Isolation Series: Scanning the Horizon

"Scanning the Horizon"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

My heart is heavy as I look out on the world this day. I grieve with others around the globe for those who have been so tragically wounded. In a season of incredible hardship, when we speak so often of caring for each other and loving well, senseless, cruel violence still goes on. Oh, God! I cast my eyes up and ask: “where does our help come from?” I look out toward the bend in the creek and as I pray for the world to heal the words of Saint Francis come to mind. “Make me a channel of your peace...”

Isolation Series: Threading a Needle

"Threading a Needle"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

In art history I briefly studied the Bayeux Tapestry, an 11th century Norman Romanesque embroidery. Stretching nearly 230 ft long, the work is a continuous narrative depicting events leading up to the Norman conquest of England. I imagine the countless hours, threads, ideas, and hands that laboured to create such a lasting story: fascinating! The images of threads being woven, sewn, and embroidered together lead me to ponder how life’s events and experiences shape mine. It is a challenge to see what will come of all these threads, but I like looking and creating. So, I pick up a needle, and with hands that feel all thumbs, and eyesight that needs assistance, I gather up the threads and proceed.

Isolation Series: "Perfeck"

"Perfeck"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

When I was making something out of this scribbled shape all I could think of was the perfect non-hairstyles of 2020. In the ‘90’s, a British TV show “The Darling Buds of May” aired. Actor David Jason started as Pop Larkin. (A very young Catherine Zeta-Jones also stars in the show.) Pop has this endearing way of saying perfect: “perfeck” - hence my title. It feels like a fitting response to all of us who groan about our shaggy heads in need of a haircut: “You look perfeck!” Indeed we do!  

Isolation Series: Paddling About

"Paddling About"
11x14 mixed media on paper

My husband and I like to kayak on the creek. We reference our excursion by the number of turtles we spot: “That was a twelve turtle paddle,” we say. We always see at least one turtle. Apart from counting turtles we notice how the trees are leafing out and how many the beaver has felled on the opposite bank. We see where the herons land when they move away from our stationary land point. On the creek we have fresh eyes as we paddle about. The familiar landscape is suddenly new and we are explorers. Our paddles dip and stir the sparkling waters, composing aqueous music, that restores body and soul.

Isolation Series: Spring Line-up

"Spring Line-up"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

A few days ago I wrote about spying a solo pair of Canada geese. That not-so-solo pair have been spotted again in the full sunshine of a day in May. (I think I understand why they were cavorting at sundown.) Between mother goose and protective papa a healthy brood of goslings - numbering nine – gently paddled past our view of the creek. Mother proudly led the bright offspring parade and father loudly announced their arrival, bringing up the rear. I do enjoy this daily nature show; I’ve yet to see reruns.

Isolation Series: Picking a Tune

"Picking a Tune"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

My drawing today comes courtesy of a friend. While visiting outdoors on the weekend, we discussed the joy of music, for ourselves and in sharing with others. It is no surprise a guitarist emerged from the lines he left behind. The magic of a good tune evokes so many responses: it inspires, consoles, energizes, dispels bad moods, helps us cry, sets toes to tapping, and voices to humming and singing along. In spite of isolation and physical distancing music can be listened to and shared in the most creative ways. 

Isolation Series: Wood Violets

"Wood Violets"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

The forest floor is sprinkled with purple confetti: the wood violets are in bloom. On my forest walks I have observed a multitude of these little plants growing out of old tree stumps and fallen logs. Nature is wonderful: what once was enriches the present. Fodder for growing; food for thought.

Isolation Series: I Spy a Goose

"I Spy a Goose"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

Canada geese use the creek behind us as a rest stop during their migration. It is a marvel to see how many can fit on the narrow creek in early March. These days, I hear them flying overhead in ones or twos, rarely as a flock, and seldom do they stop at the creek. But the last two evenings a pair of geese has descended to the creek just as the sun is setting. They preen and splash and have quite a conversation. It is lovely to catch the sparkle of water dripping from outstretched wings and to glimpse their liquid shadows undulating in the silvery pool.

Isolation Series: Lamentation

"Lamentation"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

Some days I want to howl at the moon. As a response to the acute grief of some dear friends this drawing emerged. Many people are struggling with death, dying, and loss in this Covid-19 season. The social and physical challenges of this pandemic complicate their lives on so many levels. I observe their sorrow, weep with them, and ache for their angsts. I cannot hug them, and that is a frustrating reality. I can offer my ears, my prayers, love, and support. And when they weep, I weep with them.

To those in the midst of suffering may you know you are not alone.

Isolation Series: Red Onion, Mango and Apple

"Red Onion, Mango and Apple"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

I’m not sure why these three subjects appeared today. Sometimes my scribbles take me on unexpected adventures. Red onion, mangoes and apples make me think of chutney. Chutney makes me think of the yum factor when combining unusual fruits and vegetables. Unusual mixes make me think of families and friendships, and communities, and then on to our country. We are delightful as individuals but when blended together an unexpected richness of shared experience enhances our lives. Sharing life is a good gift, especially in a pandemic.

Isolation Series: Tea and Trilliums

"Tea and Trilliums"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

This has been a quiet day. A day for tea with the woodland trilliums. Some days are like that - especially after a long weekend, or just because they happen to be the first day of another pandemic week. Here’s to cups of comfort and nature’s cheering for difficult days.

Isolation Series: Finding Rainbows

"Finding Rainbows"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

Searching for wildflowers along the shores of the creek has brought unexpected joy: a sparkle of glassy green, amber, and blue. The remains of an old farm tip perhaps, but a happy discovery nonetheless. Suddenly, I am on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean combing for sea glass. Who knew these stone-cloaked shores had earthy pockets of treasure? I fill a whole bucket with shards of rainbow.

Isolation Series: Birdbath

"Birdbath"

11x14 marker and pen on paper

The birdbath in the garden is in use. Robins and grackles bathe most frequently. Blue jays like to share it with their kin: bobbing and hopping in and out. They make a happy show of it. The red-winged blackbird, more reticent, prefers the privacy of the reedy creek shallows for bathing but on rare occasions he visits our modern garden pool. That dazzling flash of red is a vibrant accent to the emerging green of spring.

Isolation Series: A Glimpse of Water

"A Glimpse of Water"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

A glimpse of water helps keep me afloat in the midst of life’s current challenges. At the creek, liquid music fills my soul, smoothing rough edges. I am restored through trickle and flow, silver and splash.

Isolation Series: Still Life

"Still Life"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

A “bitty” supper we call it: fresh bread, fruit, cheese, oil, and olives; an impromptu collection of savory bits. Often, the little offerings become a sumptuous repast. We bring glasses to fill with wine and share an ordinary communion of comfort and company.

Isolation Series: Creek Reeds and Ripples

"Creek Reeds and Ripples"
11x14 mixed media on paper

On sun-filled mornings I head to the creek early. I sit upon a rock to watch a living poem: every visit a new verse. The creek levels are dropping quickly; submerged rocks now protrude offering turtles a warm perch on which they sunbathe. If startled, they make pleasant soft plops dropping back into the creek.   Two mallards have nested on the      opposite shore. A dozen mergansers have been the newest visitors. They dine and court on the creek while herons fish for breakfast among the reeds. Sometimes a muskrat glides by, creating a soft wake with a stick gripped in its mouth. In the trees on the banks and overhanging the waters a winged chorus is being sung. And along the shore, last years’ reeds wave a final salute from the silvery ripples. Here on the busy, quiet banks of the creek, I am immersed in poetry, prayer, and peace. 

Isolation Series: Making Bread

'Making Bread"
11x14 mixed media on paper

Oh, the power of suggestion! I heard our Premier discussing baking on the news yesterday. It made me laugh out loud and helped me out of a Covid-19 isolation funk. So, here is my “grandmother” - making bread, no less. I have fond memories of her, her kitchen, and the aroma of bread baking in a wood stove. It is an image of childhood comfort. I even have her hand written recipe. Wishing you all comfort this day.

Isolation Series: Daffs

"Daffs"
11x14 mixed media on paper

Thank goodness for the colours of spring flowers! I picked a few stems of “sunshine” for mothers, daughters, and sisters everywhere. May your day be blessed. Happy Mother’s Day!

Isolation Series: Spring Snowsuits

"Spring Snowsuits"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

We are having crazy weird weather! Yesterday I awoke to snow on the ground. Today, snow squalls and mini blizzards blow in and out. I confess, I stuck my tongue out at yesterday’s snow but then curiosity got the better of me and I ventured out onto my deck in my slippers. The snow underfoot was the texture of tiny styrofoam balls. My grandchildren might see the snow and talk excitedly of playing outside: “Can we wear our snowsuits?”
Oh, to have the perspective of children when it snows in May.

Isolation Series: Hawk

"Hawk"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

I saw a hawk capture a black squirrel. The sight of the hawk, so frightening; so fierce, and so beautiful with its talon clutch of black fur fascinated me. Because the songbirds have returned so have the Hawks. The sky is often streaked with smaller birds chasing off larger birds or filled with their warning cries, especially now that they are guarding their nests. The hawk seems fearless, relentless, and certain of its' next meal. I cheer for the songbirds, but the hawk is beautiful too. Such a wild world surrounds us. 

Isolation Series: A Bird's-eye View

A Bird's-eye View
11x14 marker and ink on paper

The trees behind our home are flush with activity and noise.  The songbirds are hard at it: nesting, singing; vying for territory, protective.  My mornings begin with their songs, typically delightful - unless it’s a repetitive crow “caw” or a blue jay’s rusty blast. I watch these birds as I drink my first coffee, wonder at their survival skills, and marvel at their constant activity.  I only notice doves resting. (Do the others?) My take away from my early morning, foggy-eyed glances of the backyard birds is that of adopting a bird’s-eye view as time carries on. New perspectives always help.

Isolation Series: Aubergine, Avocado, and a Butternut Squash

"Aubergine, Avocado, and a Butternut Squash"
11x14 marker and ink on paper

These are humble jewels on my counter. Their sensuous lines, varied textures, unique flavours, and cooking aromas are unusual gifts. They nourish not only my body but also my creative eye, and my soul that seeks to find joy in the ordinary, whilst living in a pandemic.

Isolation Series: Woodland Grown

"Woodland Grown"
11x14 marker & ink on paper

Near the water’s edge and in the woods tiny enchanting flowers are appearing. Trilliums, Dogwood Violets, and Marsh Marigolds to name a few, are the first to bloom in the sun-streaked dampness. With the unwelcome polar vortex paying us another visit these little pops of colour brighten colder days. Unique, intricate, wild, and hardy: a reminder of survival in spite of the odds.

Isolation Series: Rapunzel's Resignation

"Rapunzel's Resignation"
11x14 marker & ink on paper

I’m taking liberties here. I need a haircut. Fairy tales and glamorous “kept” princess aside, I do feel resigned to these social isolation predicaments.

Isolation Series: Spring Revelry

"Spring Revelry"
11x14 marker & ink on paper

Mother Earth dances with abandon in spring’s renewal.

A friend of mine recently suggested we long for the sun more than ever with the absence of physical contact. The last two days have been sun-filled and so warm. I have spent most of my time outdoors on my deck or in the garden. Indeed, I feel like I have been given an enormous solar hug.

Isolation Series: To Plant a Garden

"To Plant A Garden"
11x14 marker & ink on paper

Today is my day to plant all the cool weather seeds: lettuces, spinach, radish, etc. The sun continues to bless with warmth, the greening trees with energy, and the hope of good food growing reminds me of the good, good life surrounding me still.

Isolation Series: The Greening of the Trees

"The Greening of the Trees"
11x14 marker & ink on paper

My first glance outside today reveals the greening of the trees - not only the trees, but shrubs, lawns, meadows, and even standing reeds in the creek. All the rain we’ve had has been soaked up and life is emerging. I can forgive the still overcast day with it’s grey hue when I see spring green. Someday soon, I will sit under the shade of the trees and breathe in summer but for now, the greening of the trees is the colour of hope. May all who wait be infused with spring green today.