THREE THINGS Issue 09

THING ONE

I have a keen interest (trying not to say obsession) with a new-to-me form of art - Gelli Plate printing! There is much to explore and learn but so far what I’ve found to be the easiest and most fun is to make leaf prints.  I’ve tried a few with students who also had a blast. These photos show a simple step by step process that anyone can do. Really!  Please, please let me know if you'd like more detailed info or instructions.
 
On September 16th, I’ll be part of a “Go Play Outside” event in my city where I'll be leading participants in collecting autumn leaves, painting, and gelli printing to our hearts content.

                                                                     

If you're around, feel free to drop by the Ware Street entrance of Mill Lake Park, Abbotsford, BC, between 12 noon and 4 pm.

                              

THING TWO

  One day this summer I listened to author Michael Finkel being interviewed on the podcast “Art Curious”.  He told of a crazy, stranger than fiction, true story of a young art thief in Europe.  Intrigued, I checked the book out of my local library and really enjoyed this unbelievable tale.

Stephane Breitwieser, with the help of his girlfriend as lookout, swiped art from over 200 museums and galleries in Europe between the late 1990’s and the early 2000’s.  He stole in broad daylight without being lowered from skylights or jumping lasers!  Breitwieser claimed he didn’t steal for money but desired to possess the art because of his great love of it’s beauty.  It was this idea that kept him from considering himself a thief.  He studied the art and the artist in great depth and saw himself as a "borrower" (although he hadn’t yet determined when he would return it!). He kept all of the art in the attic apartment of his mother's house.

His very “un-thief-like” techniques worked well for many years; talking up ticket agents and guards, having coffee in the museum café while security scattered and always walking, not running to his car were a few of Breitwieser’s strategies.

If you fancy a true crime story and you like art, this might be the next fun read you’re looking for.
      

 
THING THREE


Goldenrod and asters,
All your hands can hold,
September wears a party dress
Of lavender and gold.

 
Children’s song – author unknown
 


As a thank you for reading my arty notes, I have a small September gift for you to enjoy. If interested, please reply to this email and I will send you this autumn wreath print painted by yours truly.

                           
 
As always, I am artfully yours,
Glenna