Alicia M B Ballard

Have definitely moved to my website!

2011-09-25T14:54:00.006-07:00

Visítame
Visitemoi
Come see me sometime....
@ The Terra Studios

Colectivo Virtuosi Infraganti Collective

2011-09-25T14:53:00.001-07:00

As creator and director of the FiberFusion International Mural

I also invite you to please visit the web page,

and see what we have been up to....

????

Flat, Brut Rosé

2011-04-17T13:18:00.001-07:00

Acrylic, 30X40 cm.

Artist Call - International Project

2011-04-01T14:19:00.002-07:00

Deadline: past... still,

(couple of spots left, talk to me..)

Virtuosi Infraganti Collective

(Info@VirtuosiInfraganti.org)

Waiting for the Prince

2011-02-14T10:56:00.002-08:00

a social commentary...

Acrylic/mixed 30X40cm
Available exclusively @ Galeria Torrego Art, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Waiting for Barbie

2011-02-14T10:54:00.002-08:00

a social commentary...

Acrylic/mixed 30X49cm
Available exclusively @ Galeria Torrego Art, Sao Paulo, Brazil

The nearness of you

2011-02-14T10:39:00.001-08:00

30X40cm acrylic/copper leaf

(mixed media)

... sometimes, there is someone near you that can pleasantly

turn your world, upside-down

Participating in Women: secrets and confidences

2011-02-01T14:53:00.001-08:00

The circle of life: Spring

4X6" acrylic on paper
(as an original)

Women, Secrets and confidences

Participating in Women: secrets and confidences

2011-02-01T14:50:00.007-08:00

Spliced. Her, and seven episodes:
Her,

The waning,

The comings and goings,

The broken heart,

The treason,

The Waiting,

The dark,

The flight,

What's hers.

Women, secrets and confidences

23X38" acrylic and graphite on paper

(as a digital reproduction)

Solitaire

2010-11-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

Acrylic, 30X40 cm

Close up and intimately delicious morsels ... revisited

2010-09-20T23:39:00.009-07:00

of this labor intensive, but most enjoyable
Semiahmoo Magic Limited Series

all back at the studio and "looking for a good home"

"Tangerine Passages" - detail, canvas on board, mixed media 16x20"

"Storm Brewing" - detail, acrylic skin on canvas,

mixed-media 8x8"

"Island Glow" - detail, acrylic skin on birch board, mixed-media 9x12"

"Island Dreams" - detail, acrylic skin on canvas, mixed-media 12X12"

"Strait Horizon" - detail, acrylic skin on canvas, mixed-media 12x12"

"On the Rock" - detail, acrylic skin on canvas, mixed-media 12x24"

"Moon Drift" - detail, acrylic skin on canvas, mixed-media 12x24"

"East Glow" - detail, acrylic skin on canvas, mixed-media 8x8"

"Twilight Point" - detail, acrylic skin on canvas, mixed-media 8x8"

Now - only available @ Illuminarti in Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy

After taking part in the Linea D'Arte Galleria's 4th Annual International VentiperVenti Exhibition
in Naples, Italy, June 20 - July 20, 2010

These works do not require a frame, unless your decor is more traditional,

and calls for a formal presence...

Sizes are: 8x8" - 12x12" - 9x12" - 12x24" - 16x20"

Feel free to arrange a leisurely private viewing at

the StudioGaleria

"Peregrine Sun"

2010-09-08T08:36:00.003-07:00

acrylic, 24X36"/61X82cm

From the series "Because I can..."

Available only @ Artsolutely Fabulous fund raising Gala

June 17 18:30 - 21:00PM at Flue Frog Studios

tickets in advance from Semiahmoo Arts

~*~

"The Risk"

2010-07-16T16:42:00.007-07:00

acrylic, 24X36"/61X82cm

From the series "Because I can..."

~*~

Interview - Part I and 2

2010-07-10T16:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.michele-andree-unblugged.com/ Part 1
http://www.michele-andree-unblugged.com/alicia-mb-ballard-from-the-core2 Part 2

Also, take a look at the Health and Wellness section
for The Terra Studios' Introduction of
"Circumpunct"

A closer look at

2010-05-01T20:20:00.002-07:00

"Point Taken"

An acrylic "skin" placed on canvas

making one painting inside another...

The most accurate photo, particularly colorwise...

As the many glazes transmit and reflect light

and, give depth to this, 12" x 24" multi-media

gilded work from the

Semiahmoo Magic Limited Series

(only 15 works!)

$1599.00

Also touring in Mexico...

2010-04-18T10:49:00.002-07:00

Two countries at the same time.

(As original is in an the Itinerant Exhibit in Argentina.)

From L to R: Benjamín González Roaro, Director General de la Lotería Nacional, Mayra Galindo Leal, Directora General de la Asociación Mexicana de Lucha contra el Cáncer, Arturo Guel Pañola, Oncólogo Médico, Roberto Guizar Díaz, Presidente Ejecutivo de la Asociación Mexicana de Lucha contra el Cáncer y de ladito Alejandro Mohar Betancourt, Director General del Instituto Nacional de Cancerología.

"Intermezzo Giocoso"

Behind the dignitaries

while the original is still in Argentina

(A little preview. For more, click)

La Gira por Mexico:

16 de Abril
2010,
6:00 PM

Evento Social "Restaurante Terraneo"
Exposicion de Obras de Arte

Semana del 19 al 23 de Abril, 2010
EXPOSICION DE OBRAS DE ARTE

Exposicion de Obras de Arte

Av. Instituto Politecnico
L-1, Mz1, Smz 509.
C.P. 77534 Cancún, Q. Roo

ReIntroducing "Semiahmoo Magic"

2010-04-04T11:24:00.004-07:00

A Mixed-Media Limited Series

From humble beginnings, to an acrylic skin, to the

larger life... of a painting within a painting,

A novel technique, resulting unique works...

AB79 "Point Taken" 12x24"

acrylic and gold leaf

clock wise & upside down peek

AB89 "Tangerine Passages"45.5x50.5 cm

AB81 "Thunder Flush" 45.5x50.5 cm

AB72 "Serpentine Fire" 12X26"

Between coats.... up close,

L. AB78 "On the Rock" 12x24"

R. AB75 "Island Glow" 22.5x30 cm

First few coats of...

AB77 "Streaking Through the Bay" 12x14"

AB84 "Storm Brewing" 8x8"

AB83 "Twilight Point" 8x8"

AB74 "Strait Horizon" 12x12"

One of the prep stages.

AB86 "Midas Reach" 40.5x60.5 cm

* work in progress

AB86 "Luninaria" 45.5x50.5 cm

* work in progress

Currently showing 13 completed works at "The Chroma Divas" Exhibit, April 1 - 30 @ the White Rock and Region Arts Council Gallery, Windsor Square, South Surrey.

Tuesdays though Saturdays 10 to 4:30

"Koy" acrylic on canvas board

2010-03-30T15:19:00.006-07:00

The work itself ... image 14x18"

Mounted on plywood, optional!

Going Global!

2010-03-01T13:11:00.002-08:00

photo Alex Browne

click on image to enlarge

"On the Edge"

2010-03-01T10:05:00.003-08:00

mixed media, 16x20"/24x36"

on stretched canvas

(clear) Details bellow

Find more works, bio, artist statement, exhibits...

@ Archives

"Pas de deux"

2010-03-01T10:02:00.003-08:00

in progress...

Mixed media 16x20"/24x16"

*** The opacity of the "flat" varnish (almost as much as the high gloss)

alter the foto image results...

"WITHIN"

2010-02-05T10:00:00.003-08:00

"Whitin" or "Focused" (can't decide!)

22.5x26" mixed media/goldleaf

The INTERCONNECTED Series

2010-01-30T16:50:00.002-08:00

"Interconnected" One

watercolour - paper batik

image 8 3/4 x 11 3/4"

"Interconnected" Two

8 3/4 x 11 3/4" watercolour paper batik

"Interconnected" Three

8 3/4 x 11 3/4" watercolour paper batik

"Interconnected" Four

8 3/4 x 11 3/4" watercolour paper batik

Celebrating our Interconnections

The unfolding understanding of our interconnectedness – at all levels - is still in the early stages of research and discovery; as we continue learning “the extremes” by which we are an integral part of one another, light is further being shed on how we, mostly “unconsciously” influence/affect (nurture, mold, destroy, etc.) each other, our immediate environment and much more...

I have recently been adopted in a formal – yet contemporary and urban native ceremony - which brought forth the evidence, as with everything else, how similarities far exceed our differences.

The “Interconnected” Series began spontaneously, flowing out of feelings and thoughts associated with the nature of the above mentioned event and a number of rather exuberant memories, among them, David Suzuki's passionate description of air circulation around the planet, how my breath (my “self”, my millennian-full “biology”) exhaled here, is a breath taken in by someone else, seven days later somewhere in Africa... And, so on. Just imagine!

"Miss Stereotype" series and its secrets

2010-01-30T16:49:00.003-08:00

"Miss Hortense Hoity"

"Miss Sally Sour"

"Miss Miriam Mysterious"

"Miss LaSavannah Saucy"

"Miss Darlah Darling"

"Miss Sadie Shady"

“MISS STEREOTYPE”
Stereotype or Archetype?
While honoring our instincts is imperative for a sane survival, how often are these first “impressions” accurate? How much do our preconceptions influence the outcome of our relationships/fleeting interactions?
The “MISS STEREOTYPE” Portrait Series, as well as “the girls” names were given deliberately, to clearly define what is that they represent.... However, do they? Perhaps, there might be room for other “truths”, – as with everything else there are always at a minimum four more options! @2008

2010-01-30T16:49:00.001-08:00

Update - January 22.09

Happy to present:

Blank Note Cards from the "Miss Stereotype" series

click on pic to enlarge

Something "New" for me... Blank Note Cards!

The series will be shown along with selected works

at Semiahmoo Library in Surrey

March 1 - 31, 2010

2010-01-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

In a league of its own...

"Bell lap" - 11.5x15.5" watercolour

"EARTH" Series

2010-01-30T16:47:00.002-08:00

"Earth" Two, Series A - 8.75x11.75" watercolour

(Currenlty on display @ Semiahmoo Library Branch until March 31, 2010)

"Earth" one, minis series - 5.5 x 7.5" watercolour

"Earth" two, minis series - 5.5 x 7.5" watercolour

This ongoing “EARTH” Series is a natural and spontaneous expression of my deep love and enchantment with her many gentle and soothing offerings, my preoccupation with her intriguing and often ravaging beauty; her joys, pains, sorrows, her moodiness oftentimes resulting in catastrophic outbursts, the ruthless pilferage and the unending myriad of horrors inflicted upon her... @2008

* Please click on "Older Posts"

to continue viewing other works...

For the Sheer Energy of it!!!

2010-01-30T16:46:00.000-08:00

"Nautilius Eye"

6X8" watercolor

"Sheer Energy"

6x8" watercolour

"Spiralling"

14x18" watercolour paper batik

Flights of Fancy - Moods, Energies and Perceptions

2010-01-30T16:43:00.001-08:00

"Broken Samba" Raw, series of Three

8.5x11.75" watercolour batik

"Sucked In" Raw, series of Three

8.5x11.75" watercolour paper batik

"Hip-Hop Jungle" Raw, series of Three

8.5x11.75" watercolour paper batik

"Rocharch Chroma" diptych - watercolour paper batik

"Rocharch Chroma" right side

"Rocharch Chroma" - left side

"Water" - 8.5x11.75" watercolour paper batik

"Churning Waters" - 8.5x11.5" watercolour paper batik

"Infinite possibilities" 7x9" watercolour paper batik

(Currenlty on display @ Semiahmoo Library Branch until March 31, 2010)

Something to think about...

2010-01-30T16:40:00.000-08:00

"Inside the Box"

6X8" watercolour paper batik

"Paz"

10.5X13.5" watercolour paper batik

2010-01-30T16:35:00.000-08:00

"Purple Prosesion"

16x20" watercolour batik

.
"Playfull Labyrinth"

16x20" watercolour batik, $169.00

2010-01-30T16:33:00.000-08:00

"Revisiting the 70's" - 8.74x11.75" watercolour paper batik

"Arabesque" - 8.75x11.75" mixed media paper batik

"Chagalaga-Choo!"

8.5x11.5" watercolour paper batik

"Mayan Mod"

8.5x11.75" watercolour batik

"Ethnic Dreamin' "

8.5x11.75" watercolour batik

Young Heart series

2010-01-30T16:30:00.001-08:00

"Dream a little stream" 8.75x11.75" watercolour paper batik

"Sapo cancionero"

8.75x11.75" watercolour paper batik

"Dream a Little Dream"

8.75x11.75" watercolour paper batik

"Somethin' fishy s goin on"

16x20" watercolour batik

"Childhood Chapel"

11.5 x 15" watercolour

"Meditation" series

2010-01-30T16:25:00.001-08:00

"Harmony Space"

8x14" watercolour batik

"Sacred Tribal Space"

8X14" multi-media/watercolour paper batik

"Aqua"

8X14" multi-media/watercolour paper batik

"Blue"

8X14" multi-media/watercolour paper batik

The Triangle was an inevitable image choice; I love threes and the asymmetry it brings to any space/situation.
Three/trilogy, a sacred number which “constructive/light side”, presents the vibrations of artistic expression, the joy of living, freedom from worry, optimism, inspiration, talent and imagination. Good taste, sociability, friendliness, kindness.

The Heart, a clear choice as it represents love, most of us are appreciative of what a heart conveys, in our popular culture.

The Circle had to also be included as a major component of all that relates to me, and all I relate to … There is something about it that reminds me of a warrior’s shield. While working with it, I felt a deep/primitive call back to the basic - the genetically encoded “tribal” ways… in the very quiet of the moment I could even hear the rhythmic beat of the drums... or, it was just my heart?

The colours, a favorite progression summon immediatetly Colour and Chakra energies.

The gold, silver and copper leaf icon at the bottom, was placed there to quietly reinforce the larger image/passage/meditation – as a grounding “force”… Gold, being a sacred hue, contributes also its power of illumination, love, self-esteem, courage and passion. Also light, sun – solar magic and fire, as well as prosperity and wisdom. Silver, the Moon Goddess! Copper...

*To view more works,

past exhibits, bio, etc.,

continuo on by clicking on "older posts"

Lantern Festival - August 30 - Hollad Park - Surrey, BC. A Fun Community Project

2008-09-01T11:51:00.014-07:00

OCTAVIA and LITTLE OCTAVE

(Blue Ring Octopuses)

The "Octopedes" Installation in situ

for the Wandering Angels Lantern Festival and its journey

click on pic to enlarge

. Work Station No.52... or, did just felt like it?

Enjoyed the detail... oh, let me just say it - the glitter stuff!

eight days to go...

Three days to go. "The Dream Team": Tim, Kaitlin, Jessica and Tyrell
helping glue on the countless rings... :) Thank you!

"The Dream Team": Karen - Thank you!

"The Dream Team " : Johnny, that's the spirit - Thank you!
(He gets around on in the scooter seen in background)

Octavia's "enchanted" shell

Little Octave's "enchanted" shell

One of the Artistic Directors and, now "Guardian and Godmother" Carrie Campbell
. "The Dream Team": Juliet, self-labeled "apprentice"
Thank you so much for your support and hours of hands on help,
including seaweed lantern making, when we could have been down at the beach!

Proud "mom"

The actual breathtakingly beautiful little critter - the blue ringed octopus - that inspired it all
all 2 and 1/2" of it! - A Google search pic!

my lantern... a little closer to the truth - lol!
.

This is another experience that came to an end, bringing with it new knowledge, acquaintances, friendships and all sorts of possibilities .

I learned how to do/work with paper-mache and lost my fear of chicken wire about three weeks into it, as well as realizing that glue was truly a friend! lol

Once that "hesitation" overcome, the road was clear for the "people/community" experience... how wonderful to be able to gather just to "build" - a lot of layers go into that word at this time as I observed and experienced that a lot more than lanterns were being built in that studio that at times turned out to be tiny and overflowing with hard working people of all ages; exploring, creating, anticipating, sharing, giggling and just being overjoyed by the finished projects of one another.

Great Project - all around - Thank you for all the efforts and support of your staff, for the opportunity and, last but not least congratulations City of Surrey for taking the step to create, what I hope will be a "growing into the park" yearly event!

(In a week or so, I will be removing this post and placing it in the "August 08" archives for it to be accessed with all the other Wandering Angels Lantern Festival posts.)

2008-09-01T11:49:00.012-07:00

My "OCTAVIA" - the octopus latern,

on the front page of The NOW

You could have knocked me over with a feather!

Oh... yes!
If you think I am making a big deal out of it, I am.
Front page and, "good news" ?

* click on image to enlarge

even found a box by the beachon Sunday, one copy left - never noticed it before! lol.

. .
.
.
.
I found out at during the Festival last night that Octavia was also on the cover of

The 24 Daily ... I know....!!!!

Some candid moments at the Studio

2008-09-01T11:11:00.005-07:00

The Octopus lanterns: Octavia and Little Octave

2008-08-31T14:45:00.007-07:00

It has definitely been an experience engineering aaaaall the arms particularly, the ones to be holding up the "enchanted shells"

got a little bit of coverage by The Surrey Leader ... :)

http://www.bclocalnews.com/surrey_area/surreyleader/lifestyles/27290814.html

Working on the octopus lanterns - Looove some good pres!

2008-08-27T23:04:00.004-07:00

http://www.bclocalnews.com/surrey_area/surreyleader/lifestyles/27290814.html

Octopedes "Octavia and Little Octave" lantern Istallation

2008-08-22T12:19:00.014-07:00

Taking a little rest from feverishly working to have Octavia, Little Octave and their priced shells completed...

See you at Holland Park! North Surrey - accross from King George SkyTrain Station

There is lots of magic in store to delight everyone!

Festival starts at 6:00PM, Saturday August 30

Of course..., it is NOT going to rain!

MISSING CHILDREN and The Secret Behind the Painting "SURREAL MOMENT"

2008-04-02T23:35:00.001-07:00

"Surreal Moment" 9 x 9" acrylic - donated

When I stumbled upon the Honor With Art Project I immediately knew I had to participate – it all tied in with my strong believes.
This a project dedicated to the cause of missing and exploited children through works of art. Shawn Marie Hardy’s, mine and, I am sure it is safe to assume, all (100?) others that have joined her, hope to jointly bring awareness and keep it alive through this artistic, creative process.

Shawn was interviewed by Nancy Grey on CNN - April 08

2008-03-07T23:44:00.000-08:00

A few Endorsements and fresh Reviews ...

..... " "We are all exiles from the First Eden, we can never go home again, the cherubims with flaming swords will deny us entry. But we can take a journey to a secondary but real Eden constructed by aesthetic magic. Alicia's Paper Batik Paintings are a tantalizing hint of that Second Eden. Her pictures have the quality of Eve-before-the-Apple innocence, there are no complicated serpent images, no odd fig leaf shapes.
The paintings are the dreams that Eve dreamt when she was still a rib. The colours shout the joy of an Adam roused from his slumbers. And the colours are baptismally fresh, Eve white fusing with Adam yellow, twig brown growing into a bud green, moon silver welcoming a twilight grey. The Batik lines are the rope of a nine year old girl skipping in a secret garden she has accidentally discovered. And as I look at the paintings posted on her blog, I say in my heart, "Yes, I know Eden again, but now as a sophisticated paradise, not a naive one and in knowing it discover it was never at any moment totally absent from us!" (Chad Walsh)
Alicia aka Angel is that cherubim who sheathed her sword to take up the paint brush................Amen & Amen!" - Kianseng, 22 February 07,

"Ah you are enjoying life dearest Angel ! We experience your joy and freedom through your work." - Rauf, March 24.07,"

"They are so cheerful, so bright.. flowing, alive. I look at them and I simply smile... feeling lighter. I think they are radiant!" - Katie, March 24.07

"Pretty awesome. I love it, Angel Dust. You down a beauty with "Arenosa"". November 18, 2006 - JQ/United Kingdom

"It's even lovelier in reality and it did look awesome on the screen.
You can rest easy now. I'm going to find an amazing frame for it."
November 17,2006 - AM/Ontario, Canada

"You have evolved as a person and as an artist. Imagination talent and creativity was already there in you Angeldust. Your confidence level has gone up due to your new way of thinking and you have emerged as an excpetional artist." November 16, 2006 - R/India

"I love the painting Alicia. It is splendid. I was so thrilled to receive it yesterday, and escaped squeal made it's way out when i saw it :)
Lovely, truely. Thank you. Can't wait to frame it!" October, 14, 2006 MK/Saskatchewan, Canada

Sat, 10 Mar 2007
Subject: Look at my post today.....
(Mimi does it again - with music this time!)

Sunday Blog Chatter Part One: Studio Galeria
Sunday, November 19, 2006 - ML/United States - global acces

Sunday Blog Chatter : Angels and Art
Sunday, October 29, 2006 - ML/United States - global access

AngelDust and the Peace Globe Meme
Saturday, October 24, 2006 - ML/Unites States - global access
.
.

Local Press June 14.07

2008-03-07T23:43:00.000-08:00

Artist: Painter ~ Designer ~ Photographer ~ Writer
My hugely reduced BIO

I was born in South America, where I lived in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Montevideo, Uruguay until moving to Canada in 1969.

My main occupations were that of Simultaneous Interpreter, Translator, Consultant, Language Instructor and “Community Leader at Large” .

Painting and writing have been my eternal passion along with photography and almost anything creative that captures my attention and keeps me grounded – such as jewelry design and furniture refinishing, etc. …

I have indulged in my creative/artistic expression off and on throughout the years. At one point, I produced consistently enough to show and sell privately, as well as, in the mid/late 70’s, at the renowned (former) Agghazi Gallery of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

My medium throughout, has almost exclusively been oil, but in the past five years I have taken courses in acrylic and watercolour, which, currently I can’t leave alone.

After more than twenty years of on and off again painting, I recently made myself the commitment to paint “full time” from now on – this IS IT. I will also continuo with my other complementing passions of jewelry design and writing.

I am also still available to give Talks and Workshops - by request only at this point - on a number of Self-Help topics relating to personal growth and development, thus reaching out to others and sharing my life experiences and findings… life as art/art as life.

Please also visit:
* Jewellery Design
* Writing
* Photography and "tutti-frutti"
* Workshops and Talks
* Self-Help

2008-03-07T16:19:00.002-08:00

April 18 - June 2

International Mail Art Project "Sport & Arte"

Galleria d'Arte della Associazione "E.ART"

Civitanova Marche,

Italy

~ * ~PAST EXHIBITS, EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

May 22 - 30

Muestra Bicentenario

El Hormiguero - Espacio Cultural

La Plata

Argentina

May 2 - 30

The Terra Studios Mini Expo

selections from StudioGaleria and Terra Talismans

at Ocean Park Library Showcase,

Surrey, BC

~ * ~

April 15, 2010

Virtual Contest

AIBACC - Asociación Internacional de Barcelona

Arte y Cultura Contemporánea

Barcelona,

Spain

~*~

March 2010 2 - 31, 2010

Solo Art Exhibit

Semiahmoo Library

South Surrey, BC

Canada

~ * ~

March 9 - 31

Group Exhibit

"AvisArte 2010, Sumamos más vida"

Foyer of Loteria Nacional de México

Avenida Juarez 101

Mexico City,

Mexico

~ * ~

February 1 - 27, 2010

Selected Works - Solo Art Exhibit

White Rock Library

White Rock, BC

Terra Talismans

January and February 2010

@ Surrey's Semiahmoo Library Showcase

"Contemporary International Art II" Group Exhibit,

now, in Argentina

January 8 - February 19, 2010

International Art Fair,

November 13 - December 18 .09

Baraka Exhibition Salon,
Rosario, Sante Fe

Artist @ Work

A unique Art Show and Sale

at the

Semiahmoo Library

October 24, 11AM – 4PM

"Contemporary International Art II"

Group Exhibit in Argentina

September 4 to October 2.09

Ideal Theatre, Provincial Cultural Centre,
Venado Tuerto, Santa Fe
~

July 10 - 24, 2009

at
The Museum of the Americas
"International Contemporary Artists II"
Group Exhibit

Doral, (Miami) Florida

Earth Day 2009

Wednesday, April 22

all day celebration at

The Terra Studios

Terra Talismans

April 2 - 30, 2009

Showcased at Semiahmoo Library

200-1815-152 Street,

South Surrey, BC

Terra Talismans - Jewelry with Purpose at

Spirituality and the Arts

- For the non-religious -

First United Church of White Rock

Sunday, April 19.09

3:00 - 7:00PM

Exhibit New "Semiahmoo Magic" series

and the "Miss Stereotype" series
January 13 through February 28, 2009

~ Extended to the end of March ~

White Rock Museum and Archives

by the pier on Marine Drive and Martin, West Beach

"Official Launch of Terra Talismans'

Special Event in my heart
Exhibit - Opening - Meet the Artist

University Women's Club of Vancouver
by Invitation only - let me know if you like to attend!
March 1, 2009
2:00 - 3:30PM

Exhibit/Sale

New "Semiahmoo Magic" series

and the "Miss Stereotype" series
January 13 through February 28, 2009

~ Extended to the end of March ~

White Rock Museum and Archives

on the Promenade,

by the pier on Marine Drive and Martin, West Beach

March 1-25
University Women's Club of Vancouver
Vancouver, BC

Open House

Saturday and Sunday - Nov. 29 & 30
11:30Am - 7:00PM.
The Terra Studios "moved" to
Trishas Artists Place
15237 - 16Ave (East/off 152) South Surrey
.
Officially Open for business:
Monday, December 1st

Second Annual Fall Studio-Galeria

"Open House"

Saturday, October 18, 1:00-4:00PM

~
"Octavia and Little Octave" - The Octopedes Installation
making an encore appearance
at The Night of 2008 Lantern Festival
Dear Lake, Burnaby, BC.
Friday, September 19, 7:30PM

~
"Octopedes" Installation

"Octavia and Little Octave"
Wondering Angels Lantern Festival
Saturday, August 30, 6:00-9:30PM
at Holland Park, Surrey, BC. Canada

"Interconnected" - Solo Exhibit

June 2 - 30, 2008

White Rock Library, White Rock, British Columbia

~
Honor with Art - Group Project
January 2008
International group of 100 Artists unite to compile a multi-media album.
Proceed from its auction will reach various
Missing and Abused Children organizations
~

The Arts as Social and Theological Protest - Group Event
February 2, 2008
First United Church of White Rock
White Rock, BC, Canada
~
Silent Auctions
Fashion Show Fundraiser for South Surrey Women's Centre
November 10, 2007
First United of White Rock Fall Fair
September 29, 2007
White Rock, British Columbia, Canada
~
“Grand Opening” of Studio Galeria
Fall Open House, October 20, 2007
White Rock, British Columbia, Canada
~
International Artist's Day
October 25, 2007
Celebration Open House/ In Studio Activities
White Rock, British Columbia, Canada
~
Poirier Branch Coquitlam Public Library - Solo Exhibit
August 1 to 31, 2007
Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada
~
Terry Fox Library – Solo Exhibit
July 3 to 31 - extended to August 30, 2007
Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada
~
Mural Painting - Group Project
City Commission for the Celebration of the 58^th Annual Festival of the Sea
August 3 to 6, 2007
White Rock, British Columbia, Canada
~

“Artist's Techniques” - Group Demonstration
July 15, 2007
Surrey Arts Centre
Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
~

“Flights of Fancy” - partial collection - Solo Exhibit
June 16 to July 16, 2007
“Meet the Artist” Evening
July 5,2007
Java Express Neighbourhood Café
White Rock, British Columbia, Canada
~
“Flights of Fancy” - partial collection – Solo Exhibit
May 2 to 31, 2007
Surrey Arts Council
Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
~

Annual Group Exhibit
November 9 to 11, 2006
Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino
Cloverdale, British Columbia, Canada
~

“Western Canada Tour” - Solo Photography Exhibit
August 1 to September 30, 1998
Fraser Health Unit
Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada

2008-03-06T18:40:00.000-08:00

Festival of the Sea, 2007

"Mermaids at Play"
East Beach Mural, White Rock, BC, Canada

in Celebration of the 58th Annual Festival of the Sea
=

Group work by local Artists, alphabetically:

Alicia M. Balogh Ballard - moi...

Nicci Lanthier Battilana

Joanna Bevis

click on pics to enlarg

=The blank canvas

=Day Three - working late

=Letting go... there is always something more to add...
Detail images bellow.
="Sheme" the Mermaid - I'm told she looks like me...

Seriously, what are the chances, hm!? he-he-he=

Some detail close-ups bellow... loved working on all of them!

= =
"Sarahmosa" (our fourth artist, absent due to injury),

lovingly symbolized resting on the sandbank

as the distant mermaid
with play-pal...
= == = = = == Some of the scrutiny...
=Darling octogenarian "Lolly" Upton,

the mural's biggest (known) vocal fan...

:)
=

a little bit more bellow...
Original post August 2007

THEOLOGY - ART - SOCIAL COMMENTARY

2008-02-04T17:34:00.002-08:00

Interesting how it all is "theology related"...
Those of you familiar with my sojourns into the field know well how I allow myself to trace the root of a lot of our ills to rigid and outdated/erroneous theology... So, whenever I have an opportunity to share in the fresh "outside the box" thinking of others, I jump at the opportunity.
The weekend was at a minimum a delight - as it was a joy to also hear ideas from prairies' visitor the Rev. Dr. Bob Hoverluck and his soul touching cartoon humor and, a group of local artists sharing our own social commentary/works - loved it all!

Bob Haverluck - outrageous cartoonist/political theologian/humble pastor - sharing wisdom through the images and words of his cartoons - and his engaging, gentle and warm discourse.
-
My favorite of his originals on exhibit - still available for sale!
- James L. Adams - encouraging us to share our (so very individual) perceptions on his work...
The invisibility of "women of a certain age" and, the moment "before the inevitable".
-
Margaret McLaughlin with her take on a local group of "Raging Grannies" and, on the right - "homelless-nes" depicted in a now all familiar to all back alley cardboard dwelling...
-
Don Hutchinson and to the left Musician/Poet ......... (?) Never again in my life I will look at a pottery item the same way! Don gave soul/life to clay and meaning to the "hollow spaces protected by it" ...
www.langara.bc.ca/creative-arts/publishing/prm/2001/downtoearth.html
=

Dehai Wang - an accomplished artist and inventor, showing us his very original invention already popular in China - the mobile frame... now we can hang'em form the ceiling

it got us artists all speculating and finding uses for it as soon as it is available in our market!

Deborah J Putman explaining to us how her own journey/spiritual quest brought about this mixed media installation, up for the visit of the Dalai Lama a couple of years ago.

The work embracing all mayor religions - and those not so recognized - in a circle that includes a walking labyrinth as well as multicultural/discipline musical accompanyment... a truly Sacred Space!

http://www.deborahputman.com/
=

=
Moi, sharing on how "the girls" came about; feeling compelled to comment on not only how prevalent and acceptable it is in our society to pass judgement, but also how cruel it is to either covertly or overtly act on such most likely erroneous assessments...
=
I love the slight shifts in thinking and feeling that come about gently, in the company of independent minds

The weekend event - "The Artist's Re-reading of the Bible as God's defense of the world"

was organized by the White Roch First United Church

The secret behind the paintings...

2008-01-11T19:11:00.000-08:00

=
=

It was not until Alex Browne Art Editor at the Peace Arch News (also known as Alexander Browne, the playwright) asked me about "the meaning" behind my paintings, while interviewing me for a newspaper article last Spring, introducing the "Flights of Fancy" collection, that I gave that angle a serious thought.

As I looked at each one of the paintings in preparation for the interview, I recalled the state of mind, soul an body I found myself in when painting them, I realized (to my surprise!) that there was indeed a "secret life" to them... a meaning deeper than "met the eye" and even I was aware of at the time.

While they all were indeed products of "flights of fancy" (free, spontaneous expressions) they were all emotion leaden and an absolute metaphor for life - the life passage I was transversing at the time...

As it appers that it appears the whirlwind of activity is slowing down and I will be focusing almost entirely on the "Sacred Feminine" project, I will make time and re-post each work individually with an explanation of its "origin and meaning".

It will be interesting to hear what your take is!

the secret behind the painting "WITHIN"

2008-01-11T19:05:00.000-08:00

Unlike the rest of the paintings in the “Flights of Fancy” collection, this one took the longest “to mature” experiencing all the “rites of passage”, perhaps becoming one of the most poignant of metaphors yet.
I was going through the strong “circle and spiral and earth phase” when I began, as with the others, attempting to find a way to express my feelings; on this occasion to “pretend looking out to the world/earth from a secret, distant vantage point” …
It was not meant to be…
Through the months and, the many stages/attempts, I began noticing that this work was clearly telling me that it was all about looking in, not out.
It definitely had an intent of its own!
I began with a watercolour and ended up with a gold leaf mixed media piece – neither before nor after - that clearly shows the vantage point narrowing into the subject, not vise-versa… granting a rich glimpse “within”.

Within, I found a distinct focus, a horizon/resting place, with all sorts of life energy surrounding and flowing about. Just as with inner life…

A deep red solid land mass just a quarter way up into the circle, symbolizes/provides the power from the earth and gives energy on all levels.
The yellows/ambers, rising above indicating the rebirth of the day with the warm rays of the sun, connects us to our mental self.
The luscious greens, representing nature in its glory - all surrounding/cocooning - connecting us to unconditional love and balancing our whole being.
The luminous blues bring us a pacifying and great relaxation effect, as well as connecting us to our unconscious self, giving us the experience of being part of the whole universe.
The purple connects us to our spiritual self, bringing guidance, wisdom and inner strength.
The circle, a sacred hoop/ring; ancient and universal symbol of unity, wholeness, infinity; the goddess, and female power - the feminine spirit or force, the cosmos or a spiritualized mother earth, and a sacred space.
Last but not least, the gold, a sacred hue - symbolically leading “within” – crowning, or gently embracing the experience by contributing ancient beliefs of illumination, love, self-esteem, courage, passion, light, sun – solar magic, fire. Prosperity, wisdom and the yang …

.
:) AMB

The Secret behind the painting

2008-01-11T19:03:00.002-08:00

"Earth" one

*Sold

There will always be a special place in my heart for this painting... (and, will shamelessly and apologetically admit that I actually do love all my painting....Yeap, I do!)

It is obvious that I have "something really intriguing going on" with the colour blue and all its hues and, what feels like an airiness and translucency that reaches the depth of my soul.

Blue does bring me peace, tranquility (colour of the fifth chakra, of will, choice, self-expression, knowledge) ... yet in this painting it has a very dynamic and almost simultaneous and reversible role that quiet intrigues me as it may suggest in the shapes a duality in the elements it represents.

On the subtle "symbolic/perceptual connection" of this fifth, the "willpower Chakra" is progressing to the maturation of will: from the tribal perception that everyone and everything around you has authority over you; through the perception that you alone have the authority over you; to the final perception, that true authority comes from aligning yourself with the will of the Universe/ the Creator/ God / Ala ............ partially quoted from "The Anatomy of the Spirit" by Caroline Myss

A rather loaded concept to ponder and even more "elaborate to mature to'; which, brings me back to the special feeling this painting gives me - not really requiring words/explanations - it just IS.

This was the first time that I folded and crumpled paper in order to "express/create" together with water and pigments a fleeting glimpse at the deep sensation of what Earth felt/feels like to me.

I used the wet-on-wet technique and I must say, this was a stunning experience to me as once the brush was loaded and the tip touched the water it needed little "guiding", but a whole lot of "maneuvering" of the paper for the paint to flow in the desired directions.

For me, it represents "a miracle" in how puddled and seeped into the paper. I love using this particular "amateur" paper, because it is smooth and when throughly wet is almost like a cloth - although, one must be careful, as it is possible to cause it to tear...

Earth: raw, simple yet multi-dimensional, vibrant... wet! lol
There were three more and just recently a couple smaller in size that began the "Minies Series".

I am sure you will look at them differently form now on... what do they say to you?
=

=

=

*Sold

=

=
=

The secret behind the painting

2008-01-11T19:00:00.000-08:00

"The Chapel",

renamed "Refuge" on Oct. 22, 2007

= Original photo of RC boarding school,

with Mother Superior and all, circa 1956

the warm sunny afternoon

out on the balcony, last year, 2006
=
Version 3

Version 2 - quick 2x3" sketch

Version 3

=
Looking at the works now - a year later - with the exception of the "quick sketch", the other two versions do reflect to some extent the "need for perfection" and "uptightness" implicit in the expected conduct of a Catholic boarding school of the time.

I loved the swimming pool, almost as much as I loved this chapel yet, I have no interest in painting it... it gave me pleasure but it hardly gave me any comfort and refuge.

It is possible that the peace I find these days in "places of worship" (any place of worship, including deep in nature!) comes from those times, those deeply held convictions of safety - the comfortable isolation felt in the silence and alone-ness of the experience in an sacred (empty) building/space.

This chapel was a literal refuge for me, for I could hide in it - choosing the second floor (right above the front door), or choir mezzanine, to escape all the living demons on the grounds!

I was absolutely safe there.

God was taking care of me - or so much I believed, as my only solace was to find a protecting, loving figure even if "ethereal"... I did become a very spiritual child while residing in the institution.

There was a grotto with the Stella Maris virgin behind the chapel, I used to escape there too, with the two resident German Sheppard's - my only living, breathing friends in the "entire world"! I have no desire to paint this one either.

The "Maria Ward Institute" - a bilingual (Spanish/Hungarian) boarding school - had "formal grounds" although, it was originally a Spanish Colonial ranch we had wonderful statues stategically placed about. I don't remember ever running around on the grounds, except on Easter Sundays when we had phenomenal eggs hunts ... :)

A lot of what transpired there came to shape to an astounding degree the person I am today - it is mind boggling how a series of events, situations in childhood can still play an active role in my daily life even today - absolutely mind boggling, but true!

I like the way this building feels/looks; there is something "orderly" about it, trustworthy, despite the neatly (sharply ?) trimmed angular hedges - in clear contrast with the warm ocre colour of the structure and the graciously curved dor and bell cupola convey.

The Secret Behind the Painting

2008-01-11T18:56:00.000-08:00

"Energy"

= =
This is one of the first watercolour paintings that I was attempting, experimenting with in August of 2006.
This is a wet- on - wet execution...
Which brings smiles on as I think about the process.
I wanted to convey the energy and power of the chakras.
=
Although seldom chakra power is referred to as "explosive" power, as I was dipping into these primary colour I was feeling the exploding potency of each colour taking over as it run, puddled and seeped into the paper.
=
At one point they acquired a life of their own and, the red very symbolically "took over", flowing outward to the edges as it "turned" into a golden diffusion.
=
Red is the colour of the first chakra (energy centre) - of beginnings, vitality, courage, self-confidence - everything that needs to be connected, needs the life vitality of red!
=
The spontaneous run off into orange that turned into the lovely golden/amber hues at the ("North and South") edges of the painting represent the second and third chakras - money, sex, power, confidence and self-esteem, clarity, wisdom - this colours connect us to our senses and help remove inhibitions and make us independent and social and, it is believed, they enhance our ability to perceive and understand!
=
This is a small painting that looks and feels, absolutely loaded and huge.
I kept it for myself as one of my signature paintings from the get-go.
It spoke (shouted?) of my deep wants and needs to "explode" into a new life cycle.
I still find myself looking at it in awe and feeling its power prompting me to expand, evolve... it is definitely a strongly motivating and empowering image - as of today, it sits on my desk.
=
P.S.:
I am just beginning to research the symbology allocated to the cardinal points... :)
=

The secret behind the painting

2008-01-11T18:55:00.000-08:00

"Nautilus Eye"

=
While rather different, this watercolour is closely related to the previous one, as I was still exploring the intense vibrancy of the chakra's primary colours but, with what will come to be a reoccurring theme in my work - the spiral ... an ancient symbol of evolution, one of the oldest pagan symbols in existence. It represents the cycle of the seasons and the cycles of Life, growth and change. Although each loop of the spiral brings us back to the same place, it takes us to a higher and more evolved level at each turn.

In this case, I began painting from the "dark eye/centre" (Eight Chakra for some) of the imaginary energy spiral. I felt it was the only way to apply colour/energy in this work; from the dark recess of the deep centre to the sharp light and vibrant openness at the edges - such is our imagination/perception, always allocating places for things and symbols, people, etc. ...

Purple is the colour that took centre stage for me. Purple represents the seventh Chakra - our relationship with the divine, beauty, creativity inspiration. Purple enhances artistic talent and creativity.

The blue, and the green in particular (as well as in "Energy") have come to be strongly represented. Blue symbolizing intellect, wisdom, intuition, mysticism, understanding and the green love, forgiveness - balance self control.

Orange was, somehow in this case, perceived as a gift of life, warm embracing gentleness .... (prominent in another way in "Energy)

It is not an accident that these colours came about in the measure they did; I have been in a quest of evolving into a better human being, one with boundless love, understanding and forgiveness...

Forgiveness being something that I practice, and practice, and practice and don't seem to master to any satisfactory degree, as sometimes I surrender and state: God may forgive them... I obviously can't. This, actually has more to do with my inability to "forget" than forgiving - because I believe in my mind and heart that I do, yet, I am filled with doubts when I do not want to be around certain people ever again in my life!

Which, brings me to having to accept that I am not perfect, and in need of a couple more re-incarnations to get it all right! lol

I also kept this one as "my other original signature painting"...
I named it "Nautilus Eye" simply because I made an "almost" subconscious association with the shell, and therefore saltwater, and a huuuuuuuuuuge number of other "impressions" relating to the spiral and water...
If you look carefully at how the colours flowed into one another , you cannot avoid thinking of water and.... the interrelatedness of it all!

2007-10-07T17:26:00.001-07:00

STUDIO VISIT
A number of members of the White Rock-South Surrey Newcomers Club chose to visit yesterday my Chantico StudioGaleria as this month's activity...
It was a lovely and lively couple of hours and I am looking forward to many more visits of this sort!
Thank you ladies!

2007-10-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

Just finished and framed!

"Within" - mixed media 22 x 26" - frame

Moving forward.
Originally posted on June 7.07
=

2007-10-07T16:23:00.000-07:00

-
A Personal Invitation

is extended to you for the cyber-tour preview of the works (click on image to enlarge) of The “Flights of Fancy Collection” of watercolours - for the young and the young at heart - painted between July 2006 to early 2007, will be on Exhibition and Sale throughout the Lower Mainland - with a modified schedule - during the Spring and Summer months of 2007, as per the five different venues displayed bellow.
Also Available for Sale and *Pre-Sale on line.

=
These paintings reflect not only my spirit and eclectic background, but also, a playful and mischievous side that most of you are familiar with and know I believe we all must indulge in from time to time!
.

Should you live or happen to be in the area, I would love you to drop in for a personal viewing at one, or all of them! I must admit that some of the colours are off - particularly those of the diptych.

* For terms of sale, please scroll down.
=

2007-09-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

"Artist of our Wonderful City Unite"

Great intro tittle by Editor...

thanks for publishing the letter!
=

click on image to read

2007-08-19T10:40:00.000-07:00

The mural got started
=

large empty canvas......

= Sheme's sketch in progress
=

view du jour

2007-08-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

Working out the details...

A photo is terribly helpful to suggest the path to follow

=
A little bit of tracing paper layed over it, and voilá!
=

2007-08-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

A couple of rejects

Day Six

Day five

"Sheme's" original sketch

And, the Universe manifested our famed Tony O'Reagan

on Sunday (our last day) morn' by phone request of his brother:

"Come and meet a fellow artist..."

"They are painting the outhouse down at East beach... " lol

Tony also teaches Art at our very own Emily Carr Institute, Kwantleen College,

and other illustrious places...
=
Above, tweaking (by request) my stiff seagulls ...

Artists at play....

Finally, I got my wish of a belly ring!!!
=
I wish to thank each and every tourist and White Rock-ian that took the time to stop and share their opinion and express support, photograph us in all sort of contorted and "restricted" positions, all those drivers that hollered out their windows in approval and the children... ahhh, the children...
.
Thanks to the powers to be - Mat Todd - our City Councillor, Chair of this year's Festival of the Sea Committee and its members, City workers and, our "temporary neighbours" for welcoming us minutes into unloading out ladders on the first day for their warmth, and daily encouragement and joyful expressions and the ever so refreshing daily ice cream, courtesy of Heaven's angels Gelatto..
=
Last, but not least to three year old Ryan, whom after standing there in a silent pause enunciated very clearly and succinctly (to all our surprise, parents included) "This is a perfect painting".
=
Will be writing in detail with more pics sometime this week in
my www.MischiefAngel.blogspot.com
=

= Oops! Almost forgot Mt. Baker - it also got a lot of comments upon completion.

2007-08-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

In Today's Issue of SURREY NOW,

taken last friday...

click on it to enlarge

2007-07-20T09:47:00.001-07:00

Peace Arch News, Wed. July 18

Beach washrooms say goodbye to white walls
By Laura Baziuk Black Press

Those visiting the public washrooms at White Rock beach this summer will see a work of art in progress.
During the Spirit of the Sea festival, two teams of local artists will cast seaside paintings on the exteriors of the White Rock East and West Beach public washrooms.
Visitors on West Beach can watch the mural in action by painter Elizabeth Hollick and her team, while artist Joanna C. Bevis and her team depict a scene of mermaids at play on the East Beach washrooms.
“It creates a celebration of creativity and colour and culture in our beautiful seaside world,” said Bevis, who goes by the artist name OJO and is no stranger to murals.
In addition to Bevis, a number of local artists – Nicci Battilana, Sarahmosa, and Alicia M. Balogh Ballard – make up her East Beach team.
“It’s fun for the city seeing great art in the community,” she said, adding she would love to see mural painting turn into a regular festival event and become interactive for the public so passersby can grab a brush and paint in their own expressions.
East Beach and West Beach washrooms get their mural makeover through Saturday and Sunday during the Spirit of the Sea festival, which takes place Aug. 3, 4 and 5.