the heat is getting to me....storms continue to prevail

I have been collecting information about accountants...lawyers for limited liability corporation developed... information about whether 501 3 C non profits would be more applicable? Oh what a tangled web we weave when we begin a new avenue down a totally different business plan? I also went to look and examine surplus furniture for my small office even though the previous renters took out the counter top I was praying for a chance to recoup and reinstall for my general usage. I then went to our Goodwill thrift shop and discovered a pretty nice library table and an end table complete with beveled glass inserts. They will work perfectly under the remaining oak cabinets so I am on my way to organization for this small intimate space.

I came home to assemble my forensic science workshop for next week where I will thumbprint flowers... stamp "Identity"....color crayon portraits that will be heat transferred onto fabric...to stamp, swirl and splatter with acrylics ...then finalize with simple stitches. Lyn will also be working with sun prints with collected "evidence" collected from the surrounding courtyard grounds. I will be working with a young painter Hayley Lavender...I met with her yesterday and decided to install her first solo exhibit at the end of August in the central gallery outside my studio space for about six weeks. She is just as lovely as her name...lavender is soothing and she is a gentle spirit eager to learn new processes. She needs to perform 40 hours of community service for her school requirements so why not do what you love and love what you do. I am hoping the weather cools a wee bit down ...but we will do what we are meant to do...create an example of forensic artwork :O). I found a small table top ironing board which will be perfect for our portraits and the heat transfer...we are going to have so much FUN!

Tomorrow Ken and I will attend calling hours for my dear friend Matthew. They are planning to have a local service on Friday morning here in Newark and then his family will have a celebration of his life in his hometown in California. I can not express the sadness that I am carrying in my heart and my body. I am asking myself what Matthew taught us all in his very short life and it comes to making every day count and move forward. Never be afraid to take a risk to do what you love and love what you do. Our community theater is moving forward with its production of the Miracle Worker...that is what my dear friend would have wanted. I carry you in my heart Matthew...your courage...your energy...your passion for the Arts.

I spoke to over 30 persons in the gallery about the stories and narratives that inspired my quilts...90 minutes of intense dialogue...I was totally spent but I felt honored to have so many interested in what I am doing with my stitches. I came home to ideas for small books to make and display in my studio space. The name of my studio is still cooking on the back burner but even though this is exhausting in developing a business plan and lay out and possible color selections for the walls that are exposed brick...any ideas out there? I know white is always ...blah blah blah...but I want a warm inviting energetic color for the few walls available. I will be 60 in September and this is my birthday gift to myself...now or never so keep me in your prayers. Imagine and Live in Peace, Mary Helen Fernandez Stewart

my new space... bare bones but so much promise and great light and a great location!!!

the first group in my gallery tour... two groups more arrived at the end of over 90 minutes....