emily c mcphie: an artist's journal

A Penitent and Humble Seeker

2012-01-25T11:17:00.000-07:00

A Penitent and Humble Seeker

"Now was not this exceeding joy? Behold, this is joy which none recieveth save it be the truly penitent and humble seeker of happiness."
Alma 27:18

This is my painting for the Ninth International Art Competition at the LDS Church History and Art Museum. The theme is "Make Known His Wonderful Works."

I painted this right after Ewan was born and purged a lot of intense and personal feeling into it. The narrative is about the journey, spanning almost a year, I went on to bring my sweet baby boy into the world. When I feel like my words are trite and far too simple, that they don't catch the depth of meaning that the image does, I want to put my words in verse. I asked my dad to read over my poem to help me and all I got from him was that, although beautiful in its sentimentality, it was terrible poetry. So, the wind out of my sails, but with the desire of a painter to shed meaning on a painting for the viewer's deeper understanding, I am sharing my not-so-great, interminably-unfinished poem.

The Penitent and Humble Seeker

Let me tell you a tale of a mother of three

Her family was as happy as they could be

Though, with kids growing, she dreamed of going

To her studio to paint with time and clarity

In a year her youngest would go to school

The things she will create will be so cool

Oh to perform, take the world by storm

Her life will be so wonderful and full

In two minutes it all came to a halt

Go ahead, lock ambition in the vault

Tears were shed, she stayed in bed

It was all this anonymous zygote's fault

Now this tale turns to a lesson learned

Even though her righteous desires burned

The Lord did know, she needed to grow

A tender softening of heart would be earned

Her daughters bursting with enthusiasm

Sent her heavy heart into a humble spasm

"I'm not being fair," she said with despair

So she prayed light into her spiritual chasm

God gave her light, he filled her mind

With wonderful works line upon line

Ours is a likeness to his kindness

He's teaching us how to be divine

It's a sacred gift to be the one

They trust like the warmth of the sun

To comfort when sad, to forgive when bad

Unconditional love can't be undone

Slipping into the world the boy roared

Up past heavenly heights her joy soared

She fell in love with the gift from above

Happiness only humility can afford

Sunday Drawing

2012-01-23T11:28:00.001-07:00

drawing on mat board

(sold)

drawing in sketchbook at church

In the Studio

2012-01-20T11:24:00.003-07:00

I am working on a commissioned painting. Four kids + party hats = super cool. It's for Christmas... hopefully I'll finish it next week. This is conditional on whether or not I can put a hold on Valentines and other super cool projects and buckle down! In the mean time, other painting deadlines are creeping up and nipping at my heals.

So here is yesterday's creative distraction:

I saw this idea here. She used pictures of castles out of books, I thought I could ink/watercolor on parchment paper and come up with something lovely. Indeed I did. The drawing is an illustration of a Brothers Grimm tale called The Glass Mountain. I like things that glow. (Note the battery powered candle.) Now, back to work.

P.S. Did you know that my right side bar has pages with all my paintings from 2010 and 2011?

I let my website lapse while I work on a redesign, so I put archives up here for now.

On Blogging

2012-01-18T12:08:00.001-07:00

A new year, a fresh start.

Happy 2012!

I'm not a fan of resoluteing, but I am fond of goal setting. On my running list of goals is the big B. Blogging has alluded me this past year or so. I gave myself that year to be in la la baby land. This is where I still reside, true, but it is time to add some professional productivity into the mix. The thing is, I write blog posts in my head daily. I even take pictures for them. I must confess I have about a dozen drafts, half finished posts that will never see the pixels of the screen. I'm not about to publicly dedicate myself to 365, (what? it's already January 18th?) to 347 (leap year? ghat) 348 posts in 2012.

In my aged wisdom I have learned two things. One. Don't set yourself up for disappointment. Make goals reasonable and flexible. And be ok with doing your best, with a heart full of gratitude for what you were able to do. Consistency and persistence? Yes and yes. But it's not black and white. In this great balancing act there will be weeks to crank out work, weeks where your work is a 5th grade science project and a 2nd grade book report, soccer tournaments and a dance recital. There is an ebb and flow, roll with it. Paramount to my happiness is to lay my head on my pillow at night with a sigh and a smile of satisfaction for a day well spent. Not a list of all that I was not able to accomplish, and what I will not become because of it.

Well earned wisdom number Two. I love organization. This weekend we cleaned out and reorganized our entire garage and playroom. I am still giddy about it. (It was really hard work, Gavin called me a slave driver and the girls only helped after I put all their toys in garbage bags to take to D.I.. Lots of tears. But so worth it. I really appreciated their hard work, they know how to make a mama happy.) Back to the point, the key to my success in any endeavor is to have a well mapped plan. So here is it: Three posts a week, one Sunday drawing, a midweek post about what is going on in my studio (hopefully paintings, possibly something awesomely crafty), and thoughts on a topic (yes, these posts will have pictures! You know that reading text is always optional). Also important, I've designated a specific blogging time in my daily schedule. Now, to execute. Wish me luck, cut me some slack, here's to a super 2012!

Sunday Drawing(...s)

2012-01-18T09:00:00.001-07:00

"No, old Rinkrank, I will not open the door for you."

My dad gave me a pile of mat board innards.

They are fun to draw on. Very frame-able.

I suppose I could sell these. Let me know if you are interested.

Be mine? Second favorite holiday.

Just around the corner.

(sold)

Parades. I love them almost as much as puppetry.
(sold)

2011-12-25T00:00:00.004-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Christmas Decor

2011-12-21T12:53:00.000-07:00

All things sparkly.

I wrapped for hours yesterday. I am so close I can taste it!

Intending netflix to see me through this wrapping marathon, I accidentally played a movie that was in french. Reading subtitles while wrapping. Perhaps not the most efficient method.

It's a white Christmas! I ran a needle and thread through pom poms and hung them up with thumb tacks.

These tacks started with bats in October, then switched out for leaves in November, now snow for December.

Ez (5) set up this little nativity. All the figures have their backs to you because they are crowded around Mary to get a look at baby Jesus. Classic, kids are the best.

Did you just kiss the screen? I know, baby hands are so delicious.

Little Miss Muffet - A Shadow Puppet Play

2011-12-11T23:00:00.003-07:00

Our first shadow puppet play in our little theater. I will show how it was made in the near future. For now, enjoy our production. My little Ezra is reciting the version of Little Miss Muffet that she chose as this quarter's poem recitation for her kindergarten class. With Cloe and Delia as puppeteers and filmed by me.

Shadow Puppet Doodle Book!

2011-12-09T13:56:00.002-07:00

I created this doodle book for my nieces and nephews and cousins for Christmas (spoiler alert!). I had extras printed. Lots of them. If you want to buy some for the kids that you love, or even some that you just like, email me! You can buy them for $12 each ($15 will include shipping).

Angeline

2011-12-06T11:22:00.002-07:00

A Christmas Angel.

A miniature painting of a miniature angel for a miniature show at the Greenwich Workshop Gallery in Connecticut.

December

2011-12-01T22:12:00.000-07:00

Christmas

Bring it on.

An advent calendar to enhance the Christmas joy.

I used my cricut to make 25 cute little envelopes.

Sparkly paper and jingly bells.

Silver and gold, white Christmas is this year's theme.

Whew, all 25 to string together with twine.

An activity or treat for every day until the big one.

Oh cricut, cute cards for the cute envelopes.

Merry Christmas!

We had a mug of hot chocolate tonight.

Thankfulness

2011-12-01T22:10:00.000-07:00

I hope you had a happy PIE day!

From our early morning Turkey Trot...

...to a Vegan feast!

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

So much to be thankful for.

Cloe

2011-11-19T06:00:00.001-07:00

Clover Iona chose to be baptized and confirmed a member of

the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today.

She is a good girl and I love her very much.

Speaking of churchy things, I have a mormon.org profile!

Little Red

2011-11-02T14:40:00.001-07:00

This is my Cloe as Little Red Riding Hood. I am keeping this, actually giving it to Cloe for her eighth birthday next week. Lil' Red's cape has wolf ears. The cape is symbolic of being your own worst enemy. That might sound despairing, but I don't mean it so. It is about taking the weaknesses that give you a disadvantage and overcoming them, and becoming more for it. My Cloe is good at this.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T18:18:00.003-07:00

Name: Phi Phi

Totem: Phoenix

Weapon: Night and Day

Skill: Daggers

Magic: Controls Fire

Name: Violet

Totem: Dragon

Weapon: Rainbow

Skill: Slingshot

Magic: Voice Stealing Rocks

Name: Ravon-
ista

Totem: Raven

Weapon: Midnight

Skill: Sword Fighting

Magic: Speaks with Birds

Everdeen the Elf and
Reggie the Celtic Warrior
with Amaranth the pseudo-axe
And her Elfkin baby

Skills and Magic: Drool

The Armory

2011-10-29T22:16:00.000-07:00

Have I been painting? Yes, I have.

Weapons.

From top to bottom: Amaranth, the pseudo-axe; Night and Day, the daggers; Midnight the sword; Celeb Asea (silver leaf) the bow; and Rainbow, the slingshot, with a pouch of magic, voice-stealing rocks.

Sunday Drawing

2011-10-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

Ghosts and Ghouls

I can't stop!

We got "boo"ed by a neighbor, so we made cupcakes to pass the booege along.

I can be pretty fancy sometimes.

Out in the night, strapped in for some quick, doorbell-ditchin' getaways.

So Much Love, it's Spooky!

2011-10-19T14:11:00.002-07:00

Here is what I love: Everyone who made a comment on the last post.

Here is what I don't love: Choosing one to share a little spook with.

So... I've made a spooky sign for everyone who commented!

I can't help it, Miss Mayer! Love. Sister! Love. Sister-in-law! Love. Pam! Love. Chandra! Love. Marlene! Nicholas! Megan! Jessie! Brooke! Love, love, love. I don't think know Angela, Manda, Annalee, Cat, Sarah, Alabala, and Jennifer yet, but I'm feelin' the love!! Email me your address (ecmcphie@gmail.com) and I'll send one out right away! It's almost the big day!!

Spookey!

2011-10-16T17:18:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween!!!

We have been out of school for fall break and working hard on making Ewan's first Halloween really spooky. I made these signs:

This one is for my front door.

I'm sending this to my new friend, Jefra, who lent me her socks.

I'm giving this one to my sister-in-law who gave me a blank stare when I asked if she had decorated for Halloween yet?!??!!!

And this is to give away! Leave a "boo" in my comments and I will draw a lucky winner!

(Don't get too excited, it's a piece of cardboard, and try not to get too scared.)

First Halloween

2011-10-16T17:17:00.000-07:00

Welcome to earth, little boy. Let us introduce you to one of the best things about it.

BOO!

TRICK

or TREAT!

A Rose

2011-10-11T16:46:00.000-07:00

A Rose is off to the Howard Mandville Gallery in Kirkland, Washington for their 21st Annual Invitational Small Works Show. This is my Delia as the puppeteer for a shadow puppet performance of Romeo and Juliet. She's a romantic, that one. I am a little obsessed with shadow puppets these days. I did this piece partially as a study for a larger painting in which I wanted to explore this shadow puppet theater concept.

Most of this painting is oil, but the "shadows" are done in india ink. I have had fun experimenting with a different media. The use of ink, with calligraphy nibs and brushes, was inspired by the project I did for the Phoenix Symphony.

Yes, I said nibs.

On Writing

2011-08-31T18:26:00.001-07:00

I was treated this morning with a happy memory. Eleventh grade english, the Waterford School, Mrs. Sorenson requesting I stay after class a minute. I don't remember what she said, I remember two things: 1. Suspicion that I may have cheated on my paper. 2. She thought it was a really good paper. I had not cheated. What did have was my first taste of being in the zone. I was focused, I knew my stuff, and I let the writing muse guide my thoughts into the words that flowed through the word processor. And it felt good. I'm pretty sure she told me I could be a good writer. Anyway, that is what I took away from the moment and it stuck with me. Confidence.

The memory was inspired by a group discussion with various writers on the Mormon Chanel's All Things Creative podcast. I have the Mormon Channel app on my phone and listen to these programs on my morning runs and in my studio. To my surprise and memorial-satisfaction, one of the "writers" voices on this mornings discussion was the influential Mrs. Sorenson (Kimberley Heuston). Find it here.

I particularly like hearing from writers on their processes and struggles. Words are a bit of an enigma to me. I find writing tedious and painful. I think people sometimes think an artist picks up a brush, lays the paint on a canvas and magic happens. Out comes a beautiful something. And they say, "I could never do that." Neither could I. For some that may be the case. But I, and most artists I know, have a multi-step process with the use of resources and tools in order to create their art. Sometimes the process is beautiful, on occasion it can be rather painful. I have been guilty of thinking of writers the same way. Words come to them easily, they just purge their thoughts and out comes a story. So, I relate from a creationary aspect when writers say that even for them writing is labor intensive. I enjoy hearing musicians discuss creativity as well, but don't find the same connection. Did I just do it again? Accuse musicians of having it easy? Maybe, but I exclude song writing. But they are writing, not playing or performing. So there.

If you get on the Mormon Channel, be sure to give my sister's fabulous documentary a listen. It's really good.

Phoenix Symphony

2011-08-23T11:08:00.001-07:00

What the heck did I do the whole time I was pregnant? I don't remember. I know I didn't paint much. I did get to draw a lot. My friend and photographer extraordinare, Jared Platt, asked me to help him with a project for the Phoenix Symphony. He took photographs of the musicians and I made ink drawings to float in the backgrounds. I love drawing and enjoyed the challenge of coming up with images to match the music and that would work with the figures in the foreground. I used a calligraphy nib and india ink on parchment paper, then added some inky washes. Here are some examples of the drawings and a finished product currently being used on the Phoenix Sympony's website.

(He's way cuter than the drawings)

Ewan James McPhie

2011-07-15T20:41:00.002-07:00

Born Tuesday, 12 July 2011, 2:20 p.m.

7lb13oz, 21.25 inches

My parting words Monday night, "I didn't know it was possible to be so ready for something." After a few frustrating days of waiting, hoping, wishing, expecting, disappointment, and trying to be patient, I had had it. All day Monday I was in a hormonal stupor. Peaceful, weepy, introverted and detached from any of the aforementioned emotions. Gavin stayed with me every minute, helped clean the whole house, took us all out to lunch, and to do some last minute baby shopping. When we got home I wrapped up the very last of my projects, tidied up the studio, and set out a painting to work on in the morning so I could have something to look forward to. I went to bed very content, all was well in the world.

At 2:30 a.m. I was about to fall off my bed and realized I was being pushed off the edge by two sweet little girls. I woke up Gavin to take them back to their room and headed for the bathroom. With a full force gush, my water broke in the toilet! We called our midwife, Wendy, to let her know, then went back to bed. Was it hard to sleep? Yes, I was very excited, but I also knew what was coming and wanted to get as much rest as I could. We got up about six, didn't have much to do since we were seriously sooo ready. So, we ate breakfast, walked, took a nap, walked, the midwifes were in and out, the girls watched movies... finally things got going just before noon.

Once labor got serious, everyone - Wendy, her two apprentices Ada and Ashley, Gavin, and my three beautiful, patient, and sweet girls - pretty much just sat around staring at me. Usually at this point I am totally in my own world, curled up on my bed visualizing ocean waves. So, this was different. It was like a circle of love. I was alert and clear between every contraction, sitting on the floor, conversing and absorbing all the love and affection around me.

I had asked for a slower labor, one where I eased through every stage, and this is exactly what I got. I usually slam through transition, with throwing up and whatnot. I almost couldn't tell that I was there, it was so different that I was a little confused (just when you think you have these things figured out...). I had one heavy contraction that felt like a bulge moving downward. Instinctively I knew what was happening, but it took me a minute to connect that it was go time. Gavin had the tub ready, so I went ahead and got in. We figure I had eased on through transition, with no puking, per request.

Oh, the water was so soothing! It felt so good to take some of the pressure off and ease my lower back. I took my time getting to the pushing part. I think I was waiting for that euphoric anagelesic feeling that comes with babies head pushing on the pelvic bones combined with the insatiable urge to push. I didn't really get that this time, actually I was having a hard time getting comfortable enough to start pushing. OK, I was being a wuss. I didn't want to push,. But, I wanted to see him. I wanted everyone to see him. So I got to work. And work it was! Two giant pushes and out his head came. I waited for him to turn sideways, took a deep breath, and glup-glupped him out with one good umph.

So purple! So squishy! He would not open his eyes, but he gave a mighty cry straight off. He had a nice long cord, so I got to hold him comfortably, keeping him in the warm water. His brow was so wrinkled and concerned. Gavin made me double check that he really was a boy first thing. That was tough because he was so slippery, but he is indeed a boy, with all the requisite parts. He wasn't super happy about his arrival, till I nursed him and then he was ready to join us in ernest. He's a sucker! He actually had a little blister on his hand from sucking it in the womb.

It took forever for the cord to stop pulsing. My bum did not want to be in the tub any more and I was so hot. But, it is so much easier to deliver the placenta in the water, and wash away all the ick getting out. When it did stop pulsing the midwife clamped it and Gavin cut the cord. They took sweet baby to dry off while I finished up.

Finally done, I got washed up and went to my bed to help get baby measured, weighed, tested, and wrapped up, sucking on my finger the whole time. I am so in love with him I can barely stand it! Ezra asked if all the girls in the house could be his moms. Four moms, works for me. These girls are pretty smitten as well. Then, there is the proud daddy. He is so happy. We have a brother now, family of six, pretty fun.

Baby Project #6, #8, and #9

2011-07-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

Project #6

Crocheted Bears

I've been working on these for months, Monday morning, finally finished.

Project #8

Cradle

Ok, really I just got new sheets and washed them. I had thought about woodburning a little boat on one side and the names of all my babies and their birthdates on the other side, but decided not to do it. Maybe I'll still get to it, maybe not.

Project #9

Files

I reorganized all my files with the rearranging of guest room to office, office to baby's room. We got Gavin new office furniture with file drawers, so I inherited the old 4-drawer file cabinet. I have drawers for business, scrap, and other art stuff. My old two-drawer file cabinet moved to the kitchen to file school stuff as it comes, and the keepables for all three girls from the school year. Also, I have files for coupons, store credit, reference, take-out menus, manuals, etc. I'm an organizational genius!

And, 9 projects, finished.

Baby Project #3, #5 and #7

2011-07-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

Project #3

The Crib

I reconstructed this mobile (it was really old and ugly). I painted the base, cut off the old animals and made these little swimmers.

Here is what baby will see:

Project #5

Bookshelf

Project # 7

Curtain

Phew! I've been saying I'm ready for baby every day for three weeks now, but every day I don't have him I get so much done and think of so many things I forgot that I'm glad I didn't have him yet (sort of). I've done tons of organizing (yes, including the top of the closets), I have a new filing system, and my junk drawer doesn't have any junk in it! I've gone through all my girls clothes and they are ready for school! (This may sound a bit over the top, but they start July 25, which is in two weeks!) I've even moved into getting the house company ready for my mom and sister to visit. I have a few things left on my list, but I'm about to run out!! Do you think you could ever really run out of things to do?

My current task is getting the studio painting ready so I can get to work as soon as the dust settles. I am so excited to start a new batch of paintings. Speaking of dust, I was really hoping this haboob would put me into labor! No such luck, but we have a few monsoons coming this week... I'm due Tuesday, I've never gone over a due date and I'm sticking to it. Maybe Double Dream Hands will do it.

Baby Project #2

2011-06-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

This was the big one, painting the room. Super glad to have it finished. These are the most delicious colors, I want to hang out in his room all day. Three quarters turquoise, one quarter aqua all around the room. The ship was fun to paint, I hope it gets his imagination rolling... as soon as he can see that far. And the sheep are above his bed to help lull him to sleep.

Sunday Drawing

2011-06-26T18:40:00.000-07:00

Lil' Red

Baby Project #4

2011-06-25T15:57:00.000-07:00

Another project down. My girls used their wonderful embroidery kits, thank you mimi, to design and embroider these pillows for their baby brother.

I finished them up, and recovered an old ottoman. We are ready to rock!

Barefoot and pregnant, classic. In the kitchen whipping up a batch of delicious eggy-strawberry-macadamia muffins.

Today we said buh-bye to our chickens. We gave Stella, Crystal, and Emily away to a loving family this morning. We will miss the eggs, catching them walking by the french doors out of the corner of our eyes, their enthusiastic greetings, and most of all eating cookie dough. But, we won't miss the poop! We can't wait to get our patio back. It is going to take some serious scrubbing. Maybe it will put me in labor... just two and a half weeks till my due date!!

Baby Project #1 - Finished

2011-06-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

I've set myself up to do nine projects for baby boy. With a four week countdown (!!!) and all project started (and making a giant mess), I've got to get in finishing mode and wrap these up!

I tried to explain to Gavin the nature of nesting as being a real, true need. More than an urge, more than a funny label to put on kooky pregnant behavior, much more than a whim. I need to have my entire house in order to feel ready to give birth. Down to the tops of closets, which I will soon be obnoxiously obsessed with. All the tops of all the closets in my whole house.

Project #1: Paint Dresser. Sari and I got this dresser when we were little. I'm having a memory of a tape line down the middle of the top, front, then zig-zagging across the rest of the room to divide mine and hers. She often put me in a conundrum with the door on her side and me having to go to the bathroom real bad. Sisters rule.

Before

After

Golden Week

2011-05-29T17:55:00.000-07:00

I am just wrapping up my 33rd week, and I am 33 years old - that makes this my Golden Week! I did something delicious every day.

On Monday I went to a movie by myself! (As much as I enjoy being solitaire, I missed my sisters terribly that day.)
On Tuesday I dropped all my "should do's" and painted all day. It's been a while and it felt soooo good.

On Wednesday I finished said painting and went out for a frozen yogurt treat.
On Thursday I visited Dawn, my magical chiropractor, and had my sacrum put back in place. Ahhh, sweet relief.
On Friday I cashed in on my Mother's Day gift and got a massage to further my sacrum's plight to stay where it belongs.
On Saturday... ok I worked all day. We reorganized all bookshelves and Gavin took loads of donations away from here. Organization is golden, and only six weeks left to get baby's room ready!!
On Sunday, relaxation room, our weekly tradition. I get one girl with foot lotion, another with hand lotion, and one more with belly lotion and/or a back-scratcher, cucumbers on my eyes, soft music, water with lime, and all the TLC a mom can absorb.

I wish every week was my golden week.

Because I couldn't get it out of my head the whole time was painting, I am calling this one,

"You gotta fight for your right to PARTY!"

Little Miss Muffet

2011-05-10T20:23:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Muffet

sat on a tuffet

eating her curds and whey

along came a spider
who sat down beside her

and frightened Miss Muffet away.

I wish these pictures were better! My Little Miss Ezra was learning nursery rhymes in preschool and Miss Muffet was her favorite. So, she let me dress her up and take lots of pictures. I love how she is looking at the spider like, "um, I don't think so."

Baby

2011-05-09T13:58:00.000-07:00

We've got baby on the brain! Nine weeks on the countdown, single digits. I'm anxious to get the baby's room done. Loving the turquoise, aqua, and brown. After Ezra's Tangled birthday party, it's on - all baby, all boy, ...and lots of naps. (I have had a hard time with productivity as of the last seven months, it drives me crazy!)

Sari and I made a few onesies for baby boy to wear to church.

I crocheted these rattles, but gave them away to a friend having twin boys. I'm working on more crocheted love.

And, the girls are busy embroidering darling pillows for their brother.

Secrets for the Stars

2011-04-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

Her skirt is a tapestry, telling a story. This story comes from a dream, based in reality, laden with surreal emotions. It is in the dark of night, when all is quiet and dreams are near the surface, that my secrets are whispered. The stars are always loyal. You can tell them anything and they will listen and hold your secrets safe. They won't be disappointed in you for admitting your fears and weaknesses, or make you feel ashamed for putting things into words. They will stay just as bright, moving ever so slowly, left to right, in with the night, out by mornings light.

Secrets for the Stars is hanging at the Springville Museum of Art for the 87th Annual Spring Salon.

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T21:53:00.000-07:00

Thank you Stella Crystal and Emily for the eggs.

(3 eggs a day adds up when you save them for two weeks, this isn't even half!)

(Loved not dying the eggs, just drew)

The family that eggs together, stays together... forever.

Remember how pregnant I am? 29 weeks down, 11 to go.

My Beautiful Girls

My Handsome Egghead

Mind Your Manners

2011-04-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

2011-04-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

BYU TV is airing a documentary about my dad tonight. Here are some details.

A little fuzzy, it says Monday April 18 at 6pm and 9:30pm.

Weekend Treats

2011-03-30T23:47:00.000-07:00

So, I'm having a hard time being productive as of late. Among the many balls being dropped are finishing any of the many blog posts I have running through my head, even those half-started. My sister, on the other hand, is quite up to date. We will be doing a couple of fun shows/events this weekend in Utah. For information, visit Cass's blog.

What I have managed to complete are a few new paintings, like the above piece which I titled: Hippopotamus Secrets. You may be thinking, "But, that's a rhinoceros." Indeed it is. And that tells you something about the state of my brain in my sixth month of pregnancy. Cloe (7) mumbles, "I told you it was a rhinoceros," in the background. Nobody ever listens to kids, except rhinos and hippos of course.

Cradle

2011-03-09T16:26:00.000-07:00

My mother groan'd, my father wept,

Into the dangerous world I leapt,

Helpless, naked, piping loud,

Like a fiend hid in a cloud.

-William Blake

Sunday Drawings

2011-03-06T22:05:00.002-07:00

Sunday Drawing

2011-02-28T21:49:00.000-07:00

Five of them were Wise and Five were Foolish

2011-02-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

I painted this triptych of the Ten Virgins for a show brought together by Art of the Restoration, opening 1 March at the Church Museum of History and Art.

The Day his Dreams Came True

2011-02-20T18:28:00.001-07:00

This movie is about Gavin, my dear sweet husband. After graciously accepting his role as father to three lovely daughters as his lot in life, his wildest dream is coming true.

Sunday Drawing

2011-02-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

My sister's response to our big news, "You are in uncharted waters." Indeed I am, and don't I know it.

Painting Pregnantly

2011-01-20T21:04:00.001-07:00

Jenn asked me about painting with oils while pregnant. It would take electric shocks and some time on the rack to get me to switch over to acrylics. Fortunately for me, I already use walnut oil alkyd medium (by M. Graham) in place of liquin or another toxic medium. I also clean my brushes in walnut oil, so very seldom do I break out the turp. Walnut oil is so non-toxic, you could drink it. (I don't recommend it, maybe in a salad dressing.) Other than that, I try to keep paint off my skin and out from under my fingernails. (I am fairly tidy, if I do say so.) I do use liquin to seal off a painting, and a spray varnish, which are both harmful to feti. I always go outside to use these and I wear a mask. (At all times, not just when I am in the family way.) If you have been using liquin it takes some adjusting. You use a lot less walnut alkyd, too much makes your paint dry shiny and plastic-y. I have been using walnut for four years, and glad for it. (I'm rather sensitive to chemicals.)

Sunday Drawings

2011-01-16T21:44:00.000-07:00

Little Kings

2011-01-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

I finished this painting just before Christmas. Little Kings was commissioned by these two brother's mom. It was a cute story and dang cute little boys.

I often am asked if I ever paint boys. For one thing, I don't have any boys around, just lots of little girls. For another, most of my paintings are autobiographical in content, and there is no little boy side of me that I feel I need to represent. I took on this challenge before I was in the family way, now I am thinking about the possibility of having a little boy around and what could come of that. Hey, stranger things have happened.

Sunday Drawing

2011-01-09T21:15:00.000-07:00

A king and a prince. I have way too much fun teaching primary.

Twenty-Eleven

2011-01-01T23:02:00.000-07:00

New Year's resolution: Make more progecs.

Magic words, "Let's do a project." Hardly anything could make my little girls happier. Especially when there are glitter glues and sequins involved. Special thanks to Aunt Lorelie for the shiny and glittery paper. Hope your new year sparkles.

Christmas

2010-12-29T16:34:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a very merry Christmas from the McPhie family.

Painting as Therapy

2010-12-07T11:45:00.000-07:00

I love painting so much. I could start every "journal style" post like that. Combine the opening sentence with pregnancy hormones, and you've been warned. I've been feeling very disconnected lately. Trying to remake plans for the next year, or the next twenty some-odd years, and give myself over to the idea of this pregnancy and another b-b-b-baby. I am afraid of losing myself, my identity, my spark. This is when painting becomes therapy. The process reconnects me and brings me back to center. Creativity, as well as productivity, gives me sanity. I am working on a big painting of the ten virgins. With ten figures, it is a lofty project. It is just what I need.

Sunday Drawings

2010-12-05T20:17:00.000-07:00

This is what I feel like. I have to eat at least every two hours, always have something in my stomach or I start gagging, ultimately throwing up... nothing. Juices. Because my stomach is empty. It's getting old.

This is what I want to feel. Bravery and confidence. Wearing a mantle of fiercness.

Sunday Drawing

2010-11-28T20:21:00.000-07:00

I just finished up a wonderful week with my sister, Sari, and a few days with my mom and my dad. We enjoyed craft time, El Tour de Tucson bike race, movies, restaurants, and lots of pie. They were reluctant to leave the sunshine, but managed to pull themselves away. Now, I'm looking forward to getting back to work.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

This Thanksgiving I am the most thankful for the surprise little blessing we get to add to our family.

I hope you have had a wonderful day.

Sunday Drawing

2010-11-21T22:37:00.000-07:00

Shepherdess in Jubilee

tis' the season

Dolls

2010-11-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

I took an entire day off of painting (... and just about everything else) to craft. Sometimes you just have to do that - it's good for the soul. Cass and I started these dolls when she was here last month. I have a baby shower tonight for a mom having a boy and adopting a girl. I am in love the the little boy's tight, polk-a-dot shorts. You know, boys can have dolls too. These dolls are the perfect size for a little fist to grasp and squish, and chew on. I've been experimenting with fabric flowers, which I used to top off the girl's head. Very Frida-like.

I think this guy needs a little pair of suspenders. Back to work. Wish I could make a hundred of these!! Sister come back!!

2010-11-10T17:21:00.002-07:00

Birthday Girl

Poor Rudolph

2010-11-08T14:05:00.001-07:00

The other reindeer wouldn't let her play in their reindeer games. Art Access Gallery in Salt Lake City is selling these stockings decorated by some fabulous artists on the next gallery stroll.

Sunday Drawing

2010-11-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

Tweet-ity Tweet

2010-11-02T09:49:00.000-07:00

I totally tweet. Like, every day. You can follow me @empaints. I've been using twitpics to snap of shot of what I am working on every day. I hope to have some interesting progressions to watch as my paintings develop. Look to the left and you can follow me on Twitter.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T22:08:00.000-07:00

Sunday Drawing

2010-10-31T22:06:00.000-07:00

Sleepless in Brooklyn

2010-10-28T18:06:00.001-07:00

Flourish and Fetter Show

2010-10-27T07:22:00.001-07:00

I just returned from my annual pilgrimage east. Cass and I had some hilarious, some odiferous, and some treacherous adventures in Brooklyn. (Thanks Russ and Robin for letting us crash at your place.)

We sucked up creative energy at the Brooklyn Art Museum. And, yes, made a film. Party Hat Dance Troop takes Brooklyn.

Then, on a train to Connecticut where we discussed business at the Greenwich Workshop headquarters. Twenty-eleven is going to be a great year.

I got my autumn fix. Here is the dorky line I used at least twice, which is two times too many: "Cause, you know, the cactus don't change color..." It was beautiful, and crunchy, and cold. I love bundling up.

Were you wondering about the fabulous hats? Why, it's the Connecticut chapter! PHDT is going to take the planet one city at a time.

And, of course, Cass, dad, and I had a great show at the Greenwich Workshop Gallery. Thank you Scott and Chris. I saw old friends and made lots of new friends.

Wild Hearts can't be Broken

2010-10-17T07:33:00.008-07:00

My film-making debut! I just found a new hobby (cause that's what I needed). This weekend, Cass and I made a sequel to our movie, Tell me about Dancing, from last February in chilly Utah. PHDT (said ffff-dot, standing for party-hat dance troupe), episode 2, the Arizona chapter. I got to edit this one and learned how to use imovie. Way too much fun. Way too many ideas.

We had so much whirl-wind fun this weekend. Hun taught me how she makes skirts, we made little dolls, party-hat props for our movie, went to a punkin' patch and saw pigs race, got chills in the hobby lobby, hardly slept, and squeezed in some shopping. I always get the coolest stuff when I shop with my sisters. I really needed some concentrated, spontaneous creativity, of which Cass is the queen, and my girls needed cousin time. And, now I need a nap. I'm so glad they came, thanks for coming over, sister!

It's getting very spooky...

2010-10-12T13:17:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween, cackle cackle.

Sunday Drawing

2010-10-10T20:53:00.000-07:00

The flag I Bear

2010-10-08T11:12:00.000-07:00

My dad is doing a large painting with young warrior women boldly bearing standards (huge flags with the colors of the values) looking mighty as worthy participants in the battle in heaven. It's really powerful and beautiful. I think a reaction to this representation is where my painting My flag is small I know, but it's not yours it is my own came from. Maybe I was a standard bearer and carried a banner then, but now, I feel small. Solid in my declaration, but not very loud. A red flag, because it's the strongest color I know. Small because I don't think very many people can hear me. It may not be large, but it is mine, and it is pure and true.

My Flag is small I know,

2010-10-06T21:04:00.000-07:00

but it's not yours it is my own.

This is another painting for my show with my dad and sister in Connecticut in a few weeks. But who cares! (I really do) My sisters are coming to town!! First Hun (aka Cass) comes with her girls next weekend, then Sari is coming down to ride El Tour de Tucson bike race with me, and my mom and dad are coming with her for Thanksgiving! I'm working on a list of projects, here is what I have so far:

sew pillows
or dolls
make fleecy hats
work on Halloween costumes
a Halloween decoration or banner
Halloween dolls! monsters or witches
paint the chicken coop (after we take a chisel to the poop, maybe not)
Hun has been itchin to make something out of our chicken eggs...
make a story book with pictures of our girls (or us, he he)
or a spooky movie
we can always make cards

Sunday Drawings

2010-10-03T21:31:00.000-07:00

Enjoy God's Creations

I love General Conference weekend. We spent sweet time together as a family, I made spelt-kamut bread from whole grains, we got a 100-gallon water barrel (bring on the disaster, we're good for at least two, maybe three weeks), I had lots of time to draw, and was spiritually fed. A wonderful weekend... that isn't going to end because my kids are out of school for fall break! Woot woot, party time. First, Halloween decorations. Second, camping trip. Third, get ready for sister and nieces to come.

Oh, that I were an angel

My favorite talk was by President Uchtdorf. He talked about finding our "optimum speed," which probably means slowing down. There is so much I want to do, accomplish, and be good at. I just can't fit it all in. He quoted Da Vinci, "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." Sometimes we have to forgo good things in order to obtain better things. Our self-worth ought not equal the length of our to-do list. I needed to hear all of that, to better place everything in my life into proper perspective. Love equals time spent with family, which is my highest priority and the key to harmony in the home. President Monson shared a wonderful message about being grateful. I have so much to be grateful for, I can hardly stand it. So, I will try to "walk with gratitude."

On Symbolism

2010-10-01T14:00:00.001-07:00

Ursus

A visual artist speaks her own language. This language is read in symbols. There are a few that are common, even universal, but an artist's alphabet is crafted out of experience and imagination and is identifiably unique. Everyone uses symbols, think bumper stickers and jewelry. The flip flop, for example. Put it on a tote and I will read you as one who loves vacation, sea breezes, and wearing pastels.

One of the main purposes of my blog is to teach you my language. Not an easy task, putting visual symbols into words. I'll be honest, I don't even know what my symbols mean sometimes. I paint them and know they mean something. Of course, writing about my paintings helps me define and decipher the meanings.

Take these "totems" I have been using lately. A totem is an animal, plant, or other object in nature that has a special relationship to a person, family, or clan that serves as a sign for that group. I know that these paintings are about identity. I think my women want to take on or emphasize the qualities and traits of their animal totems. Ursus is a mother bear who fiercely defends her cubs, is soft and strong at the same time.

Also in this piece, she displays a colorful and happy house. It is inviting and somewhere you would want to be. I'm not sure why it is one-dimensional, maybe a representation of an environment she is trying to create. A symbol of a symbol. The moon? It makes me feel like she is the protector, when all is quiet and vulnerable, she holds her cubs safe.

Sunday Drawing

2010-09-26T20:55:00.002-07:00

Camouflage

2010-09-22T20:38:00.003-07:00

Camouflage is one of a few of my recent paintings that are about identity - perception of self and how one is perceived and such things. I am just starting to put this theme to words. I'll have to explain my use of totems and getting tangled in patterns when I get to where I can wrap my brain around it and wax poetic.

Here is what I love about going to art shows: talking art smack. With artists and art appreciators (love those). When I am showing my own work I enjoy hearing what people think about my art and what it says to them, I also enjoy "educating" people on the meanings and thinkings behind my paintings. Even better, I love getting to talk to other artists about their art. I was in good company in Park City last weekend as part of a group show at the Meyer Gallery. I had wonderful conversations with Ray Bonilla, Justin and Sunny Taylor, Brian Kershisnik, and others. If you happen to be in Park City, stop in Meyer Gallery for a look-see. It is a brilliant show and a wonderful gallery. Lots of good art. I'm trying to underplay my excitement by avoiding exclamations. !!!

I also had loads of fun on my trip to Utah canning all week-end long with my sisters!! Oh there I go with the exclamations. We just have so much fun! And we turned bushels of produce from their gardens into delectable jars of winter blessings. An old friend crossed our path in the kitchen and said, "What good little Mormon girls you are." Yes, we most certainly are.

From Rhubarb to Tomatillos

Sunday Drawing

2010-09-19T20:29:00.001-07:00

Oh ya, I have a blog... I'm so easily distracted.

My first drawing in my super cool new sketchbook that Nina gave me on my Utah trip. Thanks Nina. She made this from an old reader's digest book. Some people are so cool.

Of Two Minds

2010-08-27T05:03:00.001-07:00

Then, window, let day in, and let life out.

A new day, what will you make of it?

I am of two minds.

Adventure beckons, but duty is impatient.

I long for Branwyn's salty breath on my skin,

and I hesitate to serve my ungrateful stewardship.

Alas, adventure beckons and duty is impatient.

I have had some interesting responses to this paintings. By interesting I mostly mean not super positive (but, I have to say this is one of my all time favorites). My publisher said, "It looks, it's kind of like.. um, it looks like she's... tweakin'". Oh man, that's funny. I had to tell him that it wasn't an accident.

The composition for this painting might look familiar. There is a painting called Gabrielle d'Estrées et une de ses soeurs at the Louvre. Gabrielle d'Estrees was King Henry IV of France's mistress and the tweakin' is symbolic of her fertility as she is with child. In my painting the tweaking is actually a pea plucked from the plant growing behind her. Her children are waiting (unenthusiastically) for their meal, and though she would love to sail away on a pirate adventure, she has to remind herself of her duties.

Meyer Gallery - Park City

2010-08-25T11:00:00.001-07:00

This summer I took a couple paintings to my NEW gallery on Main Street in Park City, Meyer Gallery!! On Saturday, 4 September I will be there for the opening of a group show called "The Modern Figure" with Fidalis Buehler, Fatima Ronquillo, Chris Miles, Brian Kershisnik, and Yours Truely. I have five new and great paintings to show. I am so excited! You can come, if you want to. I hope you do.

Come Sail Away with Me

2010-08-24T22:14:00.002-07:00

Sunday Drawing

2010-08-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

T.L.F.

2010-08-15T21:05:00.002-07:00

A dozen years of bliss.
Happy Anniversary and lots of love to my Gavin.

Cheechako

2010-08-10T17:36:00.004-07:00

I saw a hundred ordinary faces, and felt the only cheechako.

Cheechako: a tenderfoot, greenhorn, newcomer

Sunday Drawing

2010-08-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

Shot through the heart and you're to blame.

Naiveté

2010-08-05T10:58:00.001-07:00

Only wanting to hang on to naiveté

A boon to those who don't excogitate

This is a 4"x4" little painting for my show in Connecticut this October with my dad and sister. I still trip out that I am a "grown up" and every once in a while I don't like it. But, it can't be helped, so I should try not to think about it too much and keep doing what I've got to do.

Flash Barroom begock Plop

2010-08-02T14:18:00.001-07:00

The First Egg

A couple days ago we had a full on monsoon. It had been threatening for a while, 65% humidity with the temperature going over 100 every day (pretty sticky and miserable). So, we welcomed the crazy wind, flashes of lightning, and wild downpour that made lakes of our overflows. At one point in the afternoon there was a clap of thunder that literally shook the house... and out popped Crystal's first egg! The thunder scared an egg right out of her. Just like on Goonies when the balloon pops and the chicken lays an egg to tip the scale and make the bowling ball roll and crank the gate open. It's little and blue and so precious that we haven't cracked it yet. We need more barometric pressure so they'll do it again, we haven't had one since (though, we look five times a day)! I've been giving them extra treats like flax seeds, they need nourishment and omega 3s! Love our chickens.

Sunday Drawing

2010-07-25T21:06:00.000-07:00

Sunday Drawing

2010-07-18T22:48:00.001-07:00

Titled

2010-06-24T15:40:00.000-07:00

Poise amid the Hoopla

I've got a lot of hoopla. It's like I'm living in a circus. With all that is going on, I will keep my head up, and maintain my poise. Even my little ids have managed to tame the wild beast and maintain balance.

...untitled

2010-06-17T19:12:00.000-07:00

Alcatraz

2010-06-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I can't say that I did "it," but I did something. Our escape from Alcatraz was canceled due to San Francisco fog. We did an alternate swim, which took us plenty into the ocean. It was exciting and wonderful to swim with the water tossing me about. I came a long way for this race. I learned how to swim for one thing. And, I conquered a colossal fear of the open water. There was a lot of time spent thinking about how I could get out of this, but I am so glad I stuck with it. Now, I have to do it again next year! After talking about it for a whole year, it is pretty unsatisfying not to be able to say I did the real thing. So, I have one year to get fast enough to out swim the sharks.

P.S. Thanks brother and sister for being so great! Sari stuck with me the whole swim, even though she is way so much faster than me. After the race, we biked across the Golden Gate and then some, and ended the long day with a short run so we could call it a tri. We had a lot of fun.

Lions Roar

2010-06-03T21:36:00.002-07:00

"Have I not in my time heard lions roar?"

She said in her best Shakespearian.

She was staring into the lion’s mouth,

Stale meat breath and sharp yellow teeth.

She was afraid, but in her heart she knew:

There is safety in valor.

She held on tight and moved in closer.

Open eyed, the vapor hit her face.

She was staring into the lion's mouth.

After, she will say in her best,

"Have I not in my time heard lions roar?"

Here is What I've Done.

2010-06-01T21:38:00.008-07:00

I've painted a few new paintings and reworked some older ones. I put a couple boxes in the mail today. Destinations: Atlanta, Georgia and Park City, Utah.

Constantine reworked

I've swam long and hard, even done three open water practice races. I think I am ready to escape from Alcatraz. I'm off to San Francisco in a couple days.

Lake Pleasant 2k

Me and Kristin, my race-buddy

I've made 25 fleece hats, wood-burned the handles of 17 marshmallow roasters, made a dozen corn-filled sleeping bag warmers, and done every needful thing (I hope) that a young women camp director does to be prepared to camp and make sweet memories with lots of fun girls.

Up to Long Valley I go as soon as I get back from frolicking with the sharks.

Plus, I made 26 paper flowers to make our campsite beautiful.

I can't believe June actually came and is here already. A day or two after I get back from camp we make our annual pilgrimage up to Utah. Once there, we will run Ragnar Wasatch Back, then relax by the pool, cook up some crazy Cul-de-sac of Fire extravaganzi, and ride our bikes off into the sunset. I have somehow managed to keep my head on straight, and crossed everything off my list up to this point. Even granola and trail mix for my travels. So, here we go.

Found my Camera... few.

2010-05-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

Sunday Drawing

Courage.

My baby turned four!

H.B. Ezra Petunia.

Country Road

Did a ten mile run this morning. Threw some John Denver on my ipod before I left and it shuffled into place (right between Jack's Mannequin and Relient K) with the sunshine literally on my shoulders. I had a moment, luckily I had phone with me to capture it.

Did You?

2010-05-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

What I really do with my time:

Lest you think I'm in my studio painting all day.

On Mothers

2010-05-09T22:39:00.000-07:00

The fierceness that comes with the role of mother is all consuming. We love our children with such tenderness and vigor, and we toil constantly for their well being. The realization that I am the mother-figure in these little people's lives inspires me to work hard, aim high, and accomplish great things. It is my greatest honor to be called mama.

Saturday

2010-05-09T22:34:00.000-07:00

Seconds away from the finish line of my first triathlon.

SheROX Tempe triathlon sprint.

I crazy love my new bike.

For my New Gallery

2010-05-07T10:01:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited about the new paintings I'm working on. My deadlines are coming up, I'm working so hard!! I love the energy summer brings.

2000 meters

2010-05-01T21:02:00.001-07:00

Pardon me while I conquer the world.

On Connecting with an Audience

2010-04-28T17:21:00.008-07:00

As an artist, I spend a majority of my time hulled up in my studio, lost in my own head, wrapped up in my own thoughts. So, how can I take this inward focus and turn it outward with the intention of my art connecting with an audience?

1. Define the audience. The artist aught to know who her audience is. I know that my work has a tendency to capture the hearts and understanding of women. I think it is a safe bet that her audience will be a lot like herself, so that's a good start. She should not paint for her audience, but with her audience in mind.

2. Create a message and a thing of beauty. My dad always says, "If you want to sell paintings you can't paint camel bottoms." Sage advice from he who consistently maintains aesthetic appeal. The artist has to achieve a delicate balance between being honest, sincere, and original and being relevant, unambiguous, and able to relate to. The purest art has something to convey.

3. Disappear. Do the work to translate an emotion or idea into an image, then step away and let the art speak to the viewer. During the process of labeling, packing, and shipping off a painting, I detach myself; I no longer want to be present once the piece is on a wall. I love when the viewer finds her own meaning, whether it is in line with mine or not.

The successful artist is not lost in her own world, she is observant and deeply connected to yours.

4 Plates

2010-04-26T10:58:00.002-07:00

Audacious

Bibelot

Operose

Hugger Mugger

Feeling like a Circus around here.

300 Plates

Art Access Gallery

17 May 2010

Sunday Drawing and a Treat

2010-04-25T21:36:00.000-07:00

I love Sundays

Almond pulp/cherry-chocolate cookies

On Friendship and a Sunday Drawing

2010-04-19T13:17:00.002-07:00

I liked my dear friend Elise's comment about inspiring creativity in each other (she does the same for me). In the middle of a paragraph describing eccentrics, Dr. Weeks threw in this line: Many of them are loners. I think it can go either way. I have wondered if it is too much to ask for an ambitious artist, LDS, raw-foodie, home-birthing, soccer coach who has daughters and loves to run, bike, swim, race and get fully absorbed in a good book to move in next door? It would be lovely if our chickens could play together. I sometimes forget that other people aren't as totally excited about something as me that is probably a bit outside of the norm, let alone have any idea what I am talking about. "You know, because it didn't go over 118 degrees, so, you know, enzymes and stuff." Note to self: Blank stare = no idea what I'm talking about, must change subject immediately. On the other hand, mulit-hobbied people can have friends with a vast variety of interests. A rucksack brimful of topics of conversation at the ready. Loner is sounding more and more appealing.

I am very lucky to have a husband who is easy going, open minded, and willing to try new things. He seriously had no idea what he was getting into when he married me. I was just twenty! I didn't even know who I was yet. We were talking this morning about how different we are now, eleven years later, and how different we would probably be if we hadn't been influencing each other for all of our adult years. I like that we got to grow up together. I think it helped soften the blow.