tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40641187347267862252024-03-05T05:17:23.617-05:00 Catherine's stories AN ARTIST'S BIRTHRIGHTCatherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-47192471619949713182019-06-26T09:46:00.000-04:002019-06-26T09:46:30.655-04:00Summer Sunsets on Canvas<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Summer Sunsets on Canvas<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">With Gelli Arts © Printing Plates</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">and </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Deco Arts Americana Premium Paints</span></div>
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I am excited to be asked to collaborate with Deco Arts and
Gelli Arts to create this project. I chose to create summer sunsets on canvas crossbody
purses and a canvas board for framing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Supplies I used are the 5” x 7” and 8” x 10” Gelli Arts
plate and the Deco Arts Americana Premium Paints.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Americana series of paints are very
creamy and stay open (slow drying) so I can free hand paint them on the gel
plates and not have to hurry to pull the print.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also used Deco Arts Fabric Medium to help
bond the paint to the fabric.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mixed a
few drops into each spot of color on my pallet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I used gesso mixed with some of the fabric medium to pre coat some of
the purses. On the ones that were not pre coated I felt the paint soaked into
the fabric too much and was a bit dull. I liked them all either way, just a bit
of a different look.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Supplies list:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">5" x 7" Gelli plate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">8" x 10" Gelli plate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jane Davenport Mermaid scale gel
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Deco Arts Americana Premium Paints<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Deco Arts Fabric Painting medium<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Deco Arts Dazzling Metalics<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Small canvas cross body purses <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8" x 10 Canvas board with mat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1318" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BwpYh45vSKc/XQZ-oh_2d1I/AAAAAAABVE8/6FsUwKFmfUUdIfwmbRxCjiwh6dIF3vg4QCLcBGAs/s320/decoart%2Bsunset%2Bcrossbody2sides.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canvas crossbody purse - front and back</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64mLU74G3VM/XQZ-paETYRI/AAAAAAABVFE/kfIH3hmbjXE0z7Os_fWFAhTYrwI8w_4_wCLcBGAs/s1600/black%2Bcrossbody%2Bcloseup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1276" data-original-width="1600" height="255" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64mLU74G3VM/XQZ-paETYRI/AAAAAAABVFE/kfIH3hmbjXE0z7Os_fWFAhTYrwI8w_4_wCLcBGAs/s320/black%2Bcrossbody%2Bcloseup.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of sunset on purse</td></tr>
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Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-24868543250684739332019-04-28T21:36:00.000-04:002019-05-02T13:41:41.062-04:00Stamping with Dare 2b Artzy© stamps and Gelli Arts© printing plate<br />
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Stamping with Dare 2b Artzy stamps and Gelli Arts 8” round
gel plate<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have been asked to make a video for a collaboration between
Dare 2b Artzy© stamps and Gelli Arts© printing plates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I choose the Totally Tracy line of stamps and
the 8” Gelli Arts plate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like working
with parchment papers for my prints as in this case it gave the print a Batik
look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used the Deco Arts Americana
Premium Acrylic paints and mediums.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy
the video!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-64997851971201130782019-02-22T12:08:00.001-05:002019-02-22T12:08:56.830-05:00Collage with Gelli Arts® by Catherine Tonning-Popowich<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #d52a33; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://gelliarts.blogspot.com/2019/01/collage-with-gelli-arts-by-catherine.html" style="color: #d52a33; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; text-decoration-line: none;">Collage with Gelli Arts® by Catherine Tonning-Popowich</a></h3>
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If you are like me and you have a few extra prints that you made with your Gelli Arts® printing plate then this blog post is for you! I have accumulated hundreds of prints from playing with my gel plates and they are starting to take over my studio! I decided to try my hand at making collages from some of them.</div>
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I discovered a technique from artist Kathleen Mooney with whom I took some workshops with this past summer. This technique involves coating both sides of the prints with matte medium to virtually create skins. I used Liquitex but any brand will do.</div>
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You will need to use a clear trash bag to paint on (clear trash bags for glass recycling). You can also use heavy 4 mil plastic from Home Depot that is found in the paint department. It comes on a roll. You are basically making an acrylic skin. When the paper is thoroughly dry you just peal it off the plastic. Look at the edge of the second image below and you can see the skin edge.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXt5EeSjquNEDa50WEYHZ67mxSwV37qPc3r3ft7xXxN54m8cOTk2aTqfn62dTWM3_Ko6iwdIbnA-tJ7h6cK3oiEayuJcvck2q5qCTF9d3vXznT3Pw_fdEYYntNKLgLqeY-GsoKCGGdMo/s1600/image2.jpg" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXt5EeSjquNEDa50WEYHZ67mxSwV37qPc3r3ft7xXxN54m8cOTk2aTqfn62dTWM3_Ko6iwdIbnA-tJ7h6cK3oiEayuJcvck2q5qCTF9d3vXznT3Pw_fdEYYntNKLgLqeY-GsoKCGGdMo/s400/image2.jpg" style="background: transparent; border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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Using a sponge brush, paint the matte medium on the plastic bag and then put your print on top of it. Brush the print into the medium while pouring more on top of the print and brushing it to cover the entire paper. You can fit a couple prints on the plastic bag and then move it to a safe place to dry for a few hours.</div>
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I spent a day just coating the prints I wanted to use for collages. Then the prints are dry and ready to go when inspiration strikes. I most often use my prints that are made on deli or parchment paper. This technique lends a bit of translucency to the prints and makes great collage material.</div>
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Next, I coat my collage surface with the gel matte medium and leave it to dry. With this technique you can collage on mat board, wood panels, canvas board, or stretched canvas. I choose to paint my surface with black gesso before coating it. I like the dark background behind the collage. </div>
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Now that your surfaces and papers are dry you can start to create the collage. I chose to use the beautiful blue papers I made. What better way to use them but in a sunset over a water scene. I made a variety of them using various surfaces. My favorite is cradled wood art panels.</div>
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I trace the shape of my board on a piece of parchment paper and move the board aside. I will then arrange the pieces to be collaged on the parchment within this area. Each piece should be overlapped a bit so they will adhere to each other when heat is applied. When I have all the pieces in a pattern that I like, I iron them together between 2 sheets of parchment. They do not adhere to the parchment paper. This leaves me with a collage skin to place on the prepared surface.</div>
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Set the iron on medium or polyester and press over the top of the parchment paper. It doesn’t take long and then lift off the top parchment layer and peel up the fused piece. Now you can lay this on top of your surface of choice and place a sheet of parchment on top and iron it onto the surface. Check to make sure it has adhered. If not, iron it a few more seconds. When set, trim the edges with scissors or X-ACTO knife being careful not to pull it off the board or panel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYj-bXRsCnqHJZHY9Jsgyt4dg4dOHovqjQqvAiwIxAxMmCcEC5cNlqYs-uxN-tg4y-f3A6nlUJRckXfx-f_62jyKf-P_nsP2lC8zhvooXB2p-Pf8RDytn-YAusjM9ew0lITS9NYLOMrFM/s1600/image6.jpg" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYj-bXRsCnqHJZHY9Jsgyt4dg4dOHovqjQqvAiwIxAxMmCcEC5cNlqYs-uxN-tg4y-f3A6nlUJRckXfx-f_62jyKf-P_nsP2lC8zhvooXB2p-Pf8RDytn-YAusjM9ew0lITS9NYLOMrFM/s400/image6.jpg" style="background: transparent; border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Hm-CV30fGy03Hfl5H8az_I4vqzEPUcYsPxqcmOttQxT5cL3ig7mn3LRdr7tUxJgP9pCKFCkD5Va-zrhSwFBzDdgY-mcvDxhmmrtEit4WATkSMwHBAcMs6GI1-vSLCWT46YXZkyKCBC8/s1600/image12.jpg" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Hm-CV30fGy03Hfl5H8az_I4vqzEPUcYsPxqcmOttQxT5cL3ig7mn3LRdr7tUxJgP9pCKFCkD5Va-zrhSwFBzDdgY-mcvDxhmmrtEit4WATkSMwHBAcMs6GI1-vSLCWT46YXZkyKCBC8/s400/image12.jpg" style="background: transparent; border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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Look at your design and decide if you want to add more pieces. I wanted the sunset to stand out more so I added some pieces to make the reflections in the water and to shape up the sun more. What’s nice about this process is you can add more pieces on top of the fused piece as long as they all have been coated with the matte medium. When you are satisfied place the sheet of parchment on top again and give it a quick press with the iron.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguqkzFVwUZTKTEyNF3PY5NrZeR2KI0JXiDB66OxQgxor2a6gXXmE52lGZR_WRNH5Zu8OBUIDie5t_n8yQScciYdKLAjfi1sylDqlTF1_211BMYWBieRmlYZX8-tbBtR4YD6hnkqvEdKLs/s1600/image16.jpg" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguqkzFVwUZTKTEyNF3PY5NrZeR2KI0JXiDB66OxQgxor2a6gXXmE52lGZR_WRNH5Zu8OBUIDie5t_n8yQScciYdKLAjfi1sylDqlTF1_211BMYWBieRmlYZX8-tbBtR4YD6hnkqvEdKLs/s400/image16.jpg" style="background: transparent; border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">When you are completely satisfied with your piece you will now apply more matte medium over the top to seal the entire piece and leave to dry for a few hours. Once mine was dry, I did some metallic pen and ink work on top. You can use gel pens if you like but I prefer my dip pens and gold ink. Just a few lines -- don’t over do it as it can take away from the collage technique.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioegLCEsgv9brvJYGrbSWjifg_0wwCXpoKdJ53kGgzTfB9tASIMxSOE7_PZIml8QWWz7rbwo6QyIWJO0DFLIjGQPUPHunIt7EdEdCuSHV_ALz-ZtSFRukOlp3IpH-8TIicC_YKmNk_T70/s1600/image18.jpg" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioegLCEsgv9brvJYGrbSWjifg_0wwCXpoKdJ53kGgzTfB9tASIMxSOE7_PZIml8QWWz7rbwo6QyIWJO0DFLIjGQPUPHunIt7EdEdCuSHV_ALz-ZtSFRukOlp3IpH-8TIicC_YKmNk_T70/s400/image18.jpg" style="background: transparent; border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I would like to share a couple storage ideas for your gel prints. It is easier to find what you are looking for if they are out in the open instead of filed away so I save those plastic pant hangers that most of us throw away. I sort my large papers by color and clip them onto the hanger and hang them over the door or from my wire shelf. For the smaller pieces I again sort them by color and put them into a blank journal or spiral notebook. You can put an elastic band around the book to keep them from falling out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1hpDYmYpDXTEctDX-VQswd_9uLbh9QrA1BNaQY9MSp9ff8rrqV6mcwRwstJXuJBDuFKfqf-HTqz7pJHK5Vg2x4WEm9XmpgJS26Z1AL9ffPslS6f45wglQ-vemYfUzBYpFuOSq2aKKWs/s1600/imagefinal.jpg" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1hpDYmYpDXTEctDX-VQswd_9uLbh9QrA1BNaQY9MSp9ff8rrqV6mcwRwstJXuJBDuFKfqf-HTqz7pJHK5Vg2x4WEm9XmpgJS26Z1AL9ffPslS6f45wglQ-vemYfUzBYpFuOSq2aKKWs/s400/imagefinal.jpg" style="background: transparent; border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Thanks for stopping by!</span></div>
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Share your collages with us by tagging us on social media!</div>
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Catherine</div>
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Materials:</div>
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Finished gel prints on parchment, deli, or tracing paper</div>
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Clear recycling trash bags</div>
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Matte medium</div>
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Gel matte medium</div>
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Sponge brush</div>
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Canvas panel or wood panel</div>
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Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-7794454688271796152018-12-05T11:49:00.001-05:002018-12-05T11:56:26.881-05:00Catherine Tonning-Popowich: Careers for Consideration, ‘Heart of the Season’<br />
I had the honor to be interviewed for the Lansing Area Women's Lifestyle magazine this month. You can read the article here:<br />
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<a href="https://cawlm.com/columns/careers-for-consideration/catherine-tonning-popowich-careers-for-consideration-heart-of-the-season/">Catherine Tonning-Popowich: Careers for Consideration, ‘Heart of the Season’</a><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4o1uSZFmuvo/XAgCzpi1qVI/AAAAAAABOIs/_jU7VhsJPC8YA0cfoHY7wdB5gUQRwOteQCLcBGAs/s1600/CareersForConsideration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="900" height="283" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4o1uSZFmuvo/XAgCzpi1qVI/AAAAAAABOIs/_jU7VhsJPC8YA0cfoHY7wdB5gUQRwOteQCLcBGAs/s640/CareersForConsideration.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-66189726714470264322018-09-27T09:00:00.000-04:002018-11-08T07:54:24.010-05:00Birch Trees using embossing folder on Gelli Arts® Printing Plate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Birch Tree Monoprints</span></h3>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QC9q7kkLtJI/W6UY9jZFSpI/AAAAAAABM9o/aqCYkhsNMXMA2OpPZXHT6p8A-QUQzMmkgCLcBGAs/s1600/2018-09-21_12.13.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QC9q7kkLtJI/W6UY9jZFSpI/AAAAAAABM9o/aqCYkhsNMXMA2OpPZXHT6p8A-QUQzMmkgCLcBGAs/s320/2018-09-21_12.13.38.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've always loved
Birch trees and I am obsessed with drawing and painting </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">them! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> wanted a project that was
quick and not too complicated involving these trees. I think I have every
stamp, die and embossing plate of various trees so I decided to try printing
with an embossing plate. Just so happens
I had a plate that was 6” x 6” to match the size of one of my gel plates. I usually lay out 2 or more <a href="https://www.gelliarts.com/">Gelli Arts® printing plates</a> when I work on a project so I can get a couple prints at the same time. Don't mind the difference in color, one plate has been used a lot more and seems to have taken on a color. This does not affect the prints.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1) Using Sequin Black Metallic
paint by Plaid I loaded my brayer and rolled the paint onto the embossing plate. I used the side that had the trees raised
out. The brayer just catches the trees when
you roll over them. I then turn the embossing plate over and press it into the gel plate. I used a clean brayer and rolled on
the back of the embossing plate to push the paint onto the gel plate. Lift it
off and the trees are on the gel plate. Let this dry about 10 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2) When this is dry pick a color for the background layer. I used Plaid Color Shift Orange and Yellow for the orange print. These paints are very translucent and sheer so choose your paper color accordingly. I used brown deli paper (I order from Amazon) for the orange one and blue cardstock for the others. As soon as you apply the colors put your paper down and pull the print. Depending on how dry the black on the trees are you might have to leave the paper on for a minute or two and burnish the backside with your hand or an old credit card. Pull up a corner to make sure everything is coming up on the paper before pulling the print completely.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LBHxL5tjygM/W6UcCKEIrAI/AAAAAAABM-M/UMKuhvYoA8EW5JJUenf4OlkYEOo1GGM4ACEwYBhgL/s1600/2018-09-21_12.22.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LBHxL5tjygM/W6UcCKEIrAI/AAAAAAABM-M/UMKuhvYoA8EW5JJUenf4OlkYEOo1GGM4ACEwYBhgL/s320/2018-09-21_12.22.18.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Fall Birch Print using Embossing Plate</b></h3>
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Fall Birch Monoprint in Aqua</div>
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<br />Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-18431651967985624742018-09-18T09:00:00.000-04:002018-09-18T09:40:00.814-04:00 Fallen Leaves Layered Gel Print<br />
FALLEN LEAVES <br />
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By Catherine Tonning-Popowich <br />
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8” x 10” Gelli Arts plate, Plaid Metallic and Gelli Arts Paints <br />
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Technique: Layering with Plaid FolkArt Metallic paints and Gelli Arts Paints on cardstock<br />
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I am so excited to create my first blog as a member of the Gelli Arts® Artist team! Having been asked to join the team is an honor, I love all of their products! <br />
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"My work is informed and influenced by nature. Whether working in the colors of autumn, in the flowers of spring, or in the radiance of a sunset or sunrise, I enjoy creating visually stimulating art." <br />
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My monoprints, mixed media, acrylic abstractions and realistic paintings all focus on nature whether it be the colors, textures or spirit and my obsession with it. <br />
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My prints are one-of-a-kind using mono printing with Gelli Arts® plates. I start with an idea or feeling which, I express in textures and colors using natural and manmade found objects. I see an item's potential by how it might appear after color and pressure have been applied to the plate, that is what makes the mono print process so exciting to me. Each print is unique and the result of my experience with color, texture and form. <br />
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Having said all that, I will tell you about this Falling Leaves print. I took a photo of some leaves floating at the bottom of a waterfall in Upper Michigan last fall. I loved how they looked like jewels in the water. I knew that this print needed to be done in layers.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e4IopbmhY7o/W4tjCXhhYmI/AAAAAAABKTA/IDIlYR__MeIkOcIZCzZTiPgnD7CQZ791ACLcBGAs/s1600/final%2Bimg%2B%252310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1214" data-original-width="1600" height="242" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e4IopbmhY7o/W4tjCXhhYmI/AAAAAAABKTA/IDIlYR__MeIkOcIZCzZTiPgnD7CQZ791ACLcBGAs/s320/final%2Bimg%2B%252310.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 1 – Place photo under the 8 x 10 plate. I started with the leaves first painting them in with Plaid FolkArt Metallic paint. I didn’t paint all the leaves exactly as they were in the photo but most of them. I actually added some around the edges. Try to get a variety of colors, some orange, some greenish yellow, copper etc. I used a rubber tipped tool to wipe out the veins in the leaves while the paint was still wet. Let this layer dry completely.<br />
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Step 2 – Now that the first layer is dry paint another layer on the leaves using Gelli Arts opaque paints mixed with the Folkart Metallics. This allows the leaves to be a little opaquer but still shimmer. I paint the leaves in a direction from the outside edge in toward the center vein so that the leaves have a texture of veins. Let dry.<br />
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Step 3 – When you are satisfied with the leaves (you can pick up the plate and peek at the other side to see what they look like on the front) start to sponge on the blue colors for the water. I used Folk Art Multi surface Aqua, Metallic Champagne, Metallic Topaz, Metallic Blue Sapphire and Gelli Arts Cosmic Blue for the darkest shade. I used a sea sponge but any textured sponge would work. Sponge over the entire plate varying the colors from light to dark. Again let this layer dry.<br />
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Step 4 – Now using the Metallic Blue Sapphire blended with the Cosmic blue load up your brayer with paint and roll over the entire plate. Clean off the brayer on paper and run it over the plate again. You need a thin layer of paint over the plate or all you will pick up is the blue layer. I make sure I have a thin wet layer over the plate and the edges. This step reacts with the first layers and makes them moist again so you can lift them onto the paper.<br />
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Step 5 – Using a dark blue color cardstock place the paper over the plate and rub with the palm of your hand. I use an old credit card or hotel room key card and holding it at an angle I burnish the back of the paper. I use some pressure with the card to get the paint to adhere to the paper. Check the print by lifting a corner to see if the paint is sticking. If it isn’t all lifting put the corner down and continue to burnish till all the paint adheres to the paper.<br />
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If you are happy with your print let it dry and your done. If you want a little more detail I went over some of the veins and edges of the leaves with gel pens to sharpen the details.<br />
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<br />Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-83625407146676086702018-05-02T15:42:00.000-04:002018-05-02T15:42:39.698-04:00MY NEW ART-VENTURE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palette knife (plastic knife) painting on gel plate and then pulled on black cardstock</td></tr>
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<br />I have always had a love for printmaking but I couldn’t afford the cost or the space for a press for printing but two years ago I discovered the Gelli Arts® Company and I have been hooked! With the gel plates you don’t need a press so after many years of not printing I have rediscovered the joy of printing again and I even teach numerous classes on gel printing throughout the year. I am so excited to share with you a new art venture I am embarking on; I have been asked by the Gelli Arts® Company to be a brand ambassador for their product line of gel printing plates!<br /><br />This year my program Art Has No Barriers is in its second phase at the <a href="http://lansingartgallery.org/art-has-no-barriers/">Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center</a>. Through this I have taught the gel printing process to those with and without disabilities. The gel plates are a great hands-on art project and it has been very well received for the positive impact it has been having on those who participate in the program and in the community.<br /><br />As a Brand Ambassador for Gelli Arts® I will be working with a team of artists from around the world to bring exciting and creative projects to you all. To make sure you have an opportunity to create alongside me, the company will is offering a 10% discount of Gelli Arts® products if you order with my code: CatherineTP @ <a href="https://www.gelliarts.com/">https://www.gelliarts.com</a>.<div>
<br />I am thrilled to start this new chapter in my art career and to bring you along on this journey! I will share some photos of some of the things I have printed and you can see some things my students have printed with gel plates <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ART-has-NO-Barriers-153309162008351/">here</a> at my Art Has No Barriers facebook page. I hope you will share what you create with me, too! Please "Like" my fb page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/C.L.Tonning.Artist">C.L.Tonning.Artist</a> to keep up with my latest creations. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
The possibilities ahead of us are endless!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ink & Acrylic on Parchment Paper</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jewelry made from Gel Prints</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Printing on gel plate with feathers on handmade paper</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pocket journals made by gel printing on manilla envelopes</td></tr>
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Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-4448360615095868382017-03-06T23:58:00.000-05:002017-03-06T23:58:08.943-05:00ART HAS NO BARRIERS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been away from blogging for awhile while I tried to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up, lol. I have done a lot of soul searching about my art and my teaching abilities. I love sharing my talent with others and helping them discover their inner artist. One day the light bulb went on in my brain and I decided to write a grant proposal to teach art to students with disabilities. I applied for the "Artist in the Community" grant through the <a href="http://www.lansingarts.org/Home.aspx" target="_blank">Art Council of Greater Lansing</a>. In October I was awarded the grant to help students with disabilities to find their voice through art. This project is very close to my heart! If you have read my previous posts you know I had a grandson with severe disabilities that died in 2013 at the age of 6 1/2. </div>
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I have a community partner in the<a href="http://lansingartgallery.org/" target="_blank"> Lansing Art Gallery</a> downtown Lansing, MI. I will hold 4 classes there this spring to kick off the program. Thanks to the grant and supporters these classes with be offered free of charge. <a href="http://www.gelliarts.com/" target="_blank">Gelli Arts</a>,<a href="http://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/" target="_blank"> Stencil Girl</a> stencils and <a href="http://decoart.com/" target="_blank">Deco Arts</a> have generously given me enough supplies for all of the classes. Because of this act of generosity the students will be able to take some products home to continue experimenting with what they learned with me.</div>
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In the classes we will be making mono prints using Gelli Arts printing plates. No previous experience is necessary and everyone I have taught this technique to has enjoyed it.</div>
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<br />Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-64944508527793122142014-12-08T15:03:00.000-05:002014-12-08T15:03:51.271-05:00Getting back to blogging about Art<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />It's been awhile since I have written. I have been keeping busy painting, honing my craft and showing my art. By the time I sit down to write I am at a loss for words, lol. Seriously I find it more difficult to write out my thoughts than to blurt them out. Hopefully for 2015 I can keep up on a regular basis. Did I just make a New Years resolution? Well you heard it here first!<br /><br />I was recently interviewed for a featured artist piece on <a href="http://blog.willowwolfe.ca/2014/12/08/meet-artist-catherine-tonning-popowich/" target="_blank">Inspired by Willow Wolfe</a> and sponsored by Princeton Brush Co. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">so I thought I would share it here:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b>Acrylics on Claybord<br /><br /><b>Favorite Tools?</b><br /><br />My Favorite tool is whatever will give me the texture I want, crumbled up paper for bark texture, Hawthorne thorn for scratching in fur, makeup sponge for defusing background atmosphere and of course my favorite brushes. I have recently discovered the Series 6250—Umbria Synthetic brushes and I am loving them for acrylic painting. I have tried many types of brushes and I find that acrylics are tough on brushes but the Princeton Umbria brushes seem to hold up the best.<br /><br /><b>What would you call your style?</b><br /><br />My style is naturalism. I have always looked toward nature as inspiration for my work. As an artist, I have found that when I am portraying the rich texture of a wolf’s coat or the glistening reflection in a bird’s eye, I feel at peace. As a teacher, it gives me immense pleasure to be able to guide my students so that they can emerge as artists and find their own inner solace as well.<br /><br /><b>What are you currently working on?</b><br /><br />I am currently working on a series of trees through the seasons. I enjoy the contrast of the White Birch against the deep blue sky in fall and I like to paint the Lonely Cypress tree against the ocean blue.<br /><br /><b>What is a favorite piece of art you created and why? </b><br /><br />I did a series called "Life in the Serengeti" for and exhibition last year. <br /><br />This African Bush Baby is one of my favorites. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> This baby elephant was also one of the series.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also enjoy painting flowers and birds:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These paintings are all done in acrylics on Ampersand Claybord.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><br /><b>Who are your art heroes? </b><br /><br />Oh the list is long but I will try to list my top 5 art heros: da Vinci because of his sketches, inventive mind and his vast body of work. Van Gogh for his color and moods that show thru in his artwork. O'Keefe for her compositions, colors and her representational work. Wyeth because of his illustrative qualities, mastery of light and shadow. Monet because of his ability to capture the ever changing light and the passing of seasons. <br /><b><br />What qualities make your art distinctively you? </b><br /><br />My experience and education in both Commercial Art and Fine Arts resonates in my style and in my ability to capture the fine details that make many of my pieces seem more like photographs than paintings. I am well-versed in painting botanicals and other organic forms, my recent work with wildlife is what has been getting the most exposure. <br /><br /><b>Where do you create? </b><br /><br />I have a studio just outside my back door. It is a remodeled garage and I love it! I have lots of work surface and storage. When I am done working for the day I just turn off the lights and lock the door and I don't have to worry about messing up the house!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>When do you create?</b><br /><br />I try to keep to a schedule of working in my studio from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm at least 4 days a week. I like the solitude during the day when everyone is off to work and I don't have as many interruptions or distractions. <br /><br /><b>Do you sketch or keep an idea journal? </b><br /><br />I love sketching and most paintings start with a pencil sketch. Sometimes the sketch even becomes a finished pencil for framing. I keep all my sketches in a drawer unless I frame it. I have lots of journals with a few sketches in them but I am more prone to get a big sheet of drawing paper and go for a finished drawing. I do always travel with my sketch book just in case inspiration strikes.<br /><br /><b>What do you do when you hit a creative block?</b><br /><br />When I run into a creative block I try to switch gears and start working on making jewelry (my other passion) or cleaning my studio, lol I will place the piece on which I am having a road block up on a shelf either in the studio or in the house and try to ignore it for awhile only glancing at it from time to time. When my mind is ready to take it on again I will put it back on the drawing board and start experimenting with different color schemes, if that was the problem (which usually is) or go back to the drawing reference in case it is about composition. Walking away from it is a safe way for me not to muck it up.<br /><br /><b>Do you have any special techniques you would like to share? </b><br /><br />Techniques that I like are painting trees with a ripped up piece of computer paper crumpled up tightly and dab it into a little paint and stamp it onto the branch to simulate bark. Starting with the darker colors and then progress up to the lighter colors for the highlights.<br /><br /><b>Do you teach? What and why? </b><br /><br />I teach acrylic painting in my studio here in Michigan and I also travel to different locations. I teach botanicals or birds mostly. As a teacher, it gives me immense pleasure to be able to guide my students so that they can emerge as artists and find their own inspiration. I have been teaching on location at our local Community Mental Health with disabled adults. This has been very rewarding for me and they are so appreciative. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><b>What do you listen to when you create?</b><br /><br />I go to http://8tracks.com and find playlist without words mostly but then I also have a few marked favorite that are 70's music and also the Beatles. I don't like to be sidetracked by the lyrics as I am easily distracted. I also enjoy cello music and classical. When I find a song I like I save it to my playlist called "Background Music" then I can just play that list without searching for other songs. Other times I just enjoy the sounds of nature outside my studio and don't turn on any music.<br /><br /><b>What other things do you like to do creatively? </b><br /><br />I enjoy cooking and entertaining, crocheting, photography and jewelry making. I like to travel to historic lighthouses and hear their stories, photograph them and just soak up the sounds and history that surrounds them.<br /><br /><b>Tell us about any commercial art endeavors: </b><br /><br />I received a grant from the Art Council of Greater Lansing in 2013 and it allowed me to create a body of work for our local zoo. I painted 10 of their animals along with teaching painting classes on site. One of the paintings I did was of their lion "Dakota". My lion was chosen to be on a 47' x 17' billboard. It currently is on display in the Lansing area.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-81nYyyhItjc/UwEusMdUG5I/AAAAAAAABvc/W7faJQ9NxZ0/s1600/Mother-giraffeweb+copyright.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-81nYyyhItjc/UwEusMdUG5I/AAAAAAAABvc/W7faJQ9NxZ0/s1600/Mother-giraffeweb+copyright.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>MOTHER GIRAFFE</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">In case you were wondering where I am..........I have
been keeping busy in my studio since my Creative Creature project at the Potter
Park Zoo came to an end.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I have been
working in my studio almost every day while we here in Michigan are caught up
in this polar vortex! They say it has snowed every day since Dec. 2nd!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">My loving husband (he edited this, lol) snow
blows me a path out to my studio almost every day so I can make it out there
safely. I have been fighting off the urge to hibernate away these dark and
snowy months.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">So out to my studio everyday
to work on paintings, techniques and prepare for upcoming classes I will be
teaching. I am trying to get ahead of schedule while we are in this deep freeze
as I have a couple of exhibitions coming up in the spring and summer.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I keep looking out my studio window and
dreaming of all the beautiful blooms I hope to see soon in my gardens.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">When the gardens thaw and start to bloom, I
will be out there weeding so it is good to have this down time to get some
paintings done.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday I worked with a great bunch of kids at our
local art center They made my job easy
as I gave them the tools, some techniques and reference photos and they created
some great art! One boy was so proud of
his tiger painting that he wrapped it up in some paper and wrote "Happy
Valentine Day Mom" on the package.
He said it was the best painting he ever did! Love it! As much as I enjoy painting and creating art,
teaching and sharing it with others is the best part of my job and to see the excitement
on their faces is priceless.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">I am excited to have also been asked to teach a class at the Community Mental Health office this spring for a group of disabled adults. I have always felt the therapeutic effects of creating art personally and I hope they will discover it also.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjyvXrsyy5Y/UwEu1mnEj7I/AAAAAAAABvk/4rQGBnpXglY/s1600/Art-billboard-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjyvXrsyy5Y/UwEu1mnEj7I/AAAAAAAABvk/4rQGBnpXglY/s1600/Art-billboard-web.jpg" height="120" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>MY BILLBOARD ON I-69 IN MICHIGAN</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">On another note, my billboard went up in December so if
you are driving</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> in Michigan on I-69 east of Charlotte near the Potterville exit
you</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> will see my painting of a lion watching your driving, lol </span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WDtBmh5aKBo/UwEvyBq8a-I/AAAAAAAABvs/7ecXNDYu3Qw/s1600/Absolute-me-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WDtBmh5aKBo/UwEvyBq8a-I/AAAAAAAABvs/7ecXNDYu3Qw/s1600/Absolute-me-web.jpg" height="173" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>CREATIVE CREATURES ON EXHIBITION</b><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: small;">My complete collection of my Creative Creatures is hanging at </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Absolute Gallery in Old Town Lansing, Michigan.</span></span></div>
</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-76772708413785785132013-10-15T10:31:00.001-04:002013-10-15T10:31:28.299-04:00CREATIVE CREATURE ENCOUNTER COME TO A CLOSE..........................<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmX-31tf8VE/Ulygb8lpgYI/AAAAAAAABlA/1Bp1vookgWU/s1600/Final+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="131" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmX-31tf8VE/Ulygb8lpgYI/AAAAAAAABlA/1Bp1vookgWU/s320/Final+Image.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">As you
probably can tell by the long silence from me on this blog, I have been very
busy with my grant project. My Creative
Creature Encounter has officially come to a very successful end. Over the
summer, I had over 300 children and some adults paint with me at Potter Park
Zoo in Lansing, Michigan. I had all the supplies available for the kids to sit down and paint with me, and we
painted tigers, ducks, butterflies and giraffes. Everyone that participated went home with a
painting. This was all made possible through
a grant from the <a href="http://www.lansingarts.org/Home.aspx" target="_blank">Arts Council of Greater Lansing</a> and thanks to them, I was able
to supply paint, brushes and canvases for everyone to paint with.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I met a lot
of awesome kids and great painters during my project. It amazes me what great paintings the kids
did with just a little direction from me.
I hope I inspired at least a few young people to follow their creative
spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-veY68mIHg78/Ulyf5hYo35I/AAAAAAAABk0/iag-LxVsxHk/s1600/kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-veY68mIHg78/Ulyf5hYo35I/AAAAAAAABk0/iag-LxVsxHk/s320/kids.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">During the
times I was not at the zoo painting I was in my home studio painting 10 of
the animals that reside at <a href="http://www.potterparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Potter Park Zoo</a>. I also managed to fit in time to
paint an exhibit for the Golden Lion Tamarins that the zoo acquired. Now they have
a new home with a mural of the rain forest canopy as their back drop. My
daughter Katie and I worked on it together
and I think it looks pretty good for our first attempt at a mural. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Potter Park
Zoo is a lovely park with great staff who are very friendly and helpful. They made me feel at home and welcomed me
into their family (human, that is). They have a very wide variety of animals
for all to see.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">My Creative
Creature Encounter project ended with an exhibition of my 10 paintings in their
Safari Room. On September 15th there was
a free reception open to the public. We
had a great turn out. The paintings
continued to be on display until October 5th.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />As a result of the grant from the ACGL I will have an outdoor billboard with the Lion on it somewhere along the highway! The Arts Council has partnered with Adams Outdoor Advertising to produce billboards for artist member grantees of the Arts Council. I am very honored and excited about this and as soon as I know where it will be I will let everyone know of it's whereabouts! </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gbUcZv5k_f0/UlyfSlv7sEI/AAAAAAAABkw/dvJNtLVxqsE/s1600/exhibiton+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gbUcZv5k_f0/UlyfSlv7sEI/AAAAAAAABkw/dvJNtLVxqsE/s200/exhibiton+pic.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>What I
learned from this project:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Kids are
great, creative, energetic and inspiring (but I really already knew that!)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This project enabled me to share my passion for art with others.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I was
challenged and I stepped up to the challenge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I was able
to hone my craft over the 6 months of the project.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Painting
wildlife is still my favorite subject to paint.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Don't stand too close to the Mandrill's cage as they have very long arms! lol</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>Most important lesson of all: </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I would like to acknowledge and thank my family and friends for believing in and supporting me!</span><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-63639107260366657272013-06-07T23:36:00.000-04:002013-06-07T23:36:09.067-04:00CREATIVE CREATURE ENCOUNTER HAS BEGUN...............<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U3LnvLsw2SE/UbIljMM3PNI/AAAAAAAABWQ/O8p87TJUvM8/s1600/1sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U3LnvLsw2SE/UbIljMM3PNI/AAAAAAAABWQ/O8p87TJUvM8/s320/1sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RrWvokKz1LM/UbIo4cQC0mI/AAAAAAAABWw/KQRHhaVmjkk/s1600/IMG950145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RrWvokKz1LM/UbIo4cQC0mI/AAAAAAAABWw/KQRHhaVmjkk/s320/IMG950145.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On June 1st the Greater Lansing Visitors and Convention Bureau
coordinated "Be a Tourist in Your Own Town" by convincing over 70
businesses and attractions to waive their admission fees and hold special
events - all to celebrate how much art, culture and entertainment our city
has. At <a href="http://www.potterparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Potter Park Zoo</a> they threw a
truly wild party by celebrating International Migratory Bird Day on June 1st as
well! One of the main components of the
Individual Artist Grant that I received from the <a href="http://www.lansingarts.org/" target="_blank">Arts Council of Greater Lansing</a> was "community impact".
I couldn't have picked a better day or a better place to get more people
in our community as passionate about painting wildlife as I am. <span style="line-height: 115%;">I knew it would be a busy day, but I had no idea
how busy! I prepared over 70 canvases,
did line drawings of a Bengal Tiger, a Wood Duck and numerous varieties of
butterflies for children of all ages to create art with me. I also brought my trusty side kick and sister
Christine along, and thank goodness I did!
4,687 visitors came to the zoo that day!
I was set up down by the duck pond on a deck with a canopy in case of
rain. The rain held off all day and we
had a great time painting. I don't think
any kids that passed by didn't stop to paint.
I did a line drawing of a Wood Duck in honor of Migratory Bird Day and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service asked me to promote their Federal Junior Duck Stamp contest.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> We had so many kids painting that 2
hours before the event ended I ran out of canvases and paper to paint on! The last few kids that came through painted on
the copy paper I had printed the line drawings on. Christine kept them supplied with paint, brushes and paper while I gave them direction but t</span><span style="line-height: 20px;">hey knew what they wanted to paint and they did a great job with or without my guidance. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">We had all ages from 2 years on up, even had a
young couple sit down and paint the Wood Ducks</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">together. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">I was
very impressed with how well behaved and eager to paint the children
were. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> I am looking forward to another great turnout when I return to
the zoo on July 19th, August 17th and again on October 5th. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Come paint with me and try your hand at art!</span> </span><br />
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<b style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span> <u>Painting Tigers at the Zoo</u></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_pRCJkpS8kg/UbIq3c3rPeI/AAAAAAAABXQ/qpqFUkQd4fU/s1600/IMG_0699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_pRCJkpS8kg/UbIq3c3rPeI/AAAAAAAABXQ/qpqFUkQd4fU/s320/IMG_0699.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3x7QnSWwZqM/UbKccMVjd_I/AAAAAAAABXg/hX6TIdJ_Se8/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gngZjEVa3Ww/UbIlv3wwTaI/AAAAAAAABWk/D4gDc12gK-I/s1600/IMG_0691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gngZjEVa3Ww/UbIlv3wwTaI/AAAAAAAABWk/D4gDc12gK-I/s320/IMG_0691.jpg" width="320" /></a>Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-45626919803605673722013-04-24T08:48:00.000-04:002013-06-07T14:19:29.985-04:00CREATIVE CREATURE ENCOUNTER.........<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">is a go at <a href="http://www.potterparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Potter Park Zoo</a> in Lansing, Michigan!
It is official - I got the grant I applied for back in January. Thanks to the Arts Council of Greater Lansing
for believing in me and my project.
There were 2 categories of grants; emerging artist and established artist. I actually fall into a category
of re-emerging artist but that wasn't a choice so after looking over my resume,
publications and awards the director decided I would fit in the established artist category.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The day the letter came telling me of my award my grandson
became ill and was rushed to the hospital.
It is with a heavy and broken heart that I tell of his passing. I read the letter in his hospital room and one hour later he took his last breath! I
will continue on, for and because of Ethan, but this is going to be very hard as
I have lost the love of my life! Ethan
would have loved to be at the zoo with me and all the kids around us. His room was full of animals - stuffed and
painted.</span></div>
<a href="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/551392_10151443670088743_1650900640_n.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ulZbnFYYRC0/UKzJIix5ksI/AAAAAAAAA1k/WKRAgesKkAg/s200/lion+final+wht+sig.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vfPSKGV2W7M/UWofL49k9JI/AAAAAAAABRM/ZAmiPMPYh-g/s1600/giraffe+sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vfPSKGV2W7M/UWofL49k9JI/AAAAAAAABRM/ZAmiPMPYh-g/s200/giraffe+sm.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2utSxXUnYM0/UWodGP-3BEI/AAAAAAAABQs/8LNu_K2z1hM/s1600/6.Raccoon-C.L.Tonning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2utSxXUnYM0/UWodGP-3BEI/AAAAAAAABQs/8LNu_K2z1hM/s200/6.Raccoon-C.L.Tonning.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I said before my project will be an Artist in Residence
at the Potter Park Zoo. I will be
demonstrating acrylic painting techniques to the public during "Tourist in
your own town" day on June 1st.
Then again on July 19th and August 17th.
I hope to encourage young and old (and those in between) to pick up a
brush and apply paint to a canvas. I
will be providing paint, brushes and small canvases with help from the grant. Just picking up a brush and applying paint to
a canvas is a big step for some. I will
enjoy sharing the awesome feeling I get everytime I pick up my brushes to paint.
It can be relaxing and/or therapeutic, it can be an escape or an embrace. You can tell stories with your art or just
paint something because it is pretty or interesting. I hope to help many take the first step to
picking up a brush and putting paint on a canvas. I hope it will be the beginning of many journeys
for me and them!</span></div>
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<br />Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-36904016060709189472013-02-27T20:33:00.001-05:002013-02-27T20:33:42.853-05:00 TROPICAL BLUES<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mbAAPxvKO0Q/US6D5rZpvmI/AAAAAAAABKs/vYDrbgMjBJc/s1600/tropical+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mbAAPxvKO0Q/US6D5rZpvmI/AAAAAAAABKs/vYDrbgMjBJc/s320/tropical+blue.jpg" width="226" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>TROPICAL BLUES</u></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well a midst the construction of my work stations I have been trying to paint in a little corner of my studio. I decided to recreate a painting that I had intended to keep for myself but in the heat of the moment I sold it. Many things influence my paintings so it is almost impossible to re-create one exactly as before. This week the weather was changing everyday along with my moods. I heard birds outside my window at the beginning of the week just to find out we were going to have another "snow storm of the century" by midweek! Well what we got was a "wintry mess" but not as much snow as promised. This along with my caring for my grandson took it's toll on my moods. I thought if I painted a tropical painting it would lift my mood. What started out as a light airy painting soon turned dark. I struggled not to grey down my tropical colors. I like the contrasts with the vibrant oranges and yellow greens against the dark background but it is not as fresh as I had planned it to be. I have learned to step away from my paintings when I get overwhelmed and I did that many times with this one. At one point it had too much bright green (yes I said too much bright, lol) so I painted blues and purples on tissue paper and then tore it into shapes that fit between the leaves to see how the colors looked as a background. This is a good way to try out background colors without mucking up the painting. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I finally liked the depth of color that the tissue paper added I started washing it onto the painting where need be. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also use my cell phone to take photos of the painting as I go along. This helps me see the contrasts much like a reducing glass does. Having struggled with the background I will say that the hummingbird and the blossom were enjoyable to paint! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have found some useful advise on acrylic painting from <a href="http://www.micheletheberge.com/"><span style="color: red;">Michele Theberge</span></a> at <a href="http://www.micheletheberge.com/">MicheleTheberge.com</a> I am still learning about all the mediums used in Acrylic Painting and she has some helpful advice in this video:</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.themindfulartist.com/2013/01/worst-mistake-acrylic-painters-make/">http://www.themindfulartist.com/2013/01/worst-mistake-acrylic-painters-make/</a> Check it out and let me know what you think.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I can't wait to see blue skies and all the colors of my garden soon!</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-29174542443475525682013-02-24T00:57:00.000-05:002013-02-24T01:02:14.329-05:00STUDIO RENOVATIONS CONTINUE<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.366613948742.156888.333711733742&type=1"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0eV_Yb_nJZM/USmjMJQZhLI/AAAAAAAABJ0/_uS6FyV0ux4/s320/studio+in+progress.jpg" width="235" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.366613948742.156888.333711733742&type=1">STUDIO BEFORE AND ALMOST AFTER.....</a></td></tr>
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STUDIO RENOVATIONS CONTINUED..................</div>
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I am still in the process,with a lot of help from my Son-in-law Scott, of remolding an adjacent garage into my art studio. This will be my first studio outside of my home even though it is just 50 feet or so away. We basically started with the shell of a garage and built it up from floor to ceiling, I'm learning a new trade in the process. lol I now know how to drywall, mud, lay wood flooring and various other builder trades. In the past my studio has always been in my basement along with the kilns. So far I have a kiln room/garden tool storage, art supplies storage room and art studio. We started this project about 2 years ago and the largest part of the renovation is done. After about a year off to work on other projects Scott is doing the final phase of building my work station and cabinets. We tried to find ready made cabinets that we could just put a counter top on but could not find any that fit the bill, so back to the drawing board and Scott will customize them to my specifications. The counter top alone is going to be exciting but a challenge as we are using 140 year old barn wood to make it and then clear coat it with Verathane. I didn't want a total white out like so many studios and this will help bring in a little rustic flare. <br />
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This week he got the base cabinet done that will be part of my work station and it took me most of the week to prime and paint it including all the shelves. I have moved my painting area to the back of the room on my patio table. I was able to finish and start a new painting while I was waiting for the layers of white to dry. I am sure it is going to get more and more difficult to get paintings done as the space gets more crowded with the construction but I plan on trying my best to keep painting.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151334630788743&set=a.457694093742.254744.333711733742&type=3&theater" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FLcez3AkQyc/USmkmxV0mHI/AAAAAAAABJ8/0tKm8Z7RV2c/s200/6x6+poppy.jpg" width="189" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151334630788743&set=a.457694093742.254744.333711733742&type=3&theater" target="_blank">ACRYLIC 6" x 6" POPPY ON CLAYBORD</a></td></tr>
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We hope to get all the cabinetry done by the end of March so I can get busy with my new project at the Zoo. I hope to have a series of great animal portraits done by the end of summer or sooner. I am already planning out my next series of paintings when I am done with the animals. I feel like I have to make up for lost time! lol<br />
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Hope you all stay tuned for the next phase of my art studio and artistic work.</div>
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You can follow me on Facebook at: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/C.L.Tonning.Artist?ref=hl">www.facebook.com/C.L.Tonning.Artist</a><br />
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Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0Owosso, MI 48867, USA42.9978049 -84.17663579999998542.9513489 -84.257316799999984 43.0442609 -84.095954799999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-81370072329482685742013-02-04T16:10:00.000-05:002013-06-07T23:31:54.351-04:00GETTING BACK ONTO THE ART SCENE<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sllxe5Ti0kQ/URAa7w7lzII/AAAAAAAABJg/U0cKZHXqmaI/s1600/giraffe+9x12+claybord.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sllxe5Ti0kQ/URAa7w7lzII/AAAAAAAABJg/U0cKZHXqmaI/s320/giraffe+9x12+claybord.jpg" width="237" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><u>Giraffe on 9" x 12" Clayboard</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>GETTING BACK ONTO THE ART SCENE</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">I
have been busy since the first of the year trying to do some self promotion at
the encouragement of my friends and family.
First off I applied for an artist grant to help me re-emerge onto the
art scene. I have been out of the loop
for a few years while taking care of my disabled grandson and although I still
help care for Ethan every day, it has become easier for me to integrate time to
paint into my weekly schedule. I have
found that painting with acrylics allows me flexibility to work on a piece in
short sittings, yet still enjoy the therapeutic benefits of simply picking up a
brush and creating art. I am also eager to make new connections and colleagues
in the greater Lansing area. My proposed
project for the grant is to be the first "Artist in Residence" for
the Potter Park Zoo in Lansing, MI. I
will be painting, demonstrating and teaching wildlife art in the midst of
Wildlife! I am super excited about this
because through this project I will have the opportunity to paint my favorite
subjects more accurately as I will be able to observe them live and up-close, capturing
their essence, characteristics and personality. I will also have more ownership of the creative
process through this project because I
will have access to take my own photographs, make sketches, and even record
video of the animal so that I will have exactly the reference material that I
need to create the best finished pieces.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">The
most engaging portion of my project will be the public demonstrations that will
be accessible to anyone who visits the zoo while I am there painting. I have found that nature is often the subject
that new artists, both young and old, are drawn to. Painting at the zoo seems a
perfect way to engage people and ignite their creative spirit. While demonstrating, I will have an assortment of
blank canvas boards, brushes and paints available for anyone who wishes to try their
hand at painting. I know from experience that it can be intimidating to try
something new, but my hope is that individuals will feel comfortable joining in
even if they may not feel confident in their artistic abilities, they will be
intrigued and inspired by the live animals, and will want to learn how to
capture them through painting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> I plan
to kick-off my series as a demonstrator at Potter Park Zoo during their annual International Migratory Bird Day
Celebration on June 1<sup>st</sup>.
Throughout the summer I will demonstrate and hold acrylic painting classes
at the zoo. My project will culminate
with an exhibition of my 10 completed pieces that will be held in the zoo’s
Safari Room on September 15th. The Potter Park Zoo has been very generous in offering to
help me procure this grant by offering the space for my classes and waving my numerous admissions
to the zoo as an in-kind donation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; text-indent: 0.25in;">I will try to keep a journal of my progress over the summer months
and share it here.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; text-indent: 0.25in;"> You can also follow my zoo adventures on my facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/C.L.Tonning.Artist">www.facebook.com/C.L.Tonning.Artist</a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 32px;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; text-indent: 0.25in;">I look forward to meeting new artists
and making new friends through this project, and of course all the cool animals I get to paint!</span></div>
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Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0Owosso, MI 48867, USA42.9978049 -84.17663579999998542.9513494 -84.257316799999984 43.0442604 -84.095954799999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-35719000377456718942012-11-21T07:33:00.000-05:002012-11-21T08:06:19.646-05:00GETTING BACK INTO MY STUDIO<div style="text-align: center;">
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It has been awhile since last I wrote. I have been trying to get back into the
studio and work on my paintings as much as possible. Last spring I was in a car accident and did
serious damage to my right shoulder. The
recovery is a very long and slow process but thank God it was my right
shoulder because I am left handed. With all the pain, meds and surgery, the
summer was a bust for getting any paintings done. Having said that I am now on a mission to get
caught up on my paintings. I have
decided to concentrate on painting animals and nature. </div>
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I just finished these two paintings of a tiger cub and lion
that live at our local zoo. Painting fur
is always a challenge. I was a
hairdresser in another life so sometimes I feel I get a little carried away
with their Do's, lol. I used a
"0" Script Liner for the longer hairs and a 10/0 Spotter brush for
the short hairs. With animals I find you
have to not only pay attention to the direction of the hair growth but the
texture of the hair as well.</div>
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When I originally switched over to Acrylic Painting from
Porcelain Art I struggled with keeping the paints moist. Porcelain paints are mixed with oil and stay
wet until fired in the kiln. At the
beginning I used a Stay-Wet Pallet. I no
longer use this for two reasons: 1) Too
big and cumbersome 2) Mold started
growing after about a week. I have tried
various pallet systems including a sheet of glass but the one I like best is an
inexpensive one from the craft store called "Peel-Off Pallet". It is a flat rectangle with a dividing line
across the top for paint and then a large flat area which is divided in half
for mixing and blending colors. When the
paints eventually dry on it they can be peeled off. I cover it with Glad Press and Seal when I
have to step away from the studio for awhile.
I also keep a water bottle with a fine misting nozzle close by. While I am working on a painting I mist my
paints every 10 to 15 minutes. This
keeps them moist and prevents a skin from forming on top.</div>
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I have also decided to use Liquitex Paints exclusively. I like their colors, tube shape (caps are
easier to handle if you have arthritis as I do) and the body of their
paints. I have only used their glazing
medium and flow agents so I am not an expert on their mediums. I don't get much time to experiment so I
usually just get right to painting when I get time in the studio.</div>
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In the last couple of months I have been getting set up to
teach in my studio. I held my first acrylic class here last month and hope to
have more after the first of the year.
Message me at: <a href="mailto:cltonning@gmail.com">cltonning@gmail.com</a> if you are interested in classes or
if you just have questions about painting. You can see more of my work at my facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/C.L.Tonning.Artist?ref=hl">https://www.facebook.com/C.L.Tonning.Artist?ref=hl</a></div>
Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0Owosso, MI 48867, USA42.9978049 -84.176635842.9745784 -84.2161178 43.0210314 -84.1371538tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-40461051841896868452012-09-17T11:32:00.000-04:002012-09-17T11:32:41.517-04:00<br />
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<strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">DESIGNS, COMPOSIT</span></strong><strong></strong><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">ION & WORKING F</span></strong><strong></strong><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">ROM PHOTOS</span></strong></div>
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As I think back to my very first art experience I remember sitting with my dad and watching him sketch, paint or carve various art projects. In the short 8 years I had with him one of my fondest memories is of him teaching me how to draw a tree. I think that is why to this day I enjoy working up my ideas in pencil first. When working from a photo I like to make a black & white copy of it. This helps me see the subtle transitions between the lights and darks and their shapes. Black and white photos flatten out the image more to show us the shapes of the shadows and spaces around and on the subject.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClA1FLsluFI/UFdB7aWKZQI/AAAAAAAAAdc/T3q0G2MNtDM/s1600/Cardinal+and+apples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClA1FLsluFI/UFdB7aWKZQI/AAAAAAAAAdc/T3q0G2MNtDM/s320/Cardinal+and+apples.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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<b><u>CARDINAL ON AN APPLE TREE BRANCH</u></b>
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My daughter Katie is Program Director for <a href="http://www.mynaturecenter.org/">Fenner Nature Center</a> in Lansing so I have access to great nature photos of plants and wildlife. This piece was painted for the silent auction last year at the Fenner Apple Butter Fest. In the spirit of this I created this painting of a cardinal on an apple branch. This is my own composition. When I sat down to compose this I thought about my negative space and creating a path for the viewer to follow through the piece. If a branch catches your eye and leads you off the canvas then there should be something to pull your eye back onto the piece and help your eye travel through and around the composition. I did this with the position of the branches, leaves and even the shadow apples.<br />
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I used an analogous color scheme on the painting. I wanted it to feel warm and vibrant like a fall afternoon. Analogous colors sit next to each other on the color wheel. I used the Cardinal and the apples as my main color and then built my scheme around that. I always have my color wheel close at hand.<br />
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Please feel free to comment or contact me if you have any questions or just want to share. Have a great painting experience!<br />
Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-91912090032133246592012-09-17T09:12:00.001-04:002013-04-17T12:49:59.667-04:00An Artist's Birthright<br />
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Welcome to my blog. As my first post, I would like to tell you a little bit about me and my “Art Birthright”.<br />
I was born to creative parents in December of 1952. My father was an artist all of his life and my mother was a talented seamstress. I did not have a relationship with store bought clothes until I was living on my own. Both of my parents shared their talents with me, but unfortunately I hate sewing! I did learn to sew and I can make alterations, but I avoid it as much as possible.<br />
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My father, Bernard James Tonning, was chief designer for American Seating Company until his untimely death in 1961 at the age of 42. Even though I was only 8 years old when he passed away, I have never forgotten his easy manner, his kind heart and his laugh. I treasure my memories of the art lessons on a Sunday afternoon, as he always had projects for us at the kitchen table. It might be building models, painting pictures, drawing, or singing by the piano while he played. He was an extraordinary person, as is my mother, who is still with us and going strong at 83 years young. Even though his time with us was short, his influence was strong, passing many talents to me and my siblings.<br />
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With this quick glimpse of my life as a child, you can understand how I came into my artist’s birthright, but without the encouragement of my father, I struggled with finding my art soul for years. It wasn’t until I had a family of my own that I decided to go back to school and get not one, but two art degrees. One degree is in Fine Art and the other is in Commercial Illustration. At this point I had played with many medias, but China Painting was my favorite and so the next phase of my art life began. From 1996 through 2006, I traveled across the country selling my art and teaching seminars on porcelain overglaze painting, also known as “China Painting”. I held the office of President for the World Organization of China Painters from 2005 through 2007. My final hoorah as president was the successful organization of an International show and convention for porcelain artists at DeVos Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan.<br />
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But life takes us in many directions and often dictates what our next role is to be, and life was telling me now that I was to move in a different direction. On a summer day in June of 2006 my life changed forever when my 1st grandson, Ethan Blake was born to my daughter Kate and her husband Scott, and what should have been the happiest of days, quickly became very serious. We found out that Ethan was born with severe disabilities as his brain had not fully developed in the womb. Within the first 24 hours all of the specialists told us that he would not survive and that if we did get to take him home, he would not live to his 1st birthday. With a broken heart and a lot of soul searching, I decided to put my career on hold. My husband Michael and I had been living in the Chicago area, but decided we needed to move back to Michigan to stay with our daughter’s family and help with Ethan’s care, which was around the clock. While we had been told that Ethan qualified for nursing care, we didn’t get our first nurse until he was 15 months old, so Kate, Scott and I traded 4 hours shifts. Their house was small so Michael and I bought a beautiful home that was much larger and we moved everyone in with us. We still all share in his care, along with the help of his wonderful nurses. Ethan turned 5 this summer and while he is unable to speak or walk, he communicates with us with big smiles and loving eyes and our lives have been changed forever.<br />
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And now I feel it is time to move to the next chapter of my life. Because we have help with Ethan’s care, I’m heading back into my home studio in Owosso, Michigan. My plan is to set up an acrylic techniques class, as well as water media and china painting. My subjects are mainly nature, ie: flowers, nature scenes and animal portraits. And back to the birthright…both of my children have inherited the art gene, but it hasn’t rubbed off on my husband, Michael! :)<br />
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I hope to keep this blog updated with class schedules, projects and maybe some mini lessons, and I hope that you will follow me as I share “An Artist’s Birthright”.<br />
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P.S. Ethan Blake Woodhams died March 30, 2013 and my life will be forever changed for having loved and cared for him!Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064118734726786225.post-27759065841472205622010-03-30T09:12:00.000-04:002010-03-30T09:35:33.911-04:00New studio<span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" >I am in the process,with a lot of help from my Son-in-law Scott, of remolding an adjacent garage into my art studio. This will be my first studio outside of my home even though it is just 50 feet or so away. I hope to be teaching art classes by this summer. We are basically starting with the shell of a garage and building it from floor to ceiling, I'm learning a new trade in the process. lol In the past my studio has always been in my basement along with the kilns. I will have a kiln room, storage room and studio with a separate work space for Scott to work on his toys. That is the least I could do for all the work he is putting into my studio. I will not only be teaching porcelain art but painting and drawing classes too. You </span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" >can check out some of my art work at <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://catherinetonning.com/">http://catherinetonning.com</a> or my Facebook page at </span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=1518687196#%21/pages/Catherine-Tonning-Popowich-Porcelain-Artist/333711733742?ref=mf"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Catherine Tonning-Popowich - Porcelain Artist </span></a></span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=1518687196#%21/pages/Catherine-Tonning-Popowich-Porcelain-Artist/333711733742?ref=mf"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></a>Catherine Tonninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17195311679943057812noreply@blogger.com0