“Upon the apple-branches, an icy film is caught,
With trailing threads of gossamer, in pearly patterns wrought.”
~ Evaleen Stein,November Morning
November, a time of gray days, where the sky hangs low, and leaves gather in the gutters and dance across the lawns. A time just before winter, when the trees prepare for sleep, and the air holds the promise of frost, and possibility. The woods seem both so open, and yet something about the skeleton trees reminds me of faerie mischief. Yes, magic hangs in these November days.
I've been planning a new painting series. I've been exploring our tall grass prairies, taking pictures, and collecting seed pods and bits of leaves. The sketches have been piling up and I've just received an order of 30 wooden panels which I will be painting upon. I hope to be sharing work in progress pictures soon, but I'm finding November is becoming very busy.
I don't often go to fancy art galas, but this November I will. The Burlington Fine Arts League (BFAL) is hosting its annual Gala on Nov. 19th. I have donated a painting for the silent auction, and am looking forward to a fun evening. Art and other gift packages will be auctioned off to raise funds for the BFAL, which provides resources for Burlington area projects, and scholarships for students. I received a scholarship form them when attending UNI, so I like to give back and support the BFAL. If your'e interested in attending, or learning more about the BFAL visit their site.
Whispers of autumn will also be in Burlington, IA for the first Holly Days Boutique. This fine art and craft fair will be held Nov. 13th 11-5pm at Pzazz convention center. I'm sure it will be perfect for kickstarting holiday shopping. I love attending art and craft fairs and supporting local small businesses and am excited to see what the other artists will have.
Speaking of holiday art fairs, there will be a number of them in the Des Moines area. Market Day Des Moines will be held Friday Nov. 25 from 9-5pm in Capitol square.
Red Thread Gallery will be hosting an Itty Bitty Art Market for Small Business Saturday on Nov. 26th 10-6pm in down town West Des Moines.
Lastly, The Burlington Art center will be having its annual members show this month. The opening reception is Thursday Nov.17th 6-8pm.
So yes, November is shaping up to be another busy month. And even though I can't wait for all the fun art festivities, I'm also looking forward to those quiet gray days when I can paint, or maybe stroll through the woods in search of a bit of magic.
Thank you for supporting my art at Whispers of Autumn studio. May your day be filled with moments of wonder.
~Autumn