Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Honeysuckle Berries



DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork, photos and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Eastern Fence Lizard



DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork, photos and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Bird's Nest Fungi

If I believed in Fairies, I would imagine that I would spot them hanging around these cute little Bird's Nest Fungi.  The director of OAC pointed them out, growing around the Garage Studio.

They really do look like tiny birds' nests, complete with little tiny eggs! I have a feeling these will be featured in a future painting or drawing of mine.  They are far too amazing not to find a way to use them.

Everyday, there is something fascinating to discover here!

DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork, photos and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Southern Green Frog



DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork, photos and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Courting the Muse

After three weeks of settling in and wandering about O.A.C., I have received inspiration for some new paintings.  I know I am most certainly inspired, because I spent the entire day working on the painting and had to force myself to stop and get some dinner!

Now I am sleepy and will soon retire for the night, but I know I will be up early and back working on the painting...as it always happens when the Muse graces me with her light.

DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork, photos and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Friday, September 25, 2009

Cabin Studio Porch



DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork, photos and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Red-Spotted Purple Butterfly (limenitis arthemis)




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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Indian Pipe (monotropa uniflora)


The Indian Pipe (also known as the Ghost Plant, or Corpse Plant) is a rather unusual flower. It contains no chlorophyll and cannot manufacture its own food by photosynthesis, instead it is a parasitic plant that feeds on the beneficial fungi that grow in tree roots. Indian Pipes are found in dark, damp wooded areas, and it is the combination of growing conditions and specific food source that makes this plant an uncommon find.

Most Indian Pipes are a ghostly white color. This pink specimen I found is quite rare, with a red variety being the most rare of all. It is a fascinating flower, with waxy, almost translucent leaves and petals. It looks more like an alien species than something that would grow naturally on earth. It just goes to show you how mysterious and wonderful the natural world we live in really is!

Bumblebee's love the flower's pollen!

DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Autumn Equinox: Giving Thanks

photo by DoAn
Today is the autumnal equinox, which marks when we experience an equal number of light and dark hours. After today, the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer
Traditionally, the autumnal equinox also marked the end of the annual harvest and was (and in some countries still is) an important event in agricultural societies, bringing with it a feeling of completion and abundance. For those dependent on growing their own food, it indicated the coming of the darker days of winter and reminded them of the need to show gratitude for a plentiful harvest. It was the true observance of Thanksgiving.


The traditional American holiday of Thanksgiving falls in November, and many cultures see this time of harvest as a time of giving thanks. After all, this is when the year's work can really be measured. The American Thanksgiving holiday was originally celebrated on October 3rd, which is much closer to the autumnal equinox. President Roosevelt moved the holiday later in the year, as a way to help boost post-Depression holiday sales. This is another example of how we have lost touch with natural cycles and rhythms.


For those living in urban areas, the equinox may seem to be no more than just another day on the calendar. But, no matter where we are, we all can sense the changes occurring. The temperatures cool more rapidly, the angle of light changes, and daylight gets scarcer. We may even find ourselves turning inward and becoming more reflective, as the chillness of the evenings, draw us inside earlier and earlier, similar to the way our ancestors retreated from the long days of labor in the fields, preparing for the coming season of cold and darkness.


One need not identify with any particular religion or faith to feel the change that marks the turning of season. After all, this is not about religious practice, but simply connecting to the richness of life that embraces us all. The outward symbols of the autumnal equinox are visible all over in Western consumer society, even though few people realize that the decorations and activities echo the traditions of ancient peoples. The autumn colors, the decorative corn, and the rich warming soups are remnants the old way of life, a life that was aware of the crucial role nature played.


Why not join me in experiencing a more mindful and deeper connection to the shifting of the season by engaging in some activities that celebrate the true Thanksgiving:

  • Give thanks to those who have been a blessed presence in your life in the past year.
  • Give thanks to the Earth, who without its unceasing generosity, you would not exist.
  • Give thanks to the darkness, for without darkness, there is no light. Without night, there is no day. Despite our conditioning to overlook the dark, there are many positive aspects to embracing the dark side, if only for a short time.
  • Take a walk in nature (a local park will do) and say “good rest” to the trees that are about to enter their dormant stage. Reflect on all the things trees give to us: food, wood, paper, etc. Trees give and give regardless of our appreciation or not. Why not say thanks?
  • Think of ways to honor the Earth. Perhaps begin a family recycling plan, or consider reducing energy consumption, or find ways to reuse more materials rather than just throwing things away, or other environmentally friendly activities.
  • Go apple (or pear) picking with friends and/or family. Taste freshly made cider, or make apple pies and share slices with your neighbors. (The other day I helped prepare freshly picked pears for canning and today I made spiced pear muffins and gave them to the staff of O.A.C.)
  • Visit the graves of your ancestors and share stories of their lives.
I hope you find more in life during this autumnal equinox than just another day to mark off the calendar. Imagine how much richer life can be when we pause to give thanks to all the things that sustain us throughout the year? Perhaps if more people take time to appreciate all that nature provides, people will find it less acceptable to treat the Earth with such disregard and disrespect.

Thanks to all my patrons, collectors, and readers for all your support. Without you, my work would be quite lonely and often impossible to do! I appreciate the myriad of things you give to me!

DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Monday, September 21, 2009

All Creatures Great and Small...




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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 

All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Common Wood Nymph (cercyonis pegala)




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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.   


All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Friday, September 18, 2009

Late Bloomers




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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Perchance to dream...


The Dream Studio, a small simple building nestled amidst a growth of trees and shrubs, was built upon an old foundation found by the director of O.A.C. He built the walls, putting large windows on every wall and a sliding glass door, so that one can sit inside on the carpeted floor, or the soft, pillowed bed and meditate on the beauty of nature that surrounds you.

Lizards visit frequently, and appropriately, as they represent the shadow side of reality, where dreams are reviewed before manifested into the physical world.

Inside, beside the bed, stands an easel, and a small table with books that were published at the same time as the foundation was poured (I believe it was marked 1930). Candle holders and a brass plate sits on the floor where one can burn candles and light incense, to further create a meditative space.

The last few days I have been spending a couple hours in the afternoon to read and watch the birds and animals as they go about their day. It is a powerful spot, where creativity has the potential to be courted and nurtured.

DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork, photos and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Morning in Missouri

Now that I have an operating camera, I will begin my daily photo journal of my stay at the Osage Arts Community. Some of the postings will have a small amount of text accompanying the photo, other postings will just be a photo, as I believe sometimes a picture needs no words.

If you want to keep up with the images, be sure to sign up for a subscription (look for the "Stay Informed" link on the upper right). After this posting, I will not be forwarding the photo journal posts to my usual email list.

I hope you enjoy!

DoAn
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Donate now! DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.  

All artwork, photography and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Rainbow Birds: Indigo & Violet


This painting is the last of a series developed from an experiment with pouring paint. I came up with the idea while watching the birds at the feeder outside my window. I noticed one day that the feeder attracted birds of all the colors of the rainbow. I thought, how amazingly beautiful nature is! I completed a series of individual studies of each of the birds, drawn and painted to scale of the actual birds, then worked at a composition featuring them all together. This piece features an Indigo Bunting and a Purple Martin. Next, I will work on assembling the individual paintings into one long piece! These paintings are great for anyone who loves birds and the beauty of nature! The series can make a great set of greeting cards. You can view print and greeting card options here: Rainbow Birds: Indigo & Violet

Thank you to all who donated toward the purchased of a replacement digital camera. Because of your generosity I not only was able to collect the full amount, but I was also able to get a $25 bonus that one of the donors pledged if I was able to collect all $189.98. Your show of support for my art making has really inspired me beyond any expectations I may have had. Thank you very much!


DoAn
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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the purposes of DoAn Art must be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 


All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Tuesday, September 08, 2009

Great widsom in cold skin


Today I saw a turtle crossing the road that runs in front of the studio building. I was concerned that it might get run over, so I rushed out to rescue it. As soon as I approached the turtle it closed up tight, so I knew then it was a box turtle (later research revealed it was a three-toed box turtle). I picked it up and decided to bring in the studio for a little visit.

Normally in a situation like this I will take lots of pictures of the subject and then do some quick supportive sketches. Since my camera was not working and I have not gotten a new one yet, I could only sketch the turtle. I would have liked to have photo references, as the colors and markings on the turtle were quite beautiful.

The turtle did not stay closed up for very long at all. In fact, it was a total ham! It would pose, turn its head, hold for a time, then give me another angle to work from. All the while, it looked at me with such focus, I definitely felt an intelligence there. It never once attempted to bite and it remained quite calm and comfortable as I held it and examined it from every angle. It was even unphased by Lian (the painting Chihuahua) worrying about with rapt curiousity! I have posted a selection of sketches that I made of the turtle's visit above, pieced together from my sketchbook using a scanner.

After about an hour, the turtle seemed to have quite enough and began to head toward the door. I thanked it profusely and obligingly carried out into the woods behind the studio. I set it down and after a few minutes, it turned around and came walking right back to me. I explained that the studio time was over and that it was time to go back to searching for food and heading deeper in the woods, lest one of the dogs (other than Lian) in the area found it. I turned it around and off it went into the sun dappled woods. Watching it go, I couldn't help but feel I had been in contact with a very ancient and wise creature. Its skin may have been cool to the touch, but it had a very warm spirit. What a special creature! I feel blessed by the time we shared.

DoAn

Would you please consider helping me raise money to pay for a replacement digital camera? Any amount you can spare, no matter how little, would be greatly appreciated! Please click on the icon below to add your contribution:

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DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions in behalf of DoAn Art may be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

Monday, September 07, 2009

Technical Difficulties: Asking for Support

I have just arrived at the Osage Arts Community (OAC) this labor day weekend, all set and eager for a three month residency. This morning I woke to beautiful fog-covered hills and an enormous dew-jeweled spiderweb. I went outside to take a photograph to share these amazing sights and to use the images as references for future works, only to discover my camera would not work! I spent most of the morning researching into the problem to learn that the cost of fixing it would be almost, if not more (with the added cost of shipping), as much as a new camera. I was in agony thinking there was so much wonderful sights to share with you, as well as knowing I could not take images of my artwork for this blog and my website. I knew I would be disappointed if I did not have a camera during these three months at the residency, but worse, it was to realize that not having a camera at all would be extraordinarily challenging for so many other aspects of my art career.

So further hours into research led me to a good quality, no frills, but adequate refurbished Canon digital camera for just under $200.00. It is here where I ask for your assistance. I am at this residency on very little income and need to stretch every available dollar I have. I would be most and forever grateful for any support you may be able to offer in raising the $200.00. I have placed the order and have 30 days to collect the money. Your donation, no matter what amount would go far to help me. Until I can get the camera, I am afraid my blog will look quite empty! If you enjoy my work or believe in supporting the arts or the work I am trying to do, might you consider a small donation?

You can donate by clicking on the Fractured Atlas icon below, or if you prefer to donate by check or money order, please contact me at doanart@gmail.com for more information.

I truly and gratefully appreciate your support in all the forms they manifest!

DoAn

Donate now!

DoAn Art is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions in behalf of DoAn Art may be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

All artwork and text © Copyright 2005-2009 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.

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