Turquoise Sunshine “Turquoise Sunshine”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 11 x 9 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“Turquoise Sunshine” Listen to “Turquoise Sunshine” here. How did it get this title? Haha–isn’t it obvious? Just kidding! This angle of scrapes lends itself to suggesting movement–but, a very slight and gentle movement. It’s this same kind of impression I feel on a cool, summer day with sunshine streaming through the shade of some old tree–the light changes–and so do the colors and leaves. Something I love about this painting…is the gentle movement. I really love it. I love the puffs of white that subtly make them selves known, like clouds on a blue sky canvas of summer sunshine. I also like how clean it feels. And although the yellow use here is mainly like lemonade, I love the little blip of egg yolk in the upper left edge of the piece. “Turquoise Sunshine”A Poem By: Molly OvendenSun cream smeared,–check!Beach lounger secured,–check!Snazziest sunglasses donned,–check! Eyes closed in sunshine,Imagination dreaming peace,Deep breaths inhaled–a pause…Cleansing breaths released. Sun hat? Shading perfection,Cool breeze? Gentle direction,Camera ready? Indeed!With views sans obstruction. A moment by the waterCould be turquoise by the sea,Or simply: an afternoon Near my neighborhood pond.–just sunshine–And, you and me! Try this: Close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths. Then, open your eyes and pause for another couple breaths as you look at this painting called, “Turquoise Sunshine.” What do you notice about the angle of this piece? God, where in my life might You want to show me a different perspective? Consider the title or the poem alongside this painting: Can you see the poem happening in the painting? What other stories do you see happening in the painting? God, what might You want to show me about the stories I tell myself about my life?
Contemplative Springs of Hope An interactive journaling, contemplative prayer, poetry, and artwork exhibition: created and curated by Molly Ovenden.Molly Ovenden is a prolific typewriter poet, visual artist, creative mentor, who loves sharing journaling prompts in order to get closer to God as a spiritual practice. Welcome to “Contemplative Springs of Hope.”Thank you so much for being here! I’m so delighted to get to share Beauty and Hope, through art, poetry, and contemplative reflections, with you from wherever you are around the world. Breakers, an original painting by Molly Ovenden Aha!, an original painting by Molly Ovenden Turquoise Sunshine, an original painting by Molly Ovenden When Evening Comes, an original painting by Molly Ovenden Ephemeral Iridescence, an original painting by Molly Ovenden Yellow, You Get Me, an original painting by Molly Ovenden Sunshine & Sherbet, an original painting by Molly Ovenden Peach Fuzz & Fire, an original painting by Molly Ovenden Featured Artwork “Breakers” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here.“Aha” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here.“Turquoise Sunshine” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here.“When Evening Comes” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here.“Ephemeral Iridescence” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here.“Yellow, You Get Me” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here.“Sunshine & Sherbet” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here.“Peach Fuzz & Fire” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. (Note: You can watch the above 25 seconds of quick, time lapsed walkthrough to get a glimpse of the feel of the exhibition here.) With prayerful joy, Molly shares “Contemplative Springs of Hope” as an offering of creativity and Beauty–as an arrow of Hope that point to Jesus. No matter your faith background, she hopes that you take a moment to pause and reflect on the paintings and the poems. Perhaps you will become aware of something sacred in your life. Maybe you will notice a fresh experience of Holy Spirit presence and guidance. You might even feel a well of Hope bubbling up as a living spring as you contemplate what’s before you in this gallery. Visio Divina is an Ignatian spiritual practice of finding God and the sacred in art and in nature by contemplating on the visual. It’s a practice of invitation to slow down, to really look and look again, and to notice what you see, visually as well as in your being–emotionally, as memories or thoughts well up. No matter what you experience, how engaged you are here, or what you get out of the art, poetry, and prompts, Molly hopes you will feel full of Hope when you leave this space. (Note: You may choose to experience the gallery exhibition in a slower pace than the time lapsed video earlier. You can watch and pause this video here with the chatter and bustle of Sunday morning gathering and giddiness.) What is VISIO DIVINA? Click here to find out more of how to engage. When we look at Art, often within one to two seconds we’ve decided, “I don’t get it. I love it. I don’t like it. That’s cool. I like it. I hate it. I don’t understand art.” And whatever declaration we make about the piece, we simply move on without much thought. In school we tend to experience and learn about Art (if we learn about Art, at all) in its parts and pieces: elements and principles. We learn to label color, line, texture, pattern, balance, contrast, and we practice treating Art like we do in Biology while dissecting frogs. Here are all of the pieces taken apart…but, what do we do with them? How do we put them back together? What am I meant to do? How do I create and notice beauty with all of…this mess? Art may be a source of discouragement or hurt for you. You are invited. “Artist” may be a title you courageously call yourself. You are invited. Poetry may be a mystery that baffles and distances you. You are invited. “Writer” may be a title you comfortably use to identify yourself. You are invited. Maybe you used to love art or words, but an important person in your life–a parent, a teacher, a close friend–laughed at you, said your words were crap, or that being creative and expressing emotions was a waste of time…or, even just plain wrong. Maybe you know Art is Beauty and you co-create with the Creator of the universe. You’ve studied it, been published, shared your creative work regularly–received positive responses from your collectors and readers…and you’ve found that Art is part of who you are. But, what if you responded “Yes” to this invitation to search for the sacred and connect with Our Heavenly Father through Art and Beauty in Nature? What if you began to see Beauty as an Arrow of Hope, pointing to Jesus? What if you paused for a couple of breaths to notice God in Art? Visio Divina is a contemplative prayer practice from Ignatian Spirituality which invites the viewer of art to ponder and dwell with a piece of art for a bit longer than normal. It’s an invitation to notice and experience the sacred, the divine, to see our Creator God in the art. And, it’s an invitation to wait on Holy Spirit to reveal something fresh to us through Beauty–in Art, in Nature. “Breakers”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 10 x 10 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“Breakers” “Breakers” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. Something I love about this painting is…the way the negative white space holds the wave droplets of blue from the bottom right square scrape. This is one of my “Scrapings” and one of the things I love about this process of painting is how unpredictable it is. It’s always a practice of freedom from control and perfectionism. This favorite part of mine is there only because I let go of control. I love the squelch of acrylic paint and how it squishes and then when I lift off my scraper, there’s some cool pattern left over. The meaning behind the title is…my parents and I went to an RV marina resort in central Minnesota when I was about 10-13 years old. It was called “Breakers.” I learned to fish out there on Lake Mille Lacs and I loved staying in our Airstream trailer and doing stuff by the water. Breakers are the waves that break against the land. You can see the whitecaps (which is partly played out in the white negative space of this piece) of the breakers and it just reminds me of happy summers with my mom. “Breakers”A Poem By: Molly OvendenRiding edges of water smooth glass mirrorsseagulls flitter disturbingcalm into waves walleye leap munching,surface ‘squitos hover,perch feast bubbling,humid mayflies dance,northern pike fighting,slimy leeches slithercalm into waves foamy white rippleseagles rest observingactive waters cascade sapphires ebb to wakeloons laugh beckoningcalm into wavesinto crashing breakers’ spray Riding edges of water Try this: Close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths. Then, open your eyes and pause for another couple breaths as you look at this painting called, “Breakers.” Which part are you drawn to most: The straight, clean edge of the top squares? Or, the uneven edge of the bottom squares? God, why might this stand out to me today? How do you respond to this collection of blues? God, what might You want to say to me about this color? Thank You, God, for being with me in this moment of reflection. “Aha!”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 9 x 11 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“Aha!” “Aha” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. How did it get this title? Once I’d held up the matt to “find” the painting, I had a physical reaction, like a gasp–like an, “Aha!” moment of joy and discovery. It’s called what it did to me and for me. Something I love about this painting…is how many colors are used without being muddy. I love the deep blue at the bottom next to the turquoise. I love the metallic shimmer throughout. I love the warmth of peace. I love how the white actually participates within each square–not just as a backdrop. I love how it still makes me gasp with joyful realization long after I created it. “Aha!”A Poem By: Molly OvendenI’ve been waitingI’ve been wishingI’ve been exploringI want that momentTo come in surpriseTo shock me aliveTo ignite my soul–without any warning! I’ve been prayingThrough cloudy nightsI’ve been pleadingThrough foggy daysI’ve been waitingIn Hope until morning “Aha!” When my eyes brimFrom tears as BeautyIn sunrise blazing peachy-blueAnd I praiseIn a gasp of solitude. Try this: Take a couple of slow breaths to become present in this moment and invite Holy Spirit to come while you observe this painting, “Aha!” Which square are you drawn to? What do you notice about how the colors mix together? God, what might You want to say to me about this mixture of colors? How does your response to the negative space (where paint isn’t) differ from your response to the positive space (where paint is)? God, what might You want to show me through my response? Jesus, thank You for being with me in this moment of prayer. “Turquoise Sunshine”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 11 x 9 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“Turquoise Sunshine” “Turquoise Sunshine” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. How did it get this title? Haha–isn’t it obvious? Just kidding! This angle of scrapes lends itself to suggesting movement–but, a very slight and gentle movement. It’s this same kind of impression I feel on a cool, summer day with sunshine streaming through the shade of some old tree–the light changes–and so do the colors and leaves. Something I love about this painting…is the gentle movement. I really love it. I love the puffs of white that subtly make them selves known, like clouds on a blue sky canvas of summer sunshine. I also like how clean it feels. And although the yellow use here is mainly like lemonade, I love the little blip of egg yolk in the upper left edge of the piece. “Turquoise Sunshine”A Poem By: Molly OvendenSun cream smeared,–check!Beach lounger secured,–check!Snazziest sunglasses donned,–check! Eyes closed in sunshine,Imagination dreaming peace,Deep breaths inhaled–a pause…Cleansing breaths released. Sun hat? Shading perfection,Cool breeze? Gentle direction,Camera ready? Indeed!With views sans obstruction. A moment by the waterCould be turquoise by the sea,Or simply: an afternoon Near my neighborhood pond.–just sunshine–And, you and me! Try this: Close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths. Then, open your eyes and pause for another couple breaths as you look at this painting called, “Turquoise Sunshine.” What do you notice about the angle of this piece? God, where in my life might You want to show me a different perspective? Consider the title or the poem alongside this painting: Can you see the poem happening in the painting? What other stories do you see happening in the painting? God, what might You want to show me about the stories I tell myself about my life? Holy Spirit, thank You for guiding me in this time of prayer and contemplation. “When Evening Comes”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 11 x 9 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“When Evening Comes” “When Evening Comes” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. How did it get this title? In Yorkshire, the latitude is further north than in Minnesota, so the angle of light is different. As an island, Great Britain is surrounded by unique cloud cover. This also alters the quality of light as it dissipates. The rapeseed fields of most delightful yellow thrill my eyes–especially at the low light of sunset. That is the moment I see captured in this piece. Something I love about this painting…EVERYTHING! THe yellow is exactly the yellow of my favourite fields. There’s an indigo-purple-blue situation in the top ⅔ of six scrapes of squares. I love the “sloppiness” of the twilight and how light and shadow interact with the progression of day into night. “When Evening Comes”A Poem By: Molly OvendenWhen evening comes…Today’s fun must pause:Resetting.Returning.Putting it all away. When evening comes…Night’s fears may threaten:Swallowing.Isolating.Mocking insecurities stay. When evening comes…Resting Beauty winks indoors:Basking.Mesmerising.Standing in awe, awake. When Evening comes…This moment’s choice to follow:Seeking Truth.Pursuing Life.Holding Hope for Day when it’s Night,Or choosing lesser that leaves one hollow– When evening comes…May there be pondering peaceAnd intentions of gratitude. Try this: Take a couple of slow breaths to become present in this moment and invite Holy Spirit to come while you observe this painting, “When Evening Comes.” What do you notice about the textures the paint makes in this piece? God, why am I drawn most to this particular type of texture? Consider the descriptions alongside the piece–what the artist loves and where the title comes from: How does connecting with the artist through her words create meaning as you experience this painting? God, where might I be longing for connection with someone in a relationship that has gone dark into the evening? Abba, Father, thank You for loving me as I spend time seeking You now. “Ephemeral Iridescence”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 10 x 10 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“Ephemeral Iridescence” “Ephemeral Iridescence” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. How did it get this title? According to lexicom/com Ephemeral, is defined as “lasting for a short time…(chiefly of plants) having a short life cycle” and iridescence, defined as “Showing luminous colors that seem to change when seen from different angles.” Noticing beauty in nature is really important to me; sometimes it is fleeting, but the beauty in nature is always a gift from God. Something I love about this painting is…the pastel shades and the way that each of these four squares in this “Scraping” create the white, negative space of the white canvas paper, creating a cross that’s slightly at a jaunty angle. “Ephemeral Iridescence”A Poem By: Molly Ovenden trying to catcha leprechaunleft a trail:golden glitterthrough each hallthen gone trying to recalla dreamleft a whisperstrange memorythrough the mindthen gone trying to holda hopeleft a yearning:yet unansweredthrough caverns of griefthen gone trying to kindlea friendshipleft a sweetness:imprinted the soulthrough lifetimes of love–a season ephemeral, fleeting though valued–a grace iridescent,glimmering through raised palms Try this: Close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths. Then, open your eyes and pause for another couple breaths as you look at this painting called, “Ephemeral Iridescence.” Which part are you drawn to most: The vertical or horizontal space between squares? Or, the space where the paint is? God, why might this particular detail stand out to me today? What do you notice about your emotional reaction to these shades of colors? God, what might You want to say to me about these colors? Thank You, God, for being with me in this moment of reflection. “Yellow, you get me.”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 9 x 11 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“Yellow, you get me.” “Yellow, You Get Me” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. How did it get this title? Yellow is joyful, triumphant, light, and fun. I want to be joyful, triumphant, light, and fun! So, I feel like yellow understands who I am and who I hope to be. I hope that it could be an encouragement to others who see this painting. Something I love about this painting…is the fact that it is yellow. Because I love yellow! I always say that all of the colors are my favorite, but I think that yellow might actually be my favorite. It’s so happy! “Yellow, You Get Me.”A Poem By: Molly OvendenIn a worldWhere Lonely curlsCosy in at home,FeigningAcceptance whenWe all feel alone–In a worldWhere risking honestWords aloud screamsRetreatingObscurity whenWe all feel misunderstood– It’s a smile.It’s a nod.It’s a “hello”Each todayThat dulls inStreaks of grey…It’s a welcome homeGreeting, of gratitudeAnd joyous relief:“Yellow, you get me!” Try this: Take a couple of slow breaths to become present in this moment and invite Holy Spirit to come while you observe this painting, “Yellow, You Get Me!” Which square are you drawn to? Are you drawn to more than one because of how they connect? Because of something else? God, what might You want to say to me about this collection of shapes? How does your response to the negative space (where paint isn’t) differ from your response to the positive space (where paint is)? God, what might You want to show me through my response? Jesus, thank You for being with me in this moment of prayer. “Sunshine & Sherbet”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 11 x 9 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“Sunshine & Sherbet” “Sunshine & Sherbet” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. How did it get this title? It looks like a glorious summer day with high up, wispy clouds in the all blue and then there’s this bright spot of yellow joy the color of both a sugary lemon sherbet and of sunshine. Something I love about this painting…that while I tend to go for a warm yellow, this one is much cooler–and, I love the effect. And when I take a moment to really look at this painting, I love how many different combinations of blues and yellows there are without fully making green. “Sunshine & Sherbet”A Poem By: Molly OvendenTrampoline imaginings–free!Those summer daysWay before I reached my teens. Bouncing to fly–high!Those summer dreamsWay before youth washed away. June till August scheming–please!Those summer ice creams,Long walks on the beach,Hiking trails through leafy trees,Swimming with lake fishOr, salty creatures from the sea. Tender dancing–glee!Those summer firefly nightsWay before autumn beckons–it’s sunshine and sherbetMemories to create for me. Try this: Close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths. Then, open your eyes and pause for another couple breaths as you look at this painting called, “Sunshine & Sherbet.” What do you notice about the perspective created in this piece? God, where in my life might You want me to find a new balance? Consider the title or the poem alongside this painting: Can you see the poem happening in the painting? What other stories do you see happening in the painting? God, what might You want to show me about the stories I tell myself about my life? Holy Spirit, thank You for guiding me in this time of prayer and contemplation. “Peach Fuzz & Fire”Original. Acrylic. Matted & Framed. 11 x 9 inches Become a Collector:Click Here to Purchase“Peach Fuzz & Fire” “Peach Fuzz & Fire” a painting and poem with spiritual reflection – Listen here & watch here. How did it get this title? I love peaches and their fuzzy squish. The edges of each of these squareish scrapes are not sharp–they have a gentle fuzz. The lift-off of paint is minor and creates just an edge of blue, like the spherical, though fuzzed edge of a peach. And, the colors are similar to peaches I’ve enjoyed eating. Oh–and, especially the top right square looks like flames to me! Something I love about this painting…is that it has orange and peach and dusty mauve colors. They weren’t colors, at the time of painting this piece, that I usually chose to include. But, when someone viewed an exhibit of mine, they shared an observation: Molly, you don’t really paint with orange, do you? I hadn’t realized! So, I started to introduce warmer colors and this is such a fun result! I also experimented by off-setting the scrapes: I love the experience of how the negative space changes. “Peach Fuzz & Fire”A Poem By: Molly Ovendengushing juicesof fruits in season,tapping toes giddyin queues eternal–that sweetness,so worth it,a delicious reason! oh, to eat them:these long-awaitedpeaches, drippingtastebud joy.encircled by friends,sharing slurps,laughing storiesaround a starry-skiedcrackling summer fireeveryone praysshan’t ever end… Try this: Take a couple of slow breaths to become present in this moment and invite Holy Spirit to come while you observe this painting, “Peach Fuzz & Fire.” What do you notice about the textures the paint makes in this piece? God, why am I drawn most to this particular type of texture? Consider the descriptions alongside the piece–what the artist loves and where the title comes from: How does connecting with the artist through her words create meaning as you experience this painting? God, where might I be longing for fire to be rekindled? Or extinguished? Abba, Father, thank You for loving me as I spend time seeking You now. Thank you! I am so grateful that you have taken time to look, listen, contemplate, sit with, reflect on, read this exhibition, “Contemplative Springs of Hope.” And my prayer is that you’d find a moment of Beauty that is an arrow of Hope for you.
SOLD – 2 June Sunshine SOLD “2 June Sunshine” by Molly Ovenden Original. Acrylic on Watercolor Paper. Unframed. Part of the “Scrapings” Collection. Approximate Dimensions:8 inches x 10 inches SOLDPurchase Another Piece of Original ArtBecome A Collector:Click Here How did it get its title? When I look at this painting, I see the gentle warmth of the start to mild Minnesota summer vacation days. Something I love about this painting is… I love how distinctly the lemon yellow, orange-yellow, and gold shimmer scraped together with cohesive shaping, but as separated colors. The scrapes are almost opposites. It feels really playful to me, like childhood best friends who are similar to each other, but different enough in personality to get along really well. *I love how well this piece works as part of a trio arrangement, together with “1 June Sunshine” and “3 June Sunshine.” Be the First to Know When New Art Becomes AvailableClick HereTo Gratefully Receive “Daily Art + Poetry Joy” to Brighten Your Inbox One more thing…(Here’s a draft of a little something I wrote, inspired by this piece.) “2 June Sunshine”By: Molly Ovenden reminiscent of school days ending,not soon enough to play outside,lingering in that edge of sunshine. a curious ray of light pretendingto hide till school children run free:laughing in that promise of summer. cloudless blue skies of peace lendingquiet reflection and celebrations,loitering in that golden beacon of solitude. a humorous splash of wave spendinga year in waiting–for you–to smile and play in childlike felicity,lounging in that brightness of gratitude. buoyant dreams of plans with friendingsands between each toe, jugs of lemonade,lingering in that horizon of simplicity. SOLDPurchase Another Piece of Original ArtBecome A Collector:Click HERE
Minty Mud Cake “Minty Mud Cake” by Molly Ovenden Original. Acrylic on Watercolor Paper. Unframed. Part of the “Scrapings” Collection. Approximate Dimensions:5.5 inches x 6 inches Become a Collector:Click HerePurchase This Original Art **Price of this original painting is $75 + tax + shipping.Please note:a) Shipping outside of the USA may be significant.b) Shipping costs will be billed and charged separately from purchase of original painting. How did it get its title?Oh, it just looks like an amazing chocolate cake with minty frosting. And the lift off of the paint on the right edge and bottom of this square squelches a sugary richness that makes my mouth shiver with its cocoa richness. It reminds me of the chocolate mints we used to get from a fancy restaurant–the ones individually wrapped in shiny, green foil. Also–it reminds me of playing in the mud after the rain and seeing the sky clear up through trees in my backyard. Something I love about this painting is…how many details there are–this piece can hold its own. Some squares I paint need to be partnered with an acrylic friend, but this beauty struck me as capable of independence. Plus also, my mouth is watering right now because the brown is such a good chocolate and I love that I know it’s paint, but how I still want to eat it. Be the First to Know When New Art Becomes AvailableClick HereTo Gratefully Receive “Daily Art + Poetry Joy” to Brighten Your inbox One more thing…(Here’s a little something I wrote, inspired by this piece.) “Minty Mud Cake”a piece by Molly Ovenden On the menu today:A fancy cake, homemade.A slice for all the guestsTo devour in cocoa paradiseIn their fancy dresses,Slurping bone chinaCups of black tea:Perfect match for this chocolateyCake of mint madnessInvigorating the senses–What?! Why does it taste of mud?Well, I’m five, and I madeThis for you–‘Member the rain last night? Become a Collector:Click HerePurchase This Original Art
Such Tall Trees as These “Such Tall Trees as These” by Molly Ovenden Original. Acrylic on Watercolor Paper. Unframed. Part of the “Scrapings” Collection. Approximate Dimensions:11 inches x 9 inches Become a CollectorClick HerePurchase This Original Art **Price of this original painting does not include tax + shipping.Please note:a) Shipping outside of the USA may be significant.b) Shipping costs will be billed and charged separately from purchase of original painting. How did it get its title?When I look at these streaks of paint, the way that the green opens up to brown reminds me of lying on my back and looking up the trunk of some old tree, mesmerized by the fluttering leaves in a gentle breeze. And I don’t really know what exactly that it is, but something feels old and draws me in with a sense of wonder that these have stood for and through the ages. Something I love about this painting is…the emerald green in the bottom right square. There’s something grounding in the left side with all of the brown gathering there–and then, the green lifts the right of the page. The varied lines of paint streaking in that bottom right square appear like light coming through a green, precious gem–and kind of like how sunlight comes translucent through leaves. It makes me feel hopeful. Be the First to Know When New Art Becomes AvailableClick HereTo Gratefully Receive “Daily Art + Poetry Joy” to Brighten Your inbox One more thing…(Here’s a draft of a little something I wrote, inspired by this piece.) “Such Tall Trees as These”a piece by Molly Ovenden Oh, what wondrous wisdomThese trunks have gleaned,And storms they’ve weathered:The sheen of their leavesAnnually renewing lusterFrom dews in springtimes fresh.Stretch tallest to heaven,Blue sky summers ofSelf-discovery, insightfulAdventures embarked upon,Beneath such tall trees as these.Oh, what warmth they could burn!Oh, what oxygen they give to breath!Centuries of roots dig deep,Generations of branches have leaned.But, what could be comingAs such trees like these reach?Perhaps their tall leavesInspire strength, resilience?How might they speak to me?What wisdom could be releasedIf I simply rested in the grassAnd listened patiently to:Such tall trees as these? Become a Collector:Click HerePurchase This Original Art
Tips To Consider When Choosing a Piece of Artwork “Tips To Consider When Choosing a Piece of Artwork (for Your Home or Office).” It’s super gross outside–dirty and grey in the days between Winter and Spring. The trees are still bare, and there’s no fresh snow. No flowers have bloomed. No street sweeper has cleared the detritus from the Winter Melt. It’s all monotone and blah. If you’re like me, you’re longing for color. That’s a huge reason I’m an artist. I bring Beauty and Joy into the world through my colorful, abstract original paintings. When we perceive beauty in the stained-glass-wings of a butterfly, in a loved one’s smile, in the curve of an old cedar tree, we feel Hope. And that’s what we need more of in this world–especially in the grey days after Winter. Choosing a piece of art can be an overwhelming task for some and a challenge to articulate what you actually are looking for to bring into your home or office. And, so much of art is an intangible aesthetic of subjective Beauty. Among many considerations to make, I want to share a few tips to help you choose artwork for your space. It’s helpful to consider whether you want an original or a print. Knowing what size of artwork you’d like and what size of space you have to fill is important, too. Considering the other items in your room is valuable to know how to coordinate a new piece might be necessary. Emotions play a role, too, and knowing how you want to feel when you experience the art can be considered.Because art can be such a personal experience, for some, knowing the artist is significant. And, for some collectors, the title of the artwork is important to be able to curate the story a room tells. Once considering these questions, you’re likely to have a clearer idea of what artwork to choose for your home or office. 1. Do you want an original piece of artwork or a print? Do you want to commission a piece from a local artist? When you choose an original piece of art, it can feel special to know that you are the only one in the world in all history and future who will have this exact piece in your home while you’re alive. The prestige, honor, and privilege of getting to commission a painting from an artist can feel valuable, too–not only are you the only one with a piece of art like this one, it was made especially for you. And, that’s super cool. Price can be a consideration of this, too. Original art can have a large price tag–as it should. Artists are skilled and talented at their work and need to be compensated as such. Because of this, and your available budget, you may choose to start by owning a print from an artist whose work you love, and then, save up to commission a piece later on. 2. What size of space do you have to fill? The size of space you have to display art is necessary to consider. I once painted something that I thought was big enough for a wall in an event venue, but the room dwarfed my painting. When I was in my studio, however, this painting was massive and filled my entire wall. Taking literal measurements with a tape measure–and writing them down–to have available when considering becoming a collector is important. Are you looking to fill one wall with a statement piece? Or, maybe you want to have a pop of color and story on multiple walls. Hanging a painting above your fireplace will work differently from hanging a piece on a nursery wall or in a hallway. Considering the space your new piece of artwork will live in is helpful information to share with the Artist when you commission a piece, too.) 3. What other items do you have in mind that might coordinate with the new piece of art? Interior designers know that each item in a room needs to function on its own, as well as in the presence of all of the other pieces. There’s a certain flow that encourages a feeling or experience in a space. Introducing new artwork to a space will likely change the dynamic and flow of that room–this may be why you are considering choosing artwork in the first place. Details like wall color and texture, whether or not you have bookshelves and what you put on them can have a significant impact on what type of art would be the most appealing in the room. Items like floral arrangements, framed photographs, other pieces of art, decorative vases or figurines can live on display alongside artwork, but may need rearranging. The style and size of furniture, the pattern, color, and texture of cushions can affect how art works in a space, too. Even seasonal and holiday decorations or cultural decor can play a part in choosing what artwork you’d like to collect and feature on your wall. 4. How do you want to feel when you look at the piece? Experiencing artwork is subjective and it’s important to know what you want to create your space to feel like. You may love a piece of art in an artist’s studio or on the walls of a gallery, but that’s a different type of space where it’s displayed. In your calm sitting room, what was bold and busy enough to stand out on a wall in a gallery may be too energetic in a space you want to feel restful. One of my favorite memories of meeting a collector of my paintings is meeting a woman in England who said she’d spent the last three years searching for a painting that could live on the hallway wall outside of her bedroom, so that she could wake up, see the Art, and feel happy to start her day. She held my painting, beaming with relief and joy that she’d finally found a solution to suit the Beauty she longed to experience daily. Perhaps you want art to have a calming effect. Maybe you also want to feel happy first thing in the morning. Or, you might want to feel energized. The subject matter could be important, too, and how you feel inspired by nature could help you choose a piece of art that helps you feel like you’re by the lake or hiking in the woods–even when you’re snuggled up on the sofa, reading. Other factors to consider: 5. For some, knowing who the artist is, and how you feel seeing their art and them plays an important role. You may choose artwork simply because it’s a memorable experience from having interacted with the artist. Sometimes the painting that hangs on the wall is a reminder of a place you loved being or the human who created it who made you smile, feel seen, or listened to, comforted in some way. 6. The titles of a piece can be important to you, too. For me, as a writer, I always intentionally title my paintings to tell the story that I see in the painting as a starting point. Knowing what story you want to tell in your home or office, or to remind yourself of, could be intriguing as you select artwork you love. 7. Do you want art from me, Molly Ovenden?An ongoing project I’m perpetually excited about:I write pieces of poetry or short prose or fiction to pair with my paintings which share the same title. When I name my paintings, I call them what I see. Sometimes they are simply like, “May” here and other times they are more complicated and involved like, “Late Night June–Almost Seeing the Moon Between These Trees” here. I love bringing the viewer into the world of color and beauty I create in my paintings. So, I choose to write the poetry and stories behind the paint. Once you’ve considered these questions, you’ll have a good foundation to approach a gallery or local artist to make an informed decision about becoming a collector and owning art you love and that you are proud to display on your walls. To see the artwork I have available, visit my gallery shop online here. And to follow along with the creativity joy in my studio and behind my typewriter–you can be the first to know when new paintings become available by signing up here. Thank you so much for reading this article and for following along my creative journey. I’m so glad you’re here!
1 July Heat “1 July Heat” by Molly Ovenden Original. Acrylic on Card. Unframed. Part of the “Scrapings” Collection. Approximate Dimensions:7.5 inches x 9.5 inches3 inches x 3 inches (each square “scraping”) Click Here to Purchase “1 July Heat” How did it get its title?When I look at this painting, I see the blazing hot sun of July that shoots to the top of the sky in the peak summer days. What do I love out this piece?I love the way the gold metallic in the top left shimmers bright and hot–even looking at it feels like I need to wear sunglasses! And I also love how, especially in the top scrape, the colors streak downward in a gentle wiggle that reminds me of the mirage of heat haze on those mid-summer hot days. It’s cool, too, how solid the edges of each scrape are: the negative space is unbroken so each scrape pops out toward the viewer. Click Here – Be the first… I’d love to invite you to my Gratitude, Art + Poetry Joy Email list, so that you can be the first to know when new art becomes available for collectors to own.
1 April Showers “1 April Showers” by Molly Ovenden Original. Acrylic on Card. Unframed. Part of the “Scrapings” Collection. Approximate Dimensions:7.5 inches x 9.5 inches3 inches x 3 inches (each square “scraping”) Click Here to Purchase “1 April Showers” How did it get its title?When I look at this painting, I see the ugly remnants of Minnesota winters–all of the grit, salt, gravel, and collection of random stuff that’s abandoned in snowbanks till spring. I see the giant piles of snow remaining on the end of the driveway next to the spring flowers which have begun blooming and the green grass waking up from its frozen hibernation. What do I love out this piece?I love the variety of pink textures, the way the yellow pushes through the darker colors, and how the negative space creates a hush of color that feels clean, like the yet-untouched snow from one of the last “winter weather advisory” days of the season alongside the first spring rains that melt the remaining snow, exposing what happened in the winter. There’s so much color and movement in this piece–it feels like the excitement of finally not being cooped up in your house after months of sub-zero and unending snowfall. Click Here – Be the first… I’d love to invite you to my Gratitude, Art + Poetry Joy Email list, so that you can be the first to know when new art becomes available for collectors to own.
3 Reasons a Campfire Keeps a Child’s Learning Fresh There’s something mesmerizing about a campfire. You can stare at the flames for hours as they move over the logs, crackling, and preparing themselves for the best space for roasting marshmallows. When it’s safe to have a campfire this summer, it can be a memorable time with family, friends, and children over the summer. Campfires and nature inspire curiosity and connection, both of which are gifts for our own lifelong learning and for any students or children in our lives, too. There are many reasons why campfires contribute toward fresh and continual learning. Three of those of are: one, campfires allow us to get outside with a purpose; two, campfires are great places for culinary experimentation, and three, campfires inspire storytelling and sharing. Get outside (with a purpose) Sometimes we tell children simply to go outside and expect them to explore or not get into any trouble, but if they’re used to being inside all the rest of the year, it can be overwhelming. Interacting with nature can be a naturally freeing activity. Having a bonfire together with friends or family provides a bridge between being active and having a purpose. A) While you are outside, you can practice identifying trees based on the type of wood or bark (or by the leaves of nearby trees) you’ll use to build the fire. B) Keeping curiosity alive through tree identification can also happen by collecting textures of trees or leaves, or by following inspiration in the area around where the campfire later will be burning. You can simply use a crayon and cheap copier paper to capture wax relief textures. The paper can later be used as a fire starter or saved for inspiration. C) Developing a healthy respect of fire, learning about the environment and the impact fire has on the earth is an opportunity for learning, too, this summer. Researching news stories or scientific research at the library or online can engage lifelong learning this summer, all inspired simply by a campfire. You can even learn how to build the most efficient fire. 2. Culinary experimentation (s’mores and more!) A) It can be fun to go shopping for bonfire snacks. Maybe a child picks out a new snack or treat that they are unfamiliar with (and adults can do this, too!). Researching how to prepare the snack or its cultural origins can be educational and entertaining. Who knows? Maybe wasabi peas will become a firm favorite among family and friends, but only while you’re sitting around the fire. B) S’mores are delicious! Gooey marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker. Why mess with a good thing? Because it can be really fun to experiment with different flavor combinations! Maybe you try a chocolate candy bar that has caramel or nuts in it and melt that with your marshmallow. Perhaps your favorite cookie would be a winning combination to replace the graham crackers. It could be a fun tradition of curiosity pairing flavors around the campfire. 3. Storytelling (and sharing) A) As an author an avid reader, I’m always going to recommend getting to the library and being amongst books. What if you start a tradition among family and friends to read poetry or a book of myths, fables, legends? Being in the library among real, physical books, whether they are graphic novels, chapter books, memoirs, or audio books…these stories real and imagined provoke curiosity. So, spend time in the library and check out books that intrigue you. When someone is interested, they’re more likely to learn and stay curious in life. And then read a story aloud to each other. B) Tell stories, too! There is a magical truth-telling quality to time reclining near the fire. The warmth, the flickering, can open up a desire for relational connection. Developing a family culture in which you ask questions about life and experiences and childhood memories is a powerful platform upon which to build healthy family memories together. C) And when someone asks you questions, allowing yourself to be honest about what’s important to you can be a gift to your loved ones resting by the fire with you. Discussing meaningful topics in a safe space invites lifelong learning when curiosity is rewarded with openness. There are so many more ways that a campfire can promote lifelong learning with a child or student and their family. Fires in a safe enclosed environment paired with some type of learning or relational engagement help keep the summers interesting. When adults make this creative pursuit a habit, it’s easy to have a natural curiosity rub off onto a child or student in their midst.
3 Gentle Habits for Reflection Watch or Listen to “3 Gentle Habits of Reflection” Hi there! As we approach the year end, I want to share some gentle reflective habits to help you finish strong, confident, and just as you are now. You may find journaling works well for you, so feel free to take notes to reflect on or journal on more later as this season passes. 🙂 3 Gentle Habits of Reflection: 1. What are you proud of? 2. What surprised you? 3. What are you taking with you to the next season? And…new things are coming to BECOME the Writer 2023! So, watch this space, everyone! For more information about my coaching and membership services, please visit: http://mollyovenden.com/coaching/