Over and over again I am reminded that awe is the realm of wonder. Children take us there. Leaping into the unknown is their only choice. They've never been here before.

Fountain child, Paula Kovarik — *Fountain child*, Paula Kovarik

My piece, Pollinators, was accepted into the Delta Arts Exhibition in Little Rock this year. — My piece, *Pollinators*, was accepted into the Delta Arts Exhibition in Little Rock this year.

This week I went to the Delta Exhibition at the Arkansas Art Center in Little Rock to see my piece, Pollinators. I had the double delight of seeing an exhibition of children's artwork in the reception hall. I was awestruck.

These children have a raw sense of composition, color and energy that is unmatched. Their spontaneity and eager mark making make the art in the other rooms look like they are napping. Kudos to their teachers who must be standing by with pride and joy.

The Weird Girl by Camden Wells, first grade — *The Weird Girl* by Camden Wells, first grade

Monster by Roman Serfaty, first grade — *Monster* by Roman Serfaty, first grade

I wish I could publish all of the pieces I saw that day. They bring joy and wonder to a day filled with heartbreaking national news. If only we could channel that child-mind to our understanding of life every day. If only we could turn the course of violence into orange monsters that can be contained on sheets of newsprint. If only we could protect these innocents so that we can learn from them. If only we could see that life is joy and wonder.

And awe.

I am lucky to have two grandsons who are incredible artists. Each has his own style and both are serious practitioners. I have collected a number of their drawings and am working on a piece called Kindergarten using their art. Following their line work with my sewing reveals a spontaneity and vigor that is inspiring and fun.

The piece below shows a progressive shot showing a finished face and others that are still in the rough stitching phase. Since these two boys tend to draw in short sectional lines there is a lot of stopping and starting (and therefore a lot of clean up to do after stitching).

Classes coming in 2024

See my work