If you ask me if I can find inspiration anywhere, I'd say YES even shipping containers! I've got three items to share that I came across recently. And I'll challenge you to find inspiration in unexpected places. It's true that shipping containers can point to problems in our society including supply chain issues, consumerism and environmental crisis. I try to process inspiration and build awareness of issues surrounding the interesting things I come across. I know you're doing the same. I'm honored to donate to two current auctions you can read about below. Plus, I'm sharing my newest art quilt collages, workshop registration and shop update. Cheers friends!
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  1. Alphabet Photographer Eric Tabuchi spent years gathering pictures of the backs of trucks he saw while driving until he'd captured every letter of the alphabet. I am inspired by the consistent format of the images which are similar in many ways ā€“ and yet each unique. I've been thinking of creating modular work with small parts, maybe I can use some ideas from this project.  
  2. Surroundings This time lapse video along with commentary by Hank Green isn't about shipping containers at all. Or is it? It's about all the things we are surrounded by and the challenge of balance. I'm drawn to the color, pattern, grids and repetition of the shipping containers but also by the reminder that ā€œnothing gets done if there is no room for joy.ā€
  3. Sculpture There are tons of examples of art made with and on shipping containers, but Marcus Cannings' Rainbow in Fremantle, Australia may be my favorite. It's so bold, fresh and big! Here's a great video showing the installation process.
 

 
 
 

New Work!
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Waking Up, 24x24" original art quilt collage, layers of fabric, paint and stitching
There is a comfort in the regularity of the sun rising each morning. Warmth and light reveal color, growth and possibility.
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Turning In, 24x24" original art quilt collage, layers of fabric, paint and stitching
At the end of the day, colors darken and actions ease. A period of rest nurtures growth and possibility.
These two art quilt collages will be part of the Harmony exhibition at the Broadway Gallery in Alexandria, Virginia from June 1 to August 31. I'm looking forward to attending the reception on Thursday, July 21.

Follow Up Session Registration
These live Zoom events are designed to ā€œfollow upā€ on the creative process! It's a chance for us to connect and re-connect. If you've taken a workshop, attended a lecture or purchased my books, you're welcome to attend! (Or even if you haven't. I'd love to see you.)
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Pay What You Wish ā€¢ 90 minute Live Zoom Follow Up Sessions Including:
  • Mini-presentation by Deborah about an aspect of the creative process
  • Opportunity to ask questions, share progress and get personalized guidance
  • Group exercise to get the creative ideas flowing
  • Limited to 12 attendees so everyone has a chance to participate
  • Worksheet for note-taking and reference
  • Fun, casual, inspiring time with other creative folks!
Thursday, May 19 at 7 pm CT Register
May mini-presentation: Designing with Negative Space
Tuesday, June 21 at 1 pm CT Register
June mini-presentation: TBA (Any requests?)
 
Questions? Requests? Just drop me an email. I'm looking forward to seeing you!
 
Each Follow Up Session is completely unique. The mini-presentation is different each month. Attendees bring different questions and topics, so the vibe is always fresh. Register for as many sessions as youā€™d like. 

Studio News

Sunrise. ā˜€ļø Growth. šŸŖ“ Light. šŸ’” Movement. šŸŒ€
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Waiting for the Light to Change, 20x20" ā€¢ $550 ā€¢ Available in my shop. 
Use the code MayTrucks for a 10% discount on anything in my shop including the art quilt above and three others in my city constructions series. Discount expires May 31.

Will you look at shipping containers differently next time you see one? Let me know if you see anything interesting. Drop me an email. Thanks so much for reading! Have a fabulous day!
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