Hard to believe it’s January already — or that it’s January still??  If December was a whirlwind, January has been like driving through a tornado blindfolded. So far this month I’ve had one big project run long, another get delayed, lost a promising corporate order (decided they wanted something more “plexiglass-ish”), and watched the Young One get reconstructive knee surgery. I may as well have thrown my planner into a blender. I’ve been trying to channel my inner meditative side, but I’m not sure I really have one. After a week of the melodrama that is a teenager on vicodin, it probably would have needed a stiff drink anyway.

It hasn’t been bad. In fact much of it has been lovely, albeit unpredictable. I’m quite pleased that the world map is finished, and is downstairs drying between coats of stain. It’s a good feeling to get through a project of that scope – and in a medium I hadn’t worked in previously – and have it come out as planned. I have to admit I’ll miss it when it’s gone. The glossy texture of the wood as it gets burnished, the thin wisp of smoke trailing from the surface, the earthy smell that’s somewhere between a campfire and burnt popcorn. I’ve secretly resolved to use the technique again somehow somewhere, although I’m not entirely sure what form it will take. Maybe copper maps floating on a wood burned background, maybe a coffee table top, maybe cut metal landscapes that continue subtly in wood… I’d love to hear suggestions. It’s too enticing to let go.

This week was also dedicated to blocking out a show season for 2011, which is very exciting! This will be a year of big shows, and lots of them, including several out of state. If all goes as planned, I’ll be booked roughly every three weeks from May til December.  It’s a bit scary, as the larger shows can be quite expensive… and when you pay up front and add them all together, well, we’re nearing that meditative/ stiff drink thing again.

I also took some time this week to add lots of new items to my shop, including several state & city maps and new science images:

I’m quite happy with the way both the designs and the photos are turning out, and even more happy to have sold several within the first few days of being listed.  Any particular places I should add?  I will have Illinois, South Carolina, & Detroit up by the end of the week, and hope to start on Maine and Traverse City.  I’m hoping to keep a pretty good variety available, in addition to the custom listings.

Other than that, I’m looking forward to a little back to normal!  Have a lovely week, hug your loved ones, and stay safe out there ~

………………………..Chris