent from England via mail all over the world to be photographed in special places in honor of a very special toy rabbit. (Pat can be seen sitting atop Feral Pig's head.) Also included in this picture are Cactus Jake, a crocheted donkey in sombrero found at a garage sale; Feral Pig by Christina Ward; Itchy by Jane Wang; and Sock Monkey, made by my mother.

Regarding Size

2011-09-18T22:57:00.004-05:00

A lot of artists are prodded to work larger and I have been questioned in this regard on numerous occasions. I've even written about the bias here on my blog before. But a fellow artist voiced something to me at an art fair this weekend that caught me off guard because I'd never perceived of it that way before: that she felt a need to work larger in order to legitimize her work.

I really didn't know how to respond to this. I still don't. I just can't relate. I've never bought into the "bigger is better" argument that so many artists seem to. All too often it seems that size can become a way of compensating for or hiding from shortcomings, as if some artists think to themselves that they can make up for what they lack in vision or technical ability by working bigger or hide from it by working smaller.

I suppose I understand the uncertainty and desire to legitimize one's work, but I just don't correlate that with size. I see legitimacy more as coming from response and/or pushing boundaries: winning an award, showing in more prestigious or varied settings, selling an artwork, receiving a grant or residency, developing a strong & cohesive body of work, developing a new technique, taking or teaching a workshop or class, experimenting & growing as an artist... In my mind all of those things serve to legitimize and assert oneself as an artist more than working larger simply for its own sake.

I find it personally better not to question legitimacy in the first place. I guess maybe I'm just more confident in my art than some. I try not to question the integrity of what I do; I just seek to create is all. Sometimes the results are better than others but all of it is a learning experience, good or bad.

Taking Responsibility for Your Own "Crazy"

2011-09-16T23:00:00.006-05:00

It is highly impeccable that you recognize that not everyone else perceives of things the exact same way that you do. Your individuality and uniqueness will come across in your art, whether you embrace it or not and for better or for worse. What may seem perfectly normal to you may seem totally alien to another and visa versa. So, you have to come to realize that not everyone else will understand your art as you do, and this plays an important role in showing your work.

My husband and were recently discussing how so many artists are quick to assume that those hanging their work will graciously display it perfectly, just as they designed it to be seen. Even despite the following: alternative presentations that don't abide by prospectus guidelines, poor instructions on how it goes together, components missing or flawed... And that said gallery personnel will hang said artwork happily and not feel put upon or bothered by any extra demands on their time and skills to do so at all. However, this is not the case. What may seem like an elaborate but elegant and beautiful installation to you as the artist will likely appear as a chaotic jumble of parts to whomever unpacks or has to hang it. So I call upon you to make every effort to ensure that your artwork is installed properly as you would like it to be shown. We called this "taking responsibility for your own 'crazy'" because of that disconnect and the artist's need to work to ensure their own artwork is shown as they would like.

Ideally you should plan to install anything that deviates from a standard plop-it-on-a-pedestal or well-balanced wired wall-hung piece yourself. If you cannot install your own work make sure you converse with the gallery assistant and exhibitions staff beforehand. Include explicit instructions for installation that incorporate pictures (preferably photos and not sketches). Make absolutely certain that all of the proper parts are there and even include spare parts if possible, but make sure to label them as such to avoid confusion. Above all, as I've said time after time, communication is key so make sure that you keep the lines of communication open and professional.

This Week

2011-09-13T17:03:00.004-05:00

With all of the focus on fiber arts during Innovations in Textiles, I have been very busy and am involved in several shows opening this week.

Fiber Arts Members' Exhibition
St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Caucus for Art
Spirits Lounge
300 State St.
Alton, IL
Sept. - Oct. 2011
WCA girls' night out: Thursday, Sept. 15, 6:30 - 9 PM

Rogue to Vogue 2: Fashion Reinvented
Chesterfield Arts
444 Chesterfield Center
Chesterfield, MO
Sept. - Oct. 2011
Reception: Friday, Sept. 16, 6 - 8 PM
My Au Naturel ensemble is featured in this show.

Fiber Focus 2011
Art Saint Louis
555 Washington #150
St. Louis, MO
Sept. - Oct. 2011
Reception: Friday, Sept. 16, 6 - 10 PM
I have two pieces in this highly competitive juried exhibition: Going Digital and Summer Camp: Intro to Weaving. The juror Lia Cook will be at the reception from 8:30 - 10 PM after her show opens at Duane Reed Gallery. I also won't arrive until later on as I hope to attend the Chesterfield Arts reception awhile first.

Also, the 4th annual Alton plein air paintout is happening Saturday, Sept. 17. I am looking forward to participating again. The riverfront Mississippi Earthtones Festival is always a joy. Please feel free to drop by and check it out.

Artfully Alton & Alton Marketplace
Mississippi Earthtones Festival Plein Air Event
Alton Riverfront Amphitheater
Alton, IL
Sept. 17, 2011

This Week

2011-09-07T19:51:00.003-05:00

It's time for the big Innovations in Textiles biennial focus on fiber arts in St. Louis, throughout the months of September and October. I have work in several shows in conjunction with the event including Fiber Content opening this week at Framations.

Fiber Content
Framations
218 North Main St.
St. Charles, MO
Sept. - Oct. 2011
reception: Friday, Sept. 9, 6 - 8 PM

Art of the Week: More Cake

2011-08-30T07:29:00.004-05:00

Remember my Art Is Everywhere cake from the first open forum cake decorating? Well, this past Thursday we went to the second such event and decorated cupcakes. I decorated this chocolate cupcake dragon, and Chuck joked later that I should post its size and lifespan here on my blog. He decorated these two bavarian cream filled chocolate cupcakes with flowers. We indulged in our treats at the park near the grocery store after creating them. Oh, how I love buttercream frosting...

Cupcake Dragon
Genus: Chocolate Cake
Length: approximately 8"
Lifespan: 10 minutes

This Week

2011-08-23T10:24:00.005-05:00

I have been trying do less in August in anticipation of all of the big fiber events coming up in September and October, but I will be participating in an art fair this weekend. The weather is supposed to be wonderful and it will be nice to visit with my stepmother, who will be bringing some of her own creations to vend as well. I have been to the winery before for a friend's wedding, and it is quite lovely.

Wine & Art Festival
Hidden Lake Winery
10580 Wellen Rd.
Aviston, IL
Aug. 27 & 28, 2011

I also have some new work in the upcoming Hint Fiction show at Columbia Art League. For this unique exhibition, artists were invited to create two works in response to stories in Hint Fiction: An Anthology of Stories in 25 Words or Fewer. Artists had to register what stories they intended to create works from to ensure that a diverse range of interpretations and stories could be included. (Each story was limited to a maximum of three interpretations.) Some excerpts from the book can be found on the art league's site here.

Hint Fiction
Columbia Art League
207 S. Ninth St.
Columbia, MO
Aug. - Sept. 2011

Weight Loss

2011-08-19T10:48:00.017-05:00

I have struggled with my weight all of my life and have worked really hard in the past year to drop it. I find it saddening how many people who lose weight joke that "I used to live to eat, now I eat to live." I find this holding true for myself as well, and it depresses me that something that once brought me pleasure does not anymore. I cannot eat anything or indulge in anything without thinking about the potential consequences and whether or not it will make me gain weight, which makes me not want to bother to eat at all as very few things seem worth it.

I started dieting because I grew weary of having to hear every doctor I ever went to tell me that I needed to lose weight, even when I wasn't clinically obese, and I was in a situation where I wound up seeing a lot of doctors in a short time in response to a medical diagnosis in the fall and so it kept coming up. My body was always happiest at 150 but that still is overweight as far as the medical community is concerned. The final push was twofold. First, I acquired a Wii Fit, which is programmed with a double standard by making you choose a response from a checklist in response to gaining more than a pound over a day's time when you're either trying to lose or maintain, whereas it doesn't do this the other way around when you lose an equivalent amount of weight, even if you're underweight and are trying to gain. (I know because I have now been on both sides of what it considers to be ideal.) But the daily check-in just made me really self-conscious about everything I ate and did and made me feel too accountable.

I will admit that I did need to lose some weight though - I'd drifted up over the course of time. I was feeling pretty good about myself after I had lost over 40 pounds and gotten to around 150. But then I went to a specialist about a recurring medical issue and, in response to telling her I was trying to lose weight, was told that losing weight is hard and that I should keep working at it because if I did so my symptoms would likely disappear on their own. Both things combined to further fuel a cycle of self-hatred and I am now at the lowest weight I have ever been since middle school. It depresses me that I can count every rib and every vertebrae in my spine and yet by weight and height alone am considered to be "healthy" according to the medical charts.

I know I shouldn't let others' opinions of me affect me so, but when I'm down I struggle with feeling as though I'm being judged and so it tends to feed into itself. I have a horrible self-image, especially regarding my body. I hated what I looked like when I was larger and I still hate what I look like now that I'm not. I feel like a deflated balloon and see only see my flaws. But the attitude shift regarding food deeply saddens me because I cannot indulge in one of the only things I found comfort in. It's not like food was a constant overindulgence, but now it seems more of an enemy than a friend and I really don't want to eat out or be in social situations at all. I guess I just need to keep reminding myself to try not to buy into all of the body image BS but I feel as though I'm bombarded with it constantly.

Why do we live in a culture that encourages overindulgence while embracing self-denial? I realize that unhappy people make better consumers because they are trying to fill a void. And while it's true that money doesn't buy happiness, a lot of people spend an awful lot of it trying. I know that those trying to sell me something don't care about my emotional well-being, they just want to make money off whatever it is that they're peddling, whether it be an idea like what is perceived of as attractive or a physical thing like a soda.

But I just don't have the energy left to fight it anymore, I'm too drained. I have always incorporated this in my art, which has been my primary means of coping with it, and now am doing a little better as I am working on more art again. But where does it end? I wish I didn't need art as a catharsis, that I didn't even need an outlet for my pent up frustrations because I could just ignore all of it. Or, better yet, that the double standards and mixed messages weren't there in the first place and we could all just be allowed to be at peace with ourselves rather than being constantly bombarded by someone trying to sell us something or chastise us for deviating from what is considered "normal".

Volunteering

2011-08-16T08:56:00.007-05:00

I know I've ranted about artists constantly being hit up for donations of their money, art & time and have spoken about the generosity of artists before, but today I'm going to take an opportunity to encourage artists to volunteer.

There are many benefits of volunteering for art organizations that you are involved with. So many artists just see memberships in art organizations as lines for the resume, support systems for emerging artists, or opportunities to exhibit, but they can offer so much more than that. I have spoken before about becoming actively involved, and I strongly encourage art organization members to do so.

Active members' voices are heard more than those who just pay their dues. (Note: some members are more active by contributing more monetarily, this is not solely based upon time involvement.) It is the active members who will be sought first to offer insights into how organizations are managed and what they want to see happen. So by becoming involved you can help determine focus and direction and shape the organization.

Volunteering can help you network with those running the organization and other members and artists who are involved. Helping out with drop off and pick up of art, working receptions, sitting a table during an art fair and other similar tasks can offer great opportunities to meet others and to get to know those involved in the organization better.

Uncrating shipped works enables you to see how other artists pack their works for shipment and what works and doesn't work for them and why. You can then refer to this knowledge later when preparing your own artworks to ship.

Helping to hang shows is a huge benefit because you can see the end effects of curating and how artworks are positioned in the space in addition to examining how other artists prepare their works for hanging. You get a better feel for the flow of the show and for how different galleries and spaces do things differently. This can help when considering curating an exhibition yourself or when hanging or preparing your own work for display.

By being actively involved, you gain invaluable knowledge of what goes on behind the scenes and get to know more people in the organization. You can put that information to use to make it easier on those working with you and to better understand their processes, thus making a better professional impression while establishing contacts. And, the more you do so, the more you'll find that others are willing to work with you towards larger scale projects or with alternative presentations because they know and respect you.

This Week

2011-08-12T06:51:00.005-05:00

I know it's short notice, but I hadn't totally formulated my schedule until yesterday. There are a couple of things going on this week so I thought I'd mention them.

My cats, Sam & Ginger, will have artwork on display in the Fur Elise show at White Flag Projects on Saturday (tomorrow). The show is comprised of "objects made from collected fur brushings." Sam and Ginger worked with me to create a series of Hairballs for the event, although they've been overzealous and have still been creating more hairballs even since I dropped their artwork off. I guess that's what I get for encouraging them...

Fur Elise
White Flag Projects
4568 Manchester, St. Louis, MO
Saturday, Aug. 13, 2011, 1 - 3 PM

I am also going to be plein air painting during the 18th Century Home & Garden Tour at the Government House. Columbia Art League members were invited to paint and display some of their paintings at the event. The weather is supposed to be gorgeous and I'm really looking forward to it; plein air painting and home tours go very well together and I miss the Lafayette Square plein air event greatly.

18th Century Home & Garden Tour
Government House
Ste. Genevieve, MO
Saturday, Aug. 13 - Sunday, Aug. 14, 2011
I will only be participating on Sunday. Tickets to the homes tour will be required and cost $20 each.

Revisiting Some Past Blog Posts

2011-08-11T09:13:00.001-05:00

I used to blog a lot more in response to my life and in general, and often posted advice and insights to help other artists on their own journeys. I try to revisit these themes on occasion and to bring up past posts, but please feel free to follow this link to see some of my past advice posts.

http://chaoticblacksheep.blogspot.com/search/label/advice

Determining Quality

2011-08-10T10:27:00.004-05:00

I was recently invited to a discussion of art in St. Louis and the idea of quality kept recurring. This got me thinking about the role of the artist in determining quality, and so I am hoping to better formulate my views on this on my blog here.

Frankly, I don't think that the determination of quality is genuinely the role of the artist. Now I know that notion likely seems very idealistic and is probably a turnoff to many, but I strongly believe that the artist's role is primarily to create. I know that all of us censor ourselves in regards to what we do and don't show. Many artists are their own worst critics and can get wrapped up in ideas of quality all too easily. But I am personally striving to do so less and to move towards creating without questioning.

Many people have branded me one of the most creative people they know, and I firmly believe this to result from my desire not to self-censor. I have cautioned against stifling one's own creativity on my blog before. The more we question what we're doing, the more likely we are to kill our muse, to shoot down ideas before we can even fully explore and formulate them. I have even tried to start discussions about how we censor ourselves to get a better feeling for what other artists do, since I find that I don't do so near as often as most. But it is imperative that we allow ourselves to play and explore, not just as children but into adulthood, and this is not just specific to artists. When we give ourselves that freedom we come up with ideas we may have otherwise thought unfathomable.

So who do I think plays the role of determining quality, if not the artist? I believe that the art historian, buyer or critic can and will do so. The art historian determines what is acknowledged and remembered for the future, what is written about and studied. Though the artist must be able to put a price on his/her work, it is essentially the buyer who determines whether or not that price is justified by choosing whether or not to pay it. And the critic examines artworks and evaluates shows as good or bad, drawing the public to either agree or not. Why force these roles upon those making the art? And don't get me wrong, artists can also be strong art historians, buyers and critics, but I believe that it behooves them not to do so when examining their own artwork to avoid the potentially paralyzing effects of overanalysis.

Trying to Chill Out

2011-08-09T07:35:00.007-05:00

I know I can be a bit of a control freak, which causes me a lot of stress in the art community at times since I often find myself working with people who are simply not as neurotic or organizationally-obsessed as I am. But I am really trying to chill out more and let things slide. It is still very awkward and part of me really wants to step in and take control, but I think I'm doing better at it.

It has helped being less involved in various groups to focus on myself because I don't have to rely on others to uphold things that reflect back on me. Hopefully someday I'll be able to become more involved again but be less stressed out by it. Ideally I need to learn not to let others' judgments of me affect me so much. When I do have to rely on other people, I shouldn't worry so much about how I am seen as a result of their actions and thus let it affect how I perceive of myself.

It's kind of funny because I've been able to let go in my art for a long while now, since I really started doing more conceptual work to foster conversation. I've had to distance myself in that to avoid being confrontational and to open myself up to more possibilities. But that hasn't been true of my life at all. I often take it too personally when people don't get back to me, lose things or simply forget. But that just comes around to my ego trying to make everything about me even when it isn't, and it doesn't serve me well.

I think when I learn to chill out regarding my own life that I will better be able to integrate my art into it and explore some of the more personal issues I've been struggling with. It will help me to overcome the disparity between the two. Art has always been my life and I've never separated the two in my mind, I just need to chill out more and let things go so that I can live my art.

Fun Opportunity to Celebrate Diversity

2011-08-02T10:25:00.000-05:00

I had heard about this art and writing opportunity in years past but hadn't realized that it has been ongoing, so I thought I'd promote it here. The Embracing Our Differences billboard show in Island Park in Sarasota, Florida is continuing and offers a wonderful opportunity for young and old alike to submit art and quotations about celebrating diversity. I love the idea and submitted a quote myself. Please feel free to check it out here.

http://www.embracingourdifferences.org/index.html

More Artist Pet Peeves

2011-08-02T09:31:00.009-05:00

I try not to complain or to do so in as constructive a manner as I can, but I have to put this out there because it really rubbed me the wrong way. There are a lot of stereotypes and assumptions made about artists that I find bothersome, and though I have written about several of them before I will revisit the topic here.

I was just asked to donate my time and materials to a children's workshop-based event and it annoyed me for several reasons. First, there had been no thought given to compensating artists for their time and materials (the idea was that whatever exposure the artists got from participating would be compensation enough, and where materials would come from wasn't fully considered). Secondly, children would be charged admission to raise money for the organization, which is good as it will help minimize the craziness often associated with these types of events, but I think it shows a lack of awareness that the artists were not going to be offered something of that towards supplies and their time.

One thing that really irks me about this is the unspoken assumption that artists will freely offer their time, talent, expertise, artworks and even art supplies and do so gladly even in exchange for poor exposure or for nothing at all. This is perpetuated when artists do just that, or when they belittle their own art as a hobby, which undermines all artists because it fosters the notion that art is little more than a hobby and feeds into the idea that we don't deserve compensation because we're doing something we enjoy.

Another thing that bothers me about this is that it is assumed that artists love children and would be happy to work with large groups of them in their free time and in what are typically messy and chaotic circumstances. This is simply not true and is an unfair assumption to make of anyone, artist or not. Some artists love children and would love to engage in these types of activities but others simply don't, not necessarily because they don't like children but because they don't want to be placed into that camp counselor role. Some are very clean and tidy and don't handle messes well while others don't know how to respond to large numbers of children all at once and get stressed out by it.

A third thing that deeply bothers me about this is that more women than men are asked to do this sort of thing, which reflects other stereotypes and assumptions based in sexism. Just because I'm female doesn't mean I want to play teacher for a day in my off time or that I want to babysit other peoples' kids. These circumstances befall men as well, as is evidenced by the fact that, at a plein air event, a male friend of mine essentially found himself babysitting a young girl her parents left for several hours after exclaiming that she loved to paint. But this more often befalls women.

I offered some food for thought to those who approached me regarding this. However I felt like I was being judged as if I were selfish for not wanting to participate and should feel guilty. I know some of that lies in my own insecurities, but I shouldn't feel that way at all. It is a lot to ask, whether those asking realize this or not, and I strongly feel that those asking should be more appreciative and recognize just how much they are asking for. It doesn't behoove anyone to guilt trip another for something that they hadn't considered in reverse. So if you find yourself in the position of asking an artist to donate their time, artwork and/or materials, try the idea on for size yourself first and see how it fits - if you are taken aback by it then you probably need to reassess what you're offering in exchange and sweeten the deal.

Enough of my complaining though. To contrast my ranting I'm going to post something about a wonderful project and art & writing opportunity celebrating diversity that involves kids and adults and that I feel doesn't undermine the contributors. It is highly competitive but well-worth checking out and considering applying to - the more responses the better.

Roving Artist's Studio online

2011-07-31T07:25:00.003-05:00

While I was touring other artists' studios and catching up with some friends in the alternative space at Mad Art Gallery, I met Robert Crowe who runs the St. Louis Daily Photo blog. I was among the artists whose portraits he took during the studio tours and the first to be posted to the blog, which is a real honor. Feel free to check it out here.

http://saintlouismodailyphoto.blogspot.com/2011/07/artists-open-studio-and-car-weekend.html

Roving Artist's Studio update

2011-07-30T19:57:00.004-05:00

I am enjoying going from place to place in my car with my Roving Artist's Studio installation. While traveling I am distributing buttons that say "Jennifer Was Here to those artists whose studios I've managed to visit. It has been fun and apparently people are wearing and/or displaying them because, by the end of the day today, several people I'd run into have talked about them after noting me as the source.

Unfortunately I haven't been able to make it out to near so many things as I would like but I did manage to see about half of what was listed. I predominantly went to Soulard and Cherokee Street, although there were a few studios there that I didn't manage to make it by or find and I visited a couple of other parts of town as well. I even ran into the bus tour, which was nice. I have developed a plan of action for tomorrow in the hopes of making it out to see more, although many of the studios on the tour tomorrow are even more widespread so that may prove challenging.

I don't know how many other people have happened upon my piece but several artists have ducked out of their studios to check it out while I'm there. And I am hoping to park close to the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis for the BBQ tomorrow evening so that others who didn't see it can check it out if they like. Please keep an eye out for me tomorrow as I tour other parts of the city and at the BBQ.

Art of the Week: Roving Artist's Studio

2011-07-29T14:45:00.006-05:00

Here's a preview of my artwork for the 2011 City Wide Open Studios event. Today I worked on a drawing for my car installation, which will travel throughout the city during open studios.

This Week

2011-07-27T10:18:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to remind everyone that I will be participating in open studios this weekend, with a traveling installation in my car. The preview party last night went well and my artwork there at the Contemporary Art Museum offers more details about my project, so feel free to drop by and check it out. Otherwise, I'll hope to see you around.

City-Wide Open Studios
sponsored by Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
3750 Washington Blvd.
St. Louis, MO
July 30 - 31, 2011

Art of the Week: Au Naturel

2011-07-21T19:48:00.003-05:00

This week I'm going to feature a new wearable piece I created from a thrift store find and faux flowers. This piece is called Au Naturel as tongue-in-cheek commentary on both man & nature and the fashion industry.

Next Week

2011-07-19T13:26:00.003-05:00

I am also gearing up for the big City Wide Open Studios event again this year. In the past two years I have utilized the event to embark on various institutional critique projects, including my He Said, She Said art fair buttons in 2010 and the debut of my Art Is Everywhere sign project at Keith Buchholz Fluxus St. Louis' Art Farm in 2011.

In keeping with that trend, I am participating with a new institutional critique work called Roving Artist's Studio. Please feel free to come to the preview party to learn more about this weekend-long project.

City-Wide Open Studios
sponsored by Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
3750 Washington Blvd.
St. Louis, MO
July 30 - 31, 2011
Preview Party: Tuesday, July 26, 6 - 9 PM

This Week

2011-07-19T13:02:00.006-05:00

This weekend is the national Women's Caucus for Art summer board meeting, held here in St. Louis where current president Janice Nesser resides. So there are a lot of WCA events and activities, including two that I will be directly involved with as follows.

Art & Social Justice Conference
workshop presenter with a hands-on artist trading card table
St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Caucus for Art
Regional Arts Commission
6128 Delmar Blvd.
St. Louis, MO
Friday, July 22, 2011
Conference cost is $45 + fees & includes box lunch.
Registration: 8 - 9 AM; Conference: 9 AM - 4 PM
Tickets available at eventbrite here through July 20. I believe that a very limited number of tickets will also be available at the door, first come first served, but I'm not entirely certain and it will depend on availability so I'd recommend registering today through eventbrite if you want to attend.

Our Voices, Our Views
St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Caucus for Art
Jeane Vogel Studios
ArtSpace
Crestwood Court
Crestwood, MO
July 2011
Reception: Saturday, July 23, 3 - 5 PM

Although I do not have art in the next two exhibitions listed, here are some more festivities happening for the WCA summer board meeting. Please feel free to check them out and support the group.

Themis
St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Caucus for Art
St. Louis University
Museum of Art
3663 Lindell
St. Louis, MO
July 2011
Reception: Friday, July 22, 7 - 9 PM

Traveling Journal Project
Young Women's Caucus of the Women's Caucus for Art
St. Louis Community College, Florissant-Valley
3400 Pershall Rd.
Ferguson, MO
June - July 2011
Reception: Saturday, July 23, noon - 2 PM

Art of the Week: Let There Be Cake!

2011-07-14T22:15:00.003-05:00

Chuck & I went to an open forum cake decorating at Schnuck's tonight where we each got to decorate and take home our own single-layer 8-inch cakes. I decorated this Art Is Everywhere cake wreck of a marble cake, complete with paint spatters and sprinkles... Yum! :)

This Week

2011-07-05T22:53:00.003-05:00

I will be in the Summer Members' Show at the St. Charles County Arts Council's Lillian Yahn Gallery with several yet unshown institutional critique works, so please feel free to drop by and check it out.

Summer Members' Show: Artist Showcase
St. Charles County Arts Council
Lillian Yahn Gallery
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
July 2011
Reception: Thursday, July 7, 4 - 7 PM

This Week

2011-06-27T19:44:00.004-05:00

It's turning out to be a busy summer for me, and I have artworks in two out-of-town shows opening this week. I am participating in Feminine Perspective at the Black Door Gallery with my Catharsis custom dolls and am looking forward to attending the reception Friday. I am also the featured artist with my Party Animals drawings in Hope of the Union at Altered Esthetics, which is a real honor. Please keep checking back to see what else I'm involved in - I have a lot of events coming up.

Feminine Perspective
Black Door Gallery
124 S. Spanish
Cape Girardeau, MO
July 2011
Reception: Friday, July 1, 5 - 9 PM

Hope of the Union
featured artist
Altered Esthetics
1224 Quincy St. NE
Minneapolis, MN
July 2011
Reception: Friday, July 1, 7 - 10 PM

One of my Augusta 2011 plein air paintings is also included in the Columbia Art League summer members' show which opened last Thursday.

Members' Summer Open
Columbia Art League
207 S. Ninth St.
Columbia, MO
June - Aug. 2011

This Week

2011-06-22T09:21:00.002-05:00

I have a piece in the upcoming Drift exhibition, which is happening concurrently between Art Saint Louis and the St. Louis Artist's Guild. (My piece is included in the Artist's Guild show.) The show opens this weekend with a reception Saturday evening at Art Saint Louis and another Sunday afternoon at the Artist's Guild. Please feel free to drop in and check it out.

Drift
St. Louis Artist's Guild & Galleries
Two Oak Knoll Park
Clayton, MO
June - Aug. 2011
Reception: Sunday, June 26, 1 - 3 PM

Art of the Week: Circus Flora

2011-06-20T16:05:00.003-05:00

Here is a sketch I created at the Art Saint Louis artist's day at Circus Flora on June 18. It was great fun, although drawing there proved challenging with all of the action. Keep an eye out for an upcoming show through Art Saint Louis.

Insect Bite

2011-06-19T11:08:00.004-05:00

I first noticed this nasty insect bite when I woke up Tuesday. It puffed up like a mosquito bite and itched like mad. But it worsened after that, changing color and getting more irritated, and the symptoms matched those of a spider bite more than a mosquito bite, especially with the fang marks.

It is doing better now (for all that it doesn't look it from the pictures) and it doesn't itch nearly as bad. And I went to the doctor yesterday because it is really scary with it being so close to my eye, and they seem to think it's clearing up and isn't infected, so that's good. Has anyone else had a similar experience and, if so, how long did it take to clear?

Art of the Week: Haunting

2011-06-13T23:36:00.003-05:00

I'd meant to post this at the start of the month but time got away from me. Better late than never. Here is a photo from my Hauntings series, created during a trip out to Jefferson City for the 175th Anniversary Celebration Photography & Art Competition of the Missouri State Penitentiary through Capital Arts.

Paul Reiter Benefit Auction

2011-06-08T07:39:00.004-05:00

There is going to be a benefit auction of artworks by local artists from Paul Reiter's estate, whose tragic and untimely death I wrote about here. The auction will be at Mad Art Gallery on this Sunday, June 12, 3 - 6 PM. I have pasted some details below.

Art Sale for Paul Reiter at Mad Art on June 12
Good Samaritan was murdered while breaking up robbery of neighbor

The family and friends of the late Paul Reiter have planned a silent auction of his large collection of local art in an effort to distribute his work by St. Louis artists and to raise money for the son who survives him.
Paul was a veteran progressive activist and unpretentious arts patron who was active with KDHX in its earliest days, supported almost every cultural institution in town, and served The St. Louis American for 22 years as circulation manager. He was murdered on May 9 when he attempted to chase away a thief breaking into his neighbor's home. He was 58 and is survived by a 20-year-old son who is studying at Saint Louis University.
An exhibit and sale of the Paul Reiter Collection of St. Louis Art will be held 3-6 p.m. Sunday, June 12 at Mad Art Gallery, 2727 S. 12th St. in Soulard.
There is no admission price. Mad Art will operate a cash bar. Award-winning barbecue master Roland Frank will offer cheaply priced Q in the courtyard.
Opening bids for the work will be priced affordably, with the intention of selling everything. All work will come off the walls and go home with buyers that night at the conclusion of the silent auction. Organizers will begin closing the bidding process at 5 p.m. and be finished with all sales by 6 p.m.
Paul's collection included work by Paul LaFlam, Craig Downs, Cindy Royal, Michael Hoffman, Carmelita Nunez, Jeremy Hendry and many other St. Louis artists. It includes paintings, prints, drawings, assemblages and sculptures that range in size from very small to very large. Almost all of the work is professionally framed and ready to be displayed.
"When he was stationed in Japan with the U.S. Navy in the seventies he brought back several souvenirs – tea sets, kimonos, carved wooden doors; and he shipped us wooden clocks from Europe," Paul's sister, Joyce Fraser, said. "He had an interest in the arts and spirituality early on. That began his journey. And it progressed to helping local artists in the St. Louis area."
Fraser said his family was surprised to learn how supportive of the St. Louis arts scene their brother had been. In addition to more than 100 works of local art displayed in his home and office, he collected hundreds of postcards and dozens of posters from the many art shows he had attended all over the metropolitan area.
"St. Louis artists lost a great friend and supporter in Paul," she said.
Fraser said the primary goal of the event is to show Paul's art as a complete collection one more time and then see that that the art gets into the hands of Paul's friends and fellow supporters of St. Louis' lively but under-appreciated art scene. The family also hopes to generate funds to further Paul's son's education. Fraser said anyone who wishes to contribute to Paul's son without bidding on art will have the opportunity to do so at the event.
All proceeds from the art auction and all donations will go to Christopher Paul Reiter, Paul's son.

This Week: Gallery Closing

2011-06-07T04:36:00.004-05:00

The Northern Arts Council will be closing at the end of this month and will be having a final reception this Friday, June 10. The reception will be your last chance to purchase my jewelry at this venue, where I have several necklaces on display. Please drop by and check it out before it's gone.

Northern Arts Council
27 S. Florissant Rd.
Ferguson, MO

Next Week

2011-05-26T13:12:00.001-05:00

I am going to be displaying my Forbidden Fruits series at Shameless Grounds, a new coffeehouse and restaurant that is devoted to providing "a non-judgmental, sex- positive gathering space that could host group meetings, classes, presentations and general merriment." People from all walks of life and sexual orientations & preferences are welcome.

Shameless Grounds
2650 Sidney St.
St. Louis, MO
June 2011
Reception: Wednesday, June 1, 7 - 9 PM

In Memory of Paul Reiter

2011-05-13T18:12:00.004-05:00

I was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Paul Reiter today from a mutual friend. Paul was an amazing person, and perhaps the most noble and humble individual I have ever met. He always gave of himself without question to everything he did and was a strong supporter of & advocate for the arts. He extensively collected works by local artists and attended numerous exhibitions, always bringing a smile & keeping an open mind and encouraging others to do the same.

I first met Paul through the Life Blood Exhibit preview party, where he purchased one of the auctioned artworks to benefit the show. He continued to support the Life Blood Exhibit after that, following both that show and my own personal endeavors, like the Art Is Everywhere sign project, of which he was one of the first to register for a sign and kept that sign in the back window of his van where it could be seen by people all over town. He was always very giving & generous and his continuous presence & support strengthened the art community

Please read this article in the St. Louis American to learn more of Paul's unending support and passion for art, along with his loyalty to his family, the St. Louis American, and the St. Louis community as a whole. He will be sorely missed.

http://www.stlamerican.com/news/local_news/article_c49d4b8e-7c24-11e0-9586-001cc4c03286.html

This Week

2011-05-08T07:08:00.004-05:00

I participated in the Paint Webster Webster Groves plein air event yesterday and experimented some with some new works. The event culminates in a show at the Old Orchard Gallery - this week only!

Paint Webster 2011 exhibition
Old Orchard Gallery
37 S. Old Orchard
Webster Groves, MO
May 9 - 17, 2011

I am also the Featured Artist for Art? at Altered Esthetics with my $1 Store Oil Painting. (This piece is being offered by silent auction over the course of the exhibition so viewers can actively participate in answering some of the questions it raises.) I sent one of my Art Is Everywhere signs to the gallery as well - feel free to check it out here.

Art?
Altered Esthetics
1224 Quincy St. NE
Minneapolis, MN
May 2011

Art of the Week: Rain Rain Go Away

2011-05-05T21:21:00.003-05:00

I had a lovely time in Augusta for the plein air event despite the weather. I created some more conceptual paintings this year and began exploring the use of monochromatic blue to convey rain and am pleased with the result. This diptych is called Rain Rain Go Away and features both Rain and Shine versions of the same scene.

Art of the Week: Living Statuary

2011-04-24T14:10:00.004-05:00

I have been enjoying participating in the annual plein air event in Augusta, Missouri again this year. As I'd mentioned in my last post, I decided to shake things up a bit by doing some performance art this Saturday, now featured here as Art of the Week.

I will continue to paint during the Augusta plein air event from Tuesday - Thursday, weather-permitting, and will have the fruits of my labors offered during the the sale Saturday, April 30, so please feel free to come and check it out.

9th Augusta Plein Air Event
organized through the Greater Augusta Chamber of Commerce
Augusta, MO and surrounding region
April 2011
Sale: Mount Pleasant Winery, Saturday, April 2, 2011, 12 - 6 PM

This Week & Next

2011-04-20T21:16:00.004-05:00

I am in Augusta for the plein air event this week and next. I plan to do as many of the events as possible, weather permitting. (If there's a chance of rain, I don't plan to be out.) I am also going to embark on my first plein air performance art piece during the Saturday event this week. Feel free to check it out - you can follow the event link to download the calendar. All of the events will culminate in a sale on Saturday, April 30.

9th Augusta Plein Air Event
organized through the Greater Augusta Chamber of Commerce
Augusta, MO and surrounding region
April 2011

I also have a piece from my City Life series included in the Red show at Columbia Art League.

Self Struggles

2011-04-18T12:26:00.006-05:00

I'd hinted at some of my recent struggles and need to get back in my studio awhile ago in January. I've still unfortunately been struggling with personal issues and haven't been very productive lately, nor have I felt very sociable in regards to either exhibiting my own art or in showing my support for other artists by attending their shows. I've just withdrawn from life overall.

I have never overcome adversity or dealt with criticism well, which is part of why I've learned to detach in my work. But that detachment is not serving me as well right now, and I am finding myself drawn to making more personal work again. I feel like I'm just on the brink of emerging out from under everything that has gotten me down, and I have actually started to work on art for the first time in months. Nothing big, though some hefty ideas are brewing and in the works, but mostly things I'd left unfinished or little things to get my feet wet again for right now.

I'm planning to participate in the plein air event in Augusta again this year (weather permitting) and I think this will help me get back into the swing of production again. I feel it will do me a lot of good to get away and focus on painting for the next couple weeks, for all that the things I plan to pursue after Augusta are of a totally different nature than my decorative little plein air paintings.

I am starting to formulate some of my thoughts and struggles from the fall into my art, as seen in the recent Barbie project. I think that my resulting work will be much more personal for all that it will still have strong social undertones and be rather direct. (That is just my nature regardless of what I'm making.) So keep an eye out after I get back from Augusta. I hope to make some new work and to be more involved in my art and life again and to overcome the self doubts and insecurities that have plagued me since fall.

Art of the Week: WaterLife

2011-04-13T13:02:00.004-05:00

I am participating in Art for the Earth at The Gardens at Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville again this year with a piece called Water:Life. Water:Life incorporates plastic water bottles with water and food coloring in a found metal trundle bed frame. It was installed yesterday as the first sculpture to appear for the 2011 show, which will officially open at the end of the month. (More sculptures will be coming between now and the end of the month.)

Here are some preview pictures of my piece before it is mulched in, which groundskeeping will do later this week sometime. (I plan to shoot more photos of it later on afterwards.) The colored water has a stained glass effect as seen in the detail.

More Updates

2011-04-11T13:42:00.004-05:00

In addition to writing a review, over the weekend I also updated a couple of other things online.

I posted some photos to the Art Is Everywhere blog from the Women's Caucus for Art, St. Louis' Art: Agent for Change show that opened at Gya on Saturday.

Chuck also added some new features to my website, including my new bio video which had premiered here awhile ago and my Death Sentence installation as seen in the recent showing of Life Blood Exhibit at Gallery Visio. We also added my finished Fashion Zombies piece as seen in progress in Art of the Week.

I will be installing a new outdoor sculpture for Art for the Earth at The Gardens, Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville tomorrow, so check back here later this week to see some photos of my work on display and learn more about the show.

Growing with Scars Review

2011-04-11T13:23:00.004-05:00

I just wrote a review of Diane Kim's Growing with Scars at the Thomas Jefferson School Gallery, so please be sure to check it out here.

I had written a few reviews for the Art Saint Louis' Art Dialogue blog previously, focusing primarily on local artists and shows that I thought may not get the attention they deserved from the press. Unfortunately I haven't had the time to write much since last April, although I have written some short reviews and responses to shows here on my own blog in the interim. I am hoping to become more active in art in St. Louis once again, to attend more shows and possibly even write more as I'm inspired to do so, so keep an eye out. (That is, after I embark on my annual two-week trip for the Augusta plein air painting event through the end of this month.)

This Week & Art of the Week: Muertos

2011-04-06T07:25:00.003-05:00

Muertos is one of seven customized Barbie dolls that will be included in Art: Agent for Change opening this week at Gya. I will also have my remaining Art Is Everywhere signs and menstruation bracelets on display, while supplies last. Please come and check it out.

Art: Agent for Change
St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Caucus for Art
Gya
2700 Locust
St. Louis, MO
April 2011

Reception: Saturday, April 9, 6 - 8 PM

Art: Agent for Change is a Women's Caucus for Art, St. Louis, exhibit that explores change as it relates to art, whether personal, technical, social/political, or economical.

Art of the Week: Fashion Mavens

2011-03-26T19:24:00.004-05:00

Here is a preview of a new digital artwork that I'm working on utilizing custom Barbie dolls. Both dolls were customized using black ink and acrylic paint.

About Myself

2011-03-15T11:35:00.001-05:00

I just put together a brief slideshow video about myself as an artist and my artistic processes. Feel free to check it out here.

This Week

2011-03-09T08:56:00.000-06:00

I will be participating in a couple of shows in St. Charles this week, including Not So Ordinary Women at the St. Charles County Arts Council, where I will have several pieces from my Point of View series on display. I was also juried into Those Who Dream by Night at Framations with one of my recent plein air paintings. Please feel free to come and check them out.

Not So Ordinary Women
St. Charles County Arts Council
Lillian Yahn Gallery
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
March - April 2011
Reception: Thursday, March 10, 4 - 7 PM

Those Who Dream by Night
Framations
218 North Main St.
St. Charles, MO
March - April 2011
Reception: Friday, March 11, 6 - 8 PM

Orchid Show

2011-03-07T08:46:00.005-06:00

Here are some more photos I took at the Missouri Botanical Garden's orchid show. I love how the theme overlaps Fiery Pool: The Maya and the Mythic Sea exhibition currently on view at the St. Louis Art Museum. My favorite thing about the orchid show were the wonderful figurative topiary people and their elaborate headdresses based on pre-Columbian art. Those figures were the main reason I went to draw from the orchid show in the first place, so I thought I'd share them here.

Art of the Week: Zapotec Mask

2011-03-05T10:45:00.006-06:00

I created more ACEOs at the Missouri Botanical Garden's orchid show. This drawing is of a replica of a Zapotec mask accent (on the right). The 2011 orchid show has a Mayan theme.

This Week

2011-03-01T11:56:00.002-06:00

I am participating in several shows opening this week.

Based on a True Story
Columbia Art League
207 S. Ninth St.
Columbia, MO
Mar. - Apr. 2011
Reception: Wednesday, March 2, 6 - 8 PM
My Death Sentence Assemblage is included in this juried show happening in conjunction with the True/False Film Festival.

Mirror Image
St. Louis Community College - Florissant-Valley Art Gallery
3400 Pershall Rd.
Ferguson, MO
March 2011
Reception: Thursday, March 3, 6 - 8 PM
Going Digital will be on display in this exhibition, curated by current Women's Caucus for Art President Janice Nesser.

I also have a variety of fiber artworks in this Missouri Fiber Artists show, which opened during the conference this past Friday.

Missouri Fiber Artists Exhibit
Capital Arts
1203 Missouri
Jefferson City, MO
March 2011

Life Blood Exhibit reception photo

2011-02-28T10:41:00.002-06:00

Here is a photo of me with my art at the Life Blood Exhibit reception at Gallery Visio on Thursday. I have been revisiting some of my past works lately, and this piece includes a print of Death Sentence.

This Week: Life Blood Exhibit Opens!

2011-02-22T20:32:00.001-06:00

Life Blood Exhibit opens at Gallery Visio this Thursday! This traveling exhibition curated by myself explores the theme of women’s reproductive health, from coming of age to motherhood to menopause and more. Each showing features new and different artists and artworks alongside of past inclusions. Some works are humorous while others are serious, but all are thought-provoking. Please see the show, join in the conversation, and help break the taboo!

Life Blood Exhibit
Gallery Visio
170 Millenium Student Center
University of Missouri - St. Louis
Feb. 24 - March 24, 2011
Reception: Thursday, Feb. 24, 4 - 7 PM

http://www.lifebloodexhibit.com/
http://lifebloodexhibit.blogspot.com/

This Week

2011-02-16T11:09:00.000-06:00

I have been very busy this spring and will have work featured in several shows. This week, some of my smaller plein air paintings are going to be on display in Just Left of Spring at the Syndicate Building in downtown St. Louis. And the third showing of Life Blood Exhibit, the traveling menstruation art show that I curated, will open at Gallery Visio on Thursday, Feb. 24 from 4 - 7 PM, so be sure to check back here for more information closer to then.

Just Left of Spring
organized by Paul & Connie LaFlam
Syndicate Building
915 Olive St.
St. Louis, MO
Feb. - March 2011
Reception: Saturday, Feb. 19, 6 - 9 PM

Art of the Week: Girlhood Friends Remembered

2011-02-15T11:01:00.004-06:00

I created these paintings awhile ago at a live art event, painting portraits of handmade dolls that my grandmother had bought for me as a child and that my mother rediscovered when cleaning out her house. These paintings and dolls are currently included in the Women's Art Show at Urban Art Retreat in Chicago, IL, which opened this past weekend.

Women's Art Show
Urban Art Retreat
1957 S. Spaulding Ave.
Chicago, IL
Feb. - March 2011

More Website Updates

2011-02-06T19:44:00.004-06:00

Thank you again to Chuck for working on my website. I seem to resolve to update it more every new year, and this one is no exception. So it's been through a lot of changes here lately.

This time we've posted pictures of some of my more current plein air paintings, along with my new Going Digital piece. Check out the updated plein air section here, including several paintings from 2010 which I just now got around to photographing.

http://jenniferweigelart.com/Environment/PleinAir/index.php

Art of the Week: Going Digital

2011-02-02T08:08:00.000-06:00

This piece has been in the works for awhile now and is a response to my previous question, what do I do with all of these slides? It incorporates art slides from my high school portfolio through 2007, VHS tape, 3 1/2" floppy disks, a slide carousel tray, copper wire and packing tape. This ensemble is meant to comment on how fast technology becomes outdated and how much waste is generated as it does.

Counting My Blessings

2011-01-31T12:11:00.000-06:00

I tend to worry a lot and have been falling into that cycle more than I would like lately. This has made it hard for me to see the whole picture and has inhibited me from working in my studio much to make new art, which I really need to do.

In actuality, I know that I am truly blessed and just need to remind myself of all of the good things I have going on in my life. So I am going to use my blog to count my blessings and point out the many things for which I am grateful. By putting this out there in this manner, I can revisit this post, add more blessings and remind myself not to worry so much.

- I have a wonderful husband who supports me in what I do and who just wants for me to be happy.

- I have my health and am able-bodied.

- I have a roof over my head & plenty to eat and do not want for anything.

- I live in a place where I can express my ideas, thoughts and opinions without fear of persecution.

- I don't need to earn a living off my art and can pursue my ideas wherever my creativity may take me.

- I have the support of friends and family who can help me through tough times and share in my joy.

Art of the Week: ACEOs

2011-01-27T16:28:00.008-06:00

I am totally hooked on ACEOs (Artist Cards, Editions and Originals) and am offering some of my original fantasy cartoons on eBay, along with my remaining fairy horses. Each is cut down to the standard size (2 1/2" x 3 1/2"), backed with matboard in a plastic sleeve and comes with a certificate.

Don't forget about Cold Hands, Warm Hearts boutique this Saturday during the St. Charles Fete de Glace ice carving competition.

Cold Hands, Warm Hearts
jewelry and fashion accessories boutique
Framations
218 North Main St.
St. Charles, MO
Jan. 29, 2011
10 AM - 1 PM

This Week

2011-01-24T19:39:00.003-06:00

I am going to be participating in a jewelry boutique this coming Saturday. The boutique will be at Framations, where I am a resident artist with my jewelry, and will include several local artists selling jewelry and other wearables, just in time for Valentine's Day. The event is happening in during the St. Charles Fete de Glace ice carving competition.

Cold Hands, Warm Hearts
jewelry and fashion accessories boutique
Framations
218 North Main St.
St. Charles, MO
Jan. 29, 2011
10 AM - 1 PM

I also have some artworks in these non-local exhibitions, which opened recently:

Hybrid Identity
Columbia Art League
207 S. Ninth St.
Columbia, MO
Jan. 18 - Feb. 26, 2011

Sanctuaries in Time
Jewish Women Artists' Network of the Women's Caucus for Art
Columbia / Barnard University Kraft Center for Jewish Life
606 W. 115 St.
New York City, NY
Jan. 21 - March 1, 2011

Nature's Human
Chautauqua Lecture Series national exhibition
Fred P. Giles Gallery
309 Campbell Building
Eastern Kentucky University
521 Lancaster Ave.
Richmond, KY
Jan. 24 - Feb. 18, 2011

Real Beauty

2011-01-22T12:14:00.013-06:00

Claudia DeMonte's Real Beauty, currently on exhibit at Webster University's Cecille R. Hunt Gallery, explores global ideas of beauty by incorporating handmade dolls from around the world in a large scale installation. These dolls "speak to women’s lives and their connections to each other" and offer a glimpse into the maker's "perception of the female’s place in society... revealing much about herself in the context of her larger culture."

It is refreshing to see so many perspectives on beauty. Too often it seems that we are faced with very limited notions that demonstrate cultural biases based on age, economic & social standing, ethnicity, race, sexuality, and more. Throughout history, idealized notions of beauty have included "the use of corsets, binding of feet, piercings, plastic surgery... application of chemicals to face and hair." Even today, several industries exist essentially to profit from our insecurities about ourselves by promising that their products, procedures and advice can increase attractiveness.

Like many women, I have struggled personally with my physical appearance and could name a host of things I would change about myself if I could just wave a magic wand and do so. These struggles and those of others I have known have even informed numerous artworks, especially when coupled with my strong desire to overcome judgment and confront stereotypical assumptions. I am very glad that I attended the reception for this exhibition; seeing so many interpretations of beauty from around the world encouraged me to me reevaluate what is truly important and what is genuinely beautiful. Real beauty isn't found just on the surface, it also comes from within, we just need to open our eyes to more possibilities.

Claudia DeMonte
Real Beauty
Cecille R. Hunt Gallery
Webster University - Visual Arts Studios
8342 Big Bend Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63119
Jan. 21 - Feb. 19, 2011

Kindertransport

2011-01-16T10:54:00.006-06:00

I attended the gala reception for the Alton Little Theater season ticket patrons and Artfully Alton show artists on Thursday. Artists were also invited to see Kindertransport that night during the final dress rehearsal/preview show.

Kindertransport, by Diane Samuels, is about the experiences of a woman who had been transported out of Nazi Germany among the 10,000 Jewish child Holocaust refugees sent without their parents to Britain that happened from 1938 - 1939 prior to World War II. Although the characters are fictitious, the play is based on the real mass flight and stories of those children.

The performance was outstanding. The play itself was very touching and emotionally moving and raised awareness of many of the issues that those refugees encountered. The dialogue was memorable and thought-provoking. One line in particular stuck with me:

"Never let people who hate you tell you what you are."

This sentiment resonates with me on a personal level, since so much of my work is about shaping identity and confronting stereotypes and taboos. I strive to confront stereotypes and assumptions in much of my work, and this quote sort of sums up why, thus I wanted to draw attention to it.

Anyway, if you get a chance to see the play I'd highly recommend doing so, but please be aware that it is emotionally-charged and includes strong subject matter. And, if you do make it, I hope you enjoy the Artfully Alton Exhibit in the lobby. Christine Ilewski organized a powerful show of paintings & artworks by several local artists, including a stirring installation by Lillian Bates and three of my Forgotten Series works from my Relics & Reliquaries show at The Green Center.

Artfully Alton Exhibit
in conjunction with Kindertransport
Alton Little Theater
2450 N. Henry
Alton, IL
Jan. 2011

Website Updated

2011-01-13T14:33:00.004-06:00

A big, hearty thank you to my husband Chuck for helping me to update my website!

http://jenniferweigelart.com/

We made a lot of changes and posted several newer pieces, especially among my identity-based artworks. Some of my Self Awareness and Gender Identity works were split out to create a new subsection entitled Taboo. This expanded subsection includes most of my menstruation, political, religious and otherwise more provocative art, although some can still be found in Gender Identity.

http://jenniferweigelart.com/Awareness/index.php

I am hoping to update my Plein Air works to reflect some of the 2010 events that I participated in later on. The current WCA Guest Artist Show at Jeane Vogel Studios has been added; since the show was extended, you can still check it out in person, so please feel free to drop by and do so if you haven't already done so.

http://jenniferweigelart.com/Environment/PleinAir/JeaneVogelShow.html

Making Time for Making Art

2011-01-12T14:44:00.006-06:00

My husband and I have been working to update my website this week. In doing so, I was surprised to discover that I hadn't made a lot of totally new art this year until I thought more about what I have been doing. 2010 marked the big kickoff for both Life Blood Exhibit and the debut of the Art Is Everywhere sign project. I also participated in a number of shows and art events and have traveled more for my art than in awhile. So, instead of making art, it seems that I've spent more time managing, organizing and showing existing art.

Artistically I've felt myself at a crossroads and so think that my productivity has slowed down somewhat. The art I've undertaken has also been pulling me to different extremes, focusing on more traditional things like drawing while simultaneously experimenting more with redefining what is and isn't art and blurring the distinctions between art and life. I've also reworked a lot of past pieces, incorporating them into installations and new works.

And I've spent more time reassessing my life itself, especially after some minor health concerns. What is important to me? How do I want to spend my time? What do I need to do to better myself as a person first and foremost? My life and art are very intertwined, for both good and bad, and so I am well aware that for my own well-being I need to make time to make art.

So, for all that I plan to stay active showing and already have several events lined up, I am going to focus on production more in 2011. I hope to continue to focus on honing my drawing skills, since that is the root of why I first became interested in art, while also experimenting and revisiting past works. I plan to continue to participate in the plein air events as I can do so, but not worry too much about producing a lot of pieces. Most of all, I'm not going to push too hard and plan to just let things flow, whether I'm working on something with the intent to show it or whether I'm working on something for its own sake.

About Art of the Week

2011-01-09T16:53:00.005-06:00

I created Art of the Week to make an attempt to include more photos of my work here upon noticing that my blog was very devoid of images for an art blog, as it focused more on writing about art discourse, myself and life observations. As you may have noticed, these posts run the gamut of what I do and don't always fall in with my more serious work. These pieces will likely never be included on my website, at least not in the format presented, since they are just quickly captured in the moment with my digital camera.

The purpose of Art of the Week has developed to connect on a less formal level than my website. Thus I have intentionally featured artworks that offer more a sampling of who I am as a person; many of these pieces are made for fun or as explorations and will never be shown, so this is an opportunity to see into my life more than in the formal art setting. It also provides a glimpse into process and into my other interests, like model horses, role playing games, drawing and more.

I have intended to post new pieces every week but some weeks I find myself focusing on the management aspects of my art career: entering shows, catching up with galleries, networking and so on. Other weeks I find myself working on long-term or large-scale projects that are not as well suited due to the time spent or that I want to remain more private until their formal release in the art world setting.

I don't post on a regular schedule because I see it as a freeform platform to document some of who I am and what I do. I hope that you have enjoyed perusing some of the random musings and creations I have generated and posted.

Art of the Week: Fairy Horses

2011-01-06T19:48:00.003-06:00

Here are a couple fairy horses I customized. I just wanted to relax after the holidays, so I decided to customize some Breyer Stablemates models. (I have collected model horses since I was eight years old and started remaking them in high school as a hobby.) The resulting nine fairy horses are currently posted on eBay here.

Generosity

2011-01-05T17:55:00.002-06:00

Most artists as a whole tend to be pretty generous. (Obviously not every individual artist is and some people are strictly in it for themselves or to profit, but overall most artists are quite giving.) Unfortunately, that generosity can also mean that we can be taken for granted or taken advantage of, especially when it comes to soliciting donations or charging money to enter shows. Here, though, I want to point out many ways in which artists are very generous, to say thank you to the art community as a whole for its continued support of one another.

We give of our time and materials to do demos, work with children, seniors & others, do workshops and more, many of which are volunteer activities or pay such a meager sum as to barely offset materials. We give of our artwork to fundraiser events, many of which require a 50-100% donation. We offer advice, criticism & expertise to others, informing one another of exhibition & potential sales opportunities and helping one another in the creative process. We band together in collaborative networks and groups to foster camaraderie. We even offer up materials and items we no longer need to other artists who can use them, sometimes for free. (I have myself acquired display fixtures, materials and easels and have given many materials away over the course of time.)

So thank you to everyone for your generosity. It is this continuing support that strengthens the art community as a whole by welcoming and enabling those who may otherwise not show their work. We are truly all in this together.

Insomnia

2010-12-28T04:47:00.002-06:00

I know a lot of artists who struggle on and on with insomnia, myself included (as is evidenced by the fact that I am writing this blog post at 4 AM when I should be sleeping). Yet many don't talk about it and some even see it as a character flaw, sign of weakness or simply a private matter. Thus, I am going to offer some of my experiences here, so that others can relate.

I tend to get insomnia due to three main reasons: stress, unfinished work, and changes in my overall health. Stress and worry can keep me up when I am deeply concerned about something, even if I can't do anything about it right then. If I leave a project in the middle of it, especially if the creative juices are still flowing and it wasn't a long-term piece spanning several days or longer, I almost always have a hard time sleeping. Health can also be a factor, especially whenever I'm experiencing hormonal changes (like when I'm menstruating) or when I am sick or my allergies are acting up due to difficulty breathing from sinus congestion.

I have some means of combating insomnia. If I'm stressed or worried, it can help to write my concerns out by making a to do list for later so I can clear my mind and not worry that I may forget to act upon whatever woke me in the first place. If it's my health, a hot bath will sometimes do the trick, although sometimes I still wake up again later. The hardest to get back to sleep from is when I'm up because my mind is still occupied with an unfinished project, usually because I'm totally jazzed about it. However, I often find that when my creativity is the cause, the ill effects of having insomnia are greatly lessened and I can function on less sleep unless the problem is ongoing. When all else fails, I have some sleep aid pills, but I only fall back on those very rarely and will not take more than one in a two-week period for fear of becoming reliant upon them.

When I do get insomnia, I rarely ever get the kind that makes me unable to get to sleep as I tend to fall asleep easily without much hesitation. However, I can have difficulties staying asleep and sometimes cannot do so for more than two or three hours before I awaken again with my mind reeling. Anyways, tonight I'm up because of my sinuses. Having taken a hot, steamy bath that didn't help enough on its own, I'm writing this post while I wait for the sinus headache medicine to kick in.

Art of the Week: Summer Camp Intro to Weaving

2010-12-16T15:07:00.002-06:00

Here is another fiber work I've created called Summer Camp Intro to Weaving. This piece belongs to the same series as Weaving 101 and incorporates finger knitting.

Snow Day; This Week

2010-12-12T10:36:00.003-06:00

I'm sorry to say that the holiday boutique scheduled for today at Attitudes was canceled due to the inclimate weather. But please feel free to see me and my work later in the week. This marks the last week of Little Things Mean a Lot at the St. Charles County Arts Council. And there will be an artist's reception for my WCA Guest Artist Show at Jeane Vogel Studios in Crestwood Mall on Wednesday.

Little Things Mean a Lot
end of the year holiday bazaar
St. Charles County Arts Council
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2010
I will be sitting at the gallery on Tuesday from 11 - 3 PM, so please feel free to drop by, visit and see the show.

St. Louis Women's Caucus for Art Guest Artist Show
Jeane Vogel Studios
Crestwood Court ArtSpace
19 Crestwood Court
Crestwood Plaza
Crestwood, MO
Enter the mall at Fletcher's Kitchen & Tap.
Dec. 2010
Reception with the Artist: Wednesday, Dec. 15, 6 - 8 PM
Please come and check out this show of my plein air paintings. Many shown and unshown pieces are included, ranging in size from 5" x 7" to 11" x 14".

Art of the Week: Sugar Skull Erasers

2010-12-09T08:16:00.004-06:00

After looking at some amazing art dolls online, I wanted to play with polymer clay again. They now make eraser clay, so I decided to make some sugar skull erasers using a Wilton skull candy mold. Because they are erasers, these are not painted - all details and linework are sculpted in.

This Week

2010-12-06T20:07:00.003-06:00

I am participating in several events coming up this week and next. Please check them out and do some holiday shopping while supporting local artists.

Little Things Mean a Lot
end of the year holiday bazaar
St. Charles County Arts Council
7443 Village Center Dr.
O' Fallon, MO
Nov. - Dec. 2010
Holiday Party: Thursday, December 9, 6 PM
I have several assemblages, scarves, blue jean purses and necklaces in this holiday bazaar, which features works priced $50 and under by several local artists. The holiday party includes a raffle to win a 6 foot tall white Christmas tree with lights and one-of-a-kind ornaments made by the artists in the show. For the tree: I made the garland, which is 25 feet of plush finger-knitted yarn in shades of purple, and an ornament called Santa Baby. Raffle proceeds benefit the St. Charles County Arts Council Lillian Yahn Gallery.

Holiday Boutique
Attitudes
4100 Manchester
St. Louis, MO
Sunday, Dec. 12, 2010, 2 - 6 PM
I will have jewelry on display at this holiday boutique that features paintings, Christmas decor and jewelry made by several local artists. And Santa will be there for pet portraits too. "Avoid the Mall. Come have some Cocktails and check everyone off your list!" One day only!!!

Upcoming next week:
St. Louis Women's Caucus for Art Guest Artist Show
Jeane Vogel Studios
Crestwood Court ArtSpace
19 Crestwood Court
Crestwood Plaza
Crestwood, MO
Enter the mall at Fletcher's Kitchen & Tap.
Dec. 2010
Reception with the Artist: Wednesday, Dec. 15, 6 - 8 PM
Please come and check out this show of my plein air paintings. Many shown and unshown pieces are included, ranging in size from 5" x 7" to 11" x 14".

Art of the Week: Summer Camp Weaving 101

2010-11-28T09:40:00.003-06:00

Here is the end result of the piece I was working on earlier incorporating the potholder loom weavings, entitled Summer Camp Weaving 101. The child's stool was given to me by my good friend Cindy Royal.