Nanci Hersh

Moving Forward

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 00:52:00 +0000

As in the title of this silk screen monotype, I am Moving Forward, and- I want to take YOU with me!

Moving Forward
screen print monotype
22" x 15"

This will be my final post here at blogger. I will continue to blog- but at my beautiful all in one new website that is now live.

Thanks for sticking with me!

Shots from Nanci's Open House/Studio Party

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 00:17:00 +0000

It was a picture perfect end of summer evening and from the start at 5 pm on Saturday, September 20, 2014 to the end- and beyond we had a steady stream of friends, neighbors and collectors join Scott and I for my 2nd (I think it needs to be annual!) Open House/Studio Party.

Open Door to an Open House

Here is a tour of sorts with some shots taken by Carlos Hervas.

Discussing my most recent painting, Exhale with sculptor
Stan Smokler and his wife, Madeline Lewis

This is a great room to showcase work. The color of the walls

was inspired by a sheet of hand made paper produced in South America that I have carried with

me since my days working at the Brodsky Center (called the Rutgers Center for Innovative Print and Paper

when I worked there many years ago) in New Brunswick. My dining room in our house

in Red Bank was also painted that color. To the right of the wall, outside of

The French doors on the right lead to our backyard lanai and koi pond.

My upstairs studio and office complete with doggie crates
where they like to hang (with the doors open of course)
and another set of doors leading out to our lanai and
koi pond.

Our open floor plan, plethora of wall space, and great
natural light are just perfect for a party!

Another shot of my upstairs studio/office.

Here I am on far right talking to friends and collectors of my
work (including two new large pieces from the evening)- Karin and Henry Silbernagel.

The evening was a success in every way, and I am happy to say that many new pieces will be going to new homes- and freeing up my wall space for a future Open House/Studio Party at the Okie Dr. Gallery!

Open House/Studio Art Party

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Sat, 20 Sep 2014 03:21:00 +0000

Nanci's 2nd Annual Open House/Studio Art Party is just about here, Saturday, September 20, 2014.

The work is hung, the house is clean (ah, love that) and my white chocolate/ cranberry biscotti are in the oven as I write this.

A wall in my upstairs studio,
the painting on the left is still wet!
Center-

Curating my work with other elements of my house and studio is half the fun.

Shadow Drawing #10 on the wall
Cool very old chair I've had for a while with
dried proteas from Hawaii that were sent
to me many years ago.
Everything has a story-
and Everything in its Place

And this year, my friend and photographer Jessica Czerwin will be here with camera so I can share the evening with all of you who aren't able to make it.

A Jessica Czerwin shot of Jerry Hodges and I
at my show at Project Space, February 2014.

And above all, what I really love, is bringing people together: artists, neighbors, writers, Scott's squash buddies, fellow guides at the DCCA, parents we met from school, from soccer, and yoga.

Just as materials, images, and stories are layered together to create my work, the people in my life give a richness and meaning to my life, and when it all comes together- Well, now that's a Party!

Coming Together

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Fri, 12 Sep 2014 23:00:00 +0000

Ready to party? Note to self: More beer.

Coming together- Spring at Last (detail- acrylic, spray paint on canvas
with Fork in the Road, one of my net sculptures and dahlias from
my garden.

That's the sort of aha moments I am having these days as I prepare for my Open House/Studio Party on Saturday, September 20th. Last year's event was a preview before I delivered my new work up to NJ for Catching Up Exhibition with photographer Catherine Hartigan. It was a wonderful get together- art, food, conversation and enjoying a beautiful September evening. One of my favorite months.

Come check out one of my favorite places, right in my own backyard

I love when people from one part of my life, connect with another, I feel like they should all know and love each other. Often, they do. And I love lists, well let's just say I NEED Lists. I am making my lists, checking them twice, remembering that last year I had plenty of wine and not enough beer.

Getting ready to hang
Putting an isolation coat on a new painting:
Waterfall, 30" x 40", acrylic on linen.
©2014NanciHersh

These are my lists that I have going:
Get the Word Out- Emails, Social Media, Word of Mouth
Get the Work Ready- Finish any unfinished pieces- sign, frame, hang, etc.
Get the House Ready- Get the outside cleaned up (the pile of leftover mulch that has been sitting in my driveway since May or June is now completely gone- yes!) Spackle and paint - the Terracotta Wall in my Koi room looks so good, ready to hang. That always feels great.
Menu and paper goods- that's always fun, and this year some friends have offered to help, thank you thank you.
and then there are things like-
List of Works with descriptions and Prices so I can let my guest also know about something new I am doing this year at the party.

My earlier work (think Pre- Koi) will be offered at special prices (such a deal!) in my downstairs studio so people will have an opportunity to see and buy work from other series like my crows, Shoe Portraits, Body as an Open Book, art prints from our Butterfly Kisses Book and more.

Butterfly Kiss
from Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings: When someone you lovehas cancer... a hopeful, helpful book for kids
Archival art print
16" x 20"
©McVicker&Hersh,LLC

And... I have some exciting news that I will be sharing with my guests at the party.

Any questions? or comments? see below.

Throwback Thursday with a Thank You

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 01:21:00 +0000

Eons ago I was an art student at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY who had the idea of putting up a notice on the board at Pearl Paint down on Canal Street in Manhattan. I figured what better way to learn about being an artist than working for one. So I put it out there in the preeminent place to buy art supplies at the time.

Shortly after, I received a call from sculptor Ed McGowin who said he was looking for an assistant.
Often I was alone in his studio in Soho working on whatever task he had set out for me, while other times I was able to learn the lessons that I was not being taught in school that go with being a professional, dealing with dealers, networking and balancing work with teaching. I watched Ed and his wife, Claudia DeMonte live life large as artists. Much of Ed's work at the time was creating a physical place or space for a narrative to unfold, either under his given name or any of the 11 other names he legally had created art under. For more on that check out his Name Change Series. Ed continues to work with a variety of materials and media, aesthetically and conceptually. Recently, I came across these 8" x 10" photos he sent me years ago, and I realized how fortunate and grateful I am to have had this experience. Our time together, while relatively short compared to my undergrad and graduate school years has left an enduring impression on who I am as an artist.

Love Story, Inscape 1981
11'h x 10'w x 8'd
with interior tableau, mixed media
©EdMcGowin

I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Ed and Claudia, albeit briefly at the opening Reception in April 2014 of Claudia's exhibition La Forza del Destino at the June Kelly Gallery, NYC. The gallery was filled with well wishers, artists, collectors, critics and former students like myself who have been fortunate to have been mentored by these two generous creative people.

With Claudia Demonte at Opening Reception of
La Forza del Destino, April 2014
June Kelly Gallery, NYC

Ed and Claudia are artists, activists, world travelers and collectors of Outsider Art. Claudia's project Women of the World "posed the question- What image represents "woman"- and invited women in 174 countries to create a work of art that expressed her view of the essential quality of woman." The work was exhibited and then documented in her book titled Women of the World, a Global Collection.

This post is not so much a "throwback" but an opportunity to reflect on the power we all have to teach, to touch and to thank the people who inspire us to be who we are.

Thank you Ed and Claudia!

“Our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be.”

—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)
Philosopher, Poet, Author, Essayist

Request for Attention

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 14:19:00 +0000

Milton Avery, 1960
Dunes and Sea II
oil on canvas, 131.8 x 182.9 cm
Collection of Whitney Museum of American Art

"His pictures were always polite, but they were polite in a way that a man with a gun might be polite. There was plenty to back up his request for attention."

Steve Martin in An Object of Beauty, a novel

In the book, Steve Martin's narrator, Daniel Franks is describing the work of American painter Milton Avery. While Avery's quiet muted palette and seemingly deceptive simplicity have appealed to me, Martin's insight into Avery's allure is what packs the punch for me. like wow.

I am drawn, moved, and inspired by great lines.

As with German artist Egon Schiele's electrifying lines, you can feel the flesh, the posture of the model, as well as the angst of the artist.

Egon Schiele
Nude women dressing

Drawn to line that evoke a feeling, contour the flesh, or lead your eye- or your heart on a journey

Sidewalk sign at Wild Birds Unltd.
in Hockessin, DE
following the news of
actor Lauren Bacall's passing.

or a memory...

Life Drawing, 1991
©NanciHersh

Throw your dreams

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Tue, 12 Aug 2014 21:05:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday... loving summer, rain or shine. especially both.

Heartsong, 2014
encaustic, collage on board
©2014NanciHersh
all rights reserved
SOLD

“Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country.”

Anaïs Nin (1903-1977);

author, diarist

Heartsong, 2014
encaustic, collage on board
7.5" x 7.5" Framed
$100.00

Asking the Right Question(s)

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Mon, 11 Aug 2014 02:00:00 +0000

On the final evening of our summer family vacation to San Diego, CA we took our dinner to beautiful La Jolla to watch the sunset over the water from the cliffs. We happened to look down at the beach at a couple just as the guy was "taking a knee."

It's safe to assume that she said "Yes!"

Within moments, they were kissing and everyone on the beach was cheering. We all "knew" what the question was. It's not always that obvious- or simple.

Asking the right questions can bring clarity and understanding to any situation. Whether you are working with a gallery, or hiring a professional to work with you on a new venture.

Carlos capturing first layer of a new painting

This summer I began working with Carlos Hervas to create a short video that I can use to introduce people to my work. Carlos is a professional video producer and director of television productions at the University of Delaware.

"Who is your audience, i.e. who are you making this for?" was one of the first things he asked me when I asked him about working together. That question feels like a compass that clarifies each point along the way.

He has come to my home studio twice so far to video while I work. This last time he put a microphone on me and asked questions to get me going or dive a little deeper.

A new piece often begins with a new find... I found this net
on the shores of Munson Island when I was in the Florida Keys
with my son Nate earlier this summer 2014.

The skills of writing- and speaking about your work is a powerful tool for artists. I am finding that I really enjoying the process of working and having to talk about it, in large part to Carlos' thoughtful and insightful questions.

For some great info on where to begin on creating a video about your work, I highly recommended ArtBiz Coach, Alyson B. Stanfield's Blog Post and interview with R. Daniel Foster- it was what got me started!

Life is Not a Spectator Sport- Some Travel Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Tue, 05 Aug 2014 22:21:00 +0000

Taking a break from my busy summer to check in. I have been painting, teaching, and traveling the past few months. My family and I have been to wonderful places and shared some great experiences, but let's be honest.

Mama Panda at the San Diego Zoo

Traveling can be challenging and not with out its mishaps and challenges.

What could be better than being a pink flamingo, you get to eat lots of shrimp
and don't need kool-aid to flaunt your freak

Our most recent trip to San Diego is a perfect example. Of course if you check out my FB page you will see lots of happy faces but just to keep it in perspective I will share an email my husband Scott sent out to family and friends with the subject line The Dight/Hersh Vacation Chronicles

Or, what not to do when having a family vacation:

1. Do not book two seats for the same person on the same flight (We inadvertently booked two seats for Nanci, none for Nate. Didn't realize this until the night before when printing boarding passes. It required an hour on the phone with multiple airline management to correct).

2. Do not show up to the check-in counter 40mins ahead of flight time with luggage to be checked. (We hit massive traffic. Must be there 45 mins before flight time, no exceptions. Only solution, two of us catch the flight, two of us race to try and catch the next flight with baggage. Bye-bye Nanci and Griff, see you when you get there).

3. Do not skim board on water that is too shallow. (Nate had the board catch the sand and jolt his ankle and foot, end result, two fractured bones).

4. Don't have a need to get ex-rays done while traveling. (Entire day spent in calling, where to go, do they take insurance, etc...thank goodness we weren't traveling internationally).

5. Don't try to go on planned events with crutches or a wheelchair. (Need I say more).

Or have your older brother push you around.

6. Don't trust all websites for selecting places to stay. (Our B&B was a bit scary, hence we decided not to stay. Cost us one night's fee for cancellation, not to mention, have you ever tried booking a hotel on the fly? We needed to find something reasonable for that night and the for the following 3 nights).

There are other pointers I could share, but I think you get the picture. By the way, Nate will be out of commission for approximately six weeks. I can't wait to get home and back to work!

Scott and Griffin at La Jolla
(I could live there) just saying.

Nanci's note to Scott: Look at the above photo and tell me you mean it!

Learn, Teach, Share

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 20:34:00 +0000

The only way to get better at something anything, is practice, regularly, consistently.

Bobbi Levitt's painting and easel at Painting by the Pond

The best way to really learn something is to teach it.

And to find joy in something you need to share it.

I loved having my students at my home and studio last week for Painting by the Pond. It was exciting to watch everyone's work develop and I know for sure that teaching makes me a better artist. Takes me from auto pilot to being present, demands clarity and good communication, and I learn and am inspired from what each student, regardless of experience brings to the class.

Kay S. set up in the shade (smart lady) and
kept on going all week.

Milan's first oil painting...

"It was a wonderful, invaluable experience, an inspirational 5 days with a fabulous instructor and mentor who helped me to grow not only as an artist but as an art teacher as well."

Kathy N.

Kathy at work

So much fun we're going to do it again... look for shout outs about a Fall Weekend Workshop of Painting by the Pond. The colors are glorious and the fish are still active.

Over the Hump at the Pond

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Wed, 16 Jul 2014 18:25:00 +0000

Today was Day 3 of Painting by the Pond. It was a picture perfect morning- the sun came out after some crazy storms last night, the humidity dropped (thankfully) and everyone is thrilled with the progress they are seeing in their work. You can see why I love this place and I am so happy to share this with other creative, fun and supportive souls (on two and four legs!)

Bobbi's ptg. mid session of Day 1

water and plants are coming to life in her water

Kay found her place in the shade, a bench for her supplies - and
a friend by her side (look closely)

Kay's perspective on things

Milan, working with water mixable oils for the first time
is painting her passion...

Kathy is adding a bit of the tropics to Landenberg with a
vibrant palette

and Maggie, well after drinking half the pond water is ready for siesta

Painting by the Pond Summer Workshop with Nanci Hersh

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 23:58:00 +0000

Come paint with me.

I love my pond- it is where I often
meditate, practice yoga, chill and of course it is theheart behind my Koi Pond Series.
I want to share its vibrant beauty, peacefulness and inspiration with you.

I am offering a weeklong summer workshop- Painting by the Pond at my home and studio in beautiful Landenberg, PA, one hour south east of Philadelphia in scenic Chester County.

WHEN: Monday, July 14- Friday, July 18, 2014. 9am-12noon.

These painting sessions will provide an opportunity for inspiration and interaction with other creative like- minded individuals, camaraderie, as well as feedback and technical assistance to create your own peace of paradise right here.

Beneath the Surface II
oil, acrylic, spray paint on canvas
30" x 40"
©NanciHersh
$1250.00

I will make sure we have tents for shade, cool tunes to accompany the sound of the waterfall, and provide cold refreshing drinks.

How much does it cost? $185.00 for the 5 sessions, July 14-18, 9 am - noon.
Looking forward to painting with you pond side!

Slice of Life- La Dolce Vita

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Fri, 30 May 2014 17:53:00 +0000

Still unpacking - laundry, postcards, gifts, and memories.

Scott and I returned this week from 8 beautiful days and nights in Italy. Picture perfect weather, art inspiration- and overwhelm, food, wine and history. It's all there. We hit many of the hot spots- The Vatican, Colosseum, Pantheon in Rome, the Uffizi, Palazza Vecchio, and more in Florence, and the Duomo and the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana in Milan.

We stayed in two fabulous apartments that we found through
VRBO. This is from our roof top terrace apartment on Via Montevecchio in Rome.

and we walked, and walked and walked. We spoke to people, went in shops and just enjoyed La Dolce Vita (the sweet life). I did some journaling and sketching and took lots of pictures.

Tiber River in Rome

Still taking the whole experience in...

The great thing about renting apartments when you travel is you can
take advantage of the wonderful markets with fresh food. Here is some homemade
pasta, pesto, and peppers we picked up and cooked at home.

Smile and say.... Gelato!

Coincidence?

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Fri, 02 May 2014 18:51:00 +0000

or Divine intervention?

Landenberg Today, a community magazine here in Chester County, PA arrived in my mailbox today-with my painting and me on the cover!

The timing couldn't be more perfect.

Today, May 2, 2014, 6-9 pm is the opening reception for my Koi Pond Series at Mala Galleria in Kennett Square, PA.

And while I certainly didn't orchestrate that wonderful serendipity, I am truly grateful.

Added bonus, is that Bruce, owner of Aquatic Services also just arrived to get the pump for the waterfall in my pond up and running for the season. That will make my koi- and me very happy. Flowing water, creativity, joy and community.

Come on out to First Friday Art Stroll Kennett Square and see what inspires me- and you.

Koi Pond Series at Mala Galleria
206 East State St.
Kennett Square, PA

Call you what you wish- sometimes things just line up perfectly.

Thank you.

Take it Up a Notch

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Mon, 21 Apr 2014 14:08:00 +0000

There's perseverance and then, there's perseverity. Think high octane.

Nate IS perseverity.
photo by Bob Lefton

Talking with a friend recently about life's challenges and what is needed to get through it all. Go through that mucky, dark place come out shining.

After 2011, a challenging year to say the least. I received a second breast cancer diagnosis followed by surgery, chemo, radiation and in the midst of it all, my two sons were injured- one of them permanently. Nate was blinded in one eye. I- we, needed more than perseverance, we needed perseverity.

Maggie has perseverity too! She was getting in on the fun no matter what!
photo by Jessica Czerwin

My own word for using all of my energy to come back stronger and more centered.

My Koi Pond Series is a celebration of my perseverity.

May 1-June 3, 2014. Mala Galleria,206 E. State St., Kennett Square, PA.

Own it, baby.

Top 10 in Kennett Square, PA

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Wed, 16 Apr 2014 21:24:00 +0000

It's fun to be a tourist whether you are venturing to a new destination or revisiting your home town. The upcoming exhibition of my Koi Pond Series at Mala Galleria in Kennett Square, PA, from May 1- June 3, 2014 is a great opportunity to share with you new work, as well as my adopted home town.

Top 10 Things to Do in Kennett Square, PA

1. Come to my Artist Reception on May 2, 2014, 6 -9 pm at Mala Galleria. Owner Zvezdana "Stella" Stojanovic Scott has a great "eye" and exhibits local based as well as international artists.

2. Check out the studio and gallery of artist and friend Carol Lesher just around the corner. We met through our sons when I walked into her house to pick up Nate. I saw a yoga mat on the floor and a beautiful painting over her mantel (her work) and knew I had met a new friend.

Carol Lesher in front of her paintings at a recent evening of Art & Culture
at the Genesis Healthcare Building

3. Dinner at Lily Asian Cuisine- especially on Tuesday for their all you can eat sushi.

BONUS OFFER: Bring my exhibition card to Lily's, May 2nd, the night of my reception

and receive 10% off your dinner bill.

Card front for exhibition at Mala Galleria, May 1-June 3, 2014

4. Wine tasting and live music on First and Third Fridays at Flickerwood Wine Tasting Room AND while you're there...

Owner and Chef Brett Hulbert of Portobellos with his partner Sandy visit Cathy of
The Mushroom Cap to order some mushrooms for their restaurant.

5. Order dinner from Portabellos (did I mention that Kennett Square is the Mushroom Capital of The World?) The restaurant is across the street from Flickerwood and a server will deliver your food along with a linen table cloth, ceramic plates china and silver utensils.

6. Shop at Eco Boutique- the shop with a conscience, and often, an art show. I have shown my Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits there.

7. Coffee at Talula's Table, a Kennett Square staple- or the newer and very hip Philter. Each with it's cool decor- and more art to see.

8. Nourish Juice Bar and Cafe at the Liberty Market. You will be able to sample a personal juice favorite at Mala Galleria for my Opening on May 2, thanks to owner/ entrepreneur Francine Covelli. (Thanksgiving, the best pumpkin pie I have ever tasted- the chocolate pie crust may have had something to do with that)

Juice guy Brendan Foster at Nourish at the Liberty Market. Love love love
his kale, carrot, apple, ginger juice!

9. George & Son's Seafood Market, also at Liberty Market. Always fresh- and friendly.

10. La Michoacana Ice Cream- family owned and home made ice cream with intriguing as well as traditional flavors served with chocolate toppings, chili powder- or not.

Cool or hot, La Michoacana's got it... so yummy!

If you need to walk all this off, Longwood Gardens just up Route 1 never disappoints, and Anson B. Nixon Park is right down the street with their walking trails, disc golf, courts and fields and a stage for summer performances.

Spring at Longwood Gardens

Kennett Square is 1.1 square miles of history, culture, scenic beauty, hip downtown and wonderful people. To stay in the loop check out Historic Kennett Square for up to date happenings year round for cool things to see and do.

Looking forward to seeing you on May 2, from 6-9 p.m. at Mala Galleria

206 East State St., Kennett Square, PA. 202.591.6548

For more information or any questions please contact me at
732.241.0359 or nancihersh@gmail.com

Sounds of Spring with an Invitation

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 17:20:00 +0000

April. Doesn't that have a lovely sound to it? Conjures up images of daffodils and other signs of new life.

Signs of Life II
encaustic on birch
14" x 14"
©2014NanciHersh

Speaking of sounds and new life one sure sign of spring here is the high pitched other wordly mating sounds of the frogs in our pond. The first couple of years here I had no idea what that non stop whirring was, but then again it took me two years to figure out that the street in our neighborhood called Delpa is because half the street is in Delaware, the other in PA. duh.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to get up close and personal for one of the apparently very hormonal residents of our pond.

So the guy with the bulge under his mouth is the one making the noise and yet
check out the couple near by... is he the look out?

After listening to this for countless hours of intimate experiences all times of day and night we realized, that we need to move. just kidding- I have an exhibition coming up, these guys INSPIRE me!

Koi Pond Series at Mala Galleria in Kennett Square, PA. May 1- June 3, 2014
Artist Reception: First Friday, May 2, 2014 from 6-9 pm.

Please join us!

What Makes a Great Workshop?

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 01:22:00 +0000

The opportunity to teach or to take a workshop can be an integral part of your practice as an artist.

Each role is a way to strengthen, develop or gain new skills, network, and meet interesting people.

So what makes a great workshop?

Participants at my Encaustic Workshop at DCAD

It comes down to the experience and, the take away.

The experience: Is it a safe and positive experience for both the teacher and the students?

Is everyone engaged, supported, as well as, challenged?

Here are 3 steps to ensuring a great workshop- on both ends.

1. Be prepared.

Teacher: Clear realistic goals and intentions for the time and space allotted.

If this is a new venue for you have you checked out the space or asked about a sink, work tables, ventilation, etc? Do you need a smart board or any other media available? Have you sent a list of materials to your students so they know what they need to bring?

Students: Have you received/reviewed the materials you need to bring? Are you wearing the right clothing? Do you need gloves, steel tipped shoes, whatever???? Lunch, snacks? (that's always high on my list)

More shots from Encaustic Workshop at DCAD

2. Be Organized.

Teacher: I keep (at least) two Materials/Supply Lists on my computer:

1. What I need to bring for the various workshops I teach- Monotype, Altered Books, Encaustic, Image Transfer, these can be edited or adapted for any upcoming opportunity that may present itself and

2. What I'd like my students to bring.

If the workshop has a materials fee, have you clarified and confirmed with the hosting organization who is responsible for picking these materials up? If it is you, save your receipts so you can get reimbursed!

Do you have your handouts prepared? Students love handouts (me included) to review what was covered, refresh and have a handy list of resources.

Students: Do you have a way to transport your supplies? Even if it's not on the list, it's always a good idea to have on hand pencil, permanent marker, note paper, scissors or utility knife and an apron.

Linda Merry adding encaustic to her water based oil painting

3. Expectations

This speaks to both the experience and the take away.

Teacher: What are your expectations for the workshop? your students'? This is where having a syllabus to handout is helpful. You are clear on what you need to cover... history, safety, logistics, and skills. Any or all of the above.

Usually you would not know your students' expectations ahead of time so that's why during my introduction I give an overview of what the workshop will cover. Then when I have them introduce themselves I ask them what their experience is with the medium or topic, and what they would like to get out of the class. This is important. If their expectations are unrealistic best to address that in the beginning. (Many years ago I taught a series of Monotype and Collograph Workshops and halfway through a participant was not happy with what she created. She left the workshop, her work behind, never to be seen again. Turns out that she wanted to create something to match her sofa- and her collograph was a bit too abstract and uncontrollable for her abilities)

Student: What is it you hope to learn from this class? Are you willing to experiment and be engaged in the process or are you looking for something to hang over your sofa or put on your coffee table? If so, please let your instructor know!

The take away: What have you learned and how can you integrate new systems or techniques into your studio or teaching practice? And... something to show that demonstrates the new skill you have learned!

Colleen McCarthy and her piece
Encaustic, oil pastel, image transfer on cradled board

A Passion for Wax

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Sat, 29 Mar 2014 01:47:00 +0000

There is something so yummy - so luminous, so... seductive about encaustic, the medium of pigmented wax. And relatively simple, as Joanne Mattera writes in her comprehensive guide The Art of Encaustic Painting- "The basic formula for encaustic can be summed up in six words: melt wax, add pigment, paint, fuse."

And that my friends will be what I am teaching tomorrow, Saturday, March 29 from 10 - 4 at my Encaustic Workshop at DCAD.

And as Joanne Mattera adds in the section about Encaustic in the Twenty-First Century, "it is not paint that makes the painting, but the artist." And there are lots of us...

Catherine Nash's computer interactive book on DVD, Authentic Visual Voices: Contemporary Paper & Encaustic offers a compelling opportunity to see the work of 28 artists who work with paper and encaustic through interviews that Catherine completed over a 2 and a half year road trip. These recorded studio visits are followed by images by more than 100 international artists (including me!)

I was introduced to the medium at a workshop taught by Francesca Azzara many years ago at the Arts Guild of NJ in Rahway and have been hooked every since.

See one, do one, teach one.

Roots & Wings

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 02:37:00 +0000

This past Saturday, March 22, 2014 my elementary school suffered a 4 alarm fire in the central Jersey community I grew up in.

The day after the fire, James Monroe Elementary School
photo by Caryl Felicetta

I haven't been back to the old neighborhood in years, but the news of this blaze set social media on fire and the pictures posted, links to news reports and comments from many of my childhood friends offered real time reporting and brought back a flood of shared memories.

What strikes me about the tragedy of this fire and the response of those of us who grew up walking to and from school- and often home for lunch as well, is how fortunate we are to have had this sense of community.

By the time I got to high school I was restless for life beyond suburbia and wanted adventures in new and varied places. And "my story" seemed to be I grew up in Edison, NJ and couldn't wait to get out of there. That may be true as from NJ I went to New York, California, Hawaii and then as life would have it- came full circle back to Edison in the mid 90's- only to want to get out of there again.

But as I think about the fire and read the responses by my fellow classmates and neighbors I am reminded that we were given strong roots so that we could fly.

Roots & Wings
embossed collograph with graphite, acrylic, collage
44" x 30"

©NanciHersh

Some of us returned, some of us did not, but I believe that we each have a strong sense of who we are because of our time together at James Monroe.

Grace Slips In

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Fri, 21 Mar 2014 19:02:00 +0000

Several years ago when I was writing the application for my first Leeway Foundation Art & Change Grant I took advantage of one of the information sessions that they offer for each cycle.
This gives you an opportunity to have your proposal reviewed before you send it out. If available, this is highly recommended for any grant you may be applying for. I thought working with this underserved group of new mothers was aligned Leeway's mission to "promote artistic expression that amplifies the voices of those on the margins, promotes sustainable and healthy communities, and works in the service of movements for economic and social justice."

Turns out it was, but I had to rethink, and repurpose how I approached my proposal. A shift to truly seeing the power of Art for Social Change.
When I wrote my first draft in 2010 for the printmaking workshops with YoungMoms, I initially set out to teach these young mom new skills and offer a place for community and self expression.
Sounds good, right? Not quite. What Makes a Leeway Artist? The difference I learned is that it is not so much about teaching with its implications of status and power, but more about sharing and building community. And once that shift happens, that is where grace slips in and the real social change occurs.

Justine and Bridge with their sculpture- The Power of Love

We see each other as equals, empowered and uplifted by each other's stories, insights and experiences.

Putting on the finishing touches

And that is exactly what happened with our YoungMoms Women of Courage and Influence project that wrapped up this week. To read more about the project in Chester County Press click here.

Volunteer Barb Proto packing it up and heading out...

The projects completed during these workshops will be on exhibit at the YoungMoms 3rd Annual Community Brunch Hope Blooms on Saturday, April 26.

Prima Donna on My Wall- Artist as Collector Series

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 16:35:00 +0000

Alyson B. Stanfield of ArtBizCoach is this week's guest blogger for the Artist as Collector Series.

Prima Donna on a Bad Hair Day
by J.Don Cook
wood, steel, brass, copper, wire, bone,
paint, animal hair
53" x 12" x 3"

When I was a young curator, there was a coffee shop in Oklahoma City called Medina’s. It was owned by artists Paul and Grace Medina and was a bona fide artist hangout.

It was a coffee shop before its time – before anyone in Oklahoma had even heard of Starbucks.

J. Don Cook had a show there at one point. He made his name as a photojournalist, but expanded into sculpture by the time I was introduced to him. I didn’t know much more about him. All I knew was that I loved Prima Donna on a Bad Hair Day and had to have it.

As I recall, it was about $175 or $200 and I didn’t have that kind of money. J. Don let me pay it off, which probably took me months. And he didn’t charge interest. (As an artist business coach now, I’d advise him differently.)

This piece hangs above our kitchen table – between two large windows that look out to the Rocky Mountain Foothills.

It makes me smile! Not just because it’s delightful, but because it was one of the first pieces of art I acquired.

Alyson B. Stanfield is the author of the book I'd Rather Be in the Studio, the Artist's No Excuse Guide to Self Promotion, my personal go-to book from everything to writing an artist statement, getting organized or getting a gallery. Alyson also teaches workshops in person and online and has a plethora of material available to help you take control of your art career and share it with the world.

Works in Progress with YoungMoms

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 00:04:00 +0000

Brooke and Brooke(?)

This week wraps up the art workshops with YoungMoms of Kennett Square, PA funded by a Leeway Foundation ACG 2013.

YoungMoms and mentors get down and work together on the mixed media
figurative sculptures

The goal of the project is to work together collaboratively with a variety of materials and media while we learn about women who have overcome challenges and adversity to make a positive impact on the world.

We always start with a great home made meal prepare by wonderful volunteers from the community and then the kids go off to play in another room with the two sitters while we get down to work.

YM Executive Director Linda Mercner, left,
with volunteer extraordinaire
Barbara Proto on right

Our first two sessions together had us creating collage portraits of different women followed by a session making exquisite corpses. We are now well into creating mixed media sculptures of our own super women.

Using inkjet prints of the YoungMoms faces we used Liquitex gel medium to create image transfers onto Crayola Model Magic- reminding us that we create our own future, and anything is possible.

The Power of Love
by Justine

The images transferred onto the surface with varying degrees in tact, and everyone had a great time working back into the faces with collage and paint.

Bridget... has worked with me before and it is so awesome to see
her come into her own as a woman and a mother

The girls also began to create the armatures for their figures out of boxes, tubes and other recycled materials.

Bethany and Stephanie

The sculptures are a work in progress... just like us! They are going to be on exhibit at the 3rd Annual YoungMoms Brunch on April 26 at the Garage in Kennett Square, PA.

Surviving the "Great Holiday Take Down" - Artist as Collector

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Sun, 02 Mar 2014 23:20:00 +0000

New Jersey based artist Joy Kreves is this week's guest blogger for the Artist as Collector Series.

Joy Barth
Christmas Card 2013

Joy Barth's work is very textural with some kind of transcendent quality, which is very immaterial, non-physical. This fascinates me.

Although I have purchased Joy Barth's work, this small painting arrived in the mail as a Christmas card this past year. Typical of her work, it shows her muted palette and surface that has undergone much back-and-forth working with scrubbing and washes, sparkling textures, and the mystical quality that her best works achieve.

I love it so much that it survived the great "Holiday Cards Take Down," and is still on the mantel.

Joy Kreves is a mixed media artist whose work explores human-earth-universe interconnectedness, using all sorts of created and found materials.

Gilded Bee Bowl Setting

Ceramic, preserved moss, cornstarch, twigs, real gilded bees

6"h. X 17" w. X 14"l.

YoungMoms Make Exquisite Corpses

noreply@blogger.com (Nanci Hersh) — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 16:10:00 +0000

Art workshop #2 of my Leeway ACG '2013 with YoungMoms of Kennett Square, PA found us lying around, mixing it up, and creating personal symbols of beauty, strength, hope and faith.

We traced...

Building upon our first week together where we learned about women who have had positive impact on the world and made collages, this week we collaborated to create exquisite corpses, based on the Surrealist parlor game where people would take turns adding words or images to a single piece of work resulting in surprising hybrids.

After one girl in each group was traced, we cut up the outlined figure, with each girl working on a section.

Then put them back together.

And here we are... our own awesome super heroes!