Patti Edmon Artist

Working on a series of pieces incorporating black and white prints from the archives has kindled a deep sense of satisfaction.  I haven't worked in the darkroom for nearly twenty years and I didn't start experimenting with acrylics until 2007;  tying then and now together on watercolor paper, I realized that while the medium might be different I have always had the need to see what's around the next corner, behind that weathered door.  My primary reason for using the watercolor book was because I don't need another dozen canvases loitering in the studio. I found it quite liberating, not nearly as serious as prepping a 12x12 board with gesso.  A lifelong writer, I've had trouble getting art journaling to make sense; they've always been separate disciplines. Then I realized it's just about playing, experimenting and I opened the watercolor book and the fun began.  If I had a dollar for every word I've written I'd be having lunch with Bill Gate...

Not long after whining about the art rut, I was browsing on Create Mixed Media and came across a video featuring Seth Apter , the amazing artist, person and creative friend extr a ordinair e. In the p review of the Easy Mixed Medi a Techniques for the Art Journal DVD, 'low tech' was a term he used to describe using whatever we have at hand to complement our fancy, expe nsiv e art supplies (my words:). After watch ing him make fabulous texture on watercolor paper using acrylics, gesso, wallpaper an d doodling , I was inspired to play. The 'low tech' approach made it easy to bypass my art critic in residence ( in my brain) and start ... I cut apart a Kleenex box and applied gesso to the panels, leaving a few of their design elements sh owing .    Making a book using a tissue box, coffee bags, anything recycled has many benefits. First, how can you screw up a Kleenex box? No fine art standards in this project. It also stimulate...