Bea Modisett Paintings and Thoughts

And Just Like That.

2012-01-31T14:55:00.000-08:00

Ups and downs my friends. That's what's been happening. Also, a few things I've made recently:

24" x 24" Oil on Canvas

13" x 11" Oil on Canvas

12" x 9.75" Acrylic on paper.

It never seems like I have enough time. I just want time. I need to make more work. I miss the mountains and the desert. I miss camping. Short post. Off to paint. I'm on to something. EDIT: I think I'm on to something.

A New Home

2012-01-17T10:43:00.000-08:00

I am very happy that my painting "Beyond the Garden" (which I painted while at Hambidge and previously had the word "Just" in the title) has found a new, permanent home at CBIZ Tofias in Boston, MA. Wrapping a painting, renting a U-Haul and driving a painting in to Boston is a fun way to spend a morning.

Beyond the Garden, acrylic on canvas, 45" x 57". 2010

This sale came about as a direct result of being involved in the DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum's Corporate Art Loan Program. If you don't already participate in the program you can find more information here.

New Painting

2011-12-18T15:37:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,
I finished this painting a few weeks ago and have been letting it sit. It is bittersweet that I sold it yesterday and it has already left my studio. It's in a better place now, and I just went and bought myself a lot of canvas and paint.

A Cairn Out West 24" x 30" Oil on Canvas. 2011

I'm excited for winter hibernation and lots of painting.

On a Roll

2011-11-10T12:27:00.000-08:00

I had been working on this painting for about a month, and I thought it was finished when it looked like this:

I put it away for a week or two and when I looked at it again it just seemed SO busy. It stressed me out - not what I am going for in my paintings. So I made a few big decisions and out came:

Across the Bowl, 24" x 30" Oil on canvas.

I feel good. Working away on a few more canvases which I'm just as excited about. I'll keep you updated...

Do You See What I See?

2011-10-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

Look closely...

It's a glob of paint that looks like an elephant...I found it this morning.

And so that this isn't a total waste of your time, here is an image of a work in progress. I'd love to hear your thoughts.

More to come. But today is my birthday and I need to spend my time eating sushi and cake.

See you soon!

Studio Tour and Open Studios

2011-10-05T16:56:00.000-07:00

Greeting friends!

At the end of June I moved out of my old studio...

...and into a new one!

Ah yes...heaven! Bigger, brighter, more wallspace, clean, organized, and best of all, smack dab in the middle of the biggest (and coolest) artist building on the North Shore - the Studios at Porter Mill! (I'm also the manager there!)

Walking into the studio I have a number of small works hanging up.

My larger paintings (finished and in progress) are hung on the longest wall of the studio, which I can step back from. *BONUS* I sold the painting in the middle during the Open Studios!

My big, awesome palette - and my brick wall view!

My "sit down" workspace where I work on smaller drawings and paintings. Also - a lot of inspirational photos and "rejects" are hung on the wall. This is right next to my little office area - lucky me!

Below are a few images of the studio space, and a few from the Open Studios at Porter Mill that happened on Saturday September 24th. It was a blast! And don't worry if you missed it, there's another one coming up on December 3rd.

In my studio at the beginning of the event.

If you'd like to see more images from the Open Studios, including the Gallery Reception, check out the Studios at Porter Mill Blog!

Thanks for stopping by!

The Thrill of it All...

2011-09-19T18:58:00.000-07:00

I've been making some small paintings.

I am also making a raisin.

I'll see you this Saturday right?

2011-09-08T12:29:00.000-07:00

Open Studios and Grand Opening Celebration at Porter Mill

Saturday, September 24th 2:00pm - 8:00pm

95 Rantoul Street Beverly MA 01915

95 Rantoul Street, Beverly MA - Porter Mill, the newest artist studio building on the North Shore is pleased to announce it’s first Open Studios and Grand Opening Event! On Saturday, September 24th, from 2:00pm – 8:00pm the doors of this renovated 19th century factory will be open to the public. Over twenty-five artists will be in their studios from 2:00pm – 6:00pm to display and answer questions about their newest ceramics, illustrations, paintings, photographs, letterpress prints and more! Afterwards, beginning at 6:00pm, we welcome you to the first floor Gallery at Porter Mill for an opening reception of an exhibition displaying works of art by each of the thirty artists at Porter Mill. Enjoy art, live music by SWAY, beverages and refreshments. Please join us for a lively day celebrating the North Shore’s newest artist community. Free and open to the public.

Participating artists:

Sandy Belock-Phippen, Jessica Michelson Berger, Laura Clark, Ivy Dever, Randi Dubnick, Heather Dubnick, Danielle Dugan, Jordan Elquist, Ken Goldstrom, Melissa Gruntkosky - Pressbound, Andrew Houle, Adam Kalogy - Kolodziej Violins, Jason Lapham, Tan Lau, Michelle Kenna, Jon Madden, Siobhan McDonald, Bea Modisett, Lisa Neville, Chris O'Brien, Mary O'Malley, Anne Pofcher, Jesse Potwin, Katharine Shairs - Phillips, Jacob Thomas, Jennifer Toler, Jim Vaughey, Angela Yarian, Adam Ziskie

Contact Bea Modisett at studios.portermill@gmail.com with any questions and visit our Facebook invite for more information!

95 Rantoul Street, Beverly MA 01915,

www.studiosatportermill.blogspot.com

Image Credit: Mary O'Malley, Ken Goldstrom, Sandy Belock-Phippen, Laura Hazard Clark

Interview with Lydia Gordon

2011-08-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

I hope you will take a minute to check out my interview with Lydia Gordon, Lending Artist Coordinator with the DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum's Corporate Art Loan Program. Thanks Lydia!

Sneak Peak!

2011-08-05T06:30:00.000-07:00

(can you spot two of my paintings?)

I hope to see some of you tonight at the Opening Reception for X!

Kingston Gallery

450 Harrison Avenue, Boston

August 3rd through August 28th

Opening Reception: August 5th 6pm - 8pm

Save the Date!

2011-07-07T16:55:00.000-07:00

Bea Modisett @ Kingston Gallery

X: 2011 Associate Members' Exhibition

August 3 through 28, 2011

Opening Reception: First Friday, August 5, 6-8pm

I am nervous and excited to be a part of a First Friday Festivity!!! Oh won't you please, please be there? I will be exhibiting some new, never exhibited before paintings. (There are a lot of other cool shows opening that night too.)

I love you!

The Wall

2011-06-24T11:59:00.000-07:00

Well hello there friend! Take a look see at the progression of my most recent "out of the studio" project. My first ever mural. Biggest lesson learned: there is no room for subtlety in an outdoor mural on a cement wall.

Know what is weird? I can see the mural from my studio window - hopefully I can fight off feelings to want to constantly change things as I tend to do with my paintings. Or maybe it can be an evolving mural? Like I go out every night and just add one or two marks and see if anyone notices when it's completely different by this time next year? Maybe.

Let me know you what think ch'all and thanks for reading!

Hey We're Just Fooling Around!

2011-06-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

Today it is raining. Here is a photo of my recent painting but with a TWIST!

When I work on a painting for a really long time I have a few practices that help to see it anew: 1) Flip it in all different directions, this helps me see areas that I've paid too much attention to, or not enough 2) Take a nap in a chair in front of the painting so it's the first thing I see when I wake up 3) Drink a beer 4) Look at it through a mirror and now...drum roll...5) Make it black and white in Photoshop.

Rainy day fun comin' atcha! I'll be back soon with a color image once the painting is complete.

You're the best! Thanks for reading.

Whoa, whoa, whoa! What?

2011-04-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

My head is SCATTERED! Here is a painting that I stopped working on about one month ago - does that mean it's finished? That's the question of my life. It feels...crowded. It began as a painting of what I imagined the Pacific Coast Highway would look and feel like. Unfortunately (or not) I didn't finish it until after I had seen the PCH. So it became a big mash up of imagined and remembered elements of that big, beautiful seaside highway. I'm still reeling with ideas from my road trip. I am painting on a lot of canvases at a time to get all the ideas out...hopefully some clarity will come soon. But probably not.

The Imagined Pacific Coast, oil on canvas. 30" x 40".

Detail

Also, this letter was introduced to me as a senior in college and I still have it printed out and floating around my house for me to find and read when it is most needed. Read it, it will do a body good.

Upcoming Exhibition

2011-03-29T11:36:00.000-07:00

PLAY AT WORK

Curated by Adam Kalogy and Christopher Stepler

(Justin Durand)

17 Cox Art Space

17 Cox Court | Beverly MA | 01915

Opening Reception: Tuesday, April 5 · 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Check out the Facebook page for a list of artists. (I'm in great company!)

Artists I Love

2011-03-20T15:47:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since an update so I thought I'd let you all in on some of my biggest sources of inspirations. To me there is almost nothing better than coming across a new artist whose aesthetic, approach, ideas, or story jive with my own and inspire me to create something. I feel the same way about travel - something that never ceases to fill my head with ideas. Here is just a sampling of images I keep in my "inspiration" folder.

Japanese Landscape Painting

All of that absorbed into my head, milled around a bit and combined with ideas that come from I don't know where, and then put down in paint makes this:

Piles in the Hallway, 16" x 20". Oil on canvas. 2011

I'd love to know what inspires you! How do you find new artists to love?

That's Outrageous!

2011-02-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

Actually, it's Artrageous! Artrageous!25 to be exact, Montserrat College of Art's annual art auction. And I'm pleased as punch to let you know that my drawing Rahda's Garden was juried into the live auction by jurors Destiny Barletta of Pucker Gallery, Kristen Dodge of DODGE Gallery in New York City and Randi Hopkins of the Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston.

Radha's Garden 30" x 40" Charcoal, pastel and collage. 2009

I will definitely be in attendance on April 30th to watch as people (hopefully) bid on my work. I'm also happy to say that my friends Bradford and Chelsea will have work in the live auction as well.

Thanks for reading my friends.

ALSO - I'm updating my link list. If you don't see your name over there and you'd like to, leave a comment with your blog/website URL.

Studios at Porter Mill

2011-02-22T17:25:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

If you've been wondering why I haven't updated in a while I can tell you it's because I have been busy, busy, busy! Yes I've been painting - but I've also recently been hired to manage the Studios at Porter Mill. Porter Mill is and old factory building in Beverly MA - first inhabited in 1895 - that has had many uses and is now the home of twenty two artist studios. Formerly the RedBrick Art Center, Porter Mill is poised once again to be a center of creative energy north of Boston. We are making a number of improvements on the building to ensure the best possible experience for our artists - Studios at Porter Mill is slated to open May 1st, 2011. Big plans include having the studios brimming with activity, gallery exhibitions, a print lab, public lectures, master classes, demos, film screenings and more!

If you live on the North Shore and are in need of a studio space this could be the place for you! Contact me with any questions or if you would like to tour the building. I promise to begin posting again more regularly once I get into the swing of things - I have two paintings that are nearing completion, so stay tuned!

Fan us on Facebook!

Time is Running Out!

2011-01-27T10:02:00.000-08:00

Kingston Gallery will be hosting a closing reception for Dialogues on Sunday, January 30th at 3pm - won't you join us? While you're at it you can check out all of the other wonderful exhibitions that were up this month at 450 Harrison, it's a great way to spend a Sunday. I promise. You'll also get to see my painting The White Mountains: Remembered.

What a treat.

Thanks for reading,

Bea

Books, Magazines, Art Supplies, More Books, Paintings...

2011-01-11T14:51:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

I haven't finished a painting in about six months. Oh, I've been working. I've been working like crazy. Pretty much all day, everyday (except when I was doing this) I just couldn't seem to get to that point where I felt like a painting was resolved, it was okay, but not. quite. there. Do you know what I mean? I've made the analogy that I feel like a vulture, I keep circling, and circling, and circling. I can see it (the resolution/prey*) I just can't get it! Well, I'm happy to say (in one case) I finally got it...and I ate it. And here it is:

Piles in the Hallway, 16" x 20". Oil on Canvas. 2010.

And it's entrails:

I think one of the reasons I've been having a hard time finishing a painting is a lack of conversation. Want to come visit? I take criticism well and have been known to offer visitors fun drinks and hilarious jokes. Think about it. I'd be happy to visit your studio as well.

Thanks for listening friends.

*Now, now, you don't think I'm saying that finishing a painting is all I care about do you? Because I'm not...it's the journey not the destination, but closure is good too.

Just the Numbers

2011-01-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

Thirty days

Twenty-six states

Two countries

Two coasts

Eight thousand miles (total including the Zephyr, buses and detours)

Sixty-seven hours in the car

Fifty-two hours on a train

Eleven hours on buses

Four time zones

Four cell phones (drama)

One lost credit card

Nineteen tanks of gas (Sorry Mama Nat)

Twenty blog posts (Twenty-one if you include this one)

Seventy-six pounds of luggage (including camping equipment)

One thousand five hundred and thirty four photos

Six videos

Zero car problems (including speeding/parking tickets, flat tires, running out of gas, etc)

A million memories (awwwww)

One happy camper (me!)

I also stood at the lowest point of elevation in North America, crossed over the Continental Divide, stood at the one hundredth Meridian West, hung out at the highest point of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and probably passed over a few other imaginary lines along the way.

Big thanks to Eli, PJ and Heath, Jen and Bre, Chase, Nate, Samantha and Andy and Laura for your couches, beds and aero-mattresses.

Thanks for coming along for the ride!

Upcoming Exhibition @ Kingston Gallery

2010-12-28T07:05:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

As you know I was recently voted in as an Associate Member to Kingston Gallery at 450 Harrison in Boston. Prior to this I was invited to by Barbara Moody to participate in the Kingston Gallery group exhibition, DIALOGUES.

Dialogues is an exhibit of works by the gallery's member artists, each paired with a work by an invited guest. The gallery artists address a broad range of current concerns in art in a variety of media through work that is often experimental in nature. this exhibit situates them within a wide ranging network of artists, with invited guests including mentors, former students, former classmates, colleagues, and artist family members, and from recent art school graduates to mature artists.

Barbara's kind statement:

Through her participation in several artists' residencies, Bea Modisett's work has recently achieved maturity, focus and a unique personal voice. Her dynamic paintings and drawings show an innovative use of line, color and texture. Bea curates contemporary exhibitions, teaches, and works intensively in her studio. This young artist is someone to watch.

I hope to see you all at the opening reception!

Oh Canada!

2010-12-27T18:21:00.000-08:00

A special thanks goes out to Laura for getting up at the crack of dawn to make sure I was at the Cleveland Greyhound Station to catch bus to Buffalo, NY. This bus ride really wore on me even though it was only about four hours. Again, I was happy to have someone waiting for me at the end of the line. My father and brother had taken me up on my invitation to join me for my final leg of this journey. My dad took a train to NYC and met up with my brother and then they both flew from NYC to Buffalo, NY. The flight was actually cheaper and faster than any train they could find.

We met up around 1:00 and drove straight to Duff’s – the establishment responsible for the creation of Buffalo wings. We. Ate. Too. Much. Another restaurant you must go to if ever in the Buffalo area. Then we got in the car and drove two hours north to Toronto, ON, CA and checked in to our hotel right outside the city. After getting settled we ventured the fifteen minutes to downtown to explore and find a good place to have dinner. We followed Queen Street the majority of the way just taking in the sights and then wandered down to Chinatown and Kensington Market. It was freezing outside so our walk was cut shorter than it normally would have been as we found a crowded, Asian fusion restaurant for dinner. We took our time enjoying appetizers and splitting entrées accompanied by hot bottles of sake. Obviously this wasn’t enough so we had to find a place for dessert. Our wish was granted with a restaurant serving exclusively crepes, wine and beer. My kind of place! We ordered three crepes to share: nutella and banana, homemade applesauce and cinnamon, and rum and sugar.

The next morning we got up very early to hit the road. We were headed south to Niagara and Horseshoe Falls. On the way north to Toronto we had passed a number of wineries so we decided to visit a few of them on the way down south to Niagara. We started at Puddicombe Winery, a small family owned winery that is the official first stop on the Niagara Peninsula Wine Tour. We had our first tasting at 9:30am and started with a unique white wine called Trillium (we ended up leaving with three bottles of this) and followed that with one of their famous fruit wines. After Puddicombe we drove to Kacaba, a more upscale winery known for its reds. We tasted three wines here, one of which had been voted the number one red in Canada. About five minutes up the road was Angel’s Gate Winery where we tasted four different types of wine. This was my first wine tasting and I had a great time. We ate lunch at a local Pita Shop, which was nice and filling and then drove down to the Falls.

As a treat I took my brother and dad on the Journey Behind the Falls self guided tour. We took an elevator down the equivalent of two stories and walked through tunnels to an outlook point and to two “portals” that took us about a third of the way around and behind the falls. One of the portals was completely iced over which means we couldn’t see the water but we could still hear it! The force of the falls is incredible, and they were only at half their power. In the winter half of the water is directed towards the power plant to create energy for Toronto. I need to go back in the summer to see them at full force. We returned later that night to see the falls illuminated and, of course, find a place for dinner.

We left bright and early the next morning to make the eight hour trip home. We passed through customs with no problem and made a quick stop at the American side of the falls. The view was great but the Canadian side definitely did a better job of building up the area – the US side was a bit dingy and sad. I’d suggest that anyone visiting the falls should spend the majority of their time on the Canadian side.

The drive home was easy, and while Michael and Dad slept I had a chance to reflect on my trip and everything I had just accomplished. And when they were awake I made them sing songs with me and play games. We rolled into my parents driveway around five o’clock and I bid a fond farewell to this adventure, and with dreams of many more to come.

I'll be doing a few more "wrap-up" posts about my trip but I'll be resuming my artsy fartsy posting soon as well.

Thanks for coming along for the ride guys,

Bea

Chicago to Ohio

2010-12-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

Oh Hello,

I bet you’re wondering what I did after I de-boarded the California Zephyr…aren’t you? No? Well I’ll tell you anyway. After bidding a fond farewell to the Zephyr I met up with my friend Samantha who was kind enough to pick me up from Union Station. Chicago was freezing and I didn’t take my hands out of my pockets for anything except to drink hot, spiced wine. This means no pictures from this leg of the trip. After a brief stop at her parents downtown house, we bee lined to the Art Institute of Chicago for a few hours to enjoy the amazing collection. My favorite was seeing La Grande Jatte by Seurat accompanied by a few preparatory sketches he did for this masterpiece. We then hopped on a bus to the Park Zoo and enjoyed an awesome light show. Everything was covered in holiday lights and music was playing – this was also where I got the aforementioned hot, spiced wine. We probably spent more time that is normal in the kids playroom staring at turtles and frogs, but it was warm, and reptiles are cool. After the zoo we got back on the bus to get to her car and then went to an amazing Cuban restaurant called 90 miles. If you are ever in the Chicago area then you should go. I hope to get back to Chicago soon because this was a short visit. We went home and watched No Country For Old Men (I fell asleep before it was over) then I hopped on a bus the next morning at 6:30 to get me to the station for my 8:15 bus to Ohio.

It was a little over a six-hour bus ride to Ohio from Chicago and I’ve got to say it was starting to wear on me. It’s a big jump to go from being in a car by myself for three weeks to sharing a very small space with thirty sick people eating Roy Rogers. It’s a good thing I knew I would be greeted by two of my favorite people in the world who I haven’t seen in…five years? After getting off the bus at Tower City Andy soon rolled up in his vintage, bright green, VW bus. I’d never seen his car before but as it approached, I somehow knew it was him. Andy moved to Cleveland, Ohio with his lady (and my friend) Laura when she decided she’d like to get her Masters in Education. They have made quite a wonderful life in this city. Laura has begun her career as an art teacher/art historian and Andy is pursuing his career as a painter – and both are doing a damn fine job! Andy brought me by his studio where I was able to see his newest work and the work of some of the other artists he shares the space with. Next we drove a few blocks to Proximity, the co-op gallery he helped found, before heading to their home in Cleveland Heights and meeting up with Laura.

I had so much fun with them eating good food, playing with their cats and dog, playing cards, drinking White Russian, exploring Cleveland and going on a hike through the snow. I am so happy that I was able to see so many friends on this trip. It meant so much to me showing up at friend’s houses and seeing that they had an air mattress inflated for me, or a couch covered in blankets, or a comfy guest room with homemade quilts for me to use.

Thanks for listening friends, up Next: The Final Leg of the Trip

The Union Pacific Queen

2010-12-26T14:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

I’m writing to you from the comfort of my parent’s home. I arrived in Rhode Island on December 22^nd around five o’clock in the evening bringing this particular journey to an end – though I’m sure it will continue in many ways. I wasn’t very good about blogging the last week since I wanted to just absorb everything and enjoy every minute with my friends and in these new places. I’ll do my best to recap the final week for you all.

San Francisco marked the end of my westward move and the beginning of my eastward bound journey home. I boarded the California Zephyr at eight thirty in the morning on December 15^th. I was so happy when I saw and boarded the train because the Zephyr was the springboard for this trip. When I saw it featured on the National Geographic website as one of the top ten North American train trips I knew I had to get on board. What resulted was this month long adventure. The Zephyr is a big train, a double decker, and I was happy to find a seat on the top floor, which I thought would give great views. I was right. I couldn’t believe the scenery on this trip. An amazing climb up and through the Sierra Nevada’s came soon after we pulled out of Emeryville, CA. (FYI – there is a free shuttle from SF to Emeryville where the Amtrak Station is, no need to pay that $40.00 cab fare!) There was a fresh snow on the ground making this leg of the trip even more picturesque. Amazing views of the valley, trees covered in snow, animal tracks, and good company!

The scenic car attracted first time Zephyrians, and I made friends with some wonderful, interesting people while admiring the scenery. From Sacramento to Reno we had two historians on board who gave the history of the route and the laying of the tracks. Listening to the historians tackle the story of the Donner Party as we passed Donner Lake was interesting – I think the wording was “they faced great hardship and obstacles together…” what they didn’t say was “…and then they gnawed on each others arms.”

Sleeping on the train was pretty comfortable. I had two seats to myself so there was plenty of room to relax. The first morning I woke up to the intercom announcing “first call” for breakfast in the dining car. I decided to stay in my seat and enjoy the sunrise over the prairie for a bit before heading to the scenic car where I would spend my entire day. The first thing I noticed is that I knew where we were. We were in Utah and following Route 70 – the route I took out West! It was so cool passing through places I recognized and really nice to not be driving and be able to just enjoy the scenery. I made friends with Willis (Hi Willis!) a mapmaker who helped me spot wildlife and told me all about the ins and outs of mapmaking. The second day topped the first as we passed through red rock canyons, more tunnels and journeyed into the Rockies. Amazing. AMAZING. The only disappointment was not seeing a big horned sheep – but I saw a lot of those on the way out. You know what I did see? Three bald eagles. Boo yea. Also a ton of deer, elk and a herd of antelope.

Most of the stops the train made were pretty short, sometimes as short as one minute if no one was boarding or de-boarding but on average about five. I usually didn’t get out of the train during these stops unless I really wanted some fresh air. However, the train was running early the second day and we rolled into Denver, CO about thirty minutes early. This, on top of a longer than normal layover, meant the train would stay at the platform for about forty minutes. I had time to revisit Wynkoop Brewery and use the wooden nickel given to me when I visited the brewery earlier in the trip.

It was dark by the time we pulled out of Denver so after I re-boarded I started getting ready for bed. I lucked out that night because the train was packed but the woman who sat next to me ended up moving to sit next to her boyfriend. The next morning I woke up in Iowa. Colorado was the peak of scenery, the rest of the way was pretty but incomparable to the Rockies and Sierras. We passed over a lot more prairie before pulling into Chicago around three o’clock. An amazing journey - one I'll surely make again. If you're headed out to San Francisco and have the time this would be a really wonderful way to get out there. It's unbelievable the diversity of landscape you see on this one train trip, snow covered mountains one day, and desert the next.

Thanks for listening friends!

Be Sure to Wear Flowers In Your Hair...

2010-12-20T05:55:00.000-08:00

...unless you have dreadlocks and don't want people to think you're more of hippie than they already do.

Guys...nine months ago I told my friend Julie "I just want to get in a car and drive to California" and now I can say... I got in a car and drove to California. I am so happy to be able to say that. This trip has been so incredible in so many ways, and in time I will probably realize how it's amazing in so many more ways. I have learned so much about who I am, who I want to be and the life I want to live. I'm rambling. SanFran was awesome. After another beautiful drive up the coast I arrived at the airport to bid farewell to my Nissan Versa that helped me through my travels - a lot of PB&Js were made on that dashboard. I took the BART to the Civic Center and a cab to the corner of Baker and McAllister where Nate, dear Nate, met me. I took a much needed shower and met him and his girlfriend at MiniBar which was right down the street. Everyone here was so welcoming, I tried myself a nice local brew (and then some) and was sure to get a good night's sleep before the next day's events.

I had a full day of being an obvious tourist. First thing I did was walk to Haight Street and have breakfast at Kate's Kitchen. Amazing. The west knows how to do breakfast. Afterwards, I needed to walk off the eggs and biscuit so I wandered over to Alamos Square and took a gander at the Painted Ladies.

Anyone? Flashback? Full House was a staple growing up so this landmark was a must see, for the view, but also for nostalgia purposes. After this I got on a bus to Chinatown and walked around a for a few hours. I would have loved to get some dim sum but was still really full so people watching and window shopping had to do. Anyone visiting SF should go to Chinatown. SF has the largest population of Asians in the US and the shops here are a filled with a mix of souvenirs and the real deal items catering to the population.

From Chinatown I walked down to Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 35 where I watched the famous sea lions that have made the docks their home, saw the "Bush Man", and watched people shop in overpriced stores. A bit down the way is an awesome arcade filled with antique, coin operated machines. I didn't play any of them but really enjoyed seeing them all.

There were hundreds of them - a definite stop if you're in the area. Nate picked me up from the arcade (which made me feel like I was in middle school) and gave me a driving tour of the area as we worked our way to the Golden Gate Bridge. He's lived here for almost a year but hasn't gone all the way across the bridge so we did it together!

This was an awesome leg of the trip. I felt like I did a lot of the touristy things I wanted to do, but Nate also showed me around the neighborhood and I got a sense of what it was like to live here too. I didn't get to do everything I wanted but know I will be back. San Francisco marked the end of my western movement and I have begun the eastward trip back home. I'm still a bit behind on posting but rest assured you'll hear all about the Zephyr trip, Chicago and Cleveland all in due time. Right now I'm on a Greyhound bus headed for Buffalo, NY where I will be meeting up with my Dad and brother for a trip up to Toronto. Ay?

Bus love (though I think someone farted),

Bea

Update

2010-12-19T20:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,
Sorry for the lapse. Update soon...but to tide you over here is an updated map of where I've been, and where I am:

Oh man. So much to tell. So much to show!

Love from Cleveland,

A very happy Bea

Funny Sidewalk Trash.

2010-12-15T00:38:00.000-08:00

Route One Won

2010-12-14T17:42:00.000-08:00

Well my friends I have officially made it from ocean to ocean. I started at the Atlantic and have now laid eyes upon the Pacific. This was quite the one eighty from Death Valley. I drove up scenic Route One up to the Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park where I would be camping that evening. The drive was incredible. I spent a total of about an hour on it and have started imagining plans to drive the whole thing end to end one day.

When I'm camping out I always make sure I am at my site before sundown so I can pitch my tent and get to know my surroundings. I arrived at Julia Pfieffer Burns right before sunset and was so happy to watch the sun go down over the Pacific for the first time in my life. I was also incredibley stoked about my site. In the photo below you'll see a small waterfall - my site was pretty much right above that in a clearing. I got a little sad thinking that I might not ever come back to this spot to camp and then I realized I control that situation and that I will come back. It's too perfect of a site not to come back to. I made my camp reservation six months ago and I'm glad I did - there are only two sites in the park and as incredible as they are I'm sure they are always filled.

This is a short post. I didn't do much hiking at this stop, just a lot of fire sitting and a bit of walking around. The next morning I did wake up and sit on a rock outcropping to stare at the ocean for a while hoping to catch a glimpse of migrating whales, but no such luck. This was my last night camping on the trip. From here on out I'll be spending my nights on a train, at friend's houses and in Canadian hotel rooms.

Flowers everywhere,

Bea

I Slept in Death Valley...

2010-12-14T10:28:00.000-08:00

...and didn't die!

Death Valley was (as everything else on this trip) amazing! I arrived right at sunset and saw the most beautiful sky. The weather was perfect and I was excited to be camping in weather warmer than in Canyonlands. The first thing I did was go to Zabriskie Point for sunset which overlooked this amazing formation of rocks that looked like marble rye. The mountains out west are different than back home - these are folded layers of earth created by plate movement - not the rocky glacially formed mountains that I'm used to. They look like petrified dunes (which I saw in Arches!) and are really other worldly. I wonder if minions of the west think our New England mountains are surreal too.

When I was planning this trip I knew that the week following Kansas was going to be one of the best - and it was. I was especially excited for camping in Death Valley because it's a "winter park" so I knew there would be more people camping. As much as I love, love, love being alone by a campfire there is something really nice about seeing other people around theirs. I have also found that when I am in a National Park everyone is basically best friends. I think everyone is just in a good mood because they are surrounded by amazing beauty. I have met a lot of really interesting people a long the way and have really enjoyed sharing love for these parks with them.

For those of you who may want to visit Death Valley I would recommend camping in Furnace Creek Campground. It's location is great as it is right in the middle of the park. I woke up with the sun and then drove south in the park and worked my way up north as the day went on. My schedule worked out perfectly. I began the day with an easy hike through Golden Canyon which came with a trail map pointing out geological formations and evidence of the fact that Death Valley used to be an ocean. The hottest and driest place in the country used to be an ocean. An ocean. AN OCEAN. The National Park & Forest Service do a really good job of talking about past, present and future of the parks. Arches really spoke about the fact that erosion created those arches, and it will also be the force that destroys them.

After Golden Canyon I went to Badwater Basin and the salt flats. This was incredible. The flats are five miles across and I walked about three miles in before turning back. Since most people don't have the time/energy to do the whole thing the further out you get the more pristine the condition of the flats. These flats are also the lowest spot in North America at two hundred and eighty two feet below sea level. I've been to a lot of highest and lowest points on this trip, and also passed over a lot of imaginary borders. (I'm going to do a recap post when I'm home from my journey which will list all of these.)

After Badwater I went on a hike to Natural Bridge and I think, after Arches, I'm an arch snob. This was a beautiful spot though - and different than arches since the formation is carved out of a rocky mountain rather than smooth, red sandstone. When I arrived there was a school group of about fifty students which was irritating. They were all sitting under the arch and one of them said I looked like a boy. So I waited up the trail for about twenty minutes for them to leave so I could have some time alone. I like meeting people on the trail and talking with them, but fifty teenagers was a bit much. Further up the trail is a dried up waterfall which is pretty spectacular. On this dry, dusty trail you come to a very smooth, vertical area of rock that is more evidence of that damn ocean! If you are going to Death Valley be prepared to change at least one tire. A lot of the roads (like the one to Natural Bridge) are unpaved to get to trailheads - I just drove three miles an hour and annoyed anyone behind me but hey, I didn't have to change a tire. So there.

North of Natural Bridge was Artist's Drive which takes you through amazing, colored rock formations that look like giant globs of paint.

At this point I got on the other main road in Death Valley and drove about thirty miles south to Dante's View. This was absolutely stunning. A spot that I spent a lot of time at. After spending the whole day exploring the park this was a perfect (second to) last stop because it overlooks the entire park and I could see everywhere I had been. Amazing. Go. GO!

To finish the day at sunset I drove back to Zabriskie Point and spent a lot of time without my camera just taking it all in. I returned to my camp sight and had a great big campfire and a wonderful, warm night of camping.

This got a bit wordy didn't it? If anyone has any questions about Death Valley, or anywhere I've been, let me know. I'd love to help someone get to some of these places.

Next up: Big Sur!

Love,

Bea in San Francisco

I'm a bit behind on posting because I've been doing stuff like camping on a cliff and walking across the Golden Gate Bridge. I'll try and catch up.

Goodbye Death Valley!

How Grand!

2010-12-11T02:13:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

After Arches I spent the night in Canyonlands National Park which is about forty minutes from Arches. It was the coldest night yet, and the first time I felt a little uneasy about tenting. I was sharing the camp sight with one other person which is fine, he was stargazing, but I got there after dark so I was unable to orient myself which I like to do. I feel like I get smarter every time I camp - like putting my clothes for the next day under me for extra cushion from the rocky desert and so they are warm in the morning. Aren't I smart? (My mom is yelling right now that I learned that under her rule as my Girl Scout Leader many years ago.) Also - I always keep my car key remote next to me in the night so that if I hear the breathing of an animal next to my tent I can push the button that will make my car beep and flash. I've used this technique once - it really worked scaring the wind away that sounded like a pack of coyotes outside my tent at four in the morning when I was half asleep. Anyway - it was cold and I didn't spend long there the following morning before speeding off to the Grand Canyon.

I arrived right at sunset and watched from Lipan Point as the canyon turned the most beautiful colors. The next morning I went down the canyon about a mile and a half on the South Kaibab trail. There is no better way to start the day than with a hike with beautiful scenery. As beautiful as it was though I found myself missing the "positive shapes" of Arches and Rocky Mountain National Park. I think this is really interesting since I am a very "additive" painter.

The most enjoyable part of the day for me came with a long but relaxing walk along the rim. One of the shuttles wasn't running so there was a whole section of the canyon that was only accessible if you had a car or wanted to walk so there were a lot less people along this path. I walked for about six miles along the Rim Trail and I really enjoyed this solitude and discovering new spots along the canyon. I've been doing a ton of walking/hiking. That combined with the fact that I missed Thanksgiving this year means I can over indulge on eggnog, pie and cookies when I'm home for the holidays...right? RIGHT!

Arches National Park...

2010-12-10T18:18:00.000-08:00

...was archrageous!

I loved this National Park...everything about it was amazing. I arrived around three o'clock after the beautiful, beautiful drive from Colorado and pitched my tent. There was only one other person when I arrived so I got the most incredible site.

The drive from Colorado was one of the best yet. I took scenic Route Six out of Boulder which offered me plenty of views of big horned sheep and more elk. I have seen so much wildlife on this trip that I've never seen before - last on my list is a Buffalo - I'm hoping I see one from the Zephyr. The drive also took me over the continental divide, through a snowstorm and through surreal red rock scenery. Anyone making this drive should take Route 6 and go through Grand Junction, Colorado.

The first thing I did when I got to Arches was to scout out a good hike for sunset. I set out to find Landscape Arch the longest known arch at two hundred and ninety feet and ended up going further than I expected. At one point I was happy to have my In Case of Emergency card in my back pocket. Red Rock is really easy to climb, not as easy to get down.

That middle section that looks like an accordion is where I had my bit of panic. Usually it wouldn't have been a big deal but it was after sunset, and I was the only one on the trail...so there. The next day I hiked out to Delicate Arch. I am pretty much on a sun schedule during this trip. I get up for the sunrise, watch the sunset, and then go to bed. There is a lot of hiking, eating and fire building in between those steps. Anyway, I hiked out to Delicate Arch and was happy to find myself all alone with my thoughts. I sat for a good thirty minutes before a group of people came up. While I had found a rock outcropping to sit on they were walking all around the bowl the arch is set upon and taking photos under the arch. It's a somewhat steep incline and because my issue on the hike last night I felt perfectly content to just sit and stare at this beautiful formation. After about an hour total of sitting, staring and loving, I hiked back down to find my next destination. I had been in my car for about five minutes when I started wondering why I didn't stand under the arch. If someone asks me "Did you stand under it!?" I'd have to say no, and I'd have to say it was because I was scared. I don't ever want to say I didn't do something because I was scared. I never want to have to say " I wish I had done such and such." So I hiked my butt back up to Delicate Arch and had my damn picture taken under it (and it was no where near scary).

I spent another hour with the arch and realized that it holds the answer to every painting I've ever had trouble with (all of them). Everything I could ask of a painting is embodied in this natural formation. Really. Spending time with Delicate Arch has been one of the highlights of this trip.

I have taken nine hundred photos so far on this trip. Some of them are for blogging, some are to show my parents, some are to frame for myself and others are inspiration for paintings. I've been obsessed with cairns and have enjoyed photographing them for inspiration when I get home. Sometimes though I need to remind myself to put my camera away and just enjoy the scenery and the hike and soak everything in. The alone time I am able to have on this trip is really helping me shape my own thoughts and goals - and being surrounded by some of the most beautiful things in this country, and seeing some of the ugly, really puts things in perspective.

I love ending the evening writing in my journal by a fire.

An Amazing Day in Boulder

2010-12-03T16:36:00.000-08:00

Greetings from Boulder! I love it here. The end.

For riz though – I really have enjoyed my time in Boulder. I feel like I have done so much and feel good that I had done everything I wanted to do while here. Something I am learning as I continue on this trip is to be flexible but organized. I had a lot of specific things planned for this trip and while I’m doing most of them, I’m also allowing for the unexpected and I’m open to changing my route at the last minute, taking a detour, or doing things spur of the moment. I’m excited to be in Boulder for a number of reasons. The two main ones being that I get to visit with my dear friend Chase from Hambidge and explore my boyfriend Dan’s old stomping grounds (he went to University of Colorado where Chase is currently going for his MFA in ceramics.)

I started my time in Boulder with a 7:30AM hike that kicked my butt at Gregory Canyon. The hike was only about 3.5 miles round trip but it was steep the whole way up. Also, the higher elevation really does make a difference – I found myself stopping to catch my breath more often than usual. It was worth it! I felt great afterwards and had beautiful views of the city and the canyon – inspiration for paintings for sure.

Afterwards I still had time before meeting my mom’s cousin for lunch so I hiked around the meadow to get a good view of the Flatirons. Aren’t they beautiful? I also drove halfway up Mt. Flagstaff where I encountered a buck deer and his two little ones. The fawns were grazing while Dad stood in the middle of the road keeping watch. Tonight I’ll be going to the top of Flagstaff to watch the sunset over the mountains.

After lunch I headed North to Estes Park and I am so glad I did. The town is absolutely beautiful. It is surrounded by lakes and snow capped mountains. More importantly it leads to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. Before my trip I purchased the America The Beautiful Pass – an annual pass that gets you free entrance into all National Parks and Forests. If any of you are planning a cross-country trip and plan to camp in or visit these parks this is a must. Admission can get outrageous. Thanks to this pass I didn’t have to pay the $20 admission fee and in I went. I am so, so, so, glad I did. The views and the wildlife literally took my breath away more than once.

The mid-afternoon light was beautiful, and even as the sun went down the snow was glowing and the world had a purple undertone. I’m not exaggerating when I say I saw about one hundred Elk (male and female.) They are magnificent creatures and incredibly tame within the park (see how close that one is?). I also saw a number of deer, some beautiful birds, and two coyotes who were doing some kind of awkward dance with each other. This is an incredible spot and I highly recommend it to anyone in the area or passing through – make sure you go on Trail Ridge Road and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.

Good day my friends – I’m off to Mt. Flagstaff for the sunset. Tonight Chase and I are planning on going to an opening reception in Denver and tomorrow I depart for Arches National Park. I doubt they have Wi-Fi so I’ll see you all in a few days!

Days Nine and Ten: Denver!

2010-12-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

Oh hello there,

I'll make this one quick because I know what's coming next. Warning: Shit's about to get wicked pretty. Yep, wicked pretty.

I made it to Denver and was greeted by my estranged but good friend Jen and her girlfriend Bre. They have an awesome apartment in Denver really close to downtown. I was pretty beat / hungry from the nine hour drive so we promptly made plans for dinner and met up with two of their friends. We went to City O'City where I ate amazing pizza number two on this trip. One of the things I love so much about this trip is meeting up with friends I haven't seen in a while (Hello PJ! Hello Eli! Hello Chase! Here I come Nate, Samantha, Jess, Laura and Andy! Here I come.) and eating awesome food. It's especially nice after a long drive. We went to bed pretty early that night knowing we had a full day of touristy things to do. Jen was great and took me around quintessential Denver spots to take corny, awesome, tourist photos.

The city has really interesting and diverse architecture and I enjoyed just walking around and seeing the buildings, shops and public art. Really, if you are ever in Denver walking around the city and trying a few restaurants will keep you busy for a day. We tried to go to one gallery but the exhibit had just come down. It's was nice out anyway*, no reason to go inside. Then I made Jen take these photos with me:

And we sealed our friendship forever.

Jen had to work that evening so I picked up Bre from school where she is studying nutrition and at the suggestion of Dan who used to live in this area, we went to Wynkoop Brewery and had a blast! The bartender was very kind and "nickeled" our beers - meaning five cents each - if you're reading dear man, thank you. You know the way to a girls heart. The way home was somewhat....surreal. Here's what happened:

That's the courthouse and jail all dressed up for the holidays...it makes me want to get arrested just to see what's inside! Just kidding Mom. Thanks for reading friends, and thanks for that awesome photo Bre.

* I've been incredibly fortunate with the weather - couldn't ask for it to be better considering the time of year.

The Loneliest Road in America: From Kansas to Denver

2010-12-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

Sorry for the lapse in posting. In case you missed Glee last week, here's what happened:

I'm spending a lot of time on highways - going seventy miles an hour (or more) past hundreds of gas stations and McDonald's, and while this may fly in the East (Beverly to Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania to Virginia, Virginia to North Carolina and then on to Tennessee and Kansas) there is certainly no excuse for it out West - the scenery is beautiful and completely different than anything I've ever seen and so I bypass the highways and get on to smaller, more scenic routes. While this adds time it also makes the drive a lot more interesting and gives a better sense of the state I'm driving through. When I left Kansas I could have taken Interstate 70 pretty much the entire way to Denver, instead I made a stop in Dodge City, KS and took Route 50 out to Denver - Route 50 is also known as The Lonliest Road in America, and I can see why.

This is the type of road you don't want to have less than half a tank of gas on, because you never know when the next station will show up. It's a straight, two lane road that runs along miles, and miles, and miles, and miles of wheat fields (prairie). This is really want I wanted to see on this trip - the "heartbeat" of this country. I saw where a huge amount of the nation's food is produced (including three sad, disgusting cattle ranches) and saw more oil pumps than I could count. On a positive note I also passed a number of wind farms. The route follows the Santa Fe Trail so I had a good amount of decent historical markers to pull off to. I even got to see and walk in original ruts from the covered wagons that followed the trail. Isn't it crazy to think that pioneers literally carved themselves into the history of this country? These ruts are one hundred and seventy five years old and I could see them plain (HAH!) as day (you unfortunately cannot, because I didn't take a photo - bad Bea.) What's that you say? The internet shall provide? Yes, you're right.

A stop in Dodge City was mandatory even though it doesn't really provide all that much to see. Now I can say that I got the hell out of Dodge and MEAN IT! If you have a moment, read about the history of Dodge City and what role it played in the formation of our country. Unfortunately chain hotels and restaurants catering to tourists have somewhat watered down the impact of this historical town.

This stretch of driving brought me over two important imaginary lines. First I officially crossed into the West when driving through the town of Kinsley, Kansas. I also stood on the 100th Meridian while in Dodge City, KS. Like I said very important.

::chirp chirp::

After all of this I hopped back on the interstate and two hours later I arrived in Denver to two very lovely ladies...more on that soon. The ride took a total of nine hours...the longest stretch of the trip - I'm glad I took the scenic route and saw a different type of American history than I am used to exploring in New England.

Oh and hey, though I know you've been following my blog religiously, if you want an overview of where I've been click on the map in the upper right hand corner.

You're the best, the absolute best.

I Found Something Pretty in Kansas...

2010-11-29T07:28:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

Greetings from Kansas! Yesterday marked the one week down three to go milestone in my trip! I feel like I have already done so much but have so much more ahead of me. I arrived in Wichita to my friend PJ's apartment on Saturday night. I was starving so we went out to PJ's favorite local brewpub called the Anchor. We had great food and wonderful beer - and laughed really, really hard about high school memories. The next day we lounged for a bit and called a dear friend on speaker phone (Hi Jessy!) and then went to get Thai food which was delicious. The areas of Wichita that I'd seen up to this point were very much "run of the mill" in that there were Wal-Marts and McDonalds. So when PJ offered to take me on a drive to see a wind farm that he helped build I said YES. The wind farm is the project that brought PJ out to Kansas and I was excited to finally see what took him away from the ocean. I wanted to see the unique Wichita away from all the stores you can see everywhere - and I definitely saw it ( the smallest, middle of nowhere towns I have ever seen). We also planned the drive so that we would be arriving at the wind farm around sunset - making this a beautiful drive.

Pretty right? It was a great feeling driving so long then seeing forty turbines come into focus. Today I will be resolving some phone drama (still working on getting mine replaced) and heading to Old Town where PJ and I will be having lunch. I'm also sorting out in more detail my four days in Colorado. There is a lot I want to see and do.

Until then my friends.

PS - are you proud of me for not making one Wizard of Oz reference? Not even one!

Walking in Memphis

2010-11-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

Today I :

...cried because Elvis died.

...saw the sun where stars were made.

...walked with my feet ten feet off of Beale.

...heard the ring, the ding and the zing.

(extra credit if you can tell me what those last two references are from.)

Translation:

Today was let's be a tourist day. I woke up at 7:00am (which is nothing to sneeze at when you went to sleep at 1:30am because Pretty Woman was on HBO) and sorted out my day. I knew what I wanted to do but had to work out logistics. I'm usually a go by the seat of my pants kind of gal but today required a bit of planning and looking back on it I think I did a damn fine job...a damn fine job indeed.

First stop was Graceland. When I was planning my trip I knew I wanted to go to Asheville NC to see Eli and to Wichita KS to see my dearly beloved PJ - but I needed a stop in between. Pigeon Forge TN was on the list (I'll let you figure out why) but Memphis had more to offer (sorry Julie) and it was more of a half way point. So of course Graceland was a must see. It was cool, but I'm not sure I was all that blown away. It seemed very much like an amusement park in the way they shuffled you around from "attraction to attraction" and even shuttled you to the actual Graceland estate. Getting there right when they opened and being there in the off season really made this a more enjoyable tour though. I could tell by they way it was set up that they usually have way more people. I appreciated not having to use my elbows to get a decent view of things (which I'm not above doing). I understand people from all over the world come out to see this Historic Landmark and I know they need to accommodate them. It just took some of the magic away for me. The house was interesting and it was really moving to imagine Elvis sitting on that couch, or playing that piano and I also got to go inside his personal jets. I did embarrass myself and teared up a bit at his gravesite. Even if you don't like his music you have to admit he was incredibly talented* - and he died far too young. This year he would have been 75.

After Graceland I took the shuttle back to my hotel and picked up my car and drove to Sun Studio where Elvis was "discovered" and other greats like Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison and others recorded. It was incredible to stand in the room where some of my favorite musicians recorded some of my favorite songs. At the end of the tour everyone was having a friend take their pictures with the famous microphone used in the recording sessions. Except me - I just took a picture of the microphone. I'm realizing that while traveling alone you need to get creative if you want to be in any of the pictures you take (see above).

(The large photo in the far right of this picture was taken in that exact spot - you can make out the soundproofing tiles that are the same ones still hanging on the wall today)

Following Sun Studio I drove to downtown Memphis and checked out Beale Street. A short but awesome street with lots and lots of music, food and neon signs. I went to the B.B.King Blues Club and got myself a famous BBQ sandwich and a beer and watched live music for about an hour. It was awesome. My waiter was totally great and introduced me to the next act - a 17 year old who was incredible on guitar and had a great voice. He was backed up by a drummer, bassist and piano player one of which was the father to some American Idol contestant - I don't remember which one.

Once I left the restaurant I walked around for about thirty minutes then hopped on a trolley to the arts district and visited the galleries. I also took the Riverfront Trolley that took me and a few others down to the Mississippi River and through some fancy neighborhood. At one point the trolley conductor (driver? steerer?) started singing Blue Christmas all Elvis - like into the speaker. It really made me feel like I was somewhere new - completely different from the T's in Boston. If anyone is ever in this part of the country Beale street is a must and a ride on the trolleys.

Now I'm back at my hotel, in bed and gearing up for the big drive to Wichita tomorrow.

Thanks for reading!

*And sweet lookin'

Day Five: Asheville to Memphis

2010-11-25T19:39:00.000-08:00

Oh hello again! This is my third blog post tonight - please don't unsubscribe, I'm just trying to make up for lost time...okay? Okay thanks. Today I drove from Asheville, NC to Memphis, TN. It was a long drive. It rained. It was hard to see. I took pictures in Nashville.

My drive through Nashville was actually a little sad. I'm not sure if it was the construction sites everywhere (from the floods?), the complete lack of activity even in the tourist part of town (Thanksgiving?) or the impending doom the sky was threatening (I don't know what / who to blame for that) but there was nothing going on! I didn't even get out of the car. I can see the potential though. Was I just there on an off day? Has anyone been to Nashville and had a totally tubular time?

I'm currently in my hotel room in Memphis, TN. It's still raining so I'm glad I'm not in a tent tonight! I had Thanksgiving dinner alone at a local Cracker Barrel (actually it was just over the border in Mississippi) and really enjoyed myself. It was a bit lonely at first but a call from Emily, Dan and my parents made the world seem right again. I get a bit lonely on the road by myself but also really enjoy having time with my thoughts. I really love the nights around the campfire but also am looking forward to time with friends in Kansas, Colorado, California and Ohio. I think it was just at the front of my thoughts today since I've spent every Thanksgiving with my family since I was a kid. Look at me rambling on, I promised myself I'd keep the third post short!

Thanks for reading!

Thunder thunder, lightning lightning.

Bea

Day Three and Four: Asheville, NC

2010-11-25T19:13:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

I have the internet! Posting is slower than I'd like because for some reason trees haven't figured out a way to provide me with Wi-Fi...so until then I'll be posting when I'm in a hotel, at a friends house, or in a car parked close enough to an establishment with Wi-Fi.

After we last spoke I completed my drive to Asheville, NC in the rain. I had plans to meet up with my wonderful friend Eli who has just returned from thru-hiking the Applachian Trail and called him when I neared my campground. Like I just said he's wonderful and invited me to stay the night at his house with his Mom and his lovely lady, Kandy. Yes please! It was raining out and a night with my good friend Eli and another good friend called a bed sounded amazing. I made the forty minute drive from Asheville, NC to Clyde, NC and was greeted with a hug! Eli lives in a beautiful area with great views of the surrounding mountains. Because of the rain the fog was heavy and really quite ~~mistical. (Get it? MISTicle?)~~ pretty. We took it easy that evening with Eli telling hilarious and inspirational stories from when he was on the AT.

Wednesday morning we rose pretty early and hung around the house for a bit. His mother was preparing for a craft fair and needed some things done before we could go have our fun. I searched out some hikes and Eli and I left around 11:30. First stop was Barber Orchards which was a great little (duh) orchard and shop filled with yummy goodies about fifteen minutes away in Waynesville, NC.

After puchasing an apple fritter for myself and a turnover for Eli we made our way on to the Blue Ridge Parkway (realized we didn't have enough gas, went to get some, yadda, yadda, yadda) and drove 25 windy-ass miles in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to our first hike. THE DEVIL'S COURTHOUSE.

::shudder::

This is apparently where "the Devil holds court." It's also where Eli and I sat at the top to enjoy the breath taking (seriously) views and ate our "apple accessories."

The views from the Parkway are stunning enough but it was well worth it to make this "short but strenuous .5 mile hike" to the top to see even more incredible views.

After this neither one of us was really game for the four mile hike we had planned to do afterwards so we went for a more manageable hike on the Art Loeb trail on Mt. Pisgah. The Art Loeb trail is over thirty miles long - we hiked about two miles of it. Also, let me just point out that hiking with someone who just finished the Appalachian Trail is really intimidating. Props to Eli for being patient and kind as I huffed and puffed my way to the top - I'm exaggerating of course. Of course. The interesting thing about this trail was that we were hiking along what are known as balds. These grassy, treeless areas on the mountain are unique to the Southern Appalachian and somewhat unexplained. The nice thing about this hike was we were at the tippy top of the mountain - this means 360* views!

So while our hiking paths lead to the tops of mountains - they also lead to something else. That inevitable thing that comes after a nice day of hiking. Beer! (sorry Mom, it's true.) Apparently Asheville is "Beer City, USA" beating out Portland, Oregon for that title. Western North Carolina boasts fourteen breweries! FOURTEEN! We met up with Kandy and had lunch at Rosetta's in downtown Asheville (I'd been here on a previous visit) and each got a local brew-ha-ha. Afterwards Eli and I walked around downtown and visited Firestorm Cafe & Books of which he is a co-operative owner. Check out their mission statement - you'll find it is a refreshing approach to a local, small business.

This blog post is getting way too long so I'll end quickly. Eli + Bea + Kandy + beer + a campfire = how we ended the night.

The End.

Love,

Bea

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T17:48:00.000-08:00

I usually don't wait until New Year's to make a resolution if I feel the need to make one. And just like I don't wait until Valentine's Day to tell someone I love them I don't wait for Thanksgiving to be grateful or thankful for all that I have. BUT, I'm alone in a Memphis, TN hotel room, and it's raining out and I actually have an internet connection so I'm going to put a list together of some things I'm thankful for, and you're going to read it...right? Here goes.

I'm thankful for:
- My wonderful and amazing family and friends (hey, that's you!)
- All of the animals I've had in my life (and my parents for letting me have
  them and on *ahem* occasion taking care of them)
- My teachers - in all their many forms (see above)
- Timothy at the Horn Lake, Mississippi Cracker Barrel for bringing me dinner
  tonight and not asking why I was eating alone on Thanksgiving.
- The car in the hotel parking lot with the New Hampshire license plate - making
  me feel a bit closer to home.
- My studio - oh my studio.
- The door and the deadbolt that is separating me from the man down the hall
  yelling terrible, terrible things.

And finally, I'm thankful to Blogger for giving me the ability to do this:

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

(that really dresses the place up a bit doesn't it?)

Day Three: Virginia to North Carolina

2010-11-23T11:28:00.000-08:00

Greetings from a Panera Bread somewhere in North Carolina! I pulled off the highway to take a break because it looked like it was about to pour...and now that I look out the window I see that it is pouring. That's going to make putting up my tent and building a fire a lot of fun tonight.

harsh or bitter derision or irony.

a sharply ironical taunt; sneering or cutting remark: areview full of sarcasms.

After leaving my ShopRite last night I drove the five miles back to camp and passed the coolest, coolest, coolest diner ever. It was straight out of Grease but it was in the middle of nowhere. Upon further inspection I discovered it was also a drive in Movie Theater. I wished I could stay a few more days because they were advertising a Thanksgiving dinner special. If you feel the need, you can look it up...Mayberry Drive In Movie Theater and Diner.

When I got back to camp I built a fire and stared at it for about an hour. It was nice to just have time to sit and think and think some more. I went to bed about 9:30 knowing I wanted to get up early.

I woke up around 7:00 this morning (with a little help from some woodland friends...details to follow) and went on a hike around Smith Mountain Lake. It was gorgeous and absolutely peaceful and quiet. I couldn't have asked for better weather.

I also was coming across a lot of old wooden structures like this one:

I later found out they were used at tobacco curing barns back when people were "first" settling here. I saw a total of six over the course of about 50 miles. Two of them were like the one above, dilapidated while others were re-inforced and being used as garages or sheds.

The drive so far from Smith Mountain Lake State Park to Asheville has been the most scenic overall drive...about an hour more until I reach my campsite at French Broad River Campground. I will be there for two nights, and it will be really nice not to have to drive tomorrow. I am hoping the weather will clear up so I can do some hiking.

Today I...

...learned that squirrels running around outside your tent at 7:00 in the morning will serve as a better wake up call than any alarm clock. Especially if there are leaves on the ground these little guys are capable of making a shit load of noise. Enough that will make you sit up straight in your tent thinking they are something much, much bigger.

...realized how scary it is to have a North Carolinian cop drive behind you for ten miles when you have plates from a state whose residents are known as "MassHoles."

...followed an 18 wheeler for about 50 miles with the saying "You are not your past" written in the dirt on it's back end.

...realized I need to buy a tarp.

Thanks for reading friends...you're the best!

Adventure Time: Day One and Two

2010-11-22T15:19:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

I'm writing to you from the parking lot of a ShopRite in Hardy, VA...I'm stealing internet from a SUBWAY...two days on the road and I'm already a felon. I am so happy to finally be on the road and have a lot of things to say but I'm going to keep this short...I have a peanut butter and jelly sandwich to eat and a fire to build.

Yesterday got off to a rocky start because my phone ended up dying on me the night before my departure. I spent about two hours in Connecticut getting a replacement, which actually worked out really well, it just took a long time. It was no big deal except I got to my campsite at six o' clock instead of three so the sun had already set. It was odd sleeping in a place having no idea what it looked like. I set up my tent by the light of my headlights and went in to town to have dinner. I had a slice of pizza and it was seriously amazing. I went back to my tent and wrote in my travel journal for a bit and was asleep by 9:30 so I could wake up early. This morning things looked completely different. This campsite has only five tent sites and the rest are for RV's...I was the only one tenting, apparently it's too cold to camp out but I found it perfect. Nice, crisp cool air. I was a bit cold in the middle of the night so I remedied that by driving six hours south today. It is currently 58 degrees in Hardy. I'm staying in Smith Mountain Lake State Park which is really beautiful. I drove the Blue Ridge Parkway in and that was an amazing drive. At one point I was at a twenty one hundred foot elevation! My tent is all set up and I just came in to town to buy fire wood and some PB+J supplies. Tomorrow I'm waking up early to go on a hike around the lake and taking advantage of the park's hot showers! Next stop is Asheville, NC. ~~Enjoy the photos!~~ ~~My stolen internet is too slow to upload photos - I'll get those to you when I find an internet cafe.~~ Update! At Panera, here are the photos.

My first night's camp site at Dutch Cousins Campground in Denver, PA. This was taken the following morning when it was light out.

Camp site at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Look at those leaves! It's actually really nice having them - it makes sleeping on the ground a bit more comfy.

Thanks for reading! Going to go build that fire and sing camp songs.

Community Supported Art : Boston ARTchives

2010-11-08T07:52:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

There is a really exciting project that has formed in Boston and I'm very happy to be a part of it: Boston ARTchives

"Inspired by popular and effective CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) models and innovative product-sharing models (Netflix, Zipcar, local tool banks, etc.), Boston area artists are pooling together their art and lending it out through Boston ARTchives. Subscribers select pieces from the large, diverse ARTchives Collection and enjoy a rotating exhibit of local art on their very own walls. Their membership fees are distributed evenly amongst the artists. Boston ARTchives is operated by artists, for artists. Experience the thrill of being a collector without the prohibitive expense and storage concerns. Experience the satisfaction of being a supporter of local arts in a new and exciting way. Become a member today!"

I hope you will take a moment to check out the site and see what the project is all about - and help us spread the word! You can also become a fan of ARTchives on facebook and follow on twitter.

Artsome. Thanks for reading friend.

Bea Modisett: Tourist

2010-11-04T18:21:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

I am very excited to announce my first solo exhibition! I hope you'll make it to the opening or to the exhibit during gallery hours. The reception is two days before I depart on my cross country road trip - it's going to be a busy week!

Galler-e

20 Rugg Road #2G

Allston, MA

Opening Reception: November 19th 6pm- 10pm

Gallery Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 10am - 4pm

Friday - Sunday 12pm - 4pm

Hope to see you there!

EDIT: For those of you who were unable to make the opening the exhibit will be up until December 24th. Contact Gallery Director Evan Gordon to make an appointment during any of the above times at evan.egproductions@gmail.com

Invitational

2010-11-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

A few months ago I was asked by Barbara Moody to be her invitee in the annual Kingston Gallery Invitational, this year the exhibit is called Dialog. The concept of the exhibit is that each of the members at Kingston invite an emerging artist to hang a piece in the show along side them. The opening is Friday, January 7th as part of the First Friday festivities. Details to follow.

Thanks for riding the friend train!

PS- Today is November 1st, that means 20 more days until I leave on my journey!

Kingston Gallery

2010-10-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

I've just returned from an awesome weekend in Manhattan to some wonderful news. I have been voted in as an Associate Member to Kingston Gallery at 450 Harrison Avenue in Boston, MA. Having been a fan of Kingston since my early days of attending First Fridays I am very, VERY excited to be a part of this group. Associate Members are involved in most of the gallery's activities and I'm looking forward to gallery sitting and being a part of the First Friday celebrations. Associate Membership also raises opportunities for a solo show in the Center Gallery! An Associates exhibit is scheduled for August 2011 as well as an Associates/Members exhibit in January 2012.

My membership doesn't officially begin until January so stay tuned for details as they become available to me (i.e updated website, fellow associates, etc.)

Thanks for reading!

Road Trip!

2010-10-22T19:12:00.000-07:00

Hi friends,

I'm going on a journey! One that I've dreamt of for years and years now. A cross country solo expedition! Like I said in my last post I really like to explore - so this time I'm going to jam across the country and back and see what's what in this land of ours.

Here's the deal-y-o. This trip is a month long, beginning November 21st and concluding December 22nd. I will be driving across the country with SanFran as my destination. This trip is neatly planned to pass through where I have friends or where there are parks that I'd like to see/camp in. When I'm not staying with friends or in my tent (Dan's tent) I'll be treating myself to a shower and laundry at a local hotel. Here are the stops in order, what I'll be doing and why:

Denver, PA - eh, as a kid growing up between DC and RI I've explored all the tourist attractions in this area - but I can't drive more than eight hours a day so this is where I'll pitch my tent and stay a spell in Amish Country. Suggestions are welcome!

Hardy, VA - similar to the above but I'll stop by the Booker T. Washington National Monument and the wildlife refuge.

Asheville, NC - Hi Eli! A good friend lives here who I hope to meet up with - I say hope because he is awesome and has been on the AT - making him hard to get in touch with. Are you BACK YET?! Either way I'll be tenting here for two nights enjoying hikes and views as well as the very cool downtown.

Nashville, TN - Asheville to Nashville, yes I know. I'll be driving through here for lunch on Thanksgiving Day - I might make a stop at the Grand Ole Opry.

Memphis, TN - Sun Studio and Graceland! I'm here for two nights and the second night happens to be the last Friday of the month which means it's gallery night. An old time trolley brings people around to the galleries!

Wichita, KS - PJ LIVES HERE! A friend of mine since highschool is going to show me the sights - if KS has any.

Dodge City, KS - This is a pass through just so I can say "I got outta Dodge"

Denver, CO - Jen and Bre are kind enough to let me stay with them a few days - maybe they'll even want to hang out.

Boulder, CO - Remember Chase? After Hambidge he went on to University of Colorado at Boulder to get his MFA in ceramics - I'm going to go see what this is all about.

Moab, UT - Two days camping and hiking at Arches National Park.

Page, AZ - A half a day stop at Lower Antelope Canyon - my brother just visited this area and said it's beautiful and somewhat overlooked by tourists.

Grand Canyon, AZ - Nothing cool here - just a place to rest my head. LIE. Grand Canyon for two nights!

Death Valley, CA - Two nights camping in Death Valley - it's got a great history.

Tulare, CA - Staying in a hotel next to Sequoia National Forest - I think I might appreciate a bed after six days of camping.

Big Sur, CA - Camping in the Julia Pfeiffer State Park right on the coast. Apparently in winter months you can watch whales migrate off the shore!

San Francisco, CA - I'm going to drive up beautiful Route 1 and stay in SanFran with my friend Nate for a few days. A walk over the Golden Gate is the most solid plan I've made. After SanFran comes the reason I am taking this journey:

The California Zephyr!

The god of all North American train trips - I saw this and said "I need to figure out a way to get on that high speed locomotive." Remember the hint I gave? Go ahead - check it out.

So the return trip is not really set in stone (I guess the trip out isn't really either but it's pretty close) but I know that on December 13th I will be getting on the Zephyr and arriving in Chicago fifty-six hours later where I get to see my long lost friend Samantha. From there I think I'm going to Ohio and then definitely on to Niagara Falls for some winter festivities and hopefully meeting up with some family to take the train back down south to Rhode Island for the holidays. The whole way back will be bus and train - I'm sure it's going to be really nice not having to drive after three straight weeks of it. So there you have it friends! I can't wait! For those of you visual people out there who just skipped this mega long post:

(the long O - P stretch is when I'm on the zephyr)

I will be updating along my journey and will have a map tracking my progress as well in the side bar. Two other big pieces of unrelated news on the way.

I'm off to NYC tomorrow for the Graduate Portfolio Day at Parson's. We'll see!

Thanks for reading friends - you da' bomb!

Finding Inspiration/Losing Guilt

2010-10-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends!

I really like to go places and travel and explore. Sometimes though, I feel guilty leaving my studio for a long weekend - like I'm a neglecting my children (paintings). Like if I was really serious I'd be in my studio all day everyday, with no friends, no travels and eating stale cheerios because that's all I have in my pantry and I can't make time to go shopping. Shopping?! I can't shop! I'm painting damnit!

BUT...

I have found, and a wise soul helped lead me to this path, that while I may not be in my studio putting paint on canvas, I'm still working. Because really, what is more inspirational and thought provoking than this:

Sorento Harbor, ME (pictures don't do it justice)

This past weekend I went to Maine with my man friend Dan and saw the most inspirational sights. We climbed, hiked, canoed and walked and everywhere we went I saw things and thought about how exciting it would be to paint them - or at least derivatives. I am positive that when I get into the studio today, this weekend will make itself known (much like a camping trip in the White Mountains did here...)

A few more:

Our shadows at the top of Beehive Mountain in Acadia National Park, ME - one of the funnest (hardest) hikes I've ever done - with an amazing reward at the top.

At the top of Black Mountain which provides a 360* view of the grandeur of Maine at sunset.

I have many things in the works which I will be sharing with you soon, so stay tuned my friends, stay tuned. And hey, you're awesome - thanks for reading.

PS - It seems I'm not alone. Check out the post Joanne Mattera did on her blog about the "guilty vacation" and read her readers comments.

PPS - Do you ever feel guilty for not being in the studio? What inspires you?

Where I've Been...

2010-10-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

(taken from the Staten Island Ferry in the pouring rain)

Among other places. I'll be back with another update soon. Some good news on many fronts coming "atcha."

A New Painting

2010-09-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

Oh hello there! I didn't see you come in. Want to see something I've been working on that is finally complete?

This painting is titled The White Mountains: Remembered. A camping trip up to glorious New Hampshire inspired this guy. I haven't painted with oils since 2007 so it's been tough but fun slowly creeping back into it. It's so much different than pastel and acrylic and I'm just starting to find out how I work when things don't dry immediately. I'd love to hear your thoughts! So, I'm continuing my slow decent in to madness but enjoying the ride. I have two other paintings in the works right now...you'll see them soon enough my friends.

This is also the painting that I chose to include in the First Faculty Exhibition at the Maud Morgan Art Center in Cambridge. What do you mean you forgot? I told you to put in on your calendars!

Here's the scoop.

So, as always, thanks for listening. Also, be sure to check out www.thiscollectivepull.blogspot.com which I have been updating with relevant information about local artists, news and projects.

Maud Morgan Arts Faculty Show!

2010-08-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

As I mentioned in this past post I will be teaching three classes this coming Fall at the Maud Morgan Arts Center in Cambridge, MA. I am very excited about this and will be teaching some awesome classes! As a faculty member one of my recent paintings will be included in the Faculty Exhibition. I hope you will try and make it out!

I'm flattered to have "made it" on the front of the postcard - although I most likely will be exhibiting a different (smaller) painting. So there you have it - go ahead and put it on your calendar right now while I'm watching. There you go. Now you won't forget! See you there!

Whoa I'm A...

2010-08-08T17:11:00.000-07:00

...wicked bad blogger. Here's a picture of my sister's cat Doppler - does this make you hate me a little less for not updating?

Truth is...I've been painting with oil paint for the first time in three years and I don't want to feel like I have an audience while I'm going through this wild turpenoidy ride. I hope you forgive me. No? Not yet? Here's one more...

I'll be back soon my friends...real soon.

These Times They Are A-changin'

2010-07-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

Well friends, I have some very excited news to share with you -- actually A LOT of exciting news, but let's focus on one thing at a time. As those of you who follow my blog already know, I recently attended a five week residency at the Hambidge Center in Georgia. This was a life changing experience. NOT to sound corny, but really -- it brought many things in to absolute clear focus. I found real happiness while in the woods of Georgia painting my life away. I know painting is what I need to spend my life doing, and my current situation is not allowing me the time I need to pursue it with the focus that I'd like. So, I'm taking a plunge: I have given my notice and as of August 6th, 2010 I will no longer be employed as an Admissions Counselor at Montserrat College of Art. It feels good. Actually, after three years it feels really good. Working 40+ hours a week is exhausting and although I have managed to continue my studio practice I need more time (don't we all.) So - this Fall I will be teaching painting and drawing classes at the Maud Morgan Visual Art Center in Cambridge, MA two days a week. This frees up a huge amount of time for me to paint, and work harder at making a larger part of my income from the sales of my artwork (stay tuned for an etsy page...yes, even I will have an etsy page.) I am also very enthusiastic to take all that I have learned from previous teachers and mentors and pass it on to others who are just as passionate about making art as I am. I am thankful that the wonderful people at MMVAC have created a space and a program for students of all ages to have an opportunity to create.

Classes begin September 16th, so in the weeks between my leaving Admissions and joining the Maud Morgan family, I will be traveling to NYC, DC and the family beach cottage (shack) for some R&R&P (rest, relaxation and painting...corny? yes.)

The semester ends on November 20th and on November 21st I take off on a much bigger adventure - one of the bigger plunges I have taken. Planning is in full swing - and actually almost complete - but I don't want to let the cat out of the bag quite yet. I'll give you a very cheesy hint though...right here.

So there you have it friends. Hambidge gave me time to paint and an opportunity to meet new friends - but it also gave me the courage to take a leap and work towards my goal of painting full time to make a living. I'm excited about this new adventure and I'll be sure to keep you all updated.

And hey, the fact that you read my blog makes me feel like a million bucks...a million bucks my friends. So thanks.

It Happened Once and it's Happening Again...

2010-07-08T07:24:00.000-07:00

PAPERGIRL NORTHAMPTON

(sweet, sweet poster design by the one and only Brendan McCauley)

A hip-happening global project has found a home in the valley thanks to the fab people at Now.For.Art (I'd also like to add they are friends of mine...) So get up on it and contribute some work to this totally awesome, totally cool, totally bodacious project. Read more here...and here...and here (see! it's everywhere.)

**Also please do not misinterpret my lack of updates as my lack of progress or creation. On the contrary my dear friends - I have been making, seeing and doing a lot...so much that I haven't gotten to update the good ol' blog in what is going on three weeks. But trust your humble blogger...I'll be back. OH...I'll be back.**

...and hey, thanks for reading!

Studio Update

2010-06-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

Things are going well and I am really enjoying working with paint again. I think I mentioned it before, but I am very aware that some of the things I am doing with paint this time around couldn't have happened with out my two year love affair with pastel. No new finished paintings to report but below are a few shots of my studio as it stands.

When I came back from Hambidge I overhauled my studio trying to get it up to par with what I had in the Fischer Studio. It's not quite as clean, and no where near as huge, but taking these photos tonight made me realize how much I really do love my space. I'm lucky to have a studio that allows me to work (somewhat) large and to "spread out" as they say -- and I'm okay with not having a living room. I'm very excited about the painting I'm working on which you can see in the first image. Being at Hambidge gave me the time, solitude and confidence I needed to really explore and push through to new places in my work, I am happy to say that this has continued since my return and the reason I think I am so excited to get in the studio every night after work.

The view from my studio stoop, it's even better at sunset.

So that's that for now my friends. I'll be back, and thanks for reading!

Unloading the kiln.

2010-06-07T13:41:00.000-07:00

Guess what? This is my 100th post!
Below are photos from the much awaited Anagama Kiln Unloading -- this happened the final Saturday of my time at Hambidge so I only stayed for a short period of time since I wanted to be painting up until my final hour. This was a very collaborative and communal undertaking and if any of you have a chance to be a a part of an Anagama firing I would say to definitely, DEFINITELY, participate. If for no other reason than to drink beer at 2:00 in the morning next to a giant contained fire pit that is around twelve hundred degrees.

So there you have it folks. This was really cool to watch and some really awesome vessels were pulled out of the kiln. Some objects looked so much different than the artist expected that they didn't even recognize it as their own! Things also blew up and fused together forcing two artists to discuss who was the rightful owner of the piece! I won't be doing any more posts about my time at Hambidge, though I could do many, many more...and who knows, pictures from Hambidge might pop up now and again, but it is time to concentrate on the here and now. I am hoping to resume posting on a regular basis regarding the condition of my condition.

Three cheers for you my friends, thanks for reading, and here's to another hundred more!

Just Beyond the Garden

2010-06-02T14:05:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

Here is an image of Just Beyond the Garden, the last finished painting I created while at Hambidge (my studio at Hambidge [Fisher] was located just beyond another studio by the name of Garden, hence the title). You may recognize this painting from such posts as In Case You Were Wondering. I made a decent amount of progress on another painting after the completion of Garden, though time did not allow for it's completion. I have yet to decide to finish it or let it be since it would become a totally different beast now that I am back in Beverly. I am thankful for both of these paintings as they led to what I am currently working on and all revved up about. Also, Just Beyond the Garden is hanging in the lobby of Raymond James Financial Services in the plaza right next to Casa de Moda. They are very friendly, go have a look see!

Just Beyond the Garden, 42" x 60". Acrylic on canvas. 2010.

Also, I'm done messing around. Operation: Find a Photographer Friend to Photograph My Work has COMMENCED! Know anyone?

You're oh so kind for reading. I'll be back soon!

I know, I know...

2010-05-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

...I am a total slacker (not really though.) I haven't posted since leaving Hambidge on May 9th. My re-entry into the real world has been tougher than I thought it would be. I really found happiness at Hambidge, and now know what I need and want to do with my life, having had this experience makes it tough to come back to oil changes, bills, email, returning phone calls, etc. I was spoiled with the Fischer Studio, so upon my return I needed to overhaul my studio space at home (again) to make is a bit more suitable for painting. Having used the space for charcoal and pastel for the past two years, everything (everything, really) was covered in dust, and that dust was getting in my paint. I had to do a lot of sweeping and vacuuming to get things in to better shape. I have been painting and drawing since my return, but have found it tough to get back on a regular blogging schedule. I will get a post up about the unloading of the Anagama kiln and then get back to posting regularly about studio work. I promise...just give me a few more days. Rest assured my friends, all is well and good and things are happening! Oh, things are happening!

A Fond Farewell.

2010-05-09T06:12:00.000-07:00

Well friends, the time has come for me to bid adieu to the Hambidge Center. My time here has been meaningful and fruitful. I created a number of works that I can say I am happy with (and sold a few too!) but I also made an amazing move forward as I made the jump back into painting after years of working with pastel. I also formed strong friendships here, people from all over the country with a strong passion for their art, I hope to stay in touch with all of them. I must say I am a bit sad leaving my beautiful studio and this wonderful environment but I am ready to bring the momentum and energy I gained here back North (where I'm not the one with the accent) and I am excited to see what comes next. Of course it is a beautiful, sunny day here making my departure that much harder. A few images:

Mr. Big the Hambidge Kitty, helped to see me off, and an image of the Fischer Studio returned (almost) to it's original state, with one addition. I'm proud to join the hundreds of other Fellows that have passed through the Hambidge Center, it's signing the stairs that makes me an official Hambidge Fellow for life!

My trip home includes stops in D.C and Rhode Island and I will be posting along the way. I will also do another few posts once I am back North to update you on my last week at Hambidge (including the unloading of the Anagama kiln...) So stay tuned friends, and thanks for listening!

Up next: Bea goes to DC! ETA: 6:00pm

Well I Did Something Really Cool This Weekend...

2010-05-05T18:09:00.000-07:00

...I got to help fire an Anagama Kiln! An Anagama Kiln is a beast. It is a wood firing kiln that originates from Korea and China and takes 48 hours to fire and a week to cool down. This is not one of those electric kilns that you press a few buttons and come back the next day to your finished wares. The beautiful thing about an Anagama kiln is that unexpected things happen. The temperature is controlled by the amount of wood loaded and the amount of air allowed in to the kiln. Since most people can't stay up for forty-eight hours, four hour shifts are assigned to couples that may or may not have vessels in the kiln. I was lucky enough to assist Chase with his 1:00AM to 4:00AM shift...it was great! We sat around talking with other people watching the kiln. The heat was immense, but the glow the kiln had was beautiful. Below are a few photos taken of the firing, the kiln is cooling off until Saturday so I will update you with images from the unloading and the treasures that result from this amazing process!

That last photo is the team that came before Chase and I. The woman on the right is opening up the door to the kiln and the man on the right is loading the wood in. It's a dance, and it takes rhythm and synchronization since the temperature can change drastically if the door is open for more than a second or two.

I will update you all with studio images tomorrow. I am very excited about the painting I just finished!

Happy Cinco de Mayo!!!

In Case You Were Wondering...

2010-04-29T15:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,
Here it is...the studio as it stands as of 5:37 PM EST on April 29th, 2010.

Oh my, I have got a lot going on. Today begins the ten day countdown...and that my friends, is sad, very sad indeed. It also means that I am kicking it up a notch, and I currently have four paintings going right now. I wish I could stay here another three months, it's amazing the progress I feel I have made in the past four weeks...what could another twelve do?! So, the painting in the photo right above this little paragraph is what got the brunt of my energy today. I am really happy with the complexity of the composition, and the space that is being created, I would like to push the color a bit more, though not as far as in Tree Shrine which I feel was on the brink of...too much? As it moves along I will post a better image. The process for this painting has been a bit different, I began with washes to give the canvas more "history." I guess I should have taken photos of that. I also have been a bit more methodical in my approach after another painting that I kind of got a little carried away with...Jackson Pollock style. And that's all I have to say about that. I have two other small paintings going right now as well, about 13" x 20" which helps to balance out working on the larger paintings. I know I said I would talk about the weekend in this post, and I promise I will...next time. Besides, wasn't this one just riveting?

Hey you! Thanks for listening!

Studio Update

2010-04-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

A quick update to let you know I am still alive! Below is an image of the finished painting which I previously posted while it was still in progress. I titled it Tree Shrine. A lot happened over the weekend, but I am going to write about all of that tomorrow...I'm exhausted today and would like to go paint and read.

The painting is 44" x 60" and is the first painting I have done in about two years, aside from some small explorations. There were multiple times throughout the process where I thought "yea that could be done," but I wanted to push it until I really learned something, and I'm glad I did! I feel I made a lot of headway in this piece and have started two more paintings of similar size since completing this one. So....we'll see! Again, more tomorrow, I'm exhausted.

Thanks for listening!

As promised...and then some.

2010-04-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends!

I am going to make this quick as dinner starts in twenty minutes! Below is a photo of my studio from today, again see the difference from when I first arrived? Let's hope I can bring back up to par before my departure.

And a close up of the painting on the left, which is almost done. A few adjustments were made since this photo was taken, and I have a few more to make. I really want to think and look for a while before making them though, and as always, I love feedback / criticism. You can get a sense of scale from the photo above but the painting is about 40" x 44".

Oh oh! And I have five new neighbors!! They showed up about a week ago, but I didn't want to freak them out by taking their picture until today.

Mama Bird has certainly has been busy. I keep bringing spiders outside from my studio and have a feeling they wind up in the mouths of these little guys. And if you have forgotten what I look like, here's a nice little photo of me on the deck before dinner. I think I'm looking at the wasps flying around, but also smiling because this places makes me happy.

You're the best, thanks for listening!

But I Will Save That Post for Tomorrow...

2010-04-22T16:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

Happy Earth Day!! In salute to such a glorious holiday, I went on yet another hike! I actually didn't remember it was Earth Day until after the hike...but, "whatever." I still did it. I thought I would write endlessly about how beautiful this place is, but I'll just let you see it in the photos. The trails here are wonderful, long and meandering. The weather is consistently beautiful and all of the gorgeous greens are out! Chase and I had a great talk along the way, until it got too uphill to really say much. Enjoy!

The lilacs are taking over, and they look and smell beautiful! Also, I was going to post tonight about what has been going on in the studio, but I will save that post for tomorrow. Stay tuned my friends, stay tuned!

And hey, thanks for listening.

NOTE: I was informed after this post that those flowers are actually wisteria. A very close friend of lilacs.

Bea Modisett Paintings and Thoughts

And Just Like That.

A New Home

New Painting

On a Roll

Do You See What I See?

Studio Tour and Open Studios

The Thrill of it All...

Interview with Lydia Gordon

Sneak Peak!

Save the Date!

The Wall

Hey We're Just Fooling Around!

Whoa, whoa, whoa! What?

Upcoming Exhibition

Artists I Love

That's Outrageous!

Studios at Porter Mill

Time is Running Out!

Books, Magazines, Art Supplies, More Books, Paintings...

Just the Numbers

Upcoming Exhibition @ Kingston Gallery

Oh Canada!

Chicago to Ohio

The Union Pacific Queen

Be Sure to Wear Flowers In Your Hair...

Update

Funny Sidewalk Trash.

Route One Won

I Slept in Death Valley...

How Grand!

Arches National Park...

An Amazing Day in Boulder

Days Nine and Ten: Denver!

The Loneliest Road in America: From Kansas to Denver

I Found Something Pretty in Kansas...

Walking in Memphis

Day Five: Asheville to Memphis

Day Three and Four: Asheville, NC

Happy Thanksgiving!

Day Three: Virginia to North Carolina

sar·casm

Adventure Time: Day One and Two

Community Supported Art : Boston ARTchives

Bea Modisett: Tourist

Invitational

Kingston Gallery

Road Trip!

Finding Inspiration/Losing Guilt

Where I've Been...

A New Painting

Maud Morgan Arts Faculty Show!

Whoa I'm A...

These Times They Are A-changin'

It Happened Once and it's Happening Again...

Studio Update

Unloading the kiln.

Just Beyond the Garden

I know, I know...

A Fond Farewell.

Well I Did Something Really Cool This Weekend...

In Case You Were Wondering...

Studio Update

As promised...and then some.

But I Will Save That Post for Tomorrow...