Art In The Iron Works

Art in the Iron Works
An Innovative Art Gallery in Hawaii
http://artintheironworks.com

An Innovative Art Gallery overlooking Hilo Bay on the Big Island of Hawaii. We are located on the second floor of the historic Hilo Iron Works building. Our exhibits includes all media. We focus on the finest selection of artists and our changing venue showcases amazing talent. From the ambience to the art – an experience not to be missed.

We offer ongoing and special workshops and often in conjunction with our exhibit we feature art films or a special event and host the Hawaii Island Writers Salon (every third Friday. Often we present some very unique “Happenings” So be sure to Check the website “Events Schedule” for the most up to date and detailed information.

This East Hawaii art gallery offers a unique view of Hawaiian artists and their artwork. Artist’s displays are complimented by the historical Hilo Hawaii building. Art lovers will enjoy new art show openings and artistic class opportunities on Big Island Hawaii.

About Art in the Iron Works
STEEPED IN HISTORY

The Historic Iron Works Building was designed By Charles William Dickey. CW Dickey bestowed upon Hawai`i a remarkably rich architectural heritage. As the long list of his designs would attest, he is noteworthy by any criteria: variety, quantity, quality. His legacy includes many of the buildings which, today, are considered among Hawai`i’s best architecture.

Located at the confluence of the Wialoa River and picturesque Hilo Bay, the building is steeped in local history. Having survived 2 major tsunami’s, it was at one time used as an infirmary for the tsunami victims. The building was designed as an office for the Hilo Iron Works that was established to build the railroad for the booming sugar cane industry. The outlying buildings were used as a Pinapple cannery.

Art in The Iron works gallery opened in this historic building on April 18th, 2004. Since it’s inception it has featured 9 major exhibits of local artists. Our goal is to promote beauty in the world and bring communities together using the arts as our language.

Contact:

Art in the Iron Works
1266 Kamehameha Ave
Hilo, Hawaii 96720

808- 935-2300

Artist's:

Beverly Jackson, Bob Dittbenner, David Hubbard, Elfie Wilkins, Elizabeth Miller, Eve Furchgott , Henry Bianchini, Hope Northway, Laura McDonnell, Margaret Godfrey

PRESENT EXHIBIT: Raymond Clement, Reva Collins, Rod Cameron, Suzy Papanikolas, William P. McKnight

"Three Perspectives"
A collection of works by 3 artists.
Opening reception, January 5th from 6-9pm.

Gloria Tinker’s large floral watercolors are imbued with exquisite detail and a unique sense of fantasy. They are “up close and personal.” She is currently an art instructor at Lane Community College in Oregon. Her works are displayed in private and corporate collections throughout the United States and abroad. She paints for commercial galleries, museums and exhibitions from her studio in the McKenzie River area of rural Oregon. In 2006 Gloria made her international debut at, Abbazia Di Novacella, considered the largest cultural center for Art and Literature in Northern Italy.

Ralph Curtis Royer creates earthy and primative large format sculpture and water fountains. He is also a painter. His work has been exhibited throughout California and have been featured in prominant magazines including; Coastal Homes and Sunset. This exhibit will feature 7 of his sculptures in copper and resin and two of his abstract paintings.

Adrienne Dooling recently moved to the mainland, via Hawaii from Dingle Ireland where her works were featured in many fine art galleries. Four of her abstract oil paintings, inspired by the energy of the sea will be on exhibit. Also a collection of watercolor prints inspiried by her time spent living and teaching in Hawaii will be available.

Workshops

* January 2007 Event Schedule
* WATERCOLOR CLASSES January 3rd -31st. Feb. schedule to be announced
* LIFE DRAWING (changes)

Kathy Ostman-Magnusen | kathysart.com

It is never ending this magic that I love and fills my soul with music.

I dream of, whimsical angel pictures, legends of mermaids and fairies in art. Tiny angels whisper fantasy art, these innocent angels guide me. I also paint fantasy art of exotic women.

I began my career at four years old, in the back seat of my parents car, as they travelled the countryside. I have been exhilarated and tormented by art ever since. I wake up in the morning and go to bed at night thinking about it.

I paint and sculpt women primarily; in their daily lives, in lives they might be afraid of, and in lives they wish they had. My goal has always remained the same; to hear them breathing and to know the passion I feel in my soul is met by theirs.

In every single one of my paintings my objective is to 'know them' . To let each one reveal their own vision or message. I am often astounded as their presence unfolds & I am met with who they are. I then realize that who 'they' are, defines me as well. My hope is that my paintings & sculptures relate to you, their audience & that they give you the message you need for your own heart and soul.

Awake from dawn til dusk I paint and sculpt female fantasy art and map faery tale adventures. Free poems, whimsical musicians artwork, fantasy art of exotic women, & a bit of fairy advise fill my website. I offer free gifts and treasures to tiny angel fans.

I illustrated for Hay House Inc.,"Women Who Do Too Much" CARDS taken from Anne Wilson Schaef's book. I also illustrated for Neil Davidson, who was considered for the Pulitzer Prize in feature writing, and several other publications. My painting "Tradewinds in My Hair" is on page 84 in the book "The Spirit of Hula" by Leilani Petranek.

Giclee canvas art work, greeting cards and posters available for sale on my website along with free gifts for signing up for my mailing list.

My paintings and sculptures are collected worldwide.

"Earth Goddess Art | Bed of Dreams"

"Earth Goddess Art | Bed of Dreams"
Greeting Cards,Posters,Giclee Fine Art Prints on my website www.kathysart.com
Sign up for my mailing list and get FREE GIFTS!


I have many blogs. Every one of my series from my "In Search of Klimt" series, which is defined as "Fantasy Art Woman-Beautiful Women Goddess Art," to my endeavors in watercolors of flowers, portraiture, landscapes and animals, has its own blog where I write individual thoughts and feelings on each work. If you read my biography you will see that I spent twenty years making my living with pottery. Working with clay is second nature to me. I have done extensive work in sculpture and continue to enjoy that form of creativity. My work in sculpture thus far can 'only' be seen on my sculpture blog.

Blogs offer a wonderful opportunity for the artist to not only post their work but describe it in great detail. I find that by writing about my own work I discover new things about myself and more about what actually motivated me to do the pieces described. People always tell you to stick with one style, for me that feels impossible. I paint or sculpt all of my different artistic adventures in 'series'; I take each one seriously. Each Series is considered, has its own muse and brings me to a different mind frame than any other. They all stand on their own and yet are connected with my appreciation of the human form and emotional makeup of the people I paint or sculpt. Human beings are complex and no one has one single track of thinking all of the time. So it is with my art and expression.



ARTIST FRIENDS I would like to introduce you to.

I will from time to time be introducing sculptors, painters of passion and lighter fare like my Victorian Series. I will post "Kathysart Notes" after each artist with my feelings about their work. I will also post some of the artists own thoughts as they relate to their personal form of creativity. I have been involved with beautiful women goddess art as some of the artists I will post are. There are many ways to express the world in art though as you will note by going through these artists amazing talents. There is so much creativity in the world. We are surely blessed!

Writers Looking For Illustrators; A Message From An Artist/Illustrator

I was recently asked by an author that if she purchased one of my paintings could she then use it for the cover of her book. It was 'her' painting right?... Wrong!

Let me define an illustrators perspective on marketing their art and writers using their work.

Buying a painting for you house or whatever and using one for the cover of your book are two different things.

Here is an example that might bring this to light:

If you purchased the original Mickey Mouse image for even fifteen million dollars..... you could hang it on your wall, 'that is all'. Obviously, Disney would not allow you to market the image.
Let me reverse this scenario from an authors perspective of getting ripped off:

If I bought an authors original manuscript, lets say someone famous like Donald Trump, to promote my art, for lets say ten thousand dollars, or maybe he had it online and I just copied it off; would it be reasonable for me to receive all the royalties; for both my artwork and the manuscript once published?

Do you think I might get a letter from Mr. Trumps lawyer?

Authors need to bite the bullet. No, they cannot use the artwork of an artist without permission and compensation, not even if they purchased the work to hang in their living room for fifteen million dollars. Authors are not lawfully allowed to use an artists work for promotional material without permission either. That is what copyright laws are all about.

Accept that you need to pay an artist the 'going rate', just as 'you' would expect to be paid. Check out the "2007 Artist's and Graphic Designer's Market' or earlier issues. They should have a copy at your local library. This will give you an education into what an artist expects on many levels as well as insight into publishing.

I have on occasion granted an author the use of my artwork both for the cover and promotion and their book. I have done this when it has appeared to be a potential benefit to me. It is to my advantage to get my name out there. But! On another note, I have collectors of my art and owe them, and myself for that matter, a certain responsibility to keep my prices at least at the level they purchased them at.

People who invest in art do it for two reasons, the first being of course because they like it. The second reason is for investment. They invest in a piece hoping the artist will prosper and that the value of their work goes up. Artists who wheel and deal with their work are usually not at a professional level. so I guess it goes back to getting what you as a writer 'hopefully' pay for.

Aloha Outpost www.alohaoutpost.com

I have about 50 paintings hanging in Aloha Outpost. Lamont is fantastic! Be sure to hunt him down if you ever come to the Big Island of Hawaii. Check out Puna Nation on this website too for some great music. I painted the above logo with the turntable, Lamont, and the volcano with flying disks. Lamont's idea. ~Kathy

The following is info about Aloha Outpost:


The Aloha Outpost is part tomorrow, part yesterday and all of each day. People have described it as “the sandwich joint,” “the information and communication hub”, “friendliest place in town” and “coffeehouse of tomorrow”. Established in 2002, the Outpost now is one of the largest businesses in Pahoa, and still provides that “small coffee shop” feel. Whether you are a visitor or resident, you’ll get the same down home welcome.

If you come to the Big Island of Hawaii and migrate to the Hilo side,
the 25 minute drive to the Outpost is a must!

The origin of the name “outpost” is from LaMont’s former days as a training and development manager for Restaurants Unlimited. “When I was traveling around the country helping open new restaurants “ LaMont explains, “ I would call the home office back in Seattle and say I was reporting from Outpost and use whatever unit number the store was. I guess it’s also a reference to all those westerns I watched as a kid as well. After I thought about it, I also remembered the Stuckey’s Restaurants that were the highlight of many road trips. You would find all kinds of interesting things there.”

“The aloha was somewhat an obvious call,” LaMont also explains. “You have to give back to the island.”


CHECK OUT Puna Nation:

New! PUNA AFTER DARK
Mixing classic Hip Hop, R&B and Rap and Dance, PAD is the nighttime beat of Pahoa. Get the head bobbin’ with us here in the café or anywhere else in the world This is your daddy’s old school. (Parental Advisory is in effect as lyrics in some selections played can be offensive.

ORIGIN OF THE MUSIC
After moving here three years ago, I quickly found out there was no radio station to suit my taste. Since I have DJ experience and do voice-overs, I went to the local radio station to peddle my wares. After hearing nothing I decided to start my own. We play lounge and club music, nothing too strong, just something to tap your fingers and toes to, or to hear in the background as you sip one of our beverages and chill here in the Café. If you listen to us through the internet, relax, close your eyes and imagine that you are here in the groove with us.

Lamont Carrol

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An Interview With Kathy Ostman-Magnusen (Part One)

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When did you first discover that art would be an important part of your adult life?


Several years back I worked at a craft co-op in Santa Barbara. It was the first time I realized that there was real money to be had doing crafts. There was a potter in the co-op who was making consistent sales. My ex husband made me a wheel, we took an Adult Ed night class and learned how to throw. After about the 6th class, during a question and answer session, my ex announced that we were going to make our living doing pottery. The whole room grew dead silent and everyone looked at him stunned with their mouths open...iINCLUDING ME!

We did in fact quit our jobs some 6 months later, moved to the mountains in N. California and did just that.

I just want to interject however that I don't consider the 'production' of anything as art, rather a craft that stems from art.

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How has creating art shaped you professionally and personally?


The souvenir pottery business gave me a lot of know how. One small step at a time while asking A LOT of questions along the way gave me a wonderful education and confidence.

Production pottery, production anything for that matter, is a soul robber. While I gained marketing tools and learned that to achieve my goals I needed to be a self starter, I also realized that money can turn someone into a machine. I painted during all of that time but I did not feel the freedom of expression I have found since I walked away from that business.

Marketing something that is mass produced, even though completely hand made is easier to handle than marketing art, from the heart. You take it pretty personally if someone rejects your soul on canvas. I find myself vulnerable to criticism but because my goal is also marketing my art I accept it. I want my work to get better and criticism is a part of that. I might cry and feel pathetic for a few days but then I press forward. I think I am a more balanced and centered person because of art. I AM also pretty spacie at times but as an artist but I don' apologize for that, it is just me going within.

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How has society influenced your art? Are there any social implications in your art?

Several years ago I was at a crafts fair with my pottery. I had two of my paintings there that I was delivering to a nearby gallery. These paintings were from my "Erotica Series". This series really does not show anything that might offend anyone except for the expression on the face or the setting, i.e. one of my pieces is "Lap Dancer", yet she has her hands over her breasts. The paintings at that show were much tamer than that though. A man came up to me quite upset and wanted me to take the paintings away. I asked him, "Why?" What did he think he was seeing? He had no answer because he was only seeing the suggestion of what he felt was wrong. He became very flustered and walked away. I must confess I kind of got off by toying with him, but that is not the reason I paint my "Erotica Series". I continue adding work to that series because I paint women in all contexts and scenarios and I just don't think sex is a bad thing.

I have many ongoing series; Hawaiian; African; Cosmopolitan; Fairy's and Mermaids; etc. My ethnic paintings have social relevance because history vrs.society is implicated by the subjects expression and attire. An example of this is many of my Hawaiian paintings are taken from historical photos during a very dark period for Hawaiians. They lost their land, their Queen and their culture in one clean sweep. Their faces reflect the emotions that anyone would feel under such oppression. I paint my African Series in a different context. My goal in that series is to paint triumph, pride and strength. My mermaids and fairy's convey the hope for magic that we all long for. I just think we are multi dimensional and should not limit our thinking. We have all struggled in one way or another and should try to relate in some way to others in their sorrow or fresh awakening to fantasy.

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What are your artistic influences? Has anyone inspired you?

Gustav Klimt, I have a series called "In Search of Klimt". I have tons of books that go on sale at Borders or wherever. Da Vinci and Michelangelo live in my house along with all the impressionists. I comb emotional content from anything I see including children's drawings. Art is everywhere and in everything. If a child or even an adult comes to me with a ball point pen drawing there is redemption in it and I look for that. When I find it, I find their heart and mine.

My husband has inspired me a lot because he believes in me and encourages me to create. I have a few friends like my friend and web-master Carrie who encourage and believe in me as well. They aspire to inspire and their gift to me is remarkable.

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Tell me a little about your background. Are your past experiences reflected in the work you do today? If so, how?


I am a self taught figurative artist and illustrator. I believe that talent is passion and desire and the rest is practice. I also feel that anything can be learned from a book and inspiration is found even in a fallen leaf.

As I already said I owned and operated my own souvenir pottery business in Northern California. I had eight contracted workers and one full time shipper. Products were created, hand sculpt, wheel thrown and personalized to meet each clients specific needs. My company shipped to most National Parks, Disney World, J C Penny and over 1000 specialty shops all over the US. After 20 years in the souvenir business I decided to focus on her painting and sculpting.

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How long have you been a working artist?

When I was a little girl I actually peddled my work to neighbors. I have memories of charging my mothers friends a nickel for my theater shows and art lessons for their children.

A true marketing sense came to play when I had my pottery business though.

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If you could pinpoint the characteristics of people who collect your art, what would they be?

I think they relate to my passion. We seem to long for the same rainbow or dream.

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Discuss one of your pieces. (Let me know which one you are talking about."What were you thinking when you created it?

NOTE: I already have an article about 3 pieces posted on Buzzle and Ezine Articles. If you do not want all three then feel free to just pull one example. ~ Kathy



An Artists Journey of Color and Mood
This is a journey of sorts from one frame of mind to another and the colors and moods that guided me. I describe three paintings and their process.

"Anticipation" 36x24 oil on canvas, dated, Sept. 1998 part of my "Passion Series"*
was actually a breakthrough piece for me. I had been painting my "Victorian Series" for months, spending hours on modulating the colors. I paint a lot from photos. My goal with the "Victorian Series" was to put in as many colors in the skin tone as I could. Looking at a photo or life long enough a lot of colors begin to show themselves that normally go unnoticed. Modulating many colors I became frustrated and board after finishing 10 or so of them. I had a canvas that I had painted a dark blue and decided that maybe it would be ok to just play.....and not modulate at all. I found a picture that I liked, studied the colors, filled my brush a fresh for each stroke and applied them to my canvas. I have not modulated since. I continued painting with this color palette naming the series "The Passion Series". I still tried to fit every color in the rainbow on my palette as I do to this day adding small nuances wherever I can. I would add here too that the series before "The Passion Series" was "Hawaiian Legacy" which is predominantly done in sepia, tones.

"I thought I Killed Tony. WAAA! But It Wasn't My Fault After All"

I want to start this out by saying that I have never had bugs or lizards of snakes or anything like that in my house. I am indeed one of those women who screams if I see a spider. I have never liked little crawly things and have always considered the best place for them is outside.

" Well of course!" ... I can HEAR you thinking!

OK... but with all of that said, I live in Hawaii now and the rules have changed considerably.

If you visit Hawaii and stay in a hotel it is not likely that you will come across a gecko in your room. Hotels take special care (like poison) so you will not come across these little critters with suction cups on their widespread toes. Your loss unless you visit someone's home like mine.

I have lived in Hawaii for about nine years now and I have adjusted my thinking more than I would ever have imagined possible. Spiders that I once feared like the common Wolfie Spider is minor to me now. The Wolfie is dwarfed by the Cane Spider and might I just add a scream and an, "EWWW!" here because they are indeed that huge and that awful. Let's not even mention centipedes because I have this theory that whenever I talk about them much, they show up to remind me how horrible they are. I will tell you though, that I have seen them just about 10 inches long. OK, lets not go there. You see what I mean though about the Wolfie being a minor threat in comparison?

I don't spray for geckos like the hotels do nor do I put out those cruel sticky things, that people use for rats and mice, like some of my friends, to protect their computers and stuff. I think those sticky things are inhumane and should be banned. I don't do anything at all about the some 15-20 geckos and I am just guessing here, that live inside my house. YES! I said it and admit to it, they live INSIDE my house. They chirp at night and even sometimes poop on my paintings. After nine years I am indeed used to it and that is my only excuse.

So what about Tony? Who the heck is Tony, are you wondering? You have probably figured out by now that Tony is a gecko that I have chosen to name. I not only named him but allowed him to lick my cup after my nightly hot chocolate treat. This is a terrible habit I have gotten into, that really must go. as I can feel a few extra pounds because of it. Tony loved it though and I must say that I really thought is was the cutest thing ever to see him over the edge of my cup licking away. He had the cutest little tongue.

One night I was out of things to make hot chocolate. Tony sat... humm.. or stood? Well, whatever geckos do, he was there on my bed stand waiting for his nightly treat. I felt bad for his sugar addiction and related so well. I got myself a small handful of chocolate chips and gave Tony his own. He didn't seem to like it as much as the hot chocolate but his tiny tongue did lick it for quite awhile and then off he went.

The next night I made my regular hot chocolate. No Tony. No Tony last night either. WAAA! I told my husband that maybe I killed Tony with chocolate. You aren't supposed to give it to dogs and cats but Tony was already a seasoned addict. Yet, I felt bad. Why did I give Tony that chocolate chip!? It was too concentrated I worried.

We bought a fixer upper and all the electrical sockets are off. My husband discovered poor little Tony just about an hour ago... electrocuted? I kind of hope so. I so hope it wasn't the chocolate chip. WAAA!

Bless little Tony's heart! So funny isn't it how one little creature takes on a personality like none other because we give it special care. If I ever have another gecko come to my bedside for hot chocolate I will name him Tony Two and I will never give him a chocolate chip... just in case.

"Lydia and the Swans That Come Round"

Her soul is dark
She pins her dreams out on a clothesline
waiting for the sun to meet her in a closet
to revive unread plans.

I think she wore a jasmine in her hair
the last time that I saw her.
I can't remember.
I do remember that the swans came round
scolded me
for not accepting second chances.

Lydia had a box of sequins
that she kept inside her pocket.
She was seen sewing them to the moon
and making requests for sainthood.
I stood there in the glow
and admired her confidence.

I felt jealous of her travels
and her boldness.
She told me later that she saw me
standing in the doorway.
I did not tell her I was waiting for approval.

I keep in contact with her
now and then.
I ask her what to wear
and music she has heard
that I might like.
She always tells me I look best in lavender
but I know that isn't true.

I lost her trust many years ago.

We met at a train station
went on a journey.
We had intentions of creating fresh stories
new swan songs.
Well... she did at least.
I was haunted by a confined mind.
I could not think beyond the mermaid
she held captured in a jar.
I guess I related too much.
I could only think of how to free her.

It doesn't really matter
I say that to myself
as I unfold and refold
the pieces of art we made together.

Lydia's eyes are even darker now
that's the rumor.
Yet I will always admire her
and her quest to capture sparrows
unlocked by wings of depraved
but well meaning caretakers.
Lydia claims she means to heal them.


And the mermaid?
She traveled well.
I bring her jasmine in the summer
and gifts of chocolate and green tea.
I keep sequins in the jar she came in
reminding me of train stations
words that could not find their way
and swans that come round.

"Lavender Cloak" from my Victorian Series
available in greeting cards,posters and giclee



We all have a history that includes some regret by a certain age. I think remembering that history is something to learn from. I know if you are reading this that you do too. Yesterday I could not stop crying, yet today because of those tears, hopefully, I will notice someone else's. We get busy though don't we? We fail to see and hear the lives around us as we continue on our own pathways. Blades of grass are crumbled beneath our feet. I wrote "It is not I" so many times because of regret of course. We all hold ourselves in better esteem than someone who has missed an obvious a cry for help. I guess the goal is to do better 'today', to smell the rose sweeter in their honor.

"I Kiss Your Shadow"

It is not I
not in my soul nor heart.
I could not have missed your pitiful tear.
I saw you walk away,
after we spoke,
glances did not know.

I am a swan in spring
my wings deliver different outcomes.
Yesterday I missed the sunrise
but a swans song promises a following day.

Poor flower of mine
how did I miss your message?
Ohhh it was not I.

I wish so much to say
what I should have easily let go
had I known.
I have much to tell you
too late.

Ice blue tints missed thoughtfulness.
It was not I.

I need to go back and start over.
I could have planted flowers
we would both reminisce about tender beginnings
plan bouquets of caring
share emotions that would include possibilities.

My ship is lavender now.
Cold days blend with red roses.
I think of you often
hear forever your calling out for rescue.

I pack a suitcase to go back in time.
I am reproached by my own selfish needs
and not knowing what to do
not knowing what to wear to a young girls funeral.

I think of Lord Byron
a poem I memorized as a young girl
similar days
another friend lost to early frailties.

I whisper those words to you in part:

"And thou art dead as young and fair
as aught to mortal birth;
And form so soft, and charms so rare,
Too soon returned to Earth!
Though earth received them in her bed,
and o're the spot the crowd may tread
in carelessness or mirth,
There is an eye which could not brook
A moment on that grave to look"

Ah yes, so I beheld it not
I beheld them not.
It is not I.

I said those words so often
I bare no excuse at all.
It was not I?

Tender is this day
Colors seem muted
or is it that they are too bright?

Blades of grass remind me of your journey
as I walk I feel you all over again.

Worlds below the grass
things I never noticed.
I cannot bend the colors
nor the blades of grass
their day is set.

I sing only in shadow
now filled with regret.
It was not I.

We had pizza last night for dinner
frozen from the grocery store.
I fed the cats and dog this morning,
heard an airplane overhead,
people going places
living their lives
continuing on.

I think of you often
I remember that last day
and I kiss your shadow.

Yay Democrats! Onward!

Fantasy Art Woman (me) has a new squidoo site for you to check out:

http://www.squidoo.com/kathysart/

Also my regular website is getting a facelift! Stay tuned. There will be free monthly gifts for signing up on my mailing list. YAY!

"The Mask"


Fantasy Art Woman | Beautiful Women Goddess Art |kathysart.com

Coming Soon! Sign up on my comments and receive a free gift!

Be sure to signup for my mailing list I will from time to time offer free magical gifts. I'll also have a bit of fairy advise on mermaid, goddess, whimsical angel pictures, and other fantasy delights, gifts and ideas! Or sign up just to say, "Hi!"

Sign up 'this month' on my mailing list and receive a free printable letter from the tooth fairy. Ahhh yes, I know this tooth fairy well, her name is Dallyanna. She is most eloquent with lavender bows and ribbons attached to tiny pink satin roses on a whimsical sky blue chiffon dress. Her hair is held fast by a wreath of stephanotis and lobelia blossoms found from trees on African mountains where she is often seen traveling. She fills the air with laughter and always makes me happy. Soft fairy dust meets her pathway as mist wherever she flies as one might suspect. Once in awhile she flutters by just to say hello and offer a bit of conversation or to share her love of poetry. We sit at a round glass table topped with a white linen tablecloth and dine on green tea and crumpets. I always have special jams and jellies on hand to impress my dear guest of magic. Dallyanna often advises me on what gifts my friends, like you, might enjoy. We have a splendid time together as she shares legends of mermaids and her adventures of gifting children in exchange for their treasured tiny teeth.

My other gift to you this month is a "legends of mermaids" drawing. You can print it out for cards; transfer it to shrink art and use as a magnet or sun catcher; use it as a coloring page or reduce the size for clip art or stationary accent, just to name a few ideas.

PLEASE NOTE: My gifts to you are available for free use ONLY for non-profit, personal use only, and not to be distributed in any way or form. -Kathy

Future free gifts:

December:
Christmas drawings and a lovely whimsical angel picture

January:
free fairy coloring pages

February:
Valentine Day Images and ideas

March:
fantasy fairy paper dolls

April:
mood magnets (patterns for shrink art)

May:
legends of mermaids drawing

"Quiet The Lips Of An Angel, NO! A Fantasy Art Woman Speaks Out For Fairies Unknown"

It is nonsense to not believe in magic!
To quiet the lips of an angel
is utterly pathetic.
It is lonely without enchantment
no castles
no legends of mermaids
no fairy dust
how sad to not believe in what could be.
What a silly hoax!

Pick up all your numbers
fill up your tent
gather all your consequences
dreams never dreamt.
Figure out a timeline
travel in your loss
sip wine with dinner
look out on the horizon
measure
measure
measure
what you have lost.
But still you will not know
what you have never seen...
right?

It is nonsense to not believe in magic.
You silly man.
Yet for you it is pitifully true
legends of mermaids
whimsical angels
fantasy fairies
will not pause on your doorstep uninvited.

I am a mermaid
I knew I would be when I was young
I felt moisture on my skin
and swam to castles underwater
twas there I captured sailors
just like you.

I am a fantasy fairy
because flowers became my friend.
They taught me what is most important
to not lose site of my imagination
to never stop creating
to caress ideas close to my heart
and cradle them there
to allow them to stretch out their lacy wings
and fly.

I am the dragon
who lived in your closet
when you were young.
I am the smoke.
I am the fire that roars when danger calls me
I am the rescuer of my own story.
You my friend are left to your own fate of disbelief.

I am a swan
I came from distant lands
I stand in waiting for visions
of uninhibited stories.
I wear a crown
of the very same jewels
that you sweat and toil for.

A glorious prince beyond
I become the princess
that walks among the roses.
I smell the scent of bliss
and restore tears to laughter
or reminisce about the broken of heart
I am the lonely soldier
who mourns on unvisited graves.

I collect whimsical angel pictures
they become alive to me.
I can hear them breathing.
The wind rushes through my hair
I linger there and find life
beyond what others measure.

I am the entrance to a vision
the moon inside the dark
colors enlightened
pathways beyond doom
flowers that have found their voice
rainbows of promise
I am a playful tune.

Oh no!
Do not tell me magic is not real
you simply would not know.
Go home and count your change young man
build a mountain if you like.
Surmise and gather what is seen
put it in a bottle
and it will remain empty.
Without magic there will be no glow.
I know what you do not know
you silly man.

I do not quiet the lips of an angel
nor cover her wrath.
Legends of mermaids will always include tales
of the mermaids vengeful path.
Fantasy fairies know
they come to me with anger
they move the dragons smoke
their vision is everlasting
and holding out for hope.

Coming Soon!

"In Search Of Klimt" series is being expanded and will include new images and stories. There will also be a handy dandy shopping cart for purchases of prints, posters, greeting cards and fine art giclee prints. I also hope that you will sign up on my mailing list because I am going to have free gifts to share with you like a free downloadable letter from the tooth fairy and whimsical angel drawings.

"Have You Ever Read Anything So Beautiful?"


I poem I wrote this morning, perhaps to be continued.

"Inside This Fairies Heart"

She turned the page
To find the words
Of innocence
And she could barely speak.

Consequences she had unraveled
had no place
inside that fairies heart.

All the pitiful soldiers
Lined up as soldiers do
Who will speak for Lily
One soldier wants so know.

"The Mermaid Baby"



Last April I fell and broke my right arm. I also received nerve damage and it is not certain that I will regain full use of my hand back. An artist without the use of her right hand is almost more than I could handle. I am drawing now though and am finding things I had not noticed before my fall. I wrote this poem in honor of new discoveries found and treasured.


"I Stood Inside A Rainbow"

I stumbled to find myself
wanting to be lifted
and yet
I fell to smell the earth.

I stayed there for hours
me in brown beginnings
researching the treasure
that before
I had only walked upon.

I pointed my finger
into a tiny hole.
I hoped I might discover
one thing different
I had not known before.

Alas I found myself mesmerized
as an ant climbed from its cave.
One ant, one tiny ant
a delicate treasure, and
a focus in my day.

He became like none other
I had ever seen before
because
I chosen to lean my attention
sit in pause
and hear life, and its
unmistakable roar.

A reflection in a pond
beyond the ants tiny hole
I leaned to meet the journey.
Who knew a lake would open
by the magic of my own smile.

I found myself host
to a thousand tiny angels
and an afternoon of solace.
I toasted all the Universe
and from roses
I sniffed a glistening vapor of hope.

I knew thirst to touch the dew on roses
and treasure all they had to say
found comfort in their voices
as the sun met their moisture
of an ever so brilliant day

I stood inside a rainbow
Its colors met my skin.
Stepping then outside myself
decoding past objections
I accepted miracles were calling
and stood back to watch them grow.

20 October 2006

"The Mask"
36x48 oil, gold leaf on canvas

available in giclee,cards and posters


ROCK THE VOTE!


The other day we lost the right of habeas corpus (Military Commissions Act ) and there was little more than a whisper coming from Americans in protest. We should be marching in the streets. Hopefully ballot boxes will tell a 'truthful' story and not be rigged. Hopefully we will as a nation not continue to give Bush the right to take away 'our rights'.

When will we decide that history has much to tell us? My friend Carol spent three years in an internment camp because of her Japanese heritage. When she got out the first thing she noticed was trees. I heard her speak to a group of artists not long ago. She shared some of her little paintings of trees that she painted constantly as a child.

My husband Denny is a disabled Vietnam Vet due to Agents Orange, White, Blue and Pink. He lives in pain every day of his life. War is not something to be taken lightly. Denny went into teaching because of the eyes of the children in Vietnam. He wanted to make a difference in the world and knew it had to begin with the children. He was forced to quit something that he loved because the pain became too intense to continue. Most of his life is spent in distraction as his health continues to remind him of his limitations. Most Americans are surprised to know that our government continues to shine all of these soldiers on.

Children are 'not' the same everywhere. Children are not the same in Vietnam even today and children are not the same in Iraq as they are in America, their eyes have seen much more. As a nation we must not just ask why we must scream it with our vote.

There is a lot at stake in less than 3 weeks. Hopefully people will get out of their houses and VOTE.

Habeas corpus 'was' our most precious gift as Americans. For more on the Military Commissions Act and habeas corpus check out:

'Beginning of the End of America' by Keith Olbermann.


"For, on this first full day that the Military Commissions Act is in force, we now face what our ancestors faced, at other times of exaggerated crisis and melodramatic fear-mongering: A government more dangerous to our liberty, than is the enemy it claims to protect us from." Keith Olbermann, Countdown, MSNBC

Get out the VOTE!

"They're Friends You Know"
24x48 oil, gold leaf on canvas

"A Fantasy Art Woman Offers Advise On Family Dynamics, With a HUGE Disclaimer!"

We often want to change family/friends dynamics and find ourselves in the middle of problems that may never be solved. Below are the opinions of a fantasy art woman and I guess this is a disclaimer of sorts. I write this with love though so take what you feel works for you and continue to create your own map.

As a fantasy art woman I know that being sensitive is a tool for good for many things; yes of course the arts; nurturing and caring when no one else seems to, are just a couple examples. Being sensitive is not an enemy it is a gift. What we do with that gift can become our enemy though so it is good to bookmark episodes when we did or did not use our gift well. There are fantasy fairies waiting to see what gifts you bring, so cradle that in your heart and make mental note of beautiful ribbons on a brightly gift wrapped treasure.

I think one of the lessons I have learned that has worked for me is that "I' am not responsible for other peoples relationships. I think the 'complexities' of individual relationships dictate that. I think that each person is finding their way. They listen to a very small amount of what other people say so most advise falls on deaf ears. Who we are in the journey thus traveled, what fantasies or dreams we adhere to, and who we will be, is formed by our hopes and well meaning and our own ability to learn from the past.

I am ME and you are YOU and our responsibility to this Universe is to do good things around us to make the world a better place.

As a sensitive soul your soft nurturing nature, the fairies and longing for beauty inside your heart and your need to want people to do the right thing is 'good'. What doesn't work is not accepting your limitations in the scenario and trying to dictate reactions and responsibilities. You are responsible for 'your' reactions and how you respond to the set of responsibilities you decide are meaningful is 'your' map. You are not responsible for drawing out other peoples maps. In many ways if you adopt this attitude of watching without judgement and knowing that everyone is doing the best they can for 'who they are' could be a big relief to you. I know it is to me. With this article I offer you loving advise, what you do with it, accept it, think it is off base or whatever, is up to you in the end. It is not my role to 'insist' on anything except what I 'can' control and that is my own responses and reactions to things around me.

I, as a fantasy art woman, think the Universe is indeed a zillion tiny beads of light. We add or take away from that light by the choices we make, by the environment we create with our own presence. The mood that fills a room can be changed by one person from one extreme to the other, you know that is true. I have the same battles as you do and I fail pitifully more often than not. I am trying to recognize it though, my map and my role in the Universe. Once we accept our role and the miracles of living we are under obligation to keep trying.

So that is my advise but then I am just a fantasy art woman.

"Testing The Climate"
36x24 oil,gold leaf on canvas
available in giclee

Or purchase the original at Monkdogs Urban Art

"Exceed Your Potential, Aim Past Excellence: An Artist's Story of Serendipity"

"Exceed your potential and your dream will be great. After you realize something is absolutely spectacular say to yourself, 'How can I improve this?" ~ Robert Hogge, Marina Hadley, Monkdogz Urban Art Gallery


I have been an artist since I was four years old. I can't help myself, I 'have to' paint and sculpt and create, it is in my soul. It is my love, my hobby, my craft. I am an artist who is constantly looking for representation and on the quest to get my work out there. Marketing is 3/4 of the ball game but for artists this often a difficult game to play.

Artists dream of hanging their work in New York, I am no exception. I am constantly putting out feelers, writing ezine articles, posting my work on on-line galleries and setting up places to show. I also respond to emails!

I met Bob and Marina through the internet. I received an email from Bob about two years ago complimenting me on my art. We became email buddies. Who can resist flattery right? Little did I know my email buddy had great things planned. One day you are email buddies sharing the small stuff, the next day your email buddy creates a gallery online. OK wonderful. I posted my art on his site. Bob had bigger things up his sleeve though. A few months later, with his long time business partner Marina, Bob opened his own gallery in Chelsea, New York! Wow!

I watched and listened and measured my own potentials as an artist as Bob and Marina lived up to their philosophy and continued towards excellence. Self improvement gurus always tell you to find a mentor then do what they do. My mentors had aimed beyond spectacular and met their target.

I received an email from Bob after the galleries first opening telling me of the nights events. Part of what he wrote to me is below:

"It's the White House." The first call of the evening Monkdogz Urban Art received congratulating them on the gallery and wishing the artists success came at the Presidents request from the White House! "The President couldn't come because of a scheduling conflict but wished Bob and Marina and the artists all the very best on their inaugural show." No matter what you think of the incumbent the response to their invitation was 'very cool!' ~Bob
**********************

Nothing Bob and Marina do is without consideration for excellence. Gallery and Studio Magazine's managing editor Ed McCormack, a former associate of Andy Warhol was interviewed and posted on Monkdogz online gallery debut. Ed and Jeannie McCormack cover the New York art scene and are still avid supporters of the Chelsea gallery.

Richard Calderhead of Art in NY wrote "No gallery in New York has more energy or heart for art"

In keeping with their philosophy of going beyond the spectacular, Bob and Marina did not stray from their vision.

I think we miss the serendipity of life sometimes. We plan and fret and spin our wheels. Sometimes we miss that our dreams are being fulfilled right in front of us and we walk past them. We work hard to meet our goals but fall short of noticing that 'spectacular' is within reach. As I said, I have been an artist since I was four years old, so why wouldn't I accept spectacular things happening? Why not? Why not see the same excellence I expect from my brush that meets my canvas to also find it's way to my dream of showing in New York? Why not? Why decide that dreams being met are for other people? Mentors come into our lives to show us the way.

So did I ever get my work to New York? Yes indeed I did! My show with Monkdogz Urban Art was called "7".

"Whimsical Angel Drawings and a One Winged Angel"

I will take in the sky
and hold it's beautiful offerings.
I will collect whimsical angels.
A one winged angel I will be.

I project the strokes it takes to paint this fairy.
I will push out colors
my palette close at hand.
My one winged angel
disguised at times
her identity to be revealed.

I sift through all my seeds
sort out the ones that will give new life
and watch the rest
fly softly into the wind
to safely find their way.

I reached beyond a rainbow
and drench myself in fairy dust.
I gathered mermaid pictures.
and magical mystical creatures.
I read legends of mermaids.
I had debates about enlightenment.
I heard tales from the lips of angels.
I am a fantasy wild woman,
a one winged angel.
I take out my crayons and make
tiny whimsical angel drawings.

I am a tiny fairy
a one winged angel
anything that strikes my fancy.
I am everything I decide to include
in my journal each and every day.
Words on pages
illustrations of my mood.
A one winged angel
or a culmination of visions.

I will paint whimsical musicians
and beautiful women.
I will sculpt a castle and live there at will.
I will gather letters from the tooth fairy
keep them in a wooden case for emergencies.
I will create a cabaña
serve chocolate eclairs and tea.
I will share my blessed cookbook
and quote affirmations of love.
I will post fairy coloring pages
set them in line
color them when I fell bored.
I will cut out paper dolls
that only dance at midnight.
I will find dragons, capture their fire
and warm my toes on cold days.
Goddess of art
a tale for today
I coast
I spin
I coat my visions with creativity.
Whimsical angel drawings
fantasy art of a goddess
I am or long to be.

Whimsical Angel Drawings and a One Winged Angel Conquer All Or None

Innocent angels
I gave you a key?
I opened the door often
so that you dear friends
would remember me.
There are no debates
about finding enlightenment
this window has never had curtains.
Samples of love affirmations
tied with bright and colorful ribbons
reminded me.

I am a one winged angel
and in my hand
I still have the treasures that sparked it all
my beautiful whimsical angel drawings
held fastly with my one free hand.

"Testing the Climate"
36x48 oil on canvas


I reach for truth, for understanding, I am testing my way and "Testing the Climate". Legends of mermaids inside of me, I bow my head and meditate on oceans that meet exotic lands as the wetness of a pond touches my toes. I am awakened by magical moons and mystical creatures that measure my journey towards female fantasy art, how far I had come and how far I could go was up to me. Did I need to paint a tail to swim to paint beautiful mermaid art?

"Your flight my art fairy, is up to you", breathed the Wind. "The moon is right, you need only to find your wings or tail 'in heart' to understand the mermaid legends you seek to glean from their valuable truths".

I love masks, secrets and hidden treasures. I keep them well cared for in my secret garden and pond. Sweet fairy in art, inner child in me, with a tear in my eye I pause. Reaching out for my brushes and paints I find everything is full of potential. The fairies in art, mermaids in me, in you, gather together in spirit. Close your eyes and touch your toes into a pond of possibilities and listen for messages that only a fairy or mermaid can tell you.

The greatest gift of any "Beginning" is that it holds the opportunity of learning. Everyone has a starting point, EVERYONE! So in the "Beginning" learning may hold some frustrations because it is about problem solving. Problems may not be considered problems if they bring us to the point of experiencing the present moment. 'Now', which is experiencing life as it is in the very second we live, is the greatest gift of all. While "Testing the Climate" I am testing my will. Does mermaid art need an ocean and a mermaid a tail to capture their story? As I so lovingly collect the objects of learning and accept lace and whispers from the women I paint I become transfixed on my goal of smelling the fragrance offered at the very second it is available. I learn from legends of mermaids and accept that everything I need to fly or swim is there inside of me right here right now.

"Beginning" 24x48 oil,lace and jewelry on canvas


"Fantasy Art of Exotic Women"

featuring

"In Search Of Klimt"Series


"I search for Klimt!" the artist in me spoke spoke boldly .

"Ahhh, then we must start at the Beginning!" said the Wind.

Pulling out oils, my canvas, poems and stories from an old wooden case, turquoise, silver leaf and jewels thrust past the lid and met the open sky.

The Wind confirmed my journey, "Your fantasy begins now, paint freely beautiful women goddess art "

And so I did.



"Beginning" is the first oil painting I did in my quest for the passions of Gustav Klimt. I wanted my fantasy art of exotic women to be full of energy and determination. Searching out the exotic meant distant foreign lands, birds not normally encountered, perhaps I would come across a magic swan? To search for Klimt meant to know emotion well and not to be afraid of what those emotions might tell me thus far unknown to science. I start my fantasy art woman paintings with music, usually Enigma; Dead Can Dance or something from Loreena McKennitt. Then I open my heart and the fantasy art woman inside of me begins. It feels like a daydream, a magical adventure. It is a dance and I become covered with all the colors seen in my oil paintings and on my palette. My imagining becomes so real that sometimes I can hear them breathing. It isn't the realism of the brushstroke on watercolor paper or canvas that I capture in this series, ahh no. It is something less tangible than a rendering. Have you ever met an accomplishment you thought you couldn't? Then stand back and wonder where the energy came from and like lace and whispers you say, "Did I do that, did this come from me alone?" Sometimes feeling startled by the women and their presence, something imported from another time in space captures me. I pause from the dance, focus my eyes and I see life. I breath in the art of the exotic women I paint. It is all a dance waiting to surface.

Soon to be on it's own website and available in greeting cards, posters, prints on fine watercolor paper and giclee fine art prints.

"They're Friends You Know"
24x48 oil, gold leaf on canvas


"Don't Be Intimidated At Art Openings, Bring CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES and Wear a Big Smile RECIPE Incl."

Joining an art group can be intimidating.....

I used to attend art openings, walk in, see my art on the walls and then walk out. I barely took time to see the other faces attending much less say hello and introduce myself, I was that shy. One day I read in the newspaper that one of the local art clubs was hosting an art marketing workshop and it was free... no excuses not to go. The morning of the workshop I read from "The Four Agreements Companion" by Miguel Ruiz. If you have not read "The Four Agreements", wow, pick it up at your local book store, it is fantastic and could be life changing for you. I came across a section that for the most part could be considered common sense, but for me at that moment resonated. The chapter spoke about the fact that our personalities are formed by 'others' when we are young and we often accept the role given to us and respond to life according to that definition. The words resonated because I realized that the people at the art marketing workshop had no idea who we I was or what defined me. I could be an axe murderer or an ex beauty queen for all they knew. So why, why let myself be pined down with the personality and limitations accepted since childhood? WHY? The obvious answer is NO reason. You know how some things for some reason just hits you and you relate so much that it becomes you? That is what happened that morning before the art marketing workshop. I decided that not only would I go to the art marketing workshop but that I would be amazingly friendly. I would introduce myself to at least ten people and I would open my mouth and figure out at least two questions to ask.. I DID! and the confidence I gained from that experience was phenomenal. I allowed myself to shine. I then found out when the next board meeting was for that art club and the other one in town that up to that point had intimidated me. When I went to the board meetings, keeping in mind that no one knew me and had no idea of my insecurities, I volunteered for just about everything. There is nothing like working together that encourages a friendship more. I also brought my 'now famous' "Kathy's Chocolate Chip Cookies" to every opening. I displayed them beautifully, after all this was an 'art' opening. People began to know me for my constant smile and friendliness and my cookies. After time I actually became President of one club and served on the board of the other. Who I am is now less defined by who my parents or sisters or old high school memories did. I am now more who I decide to be. So! Don't be intimidated! Go to the next art opening or art club or whatever else intimidates you and be who you know deep down you really are.

Here is my cookie recipe for a little extra confidence:

Kathy's Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cream together: 1 cup 'real' butter (not margarine!), 1 1/2 cup sugar, 1 1/2 Tbl. black strap molasses, 1 tsp. salt

add and blend two eggs

don't overdo this part or your cookies will turn out weird.

sift together then fold into sugar mixture:

2 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp. baking soda

add and mix to above mixture:

1 cup coconut, 3/4 cup old fashioned oatmeal, 2 full cups chocolate chips

Bake at 325 degrees for about 12 minutes. Use only an old junkie cookie sheet... not one of the new ones, they tend to make these cookies cake. Take the cookies out 'just a hair BEFORE they are done'. Let them finish up after they come out of the oven.

That's it! So wear a big smile, introduce yourself and tell them who made the cookies!

Kathy

This is a journey of sorts from one frame of mind to another and the colors and moods that guided me. I describe three paintings and their process.

"Anticipation" (image above) 36x24 oil on canvas, dated, Sept. 1998 part of my "Passion Series" *
was actually a breakthrough piece for me. I had been
painting my "Victorian Series" for months, spending hours on
modulating the colors. I paint a lot from photos. My goal with the
"Victorian Series" was to put in as many colors in the skin tone as I
could. Looking at a photo or life long enough a lot of colors begin
to show themselves that normally go unnoticed. Modulating many
colors I became frustrated and board after finishing 10 or so of
them. I had a canvas that I had painted a dark blue and decided that
maybe it would be ok to just play.....and not modulate at all. I
found a picture that I liked, studied the colors, filled my brush a
fresh for each stroke and applied them to my canvas. I have not
modulated since. I continued painting with this color palette naming
the series "The Passion Series". I still tried to fit every color in
the rainbow on my palette as I do to this day adding small nuances
wherever I can. I would add here too that the series before "The
Passion Series" was "Hawaiian Legacy" which is predominantly done in
sepia, tones.


Another example of moving forward is "Girl On Phthalo Green" 36x48 oil on canvas, dated Oct. 2000 and part of my "Cosmopolitan Series" *
I became tired of the palette of blues and fell in love with phthalo
green for a time. I guess I still love it. This painting was
greatly influenced by Modgliani. When I was in high school, many
years ago, my mother asked me to copy a Modigliani for her house. I
painted a 60x72 piece for her in corals. I never forgot that
painting nor Modigliani. When I feel truly inspired paintings are
done quickly and the brushstrokes are done wildly. I am in heaven
during these times. I painted this in perhaps 3 hours over another
painting I did not like.

"The Power Within Me" 48x36 oil and gold liner on canvas dated
August 2002 is part of my "African Series" *
This painting is part of my "African Series". I used phthalo green
along with my beloved full palette in this series. I painted this
quickly as well. It almost feels like a fever, it just flows. I
attribute that to doing my homework so to speak. All those years of
modulating and painting in sepia tones, my constant drawing in
graphite gives me a base of understanding. I put down colors as I
feel them, almost in a dance and it is most certainly trance like. I
use a lot of paint and use big brushes. I work from darks to light.
I save the lights and small brushes until I am pretty sure that I am
happy with the painting in general. It is always tempting to use
small brushes and add some highlight but I remind myself that that
would probably ruin the painting and make it appear tedious.
Sometimes they don't work, but I just think, "So What!" I can always
paint over it, that is the gift of doing oils. I think sometimes
there is more freedom in oils than there is in drawing and most
certainly watercolors. Painting on large canvas' is also very free.
When I paint small I become locked up and back to where I started
when I modulated colors. When we draw on paper we try to tell
ourselves that it is 'just paper' to try to set ourselves free from
worry about the end results, but oils make a better friend to me.

In all of my paintings emotion plays the strongest part. This is
the part that takes the longest. If anything must be right it is the
emotion felt by the image, so that they can breath. Sometimes I
cannot get that part and it is so frustrating to me that I cannot
sleep at night. It becomes the only thing I think about. I choose
to paint mostly women because I am one and because I think they are
beautiful.

* Where to find the images of the paintings listed on my website:

"Passion Series" posted on my website #1
"Cosmopolitan Series" posted on my website #1
"African Series" posted on my website #4

"Neon's Obsession"
18x24 oil on canvas
available in giclee $235.
also available in prints, mugs and t-shirts


NEWS:


I have ANOTHER show in New York IN NOVEMBER! YAY!

I will post the dates soon. In the meantime check out Monkdogz Urbah Art in New York or visti their website. Say "Hi" to Bob for me.

Monkdogz Urban Art
547 West 27th Street
Chelsea, New York

http://www.monkdogz.com


If you would like me to send you an invitation please contact me via email through my website http://www.kathysart.com

"Baby Mermaid" oil on canvas

available in giclees, prints and cards



The attraction to mermaids and fairies is within us all, we want to know there is magic. There have been times in my life that their existence has been un-deniable. To some this will sound crazy. But for me to say that I did not hear giggles in the forest that came from fairies or that dragons took flight to meet me on an island, would be a lie. I suspect that things like that have happened to you too. Perhaps you were not ready and missed that dimension?

Today...let yourself free to believe

if only in secret.



"Dear Lydia Who Taught Me To Believe In Mermaids and Fairies"


Lydia
for a time
walked through the forest
Yes...I knew her once
but that was long ago

She was not a fairy
but a gift from the sea
displaced

I found her on the sand
rescued her from strangers
and from there I took her home
cared for her
never suspecting it was me who would find rescue

This mermaid
friend of mine
who in time lost her tail
adapted to her surroundings
despite her sorrow
missing of who she had been


"Someday I will go home
but for now"
she giggled
"I will gather rainbows!"
She put them in a mayonnaise jar
and later
released them on all her poems
a miracle I try to remember
whenever I miss her


With every glistening drop of water
that came down from the sky
I worried I would lose her
one day
before I felt ready

I simply could not bare it
a day that did not include her
Without her who then would I be?
I would not recognize myself

She smiled a light full of acceptance
who wouldn't love that treasure?
If I tried she always told me
Anything could be my goal

I could meet the forest
stand at an oceans door
take a breeze within my hand
fold in chocolate layers
and my cake would be most grand

She is a memory now
I took her to the sea
I kissed her cheek
picked flowers for her hair
and watched her as she swam away

It is not as sad
as I had thought that it would be
because she left me with the mayonnaise jar
and the rainbows to be freed

"The Power Within Me"

48x36 oil on canvas

available in giclees... coming soon in posters and cards! yay!



For My Birthday Give Me Art! Visions of Mermaids and Fairies, A Poem About the Creative Process.......


White canvas' and drawers full of color
brushes
clay
pencils and paper to write out my ideas
waiting for me

Inspiration
somewhere between folded memories and todays rainbow or stormy clouds
My creativity depends on my focus
I smile
I frown
I tear up and feel the pang of some ones defeat
oft times my own

Arrival at a mermaids den
flight of a nearby fairy offering her dust
Images of old masters who never knew their worth
How to books of arriving at someone else's vision
Movies of passion or tears
Fashion magazines and torn out pages of sensual poses
Fashion magazines of women who line up perfectly in a crowd
filed carefully to meet my mood

Melted, my treasures
together with music!
Ahhh music my muse!
Play it as loud as you can without alarming the neighbors
Feel the base and the pounding of musical notes as they meet their objective
Know the lyrics and sing to the top of my lungs
Yes sing!
All the magic around me is ready

Then dance!
Dance free on the sand of the closest beach I can find
Dance on fresh mown grass
feel the blood rush to my head
Dance like a fairy under flowers and leaves
Dance swimming swiftly just like a mermaid
Feel the wetness of her travel
close my eyes
yes, I am there!

So Swim!
All the fish adorned with their jewels of color
and the dolphins of yore
the sea lions chime in
and together we feel our artful journey

Love
all the beauty around me
breath it in
make it my pleasure to visit anytime I choose

I take out my pen and write all my childlike adventures
I write and it saves me
encourages me
protects me from my own self sometimes
gets it all out for all to see or to hide in my closet

I write
my friend, my pleasure this pen of mine
My companion from whomever the words are birthed

and then....
I cry
I cry because I lust for my arrival to that space
that space that dismisses criticism
that ache
I cry because it seems only inches away
at any given moment my teacup might fall

So I YELL
I YELL at the incoming traffic
floods of eyes showing disapproval
and I YELL at my own struggle

Turning around
I see me

I pick my battles and I run
I feel the breeze in my hair
sweat falling from my head to my neck that confirms my travel
and I feel the rush
because I run as far as I can

I lie flat on the floor
quiet
still and quiet I listen to the sound of my own breath
I try to think of nothing
no false prisons that lock out creative souls or the inner child
I think of nothing

Silence enters and I am calm
once again

Birds
the wind through the tree
my cat licks my face
I open my eyes

White canvas' and drawers full of color........waiting for me

19 August 2006

"She could Almost Touch Them"
18x22 graphite on paper


------------------------------------------------

A Poem About the Creative Process:


19 August 2006


"For My Birthday Give Me Art! Visions of Mermaids and Fairies, A Poem About the Creative Process"


White canvas' and drawers full of color
brushes
clay
pencils and paper to write out my ideas
waiting for me

Inspiration
somewhere between folded memories and todays rainbow or stormy clouds
My creativity depends on my focus
I smile
I frown
I tear up and feel the pang of some ones defeat
oft times my own

Arrival at a mermaids den
flight of a nearby fairy offering her dust
Images of old masters who never knew their worth
How to books of arriving at someone else's vision
Movies of passion or tears
Fashion magazines and torn out pages of sensual poses
Fashion magazines of women who line up perfectly in a crowd
filed carefully to meet my mood

Melted my treasures
together with music!
Ahhh music my muse!
Play it as loud as you can without alarming the neighbors.
Feel the base and the pounding of musical notes as they meet their objective
Know the lyrics and sing to the top of my lungs
Yes sing!
All the magic around me is ready

Then dance!
Dance free on the sand of the closest beach I can find
Dance on fresh mown grass
feel the blood rush to my head
Dance like a fairy under flowers and leaves
Dance swimming swiftly just like a mermaid
Feel the wetness of her travel
close my eyes
yes, I am there!

So Swim!
All the fish adorned with their jewels of color
and the dolphins of yore
the sea lions chime in
and together we feel our artful journey

Love
all the beauty around me
breath it in
make it my pleasure to visit anytime I choose

I take out my pen and write all my childlike adventures
I write and it saves me
encourages me
protects me from my own self sometimes
gets it all out for all to see or to hide in my closet

I write
my friend, my pleasure this pen of mine
My companion from whomever the words are birthed

and then....
I cry
I cry because I lust for my arrival to that space
that space that dismisses criticism
that ache
I cry because it seems only inches away
at any given moment my teacup might fall

So I YELL
I YELL at the incoming traffic
floods of eyes showing disapproval
and I YELL at my own struggle

Turning around
I see me


I pick my battles and I run
I feel the breeze in my hair
sweat falling from my head to my neck that confirms my travel
and I feel the rush
because I run as far as I can

I lie flat on the floor
quiet
still and quiet
I listen to the sound of my own breath
I try to think of nothing
no false prisons that lock out creative souls or the inner child
I think of nothing

Silence enters and I am calm
once again

Birds
the wind through the tree
my cat licks my face
I open my eyes

White canvas' and drawers full of color........waiting for me

"Hood"
Kathy Ostman-Magnusen
20x18 oil on canvas
(from the "Passion Series")

$400.

Artist's note: He sees; he thinks; he resolves and waits for a clearing. He is a man of wisdom.


This painting is hangeing at Aloha Outpost in Pahoa, Hawaii

------------------------------------------------------

On ezinearticles.com today:

September 1996

"Aloha" said the male voice over the phone.

"Hello?" I said with anticipation. "Is this Dennis Magnusen?"

"Yes"

"Did you graduate from Such and Such High School in 1965?" I asked.

"Yes" said the voice hesitantly.

"This is Kathy"

"Oh Sweetheart!"

He knew exactly who I was. Our story unfolds from there, inside a little window in time that gave us the miracle of a second chance.

1964

When I was fifteen, I noticed a tall blond head amidst the crowds of non people in my high school. I would look for him at breaks or lunchtime, see where he was and who he was with. His 6'2 1/2" frame with lovely blue eyes and calm demeanor my reward to glance upon from a distance. He was usually with another girl or a group of friends. I noticed him then and have felt my eyes and heart searching him out ever since. I was a very shy girl with no confidence about who I was or my place in circles of clubs and established friendships around me. I was born with the spirit of art inside me. It was my hideaway as well as my best friend. My Mother always told me I was pretty. I never felt sure if that was an asset or a hindrance. I was and am still blond with green eyes of Scandinavian decent. Scandinavian's tend to be reserved yet moody which fits me well. I never considered high school to be a highlight of my life, rather an intrusion into my underdeveloped psyche. I was still playing hop scotch in my front yard after school. My bed was filled with dolls that I still found delight in combing their hair and changing their clothes. I was a young 15 with pressures around me to grow up and become a young lady.

The above is an excerpt from a book I am writing about finding my long lost love. Below is a song I wrote years before finding him. I always loved him.

BTW, I am looking for a publisher/agent....whatever helps me get my story out.

"In You"

a song:

1)
In you... I saw a vision fleeting by,
no tale nor reason to de-nigh
a dream so dim
yet waiting to begin.

2)
In you...the ships could sail behind your eyes
encase a world or hasten time.
The color blue...in you
casts another hue.

3)
And you... escaped my grasp
I cannot tell
If all is lost I wish you well
another time
where stories never rhymed.

4)
In you... I saw a vision fleeting by
in songs, in notes, in passers by,
a stories end
no longer to pretend
in you.

"Suntouched"
24x48 oil on canvas


4 August 2006

Early in the morning
I picked honeysuckle from the edge of our yard
right before I walked down to that house
the one that burned to the ground last night
I smelled my branch of fragrance as I stood before it's ruin
Eyes from a calico cat met mine
She seemed to still expect breakfast in her bowl
But not from me
from the people that no longer had a home

Ahhh such a sight in the sky last night
Loud bangs as chemicals from a drug lab met fire
Cars quickly spun away
I bet they were surprised
Was everyone OK?
No news yet today.

The dogs from across the street yelped
as they watched me in my query
I wondered what they thought last night
still tied up
like always
as their owner leaves them each day

I locked up my own dog and two cats
safely
in the garage
Four fire trucks and their entourage
rushing down the road
too late
It seems no one called 911
Not for a long long time
'Til the house and what was inside
was almost gone.
This same house
and the people inside
wasted every second and moment of their lives
brewing up a substance that put us all in jeopardy
And this morning
standing in front of that house
that was
I still hope
that everyone is alright

One of the tied up dogs gets loose
He comes and sniffs my aura
Not to worry little friend
I am no threat to you
He cowers none the less
Too many days of being tied to a post

There is an elderly couple
living right next door to that now gone house
I hear the man in this back yard
running a weed whacker
Seems he was not affected by the glow
from night before

One last glance
wondering exactly what happened
I still did not know
not the people
who were only passers by
who hosted a constant flow of short visitors
Such a life
I can only wonder why
There but poor fortune
you or I

I sniff my honeysuckle branch once again
Say good bye to the dog at my feet
and the cat looking for it's bowl
Perhaps the elderly couple will take pity
Maybe they or I

At my gate I am met by my own little pets
A house still standing
and my husband
asleep
inside.

"Solace and Consolation"

chaos and distortion
I met my motivation for recovery
'twas bolted on the doorway
I muttered 
don't bother waiting
or complain of irritations 
I paint over all gilded cages

I force my fingers to make a fist
but oh
they refuse to bend
however will I recover?

yet there beside the light
cheese and wine are served 
what a lovely opening...
the doorway I mean
the one with bolted breaths
you remember that show?

I stood there in my mind
my compliments to the shadow
red was not on my palette
I reached for other colors 
they simply refused their mark

I will take your objections 
clearly 
I will point towards sleeping giants
wrap up their fingers
just like mine
and wait 

Twist your arm 
hold a hammer with your muted hand
there is nothing charming about this wall I said
there is noting here to keep me amused
I am board with it
I want to say I am finished 
and have you agree

pastel 
your breath I mean
what could you have been thinking?
I have all these boxes still
portions set in a line
put your two hands close together
and pretend them to be mine
you might be disappointed
there is no solace
no consolation  in getting it right
no matter how soft the colors return to you

"Bed of Dreams"
30x40 oil and gold leaf on canvas

New Poems:

18 May 2006

"Buried Roses"

if i had roses to give you
i would have buried them
muted their breath
measured their penitence
stopped the flood of overflowing criticism

the rain continues
I thought it's shoulders were undaunted.
horizontal landscapes catch the rhythm
hold gifts
good and bad
none the less given with due remarks of wanting shelter
in the presence of unadorned queens

was it you who never stopped noting thorns
of now quieted roses?
or me who allowed their travel?

-----------------------------------------

19 May 2006

"Defined By So Few Words"

neon blue continues on
i am neither sad nor happy
i guess i find myself relieved
waiting for tears if i need them

i never realized her poems to be so short
so inconclusive
so undefined
she always seemed so magnificently tormented

ahhh zelda
where are you when i need you?

pointing in the direction of the sky
i expected beyond
but the treasure was in the trees
my eyes gathered them
standing beneath and within
i bend my branches

born with a melancholy
poets charm that pathway
books and paintings
sculptures of flight
rounded off with a drunken stupor

my fingers feel numb
i approach the station to arrive
i have been there and back
i am coated with the very same torment
said with few words
on the pages that you sent to me

--------------------------------------
20 May 2006

'Neon's Unspoken Tales'

she said she knew you
i, of course took up her time
quoting our best/ worst moments
yet, only in my head
she never really heard our history
my memories burn still unspoken

be sure to call her everyday, she said

'every' day?
every single day?

just keep it short
that's really all that's needed

how do you fill a bottle too small?
how do you comb the hair of an old dolly
who's locks are now sparse?
how do you find the voices
remembered
take them back
comfort them
instruct them in the art of positive thinking?
my moods are not always my own

------------------------------------------
20 May 2006

'Feathers Carved In Stone'

i am not sure how it settles...
the stone past the surface of the water
my words, my appraisal

in a crunch i refer to little boxes
sometimes empty
decorated with ribbons
sometimes filled with feathers carved in stone
i fall back on their sentimental comfort
of who i wish to be
strong, undaunted
graceful despite the climate
just like all the other ladies i admire

yet i sit at the bottom of this pond
i am not sure if it is mirky or clear
if my visions make sense to me at this moment
it may just be lie

i must hold the flag of my own destiny
fold up notes that overtake my heart
but then
i think i might miss them
i feel afraid that if i stand tall
i will find i do not exist
pieces of my flight
though they be stone
brought me here thus far
i would be leaving the little girl
with paper dolls
alone and still afraid

---------------------------------------
25 May 2006

"A Promise and a Gift"

he fled from the mountains
arrived at the sea
leaving
all his gifts behind him
including me

white knights and sacred shells
reach out past sad
beyond
the sand a token
within this map

you came...so i left
you didn't notice
pretending
i never really cared




--------------------------------------
14 july 2006

"I Stroke Her Hair"

i stroke her hair
i mend her
again
despite her wild objections

defined by lines that did not match
she held herself closely
did not entertain streaks of light
river crossings
paths that led to lime green

i walk past her sigh and find it to be my own
buckle down you stupid girl!
consequences of moons that go unlocked
bring hues that grey up possibility

i shook her
i made her bleed
who did she think i was?

her eyes looked up
she asked for mercy
the kind that only i could give her

many a tormented heart is born out of passion
i stroked her hair
i gave her the box unopened
with all the gifts inside
because i was the only one who could
and the only one there

"Hidden Behind Social Masks"
40x48 oil on canvas

NEWS:

I have a show in New York:

Monkdogz Urban Art
547 West 27th Street
Chelsea, New York

http://www.monkdogz.com

May 18 - June 10

If you would like me to send you an invitation please contact me via email through my website http://www.kathysart.com

subject: Monkdogz Urban Art

Yay!