If you follow me on Pinterest, you know that I do a lot of studio-coveting.  I spend a ridiculous amount of time daydreaming about a large, light-filled space out in the country.  This dream studio is preferably beside a creek or river. 

I would also *settle* for this location.

The dream studio is also well-organized - a gorgeous, streamlined space that is well considered and tidy.   Like this...

NOT this...

This space also comes with an endless amount of storage, of course!  

I have been racking my brain on how to improve our small, in-home studio.  I am very grateful for the space that I do have, but with both Derek and myself working/storing in there, it is simply not large enough.  No amount of organizing and space-saving will do.  So.  We are considering taking down the wall that currently separates our master bedroom from our office and turning it into one room - our new studio!  We will be moving our bedroom into our current studio.  It will be cramped, but it's a sacrifice that Derek and I are willing to make.  (Who needs a large room to sleep in, anyway??)  On the other hand, we absolutely DO need a bigger space to create in, and I am so excited about the possibilities the larger room would provide!

Along with being a graphic designer and artist, Derek is also a great writer (he will hate that I’m saying this, but it’s true!). Recently Derek has written a parable titled “The Country King”.  I liked it so much that we both agreed he have it put together into a little book to share with others. 

Derek says of the book: 
    The Country King is a short parable that I wrote several years ago and have recently combined with the beautiful paintings of my wife, Lauren Adams. It follows the story of a youth from the countryside and his journey to the city where his kingdom awaits.  The parable explores the theme of potential -  how that potential is perceived by the boy and by others.

Originally, Derek had created a book that also incorporated a selection of short poems and haiku he had also written to be included with the parable.  This version had illustrations which he had created digitally.  Then he decided that he wanted to have a new version that presented “The Country King” on its own.  Derek asked if I would select works on paper to be integrated into the new edition. Of course, I was super excited about the idea and I decided on the selected paintings.  We found a new place to self-publish the book that offered a great variety of options. The parable also comes as an ebook and hardback, depending on your reading preference.  We have a copy of the teeny tiny format -- which is just perfect! 

Why don't you have a look at the preview?

music (c) The Avett Brothers

So much thanks to everyone who attended the reception, spent time with the work, asked questions, or purchased paintings! Derek and I totally appreciate it - we especially love sharing our work with students. Thanks everybody!

Tonight there will be an opening reception for the 3 person show I am participating in along with Martha Neaves and Derek Overfield. It is at the Sleeth Gallery at WV Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, WV. If you have never been to the Sleeth Gallery and are in the area, be sure to stop by (it really is a lovely space). The reception is from 4:30-6:00 pm followed by a Gallery Talk by all three artists. If you love power point presentations (who doesn't?), both Martha and I will be including one in our talk - I promise not to bored you! And there will be refreshments. We would love to see you there!