It is good to be back in my finish studio working on paying conservation projects.
I have a NPS project due this month.
Historic Mason Monterey paper and iron “chandeliers” for the Chateau need to be reproduced. The original historic shades
are a century old — not bad for paper —
and covered in grease and accumulated filth from a lifetime of living in the old hotel.
You can see them in the background.
In the foreground is the test reproduction MPF Conservation (us) made to explore
how to reproduce the shades, sitting next to the next five shades due end of month!
Stepping back fully into my life, grateful for this opportunity!
The surgeon’s screw-up led me to even more weeks on my back — literally —
and so now I am woefully out of shape!
The older we are, that slower the climb out of slothfulness!
I have not painted anytime outside of the finish studio this week because f
rankly my arms and back and hands ached!
BTW, I have to say I am in love with this amazing shade of ink:
Diamine Ancient Copper. I only wish it were also waterproof!
Working with this lovely hand-made Japanese paper is a treat.
Sheets of 60×72 inches made by two Japanese men “when they feel like it”
has been a challenge for the NPS to wrap their minds around!
We waited two months to have the paper arrive.
And each batch is different, which is why I have to test the batches.
I am working with organic ingredients — lac flakes, hemp, kozo, human beings!
And I am off after posting, to apply more shellac,
this time to a table! The paper for the lamps has to cure ten days,
then I can wax and fashion it into the lampshade and deliver it JUST IN TIME!
Listen to me: Wear your mask and get a GOOD one.
Not from the local paint store — they often don’t do the job!
It may save your life!
Moleskin 8×11 watercolor journal, Pentalic HB woodless pencil,
A cheap office supply Sheaffer calligraphy pen and an expensive Lamy Safari pen,
Diamine Ancient Copper Ink and De Artramentis Black Document ink,
and Holbien and Daniel Smith watercolors.
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D.Katie Powell Art 
Wonderful art journal pages, love your writing style too!
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Thanks Lynn!
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So interesting to see you planning it out.
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Thanks Cindy — This is what we do for a living!
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Oh the lamp shades look wonderful and I love your paintings in the journal. I’m glad you’re doing better.
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Thansk Lisa — So am I!
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What a wonderfully creative project you have and love how you have painted it in your journal ~
Happy Weekend to you,
artmusedog and carol
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Thanks! Happy PPF!
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I am looking forward to hearing more about the lampshades – that looks like an amazing project Kate.
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This project tested the patience of the NPS (thankfully we had a good working relationship with them) because they wanted them last December! The paper delayed (it always surprises them) then the Long Beach Dock strike — then my surgery. Crazy!
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I love how you encorporate writing into your artwork. It is just stunning.
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Thanks Beth. I’ve wanted to combine journaling with my artwork for a long time; finally found reliable pens I LIKE!
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I love all of this. I am sorry you are hurting though. I know this getting old stuff is not for sissy’s.
Wishing you well.
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Thanks Nicole! Getting old is still better than the alternative!
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Hi Katie,
Interesting work on the lamp shades and that diamine ancient copper is a very beautiful colour. Talk about falling in love with colours lol! But it’s too hard to pick just one though! Love your journals. Namaste.
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Thank you Harriet! Yes, falling in love with color is a dangerous habit!
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Love your journal pages.
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Thanks Jo!
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Glad you are back at it. Wonderful journal pages!!
Hugs Giggles
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Thanks Happy!
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Hi Kate. I think the lampshades are beautiful. Wonderful designs. Have a great day.
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Thanks Nicole. Later this year I will be doing a silk lampshade with beadwork — and will paint it as well!
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How wonderful to be able to be able to recreate precious items from the past. Your journal pages are wonderful, too!
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Thanks Gloria — I think your moving into an abstract direction sounds fun. I tried to post on your site but blogger often doesn’t take my comments. —
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You have the sexiest lines in PPF… Glad you are getting back into the swing of things… Xx
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I am so happy that you came by to look around! I am getting into the swing of things! XO
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I adore your artwork–I like the way you incorporate your words (and lovely handwriting) into the actual painting. WONDERFUL! Fills my eyes.
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Thanks Beth; I love your art too!
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