July/August/September

2010

Exhibition Update

The opening for the exhibition that I've been diligently working towards is truly just around the corner. October 1st may seem somewhat distant, but all of the details pertaining to documentation, crating, shipping, and the installation are voraciously consuming nearly all of my workweek hours, but fortunately, I'm getting some wonderful assistance with many of the project particulars so I can still find time to develop the artwork.

The final photographs will be snapped during the first week of August, and the catalog will be heading to press shortly thereafter. I'll send out an announcement when the printing is complete. The full-color catalog with forward texts by Richard Andrews and Mark Anderson will be available at the exhibition and on the Broel Studio store. Currently, an overview of the show, including a video interview and selected works can be viewed online at broelstudio.com/nexus.

Most of the works for the show are completed (save some minor details such as varnishing, wax coatings and a bit of gold leafing), and I'm very pleased with the quality and mix of pieces that will be included. A couple of new inclusions incorporate blown glass with hand-painted fabric backgrounds. I've been contemplating the mix for a number of years now, and feel that this is the right combination for the pending installation. In these works, a couple of the mediums that I've used often in the past are drawn together to create a powerful expression of the balance between strength and fragility. Images with details will be available for viewing online once the exhibition opens.

Wine & Art

The 2007 Artisan Blend from Foundry Vineyards is an elegant bottle of wine. I'm not a winemaker, but I've been interested in the creation of wines for a very long time so I was thrilled when I was asked to help develop the this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc, which features one of my cast aluminum and glass sculptures on the label. This wine is drinking very well now and has the structure to last for many years to come. It's a perfect pairing for the art and wine lover. This "Wine & Art" package could be a great conversation starter at your next dinner party.

If you're interested in learning more about the wine or would like to place an order please visit foundryvineyards.com. When you place your order, please include a note that you read about this in my newsletter, and I'll be sure to hand sign each of the bottles for you.

The Broel Studio store is up and running for your art collecting and gift purchasing convenience. So, if you aren't planning a trip to Walla Walla any time soon or won't be able to attend any upcoming exhibitions of my work, this is a great place to find original paintings, sculptures, unique art objects, prints and art-cards. You can make your purchases online through the secure point of sale service center, or please feel free to contact me regarding additional payment options. Each quarter I'll be posting different pieces on the site that will be available for purchase, so be sure to check back regularly. Visit my online store: broelstudio.com/store.

Roots in Rich Soil

Many of you know that I enjoy working in my garden. Admittedly, I am not an accomplished gardener, but over the years I've figured some things out, and am trying to learn more about the process with each new season.

One thing I've learned recently from casual conversations with Rick Small, and previously from watching my father tend our family garden is that the building and replenishing of nutrients in the soil is absolutely critical. The addition of organic matter, with its slow, natural decomposition gives the soil the nutrients needed to nourish the plants year in and year out. Rich, deep soil will encourage strong roots and robust growth. Obviously, in addition to the soil, other elements, namely sun and water, are needed - but at this point I'm interested in the metaphorical aspect inherent to the soil and rooting.

This facet of gardening has caused me to consider the "soil" that nourishes my personal life with its outgrowth of creativity. The nature of this place that I call home, complete with its rich history, and ever expanding possibilities has provided a fertile ground from which I've been able to grow. I have gathered a rich mix of experiences here in this rural valley that have become the nutrients that feed my life and creativity. When I moved back to Walla Walla seventeen years ago, I thought it was only a temporary stopover on my way to bigger and better experiences. In hindsight I'm not sure what more I could have asked for. My roots have been strengthened and supported through a beautifully woven web of inspirational relationships that are specific to this place, and my experiences here in this down-to-earth community continue to provide the necessary sustenance that supports the fruits of my creativity.

If we are open to learning, even the seemingly mundane tasks in life, such as tilling and amending soil, can offer beneficial insights into our personal lives. My garden and my community continue to offer me gifts that help to round out and balance my life.