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a busy week
After a coolish beginning to September, we've been enjoying glorious warm sunny days, sometimes even as hot as 27C (80F). Last Saturday I spent one long day outdoors doing garden chores. On Sunday, we met a daughter and... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 12, 2007
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giant datura
We have a spot next to the front door where we keep a planter of seasonal flowers. This past spring we bought a tall blue glazed ceramic pot to replace the ancient rotting wood one. Filling the tall... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 7, 2007
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RETURNS
P September's calendar is filling up with interesting events. I've just booked seats to see a Finnish-themed music theatre work by an MFA grad with a Finnish name. As immigrants ourselves, my husband and I were quite intrigued by this... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 5, 2007
Making an Impression
I'm very pleased to announce that I'm participating in 'Making an Impression: Invitational Printmaking Exhibition' at the Ferry Buidling Gallery
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Posted by Marja-Leena on September 4, 2007
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rock-flipping
Today, thinking about finding some rocks to flip for the International Rock-Flipping Day, we thought the beach might offer up some interesting possibilities. So we checked the tide tables - low tide at 4:00 pm. We headed out... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 2, 2007
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summer's end
In these last days of August, I'm feeling lazy and lingering, almost as if I'm holding on to summer a little bit longer.... PS.Tomorrow is International Rock-Flipping Day!
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Posted by Marja-Leena on August 30, 2007
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moss painting
Ugly or beautiful? Isn't it odd that it depends on which hat I'm wearing. Am I judging the state of the property? Or am I in my artist's state of mind? ... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 27, 2007
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studio floor
Another one from this photo expedition... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 25, 2007
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ancient chewing gum
imagine my surprise reading this at Mirabilis: A 5,000-year-old piece of chewing gum has been discovered by an archaeology student on a dig in western FINLAND
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Posted by Marja-Leena on August 20, 2007
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reflections in broken glass
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 19, 2007
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creative license vs. copyright law
Vancouver artist collides with Olympic and Paralympics copyright act
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Posted by Marja-Leena on August 17, 2007
broken
"It is a dying lamp, a falling shower,
A breaking billow: - even whilst we speak
Is it not broken?"
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 15, 2007
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Writing-on-Stone Park
This morning, I was very excited by an article in our newspaper about Writing-on-Stone Park in Alberta, a very important place for me, spiritually and artistically. Unfortunately, the online version does not include the photos of some of... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 14, 2007
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August 12th stardust
Like Mouse in France, I wanted to wish on a star, or actually on the Perseids, last night but it was raining. I have more than one good wish and remembrance on this auspicious day: Happy anniversary to our... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 12, 2007
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evening cruise
An invitation for visiting aunt and us!
from niece and boyfriend with boat:
come for a sunset boat ride!
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 10, 2007
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BC Day long weekend
Our long weekend was a wonderful, busy and mostly family-oriented one spent around Kamloops and Salmon Arm...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on August 7, 2007
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a labyrinth
I have often wished to visit some of the labyrinths found in different parts of the world. Strangely, the very first labyrinth I ever did walk on was just a two days ago right here in the Vancouver area.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 2, 2007
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oil spill
For over a week now, we've been appalled over an environmental disaster that occurred in the Greater Vancouver area. Last Tuesday, July 24th, there was a huge oil spill in Burnaby, a suburb just east of Vancouver, on the south... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 31, 2007
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Hornby Island rocks
From time to time over the life of this blog, I've been posting some of my favourite photos of the uniquely weathered rocks on Hornby Island. They've inspired and become essential portions of many of my works,... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 30, 2007
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experiment no.4
This is becoming a mini series of playful experiments!
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Posted by Marja-Leena on July 29, 2007
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the little moth
As I sat down at my desk yesterday morning, my eye was distracted by some movement in the window next to me - a tiny pale moth fluttering between the screen and the closed casement window. It must have... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 26, 2007
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visualizer
Brian Eno's 77 Million Paintings made me think of the wonderful hypnotic dancing colours, lines, dots, shapes that the 'visualizer' produces on this screen in response to music played in iTunes on my Mac.
[Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 25, 2007
77 Million Paintings
Saturday evening, yesterday, felt like a fall evening, so dark so early with rain thundering on the skylights. Desiring some cocooning, we set up our favourite game of Liverpool Rummy on the table, with hot cups of gen-mai cha... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 22, 2007
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experiment no.3
continuing play with materials and textures
still not sure where these are going
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 20, 2007
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colours of music
"Can music have colour? David Hockney thought so, as filmmaker Maryte Kavaliauskas shows in her profile for PBS's American Masters, David Hockney: The Colors of Music".
Read more in the UPDATE.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on July 18, 2007
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fairies in the garden
Oh my, it's been hot here. Last week we had a record breaking heat wave all over BC. It was about 36C (about 97F) in our neighbourhood! As someone who totally wilts, swells up and gets cranky when it... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 16, 2007
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Tina Schliessler
Vancouver artist and a friend, Tina Schliessler, has her series Living Portraits on exhibition at the Seymour Art Gallery in North Vancouver. I was very happy to attend her opening the other evening (Tuesday) and see her exciting new... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 12, 2007
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textures
I'm obsessed by textures, can you tell?
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 10, 2007
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070707
trying out a recently purchased smaller digital camera
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Posted by Marja-Leena on July 8, 2007
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sun and shadows
summer is here at last
hot days, warm nights
seeking shade, cooling breezes
just finished reading Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go
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Posted by Marja-Leena on July 6, 2007
fireworks
Happy July 4th to my American readers! Enjoy the fireworks A hot screensaver for Macs Wish I'd found it for Canada Day.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 4, 2007
my favourite sculpture
First I saw Ossip Zadkine's De Poeet, then Tuumailua's challenge to bloggers to post their favourite sculptures. So here's my choice of current favourite, especially one located in Vancouver: Magdalena Abakanowicz' Vancouver Ancestors, posted a year ago. I'm wondering... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 3, 2007
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experiment no.2
another exploration of a tentative idea
see also experiment no.1
Posted by Marja-Leena on July 2, 2007
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Sámi cultural heritage project
...an interesting, informative and beautifully designed website: Recalling Ancestral Voices, concerning the repatriation of Sámi cultural heritage.
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 29, 2007
a wedding
A trip and a wedding took us away this past weekend, in more ways than one. The beauty of the drive over mountains and valleys to a lovely lakeside town made us grateful, once again, that we live in... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 26, 2007
peachfuzz visits
There was a lot of commotion going on in the solarium this morning though it sounded like birds on the roof. Meet our latest visitor to our solarium - Peachfuzz - who thought maybe it was too cold outside. He... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 25, 2007
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solstice memories
midsummer dreams, white nights in Nordic lands
solstice celebrations, bonfires on beaches...
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 21, 2007
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experiment no.1
playing around with various images
not sure where these are going yet
here's the first one in early formation
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 20, 2007
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Power of Art series
This looks to be very exciting: Simon Schama's The Power of Art series is beginning tonight on PBS TV in North America.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on June 18, 2007
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remembering Dad
It's Father's Day here in Canada and USA. I awoke very early and started thinking of my father, who passed away 15 years ago. I pulled out my parents' worn old family album that they carried with them as... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 17, 2007
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June green
June is often a wet month here in the Vancouver area and this year it's been even wetter than normal, as has been this year so far. The last two weeks of May were dry and I got much... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 15, 2007
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Assemblage IX
Silent Messengers: Assemblage IX
Collagraph and inkjet
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 14, 2007
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catching up
This blog has taken a back seat for a few days while I've been enjoying a visit from our eldest daughter. She lives with her partner some five hours by car northeast of Vancouver in a tiny community, half an... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 11, 2007
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reflected views
As I go about my work around the house this rainy day, I stop for quick breaks at my desk to check on messages, news and a few blogs. In a pensive moment, my eyes lifted up... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 7, 2007
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gardens, woodpiles, rain
He cleaned the woodpile
Textures intrigued the artist
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 4, 2007
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Assemblage VIII
Silent Messengers: Assemblage VIII
Collagraph and inkjet
Posted by Marja-Leena on June 2, 2007
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Portraits of Women
A superb collection of women portraits from about 500 years - a video slide show set to music.
[Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 29, 2007
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found art
a magical find in our backyard, under the magnolia tree...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on May 27, 2007
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Bella Coola petroglyphs
Chris Corrigan is presently up in Bella Coola, on the northern coast of British Columbia. I'm very excited to read: "...we hiked up to the incredibly impressive petroglyphs...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on May 24, 2007
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a queen's birthday
She reigned for 63 years, seven months and two days -- the longest reign ever. She was five feet tall and monarch to one-quarter of the world's population. She was 81 when she died. Her own sons lifted her... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 21, 2007
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Tove Jansson biography
Way back in February of 2005, I wrote about trolls and my love of folk legends, myths and fairy tales especially anything Finnish. In that context came up the name of internationally well-known Tove Jansson and her Moomintrolls. There... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 20, 2007
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Assemblage VII
Silent Messengers: Assemblage VII
Collagraph and inkjet
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 15, 2007
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interview, revisited
Two years ago on May 11, 2005 I wrote: Melanie McBride of chandrasutra felt that Big Media has been misrepresenting bloggers and decided that it was time we spoke for ourselves and let them (and everybody else know) who we... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 14, 2007
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garden tour
Every mother, grandmother, and friend who has been like a mother to another - You are invited on a little tour of a few highlights in my spring garden: Here are the winter pansies in a pot by... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 12, 2007
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this earth
Another one from a favourite place... If you are curious about where this photograph was taken, see the comments in the previous post.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 10, 2007
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a photo
a photo taken on a favourite island...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on May 7, 2007
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Assemblage VI
Silent Messengers: Assemblage VI
Collagraph on paper and archival inkjet on mylar layer
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 5, 2007
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Congrats, Grads!
One of the more splendid events in the merry month of May is graduation. This year we join many proud parents of sons and daughters who are graduating this month from institutes of higher education. Our daughter Erika has... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 2, 2007
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a collaboration
Yippee! Our collaborative project In Its Four Voices - Silent Messengers: Connecting with D'Amico #2 has been published on Qarrtsiluni, the online literary and visual art zine! Go see and LISTEN to it! Then come back.... I must tell... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on May 1, 2007
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May Eve and Day
This April 30th I'm once again reminded by Helsingin Sanomat that today and tomorrow are Vappu or May Eve and May Day, "one of Finland's most boisterous (and liquid) annual festivals". May Day in Finland is a national holiday,... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 30, 2007
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a rock
an odd-shaped covered in barnacles...
I stop and wonder how ancient it is, how far it has travelled
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 28, 2007
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Assemblage V
Silent Messengers: Assemblage V
Collagraph on paper and archival inkjet on mylar layer
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 25, 2007
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thinking blogs
Wow, this blog has been named a "thinking blog" by Peter - poet, writer, husband, father and spiritual guide extraordinaire of Another Country! I'm thrilled and honoured to be included in such good company, and especially pleased that Peter... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 23, 2007
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earth day
Happy Earth Day, every day! Do you realize that the environmental movement has been around for many decades? It has had its ups and downs in support, but it seems to me that this year there is a greater... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 22, 2007
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the call of our past
I keep thinking about my deep fascination for my own origins, of the origins of the Finno-Ugrics, and of all humans. I'm understanding more and more that this is at the very root of my fascination and passion for the traces left behind by these early people...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on April 20, 2007
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Assemblage IV
Silent Messengers: Assemblage IV
Collagraph on paper and archival inkjet on mylar layer
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 18, 2007
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Miniprint Finland 2007
Another print triennial is coming up, this time in Finland: "The Graphic Artist Association of Lahti and the Lahti Art Museum are pleased to invite the artists to participate in the 6th International Miniprint Finland 2007 miniature graphics triennial."
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Posted by Marja-Leena on April 16, 2007
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weekend walks
A mostly sunny and pleasant spring weekend tempted us out for some long walks accompanied by the camera. Here are just a few highlights...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on April 15, 2007
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Ekphrasis 12
I feel very humble and honoured that my new blog-friend Tall Girl felt inspired by a pair of my etchings Nexus IX and X. She wrote mark in response to my work as well as to the challenge of Qarrstsiluni's current theme of ekphrasis, "poetry in dialogue with visual art".
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 13, 2007
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stones or bones?
These rocks make me think of weathered old bones of some prehistoric creature.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on April 12, 2007
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diversions
I've recently come across some great links on a couple of interesting subjects - the first an important environmental story and the second a fascinating linguistic and ethnological one. 1. At Biodynamic Farming and Gardening I found out about a... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 10, 2007
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Assemblage III
Silent Messengers: Assemblage III
Collagraph on paper and archival inkjet on mylar layer
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 9, 2007
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first week of April
a week of hail, snow, night frost, warmth, sunshine, cloud, light rain...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on April 5, 2007
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Assemblage II
Silent Messengers: Assemblage II
Collagraph on paper and archival inkjet on mylar layer
Posted by Marja-Leena on April 3, 2007
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connections
I have often mentioned that finding connections and being inspired by them is very much a part of the way I think and find ideas for my art work. One of my print series is even called Nexus, which... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 31, 2007
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Assemblage I
Silent Messengers: Assemblage I
Collagraph on paper and archival inkjet on two mylar layers
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 29, 2007
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documentation of work
One day last week, I took our SLR digital camera and tripod to the printmaking studio in order to do the photo documentation of my year's work. I'm an amateur photographer, so it's always an interesting challenge for me, and... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 27, 2007
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green
drenching rains
absent sun
turbid drinking water
today
sunny breaks
walk in the park
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 25, 2007
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ECI Grad Art Auction
Don't miss the opportunity to own work from the next generation of great Canadian artists and designers at the 14th Annual Grad Art Auction at Emily Carr Institute. AUCTION: Saturday, March 31, 2007 TIME: 7:00pm REGISTRATION: 5:30pm to 8:30pm... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 24, 2007
hands in rock art
Do you recall my handprints? As you know, they were inspired by many rock art hand paintings from around the world, such as those in Borneo. Well, I've just been peeking into the Bradshaw Foundation pages to see what's... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 23, 2007
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spring!
May the longer days put a spring in your step, dear readers in the northern hemisphere. As if in honour of the vernal equinox this evening, today we've had a respite from the November-like monsoons. The sunshine is a... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 20, 2007
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Benjamin Phillips, again
Wow, this artist is busy! Not long ago, I wrote about sculptor Benjamin Phillips and his exhibition at the Access Gallery, which has just finished. Now he's having a show at Capilano College in North Vancouver. If you... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 19, 2007
another print
Some time back, I presented a little show-and-tell on how I proof my prints before printing the whole edition, a standard practise for printmakers. I've mentioned that I'm working on a series of archival inkjet prints based on manipulated... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 17, 2007
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Kalevala and Vietnam
I know that the Finnish national epic the Kalevala is read around the world, translated as it is into 61 languages. So I've been quite intrigued to read a fascinating story about two Vietnamese women and their involvement with... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 12, 2007
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International Women's Day 2007
Today we are celebrating the achievements of women around the world on this International Women's Day. It's an important way to remember the struggles of women who fought for equality for their sisters and coming generations of women. My... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 8, 2007
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fevered
foggy
feverish
fluey*
phooey!**
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 8, 2007
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garden therapy
morning sunshine
a rare event
eyes blinded
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 6, 2007
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broken blog
On Thursday evening (March 1st) this blog suddenly appeared very odd in design and showed only some of my very earliest posts from 2004 on the main page. The links (underlined as of yore!) went to wrong pages using the... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 3, 2007
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Tallinn's Print Triennial & Conference
Many printmakers may be aware that there is a call for entries to The 14th Tallinn Print Triennial in Estonia. The exhibition will be held 17 October – 27 November 2007. The deadline for the first stage of jurying... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on March 2, 2007
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The Danish Poet
Torill Kove, a Norwegian-Canadian anImator with Canada's NFB (National Film Board) won an Oscar this year for Best Animated Short Film. Her film, The Danish Poet, is a "charming 15-minute meditation on life's peculiar coincidences, based loosely on a... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 27, 2007
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my Monday
After breakfast, I took my tea with me and sat down at my computer to read emails, some news and a few blogs, as I usually do most mornings if I don't leave the house early for the printmaking... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 26, 2007
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awaiting spring
Longing to get out into the garden to clean up yet-untrimmed perennials, prune the roses and hydrangeas, weed and smell the earth, I've been frustrated by our extra long and colder winter. Usually the second half of February is... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 24, 2007
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Benjamin Phillips exhibition
Benjamin Phillips: Chthonian* Dialogue
Opening February 23rd, 2007 at 8 p.m.
Access Artist Run Centre, Vancouver
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 22, 2007
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OriginsNet
Reader Bill, knowing my interest in prehistoric art, recently sent me a link to a very informative website. OriginsNet is about "Researching the Origins of Art, Religion, & Mind".
[Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 21, 2007
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handprints
Moving on from my initial studies of hands by way of scanning, I played around with ways of taking an impression of my hands. I decided to try making collagraphs using acrylic medium on matcard pieces. I applied... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 16, 2007
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in the garden
experiments in the studio
still not working
a walk in the garden
....
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 13, 2007
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the magic flute
Oh my, what a wonderful evening! We splurged on a special night out at the opera and were thoroughly enthralled by the wonderful new production of Mozart's The Magic Flute, in a unique and fascinating collaboration with First Nations... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 6, 2007
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mentors please
We've just spent a pleasant Sunday at the apartment of our daughter, Erika, and her boyfriend. Her father tried to help her with some computer problems, while Erika and I chatted about possible layouts for the artist's website that she... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 4, 2007
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THREE!
ONE, TWO, now THREE years of blogging! I've surprised myself, when I recall my very tentative beginnings with this "art" project, as I like to think of it. Thank you all for your inspiration, encouragement and warm friendship. UPDATE:... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on February 1, 2007
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January/Janus
Janus - etching, 40 x 37.5 cm. Good grief, it's already the end of January! Christmas was only yesterday. I've meant to write this all month because my thoughts have been frequently circling around the notion of looking back... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 31, 2007
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on art theft
The Globe and Mail has a fascinating and informative article on international art crimes that are happening even in Canada, and how one Canadian lawyer is working to educate collectors and police on how to deal with it. Thanks to... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 29, 2007
five things
I've been tagged for a meme called FIve Things You May Not Know About Me, thanks to Jean at This Too. My, I had to think long and hard on this since I've already revealed much about myself on... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 25, 2007
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a blog survey
If you are a blogger, you may be interested in filling out this quick survey Why Do You Blog? It took me only a few minutes to do. Thanks to Cassandra Pages for the pointer.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 22, 2007
Burtynsky interview
"People who are engaged in art are engaged in a process of thinking beyond the present moment, looking both forward and backward, reflecting on how the human story plays itself out. In a way, art is a research and development... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 19, 2007
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Art's Birthday
"Today, a unique birthday is being celebrated around the world: Art's Birthday. That's not Art as in someone named Art but as in art, the kind of stuff created by artists. Art is now 1,000,044 years old." I didn't... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 17, 2007
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at Belkin Satellite
The Belkin Satellite has an interesting sounding exhibition coming up called Oh, What a Blow That Phantom Gave Me!. The opening reception is on Friday, January 19th, 8-10 p.m. at 555 Hamilton Street, Vancouver, BC. The exhibition continues to February... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 17, 2007
Dream Anatomy
Aboriginal "x-ray style" figure. Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, Australia. Rock painting, ca. 6000 B.C.E. © Archivo Iconografico, S.A./Corbis Hot on the heels of our most interesting visit a week ago to BodyWorlds, I've just come across in my... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 14, 2007
sun on snow
loving the cold, crisp brightness of sunshine and snow... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 12, 2007
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Body Worlds
We saw an amazing, very educational and awe-inspiring exhibition yesterday - not really an art show**, but a science and health one based on the human body, Body Worlds. I thought I'd feel a bit squeamish seeing real human... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 9, 2007
| Comments (7)
another storm
The west coast continues to have numerous windstorms, making for an unusual number this fall and winter. On Friday (January 5th) we had snow in some areas, including ours. That night a short but powerful windstorm caused another power outage,... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 7, 2007
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our New Year's weekend
As I mentioned in a comment in the previous post, we went away for the New Year's weekend - to the city of Victoria on Vancouver Island. Once there, we first had a wonderful visit with my elderly uncle... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on January 2, 2007
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another year
Tomorrow is New Year's Eve and the sixth day of Christmas. We are readying ourselves for our favourite way of celebrating, a quiet evening with close friends over good food and interesting games, rather than parties or clubs, with... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 30, 2006
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The Colour Museum
With some pleasurable lazy time after the Christmas festivities, I've had a chance to browse through some of my long list of bookmarks. Artist Anna Conti posted a while ago about the The Virtual Colour Museum, which is taking... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 28, 2006
| Comments (2)
computer art
Got a little time? Get a cup of your favourite brew and a biscotti and relax with these entertaining though time-consuming links that are all about using the computer to create art. 1. Brian Eno's 77 Million Paintings. "... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 26, 2006
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winter story 2006
I'm very proud to share my grand-daughter Lael's 4th annual Winter Story, done with a little help from mommy and daddy, of course. It's now on a special blog so you can see the past winter stories as well,... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 24, 2006
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love, peace & joy
To all my readers Happy Christmas, Hauskaa Joulua, Frohe Weihnachten, Joyeux Noël and Happy Holidays! Love and light, peace and joy this season and always. If you are travelling over the holidays, keep safe and warm.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 22, 2006
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the longest night
Once again in the northern hemisphere it is the winter solstice - the shortest day and longest night of the year, the first day of winter. It amazes me how very many cultures of the world have celebrations around this time. If I were able to choose a special and ancient way to celebrate, I'd go to Newgrange.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on December 21, 2006
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The Big Storm
Our internet is finally back tonight after three days down, so now I can let you know what excitement we've had here! We've experienced the worst windstorm in the 30 plus years we've lived in the Vancouver area. Of three... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 17, 2006
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savouring
writing letters and cards, until cross-eyed watching high winds tossing our huge trees, worrying admiring the little garden lights in the early darkening listening to favourite Christmas music, heart singing putting out a few Christmas decorations each day, savouring... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 11, 2006
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trial proofs
I've had several readers express an interest in seeing the development of a print after I wrote about my excitement when the first proofs came through the wide format inkjet printer. This feeling is true no matter what type of... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 8, 2006
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Happy 89th, Finland
Hyvää itsenäisyyspäivää to Finland and my Finnish readers! On December 6, 1917, shortly after the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, Finland declared its independence. On this date, 89 years later, Finns are celebrating their country's Independence Day. If you are... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 5, 2006
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Margaret Witzsche exhibition
Margaret Witzsche has an exhibition of large canvases exploring the natural and inner worlds called 'Claiming the Dream'.
AT: the Seymour Art Gallery, OPENING: tomorrow Tuesday, December 5th, 7-9pm
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 4, 2006
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print sale
The Studio Art printmaking department at Capilano College is holding their always popular Annual Print Sale, featuring intaglio, relief, silk screen and digital prints created by first and second year students, by artists in the Art Institute and faculty... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 4, 2006
snow graffiti
I felt inspired to do a little graffiti on the sparkling pristine canvas on the deck.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on December 2, 2006
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first time
Qarrtsiluni's current theme is "First Time". I'm happy to note that my submission "First Love" is up, so please go have a look.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on December 1, 2006
rain on snow
This may be the last snow photo for a while. Oh, it's been snowing here again since noon. However rising temperatures will change it to rain soon, according to the weather forecast. Our short-lived white wonderland will be washed... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 29, 2006
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winter rose
in my garden today
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Posted by Marja-Leena on November 27, 2006
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snowy Sunday
As I promised last night, here are a few of our more interesting snow photos taken this afternoon on our walk to the park and around our garden. Though there was not much snow yet, even that little bit... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 26, 2006
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snowing
It is snowing here! Will be back with photos tomorrow, I hope. I love the snow, but not everyone does.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 25, 2006
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an artistic savant
Watch this 5 minute video of a brilliant artistic savant who goes for a 45 minute helicopter ride over Rome. He then draws an accurate representation of the city from memory...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on November 24, 2006
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thankful
A Happy Thanksgiving to all my American blog friends and readers! I'm enjoying reading some of your thanksgiving posts. Many count the , or the things they love about Thanksgiving. Here's Patry's number 4: "Traditions. In our family, we... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 23, 2006
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the xylothek
Alnarp, Sweden is the home of a unique Wooden Library. "The wooden library, or xylothek (from the Greek words for tree, xylon, and storing place, theke) consists of 217 volumes describing 213 different species or varieties of trees and... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 21, 2006
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Nov.16th
November 16th will always be an especially significant day for us...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on November 16, 2006
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mellow
Well, it's still rather soggy in southwest BC, with storm after storm bringing us more heavy rains in the past nearly two weeks than we normally get in the whole month of November, usually our wettest month of the... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 14, 2006
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poppy day
Wear White Poppies for a culture of peace Today on Remembrance Day in Canada Many thanks to wood s lot who always finds such treasures UPDATE: 8:30 pm. I've just been reading a lovely post about Remembrance Day... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 11, 2006
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Peter Frey exhibition
I am very pleased to introduce friend and fellow-printmaker Peter Frey. Peter is presenting Threads and Fissures, an exhibition of his photographs and prints at the Capilano College Studio Art Gallery. Opening reception: Thursday, November 9th, 4pm - 7... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 8, 2006
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Goldsworthy: Rivers & Tides
I've just finished viewing the DVD Andy Goldsworthy: Rivers and Tides. Wow! It is very beautiful, very inspiring and I want to view it over and over again. I've admired Andy Goldsworthy's work in books, magazines and online but... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 6, 2006
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November
November is here. You can tell by the weather, the heavy heavy rainfalls, the wind, the dark and gloomy days. Indoors never felt so good. Turning inward means that my art work is continuing to develop in an interesting... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 4, 2006
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The Relief Print
Gravity by Shinsuke Minegushi, woodcut & wood engraving, 30 cm x 81 cm., 2000 An exhibition of relief prints is now up at the Burnaby Art Gallery. From the website: The Relief Print October 24-November 26 "This exhibition of woodcuts,... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on November 2, 2006
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testing your memory
A thorough test of your memory has begun!
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Posted by Marja-Leena on November 1, 2006
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Halloween
Happy Halloween! Be safe, little ones! All about Halloween All about pumpkins All about Samhain, Day of the Dead, All Souls, All Saints Halloween 2005 Halloween 2004 and a complaint about commercialization... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 31, 2006
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must-see artworks
The new Guardian's Art Blog looks interesting. Critic Jonathan Jones kicks off with his picks of 20 great art works for a definitive list of the 50 works of art to see before you die. Readers' suggestions to add... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 30, 2006
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weekend time
a fabulous walk in sunshine along the West Vancouver seawall a stunning Burtynsky exhibition seen a very enjoyable overnight visit from sister-in-law a happy grand-daughter's 6th birthday party a tour of exceptionally lovely fall colours, fast falling a strong... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 29, 2006
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printing proofs
It's an incredible feeling that's hard to describe, when I do a print for the first time and it looks great! Whether it's an etching, a collagraph or an inkjet print, it's hard to be sure how it will... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 26, 2006
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Griffin & Sabine
Griffin and Sabine, An Extraordinary Correspondence, written and illustrated by Nick Bantock grew into a series of six books that achieved great popularity and are some of my very favourites. I love the artwork, letters inside envelopes and postcards... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 24, 2006
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no more plastic bears
The ongoing fashion for cute, unoriginal and downright kitschy public art fauna continues to make me peevish, as I voiced here on July 9th , July 13th and July 17th of 2004 . And I'm not the only one who... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 19, 2006
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on the wall
As I mentioned a few days ago, I've been playing with layering some collagraphs with inkjet printed transparent film. Here's a peek at what I've been doing. Above is a photo of the works in progress pinned up on... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 18, 2006
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exhibition reminder
Blue Print, 2006, woodcut & lithography by Shinsuke Minegishi (Canada) A reminder about an exhibition I wrote about before: Re-Identification, the travelling exhibition of prints from Japan, the Netherlands and Vancouver is moving to North Vancouver's Capilano College Studio... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 15, 2006
note on 'blocks'
My post on artist's and writer's block has had an incredible response with many very thoughtful and interesting comments still coming in. Do read them and feel free to write in if you haven't already. I'm just reminding readers of... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 15, 2006
Shanghai in films
Shanghai of the 1930's is the subject of a documentary and the background for a movie...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on October 14, 2006
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Toxic-Free Artists
TOXIC-FREE ARTISTS: CARFAC Ontario presents Staying Alive! - A Health & Safety Workshop for Visual and Media Artists
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 12, 2006
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Victoria
You know how I love rocks, so you'll know why I love with this amazing photo of Victoria.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 10, 2006
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wombat's world
checked out a link back to my blog from Wombat's World -the writer was going to Finland to see the Astuvansalmi rock paintings!
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Posted by Marja-Leena on October 9, 2006
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Burtynsky in Vancouver
Image on invitation: Edward Burtyntsky: Recycling No.20. Cankun Aluminum. Xaimen City, Fujian Province, China 2005. Chromagenic print, 58" x 68". Courtesy of Charles Cowles Gallery, NY. I'm really looking forward to seeing the photographic works of acclaimed Canadian photographer... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 7, 2006
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visiting Interconnection
We were sad to miss the opening last week of Michiko Suzuki and Wayne Eastcott's exhibition Interconnection, also the grand opening of the new Bellevue Gallery. By all accounts the opening was very successful, attended by around 200 people... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 6, 2006
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artist's block
From time to time, I hear about writer's and artist's blocks. I think I have both right now! I have good ideas and notes for blog posts. I have good ideas, quick sketches and a body of very interesting... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 5, 2006
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Ancient Human Footprints
This is a fascinating discovery: "About 20,000 years ago, humans trekked along the margins of a shallow lake in Australia, leaving behind records of their passage in the soft, wet sand. In 2003, an aboriginal woman who is likely... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 3, 2006
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passages
in the Wallenstein Garden, Prague, 2002 a cellar in Prague, 2002... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on October 2, 2006
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sigh
Many posts waiting to be written, art work to be done, an exciting opening missed, because I've got a cold. Now trying to ready myself emotionally and physically for a memorial service for a dear friend. Sigh.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 29, 2006
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Finnish knitting lesson
(Still from The Last Knit by annekeAnna) Talk about obsessive-compulsive, this animation is extremely well-done and hilarious. Thanks to my husband for finding our evening's laugh medicine. Enjoy!... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 25, 2006
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fall equinox
Dear readers, I hope you've all had a great autumnal equinox, or spring if you're in the southern hemisphere. Yesterday was the first day of fall and the weather was gloriously warm and sunny all weekend here in southwest... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 24, 2006
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one step
Some days we just have to take it one step at a time
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 22, 2006
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Eastcott/Suzuki at Bellevue
INTERCONNNECTION, Wayne Eastcott and Michiko Suzuki's collaborative printmaking project is opening in Bellevue Gallery next week. This is a recently opened new gallery that is celebrating its grand opening with this exhibition, to be introduced by renowned Canadian artist... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 21, 2006
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rock paintings & blogs
I'm thrilled whenever I come across images of ancient rock art unexpectedly and this has just happened twice over two days. Regular readers will know that it's a subject of great interest and inspiration for me even in my own art making.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on September 19, 2006
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weekend joys
We had a gorgeous sunny day yesterday, perfect for a family gathering to celebrate a daughter's birthday. Today is a fall day with rain, the house is quiet and I'm catching up with a bit of blog reading before... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 17, 2006
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Jean Detheux
Back in July, I wrote about Belgian-Canadian artist Jean Detheux, who creates wondrous works entirely digitally after giving up painting for health reasons.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on September 14, 2006
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Sept.11, 1906
It's hard to avoid all the nauseous revisiting of the events of five years ago, even in our Canadian media and present government. Unwilling as I am to be drawn into this again, especially since I avoid the subject of... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 11, 2006
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Portrait of a Couple
Veils Suite: Portrait of a Couple - one of the first pieces in the series of monotypes within the Veils Suite series...
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Posted by Marja-Leena on September 9, 2006
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Re-identification
This collaborative exhibition features contemporary works on paper from three printmaking studios: Malaspina Printmakers in Vancouver, Canada; Shin-Yokohama Printmakers Association in Yokohama, Japan; and Grafisch Atelier Utrecht in Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Posted by Marja-Leena on September 7, 2006
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September 1st
Hey, it's September 1st already! For much of my life it has represented a beginning of a new year, as a child going to school, then as a university student. Later I went to school as a teacher for... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on September 1, 2006
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Modern Finnish Ruins
"Abandoned buildings, derelict factories filled with incredible old machines sitting alone in the dark halls with their power turned off for good, or nearly collapsed sawmills rotting silently away in the forest, being reclaimed by nature are the best, most authentic and interactive museums of industrial archaeology and local history....
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 31, 2006
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industrial art
There's beauty even on an industrial site if you open your eyes wide.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 30, 2006
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the human journey
I've been happily lost in my travels through the pages of the Atlas of the Human Journey. I'm always fascinated to learn more about the amazing migration of humans from Africa to all the far corners of the earth.... [Continue Reading...]
Posted by Marja-Leena on August 24, 2006
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