Jo-Ann Sanborn Daily

Lorenzo the Cat visits Marco, and Stand Tall, daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

Stand Tall, 2011, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on board, 5"x7"

Don't miss the membership meeting at the Marco Island Center for the Arts tomorrow, January 31, at 1 p.m. It's important to be there to cast your vote for directors and to hear what's new.

If you didn't get a notice about this meeting and have paid your dues, call the Art Center to be put on the email list. The Art Center is a membership organization and your input is valuable and necessary to the continued success of the center.

Lorenzo the Cat stands tall. I was fortunate enough to meet Lorenzo through a mutual friend, and have become an ardent admirer. He's beautiful, regal, and very well dressed.

Lorenzo visited the Marco Island area as a guest of the Artist Colony at the Esplanade. He and I share a love for the beautiful Everglades Landscape. Lorenzo found the boardwalk at the Marsh Trail to be particularly commanding, with a great view of some tasty fish.

Lorenzo though about having dinner there, but a large alligator close by made him realize dinner would be much more enjoyable in the safety of his hotel room.

Sponsored by the Artist Colony at the Esplanade, Lorenzo's owner and best friend, Joanne Biondi will be showing her work of Lorenzo at the Marco Island Center for the Arts in the Petite Gallery, February 3-5. She will offer a print of Lorenzo as a raffle to benefit Marco's no-kill shelter, For the Love of Cats.

You can meet her in person at the reception, February 3, 3-5 p.m. If you're a cat lover, don't miss it!

Also dont' miss the

Selling Art, Morning Outlook daily painting, by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-27T06:00:00.001-05:00

Morning Outlook, 2011, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

I consider myself very fortunate to be part of an artist colony, with a wonderful studio in a great destination location. My location helps to bring in potential collectors from around the world. It's an ideal situation, and even though temporary, we are now into our third year and I'm very grateful while it lasts. Being visible has certainly helps sell paintings in this dismal economy.

This opportunity didn't come about through chance. It came about by having an idea, thinking hard about how it could be a win-win for everyone involved, and then selling the idea and overcoming or satisfying all objections. The result is that snowbirds stop in to see what's new, residents bring by guests for an outing, and the Chamber of Commerce has somewhere to send people when its cold or they are tired of the beach. Since we are on the water, people even come by boat.

There are twelve of us at the Esplanade, in three locations. The artists are pleased because we get to put our work in front of the public. Right now we are all 2-D artists, paintings with a few pick-up items like cards. Most are making enough off our sales to pay our expenses and fees, and some are doing considerably better than that.

As an artist today, is your work selling? While location can help, there are some other things to consider if you want to be successful at selling your work. As the art market changes, painting the painting is only a portion of the work you must do as an artist to ensure your paintings find good homes. While selling isn't everything in art, if you are putting your work out there for sale and it isn't selling, let's examine some potential areas of trouble for you to consider.

1. Is the pubic aware of your work? If you don't live in a location that potential collectors come to you, how do you make them aware of your work? Getting your work into view of the buying public is something you must consider. Are you showing your work where people can find you, with good contact information included?

Are you visible on the Internet? A website is a minimum today. Do you have a blog? Post on Facebook? Are you newsworthy? These days, most artists cannot rely on a gallery to do the work for them, and must self-promote relentlessly to get their work in front of potential purchasers.

2. Is the price of your work too high for what it is? There are thousands of artists out there. If you are new to the art world, if your work is similar to the work of others, not unique enough, or not well made with quality materials, people might think the work is too highly priced. If you've won awards or achieved recognition, especially outside of your local area, you will be able to charge a little more for your work. Collectors are not stupid, and want value from a piece of art. What gives your art value in the eyes of a collector?

3. Does the public like it? Are you making work people can respond to? People want art they connect with on some level. If people walk by your work without taking a look, you are not going to sell to them. You must make work that makes others stop and take a look, and then want to own, in order to sell.

4. Can they afford it? This is different from pricing too high and is very subjective, since people spent money in different ways. Sometimes people on a limited budget will spend a lot on art and someone with a huge incomes doesn't see its value. Never pre-judge what someone will spend for an artwork. In addition, how do you accommodate new collectors or people on a budget? Do you offer lower priced alternatives? Prints, cards, daily paintings?Perhaps a lay-a-way plan for those who would like it?

5. Are you cultivating your collectors? Many people who purchase a painting will eventually purchase another one--FROM YOU! Each of them need to be recognized and appreciated. Because they love living with your work they will refer others to your work as well.

Just a start, but if you'd like a little more info about this subject, click on the right hand side and chose a book to help you out. Here are some suggestions. I'm constantly trying to learn more about both technique and business. How about you?

Light in the Landscape and Afternoon Sail,daily painting by Evergldes artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Afternoon Sail, 2011, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 2011

Aren't we so fortunate to live in Florida this time of year? We can take an afternoon sail, while those up north are shoveling snow. Love it!

We're having a great time in the Color Mixing Class. The class has made color wheels, color triangles, and individual color charts. They've investigated limited palettes, and been amazed by the range of colors they can create. They've found colors they love and colors they really don't want on their palettes.

They've learned to make color charts, they've learned about color values and made value balls in black and white and in color. Something about color temperature, too. They've learned that a color is different in light and in shade, how to tone down a color and how to compliment it. Some ah-ha moments, too.

Next month I'll be teaching a class on Light in the Landscape. We'll learn how light acts on the landscape, how it moves around forms in the landscape, and investigate the light at different times of day and in different atmospheric conditions.

It's a three-hour class and we'll have to work from photos since there's not enough time to get outside to paint. I know this is no substitute for looking at the actual landscape, but you can start getting ready by being more aware of the light in preparation for class.

If you'd like to learn along with us, you can sign up here. "Love is in the Air" today, so see you at ArtWalk tonight.

Love is in the Air!

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Love is in the Air

ArtWalk

Artist Colony at the Esplanade

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

5-8 p.m.

See you there!

Last Wednesday of every month!

Shell, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-20T05:22:00.000-05:00

Shell, Jo-Ann Sanborn,

Acrylic on board, 5"x5"

I’ve painted the Everglades for 19 years now. I and find constantrenewal in the light which changes and inspires regularly. The Everglades are favorite subject and mymuse.

Today this shell on my easel caught my attention. New techniques, materials, and subject matter are always onthe horizon and I enjoy trying them out. Abstract paintings always revitalize my brainand my painting. Writing the blog and myrecent book are other challenges Ienjoy. It all adds up to who I am as apainter and a person.

Changing things around spurs the creative process. I firmly believe an artist must always be astudent. Just like the plants in my garden, if you're not growing, then you'redying.

Sold - Seeking Shade by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Seeking Shade, 2010, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on Canvas, 30"x30"

Seeking Shade, dear to my heart, sold last week. While it is always hard to let a painting go, I'm glad that Shade will be cherished by collectors who have now acquired several of my paintings. I hope it will bring them joy.

I've been painting this particular tree island for so long that it's population has expanded. The small palm on the left wasn't there when I began painting the Everglades in 1994. Child of the others?

In some ways, painting is like bringing up children. We put in heart and soul. Through education, training, and endless personal efforts I attempt to shape them in the way I want them to go.

Like my children, my paintings strive to go boldly into the future, while being bound by the weight of the past. Sometimes I force my will on them and they submit. Other times I leave them to find their own way, and they soar.

Both types of paintings can be delightful, but the ones that soar are a little closer to my heart.

It's OK to buy art! Calm Lagoon Everglades painting by Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-13T07:08:00.000-05:00

Calm Lagoon, 2005, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 40"x40"

Less is more these days, and culture is turning away from consumerism, but it’s still OK to buy art. Quality art can last for generations and bring you lasting pleasure.

Learna little about what makes good art.

Trustyour gut to find something you’ll love

Buythe best you can afford

Buyart you respond emotionally

Placeit where you will enjoy it daily and it will enrich your life.

Painting Supports, Edge of a Prairie by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

Edge of a Prairie, 2012

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

Artists use a variety of supports for their paintings. I most often use stretched canvas for medium to large paintings. I order it already stretched. It comes medium weave canvas, tightly stretched, is most often double or tripled primed. When an order comes I open it, prime again if necessary, and tone all the canvases. I almost always have have a nice supply of sizes ready to paint.

Canvas or linen on board is the choice for my smaller, daily paintings. Since my favorite supplier is no longer making the panels I prefer, I'm trying out a variety of others, and finding surfaces that work for me.

For my recent Snowmen project I used gesso board. It's much smoother than a canvas, but I enjoyed how it grabbed the paint and gave me a nice resistance with dry brush. I'll try a few larger paintings on it, too.

Linen is a wonderful fiber, but I've found that the stretched linen sags too much for my vigorous painting methods. Recently I've tried linen on board, and loved it, and will use it more in the future.

I've also been trying a variety of hard boards. Someone recently questioned me about what board means, and about its quality. I want to make it clear that when I say "board" I paint on quality material of archival quality. It's definitely NOT the cardboard panels often used for student work!

Archival quality board is often an actual board, like birch, but more often is a composite of wood, which won't warp easily. Archival means that nothing in the making of the board will leach into or onto the surface or back of my painting. It's protected and will withstand the test of time.

Lovely hardboards, linen boards, and gessoboards can easily be purchased at any online artist supply store. Try something new and let me know your favorites!

Support for the Arts, Autumn Grasses painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Autumn Grasses, 2011 © Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on Canvas, 18"x24

Sometimes a painting that you think is done isn't. This is one I showed a couple of weeks ago and then went back in and tightened up. You can see the older vision here.

Last year the City of Marco Island presented the lovely FLAME awards to people who excelled in encouraging the arts in our community. Tonight I'll speak to the Marco Island City Council to again ask for support for the awards and to tell them of a new project the Arts Advisory Committee would like to present to the public.

Even thought our City funds parks, recreation, and beautification, and has a huge capital program, funding for the arts is a struggle! In this tight economy, it's uncertain whether support for the arts, even a small amount, will be granted.

Our growing City needs more than a beach. We know by now that the arts enrich our community. We also know that the arts bring money to a community by providing jobs and exciting things to do, and that cultural tourists who visit spend more and stay longer in an arts community. The arts help our housing market since people what to live where there are arts opportunities

A few years ago a poll of the people on Marco showed a clear majority would pay a dollar to two a year for the arts. Funding for the FLAME award is under a nickel per person a year!

Let's ensure that the arts are alive and well on Marco Island. If you live on Marco, give your Council person a call or a quick email and ask them to support the arts on Marco by recognizing those who do the work with a FLAME award. Thanks!

My class "Color Mixing" starts today, and I'll teach "Light and the Florida Landscape" next month. Both will be taught at the Marco Island Center for the Arts.

protecting the Everglades, and Beach Shade, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-06T06:50:00.002-05:00

Beach Shade, 2012, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 6"x12"

As the world changes rapidly, we’re in danger of falling behind othercountries in the green category. Theleadership of many rising nations knows that sustaining the environment will becritical to the health and well being of their citizens in the world to come. Their most successful companies are thosethat are finding ways to move ahead while using practices that help sustain ourplanet.

There are a lot of us humans, and we don’t always thinkalike. But when we set our minds to it,we can make a difference. With ourcaring, our attention, and our money, we can make the world a betterplace. Places that I personally watched restored, prompted and funded in part by the Clean Water Act, are Gloucester harbor, Boston harbor,and the Connecticut River. All weregross when I was younger, and today are restored to better health.

The Everglades play an important part in the health ofour waterways. We need to protectthem. While I really dislike the fact ofadding legislation into packages for passing, when Congress passed legislationto continue funding the government, the Everglades won a bonus, with funds tocontinue Everglades restoration. I’mglad people in our government think that protecting the Everglades is important. It is!

it's encouraging to see young people take an active interest in protecting the environment. These young biology students are part of a group camping at Collier Seminole Park while they study the animals and ecosystems of our South Florida environment. Kids like this are passionate about our planet, and interested in how it works. They recently stopped in to the studio to chat about the Everglades.

I felt really bad for them camping out during our chilly little cold spell, but they were cheerful and interesting and told me that sitting around a warm campfire at night ekpt them cosy.

The Everglades landscape drew me to paint it because it is positively magical. After learning more about the environment, I paint with the added desire to bring more attention to the fact that it is a threatened landscape. The land can’t speak for itself, so someone must care enough to speak for it. If I can speak to you about this landscape through my paintings, and you see it differently after viewing my paintings, then I’ve reached you on a deeper level. You also, may want to sustain it.

In my book, Embracing the Everglades, I discuss some of the impact of humans on the land, andwill share some of the profits with the organizations that are working topreserve and protect the Everglades. And if you havepurchased a copy or received one as a gift, and if you like it, you can commenthere. Thanks!

Thousands gather to protest Global Warming, and Afternoon Sail, daily painting by Evergldes artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

Afternoon Sail, 2011, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7" Sold

Happy New Year!

Health, Abundance and Joy are my wishes for you this year

Have you been thinking of taking an art class? My class, Color Mixing, will start Monday, January 9th, 12:30-3:30. at the Marco Island Center for the Arts.

We'll do a lot of mixing! We'll start by investigating just one color, and then expand our palette. We'll learn just how many colors you can achieve with a limited palette, and why sometimes that's not quite enough. We'll learn about color values and color temperature. You'll learn how to make greens six ways and more, and by the end you should be able to make any color you want, or know why you can't.

In addition, you'll work on the painting of your choice each week to reinforce the knowledge. You can sign up online here, or visit the Art Center to register.

On a more serious note, if you've been reading this blog for a while you know that I take the health of our environment very seriously. Those of you who recently enjoyed my snowmen you might be interested to know that thousands of the recently gathered to protest global warming. I think my twelve are among them....

Have a wonderful new year!

Happy New Year, Shoreline, daily painting by Everglaes artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2012-01-01T06:31:00.000-05:00

Shoreline, 2012, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 8"x10"

Happy New Year!
Health, Abundance and Joy are my wishes for you this year

Last year I created a long list of goals and plans, andworked hard to complete them. This yearI’m taking a different approach. While I'll still have goals in mind, I wantto g simplfy and get down to basics . Here goes!

With thanks to Chris Brogan for the idea, choosing three words to focus on for the year reallyworked for me and helped me in a variety of situations. My words for 2011 were love, focus and growth. They worked so well that I almost kept them foranother year. Since they’ve become a partof me now, and in the spirit of “growth” I decided to move on and choose newones. This year my words will becourage, patience, and discipline.

Courage, to help face new challenges in my personal life, in my artwork, and in our rapidly changing world, Patience, to give all thingsthe time they need in my art, and especially in dealing with others, and Discipline of body and mind, to keep me on the path to doing the hard work that means success, and to remindme to do what’s right even when it’s hard.

These words will be guideposts to help me grow both as aperson and as an artist, and I’ll put them on my bulletin board at home and atthe studio, and drag them into mind when I’m uncertain or waffling.

How do you start fresh each year? Do you find positiveways to celebrate what you’ve achieved and move forward? Do you use symbolism or take action torefresh and renew? Do you think ahead,to what you can do better or make plans and resolutions for the comingyear?

ArtWalk Wednesday and some specials

2011-12-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you!

Collector's like you make doing business a real pleasure.

I love starting the New Year fresh and clean, so I'm cleaning out the studio.

For ArtWalk this month, I'll be offering SPECIAL PRICING on a few of my older paintings. Not only that, but I'll ship for free in the US! So if there's something you've been watching, now is a great time to purchase.

ArtWalk

Wednesday, December 28

ONLY!

There will be some other specials, and treats for everyone!

5-p pm

*if you are not on the island, you can see much of my older work on my website. If you see something you like, and it's an older painting, contact me and we'll talk about a price to satisfy us both.

Ask about a lay-a-way plan!

And I'm wishing you a very
Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

to those who are celebrating

Merry Christmas!

One of the real joys

of the

Holiday Season

is the opportunity to say

Thank You

and to wish all of you

the very best for the

New Year!

Saw Palm Magazine, Painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

On Dan House Prairie, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Sold

Saw Palm is a literary and art magazine that began as a creative writing project for a class at the University of South Florida. It's fun, colorful, thoughtful, with a bit of an edge. I follow it because it follows a Florida lifestyle.

As an artist, every submission means that you might have to accept the rejection that invariably come, no matter how well known you get or how good the work. "If you can't do the time, (rejection) don't do the crime (submission.)" courtesy of my husband, retired law enforcement.

When I got up the gumption, I submitted some Everglades material and was delighted to discover that my submission has been accepted! A written piece was accepted to Saw Palm's Places to Stand in Florida, and two of my paintings will be published in the next issue.

My submission for Places to Stand in Florida is the introduction to my book, You and can see Places to Stand in Florida on Dan House Prairie here.

My apologies for last week's abundance of posts, some twice and some before their time. I work really hard at making what you get in your inbox meaningful to you. You can envision me using the the bad words of your choice when this happened, not once but twice! So sorry!

The studios will close at 2 pm on Christmas Eve day, so get your last minute goodies before then. We'll reopen on December 28th, the last Wednesday of the month for ArtWalk. Please join us for "Out with the Old, In with the New for our usual good cheer and some special pricing on many works of art.

Fiber! Heading Home by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-12-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

Heading Home, 2011 Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 8"x10"

I headed home tired earlier this week after having a great time decorating the palm trees in the courtyard of the Marco Island Center for the Arts. A fiber show is coming in January, an exchange program with some fiber artists from Maine. Marco artists will show in a gallery in Portland, Maine, summer 2012.

In order to generate excitement it seemed appropriate to herald the show with a leading act.

Some creative people

Some natural fibers, some project leftovers, and some great ideas

add up to some very fine, fibrous, figurative fugitives!

I'm an island girl at heart, and using nature's bounty suited me perfectly. We're hoping the wind isn't too hard on them. You'll have to visit the Art Center to see the rest! Thanks, Sandy and Joanne!

Fiber, Art Center, January. Don't miss it!

How to Make a Comment on a Blog, and Autumn Grasses, by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Autumn Grasses, 2011 © Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on Canvas, 18"x24"

With autumn now past and the dry season upon us, the grasses in the Everglades won't be as green again until middle of the wet season. They'll be turning gold and grey, and often beautiful purples as they dry out from lack of rain.

I've been posting this blog since 2007, and have met some wonderful artists and others online who have enriched my life. Sometimes a bond is formed through comments. Comments are also a great way to hear from friends, and from others interested in the same subjects.

People have told me that they have tried to comment on my blog but are unable to do so. Sometimes I get comments by email but not on the blog, so I'm going to give you a beginner's guide to commenting in the hopes of getting a few more comments!

There are several types of blogs, like Blogger (mine) and Wordpress. The process is just a little different on each but once you have done one. you should be able to do others. Mine's on Blogger, so I'll tell you how, here:

1. Find the place to make a comment

Find the Comment Section at the bottom of the each post. On mine, it's in the white box at the end of the written part of the blog, but before "older posts"

LinkWithin

Once your comment is made and you are identified, a verification box will come up. You must get all the letters and numbers right, and in the right case, for the verification to be complete.

5. Be Patient

Your comment will appear once I have approved it. I had a bevy of spam comments a few years ago, and check to make sure they are real comments before posting them. It's usually only a few hours.

Your comments are welcome and enjoyed by anyone who reads a blog. It's your chance to participate in an online conversation. And if it still doesn't work, thanks for trying and don't worry. I love getting your emails, too.

Are you shy? Clicking on "Like" or 1+ is a quiet way to participate!

Clean Air and Water, Swamp daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Swamp, 2011, © Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5

My soapbox, once again! Swamps need protection, too!

Dirty deals are being made in Washington, and Everglade’srecovery is threatened once more. TheEverglades suffer from excessive nutrient levels, the results of runoff fromagriculture, particularly big sugar. Excessive nutrients cause changes in the Everglades ecosystems

There are attempts to add Anti-clean air andAnti clean water riders to bills that need to be passed, but havenothing to do with clean air and water, and will work around 40 year old standards. If bills are passed with these riders attached, standards set for Evergladesrestoration will suffer.

Federal Regulation has been effective in turning around polluted spots. I grew up inGloucester, Mass, where a sewer “bubbler” in the harbor made swimming thereimpossible. There were few fish, and often astink. The Clean Water Act was thereason to sewer the city—not easy on heavy rock ledge. It was done, and the harbor began to improve. Forty years laterthe water in Gloucester Harbor sparkles and people can eat the fish they catchoff the docks. Success stories can befound around New England, and perhaps where you live.

Corporate concern for a cleaner planet is rare, and to bewidespread and effective, clean air and water regulations standards must beconsistent and mandated by federal regulation.

Most Florida legislators know that that the Everglades are important tothe well-being of the already stressed gulf, and to fisheries in FloridaBay, as well as the economics of our state, but may be outvoted on this legislation. They are also reliant on big business, particularly big agricultural concerns, and their votes are not always consistent with providing the best for our environment.

Let’s use our voteswisely to move forward rather than backwards, especially where our beautifulcountry is concerned. Let’s demand protection for the Everglades, with cleanair and clean water, and make sure our current legislators know how we feel.

Holiday Newsletter Excerpt - A word about Art Collectors

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Below is an excerpt from my Holiday newsletter. You can see the whole newsletter here and sign up to receive it from either my blog or my website.

Snowman #4, 2011, jo-Ann Sanborn
acrylic on canvas, 7"x5"

Collector 's Corner

YOU are special! People who buy original art are a special breed. They know that originals are special and unique.

While "something" for the walls can be purchased in many big box stores, meeting the artist, discussing your special requirements, and choosing the perfect piece to complement your life and your home is something that will be remembered and enjoyed for years to come.

You will own something one of a kind, and truly unique. It will say "quality" to the friends and family who visit your home.

Box store paintings may fade over time, and be easily disposed of when your decor changes. After a while you don't even see them on the wall.

An original artwork usually holds it's value, both in the cost you pay and in the joy it gives you over the years.

It's such a pleasure for me when someone says "your paintings make us happy!" It completes the circle for the work I do. Thank you!!

One more Snowman, a Winner and a Store

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Snowman #9

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

Hope you're enjoying this seasonal snowmen sampling! I promise to get back to the Everglades landscape soon. If you were not able to aquire one my painted snowmen this year, don't worry. I'm already thinking about making the Snowman Extravaganza an annual event. You can see the 2011 Snowmen here.

If you are in the frozen North land during a good snowstorm this year, please send me a photo of the snowman you or your family make as inspiration for next years group!

Congratulations to the winners of the Fall Painting Give-Away!

Shown here with their choice, "Catching the Light"

Three times a year I give away a daily painting to people who receive my newsletter. I'll ask someone for a number from one to 600. I'll write it down, and then look up who's name is next to that number on my email list. They win! The numbers change as people subscribe or unsubscribe, so I have no way of knowing who's name is even close to the selected number. I was delighted to see that people dear to my heart won this month!

You can be eligible by signing up for my newsletter, and once you are signed up you will be included in every drawing for as long as you receive the newsletter.

I'm trying something new. Promoting Sue Smith's book made me think that you might like some other things I like, so I've started an Amazon store.

Featured are things I like and use, books I've found especially useful, as well as some things you might like as gifts for artists or people who like art. I'll see where this goes and will change it out seasonally. In any case, if you like shopping at Amazon, look for MY AMAZON STORE it on the right sidebar of my blog.

Flag to fly over Marco Island

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

Faye Biles and artist Carolyn Burger viewing

painting done by the 12 Artist Colony at the Esplanade artists

The Artist Colony at the Esplanade was recently asked to participate in a project to bring a large American flag to fly over Marco Island. We decided to each interpret "flag" in our own way, and artist Lee Horton merged the paintings together into one frame.

The painting was given to the Flag Committee, to help raise awareness and to be used as a fundraising tool. On Monday, the painting was in the lobby of Marco Island City Hall, where the Flag committee was to make a presentation.

The painting will be on display at Iberia Bank for you to see. Since I didn't get a close-up, you'll have to visit it there to guess which artist did which painting? Some might surprise you!

To see more of the work of the Artist Colony artists, visit the website here.

Another Snowman, and reflection on "Intentions"

2011-12-05T06:04:00.000-05:00

Snowman #5

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

Another snowman--I had such fun painting them!

Along with the holidays comes a lot of end of year work for me. Alyson Stanfield, Art biz guru, taught me to reflect on what I've accomplished. We tend to forget the positives and focus on the negatives, and looking at what you've accomplished is a great way to lift your spirits for the Holidays. Not too much more will be completed before Christmas, so now is a good time to reflect on what's done.

I'll show you what some of my personal goals were and what parts of them were accomplished. It really helps me to have a list like this, although life is certainly much more fluid than any list. The list is really meant for personal use, so it's a little confusing. But with the list, it's a simple matter of turning something red when it's done. When I have a little time a look at the list and it reminds me of what I had set as priorities.

The "reds" are things I've worked on or done, the "blacks" are remaining to do. I'm proud of what did get done, and the always present gaping lapses will be reevaluated for inclusion in 2012.

What's your method for keeping yourself on track?

“Intentions”2011

In the Studio

Work to complete twopaintings a week in addition to three dailies

not quite, but did better on the daily paintings

Solo Show Feb - 25 new paintings completed

Continue to improve technical skills

Take at least one workshop – did Mitchell, February

Lookfor the “wow” factor in each painting working on this!

Learnmore about color values and how value is affected by hue.

Ongoing,read a couple more books, I can never learn it all!

Improve drawing through small studies

Accept commission work that forcesdrawing – 1 complete
Used sketchbook more often for preliminary drawings

Finishinventorying paintings

Catalogueat least 1 letter group per month or look forassistant!
(leftover - no progress again!

Spruce up Studio – Repainted, made shelves, purchased new chairs

Collectors

Improve collector relations

Betterrecognition for multiple purchases

Sent new book to collectors with 5 paintings or more

Sendpost cards for solo show

Developtestimonial page on website or blog?

still thinking about this. 2012?

Bettergift and appreciation recognition

Gift of book to multiple purchasers
Give post card to studio visitors

Purchasers of Studio Paintings

Sent a postcard or small watercolor thank you

Reach out to Everglades community

Participated in Friends of the Fakahatchee Safari - members

Donated to two support groups

Teaching

Color Confidence – January

Florida Landscape – Acrylic - March

Make handouts consistent with beginning year formatand info

Added “internet” homework assignments to expose studentsto wealth of info & ideas

Thinkabout adding a plein-air day class in the fall - didn't

TraditionalMarketing –
Update in January for year

Improveconsistency of marketing materials - better, can do better

Postcards - done

Rack cards done

Advertise monthly with Artist Colony

Advertise in Everglades Magazine – done, no date yet for printing

Developed and print book - done

Internet Marketing

http://joannsanborn.com

Upgrade website to newer version of FASO

Keepcurrent! Add new paintings and Events firstof every month

Change website to reflect my name forbetter recognition

Improveblog consistency - Yikes, needs work!

Assigndays for special topics?

Mon-Everglades,Wed-my work, Friday–Arts Com?.

Goback to dailys with "buy now" button?

Newsletter

Sent email newsletter but not regularly

Thinkabout breaking up newsletter and sending monthly again?

Improved Facebook Image

Twitter – OK for now

Added Google +

Arts Community

Holdfun event quarterly for Colony - didn't, will work on this in 2012

Marco Island Arts Advisory Committee – Arts Afire AwardsChairman

Marco Island Art League

Teach 2x yearly

Attend first Tuesdays - did when possible

Show in member shows - did whenever possible

Support financially or other as possible -
developed and chaired Luncheon for the Arts

National and Florida National Association of WomenArtists

Showed once in each

Florida Artist Group – show 1X, have to let membership drop, just can't do it all

Support other artists by attending their shows when possible.

As usual, life takes it's own path, and some things I intended didn't get done, and others took much more time or effort than I had though. I experimented and became much more comfortable with glazing, and am pleased with the results of several new paintings. I didn't foresee the Snowman Extravagamza but had a ball doing it and will most likely do it again. All artists have to be prepared to follow where the paint takes you FIRST!

All in all, I've made some progress and am pleased with the year. Later in the month I'll look ahead to the new year and make a new list of "intentions." to help guide me.

If you'd like to know more about some things to grow your art business, check out Alyson's book on the right hand side of the blog page. It's a great way to start the new year. You can put it on your Christmas list, or just give yourself a present. She;s giving some free gifts along with it, too!

This works for non-artists, too. Think about the various aspects of your life and how you'd like to improve over the next year. It's hard to get ahead when you don't know where you're going, and a list of intentions can help lead the way.

Artist Sue Favinger Smith, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-12-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Did you choose a SNOWMAN? The Snowman Extravaganza was a fun event with a nice turnout.  Look for new Snowman Extravaganza this time next year!  Some of you in the frozen north will be able to make your own snowmen soon. If you do, send me a photo for next year's inspirations!

Today, something a little different. I'm excited to recommend artist Sue Favinger Smith's new book, Ancient Wisdom: Emerging Artist.

Sue and I have never met in person, but we met online a few years ago when we were both members of the Daily Painters Google Group.  At the time it was a vibrant, interactive group containing terrific questions and answers for evolving and established artists and contained a wealth of information on making and marketing art for someone seeking. You can read it, archived online here if you'd like.

Sue asked for artists who had chosen art as a profession later in life to contact her to be interviewed for her Ancient Artist Blog. While I was a little uncomfortable being labeled "ancient, to her someone over 50, I was not one to pass up potential opportunity, (she has a chapter in the book on Knowing Your Opportunities) I sent her an email volunteering myself. We spoke for quite a while on the phone, and a delightful interview was the result.

We've kept in touch by commenting on each others blogs from time to time and cheering each other's successes along the way. We both hold proud memberships in the National Association of Women Artists.  Recently she contacted me to tell me she was sending me a copy of her new book.

I was trying to explain Sue Smith to my husband last night. "She's deep," I said, "an old soul with much wisdom sort of way. Her work is rich and thoughtful, as are her words. The fact that she likes me is an honor. "

The book came, and I opened it, delighted to have it and pleased for her. Imagine my surprise to find a comment I had made ON THE BACK COVER of her book! Talk about honor, it brought tears to my eyes. I had said "Your Emerging Artist Business Plan is fabulous, Sue. It's a path for life as well as art, and a gift for anyone willing to accept it. There's a depth here for everyone regardless of level. Thank You!"

I meant it. If you'd like to add Ancient Wisdom: Emerging Artist to your art library, you can get it for yourself through my Amazon affiliate link below. By the way, at what age would YOU be ancient?

Snowman Extravaganza at ArtWalk!

2011-11-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Snowman #2, 2011, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

Please join me

for the first ever

Snowman Extravaganza!

(see opportunity below!)

And some spiced wine and cookies!

Artist Colony at the Esplanade

Rightside Studio

November ArtWalk

Wednesday, November 30

5-8 PM

Here's how the Snowman Extravaganza will work:

No one will be admitted until 5 p.m. when the snowmen will be unveiled

One dozen snowmen, maybe a few more will be displayed on their own special easels.

Your choice, first some first served.

$75.00 each -- Half the usual price of my daily paintings

This is the only date/time to obtain your dated and signed collectible snowman (unless repeated next year!)

If you can't be on Marco for this event, ask a friend to pick out a special snowman for you.

Perfect for giving, or treat yourself

Mindful, Summer's Clouds daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Summer's Clouds, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

Time is flying, and summer's clouds are all but a memory. While writing my book, I searched for a word to describe the way the Everglades landscape responds to winter, spring, summer, fall, while retaining two distinct seasons, the wet and the dry. While the flora and fauna of the glades environment are driven by the wet and dry, the change of light and heat as the earth revolves around the sun also have an effect.

I finally settled on "mindful." It means "aware" actively attentive, or deliberately keeping something in mind.

We are coming into the dry season. As more and more humans journey to South Florida for the dry, warmer weather, the animals and plants of the Everglades are taking actions to help them survive without much water for the next few months.

If you like knowing more about the Everglade environment, and enjoy looking at images of my paintings, you'll enjoy my book, Embracing the Everglades. Is it on your holiday gift list? It can be purchased online directly from my website and is available at my studio in the Esplanade.

And for the holiday season, "mindfu' seems to fit. I'm asking you to be mindful as you shop this season.

You can be mindful of the meaning of Christmas, a time of kindness and sharing and joy and giving.

You can be mindful of the gifts you select. Who made them? Are they made by a real person, with love and care? Can someone answer your questions about how the gift was made?

You can be mindful of where you purchase. Will you get great customer service from someone who knows how hard you are working to get just the right gift? Will you get help when you want/need it?

You can be mindful of the merchants on Marco Island this year who might be suffering in the dismal economy and will appreciate your business. Bonus to you--no traffic, plenty of parking, and great customer service!

So, be mindful that you're getting exactly what you want this season, and that your money is going where you are pleased to have it go.

Please join the Artist Colony at the Esplanade for last Wednesday's ArtWalk, Wednesday, November 30, 5-8. for our Holiday Open House. I've got something special for you. Check in on Tuesday to learn the details!

See my next post for information about my first ArtWalk SNOWMAN EXTRAVAGANZA! I'll be serving a great mulled beverage and delicious cookies too!

Thanksgiving, Out on Jane's by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-11-23T07:03:00.000-05:00

Out on Janes, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on Canvas, 16"x20"

So much to be thankful for! For me Thanksgiving is a timeto reflect and really appreciate my life. I’ve never gone hungry, alwayshave had a roof over my head, a terrific and supportive family, a sustainingrelationship with my dear husband, and work I’ve found satisfying.

That doesn’t meanI’ve never had hard times. I have, but Itry not to focus on them. Get throughthem, learn from them, and move on. ThisThanksgiving I’ll focus on what I’m thankful for as a working artist.

I love my job.

There’sa beautiful world to paint.

My paintingsare recognizable anywhere as my own

The warm, wonderful andchanging light of South Florida provides daily inspiration

Ihave quality materials, and right now at least, enough of them

A supportive Artist Colony to share with and learn from.

A wonderful studio at a cost I can afford.

Studentswhere learning goes both ways.

Collectorswho respond to my work in a positive way.

Visitorsfrom all over the world who visit my studio and enrich my life.

And that’s just a start. Artists still need to eat, so I'll be cooking the Thanksgiving turkey. I'm thankful for that, too. What are you thankful for?

Have awonderful and thankful Thanksgiving holiday!

Sigh of a Breeze painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

Sigh of a Breeze, 2011, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 20"x24"

Sigh of a Breeze is not quite as yellow as it shows here. With the heavy amount of glazing I've been doing the paintings are just a little color heavy in the photos. Working on this. Sigh

Here's an update on my recent post about working with the Marco Island Academy. All projects and plans with the Artist Colony are off because of changes at the Academy that prompted the release of art instructor Bill Kobe. Sigh

Since the arts are known to promote the learning of math and science, this is a huge loss to students who were already involved in a number of art focused projects. Projects that involved students thinking about broader perspectives and providing them with knowledge that would enrich their lives no matter what their final occupation.

Bill was a terrific addition to the Marco Island arts community. In just a few short months he had initiated incentives at the Art Center, the Artist Colony, Bonita Art Center, and with a number of arts individuals in the community.

It's a small island, and every artistic voice helps us grow culturally. We'll miss him. Sigh

Wrong Blog! Daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-11-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

Stella, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 5"x5"

Wait, you're on the right blog! Come back! No palm trees or open prairie. But a DOG?

Let me introduce you to Stella, the dog of a friend. Stella's my friend, too. As long as I give her treats, anyway.

It's birthday time. She lovers her dog. Her dog loves her. She'll love it. And no, I won't make a habit of it.

Full of Promise, painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-11-14T06:19:00.000-05:00

Autumn Song, 2011, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on linen, 20"x24

We look at the beauty of the land surrounding us, and take a moment to savor the promise of the day. Autumn Song has taken on a richness and glow through layers of glazing and building up and cutting back.

Through a touch of good fortune and an instructor who believes in the arts and community, the Artist Colony at the Esplanade is working with the Marco Island Academy with the eventual goal of producing a film about the Colony, with a short clip about each individual artist.

The first step will be for the students to write an article for the school newspaper about their plans. Joshua, Jakob and Armando interviewed me, as founder of the Colony, for some background information, and about my work. They were well prepared, full of energy, and full of promise. The techno savvy and the energy at the school was full of promise, too. I'm excited about this opportunity!

Update! Instructor has left and project in limbo. Stay tuned!

Salute to Service, Flag daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

In honor of my father, Joseph A Sanborn,who served in WWII

To all those who serve our country, past and present

THANK YOU

This flag painting is one of twelve 5"x5" squares that have been created by the Artist Colony at the Esplanade on Marco Island. The finished piece will be donated by the artists to help raise funds for a large flag and Veteran's Memorial on Marco Island. Look for the finished piece at upcoming Veteran Events.

Luncheon for the Arts on Marco Island

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Bird Centerpiece

Calusa Garden Club

Last Friday's Luncheon for the Arts was a wonderful success, with about 215 people from all segments of Marco Island coming out to honor the arts. Harpist Kim Adamson provided delightful gathering music to get everyone in the mood and Forrest Nickols beautiful and inspiring photo of a rising heron in full plumage greeted everyone.

The reception table was exceptional, getting everyone in on time and solving any issues quickly and with grace. The table hosts were fabulous in both inviting people to the event and making them feel at home. Artists and dignitaries were sprinkled throughout the room.

The Marco Island Hilton Resort and Spa did a splendid job of feeding that many people without fuss or disturbance, and were able to offer free parking as well. Yummy chocolate cake completed the meal.

The Calusa Garden club provided centerpieces for each of the 22 tables, and a large display for the entrance. One lucky person at each table got to take one home. They were creative and distinctive and gave a wonderful, natural air to the event.

If you missed it, you can see the opening film, Rita Blitt's "Caught in Paint" here. And, if you couldn't come but want to see the arts remain strong on Marco, donate to the Marco Island Center for the Arts. A rebirth, or renewal is well underway, thanks to new Executive Director Lynn Holley and a supportive board.

Two regrets. I completely forgot about taking photos! Phooey! And only one of our seven City Council members, Mr Wayne Waldack, attended. Were the rest too busy to attend a free lunch in support of the arts? Their loss.

Luncheon, October Aftertoon daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-11-03T07:41:00.000-04:00

October Afternoon

acrylic on canvas, 5"x7"

I'm a little behind. The painting is an October afternoon, but I'm not getting around to posting it until November. It's been a really busy couple of weeks getting ready to present a Luncheon for the Arts, in support of the Marco Island Center for the Arts.

Over 200 people from all segments of the island community are expected. We've been filling goody bags in my living room. The wonderful image on the front of the bag by photographer Forrest Nichols makes it look like a flock of birds taking off.

The programs for the event were finalized last night, and my job this morning was to print them while I wrote to you! I had purchased extra ink knowing I would need it. BIG Glitch! I have a new printer, and the extra ink cartridge I had on hand was the wrong size. Same number, too big. Ugh.

Life is like that, and so is painting. You get it all planned out and fate has other plans. You can either roll with it or fight it. Sometimes I choose to fight, but today, I'll roll. It will get done, just later than I planned and the rest of the day will have to be adjusted to accommodate my error.

Sadly, I'd whine if there was anyone hear to listen, but hubby is still sleeping peacefully.

The luncheon will be tomorrow, at the Marco Island Hilton at noon. It's a one-hour FREE lunch, but it is hoped that you'll do your part by opening your heart to "support." If you haven't been invited and would like to come along. please let me know early today.

Meanwhile I'll put all this aside and spend the day in the studio, painting. That's really where I belong!

An Arm or a Leg, Stone Crab daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-11-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

Stone Crab, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

Florida Stone Crab season ishere, and the crabs are gorgeous with large, chunky bodies and elegant blacktipped claws. The crabs have eight legs usedfor swimming or walking and two developed into large claws used for pinchingand crushing prey and predators.

Stone crabs are much desired fortheir claw meat, which resembles lobster in texture and taste. Whenthe crabs are caught for food, it is most often the large, crusher claw that isharvested. The claws are designed to beremoved easily when the crab is in a life-threatening situation, and a crab maybe able to survive an attack by leaving a claw behind. Whenbroken in the right place, there is little blood loss and quick healing. Acrabber will grab the crab from behind and twist firmly. The claw pops off and the crab is thrown backinto the water where it will regenerate the lost claw.

Stone crabs can be found inshallow tidal areas with soft bottoms and places to hide, like rocks, jettiesand oyster reefs. Oysters are one oftheir favorite foods. In and aroundMarco Island they are caught in the Gulf from mid-October through mid-May inbaited traps placed on bottom

The meaty claws are sold for food, and are traditionally served with a mustard sauce. You can find some other great receipes here. While I don't like thinking abou the having an art or a leg torn off, I must confess that I like the idea that it's a renewable food source!

Natural World, Bright Light daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-10-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

Bright Light, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

I've felt connected to our natural world since I was a child. I'd stop to smell the breeze on the salty air of Gloucester, MA, where I grew up. I loved to find little a special rock, a beautiful leave, or a bits of sea glass for my treasure box. My garden here contains many such "bits."

With so very many people in the world now, (we're approaching seven billion!) it's easy to lose touch with nature. Our natural world needs the stewardship of those who care, and its hard to care if you are out of touch.

No matter where you are, try to enjoy a "quiet moment" each day, outside. Listen to the sounds of nature. Is it quiet, with nothing stirring, or do you hear voices of birds, insects and other animals going about their daily business?

Enjoy the magnificent beauty of the sky any time of day. Notice how the color blue changes from the horizon to the zenith. Mark the edges of day by greeting the sunrise or noting the day's end.

What's the smell on your breeze?

October Artwalk on Wednesday! Technical Difficulties again, and Art Luncheon

2011-10-25T06:00:00.000-04:00

Artist Colony at the Esplanade

October ArtWalk

Wednesday, October 26th, 5-8 p.m

Grid, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 30"x30"

Anyone who knows me knows that I struggle with the technical aspects of the new age. Every now and then I suffer from an embarrassing technical glitch. I push the wrong button, add the wrong code, or something unexpected happens.

Did I preview my post? Yes! Did I see there was a problem? Yes! Did I try to fix it? Yes! Oops! I am so very sorry if you received a "mess" from me yesterday. Gone to you WRONG with no way to stop it! UGH! Despair!

I'd rather try something and get it wrong than not try at all, but have a very red face when it involves YOU! Please accept my deep apology.

In other news, there will be a Luncheon for the Arts, in support of the Marco Island Center for the Arts at the Marco Island Hilton on November 4th. Parking and the luncheon is free, but there will be a request for support. New Executive Director Lynn Holley has written a short film for the event! Reservations are required, so if you are on the island and would like to attend, please email me (joann@joannsanborn.com).

Florida Panthers, Panther Glade daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-04:00

Panther Glade, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on board, 5"x7"

There are only about 120 Florida panthers left in the wild. They live in and around the Everglades in only 5% of their historic range. They are often killed by cars, but earlier this year, unfortunately, one of them was shot and killed. The panther was found in April on private property bordering the Big Cypress National Preserve in the Everglades, and believed to have been shot within a week prior to its discovery.

The Florida Panther is listed as an "endangered" species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the killing is being jointly investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) special agents and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). So far no one has been charged with this crime.

The beautiful big cat is a reclusive animal, and most Floridians will never see one in the wild. I haven't, even though I've painted out their habitat for years. Learn more about Florida panthers you can attend the first annual Florida Panther Festival on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at North Collier Regional Park in Naples.

The Panther Festival is free, with the goal of promoting the safe coexistence of people, pets, livestock and panthers. To see a video and learn more, go to FloridaPantherNet.org.

Gator Passage, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-10-18T05:30:00.000-04:00

Gator Passage

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

The Everglades landscape is made up of such simple and ancient elements of the earth. Palms, water, prairies, and sky comprise almost every view. It should be simple to paint, especially after years of looking and learning about the environment.

But nature isn't simple. All of those elements are continually being redefined by the movement of the sun through the sky, the wind on any given day, various reflections, the movement of clouds as the day progresses, and any combinations of the elements.

Painting the magic of the Everglades is still a challenge for me, and although I've been experimenting a bit with other mediums and other ways of applying paint, I expect to find challenges in painting the Everglades landscape for quite a while yet.

Natural world, Inlet daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-10-14T07:02:00.000-04:00

Inlet, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

I'm fascinated by inlets in the Everglades, places were the water and sawgrass disappear around a bend. I wonder what's just beyond what I can easily see. Who lives there and what are their lives like? Could an alligator be lurking there waiting for his breakfast, or a great blue heron waiting to snatch up a fish. And if they do, how will it affect the natural world THEY live in?

There is a whole natural world going on a level usually ignored or unnoticed by us. Like being in an elevator with foreign speakers--we hear something, but usually don't have a clue what is really going on.

We may hear a crow outside the window, loud and raucous. It might annoy us and we might try to shoo it away. What's really happening? Is he out to drive us nuts or does he see a snake or a cat and is warning his family of eminent danger.

Could it be that in the natural world, living things are going about their daily lives with many aspects paralleling human life? What are we missing? Drama? Distress? Or maybe just the hint that it's time for a nice nap.

Depth and Mystery, Morning Light painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-10-11T05:00:00.000-04:00

Morning Light, 2011. Jo-Ann Sanborn

8"x10", acrylic on linen board
Sold

Our landscape is full of wonderful complicated colors full of depth and mystery, not always easy to capture. I used layers of glazing to get the rich glow in the background.

I painted today's painting on linen board, a new support for me. I've tried painting on stretched linen in the past and found that it would stretch and sag beyond my comfort zone as I scrubbed in the many layers of acrylic paint.

Using quality materials is important to me. Canvas on board is the choice for my daily paintings, and when my custom supplier stopped making them, I had to look for another source. I did some research, ordered bits of what seemed interesting, and am in the process of try out several new types.

One supplier had an acrylic primed linen on board, but not in the small size I like best for my landscapes. Still, the thought of being able to use linen with my type of painting made me want to give it a try, so I ordered three of the 8x10's and fell in love.

Linen takes up more paint than the cotton and it feels different. Better? Probably.

We'll see where the relationship goes, and cost is a concern. Still, I'm excited about Wind River Arts acrylic primed linen on gatorboard. You might like it, too.

Outspoken, Studio painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-10-07T06:00:00.000-04:00

Outspoken, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on Canvas, 36"x24"

Outspoken is about boldness. The brushstrokes are heavy and defined, and the palm dominates the background. The sawgrass is dense and barely let the palm through but it somehow got a foothold and prevailed. The light glows softly and the result pleases me. I'm painting again!

Finishing the book Embracing the Everglades, redoing the studio, and updating my website has really cut into my painting time. While I've been creating, I haven't been painting as much. The endorphins are high when I view a blank canvas, and the discipline of painting at least a little almost every day can be as addictive as a daily run for some people. I'm anxious to get back to a regular schedule.

Sometimes, for an artist, a break can be refreshing. Somehow the brain is still working on painting, and when you go back you find that you've figured something out, grown in another direction, or have learned something new. Your style may have changed a little because of the break, because you have, too.

So I'm looking forward to the next few months. Marco will be energized by the return of the snowbirds. The Everglades will be more inviting to visit with fewer mosquitoes and showers. I'll be back to painting a regular schedule.

I'll be experimenting with some new techniques. I want more texture, more movement and interest in the brushwork, but also want the interior glow of a luminous painting. Can these be both obtained in the same painting? Glazing? Transparent Color? Substrata? Additives? We'll see.

New Book! Embracing the Everglades by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-10-05T06:00:00.000-04:00

Embracing the Everglades

a book about the Everglades

by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Done! I've spent any available time in the last six months putting together a book of my paintings. Some of the paintings in Embracing the Everglades go back years, and others are new. It's been fun to revisit the older paintings. Some are better than others, and some, good or bad, will always be favorites. Some make me think of the challenge of painting them, and others fairly flew off the brush.

Many of you have one or more of my paintings in your home, and I thought of you often as I complied and edited the book. I count you among my friends, and am very appreciative of your support and confidence in me.

It's a self-published book, and I was somewhat limited by my own photography issues. I know some photos are not perfect, but felt it was worthwhile to include the painting. I've written and re-written, edited again and again, and am sure you'll find a typo or two. UGH!

As I began to learn about the Everglades, I found much of the written material available was overly simplified or too scientific, not easy for a layman to digest. What's a hydroperiod, really? In many cases the material was contradictory or arbitrary. So I've included information I was able to discover about the Everglades and how its systems work, and used my paintings to illustrate the landscape, and also how humans interact with it.

I believe that a healthy Everglades is important to the Gulf of Mexico and to our planet. I've included information about how to get involved if you'd like to help protect and preserve the Everglades. A dollar from the sale of each book will go to Everglades protection.

If you'd like see a few pages, it's over on the right-hand side of the page. I've had a great time putting it together. Hope you'll enjoy Embracing the Everglades!

Bras for LIFe Fundraiser

2011-10-02T09:30:00.000-04:00

Heavenly Bodies

Jo-Ann Sanborn

BRAS FOR LIFE has a website!

You can see all of the wonderful entries into this fun Marco Island Center for the Arts and American Cancer Society on Marco Island fundraiser through the miracle of the Internet.

Click to view the BRAS FOR LIFE website

On the Bras for Life site, comments (in the information at the end of the post) are welcome and all suitable will be published. Use "anonymous" if you prefer to remain private.

If you place a bid, your information will be kept private and you will only see the highest bid appear under the bra. Bid information can also be called into the Marco Island center for the Arts. (239-394-4221)

Bid information on the bra site will be updated daily until 4 p.m. on October 6th, the day of the Auction.

Auction

October 6th, 6:30

Marco Island Center for the Arts

1010 Winterberry Avenue

Marco Island, FL 34145

Hope to see you there!

ArtWalk tonight!

2011-09-28T08:01:00.000-04:00

ARTWALK TONIGHT!

5-8 Wednesday, September 29th!

Oh, dear! Have to admit that I didn't get today's daily finished. It was a little larger than usual, 8x10 but that's no excuse. I know you enjoy seeing works in progress, so thought I'd post anyway.

So, what distracted me? First, I had a visitor to the studio and just had to enjoy his beautiful outfit.

Second, this happy heron came calling. Who could resist spending some time watching him?

If it goes well today I'll have the above painting finished and at ArtWalk at the Artist Colony on Marco tonight. What will be happening?

Check out my Studio Renovations!

Betty's Mom's 90th Birthday!

Bras for Life on display!

A wonderful collaborative painting by the Colony Artists!

(take a chance to win it!)

Refreshments and music!

If you are on Marco, don't miss it!

5-8 Wednesday, September 29th!

Heavenly Bodies preview at ArtWalk

2011-09-26T06:00:00.000-04:00

Heavenly Bodies is my entry into the "Bras for Life," a breast cancer fundraiser to be held at the Marco Island Art Center for the Arts on October 6th. The bras are all cleverly designed to be a fun play on words. The members of the Marco Island Artist Colony who made bras will preview them at this months ArtWalk, Wednesday, September 28 from 5-8 pm.

If you attend, in addition to the bras, you can wish Betty Newman's mom a Happy Birthday. She'll be 90! You'll also see the Artist Colony first collaborative artwork, and can take a chance on winning it!

You will also be among the first to see renovations to my little world, my section of the studios. I've been wanting to paint since we moved in two years ago, and never liked the green walls. So I went to work, got a little help from my friends, and my bit of Artist Colony space went from this

to THIS in just three days.

It's really quite grand and I'm thrilled beyond words. Come see for yourself!

Twelve Palm Trees

2011-09-23T06:35:00.001-04:00

Twelve Palm Trees

by the Artist Colony at the Esplanade

The Artist Colony at the Esplanade is just about to start the third year in our present location. We're very grateful that in this dismal economy we have such terrific space to work in. We've been a bright spot for Marco Island, drawing people from afar to visit our studios and see what's new.

Today's painting is a first! Its a collaborative painting, done in part by each of the artists. Artist and photographer Lee Horton, conceived the idea. He asked each of the artist in the Colony to paint a three-inch interpretation of a palm tree. He then assembled the paintings into a shadowbox and took the above photo.

They are fabulous! Lee took the finished mini-paintings and framed them all in a shadowbox to create this beautiful and collectible artwork. Can you guess which artist painted which piece? Visit our website to give you a clue! (Hint, mine is at top right)

The painting is on display at Rightside Studio. If you like it, you can take a chance to win it in a drawing later. I've already bought my ticket!

With a little help from my friends, A New Day daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-09-20T05:30:00.000-04:00

Before the Show, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

$150 framed and shipped

Things are heating up in the studio. I made a decision to upgrade my space a little since it looks like the Artist Colony might have another year in our wonderful Esplanade location. (picture me knocking on wood)

What started out as a small painting project quickly blossomed into a huge renovation! I somehow thought that I could do it myself. I made a plan, bought the materials, gathered my tools, and went to work. It quickly became apparent that I was totally delusional about my time, my strength and my tools. Reinforcements were necessary, and quick!

Fortunately for me, a family friend just happened (thank you, God!) to be on Marco, and came to my aid with superior tools and some better ideas. That, and the help of another friend who has been so good to me in so many ways quickly put the project back on track. I'm very grateful to them both, and also to my studio mates who are both patient and supportive.

The "sticks" are gone, some beautiful floating shelves have taken their place. By the time of my next scheduled shift on Wednesday the painting should be done and I'll be putting things back together. Stop by at the next ArtWalk, September 28th and help me celebrate! Photos, and more on our exciting September ArtWalk soon.

Learn, learn, learn!

2011-09-16T06:00:00.000-04:00

Quiet Calm, 2011, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on Canvas, 24"x36"

available

The list of classes at the Marco Island Center for the Arts has been posted on their new website. There's still a few kinks to work out, but you'll be able to see the options and to sign up right there!

I'll be leading a critique class in November. I say leading, because that's what I really believe critique is about. Critique is about options.

You may have painted the best possible painting, but along the way you've made choices. Once choice leads to another, and sometimes the focus of the painting is lost as well.  We'll review the principles of art, and explore successful innovation.  We'll have fun, and talk a lot of art with plenty of time for painting, too. There won't be instruction in any special medium so you can choose your own. You can sign up for my critique class here.

I'm really excited about the quality of some of the workshop instructors this year.
One of my favorites is artist Dreama Tolle Perry. She and her partner host the delightful radio talk show Artists Helping Artists, and she's the author of several books as well.  Dreama walked into my studio last year and used my clear over-the door- shoe holder turned paint storage as a hint for artists on her show!

Her work is colorful, cheerful, and heartwarming. She'll be teaching a three day workshop on Marco Island in January.  You can sign up for her class either on the Art Center's website or from Dreama's workshop page. In any case, sign up early as she will only take 15 students and many of her other locations have already sold out!
Continuing to learn is important to an artist, otherwise we get stale.

Think about expanding your horizons and challenging yourself with a class or workshop. You have something to look forward to, and you'll be pleased with the results!

Odds and ends

2011-09-13T06:30:00.000-04:00

Here's just a few things that occured during my blog hiatus. I received this photo from one of my collectors and was delighted to see my work in this lovely setting.

I began cleaning the garage. I was very careful reaching into dark corners, fearful of the brown recluse spider. My garage had gotten to the point whare a recluse would be right at home! Didn't finish this, still working!

Lynn was the lucky winner of the quarterly daily painting drawing. I draw a winner quarterly from those who receive my quarterly newsletter. You can sign up here. Once you receive the newsletter, you are eligible for as long as you receive it.

I'm redoing our website. If you haven't visited for a while you can see progress here. In addition, I hope to have a big announcement by the end of the month. Stay tuned!

An Abstract Painting

2011-09-09T07:01:00.000-04:00

Abstract Grid

acrylic on canvas, 30x30

Good morning. While I still haven't resolved all the issues and work I had hoped to complete by taking a month off from writing this blog, I've missed you all and have decided that this blog, despite some problems with it, is important to me.

I've been experimenting with both methods and materials, and really enjoyed doing this abstract piece. While the Everglades landscape continues to be my muse, doing something completely different expands our thoughts and challenges us in new ways.

In this piece, I used tape to block off the grid in the beginning, and added layers and layers of paint and glazes and more tape on and off, until the depth I was working toward was created. Some layers were glazed on lightly, in other cases opaque paint was used. There's a bit of gold in there, too.

I'll show you some other new work and let you know what's going on in the arts on Marco Island as we go along. In the meantime check my website for upcoming classes. Thanks for waiting me out!

Pondering, by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-08-02T06:00:00.004-04:00

I'll be pondering for a while. You'll hear from me now and again but without the regularity of the first 600 posts!

Some larger paintings are calling to me, and I need to work on them without the distraction of the daily paintings. There's another project I'm working on that will be a surprise. As always, I'm doing some art community work, this time working to sustain the future of Marco Island's Art Center. Let me know if you want to help.

I'll be teaching in the fall and again in 2012. A Method for Critique will be information that you can use in reviewing your own work or should you be jurying. We'll cover some principals of art, and when they work and when they don't. Bet there'll be some great discussion there! You can see the dates/times on my website, under events, so sign up early.

I love my FASO website, but it needs to be updated and I need the time for that. I need to consolodate my emails, spend some time on my email list, and regroup. Decide what's important to others, and what I can let go.

Combined with family responsibilities, I'm not going to be sitting around in fuzzy slippers eating bon-bons, although I'd love to do that, for maybe an hour some time.

And I'll be back, once I figure out if I'm writing for myself, my collectors, my artist friends, the arts community or any/everyone, and what's the best outlet for connecting and sharing information.

In the meantime, you can "like" Sanborn Everglades Art on Facebook or connect with me on Twitter (twitter.com/jsanborn) or add me to one of your circles in Google+ Let's keep in touch. Otherwise, I'll miss you!

For a wedding! Place Cards by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-29T06:00:00.009-04:00

A friend of mine got married lately. She speaks fluent Mandarin, and had ties to China through politics and business, and wanted an Asian theme. Like I've done for friends and family for years, I painted place cards for her.

She wanted three different images so she could use the place cards to show the entree choice of the guests. So lanterns, vases, and mums represented beef, chicken, or vegan. I drew the images and hand-colored them, and off to the calligrapher they went.

I didn't do the calligraphy, but enjoyed seeing them finished, and my young friend was pleased.

For the Love of Cats, Here comes trouble daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-27T06:00:00.027-04:00

Here comes Trouble, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

It's the Cat's Meow!

ARTWALK TONIGHT!

Artist Colony at the Esplanade on Marco Island

5-8 P.M

FOR THE LOVE OF CATS

joining us tonight for a special evening

Cat and Kitty Paintings!

Refreshments! Food! Music!

Prizes for EVERYONE who visits all three galleries!

600th post! Moonrise painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-25T06:00:00.025-04:00

Moonrise, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on canvas, 15"x30"

Today I"m posting my 600th post! Since 2007 I've written about my own artistic journey, the Everglades environment that I adore, about collecting art, and the local or expanded arts community.

Who's my audience? Artists? Collectors? Everglades lovers? Local art aficionados? Family?  It's a varied group, and I'm grateful for each of you!

Every artists knows that not every day at work produces a great painting.  This is especially true when you work each painting as though it's a new idea with a new solution. Sometimes I'm satisfied and they get sold. Other times they get reworked until there's no life left in them and they get tossed. Once in a while struggle of reworking brings on a miracle or a new idea or a revelation. Growth, the goal!

It's not easy for me to keep up with the technical aspects of the age. I know I'm at the end of the pack and gasping as I look at the hill ahead and try to stay in the race. Still, I've just joined Google+ and love it, and have Square as my credit card, and love it, too. Proof that some old dogs aren't afraid to try something new.

I though about quitting the blog, but I'm not quite ready for that yet. It's been a journey of discovery and learning, and I've made some great friends along the way. There will be some changes, though I'm not sure just what yet.

In the meantime, enjoy my newest painting, Moonrise.   And thank you for traveling with me!

2011-07-22T06:00:00.002-04:00

If you've read my last few posts, you know I've been talking about the Everglades environment and how it works. I'll continue, but sometimes a break is nice and a visit to the beach is in order.

Marco Island Beach

There are many benfits to a visit to the beach. Even light waves will send negative oxygen ions into the air around you.

Ahhhhh. Hope it works for you, too.

Hardwood hammocks, Hammock daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-20T06:00:00.026-04:00

Hammock, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

More Everglades:

Once much larger, these ancient sub-tropical forests serve many important purposes in the Everglades. Hardwood hammocks develop on slightly higher ground that floods infrequently. A little rise in elevation can support the growth of a mature hardwood forest including royal palm, cabbage palm, live oak, gumbo limbo, mahogany and oak.

The hardwood hammocks provide homes to most of the Everglades mammals, who find shelter in their branches and roots. The tree leaves form a dense canopy which shades the forest floor and provids relief from the relentless tropical sun from the sun during the hotest part of the day. Reptiles and birds, too, call the hammocks home.

The hammocks are damp, and ferns and air plants thrive in their moisture-laden air, and rare native orchids multipy and bloom. The tree roots and leaves prevented erosion, and help remove pollutants from the water.

Sloughs, rhymes with blues! Daily painting by Everglades artist JoAnn Sanborn

2011-07-18T06:00:00.042-04:00

I'm continuing another week or so with my Everglades story:

As seasonal rainfall accumulates in the lake region, water overflows onto the prairies and begins a long slow journey to the gulf. Over time, sloughs have formed. Sloughs (rhymes with blue) are marshy channels, dotted with tree islands. Some are quite deep and will hold life-sustaining water throughout the year.

Because of the water flowing around them, the tree islands have developed into teardrop or lozenge shape, formed by the water flow. Usually smaller than the hardwood hammock forests, they provide nesting sites for birds and shade and protection to species that feed on the open prairie.

Recent excavations show that the tree islands may have developed on discarded refuse from ancient human habitation, and the others have formed from an uprise in the limestone.

FYI:
I've got a few of the daily paintings left over from 2008 &9. They'll be on special for $50, no frame or free shipping, in the studio till the end of the month. If you're away and see one you like, you can email me.

Summer Newsletter, Friends of Mine daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-15T06:15:00.000-04:00

Friends of Mine, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

Summer Newsletter out today!

Seasons, What's in the Water, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-13T06:04:00.031-04:00

What's in the Water, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

Mindful of the movement of the sun creating the familiar seasons of winter, spring, summer, and fall, life in the Everglades revolves around just two seasons, the wet and the dry.

From June until November heavy afternoon rains soak the marshes, flood the prairies, and fill the aquifers. Humidity of over 90% and temperatures in the 90s are common. These hot, wet conditions bring significant changes to the Everglades landscape. Animals, dependent on water holes in the dry season begin to disperse. Plants begin a cycle of re-growth. Mosquitoes and other insects increase in great numbers, and fish spawn and flourish.

Everglade skies grow quiet as the wet season gives way to the dry.There's less threat of rain, the water retreats, and the lush greens of summer turn to gold and then into grays as the grasses dry. Migrating birds return and fish, frogs, and other creatures of the Everglades seek out the holes that alligators have enhance to find enough moisture to keep them alive.Fire danger increases.

Human, following a path centuries olds and looking for relief from frigid northern winters, migrate south to enjoy the climate. Native Everglade plants and animals go into survival mode until the life-giving rains begin again,.

Early Evening, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-11T12:47:00.021-04:00

Early Evening, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 7"x5"

Winding southward from Orlando, the Florida landscape flattens and slopes gently into a broad marshy swath known as the Everglades. Various sources attribute the name as coming from Native Americans who called it Pa-hay-Okee, ttranslating into "grassy waters," from the Latin word “glades” as beautiful, or the old English for “a grassy place.” Supporter of its preservation, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, called it “river of grass.”

The Everglades is all of these things, and more. Response to the place varies widely. Some say it’s a miserable place, full of bugs and snakes and dark secrets. Others know it for its magnificent sunsets, mysterious wetlands, and exotic wildlife. The world has recognized the importance of the Everglades and named it a World Heritage Site.

In addition to serving as one of our world’s important natural purifying and providing systems, the land supports many species of flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world. Over 60 endangered or threatened species call the Everglades home, and its glades and dells host a multitude of orchids, some found nowhere else in the world.

The Everglades environment is made up of a complex system of interdependent habitats. They include cypress swamps, hardwood hammocks, open prairies, deep water sloughs, and deep mangrove fringes sloping gently into the marine environment of the Florida Bay.

This is the landscape that has become my inspiration and my muse. I'll write more about the Everglades in the next few weeks. Some of it will be revised information that I've written before, and some will be new. Let me know what you think. Thanks!

2011-07-08T06:36:00.000-04:00

Game On, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 8"x10, "

Somehow the palette knife brings out the sailor in me.

There is nothing more peaceful than a boat under sail with a light wind and blue sky. Those moments are priceless, but all too few on the open sea.

I've only raced once, and found the nearness of so many other boats racing across the surf to the same mark a bit unnerving.

Still, sometimes a little competiion brings out the best in us.

Art Collectors, End of the Day daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-06T06:17:00.002-04:00

End of the Day, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

Artists love someone who purchases original art and brings it into their home to be displayed, viewed and enjoyed. A few years ago only one percent of the American population purchased original art. That may be changing as more people find and purchase affordable original art over the Internet. Still, only a small portion of our population knows and values original art.

Artists hope that once a person owns a piece of original art, they will become a collector. A collector is someone who completes the circle of art for the artist. Because they value what the artist has created, and purchase it, the painting has done its job and touched someone.

That artwork drew someone in, pleased them, made them think, or caused them to remember. This, for most artists, completes a circle. It supports us and allows us to continue, too! Sometimes a collector wants to know more about the process or inspiration of the artist. Other collectors have no interest in anything but the artwork.

A true collector chooses works thoughtfully, and for more reasons than the colors of a piece match their current sofa. A collector knows their own taste, and knows that the work they choose will fit into their space and their life and live happily there. They will purchase directly from an artist, or from a gallery they can trust. They know that the artwork they chose needs to withstand the test of time and they want to ensure good craftsmanship and good quality

At the end of the day, a collector knows that the journey of discovering and collecting art can be as creative as the work of the artists who create and that their collection will bring them lifelong pleasure. If you’re reading this, you may be one of mine!

Happy Independence Day, USA

2011-07-04T06:00:00.002-04:00

Beach! Family Reunions! Parades! Picnics! Concerts!

Boating! Baseball Games! Barbecues! Fireworks!

However you celebrate, Happy Independence Day!

Carrots Daily Painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-07-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

Carrots, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

Paul Cezanne once said “The day is coming when a single carrot, freshly observed (in a painting), will set off a revolution.” He was right! The daily painting movement has started a revolution in the way art is created and marketed today. You can see some of the daily painted carrots here, here, and here! There's even a carrot coloring page you can print (scroll down) for you here if you want to color your own!

The Painting a Day movement began in the United States in early 2004 and quickly spread around the globe. Using the public domain of the internet, artists are able to interact directly with the viewer changing the traditional way of marketing fine art through galleries. In addition, artists who traditionally worked alone are able to interact with their contemporaries around the world and share techniques, ideas, and camaraderie through technology.

The daily paintings of many of these artists are some of the finest representational work being done today. The work has become very collectible, being appealing in quality and subject as well as price to a wide range of art collectors who want to own original art.

Sometimes it's nice to vary a little from the Everglades! I paint nearly every day and post new, small daily paintings on the internet three times a week. I’m pleased to be recognized as a member of this group. Have a great weekend!

ArtWalk Tonight! Hidden Mystery, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-29T05:52:00.002-04:00

Hidden Mystery, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 7"x5"

Have you ever taken a canoe or kayak trip into the Everglades? The landscape is lushly dense and bathed in a green warmth. It's dark underneath the mangrove fringe with the light dancing on the canopy. The water is crystal clear, with small fishes darting in and out of the relative safety of the cagelike growth of the mangrove roots.

There's the feeling of the exotic, of danger nearby, and the damp, peaty smell of wet swamp. There are spider webs and the occasional snake, and you may even glide over an alligator tail or two.

This time of year an alligator might bellow for a mate or a mosquito buzz around you looking for a meal. You might hear the raucous call of a heron, but most of the time the whoosh of the boat moving thorough the water as you paddle is the only sound you'll hear.

There's mystery in the Everglades, but it keeps its secrets well hidden. You'll come out into the light again feeling like you've been birthed by some huge, green, beast.

See you at Artist Colony at the Esplanade ArtWalk tonight 5-8 p.m. If you visit all three galleries the glass of wine at Tara's is back for the summer!

Art Appreciators, Fun in the Sun daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-27T06:00:00.000-04:00

Fun in the Sun, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

Art appreciators fall into several categories. I categorize them by what I see is their relationship to the art. What's fun for you?

Spectator

Can't pass up an opportunity to walk through an Art Gallery or exhibition

Goes to Art Openings and outdoor art shows

Visits Art Museums at every opportunity

Reads press reviews and written materials about art

Communicator

Educates themselves about art through discussions with others

Loves meeting and talking with artists about painting

Attends art lectures and talks about the subject at the next dinner party

Likes art that provides opportunity for conversation

Seeker

Engages with art as a journey of self-discovery

Identifies with the deeper meaning of artworks

Learns about themselves from what they like and don't like

Enjoys art that brings memory and legacy

Collector

Chooses to purchase original art and bring it into their home

Knows that collecting art can be as creative as the work of the artist

Values the time spent in all of the above pursuits

May choose a theme or a focus for their collection

Loves the energy, mystery, creativity or peace that a new artwork can provide

Alone on the Beach, daily painting by Evergaldes Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-24T05:48:00.002-04:00

Alone on the Beach, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

When you take a moment from your busy day to notice the natural world around us, you may find that you walk away with a deep feeling of contentment. It’s restorative and restful, and quiets the soul deep inside ourselves and puts us in touch with the world.

You might find this inner peacefulness creeping up on you when walking alone on the beach, listening to the sound of the waves, or sitting quietly on dock at the edges of day. It might be found enjoying the frosty beauty of a northern morning or seeing a sunrise or moonrise you almost missed.

The Everglades landscape provides many such moments, especially in the summer when the drama of the wind and the rain play out their best games with the sun and the clouds. There’s the light on the water, and through the trees, and colors of the edges of the days, too.

These moments are gifts of nature, not to be missed, ignored, or squandered in small talk. When they are given to you, make a space in your life to appreciate them. If you don’t, after a while they won’t come at all.

2011-06-22T06:00:00.001-04:00

Sunshine and Palms, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on board6"x6"

What will your summer bring? In the northern hemisphere, the summer solstice begins on June 21. Solstice is a combination of two words, "sol" for sun, and "sistere" for to stand still.

The solstice marks the longest day in the year, and as the days lengthen, the sun gets higher in the sky each day until it almost seems to stand still. Worldwide, interpretation of the solstice has varied among cultures, with some celebrating fertility, with festivals and rituals. I'm long past that whole fertility thing!

The solstice is the official start of summer, with longer days, more sunshine, and increased outdoor activities. Here in Southwest Florida, it indicates a time of increased rainfall. The Everglades comes to the end of the dry season and welcomes the life-giving rain. Flora greens up and animals disperse to fine mates and raise young.

This year, at least on Marco Island, the heavy rains of summer are late and we're experiencing drought. In the last few days the clouds have been building, with rain just off the island. Hopefully, the rains will come soon.

Center Stage, daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-20T06:15:00.000-04:00

Center Stage, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

Sometimes out in the Everglades, a ray of light will come from between the clouds and highlight a scene or a piece of a scene. It shines on something that has been there all along but blended in and went unnoticed until that ray of light highlighted it's existence.

This little palm blended in with all the others. It wasn't until a ray of light highlighted it's personality that it stood out from the rest. Then it was transformed into a unique and glorious palm and just had to be painted.

According to Andy Warhol, we're all due a little time in the limelight, and will get in our 15 minutes of fame in due time. Guess this is true in the Everglades, too!

Morning on the River, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-17T06:36:00.000-04:00

Morning on the River, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 5"x7"

Enjoying the dawn with a good cup of coffee in hand is a simple morning pleasure. The sky delights with soft bands of pastel color changing from hour to hour and different from day to day. Dawn is counted as the time the sky begins to lighten until actual sunrise, which takes place the moment the sun peeks above the eastern horizon.

The time of today's painting has the sun firmly in control of the sky, but the softness of a new day is still evident, and the merry little breezes won't tease the water until later in the day.

Lee's Rose, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-15T06:00:00.010-04:00

Lee's Rose, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board 5"x7"

If you haven't been into Rightside Studios at the Artist Colony at the Esplanade lately, you may not know that there's been a change. Artist and photographer Lee Horton now inhabits the back, right-hand corner.

Lee has years of experience working for greeting card producers. His work has a bright and cheery feeling, and he'll show mainly watercolors, and some acrylics in Rightside. Lee is a professional photographer, too, and will make a family portrait for you, or photography your nephew's wedding on the beach. He has installed a beautiful old etching press in his new space and we're all green with envy. Most of us haven't used one since school, and for me that's many, many years ago!

The day after we interviewed and accepted Lee as a partner in Rightside, he brought each of us a beautiful fresh rose. We think he's a keeper, and hope you do, too. It's been quiet in the Studio since June 1, so stop in for a visit and welcome Lee if you are on the island.

Can't We Do Better? Looking Up daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-13T06:17:00.005-04:00

Looking Up, Jo-Ann Sanborn

5"x7", acrylic on board

I was most disappointed to see this upside down tank with a treadmill atop as our national statement at the Venice Biennale this year. . It's gotten some great reviews, but to me it's just another story of us beating ourselves up again. That story's old.

American artists have the freedom to create artwork with any message anywhere, anytime. How sad that these pieces, with their tired little story were chosen as our international message. Why not find and show pieces of Americans looking to the future with courage and hope and ability? Now that would surprise us!

The deadline for the US Grant for 2012 has already past, but let's think about 2013, If we're still here, let's start Looking Up!

Don't forget the Art League Second Tuesday Social tomorrow. Welcome new Executive Director Lynn Holley.

Rules of Engagement, One Quiet Palm, daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-10T06:00:00.029-04:00

One Quiet Palm, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5x7

One of the joys of having a public studio in the Esplanade on Marco Island, FL is the ability to engage with other artists and art collectors. The Esplanade is a gathering place, with three restaurants, a Starbucks, Ice Cream, and several other shops and artist studios. People sit and drink their morning coffee on benches in the shade of the palm trees and enjoy the sound of the fountain. They take their morning walk along the quay by the boats. By lunchtime people meet and greet for lunch at the popular CJ’s on the Bay, and later in the day people begin arriving to watch the sun go down behind the Star Bar.

It’s a great place for artist studios. Locals, Floridians, and visitors from all over the world wander in and out of the Artist Colony at the Esplanade. Some are art collectors, some are artists, some are looking for a handmade souvenir, some want a painting for their home. Some people are just looking for something to do beyond the beach.

No matter which category you fall into, when YOU walk into an artist’s studio or gallery, how do you feel? Do you engage with the art?

Are you afraid to speak, afraid of the hard sell?
Do you look at each painting and consider how it makes you feel?
Do you stand back with your hands behind your back impersonally hoping no one will speak to you?
Do you look at a piece and wonder how or why the artist was drawn to the subject?
Do you walk through fast, judging quickly or do you take the time to consider each artist's work or a special piece?
If you don’t like the art at all, do you think you must be polite anyway?
Do you know what draws you in, and why?

No matter how you approach the art, don't be afraid to engage with either the art or the artist. YOU, and your consideration of our work are the second half of our fulfillment. Creating the art itself is the first.

New Director for the Center for the Arts, Fun in the Sun daily painting by Everglades artist JoAnn Sanborn

2011-06-08T06:19:00.075-04:00

Fun in the Sun, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 5"x7"

Lynn Holley is the new director at the Marco Island Center for the Arts. I first heard about of Lynn from a friend of hers who wandered into my studio at the Esplanade and ended up purchasing one of my daily paintings for her home.

My new collector was waiting for a friend being interviewed for a new job. She raved about her Lynn's abilities and qualifications even before she knew I had any personal interest. It was nice hearing that kind of support from a friend.

Lynn is eminently qualified, knows that the Center for the Arts has been under a bit of a rain cloud lately, and is just itching to take on the challenge of turning things around. She has some great ideas, and is already in the process of implementing them. She says she's here for the long haul, and there's every indication she means it.

Center staff, Linda Henell, Lynn Holley, Cindy Crane

If you've dropped your membership, it's time to renew. Don't wait! There will be some good things going on, and you'll want to be part of it. If you've been hanging in the background, now is the time to get involved. We're going to have some fun in the sun!

Many of our members are away for the summer, but if you're around you can welcome Lynn at the Second Tuesday Social, on June 14th at 5:30. Bring your friends. Admission is free for everyone, and we can help her drink up some of the wine that's in a back room she'd like to use as a gallery!

Affected or Infected? Homer's boat, painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-06T06:15:00.002-04:00

Homer's Boat

How do you find that personal creative place inside yourself when you approach an empty canvas? Once you know what you want the subject to be, how do you find that place deep inside that allows you to interpret it your own way? What can you learn from others to make it happen?

Looking at the work of others to see how they might have interpreted a subject and trying their techniques, copying the work of master painters is all a part of the process of growing as an artist. So is taking workshops from established artists to learn new ideas and methods of working.

Doing, and reading, doing, and studying, doing, and experimenting is really what ensures you'll develop your own artistic voice. All said, it's mostly in the doing, and doing again.

There’s a fine line between what’s really yours and what really belongs to someone else. While you can learn from imitation, continually feeding off another's creativity will sap your energy like an infection.

I've been playing with the palette knife, and looking at any number of boat paintings. Today's painting most assuredly has become Homer's Boat.

Hurricane tips for Collectors, The Light and the Water painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

The Light and the Water, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 16"x20"

Red face! I'm learning how to schedule my posts and hit the wrong button AGAIN. Today is the time for this post! My apologies if you've gotten this twice.

As promised Wednesday, here are some tips for art collectors who may find their artwork threatened by hurricane.

1. Even though you may have very good insurance on your home, fine art is not usually covered unless you have a separate insurance rider. If you have valuable art, call your insurance agent long before disaster strikes to ensure you have the financial protection you want.

2. At the beginning of Hurricane Season sort your collection to determine what you must take with you if you have to evacuate, and what must stay behind. MakeCandidates for taking will be those of high value, or the artist is no longer living, or paintings with sentimental value.

Make a list, and keep it with your disaster evacuation list. If you don't have such a list, see Wednesday's post

3. Purchase the materials you will need to wrap and protect your paintings, and have them on hand before you need them. Also purchase water proof plastic containers for those that will stay behind.

4. Wrap the paintings going with you in brown paper or tissue, place in large plastic bag, wrap with bubble wrap and place in an upright carton in the car. An upright box is less likely to be punctured by something else as you pack, and you won’t put something too heavy on top, either. My experience is that packing tight leaves less room for trouble.

5. Wrap those that will stay as in #4, and place in plastic waterproof containers if small enough, and plastic again if not. Wrap so that water cannot penetrate your wrappings. Do not count on duct tape, it will seep if it gets wet.

6. Work toward placing paintings where they will not get punctured. Punctures can be repaired, but it's not easy! If you don't expect high water, inside the car you are leaving behind may provide protection from wind damage.

7. If the storm is bad enough, water could be in your home for several days. Place the paintings as high up in your home as possible to avoid water intrusion. Look for places away from windows and exterior walls.

My Everglades paintings are acrylic, strong and waterproof. I've had a couple go through hurricanes, get covered with bits of detritus, and washed off all to full recovery. If you have one of my paintings and have questions after a disaster, give me a call. Canvas tears can often be repaired and frames can be replaced.

Most important, stay safe first. The rest can all be dealt with!

Disaster Plan Now Sunny Side up painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-06-01T06:15:00.003-04:00

Sunny Side Up, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 12"x16"

The rainy season has come in southwest Florida, and while the parched ground of the glades will welcome the rain, the strength of some storms can be a grave threat to humans. June 1 is the start of Hurricane Season and now is the time to prepare for what lies ahead.

As a FEMA disaster assistance employee for many years, I know well the havoc nature can make on well-planned lives. I urge you to make a plan that will keep you and your family safe in the months ahead. Federal and state governments offer information and materials that can assist you in planning. You can visit readyamerican.gov on Facebook or myflorida.com / to get started.

Once you have a plan for you and your family's safety, you can begin to think about your art business or your art collection. Tomorrow I'll tell you a little about how to prepare your paintings in the face of a storm.

Long on Memory daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

2011-05-30T06:15:00.000-04:00

Long on Memory, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 6"6"

My dad was a veteran of World War II, and every Memorial Day a small flag is placed on his grave by the local veteran's organization. He wasn't killed in the war, but did die young, and the sight of a flag on any veteran's grave makes me appreciate, once again, the sacrifices that young men and women made and still make for our freedom.

As a child, on the evening before Memorial Day students in my neighborhood would gather up bunches of lilacs and march from the school to a nearby Veteran's Monument by the river for a service of remembrance. The lilacs grew wild in abundance then, and the smell of them still reminds me of those evenings and placing my flowers around the edge of the monument at the end of the program.

Here on Marco, Veterans place flags all along the median on Collier Blvd. It's a simple gesture, but one that makes us remember the solemness of the holiday as we go about our boating and family picnics. A groundbreaking for a memorial in Veteran's Park was held recently. The memorial will become the center of our collective memory of service-related loss here on the island.

If you are a Veteran or our armed services, or still serving, thank you for your service. I'm very grateful for your sacrifice.

2011-05-27T05:58:00.006-04:00

Pond View, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

sold

I'm experimenting with texture these days, and love the way the palette knife leaves bits of color below the surface, adding interest to the canvas. There's something freeing about the way the knife will pick up and lay down colors, not always doing what I expect.

In time, I'll gain skill with the knife. But as I gain skill, the freshness and surprise will be lost. It's almost impossible to gain mastery and still have the delight of surprise. Too bad.