Gratitude
My dad, Carl Hanna Klaus, died two and a half weeks ago. More than anyone else, dad influenced my decision to become an artist. As a writer and professor, he had a clear sense of style in all aspects of his life: in his person, his home, his writing and especially his garden. As a child, I observed the care and passion with which he infused each activity.
I spoke with Dad shortly before his death. I thanked him for everything he'd taught me. He told me that although I couldn't be with him, that he pictured me in my studio, working away and that made him happy. I can't imagine a better way to say goodbye.
A page from the sketchbook: "pull out the stops with red."
When the Going Gets Tough
As a child, I loved the sound of the phrase "when the going gets tough, the tough get going." My recent experience has taught me the true meaning of the phrase. Faced with the twin losses of my mom and dad a month apart, I realized I needed a scaffolding, something that could literally help me "get going." It was fortuitous that Cheryl Taves, an artist and art coach, came up with the 30 day sketchbook challenge at the moment I needed it.
There are many art challenges out there. What makes this one different is the time and love Cheryl put into creating an entire workshop including everything from preparation and suggested materials to the anatomy of an entry, prompts, reflections and inspiring images.
My stated goal was to create a sketchbook practice that would act as a pipeline to my formal work. There was however, a hidden agenda. I needed a safe space where I could come every day, bringing my loss. I could dive into the sketchbook knowing that it would provide the stability, love and compassion that I needed. If you're going through a tough time as an artist or maker, check out her workshop. An inexpensive investment, it is well worth your time.
A sampling of pages from the sketchbook