In 2024, much of my creative energy was diverted to a wonderful direction. I had the privilege of participating in a project in my “own back yard,” so to speak. Libraries are place of refuge, welcome, knowledge, and community connection. The Margaret Walker Alexander Library is a small branch located at a busy intersection in West Jackson. For a few years on my grocery commute I’d daydream about a mural on the large, white cinder block facade of the building. Little did I know that individuals from the Jackson Friends of the Library were at work, applying for a grant for exactly for the purpose of creating art in libraries throughout Jackson. This allowed for the perfect opportunity to advocate that these funds be appropriated to the small but mighty branch. Alli Smith, a good friend and talented artist, headed up the project as the main designer and coordinator. What came next was an amazing process of collaboration. I am incredibly grateful to have gotten to be a part of the research...
Every year Inktober and the prompting of artists friends seem to hit at just the right time. The regular rhythms of the fall tend to sap the vitality of my creative process. This year I continued a focus on imagery from my everyday, stay-at-home-mom life, pushing myself to see more of what is there. Path Colored pencil on paper Wander Pen on paper Constellation Mixed media on paper Ordinary Time Colored pencil on paper Reliable Felt tip pen on paper Piles Felt tip pen on paper Dream Pen on paper Spiderettes Mixed media on paper Begonia Pen on paper Fasten Mixed media on paper Bounce Mixed media on paper Rise Colored pencil on paper Knotted Colored pencil on paper