Walking With Krystin

EnVISIONed Spouse

2012-01-30T12:19:00.002-08:00

A new experiment..... EnVISIONed Spouse.

Just helping the Universe to meet my needs!

Thanking you in advance for your cooperation, generous Universe!

2012-01-29T21:35:00.001-08:00

The art is popping up on Pinterest, check it out. Repin!

Oh My ACHIN' Pancreas Brain!

2012-01-19T22:41:00.004-08:00

Some of you may know that my youngest daughter is a type 1 diabetic. She was diagnosed 08/09/10 at age six. She is insulin dependent, relying on insulin injections for the past sixteen months, and recently moving on to an insulin pump.

I'm going to take this opportunity to explain a little bit about type 1 diabetes, in an effort to let you understand the real meaning in this piece.

Type 1 diabetes is unlike the diabetes you hear about in the media. This is likely not the diabetes that your middle aged neighbour got last month.

Type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune disease. It is unpreventable. It is incurable. It is for life. It IS potentially life threatening. The consequences of mismanagement are ongoing and unnerving.

It is theorized that a child that spontaneously develops type 1 diabetes, with no family history, likely experienced a significant virus sometime in the six weeks prior to diagnosis. Rowan was diagnosed with Hand, Foot and Mouth disease July 4th. I remember her covered in tiny blisters, so unbelievably uncomfortable. Me never knowing that her pancreas was a ticking time bomb.

It is theorized that while her immune system was attacking this virus, it became confused. For whatever reason it attacked and destroyed the insulin producing cells of her pancreas.

She did not get this from eating too many cupcakes. I did not pour sugar down her throat as an infant (and I say that with a smile on my face, just for your reference). She was not lazy and sedentary. She was, and is, an active, fun loving child. Well.... she was. Until she began exhibiting symptoms.

Doesn't this sound like a great time for me to touch on some of those symptoms? Look at it this way, I had no idea what was wrong with Rowan when she first started getting sick. Maybe if I had known the clues, had some inkling as to what I was staring in the face, I could have gotten her help sooner. Had I known something was so excruciatingly wrong.

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes:

Increased and unquenchable thirst
increased urination
lethargy
paleness
purple circles under the eyes
extreme weight loss
increased appetite
headaches
tingling in the limbs
fruity smelling breath
seizures
coma

This piece came about, because in the course of managing my daughter's disease, much of my life, my knowledge, has been put to the side.

Bizarre knowledge that I never thought I would know now fills my mind: that 1 unit of fast acting insulin will cover 30 grams of carbohydrates. That one unit of fast acting insulin will lower her blood glucose levels by 6 mmol/L. That 1 cup of blueberries equals 15 carbohydrates. That ten french fries at McDonalds equals 15 carbohydrates. That the two pieces bread for her school lunches are approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. That lollipop she wants so badly: 8 grams of carbohydrates.

Yet I can't recite my telephone number without having to turn to my ten year old daughter for validation.

The brain in this piece has been replaced by a pancreas. That is much of what I am.... an artificial pancreas for my child. That hovering that I try so hard not to do with her, her lifeline. The winds of change blow fast and furious with type 1 diabetes.... hence the weather vein.

Ten percent of all diabetics are type 1. But of that ten percent of diabetics, 90% are children. Canada has the 6th highest incidence of type 1 diabetes in the world. The greatest increase has been in children ages 4-9. Preschooler's account for 5% of all type 1 diabetics.

Knowledge is power. It is my hope that by sharing my knowledge, I can help you recognize a child needing medical help. Hope I can spare you being told "I'm glad you brought her in when you did, another four hours and you likely would have lost her".

My daughter will not outgrow this disease. She will not mysteriously heal herself. A pancreas transplant is not an option. An insulin pump is not a cure (did you know that the insertion sites of an insulin pump must be changed every three days? Two guesses who does that. Yup!)

My beautiful daughter is too young to manage this disease on her own. She's learning. In age appropriate steps. She has the rest of her life to learn how to manage this disease. For now, it is me. Hoping to lessen her burden, and she strengthens her wings in her pursuit and desire to learn to fly for herself.

I have heard of 70 year old women, with an adult diabetic child, and those women can hear in their son's voices if they have low blood sugars. That will be me and my girl. Our journey together, til death do us part.

Thanks for listening to me ramble on. Diabetes is one of my more passionate subject. Especially type 1!

"OH MY ACHIN' PANCREAS BRAIN!!"

The Art of Krystin Goodsell

2011-10-28T10:23:00.002-07:00

"Shadows Looming"

2011-10-02T11:41:00.004-07:00

When one experiences disaster, or sudden dramatic illness or profound change, there is a point in time when the shadows of change loom heavy in the air, without realizing it, until the floor has fallen out from beneath.

That period of time is what "Shadows Looming" (24 x 36 acrylic canvas) is all about. The weeks before Rowan (7) was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes (aka insulin dependent diabetes, aka juvenile diabetes, aka brittle diabetic). Rowan was slowly shutting down, her pancreas already broken, but none of it had yet come to our attention.

The soldiers of Type One Diabetes were preparing for battle.... and we had no idea.

DX Age 6

2011-10-01T11:58:00.004-07:00

DX Age 6 is an assemblage piece paying tribute to the changes in my family's life since the diagnosis of my youngest daughter of a type one diabetic.

This piece contains many tiny areas of interest, each drawer pulls open to reveal a statistic regarding type one diabetes.

I invite you to visit the full album of DX Age 6, and check out some of the more easily missed details:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150337248197346.371931.8375502345&saved#!/pages/Krystin-Goodsell/8375502345

Thank you for your interest and your ongoing support. Wishing a lifetime of good health for your loved ones.

Creative Wishes,

Krystin Goodsell
www.diabeticdiagnosis.blogspot.com

Work In Progress

2011-09-30T21:43:00.003-07:00

If you were to walk into my kitchen right now, you'd know something was certainly up.

For sitting atop a folding table is three quarters of a human form. Upright.

I am in the process of creating a papier-mache sculpture to the exact measurements of my youngest daughter Rowan, aged 7.

The final goal to be a life sized figure of my seven year old daughter. Spray painted white. Then covered in one year's worth of used syringes. Syringes required everyday as life sustaining therapy to my wee daughter, who is a type one diabetic.

Think that'll make a statement?

Until then... everytime I walk into the kitchen (unfortunately) I see this looming figure and it scares the junk outta me. You'd think with all the time I've put into the project thus far, I'd remember it was there.

Earth without "art"

2011-09-30T21:41:00.002-07:00

All Hallows Eve

2011-09-19T00:45:00.002-07:00

"All Hallows Eve"
mixed media canvas
7" x 7"

Donated to the Mission Arts Centre for their Halloween festivities.

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=hp#!/event.php?eid=265029556845833

Walking Wounded

2011-08-20T15:47:00.001-07:00

We are the walking wounded

Silently navigating hospital corridors

Overhead flourescents illuminating our exhaustion

Highlighting tired eyes and tear stained cheeks.

We are the walking wounded

Wearing masks of bravery for our children's sake

Cheap facades crumbling easily when little ones sleep

Heavy hearts needing comfort away from children's eyes and ears.

We are the walking wounded

Witnessing our children's howls and wails

Wearing their pain as though it were our own

Vain attempts to lessen their burdens.

I am, indeed, walking wounded.

The diagnosis does not wear my name

But by marking my daughter as one of it's own

My spirit has been forever be scarred.

Yet we, the walking wounded, keep on walking.

Picking up the pieces

Kissing injection sites and offering cheap distractions

All the while wanting to sacrifice ourselves for their sake.

But we can't.... and so we keep on walking.

Walking though wounded

One foot, then the other

Wearing brave faces.

Just for them.

Always.

"Grateful Heart"

2011-03-28T17:30:00.004-07:00

"Grateful Heart"

20 x 20

acrylic canvas

Donated to "Rowan's Recruits" benefitting the TELUS Walk to Cure Diabetes.

Every walker registered with Rowan's Recruits, and for every donation over $20 will have the opportunity to win this painting.

www.jdrf.ca/walk

They Could Really Use A Wish

2011-02-13T14:13:00.002-08:00

Usually I try very hard to keep my diabetic posts at their proper home: "Adventures In Parenting A Diabetic" but I'm particularly fond of this l'il video of mine, and all the brave happy faces included within it.

If you'd like to make a donation to "Rowan's Recruits" for our 10K journey on the Telus Walk To Find A Cure, please visit: http://jdrfca.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&eventID=981&participantID=90886

You are also able to register to walk as a part of Rowan's Recruits at that link.

And on behalf of the 250 million diabetics world wide, and especially on behalf of my seven year old l'il diabetic wonder: "Thank you!!!"

Gypsy Wagon Zine (Spring 2011 Issue)

2011-01-26T18:44:00.006-08:00

The Spring 2011 Issue of the Gypsy Wagon Zine is *finally* finished and ready to visit the printer..... come visit us at: http://gypsywagonzine.blogspot.com/

2011 Visual Art Journal

2010-12-21T19:25:00.004-08:00

I have been working on the same visual art journal for the last four years. It was originally a college level mathematics textbook, and is more than 800 pages. I am maybe halfway through altering it with recollections of my journey.

But a New Year looms large ahead of us, and after reflecting on the journal for a bit, I came to the conclusion that it is time to move onto a new book. Don't get me wrong.... I love that journal, it is nearly a chronological record of my last few years. The happy, and the sad are detailed in that book... including death, divorce and a sexual assault. Today, as I look happily towards the coming year and what lays before me, I know it is time to gently put that book to rest, and to move onto a new chapter in my life. The *current* chapter.

I have come to the conclusion that I have a thing for textbooks. Maybe some post-adolescent academic angst or something, who knows. But I picked up a spiral bound text book at the local thrift store for a dollar. I decided to work with a spiral bound book this time, as with my previous journal, the farther into the centre of the book I delved, the beginning pages were beginning to loosen. Only time will tell if I have more luck with the spiral bound.

In the meantime, here is the cover of the newest journal, as well as some excerpts. Happy Holidaze!

Displayed Pages:

1) Cover of new journal "Art Of Becoming"

2) 2011 Mind Map. I don't "resolve" I plot, slowly and persistently.

3) "I Believe In Me"

4) "There's Something Growing There"

5) Untitled tree

Evolution Of A Painting....

2010-12-05T14:17:00.001-08:00

A Tribute To The Tick-Tick-Ticking Of My Biological Clock

2010-11-09T08:47:00.007-08:00

Now don't get me wrong. I am not completely baby-crazy. I love and adore the two little girls that I have the privellege of calling my daughters. But somewhere, deep amidst the biological ooze, my cells seem to have been stamped with the biblical quote "be fruitful, and multiply....".

I have known for quite sometime that I am finished with the baby days of my lifetime. Until the day that I am bestowed with grandchildren. However, my womb sometimes mourns that it will never feel the movement of another child growing. I look at my beautiful little girls and wonder about the son that I always wanted, but never arrived.

Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't trade my children or my life for anything. So I'm amazed how strongly some of us are programmed to breed. Let's face it, since my youngest was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in August I am more than done! Prince Charming could gallop along my side on his steed, promising the sun, the moon and the stars, and I still wouldn't have the time or interest for a baby. Who can have a baby when you're testing blood sugars four times a day and wrestling a six year old to the ground twice a day to administer an insulin injection.

So here it is. My tribute to my biological clock. Long may it tick! But could it please do so quietly???

Another New Art Journal Entry

2010-10-31T12:54:00.002-07:00

"One day when I am old and gray
My withered body considering decay,
If single I have chosen to stay
At least I can contentedly say
I lived each aspect of life my way...
And didn't take much shit from anybody."

KCG 2010

New Visual Journal Entry

2010-10-30T21:59:00.002-07:00

I will not bellow just to be heard

Nor will I be walked upon.

I will not be owned.

A Mother's Struggle To Cope

2010-10-26T12:00:00.001-07:00

I have added some of my visual art journal pages to "Adventures In Parenting A Diabetic" simply because they are all my processing and trying to come to terms with this new overwhelming presence in our lives.

Hope you'll have a peak.... www.diabeticdiagnosis.blogspot.com

Pretty Remarkable, Pretty Amazing, Pretty Accurate...

2010-10-25T02:12:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Gilbert: New Ways To Think Of Creativity

2010-10-23T10:27:00.002-07:00

I found this amazingly enlightening! I'm going to embrace my inner house-elf now...

Creative Chaos: The Art of Krystin Goodsell

2010-10-10T11:59:00.002-07:00

Diagnosis Diabetes: The Plight of Type 1's

2010-10-08T08:43:00.001-07:00

If this video moves you in any way, shape, or form, please..... PLEASE.... consider sharing it with as many people as possible. Knowlege is power, but in order for there to be knowledge, we have to start with awareness.

Thank you

Missing In Action?

2010-10-04T15:15:00.002-07:00

Due to my youngest daughter's health crisis this summer, and the daily fallout of her new diagnosis, I find myself able to post less and less here. Doesn't mean I'm not coming back, it just means that, unfortunately, art has found itself on the backburner for the time being.

Note to self Krystin: this is JUST for the time being.

In the meantime, I would like to invite you to visit me at "Adventures Of Parenting A Diabetic" at http://www.diabeticdiagnosis.blogspot.com/

Thank you, and creative wishes!
Krystin

Sketch and Guess.....

2010-09-28T09:50:00.001-07:00

I've never considered myself to be particularly good at portraits. Yet apparently, that doesn't stop me. So I'm curious if anyone is able to recognize who is in the image?

Ugh

2010-08-19T16:33:00.006-07:00

Let me begin by sharing my mortification of even having to post this. It's amazing what we will resort to for our children.

My daughter Rowan (6) was admitted to BC Children's Hospital August 9th with diabetic katone acidosis. There is no family history of diabetes within our clan, so when she began acting strangely, diabetes didn't even register on my radar. Fortunately (maybe miraculously) it was finally recognized for what it was, and she was rushed to the hospital where emergency staff advised that if I had waited a mere four hours later, she would have likely fallen into a coma, and possibly passed away.

I can't even begin to express what our hospital stay was like, but I am forever grateful for the physical and emotional care offered at BC Children's Hospital.

Needless to say, I have not been able to work since August 9th. Rowan requires glucose monitoring four times a day, and insulin injections twice a day. Trust me, she fights them off like a wildcat, and as she gets healthier, she gets stronger, and I am still just the bad guy. Giving her needless to keep her healthy, let alone alive.

Unfortunately, I am ELEVEN HOURS SHORT of being able to receive an EI Claim!!! I do not qualify for social assistance, or any other social programs at this time.

As much as I am embarassed to ask, I hope friends and family may be in a situation to make a small donation to this "Rowan fund" so that I can continue to focus on keeping things stable with her health, and our home. Any drastic changes will have her feeling as though it is all her fault, and as it is, right now, we are all still mourning the loss of a healthy happy child.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read this plea. I appreciate your understanding and compassion that this step is nothing I take lightly.

Sincerely,
Krystin, Trinity and Rowan

Who Does She Think She Is? THEATRICAL TRAILER

2010-06-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Gypsy Wagon Zine

2010-06-13T10:21:00.004-07:00

Have you ever heard of a zine? If it helps, it's pronounced "zeen".

For those of you who are not familiar with this term, a zine is an independently published, low budget, grass-roots magazine (for lack of a better term. Hence 'zine').

Zine's are a combination of visual art and written word. As a mixed media artist, this concept is hard to resist!

The Gypsy Wagon zine is a 5" x 7" black and white quarterly publication, with a feminist perspective, focusing on the creative aspects of life, and living more authentically, or as we on board the Gypsy Wagon call it "Liberated Living". Our premiere issue contains: Artist Interview, a featured art project, poetry, visual art pages, various artist contributions, and articles. A free ATC kit is also included with each purchase.

For more information, please visit: www.gypsywagonzine.blogspot.com

Our premiere issue may be sampled at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehLbvmIt8D8

Funktional Art....

2010-05-31T15:50:00.004-07:00

Sometimes you have a piece of furniture that is full of potential, and not much else! Here's my before and after pictures of my television table, which was an antique writer's desk in a previous carnation.

Crescendoh.....

2010-05-18T08:53:00.001-07:00

http://blog.crescendoh.com/readers_share/2010/05/my-reconnection-with-creativity-by-krystin-clarkgoodsell.html

Everything NEXT to the kitchen sink

2010-05-17T17:08:00.003-07:00

I always get a chuckle when flipping through home decorating magazines, their kitchens always seem so sterile, so minimalist. I always am boggled that they don't have a scene like this next to the kitchen sink. A perpetual fixture in my house, the paintbrushes and paint wells next to the sink.

The Gypsy Wagon is coming!

2010-05-10T11:53:00.001-07:00

I'm terribly excited to announce the upcoming debut issue of "Gypsy Wagon" a 5x7 black and white mixed media zine focusing on creative arts and liberated living.

Submissions are currently being accepted for this premiere issue. If you are interested in submiting something loosely inspired by the "Gypsy" theme, I invite you to submit jpegs no later than Tuesday May 25th. We are also open to receiving submissions of poetry or written word.

Currently retail locations are being secured for the distribution of Gypsy Wagon, and will also be available online as well. Any submitting artist will have their full contact information, as well as a description of their spectrum of work included in the booklet. They will also receive a complimentary copy of the debut issue!

Please send submissions to: submitgypsywagon@hotmail.com

Please also feel free to forward this call for submissions to any interested party!

Thank you so much for your time, and sending you all warm creative wishes!

http://gypsywagonzine.blogspot.com/

Reclaimed Novel Page

2010-05-05T16:43:00.002-07:00

She Longed To Be Free

2010-05-03T15:07:00.002-07:00

"She longed to be free...

Not realizing she had been all along"

KG 2010

Collage Portrait

2010-04-30T09:27:00.002-07:00

A collage of my precious little roommates.

I've had alot of interest in this style of collage for memorials. Frankly, I'm honoured that I would be entrusted with that sort of project.

Some of my works....

2010-04-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

"Home Sweet Home"

2010-03-22T14:58:00.000-07:00

Visual Art Journal Pages

2010-03-04T16:17:00.004-08:00

Quickening Moon

2010-03-03T18:17:00.004-08:00

Toward the end of winter, people and wildlife have used up much of their reserves, so be cautious and conservative if you find resources stretching thing. Conversely, if you have enough to share, look to help others. Donating to a food bank or cooking a supper for a friend who's lost a job can soften the bite of this sharp Moon. Assist wildlife with rich foods, suet, corn and fresh water. Check forecasts of extreme cold, and protect vulnerable plants if necessary. Trees are especially vulnerable if warm weather that makes the sap run is followed by severe cold.

Magically, create abundance via giveaways and gratitude for what you have. Pray for people experiencing famine and hardship; contribute to charities that aid them. Work spells of protection for the land and wildlife. ~ Elizabeth Barrette

I would just like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who visits here; everyone who has borne witness to my creative journey.

Peace....
Krystin

Breaking Into The Vault

2010-02-27T13:16:00.003-08:00

"GnarLed" framed acrylic canvas (custom commission) 2005.... Sold.

Wabi Sabi Gnome Home

2010-02-23T17:09:00.004-08:00

Wabi Sabi gnome home constructed of collaged slide mounts and beach combing finds. Wabi sabi is a beauty of things imperfect, impermanent and incomplete. It is a beauty of things modest or humble. It is a beauty of things unconventional.

Another Completed Ruby Dog's Art Sample!

2010-02-18T09:40:00.004-08:00

Here's an altered Pocohontas doll I've assembled for Ruby Dog's Art House. Wonder what I'll have for next week? :)

"She believes in change" dare, dream.... do!!!

2010-02-14T11:30:00.008-08:00

Another sample for Ruby Dog's Art House 623 Kingsway (@ Fraser) Vancouver BC 604-873-2825 http://www.rubydogonline.com/

Shadow Box Sample

2010-01-22T21:04:00.002-08:00

Samples: Altered Slide Mount/Altered Tag

2010-01-17T11:54:00.006-08:00

I am very excited to be assembling samples for a local 'unique' art store, as it gives me an obligation to be creative!! Here is a quick glimpse on some of what I've been working on. There's much more behind the scenes, but because these were the 'smallest' projects, thus finished first. If you are in Vancouver, and in need of a creative fix, visit Leanne at Ruby Dog's Art House (where you can meet Ruby the dog personally!) at 623 Kingsway (@ Fraser) or visit online at: http://www.rubydogonline.com/

Life

2010-01-13T17:56:00.002-08:00

My life is much like a collage in progress. Rearranging and reassessing which elements work, which don't. Very few elements are actually glued down permanently. Instead, I continue rearranging, playing, moving from this and that from here to there, trusting that eventually the composition will become balanced.

Thailand Buddha Tree

2010-01-03T14:39:00.004-08:00

Thailand Buddha Tree is one of my favourite paintings I've completed. It was conceived based on a photograph my brother had taken while visiting Thailand. Thieves had tried to make off with a huuuuuge Buddha stone carving. They later abandoned the iconic sculpture, as they simply couldn't carry it any further. Abandoned, and nearly forgotten, over time the jungle began to grow around Buddha, nearly consuming it.

I find it hard to believe that I was in the middle of painting this piece exactly five years ago. I was nine months pregnant with my second child, and just desperate to finish the piece before her imminent arrival. I don't know what it is about pregnancy, but it just makes my creativity skyrocket.

I was able to finish the canvas before Rowan arrived February 11, 2004. I wonder if this piece is so special to me because of the memories it carries with it.

Happy New Year!

"She Leapt"

2009-11-26T10:40:00.003-08:00

"The creative is the place where no one else has ever been. You have to leave the city of your comfort, and go into the wilderness of your intuition. What you'll discover will be wonderful. What you'll discover is yourself." ~ Alan Alda

A Pair of Recycled Stockings

2009-11-22T22:05:00.003-08:00

Perhaps the ultimate recycling?

2009-11-18T09:20:00.004-08:00

A thrift store winter sweater converted into a holiday stocking.

New Work

2009-11-14T21:05:00.003-08:00

Untitled
12 x 16
acrylic paint and beeswax

"Battle Of The Blankets"

2009-11-14T10:52:00.000-08:00

Lest We Forget....

2009-11-11T12:42:00.009-08:00

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place, and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead, short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved, and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch, be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

Of the 105,210 members of the British Armed forces of the first World War who have no known graves, 19,660 were Canadian. The names of these men are inscribed on memorials in Canada and Europe, 11,285 are on the Vimy Memorial and 6994 on the Commonwealth Memorial at the Menin Gate in Ypres. On the Newfoundland memorial at Beaumont Hamel are the names of 815 Newfoundlanders who have no known grave. Valour Remembered!

much heartfelt gratitude to all who have served, defended and

made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Thank you..... Krystin and family.

Butterfly Storm

2009-11-04T21:53:00.002-08:00

A Mural's Progression: E'cole Mission Central Elementary School 2009

2009-11-01T21:51:00.006-08:00

Dear E'cole Mission Central Elementary School (staff, students and volunteers alike!):

Thank you very much for the opportunity to share my creativity within the school's community. I got to meet so many new people, and I carry away with me your kind words and many compliments.

I had alot of inquiries from the students about what it takes to be an artist. Here it is in a nutshell: If you can dream you can do it, you CAN do it! Practice, practice, practice. I hope to see in the years to come, many of us pursuing our own personal dreams.

Thank you again! Merci beaucoup!

Krystin Clark-Goodsell

Halloween Wreath

2009-10-09T21:43:00.002-07:00

I think I'm going to add some candy corn to it.

Mural Continues....

2009-10-06T19:25:00.002-07:00

Sure, the mural's nice.... but the two little girls in front of it are my *true* masterpieces!

Here's a peek at the development of the mural, at eighteen hours in.

Custom Collages Available

2009-10-03T18:55:00.003-07:00

Just wanted to remind everyone out there that I do accept commissions for customized collages. It makes for a wonderfully unique holiday gift, with a whimsical sense of sentiment. These are also particularly popular as memorials as well. How fortunate we are to have our loved ones.

These affordable commissions take anywhere from four to six weeks, dependent on how many projects I have going at the same time. The holidays are creeping upon us, if you're interested, or even just curious, please feel free to contact me.

Another Piece of Funktional Art On The Way...

2009-09-17T15:57:00.003-07:00

A sneak peak of another piece of funktional art soon to be coming your way. I'm in the process of sewing embellishments now.

The insignia seems low, but it needs to be low in order to not be blocked by the hood. Also, please keep in mind this hoodie sweater is a little too big for my model.

Current Work In Progress

2009-09-14T00:28:00.002-07:00

"Quiet! Or go back to your own room"

May as well paint my own reality.

Calling All Lower Mainland Artists!

2009-06-17T15:28:00.005-07:00

Calling All Artists!Help Keep the Kids at BC Children's Hospital Painting!
Annual Garbage Can Art Contest & Auction Sunday, September 27, 2009
Registration & Information: Kevin McKeown at kevin@publicityplus.ca or 778.228.2548

It's that time of year again .... time to start preparing for the annual Granville Island Ferries Garbage Can Art Contest & Auction, which this year takes place Sunday, September 27, on Granville Island (http://www.granvilleisland.com/).

As an artist who has either participated in the past or expressed interest in taking part, we are giving you first crack at registering for one of the spots in this year's competition.

Twenty-five artists will take part in the four hours of creative madness, turning plain metal garbage cans, provided by the event sponsor, Granville Island Ferries, into works of art. The artists provide their time, their art supplies and their great ideas! Granville Island Ferries supplies the garbage cans, tents, water, power and sheltered areas for spray-painting. To keep the artists and crowds in a festive mood, Celtic music is provided throughout the afternoon by the popular Vancouver band Blackthorn (www.blackthornband.com).Trudy Van Dop, publisher of the Van Dop Art Guide To British Columbia, (www.art-bc.cm) assembles a team of judges from the local arts community award first, second and third place (with modest cash prizes) and the finished collectibles are then auctioned by broadcast personality and travel writer Dave Abbott to raise funds to purchase supplies for the art therapy programs at British Columbia’s Children’s Hospital (http://www.bcchildrens.ca/).

To register for this year's fun, reply by return email providing your full name, your mailing address (including your postal code), your daytime and evening phone numbers (and a cell number if you have one) and your email address. Your registration will be confirmed by return email.For further details, see the event summary and FAQs below.To be removed from our annual email notification of this event, just reply requesting that you be deleted from the database.

For more information call Kevin Dale McKeown at 778.228.2548 or email kevin@publicityplus.ca.Kevin McKeownGranville Island Ferries Garbage Can Art Contest & Auction Sunday, September 27, 2009
PublicityPlus Event Marketing 778.228.2548 ~ kevin@publicityplus.ca

Today's Poetic Offering

2009-04-22T18:18:00.005-07:00

I found my Artist's bible today

Resources, plans, an artists' cachet

My marriage over, and horizons grey

Magical plans were all put away.

It seems I found myself today

Too long ago gone astray

When found, quite the emotional display

I had let my inner artist decay.

Was reacquainted with my dreams today

Refusing to ever again let them fray

And without any further delay

Picked up a paint brush and encouraged play.

Work In Progress

2009-04-20T14:11:00.001-07:00

Funktional Art

2009-04-20T13:53:00.006-07:00

"She FINALLY earned her wings!" Simply by converting a regular hoodie sweater with acrylic paints.

Art Journal Spread

2009-02-10T10:59:00.002-08:00

"Cavorting Crows"

2009-01-11T15:47:00.003-08:00

"Cavorting Crows"

acrylic canvas

26 x 34

New Greeting Card

2009-01-10T17:15:00.001-08:00

Today's Poetic Offering

2009-01-04T22:04:00.005-08:00

There is a poem here, a memory
Playing out before me
I savour it; intoxicating.

Submerged in the wading pool
Brown eyes sparkling and mischievious
Blue eyes seeking out the other
In aquatic hide and seek.

Arms wrap around my neck
The other clamours atop shoulders
Entangled limbs flailing and splashing
Shrieks of delight and mock terror
Chlorine strong in the air.

There is a poem here, a memory
If, once home, I can recapture it
Amongst domestic chaos; bliss.

As Requested...

2008-12-04T20:08:00.003-08:00

It has been requested I post photographs summarizing my body of work. Enjoy!

As Requested...

2008-12-04T20:03:00.005-08:00

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:57:00.003-08:00

"Quilted Village"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:57:00.001-08:00

"Remembering Marilyn"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:56:00.001-08:00

"Midnight Tulips"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:55:00.000-08:00

"Gnarled Tree"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:54:00.002-08:00

"Summer Of Crows"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:48:00.009-08:00

"Bearly Balanced"

Kermode Spirit Bear

Benefiting B.C. Easter Seals

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:47:00.000-08:00

"Stormy Skies"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:31:00.001-08:00

"Time Machine"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:30:00.000-08:00

"Waiting For Rowan"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:26:00.002-08:00

"Thailand Buddha Tree"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:25:00.000-08:00

"Sacred Archetypes Of Self"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:24:00.000-08:00

"Papa's Popping Poppies"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:21:00.003-08:00

"Grandma Tyrelle's Flowers"

sold!

As Requested....

2008-12-04T19:20:00.001-08:00

"Demons Are Not Forever"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:19:00.002-08:00

"Cherry Blossom"

As Requested...

2008-12-04T19:19:00.001-08:00

"Butterfly Storm"

As Requested....

2008-12-04T19:18:00.000-08:00

"Brainstorm"

As Requested....

2008-12-04T19:13:00.000-08:00

"Battle Of The Blankets"

SOLD!

Women's Resource Society Of The Fraser Valley

2008-11-27T18:46:00.004-08:00

The Women's Resource Society of the Fraser Valley is a non profit organization, whose concentrated efforts are dedicated to assisting women who are dealing with the impact of violence in their lives.

They must do considerable fundraising to support our programs and services to the community. One of their upcoming fundraising events is "Christmas at the Clarke" it will take place at the Clarke Theatre in Mission on December 17, 2008 and feature musical acts and several silent auction items.

Christmas At The Clarke, with Kenny Hess and friends, a tradition of great music, friends, and generous spirit. Tickets on sale now! 604-820-3961

The Butterfly Project

2008-11-19T19:15:00.008-08:00

The Butterfly:

Pavel Friedman, June 4, 1942

The last, the very last,So richly, brightly, dazzlingly yellow.Perhaps if the sun’s tears would sing against a white stone....

Such, such a yellowIs carried lightly ’way up high.It went away I’m sure because it wished to kiss the world good-bye.

For seven weeks I’ve lived in here,

Penned up inside this ghetto.

But I have found what I love here.

The dandelions call to me

And the white chestnut branches in the court.

Only I never saw another butterfly.

That butterfly was the last one.Butterflies don’t live in here, in the ghetto.

Pavel Friedman

Born in Prague on January 7, 1921.

Deported to the Terezin Concentration Camp on April 26, 1942.

Died in Aushchwitz on September 29, 1944.

*************************************************************************************

The Holocaust Museum in Houston has an ambitious goal to pay tribute to the 1.5 million children murdered during the holocaust: they are seeking to collect 1,500,000 handmade butterflies.

The butterflies will eventually comprise a breath-taking exhibition, currently scheduled for Spring 2012, for all to remember the little souls whom perished. As of Summer 2008, they have collected 400,000 handmade butterflies. Now it's our turn!

Please facilitate the "I Never Saw Another Butterfly" activity and create as many arts and crafts butterflies as possible. The project is open to all ages, individuals and groups alike.

For more information on participating, please visit: http://www.hmh.org/minisite/butterfly/index.html

Thank you for considering this worthwhile project!

Vancouver Visions: The Completed Collage

2008-10-26T14:58:00.002-07:00

You may not be able to notice the subtle differences in this, the final piece, as opposed to the last photo of it. That's fine. I see them. I know it's finished!

Again.... the piece is up for auction Nov 1 at Mission Community Services "Dream Auction" please see previous post for auction details.

Creative wishes!

Antigone Foundation: Dreams For Women

2008-10-26T14:46:00.004-07:00

My postcard has been received and auctioned by the Antigone Foundation. Check them all out:
http://antigonemagazine.wordpress.com/2008/10/26/dreams-for-women-local-artist-edition/

Please Lend Your Support

2008-09-22T19:28:00.003-07:00

Please sign the petition to raise British Columbia's minimum wage from $8/hr to $10/hr. You'll be helping my family, and so many more!

http://www.bcfed.com/petition/minimum_wage

21st Annual Granville Island Garbage Can Art Contest and Auction

2008-08-21T14:53:00.004-07:00

My favourite time of year is nearly here! No, I'm not referring to Halloween, although that too will slowly creep upon us. I'm referring to the annual Granville Island Garbage Can Art Contest and Auction. This is a *huge* passion of mine, and I've been participating for the last four years. Basically, 25 artists convert an aluminum garbage can, into a work of 'art', which is then auctioned off as a fundraiser for art supplies at the BC Children's Hospital. Those who know me know I will do anything I can to ever be of assistance to this phenomenal children's hospital. So every year, I lend my creativity, in the hopes of allowing a child the opportunity to express his/her creativity during some of the most stress in their little lives.

Here is a slideshow from last year's event.... hope you enjoy it.

Please come out and join us Sunday September 21st, the artists arrive at 9am, but the fun doesn't really start until around noon. Remember- if I'm making my way to Granville Island from Mission to participate, it will be worth your while also.

Hope to see you there!

Happier Daze

2008-08-15T11:31:00.005-07:00

It seems to me, that a year after separating, our family pictures are finally seeming happier. Perhaps the three of us have finally turned a corner. Phew!

You May Be Asking Yourself....

2008-08-05T20:11:00.006-07:00

You may well be asking "where on earth has this passionate chiquitta disappeared to?" Fear not, I'm here. But I've been on the move- literally.

A week and a half a go, my two young daughters and I packed up, and left the beautiful city of Vancouver, British Columbia. Permanently. Don't get me wrong- I loved living in Vancouver. I was born there, my family goes back three generations there. But I have had my fill of overcrowded schools under a serious ESL strain. Not to mention the hideous sky rocketing costs of living in the metropolis. In addition to the level of violence, especially in East Vancouver, where we resided for the past six months. I could not, in good conscience, bring my daughters up to the best of my ability, only to have them attend an east Vancouver highschool. I know, I know, they're still young.... but I want them to have the chance to develop "forever friends" long before they even have to think about highschool.

In essence, I made the move for the best interests of my daughters, and hope it will work out as beautifully as I hope and plan.

Where are we know, you may ask? Mission. 90 minutes (highway driving) from Vancouver. My girls' paternal grandparents live out here, and I want my daughters to have the experience of a deep loving relationship with grandparents.

Needless to say, there has not been much time for art. Having said that though, I've managed to squeeze a minute here or there for a craft or two, namely, this year's Motherhood Mask.

You may or may not be familiar with my ongoing project. Each year, since having become a mother for the first time in 2001, I have commemorated the year of said motherhood with a papier mache mask creation, using symbolism and colour to summarize that year's experience with my girls. With the move and all, I felt it important that become the focus of this year's experience. Hence, the photo of the individual mask (with the house) is the mask for 2008. The opposite photograph, is a display of the masks in their new home. Most excited, as they've never been up as a collection before.

As for upcoming events.... I'm excited to be participating, again, in the 21st Annual Granville Island Garbage Can Art Contest & Auction. A brilliant fundraiser for BC Children's Hospital art therapy program. Come visit 25 Lower Mainland artists at Granville Island Sunday September 21. As always, musical appearance by Blackthorne.

An Overdue Poetic Offering

2008-05-10T11:52:00.004-07:00

Your words

Happy tokens

Lift my day

Like a brilliant kite

Riding a summer wind.

Innocent hope

Anchors the kit string

As if a child's hand

Relishing in the wonder of the moment.

A mysterious wind

Pulls the string taut

Before snapping

Inexplicably.

Your words

Little happy tokens

Swirl over the horizon, scattering

And the magic of the moment

Passes.

Today's Poetic Offering

2008-03-20T16:09:00.008-07:00

Public Swim Hour:

I am comfortable here

This changing room full of women

in various states of undress

Young, old, fat, thin

Stretchmarks, lost elasticity

And everything in between.

An adolescent special needs girl

strides off towards the bathroom. Topless.

Small pert developing breasts

Unabashedly exposed

"Put your shoes on!!"

Her Mother bellows behind her.

Native tongues clucking above falling shower water

Unshaven legs and unkempt hair

Naked flesh void of sensuality or innuendo.

I am comfortable here

Enveloped by a secret female tribe

Anonymous amongst my nameless clan.

KG 03/20/08

What Is An Altered Book?

2008-03-14T15:42:00.008-07:00

An altered book is a previously used book that has been spared from the landfill by being converted into a piece of art all of its own. It can be a paperback, or a board book like the example shown.

Miniature Collaged Cards

2008-03-10T09:42:00.002-07:00

A sample of some of the work made available through Outsider Art In A Box.