two more days

October 31, 2012

do the doodle, detail, Paula Kovarik

Two more days before the opening of my show at the Buckman Gallery here in Memphis. Reading tne news today about galleries in the East Village flooding made me nervous to think of all this work in a different space without my watchful eye on it.

Let's face it, I am nervous about everything these days...is the work good enough? will I make inane comments at the opening (yes)? Will people just look at it and say i..n..t...e..r..e..s..t..i..n..g..and drift off to the nearest exit? Will I trip and spill white wine all over someone?

Why do I feel compelled to show the work? If I could be behind the scenes watching it on webcam I would feel much more comfortable.

Not in

October 28, 2012

Received word last week that my pieces did not get chosen for FiberArt International. My reaction to the email was neutral. I am so focused on my show opening this friday and the pieces that I want to create in the future that the thought of another show somewhere else makes me weary. I would have liked to be included. Last year's show was really something special and the chance to be a part of it would have been an honor.

For now I am satisfied with what is happening with my art and that is what is most important to me.

debuting a fabric

October 28, 2012

I am starting a new piece that starts with this tablecloth. I love the detail on it and the simple geometric pattern the cutwork creates. Bad thing about working with pieces like this is taking that first step. To dye or not to dye? to cut or not to cut? Start in the middle or from the outside? Where does the narrative begin?

The good thing about projects like this is that there are always surprises.

getting ready for the show

October 21, 2012

heart study, Paula Kovarik, 2012

Long hours of experimenting has produced 8 studies for the new show I am preparing at the Mertie Buckman Levy Gallery. The show opens on Nov 2. Days are short and details mounting up. At some point I just have to say ENOUGH.

Earth Stories

October 19, 2012

I have been accepted into SAQA’s 25th Anniversary exhibition, Earth Stories, which will open at Michigan State University Museum in Spring of 2014. This will be the first time I create work to fit a specific theme with guidelines on size. I am excited about the opportunity and look forward to working on the piece. It is going to be an interesting and exhilirating challenge. The work will travel for 3 years.

Here is the original prospectus statement about the show:

There are many stories of hope across the globe. Both individuals and small groups are working on projects that when added together make a positive impact on increasing the quality of life on this planet. Earth Stories will celebrate the stories of people or projects that enhance the planet, make a significant difference in restoring and/or protecting the environment, increase sustainability and otherwise improve the earth we all occupy.

And my fellow Earth Stories artists (an impressive list!!):