tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1441041500730838582024-03-18T21:41:54.672-07:00Illustration MattersIllustrator Joan CharlesJoan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-72267360651425429122017-10-10T07:20:00.002-07:002017-10-10T09:46:17.138-07:00Día de los Muertos Exhibit at Cactus Gallery<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlME105cAaC7w7fiQza6HDOVMSWf9sMy18ZP2xsTlvohbYf-tlhy937wsJf-Yq3iM4EWzz8YtO7BUiua76GeblIXjg58HU_sjKytP_oUVFlGxxJSZdCbDoGk_aLOVb4t4vJYirOKmQqw/s1600/EVITE-DiaDeLosMuertos2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlME105cAaC7w7fiQza6HDOVMSWf9sMy18ZP2xsTlvohbYf-tlhy937wsJf-Yq3iM4EWzz8YtO7BUiua76GeblIXjg58HU_sjKytP_oUVFlGxxJSZdCbDoGk_aLOVb4t4vJYirOKmQqw/s400/EVITE-DiaDeLosMuertos2017.jpg" width="400" height="293" data-original-width="1364" data-original-height="999" /></a><br><br>I'll be part of the exciting "Day of the Dead" group exhibit opening this Saturday, October 14, at Cactus Gallery. There will be food, libations, a traditional altar, and lots of wonderful art celebrating this unique Mexican holiday. Hope to see you there!Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-27894427830300257042017-08-01T17:47:00.002-07:002017-08-01T17:51:23.028-07:00Voyage of the Firefly<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQqKiUL4gb7f4yj1mH2YYE0vTrNJ84z7Hf8C_n_yfNyi6kwJgde3rO30fGSWvYgPDMcOqiVvN3Vqo66eF9V18SUdjvzQpLFQd9ulpHcr1X4sw52UeC0ETw0EKd-NcxS2qQs_KT6U85h4/s1600/firefly.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQqKiUL4gb7f4yj1mH2YYE0vTrNJ84z7Hf8C_n_yfNyi6kwJgde3rO30fGSWvYgPDMcOqiVvN3Vqo66eF9V18SUdjvzQpLFQd9ulpHcr1X4sw52UeC0ETw0EKd-NcxS2qQs_KT6U85h4/s400/firefly.png" width="320" height="400" data-original-width="720" data-original-height="900" /></a><br><br>Like me, you may dream of sailing away some summer night, guided on your voyage by the magical light of fireflies. This is my entry for our last virtual art show of the summer. Be sure to visit #818CreatesSummer on Instagram to view the works of August from me, Tanya, Suzie, Diane and Kat, my talented artist friends.Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-24075582344610970492017-07-01T16:34:00.001-07:002017-07-01T16:47:58.798-07:004th of July - #818Creates Summer Art Exhibit<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInJeyxJVcK2sWifTn06VipQFL_h-m2hI6DYM6kSrYH_RnNpp7HqcJZREE8wjTj2QSRfdyp5tQzqfMMBP5GPUNJpoviWWmslqRan1F0pMyHJKalcXp99YbEqPN9FJqQXJ-n9VaOXPCuvw/s1600/july.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInJeyxJVcK2sWifTn06VipQFL_h-m2hI6DYM6kSrYH_RnNpp7HqcJZREE8wjTj2QSRfdyp5tQzqfMMBP5GPUNJpoviWWmslqRan1F0pMyHJKalcXp99YbEqPN9FJqQXJ-n9VaOXPCuvw/s400/july.png" width="294" height="400" data-original-width="1177" data-original-height="1600" /></a><br><br>It's time for the second "opening" of our #818CreatesSummer exhibit. Join us on Instagram at #818CreatesSummer to view new summer-inspired works by me, Suzy Engelman Block, Diane Browning, Tanya Maiboroda, and Kat McD. Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-56813366578725733562017-06-16T16:39:00.002-07:002017-06-16T16:39:33.517-07:00Want to Broaden Your Reading Horizons? Check Out the New Monthly Book Review Feature at Bird Meets Worm!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxEC8TFDSQHjcmqknSwD474TyScfmbsvNcDoFVyx1_RKpHRK7NW6aTTlL1-3D3xIV-YXNVID2du_EZORDpA5KwE1gYqb_a9c3P2wEM24wkcFbWk9cNh6zAVtwyT5EI6UbRasLh9o4Th0/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxEC8TFDSQHjcmqknSwD474TyScfmbsvNcDoFVyx1_RKpHRK7NW6aTTlL1-3D3xIV-YXNVID2du_EZORDpA5KwE1gYqb_a9c3P2wEM24wkcFbWk9cNh6zAVtwyT5EI6UbRasLh9o4Th0/s400/blog.jpg" width="243" height="400" data-original-width="460" data-original-height="756" /></a><br><br>I'm so pleased to be a part of the new monthly children’s book review feature on illustrator Jane Smith's <a href="http://birdmeetsworm.blogspot.com/">Bird Meets Worm Blog</a>. Each month a rotating roster of illustrators, authors, and educators will review a book of their choice - each with a focus on diverse themes. <br><br>This month's featured book is <i>The Case for Loving</i>, a sensitive non-fiction picture book by husband-and-wife team Selina Alko and Sean Qualls, that tells the story of the Loving family and their fight for interracial marriage.<br><br><a href="http://birdmeetsworm.blogspot.com/">Click here to read Jane's insightful review</a>, and be sure to check back on the second Wednesday of each month for a new book review. Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-55031253282724838172017-06-01T17:13:00.000-07:002017-07-13T12:32:52.469-07:00Welcome Summer - #818Creates Exhibit<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeCO4acQVUG-IS3FlXoCM7b7UtsTD95zdDh3ieIg_r36uGgcHNkoUtIgnexRWwQIzLwrUcUY9-LSco0Y1VP0PpNfMUzXeHt4HGOErcaXLVwj155WJi-l7zwyVENQjD78j1NLBKA8ssoo/s1600/summer.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeCO4acQVUG-IS3FlXoCM7b7UtsTD95zdDh3ieIg_r36uGgcHNkoUtIgnexRWwQIzLwrUcUY9-LSco0Y1VP0PpNfMUzXeHt4HGOErcaXLVwj155WJi-l7zwyVENQjD78j1NLBKA8ssoo/s400/summer.jpg" width="400" height="279" data-original-width="1340" data-original-height="934" /></a><br><br>Our virtual exhibit is live! Browse the gallery at #818CreatesSummer on Instagram.<br><br>
For a better view (I'm still learning the ropes on Instagram) please visit my Etsy shop at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/528872260/girl-in-a-red-canoe-greeting-card?ref=shop_home_active_1">https://www.etsy.com/listing/528872260/girl-in-a-red-canoe-greeting-card?ref=shop_home_active_1</a>Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-32199809451939717132017-05-31T17:28:00.001-07:002017-05-31T17:30:04.738-07:00818 Creates Virtual Art Exhibit - Thursday, June 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bTwKf2z_t2zxaOr6mrtBlPAtrbdeHhVZDL6krYO-QyKnGCFZgkcpRv-93xr0XvElCNUWXBwFZXHp-O-r8LtvjjSP4pBbpn59ERC2NF0O7oObIra1iikWWPul6ePgqnQwGGOCvaXh3cc/s1600/818-summer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bTwKf2z_t2zxaOr6mrtBlPAtrbdeHhVZDL6krYO-QyKnGCFZgkcpRv-93xr0XvElCNUWXBwFZXHp-O-r8LtvjjSP4pBbpn59ERC2NF0O7oObIra1iikWWPul6ePgqnQwGGOCvaXh3cc/s320/818-summer.jpg" width="261" height="320" data-original-width="288" data-original-height="353" /></a></div>Hope you'll pop over to Instagram tomorrow (Thursday, June 1 at 5pm) to check out the 818 Creates Virtual Art Exhibit. This fun idea was dreamed up by my illustrator pal Kat McD, who decided we all needed a push to get our work onto Instagram! <br><br>
This is the first of three shows that will explore "Summer" as a theme. We'll post fresh work on June 1st, July 1st and then again on August 1st. Participating artists include Suzy Engelman Block, Diane Browning, Tanya Maiboroda, Kat McD and yours truly!
<br><br>Be sure to join us Thursday, June 1 at 5pm PST at Instagram #818CreatesSummer. Virtual wine and cheese will be served. Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-71218255763215471932016-12-14T09:57:00.000-08:002016-12-14T09:57:39.680-08:00Alice in Wonderland Prints<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-aYPK5c7JdwHuuqITiqyhMLecdLgXqNwpzkK9Fh0b5szYCyMDu6J-3PHAihLGOPYAyC0e5Yvb36Vgm_d76G7tLn4GbHwNiwjHH13KXFhnwWLHzyLrkLmyfZtJ39z3xa7uhtpmeTObOg/s1600/joan-charles-prints.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-aYPK5c7JdwHuuqITiqyhMLecdLgXqNwpzkK9Fh0b5szYCyMDu6J-3PHAihLGOPYAyC0e5Yvb36Vgm_d76G7tLn4GbHwNiwjHH13KXFhnwWLHzyLrkLmyfZtJ39z3xa7uhtpmeTObOg/s400/joan-charles-prints.png" width="400" height="224" /></a><br><br>Two of my prints, matted and framed and ready to deliver to a collector!Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-82815699801975584492016-06-25T09:42:00.001-07:002016-06-25T09:44:07.642-07:00Afternoon Tea<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXoRFI1rMc221gzy0Rf0hg81m-nKK-itFnN1C34K5-xz9nG3sDAyDWrCnh_sMUTsQrPcLOoSDdaUBfPNmcdPqUn5ovhVb1kts0sop7oliPLmmf6vhetxH41wQEPJGoOh7cM2PYGyJF0k/s1600/teatime.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXoRFI1rMc221gzy0Rf0hg81m-nKK-itFnN1C34K5-xz9nG3sDAyDWrCnh_sMUTsQrPcLOoSDdaUBfPNmcdPqUn5ovhVb1kts0sop7oliPLmmf6vhetxH41wQEPJGoOh7cM2PYGyJF0k/s640/teatime.png" /></a><br><br>What could be better than a delicious cup of tea and a friend you can share your secrets with!Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-51259955993578158162016-04-22T11:36:00.000-07:002016-04-22T13:03:20.549-07:00Recharging Your Creative Batteries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKM93uNYkf88UGxPzku-notoIxKVIIWngruMdF9FE4KOe95Ut7UHGG6q1i9yEX6OUIx11Svq1-L5OrdcmAaCWSvQLtzWP5h7fdRqVuHiG_vM1Axftp_qD00t6n4XefG5RgiHiM1DUDDjk/s1600/serenity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKM93uNYkf88UGxPzku-notoIxKVIIWngruMdF9FE4KOe95Ut7UHGG6q1i9yEX6OUIx11Svq1-L5OrdcmAaCWSvQLtzWP5h7fdRqVuHiG_vM1Axftp_qD00t6n4XefG5RgiHiM1DUDDjk/s200/serenity.jpg" /></a></div>The other day I did something so rare that it was – sad to say - actually noteworthy. I took a break from work and went out to lunch with a friend on a weekday afternoon. <br><br>
During lunch my friend Tanya, who is also a freelance designer and illustrator, was lamenting her lack of down time. “You know how it is,” she said, “if you’re not working on a project you’re thinking about your next project, or where you’re going to get your next project, or marketing on social media, or prepping a mailing to art directors, or meeting with clients, or doing your accounting, or any one of the myriad tasks that you, as the master of your own artistic ship, must complete daily.”<br><br>
Whew!<br><br>
I understood completely – Tanya could have been talking about me. Don’t get me wrong – I love being a freelancer – but it isn’t always an easy life. There is no guaranteed income – and no income at all unless you hustle. You can get so caught up in the circus act of your life – juggling various jobs and deadlines and marketing – that you forget the most basic thing.<br><br>
You forget to live. <br><br>
Why do we do this to ourselves? Why do we think that we can go and go and keep on going without a break and still be effective? We don’t expect our cars to run without fuel, or our bodies to work without food, or the lights to turn on if we don’t pay the electric bill. Yet we expect to be able to access our creativity at will – to call on it any time of the day or night – when we’ve done nothing to replenish it.<br><br>
Sometimes we truly do need to step away from it all and take the time to gather inspiration and strength. Even if it feels counter-productive, we must make the effort to connect with friends, to take a walk, to go to a gallery, museum, a concert – or even just stare at the wall – so we can fill up our imaginations with new experiences, new sensations, new ideas that will replenish our creative wells.<br><br>
I can hear you now – “But I don’t have time – I have deadlines!” I know, I know. But just try it. Even if you’re skeptical – even if you resist with all your might – just try it. I think you’ll be surprised to find that you’ll function more effectively, your ideas will be fresher, and you'll look at your work once again as a source of joy instead of a burden that you must endure if you’re going to survive.<br><br>
A balanced life is a full life - and one worth living!
Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-28258218764905841162016-01-22T09:34:00.001-08:002016-04-07T05:21:26.741-07:00If You Don't Send It They Won't Publish: Submission Advice from the Sub It Club<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLVM7Hi6o3-fbcL-UwwJhKlRbv2EAHjzCsx0Ned7BiqsyWCySaIpm0iAs5Qe4YKLVc7qJEIMFkcJLyd8ND1x8V3Dc1GnOSesTQs0bm2cblGW1slQaw5meNn3_aA8oidFN7QqWzOQWsdI/s1600/sub.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLVM7Hi6o3-fbcL-UwwJhKlRbv2EAHjzCsx0Ned7BiqsyWCySaIpm0iAs5Qe4YKLVc7qJEIMFkcJLyd8ND1x8V3Dc1GnOSesTQs0bm2cblGW1slQaw5meNn3_aA8oidFN7QqWzOQWsdI/s400/sub.jpg" /></a><br><br>There's a wonderful website for authors and illustrators called <a href="https://subitclub.wordpress.com/">the Sub It Club</a>. In its pages you'll find a compendium of practical advice about the (often overwhelming) submission and (frankly terrifying) querying process. The site is loaded with scads of articles about agents, editors, query letters, pitching, social media, and even ways to cope with rejection.<br><br>
The Sub It Club is curated by Heather Ayris Burnell, Dana Carey, Lisha Cauthen, and Amy Dixon. Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-70085806528060769152016-01-02T19:40:00.000-08:002016-01-02T19:40:46.427-08:00Everything Old is New Again: My Resolution for 2016<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggEw_b_JmnjqibVoHveArKY6ZHpyFdgBPB9q7S-i7rdAsjuiggABvbv50BcTJ-sRfS6vbGtiEnoMirXZusc8YsJapqyj7NSL5Wnb3BI9LjAf5UGJB43tFSbtT9HuwG5ldQBGIzRjw-36Y/s1600/art_supplies.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggEw_b_JmnjqibVoHveArKY6ZHpyFdgBPB9q7S-i7rdAsjuiggABvbv50BcTJ-sRfS6vbGtiEnoMirXZusc8YsJapqyj7NSL5Wnb3BI9LjAf5UGJB43tFSbtT9HuwG5ldQBGIzRjw-36Y/s400/art_supplies.jpg" /></a><br><br>My secret is out: for years I've had two large plastic bags stuffed with paper, canvases, and art supplies stashed behind my couch. I kept all this stuff because I had a giant case of the "Somedays"; someday I'll use that watercolor paper; someday I'll need that foam core; someday I'm going to experiment with that sanded paper. <br><br>
Well, guess what. Someday is here. <br><br>
I spent two hours on New Year's eve (I even got a jump start on my resolution!) sorting through the papers and supplies and putting them into some sort of order. And no - I didn't just put everything back behind the couch - even if it all was so nicely sorted and neatly packed up.<br><br>
Instead, I left the paper out in plain sight. It's right where I can quickly get my hands on it - so I can't use the "out of sight, out of mind" excuse. I'm going to use all of this "free" paper and all these supplies to experiment. Every day I'm going to make something new - even if it's just a quick doodle or a sketch. This year I want to stretch and grow as an artist. I'm going to play like I haven't played in years. I plan on having some serious fun. I'm going to draw and paint and paste and tear up paper and generally make a mess - I'll try anything!<br><br>
I'm telling you this so you can hold me accountable. I'll post my daubs and my masterpieces throughout the year so I can measure my progress. Part of the point of this experiment is to feel comfortable sharing my failures as well as my successes.<br><br>
Let me know if you've made any resolutions this year regarding your art. And if you need any paper - I have plenty!
Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-56160448792147657542015-11-30T09:31:00.000-08:002016-03-31T16:24:18.280-07:00The Perfect Christmas Tree<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoC9NZSU6rGo9T2vRur1J2fndmKtnvGFYxltUhl6b8mMiZczpLaCEqN3Je4HH9gFFqo6fPWEedwOL89Zxf1uhV1F2kB8OZnYUCTdyRtMQ6xqVLsnk7agFDnyiToo8jfZcAhQ1UTfyMOE/s1600/christmas-tree3b.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoC9NZSU6rGo9T2vRur1J2fndmKtnvGFYxltUhl6b8mMiZczpLaCEqN3Je4HH9gFFqo6fPWEedwOL89Zxf1uhV1F2kB8OZnYUCTdyRtMQ6xqVLsnk7agFDnyiToo8jfZcAhQ1UTfyMOE/s400/christmas-tree3b.jpg" /></a><br><br>When I was growing up the Christmas tree wasn't just a decoration sitting in the corner; it was the main event. While my sisters and I slept on Christmas Eve, Santa decorated the tree with cherished ornaments, iced sugar cookies, candy canes, ribbon candy, and popcorn balls in colorful cellophane wrappers. We saw the tree for the first time when we woke on Christmas morning and it was often difficult to decide where to look first: at the shimmering tree or at the gifts clustered beneath it's spreading branches. Once we had opened all the presents and the excitement was over for another year, the perfect tree continued to offer little gifts of sweets and treats during the entire twelve days of Christmas. Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-89432653785079800892015-11-12T17:28:00.001-08:002015-11-20T10:51:36.583-08:00Alice Meets the Cheshire Cat<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzrD1yzMiKjV70EplHLGQA9BGg111uqXL4HM3J7F44eS8914Ye4fq3qifqF7w1C1dn-pWmqguqEPj2uE4aKUPlzCafPAGGNkhVplPANdLiu7AlC3M8EFFdx8cG4ckQud7L4k_O7ibMdx0/s1600/alice_jt.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzrD1yzMiKjV70EplHLGQA9BGg111uqXL4HM3J7F44eS8914Ye4fq3qifqF7w1C1dn-pWmqguqEPj2uE4aKUPlzCafPAGGNkhVplPANdLiu7AlC3M8EFFdx8cG4ckQud7L4k_O7ibMdx0/s400/alice_jt.jpg" /></a><br><br>Our recent "Alice" exhibit at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/centurybookshop">Century Books</a> is like a lovely gift that keeps on giving. On the opening night of the exhibit my friend (and writer extraordinaire) <a href="http://www.josephtaylorwonders.com/">Joe Taylor</a> bought my little graphite drawing, "Alice Meets the Cheshire Cat". He found the perfect place to hang it in his home - on a wall with a framed Peanuts comic strip signed by Charles Schulz himself! I couldn't be more thrilled to be in such august company. Thank you, Joe!Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-76607064645666140032015-11-01T14:20:00.001-08:002015-11-01T14:25:51.676-08:00Alice's Dream<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL02HNKjQNJAgG3hZ1wtD8jvnM9CPW0GEC7_BdbiTclcRv17Bo9whNIfc9I_xurxKp_MpVfBReL3xk3yPiH2kgc1oG3OFaEUToCuB8YkNNHqKfN3d_i8xOJGNts08mmidrjyddtpxb3L8/s1600/sophia.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL02HNKjQNJAgG3hZ1wtD8jvnM9CPW0GEC7_BdbiTclcRv17Bo9whNIfc9I_xurxKp_MpVfBReL3xk3yPiH2kgc1oG3OFaEUToCuB8YkNNHqKfN3d_i8xOJGNts08mmidrjyddtpxb3L8/s400/sophia.jpg" /></a><br><br>Our Alice exhibit is just a memory now - all the pictures we sold have found new homes and new images have taken their place in the Upstairs Gallery at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/centurybookshop">Century Books</a>. I'm so pleased that my piece, "Alice's Dream", will be hanging in the home of my friends Sophia Bicos and Steven Corvelo. Thank you, Sophia and Steven - and thanks again to all who came out to the show! Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-56796004085776166412015-10-15T10:25:00.002-07:002015-10-15T10:35:34.749-07:00"All Manner of Madness" - Meet the Artists Night at Century Books<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgArSN3tqYaXYAxiF5WDLwqmcYeQZFrWx_J7aCdR6bEwglQI03PMfQlTu7JPyz1I6-IVxxLOwqkhuJcKlJVNiB7YleJetv2sV2u5iEFJNs-VNDxo-5W7bfCM7RdZf0VuNB8KnMrzD3pV2s/s1600/alice_poster_meet.gif" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgArSN3tqYaXYAxiF5WDLwqmcYeQZFrWx_J7aCdR6bEwglQI03PMfQlTu7JPyz1I6-IVxxLOwqkhuJcKlJVNiB7YleJetv2sV2u5iEFJNs-VNDxo-5W7bfCM7RdZf0VuNB8KnMrzD3pV2s/s400/alice_poster_meet.gif" /></a><br><br>We'll be back at Century Books this Saturday, October 17, from 8 - 11 pm. Last week's opening was a smashing success - we had a huge crush of people on one of the hottest nights of the year! This week should be a little less crowded and a lot cooler, so if you weren't able to make it last week or you want to stop by to chat with the artists about your favorite pieces, we'll be there with food, drink, and the fabulous music of Krys Mach.<br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqHFQz_pH9d5JUG_nYrzI-L7BlkzC7vSdC8E1nox2uWMmvy5zFmuD3-lLuYuhOlpfKuMLKBf35e605_xKEEYxeDauecb4J47q_iNyaI1K9melNwL_DYFJLZP-sULpgZFCrttAhtlhyb6w/s1600/alice_opening.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqHFQz_pH9d5JUG_nYrzI-L7BlkzC7vSdC8E1nox2uWMmvy5zFmuD3-lLuYuhOlpfKuMLKBf35e605_xKEEYxeDauecb4J47q_iNyaI1K9melNwL_DYFJLZP-sULpgZFCrttAhtlhyb6w/s400/alice_opening.jpg" /></a><i><br>The opening reception for "All Manner of Madness: Celebrating 150 Years of Alice in Wonderland" drew a big crowd.</i>Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-41935954356938397192015-10-04T12:15:00.000-07:002015-10-04T12:31:42.141-07:00All Manner of Madness: Celebrating Alice in Wonderland<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_nfnX0Krg-AmCKnzYJEADoyekEQIaeN6haqkeZPHQKvtnsPKzu-_uPGsHrPKKBxDc0RUWtVlPDf2ZHdN_UGzJ5reprWhpju_tKvBb1xdBStTuR4jow04i-fZ4QPG39eVfSVNveaFp7c/s1600/alice_poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_nfnX0Krg-AmCKnzYJEADoyekEQIaeN6haqkeZPHQKvtnsPKzu-_uPGsHrPKKBxDc0RUWtVlPDf2ZHdN_UGzJ5reprWhpju_tKvBb1xdBStTuR4jow04i-fZ4QPG39eVfSVNveaFp7c/s400/alice_poster.jpg" /></a><br><br><i></i>I'm so happy to be taking part in this group exhibit at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/centurybookshop">Century Books</a> in Pasadena. Hard to believe that it's been 150 years since Lewis Carroll published <i>Alice in Wonderland</i>. His sublime nonsense has inspired countless movies, art, books, comics, and so much more. Now it's our time to be inspired by "shoes and ships - and sealing wax - and cabbages and kings”. Hope you'll join me and my fellow illustrators Steven Corvelo, Kent Culotta, and Tanya Maiboroda as we share our own take on this timeless classic on Saturday, October 10th at 8:00 p.m. If you're not able to make it to the opening, the exhibit will run from Saturday, October 10th through Friday, October 23rd at Century Books, 1039 East Green Streetin Pasadena. Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-84549632350456379522015-07-15T13:04:00.000-07:002015-07-15T13:04:14.879-07:00Montana Avenue Art Walk - July 16, 2015<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVeF9rt3JqHPi0OZXw4K93wnO-7hvG7sQK1T1nVSWHs4J1FaTA-aPCIc1GuDqm4z5MyllUBo_ctjGsfWb1LXEY8Lg6fOWrflfojrS922tpoAm0VYpaoi0pEf5eflw-4CZAS0eOHkflt4/s1600/night_print.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVeF9rt3JqHPi0OZXw4K93wnO-7hvG7sQK1T1nVSWHs4J1FaTA-aPCIc1GuDqm4z5MyllUBo_ctjGsfWb1LXEY8Lg6fOWrflfojrS922tpoAm0VYpaoi0pEf5eflw-4CZAS0eOHkflt4/s400/night_print.jpg" /></a><br><br>I'm so thrilled to be taking part in the annual Montana Avenue Art Walk again this year! As always, there will be music, food, fun, and artists galore! Please stop by 1308 Montana Avenue from 5 to 9 pm. Thanks to Evelyn Lauchenauer and all the lovely people at Berkshire Hathaway for inviting me. Hope to see you there!Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-50053803863643247652015-07-12T17:50:00.000-07:002015-07-12T17:51:12.941-07:00Illustration Friday - Garden<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74KkPaET1byJsRxDds5Q2AbjUif9KqZ7GSD8kci8B97eJKo467lUWr4nczNHSukFvKcl1xcCDH-an-02SCKiuqCZk-sz_RFEBKTFbUIoQgczYyAqo7ojtbTXzHBIazAfmBwOMM2hZBrI/s1600/secret_garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74KkPaET1byJsRxDds5Q2AbjUif9KqZ7GSD8kci8B97eJKo467lUWr4nczNHSukFvKcl1xcCDH-an-02SCKiuqCZk-sz_RFEBKTFbUIoQgczYyAqo7ojtbTXzHBIazAfmBwOMM2hZBrI/s400/secret_garden.jpg" /></a>Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-68707016655188620442015-05-02T12:41:00.000-07:002015-05-04T11:11:25.669-07:00Meet the Artists - Tonight at Century Books<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBjwWKHzraTVe83gDg9WqLxJYd5aDq2x-QXlSpQxcfBUvrlQc79afrp3iMmGYaEJCtp-aTVxKwXCVh1Iyn-RMRZA2lt_uxPbabyeAkoSxaswabi56n7Cd3EeXZv1O01fJnohrGr2eb3Fc/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBjwWKHzraTVe83gDg9WqLxJYd5aDq2x-QXlSpQxcfBUvrlQc79afrp3iMmGYaEJCtp-aTVxKwXCVh1Iyn-RMRZA2lt_uxPbabyeAkoSxaswabi56n7Cd3EeXZv1O01fJnohrGr2eb3Fc/s400/Slide1.JPG" /></a><br><br>If you weren't able to come to last week's opening, I hope you'll stop by Century Books tonight to meet me, Steve Marosvolgyi and Bruce Hedges. The event starts at 8 pm and there will be wine, food and live jazz with Krys Mach. Hope to see you there tonight, May 2 any time after 8pm. Century Books, 1039 East Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91106.Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-41307185366298686632015-04-24T07:40:00.000-07:002015-04-24T07:40:04.009-07:00Group Exhibit at Century Books in Pasadena<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIpAXar_hKSlwj29eyjBTRDXxO3HDBU6OiJEQb4zstIAUJhQ7Odke4i0kccHEs6wYSJbC-qA7Tfi6O2Kp8jF54H0ifr3CouBsA0ag4K0W7my6Ru1PGMDdvh26w0EuDNAkozsLwpeC6fc/s1600/exhibit.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIpAXar_hKSlwj29eyjBTRDXxO3HDBU6OiJEQb4zstIAUJhQ7Odke4i0kccHEs6wYSJbC-qA7Tfi6O2Kp8jF54H0ifr3CouBsA0ag4K0W7my6Ru1PGMDdvh26w0EuDNAkozsLwpeC6fc/s400/exhibit.jpg" /></a><br><br>I'll be taking part in a group exhibit on Saturday, April 25 at 8:00 p.m. at Century Books in Pasadena.I hope you'll be able to come to the opening; if not, please be sure to visit Century Books next time you're in the area. This used bookstore, owned by Judith and Steve, is housed in a lovely old building on Green Street. In addition to books, the store features art exhibits in their upstairs gallery, live classical and jazz concerts, and other cultural events. 1039 East Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91106. Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-2578279990546103682014-12-09T15:02:00.001-08:002014-12-09T15:04:34.663-08:00Winter's Eve<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdi60xuoB1m5tR_ykRzjxFvdxUiLRTmGtOVBJB-7YIZhGmpfRy1Zdh6qvKJI4-313umlCykuvQxkclfZHcwgVawxegWTcrgLgjcwM8hnR0fDI6i97n4FMA3CCDHLvJlviPnUhmya_Qq4/s1600/fox.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdi60xuoB1m5tR_ykRzjxFvdxUiLRTmGtOVBJB-7YIZhGmpfRy1Zdh6qvKJI4-313umlCykuvQxkclfZHcwgVawxegWTcrgLgjcwM8hnR0fDI6i97n4FMA3CCDHLvJlviPnUhmya_Qq4/s400/fox.jpg" /></a><br><br>Somewhere in the frozen north, a girl and her fox gallop through the snowy landscape. Only the soft pad of the fox's paws break the frosty silence.Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-14562431436106608482014-10-24T14:12:00.000-07:002015-11-20T10:55:23.422-08:00The 4" x 4" Sketch Challenge - Halloween Edition<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8cRElyXylPzM1lxc0KIzZrft6PsViPwPRcCOwY2BfTzavPUP00AnHTrhGODJp3qMM2qK5WON5CUxqF1ACO0j_cD6Y2X3BuMMkgf2pKWGvUmTJ2slIchvMKs1mLiI4qq_mzZTQ_WBIHM/s1600/dracula_challenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8cRElyXylPzM1lxc0KIzZrft6PsViPwPRcCOwY2BfTzavPUP00AnHTrhGODJp3qMM2qK5WON5CUxqF1ACO0j_cD6Y2X3BuMMkgf2pKWGvUmTJ2slIchvMKs1mLiI4qq_mzZTQ_WBIHM/s400/dracula_challenge.jpg" /></a><br><br>This is the first in my new series of tiny sketch challenges. I thought it only fitting that, given the season, the theme should be Halloween. The rules are simple: make a small piece of art (4" x 4") with a Halloween theme. Use color, black and white, paint, pencil, charcoal, photos, collage - whatever medium you choose. And you don't have to be an artist to take part - it's just fun to try to make a picture in such a small space, like writing a one-line short story or doing a gesture sketch in life drawing. If you decide to join the challenge, post your tiny masterpiece on your blog or website and send me a link in the comments section so I can share.<br><br>This challenge is also posted on Facebook, and I'm happy to say some of my friends took up the gauntlet with style.<br><br>The first entry is from Suzy Block. She combined the 4 x 4 sketch challenge with her Doodle-A-Day project to come up with this fearsome pirate and his sweet Mini Me. <a href="http://www.suzyengelmanblock.com/monkey-2-monkey-blog">Visit Suzy's Monkey 2 Monkey Blog</a> to view all of her Doodle-A-Day entries.<br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH05LHFbiYlf74nnVVrDdA6x8IwV93l7rgD6B-4gH7MDv-Zul0mdSLc9RQLuLqxAVi9ML0fbhXQsCDktQJTL7371ZIY_emBEqLGmtjgaS8DGjRjR0Uvz5eEYdEyBbENwvlCIzFIgU78MI/s1600/suzy.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH05LHFbiYlf74nnVVrDdA6x8IwV93l7rgD6B-4gH7MDv-Zul0mdSLc9RQLuLqxAVi9ML0fbhXQsCDktQJTL7371ZIY_emBEqLGmtjgaS8DGjRjR0Uvz5eEYdEyBbENwvlCIzFIgU78MI/s400/suzy.jpg" /></a><br><br>
<a href="http://www.katmcdart.com/">Illustrator Kat McD</a> has really gotten into the Halloween spirit by painting the Man in the Moon's face and using a couple of cleverly-placed clouds to suggest a ruffled collar and wisps of clown hair. I wonder if that's the Great Pumpkin he's watching over?<br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzv0JuLxnSD6Ap2b7dQneygyOUjAiI_inwzN-aMnFH_GDnoIY-ceneIObgvGxjhR9mwWlCMcMaTrOeVDF5lwloHCoxqMytXrhIVU1VlWIcwnnQWxhT1C1v9yPLjgg-Hyi6e-_SzgeZUkQ/s1600/kat.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzv0JuLxnSD6Ap2b7dQneygyOUjAiI_inwzN-aMnFH_GDnoIY-ceneIObgvGxjhR9mwWlCMcMaTrOeVDF5lwloHCoxqMytXrhIVU1VlWIcwnnQWxhT1C1v9yPLjgg-Hyi6e-_SzgeZUkQ/s400/kat.jpg" /></a><br><br>I really love Laurie Young's entry: a cute little trick-or-treater with vampire fangs and a bat headband. <br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6joa36lou5GdQp2na7lbCZllQdqieyobIDnq0tHThO3kJdILqtz7qlnsswqOtmsjPO8HRQxhytZMxprf6HI4ofeM76GRRLPUyHPQAMe9aTZTnkqa_Om6zp0ntgEHwOuzRUY8ZgyinY60/s1600/laurie.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6joa36lou5GdQp2na7lbCZllQdqieyobIDnq0tHThO3kJdILqtz7qlnsswqOtmsjPO8HRQxhytZMxprf6HI4ofeM76GRRLPUyHPQAMe9aTZTnkqa_Om6zp0ntgEHwOuzRUY8ZgyinY60/s400/laurie.jpg" /></a><br><br>Look at the way the moonlight silhouettes the witch's hat in this mysterious and moody entry from <a href="http://www.corvelo.com/">illustrator Steven Corvelo</a> Those hauting yellow eyes really pull you into the picture. <br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcPFdIBww16qYtfjENhgAeNHwp1mAyvZoeKSzEEVNL9ttZqw-4mCSc9wpzCwhB7hl1S9-Kg2qVAAknP-qy1tWrLAvRO6JnXMByPY7P5X6noq00HRrVAJQxntpzfU6y8LfdL7eowfCJM4/s1600/steven.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcPFdIBww16qYtfjENhgAeNHwp1mAyvZoeKSzEEVNL9ttZqw-4mCSc9wpzCwhB7hl1S9-Kg2qVAAknP-qy1tWrLAvRO6JnXMByPY7P5X6noq00HRrVAJQxntpzfU6y8LfdL7eowfCJM4/s400/steven.jpg" /></a><br><br>From the mind of <a href="http://sonothingink.com/index.php">Jake Gordon</a>: the Big Three of 1930s Universal Studios horror flicks: Frankenstein, the Mummy and the Wolfman.<br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSgGZl-dF6-vnySZXfL6J74GP6dioP9RhYQ4Wyk9eT6YO8fsWw92PTCuM5PZrJeno4jnWHmU9rDthZJBQqhFBX7FUjg5ji8gysClpYl7CQ5hO0Zbjg8r7Lz9Pgwy0eEjJ8lbVY6PP-ZDk/s1600/jake.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSgGZl-dF6-vnySZXfL6J74GP6dioP9RhYQ4Wyk9eT6YO8fsWw92PTCuM5PZrJeno4jnWHmU9rDthZJBQqhFBX7FUjg5ji8gysClpYl7CQ5hO0Zbjg8r7Lz9Pgwy0eEjJ8lbVY6PP-ZDk/s400/jake.jpg" /></a><br><br>Carah Smith's image evokes a sense of frantic danger, with the jagged wings of the bats mimicking the jagged teeth of the leering Jack O'Lantern. And is that a horde of zombies on the horizon? Yikes!<br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivL0q3odp6ljiN_-7f1YiPSqus14PPVE4TJMYRLI5P4ElTj0mMP6fMkYgyCrp6B1BT35g04KHS0o42_76QppCWkw0C8XzyvatJrmHPXQR62ihQ8BakyI_ywdY9GMLwFdaFjFBJpZDj9c/s1600/carah.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivL0q3odp6ljiN_-7f1YiPSqus14PPVE4TJMYRLI5P4ElTj0mMP6fMkYgyCrp6B1BT35g04KHS0o42_76QppCWkw0C8XzyvatJrmHPXQR62ihQ8BakyI_ywdY9GMLwFdaFjFBJpZDj9c/s400/carah.jpg" /></a> <br><br> <a href="http://www.marypeterson.com/">Mary Peterson</a> has a unique take on the usually gloomy Edgar Allen Poe. This sunny yellow background makes him look (almost) cheerful! <br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp9BaUietG2clCagbt4Q2U_HuEXp_KQLz3ZaD5LoByqzzcV0h15J82i9tFe4Ut2hMTzezyRvYvw1HJ0bz7UJeY1jmp6KFSqPEmB0JYfvHybtxIQjFnSS0n3F_qd_gIeZD8svRaR_ZtTOQ/s1600/mary.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp9BaUietG2clCagbt4Q2U_HuEXp_KQLz3ZaD5LoByqzzcV0h15J82i9tFe4Ut2hMTzezyRvYvw1HJ0bz7UJeY1jmp6KFSqPEmB0JYfvHybtxIQjFnSS0n3F_qd_gIeZD8svRaR_ZtTOQ/s400/mary.jpg" /></a> <br><br>This big-eyed black cat <a href="http://loiskellerdrawing.blogspot.com/">by Lois Keller</a> reminds me of that old Groucho Marx quote: "A black cat crossing your path signifies that the animal is going somewhere."<br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_j97AbIvCvR-I8CCfCfKbHi_2bhdTmPxVuylno1q1w-W6MpOy-lVjLxt4pWelFEeNkiemN1lXueu-VNAksp9jIPkRdwheqRO-WKoLc_dYx37iCGHO4K5Q5Qqcbime4YNM7tklsd4lFXk/s1600/lois.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_j97AbIvCvR-I8CCfCfKbHi_2bhdTmPxVuylno1q1w-W6MpOy-lVjLxt4pWelFEeNkiemN1lXueu-VNAksp9jIPkRdwheqRO-WKoLc_dYx37iCGHO4K5Q5Qqcbime4YNM7tklsd4lFXk/s400/lois.jpg" /></a>Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-3737999412017892992014-09-30T09:54:00.000-07:002014-10-01T09:31:23.247-07:00Little Witch on a Scooter - From Sketch to Finished Illustration<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihOsu1uYutI1PnHGHqAsUyDKIANY8-_iFL42Y7YAgk0-bzthjpGyQRpgPZHzi-3QaRBr9ROEm1B-jlAP7TP5YzgP-2OcOQaRYzG4QokFKfknn69LB0ZDiWlrvPTJ7qGry6zHc9oQsJ2GQ/s1600/witch_finished.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihOsu1uYutI1PnHGHqAsUyDKIANY8-_iFL42Y7YAgk0-bzthjpGyQRpgPZHzi-3QaRBr9ROEm1B-jlAP7TP5YzgP-2OcOQaRYzG4QokFKfknn69LB0ZDiWlrvPTJ7qGry6zHc9oQsJ2GQ/s400/witch_finished.jpg" /></a><br><br>I scanned my original sketch at 300 dpi into Photoshop, then used a few standard Photoshop Dry Media Brushes (graphite pencil, charcoal pencil, and #2 pencil) to color it in a soft black, orange, and brown Halloween palette. As I worked, I made some changes to the original drawing, mainly to the cat and the little witch's face. In the sketch, the cat is facing backward. I turned him around so he is now facing forward and visually engaged with the little witch. Originally, he was a long, lean critter, but I decided to change him into a plump, sleekly satisfied black cat. I made the witch's face softer and wider and moved her hair so you can clearly see her sweet expression. In addition, I made her feet smaller (no need to give the poor girl boats for feet!) and added the pumpkin lantern as a finishing touch. Finally, I added texture by scanning in a sheet of watercolor paper. I scaled it back to 12% and placed it on a layer behind the drawing. I multiplied the drawing layer so the texture shows through. My goal was to retain the original feel of a hand-drawn illustration, and I'm pretty pleased with the results.<br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8alfjOe6NRhx4ysu25hGB8RIRaxF5gaV76KOYMP7O3jnpUdAePNMbkzzMHG3sc6892dWl0dy2jFH9vhZxT8Rh4UAB1zkhqYDi7i8wcdhQLMh0NxfkCt0GjeA2pMv0q_oapGqU-Zoabbk/s1600/witch_ride.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8alfjOe6NRhx4ysu25hGB8RIRaxF5gaV76KOYMP7O3jnpUdAePNMbkzzMHG3sc6892dWl0dy2jFH9vhZxT8Rh4UAB1zkhqYDi7i8wcdhQLMh0NxfkCt0GjeA2pMv0q_oapGqU-Zoabbk/s400/witch_ride.jpg" /></a><br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0sbQA2yFqaiLKtP9sNXi679oBVw3L1_eCpEms1Kj0o77yr_oiGqfguwngcoGe8cPyFdmQ6DLWPaCxY1iRgjWu1eylTD1Kc1BWXLW1ynIaeV7mbKnovS2UwYurPvVCtVo3M8wHIuklG0/s1600/witch_card.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0sbQA2yFqaiLKtP9sNXi679oBVw3L1_eCpEms1Kj0o77yr_oiGqfguwngcoGe8cPyFdmQ6DLWPaCxY1iRgjWu1eylTD1Kc1BWXLW1ynIaeV7mbKnovS2UwYurPvVCtVo3M8wHIuklG0/s400/witch_card.jpg" /></a><br><br>You can find "Little Witch on a Scooter" at my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/203987872/halloween-card-little-witch-and-her?ref=shop_home_active_1">Etsy shop, Raven and Renn</a>. Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-68217003589961856992014-07-26T10:22:00.000-07:002014-07-26T10:22:15.491-07:00Montana Avenue Art Walk 2014<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCO6jKnYFBpEVD8VUAAHmGX-DzpUHwJIisLfJVihfyyn9A5UGrvslBm4eRT20obxno84W_DakUIZZDioT6M1FW5TwTcVaVjUkng0VAjzZjt6IR1rTmoWdu8wOQ6nxaGxQoKfTV9dHs0s/s1600/artwalk14.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCO6jKnYFBpEVD8VUAAHmGX-DzpUHwJIisLfJVihfyyn9A5UGrvslBm4eRT20obxno84W_DakUIZZDioT6M1FW5TwTcVaVjUkng0VAjzZjt6IR1rTmoWdu8wOQ6nxaGxQoKfTV9dHs0s/s320/artwalk14.jpg" /></a><br><br>Remember that old saying: "A good time was had by all?" That pretty much sums up my feelings about this year's Montana Avenue Art Walk. I met so many lovely people who were out for a stroll on a fine summer's evening, and who stopped by to look, to chat, and to buy my art. And a very special thanks to my hosts, the fine folks at Whole Foods, who went out of their way to make sure the evening was a success.Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144104150073083858.post-44734169654338853632014-06-12T15:39:00.003-07:002014-06-12T15:40:35.743-07:00Rose RedRose Red - another painting inspired by a beautiful vintage dress.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZB9YOMhb2IWsGGQCwXe485iDpPucqreah1vtpV4R6HM-px4VUSPCEjtH51w2RKx5tPPVz9nk9UkfRFyUXkQo8Lf1kr41gxu_3NqSMzhUd455oDITPzVAtaMYYbQgibnYF_8-V8YZdjY/s1600/rose_red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZB9YOMhb2IWsGGQCwXe485iDpPucqreah1vtpV4R6HM-px4VUSPCEjtH51w2RKx5tPPVz9nk9UkfRFyUXkQo8Lf1kr41gxu_3NqSMzhUd455oDITPzVAtaMYYbQgibnYF_8-V8YZdjY/s400/rose_red.jpg" /></a></div><br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2VUAmo1yP_wcMkDpRWjGtYnK4CWJoFL-EBNbsKg7n3VC3BL5kay7HJzWl5W0IYWJw4afCUNDoWFEtqmMDI3-T9fApX7u5EBgIMSquJ_q-38W1ookucLJQD6UPtu4NN_4OPB_ak0AedM/s1600/dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2VUAmo1yP_wcMkDpRWjGtYnK4CWJoFL-EBNbsKg7n3VC3BL5kay7HJzWl5W0IYWJw4afCUNDoWFEtqmMDI3-T9fApX7u5EBgIMSquJ_q-38W1ookucLJQD6UPtu4NN_4OPB_ak0AedM/s400/dress.jpg" /></a></div>Joan Charleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10523860267313130697noreply@blogger.com0