Prine Line

Prine Line by Suzanne Jacobs-Fabian

Prine to the rescue. Finally finished this line art of John Prine. With him in it, it's a "Beautiful World" while I sit under my "Blue Umbrella" and think about my "Darling Hometown".

Seriously, the man is a genius.

Yeehaw!

Barnyard Butcher by Yeehaw

Woody Guthrie, American Poet by Yeehaw

Celebrating the print processes... Time to visit Julie Belcher and Kevin Bradley. Hailing from Tennessee, these two command a large space and creative juices. By the size of this downhome flavor, it sure ain't hurtin' 'em none.

Their Etsy "featured seller" page reveals a rich tradition of respecting the spirit of culture and strength in diversity. Whether it's their Barnyard Butcher/Chicken Killer No. 1, an iconic symbol or Woody Guthrie, American Poet, in outsider styling...it's fantastic s__t! Now, I've always believed that the end result masks the complex yet wonderful process of hand-inked and hand-pulled artwork. With sure and sometimes dirty paws, the works of art, churned out in limited editions are each individually handled - creating a unique print every time. Skillful mastery is enviable especially when the results are vividly stimulating even when the ink is limited to just one color!

Visitors of Hatch Show prints in Nashville can see that HSP produces some of the most memorable concert posters around. (Hatch's direct link leads to a site that might be infected but you can still see samples on the previous link. Thanks, Ryman.) Though music is food for the soul, I find the subject of just music to be limiting. Life's tangible wealth of imagery demands the inclusion of variety. Lucky for us that YeeHaw has perfected that art - brandishing salvation in an ink can. At right, Kevin adjusts his Barnyard Butcher plate with a confident hand. Visit their studio and you'll find out why Julie, shown above, says they've "been kickin' ass & takin' names ever since" they started this ride. Gotta love that humor. You can feel it in their works and their words.

Now, there's no need for me to promote them. Nope, they're successful enough. But, I just have a need to crow about the pieces that inspire me and these pieces do just that. I pat myself on the back with awkward enthusiasm and tight ligaments 'cause letterpress fans are the just best type! Pun intended. There I go tootin' my horn again.

p.s. Colorful lesson of the day for animal lovers. Especially those that love block prints. (nope, I'm not giving you the link) You need to mosey on over there. You'll find fun when you visit their Etsy shop and check out the Grinnin' Critter card set.

p.p.s Here's a thought for Yeehaw. If you do a crow print, let me see that wind and a prayer, okay?

Mad Potter

Enter Larry Watson for some serious artistic consideration. Whatever title he uses to describe what he does, it's sure to generate interest. Breaking from the traditional printing industry, his creativity has been unleashed in a humble barn. His glazed works include a bit of whimsy and loads of technique. In his own words, he "put the fun and funky in functional!" Larry's is an amazing body of work. He seems to be quite the world traveler too. Just back from Hawaii, he's graciously agreed to let me feature his art. Art that reflects worldliness. On Watson Studios Pottery website, you'll instantly see a piece topped off with a hat for a lid. Charm aside, his pieces are quality works created with the skillful hands of a seasoned potter. 25 years of seasoning!

Let's review 3 of my Watson favs. First is Mini Face Teapot Serenity. This is the one that first drew me to Larry's work. Pure delight. Especially for those such as myself who have a particular penchant for unique faces. Buy a pair and you've created your own split personality.

Second is the Curly Attitude Teapot. Finesse needn't lack detail. The curly handle and surface treatment are recurring themes in Watson Studio creations. Its appealing aesthetic adds that personal touch. Functional style, yes, but these works of art just ache to be showcased.

Lastly, is Green Masked Character Teapot. Within the details, the viewer is invited to his or her own interpretation. I'm thinking dreadlocks and a confident demeanor.

I'm drawn to Larry's other works as well such as his generous jardienes. Be sure to peruse his wealth of wares and gorgeous glazes. It's a great start to beginning that collection you've always wanted. Wonder what will catch your eye and what flavor you will see. Is it Oriental or earthy American, French or Indian? Your call. His talent.

Hot Air

I rest my case. I haaaate helium balloons. They never die. Did an important figure die 'cause I've got one that's flying at half-mast. They're worse than dying plants. At least those are still trying to clean air. Even if they're free... 4 words. No more helium balloons.

One more word. R E A L L Y!