Writing - Reading - Drawing

I was pleased to finally see this magazine piece in print from High 5. Somehow I thought it was already out about a year ago... so I guess I'm out of touch with time.

Drawing: a delightful story about a mouse and a squirrel. Now that's my kind of crowd scene.

Listening: to my iPod whilst out biking, walking and jogging

Reading: a totally captivating book, 'The Private Lives of the Impressionists' by Sue Roe. It's a fabulous history and total eye opener. Somehow I never realized that the impressionists were continually starving artists for most of their careers. This book is marvelous in detailing every incident of their struggle as artists. Amazing incidents like the time Renoir was about to be shot by a firing squad during the commune uprising after the prussian war in Paris. He was saved because he was recognized by one of the revolutionary leaders who had rescued him years earlier in the woods. Renoir had once lent this revolutionary activist a painter's smock and easel so he would avoid capture. It was sheer coincidence that Renoir was recognized and given a hero's welcome instead of the firing squad.

This book is an amazing true story of artistic struggle in the face of grinding poverty. I liked how the impressionists so often escaped to the woods and nature to find solace... as all good artists should.

Writing: a delightful new picturebook dummy. Just my cup of tea.