Andrea Pramuk | Art Studio

Five quick and cosmic things

2012-02-17T10:30:00.000-06:00

Tonight's blog is a bit of a quickie, lots of news to share with some hot links around the planet for you, my friends. Doing my best to blanket the earth with art lately. I am officially in orbit around a few events and happenings coming up in and around Austin.

I launched a new set of prints:
First, I am particularly excited to announce that today, I launched a set of prints of my work through the thoughtfully curated website artmuse.com, who does professional, archival quality printing and framing at an affordable price. I can tell you, the prints are beautiful. More than you would ever want to know about me and links to the prints for sale can be found in this blog/interview I did here. Also, below is a quick overview of pricing if you're interested in purchasing a large print, so you too can live artfully:

Print: $25 / $75 / $200+
Framed: $135 / $220 / $395+
Free U.S. shipping for all framed prints

I'm talkin' 'bout brushes:
I was also recently interviewed by Karyn Meyer-Berthel, blogger for both Ampersand and Dynasty Brush Co. My technical side comes out more here where I talk about the brushes I use and this interview is a bit more technique oriented, without divulging any of my top secret art material tricks.

Trees of Life are going up for auction this Sat:

This Saturday night, February 18th, from 6-9P, one of my Trees of Life will be auctioned off at the ACT Invitational Exhibition happening in Round Top, Texas at the Sterling McCall Event Center. A bit of a hike out of town at 1 to 1.5 hours, but sure to be a beautiful show, hundreds of artists and a lively event to raise money for arts education in rural Texas. Tickets are $35 each. More details here.

Sterling McCall Event Center

4212 State Highway 237

Round Top, Texas 78954

6:00-9:00PM

Who's been sleeping in my bed?:

Gosh and then coming up March 3rd, I will have two small paintings on display at the Lytle Pressley Gallery here in Austin at The Goldilocks Show, in collaboration with Austin Art Connections. The exhibition will be on display from March 3-11 at the Lytle Pressley Contemporary, 1214 W. 6th St, Austin, TX 78703. The Facebook invite and more information can also be found here.

Going, going, Group Hug! almost gone:

Up through Feb 24 at the Pump Project Flex Space, I have four small paintings installed in a beautifully curated show by Jaime Salvador Castillo, please try and make it by before the show comes down. I did a quick video tour for friends and family out of town below. More information and directions can be found on the Facebook invite here.

What's happening in the studio, you say?

I finally gave up trying to keep my studio clean for all the 'lookie loos' coming to see our house and went ahead and started some larger paintings. Already the new trees look and feel to me like Louisiana and home, or I could just be missin' me some Mardi Gras with my friends. I think that's a good start either way. No butterflies appearing anywhere else yet, but then again, spring is just around the corner. Many thanks for your love and support, I could not do any of this without you.

Butterflies and the Number 5

2012-01-05T10:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome back, happy new year, how the heck are you? What a fine time for a new blog post. So far this year, I've embraced butterflies and the number 5. Yes, I admit it, I did not post a blog in December and yes, things have been busy, but that's no excuse. I did get wrapped up and all consumed by my awesome experience at E.A.S.T. which you can read about in the past few posts if you'd like or you can watch my video debut here. I would not trade that experience for anything, what a frickin' blast! Go if you have not attended and show your work however you can if you're an artist. I am currently accepting proposals for space in 2012 if anyone would like to host me and my paintings this coming year, just sayin'. Really, call me....

I have lots of news to share and now more time than ever to spend on the blog. This is good and bad news. We have decided to sell our house in January for some much needed downsizing and because we'd rather be making art and music, which means my studio is off limits until we sell and move. So, I'm going to talk about what I'd like to do for now until I get into a new space to keep the momentum going.

The overwhelming consensus from everyone at E.A.S.T. was that I need to make bigger work and that's what I intend to do - full time job and chaotic life or not. The dozens of tiny paintings I produced over the last year were, in essence, studies in materials to help me work through developing a language to express things I see and feel that I can't necessarily communicate otherwise. With these new works, I've been dealing with issues like the massive oil spill in the Gulf, the death of a close friend, my father's stroke - all things that have made me question my existence and my relationship to the universe and how we all might transcend space and time to connect. How do you deal with things that are so much bigger than yourself? The newer paintings I've been making of trees I think are the closest I've been able to come to visually expressing something like "runner's high" or a feeling of weightlessness and movement - similar also to the creative space one might enter while making art or running for long periods of time. I've been affectionately referring to these works as "morphine paintings" because like morphine, they deal with issues of pain, but have a certain disconnect like the experience of being uprooted, weightless or out-of-body. Lots of or little color, puddles, smoke, blood and tentacle-like branches or veins weaving throughout tiny spaces that read as infinitely large, even celestial. Heavy stuff, yes? I find it all very fascinating and an endless source of material. I am easily finding connections with a number of other things that also need exploring, but I'll save that for another post. Today, I respond most to the tree imagery because they are so grounded and human-like in shape, but still reach for the sky and dance through space and survive in all the various elements - tenacious. They are the perfect creation for earth and also for making paintings because they lend themselves so well to abstraction.

After years of exploring these ideas with various materials, I have settled on using Ampersand Claybord™ for my surface and watercolor, alcohol inks, oil glazes and Gamblin cold wax medium as shown in Tree of Life No. 4 shown above. Tree of Life No. 4 was an accident and a breakthrough in many ways. I invite you to see it for yourself in person next month in Round Top, Texas at the ACT (Artists Changing Tomorrow) Exhibition and Auction to benefit the arts in rural Texas. I set up a FB Invitation here.

Here is another one of the trees before I go. This one is called Tree of Life No. 3 and is 8"x8"x3/4" that went to a good home during E.A.S.T.

I hope everyone is having a great start to the new year...here's to 2012, butterflies and the number 5; my recurring themes over the past few days. Be on the lookout for yours, you might be surprised at what you find.

Fisterra Studio Stop #8, a video blog

2011-11-14T11:00:00.000-06:00

Today, I was able to take a few minutes and do a quick video documentary of my show up at Fisterra Studio for the East Austin Studio Tour. Mostly, I thought my folks would like a video tour since they could not make it for the show, but then realized that this might be a bit of fun for all. Plus, all of the artists' work is exceptional. This video really sums up my experience thus far at the tour (at least when things were slow) and gives you a tiny glimpse into what living in Austin is kind of like ;). Feel free to share this video with your friends. There's only one more weekend for the tour, I hope you can make it out on November 19th or 20th from 11A - 6P. I am proud to be showing with such a fantastic group of artists and thankful to my gracious hostess, Jennifer Chenoweth. I am having a blast!

Participating Artists:
--Jennifer Chenoweth--
--Andrea Pramuk--
--Annie Simpson--
--Brooke M Davis--
--Felice House--
--Judith Simonds--
--Richard Mansfield--
--Wells Mason--
--Sebastian Miles--
--Erik Tragus--

E.A.S.T. Stop #8

2011-11-08T10:30:00.000-06:00

My Mother's Sweater is over my

shoulder at the EAST hub show.

Howdy friends and family, this will probably be my last post for the next two weeks while I get ready to rock the East Austin Studio Tour. There's plenty of excitement happenin' roun' these parts lately and I hope you'll join me at some of these groovy art events coming up.

The East Austin Studio Tour, a free, self-guided tour of local East Austin studios and exhibition spaces, begins this week with a preview party hosted by Art Alliance Austin on Thursday, November 10 from 7–10 pm + after party at the old Goodwill building at 916 Springdale Rd where the hub show is during the tour (I also have work installed there). The party includes several stops, including Fisterra Studio (where the bulk of my work is), with bites, drinks and music. You can still purchase tickets on the Art Alliance site for $55 each + $10 for the after party. This is a guaranteed good time!

If you can't make or shell out the $$$ for the Preview Party, the E.A.S.T. main event is Saturday and Sunday, two weekends, 11 am–6 pm all four days: November 12 & 13, November 19 & 20, and is free and open to the public. Fisterra Studio is stop #8, and is not to be missed this year. In fact, we are listed as one of the top 10 stops on Culture Map. Jennifer serves up her famous posole and serves beer while it lasts. Bring some dollars because Pie Fixes Everything will have dessert for sale. If you plan on purchasing artwork during EAST, it's probably a good idea to bring cash or your checkbook. A number of studios will have access to Paypal or SquareUp, but don't count on it.

Here's a sneak preview of some of my work you'll see at Fisterra, click here.

Jennifer Chenoweth also has two new pieces at the Wells Mason Gallery at 727 Airport Road (entrance off Levander Loop) along with Wells Mason, Virginia Fleck, Andrew Anderson, Monique Capanelli, Larry Graeber, and Jim Huntington. Open the same hours as the E.A.S.T. tour and #29 in the events section of the E.A.S.T. catalog.

Thursday, November 17 is Pecha Kucha Night Austin #12 with an amazing lineup. The event is at 916 Springdale from 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm in a great space where the E.A.S.T. hub art show is hanging. Presenters include Katy Vine, Robert Kraft, Connie Arismendi, Bale Creek Allen, Herman Dyal, and more.

Friday, November 18 is Eyes Got It art critique contest hosted by Art In Public Places panelist Jaime Castillo at 1319 Rosewood from 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM. I decided to participate in this critique this year because the winner of the contest wins an exhibition at the Gray Duck Gallery. And, it's great exposure and good practice for me.

At Fisterra Studio, I am in great company with all of these guest artists, come see us!
--Andrea Pramuk--
--Annie Simpson--
--Brooke M Davis--
--Felice House--
--Judith Simonds--
--Richard Mansfield--
--Wells Mason--
--Sebastian Miles--
--Erik Tragus--

November is a gas

2011-10-31T11:21:00.000-05:00

Wave and Ice by Edward Pramuk, 2010

I've got lots of November news to share my friends. So much so, I will go in chronological order. First, if you've ever wanted to own an original Edward Pramuk work of art, my dad has graciously donated this collage called "Wave and Ice" for a raffle happening next week at KINETICS, Baton Rouge's Premier Live Art Auction, at Baton Rouge Gallery. Only 500 tickets have been made available, each ticket just $10 each. KINETICS will be held on Friday, November 4 from 6 – 10 p.m. inside Baton Rouge Gallery, located inside BREC's Historic City Park. Tickets to the event can still be purchased at the gallery for just $40 ($30 for members). So, that's $30-$40 for the event plus $10 per raffle ticket - you do not have to be present or go to the event to buy a raffle ticket. Click here for a link to the virtual catalog of all the amazing works in the auction and for more information. Good luck!

Next, I've been very busy getting ready for and super excited about the East Austin Studio Tour or E.A.S.T. I was graciously invited by Jennifer Chenoweth to show in her home/studio Fisterra Studio the weekends of Nov 12/13 and Nov 19/20 from 11-6PM. I will be sharing space with my good friend Judith Simonds in the front room. Lots of other Generous Artists will also be there - it's gonna be awesome! Click here for a link to the virtual catalog - Judy and I are on page 8. A few catalogs and maps are available to the public at any Austin Public Library for free - limited quantities, get yours before they're gone. The E.A.S.T. website also has a free interactive smart phone map to help you get around by bike, foot or car. This tour is a fantastic way to meet all the artists, galleries and artist spaces (and more) throughout east Austin. E.A.S.T. is a great opportunity to help an artist by purchasing an original work of art as a gift or for yourself for not a lot of money.

I lost count at some point, but I will have a bunch of paintings for sale ranging in price from $100-$200 each. A sneak preview of the staging area (aka my office) is shown with the piles of paintings. Also, I managed to finish the pendants I've been designing over the last few months - there are 11 available. They are 1" around and I ended up using archival prints on Arches Digital printing paper on one side and a digital transparency of a different image on the other - so you get two pendants for the price of one! Each print is a hand selected detail from one of my recent paintings, carefully hand trimmed and glued inside a rhodium plated stainless steel/glass locket with magnetic closures and a 16" sterling silver chain. They retail at $75 each. If I have any left after the show, they will go up into my Etsy shop in time for the holidays.

To kick off the tour, Art Alliance Austin is hosting Art Night EAST which is Thursday, Nov 10 from 7-10PM. Tickets for the public are $55 and can be purchased on their website. Fisterra Studio will be one of the prestigious stops on this exclusive preview tour and buyers/collectors will get 10% off that night only. Of course, the E.A.S.T. official tour is free and open to the public both weekends.

My Mother's Sweater,

Alcohol inks, mica powder

and oil on Claybord, 2011

Next stop on the tour: I submitted my work for Eyes Got it!, a live juried competition to win a one person show at Gray Duck Gallery here in Austin. Similar in style to Bravo’s Work of Art: The Next Great Artist, my work will go through a public review process over the course of three rounds to determine a final winner. There will be some stiff competition! My Mother's Sweater is one of the paintings I submitted for good luck.

Trees of Life
Watercolor, alcohol inks, oil
and cold wax on Claybord, 2011

What's next you say? I just finished up a painting today called Trees of Life No. 4, a top quality iPhone studio shot is included for your viewing pleasure. I am donating this piece to ACT or Artists Changing Tomorrow annual auction coming up in February 2012 over in neighboring Round Top, Texas. Proceeds go to fund Arts for Rural Texas, a worthy cause of which I am proud to be a part. I'll post a better pic once the paint dries!

I do hope to see each of you at E.A.S.T. Try to make it over and out to help support local artists in Austin's thriving arts community. Many thanks for your support and encouragement over the last few months. I could not have done it without you!

I got the generous blues

2011-09-12T11:15:00.000-05:00

"Big Blue", dry wall compound,
acrylic, oil and pencil on
Gessobord™ 30"x30"x2".

This weekend, I've been preparing this painting from 2009 called "Big Blue" to be shown at the Generous Art Grand Opening celebration coming up Sept 29. For details, here's the facebook invitation if you'd like to attend. Some wonderful artists will be showcased in downtown Austin at the W in the Gensler Design firm offices, along with live music (of course). All sales will go to support the many non-profits Generous Art works with like Amala Foundation, Art Alliance Austin, Big Medium, Emancipet, I Live Here I Give Here, Meals on Wheels and More, SIMS Foundation, to name a few. I hope you can make it.

Here's "Big Blue" getting
all spiffed up with wax
and a bit of touch up paint.

I'm also working on a painting for ACT or Artist's Changing Tomorrow art auction that benefits arts education in rural Texas - it's not till Feb. 2012. The painting is due soon, so I've got to get it done. Here's a sneak preview for you. I decided to go with one of the "trees of life" I've been working on. See the yellow in-process puddle painting. I did just find a sexy new tube of Schmincke yellow watercolor in my paint drawer when I cleaned my studio and decided to start with that. I have to admit, it's some nice paint.

The last picture is an in-process shot of the 3rd painting in the "Tree of Life" group I started a number of months ago. I began with watercolor, then moved to alcohol inks, then finished off with oil glazes. I imagine I will finish the surface with the Gamblin cold wax which will even out and seal the various layers of paint. I should have these paintings done soon and will post a group shot later on.

More news to come next week. Until then my friends.

"Tree of Life" for ACT
sneak peak

In-process, #3 in
"Tree of Life" sneak peak

Image transfers inside tiny frames

2011-08-28T22:46:00.000-05:00

Pendant with image transfer
on handmade Japanese paper.

In follow-up to last week's blog, I've made a tiny amount of progress on my pendant idea despite a nasty bout of the flu - who gets the flu when it's 108 degrees out anyway...pfft. I tried a number of things that I was talking about last week including image transfers on metal which did not work. I think the little blanks I'm using are just too small for that. I might revisit the idea on larger pieces of metal later on. Painting directly onto metal seems like the best avenue so far and looks cool. However, if I paint on the metal discs, each pendant would need 2, so then the weight gets a little too heavy at least for my neck. The metal discs might make nice pendants for a different product or even earrings, ooohhh, hey there's a thought for my Etsy shop.

I was having too many arguments with the printer over why it would not print the entire page I sent, but I can say that the prints on the Canson Arches paper were BEAUTIFUL - the detail was astonishing. I will hang on to this paper for another use, like making prints of my paintings to sell - it was THAT good. Possibly, I will use it for the prints for the pendants, but there were a number of reasons not to: it was too thick and did not fit inside without a lot of harangue, the white was too bright so the pendant "glows" too much against skin and it was difficult to cut.

Since none of my original thoughts hit pay dirt, I started looking around my studio at alternative materials and found some handmade Japanese paper - perfect! It's semi-transparent, white, but not too white and very much has the sensibility I'm looking for. And, the images transferred perfectly. From the pictures, you can see that even some light gets through, but it's not too bright of a white background. By the way, if anyone knows of a circle or hole cutter I could use to make perfect circles of assorted sizes with paper, let me know. I am not the best at free-hand cutting paper like this. I would like to be able to offer these pendants with three different paintings each, so that one might color coordinate with what one is wearing on any given day. The circles could be kept safe in a tiny clear plastic box.

PDF page of zooms

Back to the transfer process. I set up the template page first in InDesign, selecting about 50+ zooms of various pieces of my own artwork. Then, I exported the file to a 300dpi CMYK pdf file. Using our regular old HP desktop inkjet printer, I printed up the pdf page full of images onto one sheet of Apollo universal inkjet transparency film (about $35 for 50 sheets). Then, I selected the individual image I wanted to transfer and cut it out of the film with scissors. On the Japanese paper, I applied a layer of Golden® fluid super matte medium. From what I understand, any gel medium will work. I will probably try the satin and gloss to see how well they work next. I laid the printed side of the film down into the gel and then smoothed out any air bubbles with a rubber brayer. There was a little bit of bleeding around the edges, but not bad. I let the image set for awhile, not until totally dry, but almost - maybe 20 minutes or so. Then, I gently and very carefully lifted the film. That's it. Done. Easy. There was a bit of wrinkling from the gel shrinking the paper which I can press out later, not a big deal. Thanks for taking time to check it all out, feedback and questions are welcome.

What the print looks
like against skin.

Fashionista puddles

2011-08-21T23:28:00.002-05:00

Painting alcohol inks on glass.

I've been working out ways to incorporate my paintings into fashion (I'm sorry, what?). Just trying to gauge interest at this point so I'm starting off small. I'd like to be able to work up a dozen or so of this pendant idea for my installation at E.A.S.T in November and to sell in my Etsy shop. This weekend, I tried painting on a number of different surfaces to come up with one I could either turn into a pendant or insert into a glass locket. I still have some image transfers to experiment with, but that will have to wait till I can get more materials. Painting on glass was kinda cool, but not super practical when going to paint the inside of a glass locket - just wait till you see how small it is!

Alcohol inks on stainless steel

Next, I tried painting on stainless steel pre-punched stamping blanks - I think these will need to be larger, but the results were promising. I was painting on the "b" side. The "a" sides are shiny like chrome. These metal discs fit perfectly inside the locket too, but have a totally different "glam" kind of feel vs the paper paintings. REALLY hard to photograph too. Might need to call in the paid professional Frank Ragan. I will also need a model, but luckily, I also have one of those that I know needs some work.

Front of the locket prototype. Inside is a

painting on Canson/Arches ink jet paper.

Next option, I will take sections of existing paintings and print them using my desktop printer and Canson's Infinity ink jet papers. These papers have a specialty coating that's more receptive to the ink jet printer "droplet" printing process. Like every good painter, I decided to try painting on it first. (The printing talk will have to be in the next blog along with the photo transfer process I'm going to try next.) I can tell you that watercolor and water-miscible paints do not work on this paper - the coating comes right off and makes a mess, unless that's what you want, that's ok too. I dropped alcohol inks onto the paper and they just sank right into the surface, so I don't think that's going to work. I'll try and use them for what they were made for next (wink, wink). I did use my quickie ink paintings to test fit a tiny image into the prototype locket and I think it looks ok, but I'm getting excited about seeing an actual work inside there. I managed to find a stainless steel clear glass locket with sterling silver chain and magnetic enclosure - looks like a tiny framed reversible painting you can hang on your body instead of the wall, and without experiencing the pain of getting ink. I'm thinking retail of about $50.

Back of the locket. You get two paintings.

Inside of the locket with the stains
on the back of the paper showing.

Thanks for taking time out to read my blog and to share in the musings. Feel free to ask technical questions if you're curious about any of these processes. Have an awesome evening tonight or day tomorrow.

Blogging the mind

2011-08-15T23:36:00.000-05:00

"Trees of Life" in progress

I'm finding that when I don't blog once a week, the task becomes daunting, the blog too long. Who wants to read a long blog? So, I will try and keep it short, but I do this for me, so I need to get something out of it or what's the point, right? Keeping it light people :).

First, let me tell you about something I'm really excited about. Remember my friend Jennifer Chenoweth and her fab Generous Art Organization? There will be a grand opening on Sept. 29th at the Gensler Design Group inside the "W" in downtown Austin. Through sales of artwork, including mine, the Grand Opening will raise money for Amala Foundation, Art Alliance Austin, Austin Child Guidance Center, Austin Creative Alliance, Austin School of Film, Big Medium, Cancer Connection, Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems, Communities in Schools of Central Texas, Emancipet, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Meals on Wheels and More, Mental Health America of Texas, Open Door Preschools, SafePlace, SIMS Foundation, Sustainable Food Center, and Texas RioGrande Legal Aid. I'm pretty stoked to be a part of this organization, I hope to see you at the opening! I will send a reminder closer to the event.

More exciting news and then I'll save the rest for a new blog because there's more. Jennifer also invited me to show some work at Fisterra Studio during E.A.S.T in November. I will post more info when it gets closer to the date in case you'd like to attend. Basically, every art studio, gallery, bookstore, and nook and cranny you can put a piece of art in east of I35, opens their doors for 2 weekends in November (12th and 19th). The event is open to the public and encompasses several miles that you can walk, bike or drive through. This is Austin's biggest art event and does a fantastic job of bringing artists, collectors and enthusiasts together for one big "dose". I'm working on a group of paintings to show and possibly a new fashion design to debut. More on this later.

Now that our summer trips and family time are over, I'm cleaning up the studio and resuming work on the "trees of life" I spoke about in the last blog. Somehow, I managed to sell a few pieces to a collector in London, so I need to go pack them up and say goodbye and bon voyage before it gets too late. I am saving a few bits of juicy news until next time and re-listing a few links to my causes below before I go. Life sure is exciting if you make it, live it while you can. Thanks for being there and for listening.

"Super Moon for Japan"

Prints of Super Moon for Japan - 100% of my portion of the sale of this print goes to the ongoing relief effort in Japan: Link to purchase a print

Generous Art - buy art, donate to the non-profit of your choice:
Link to buy art, be generous

50% of the sale of this original Gulf Spill inspired painting goes to Gulf Restoration Network:
Buy "Dispersant" here.

John Orr Franklin Band has a new album: Check it out here

Gathering fuel for thought

2011-06-05T22:55:00.001-05:00

"Eye of the Storm", alcohol inks on

Claybord, 2.5"x3.5", 2011

Wow, am I overdue for writing a new blog. No self-flogging here, just been preoccupied with traveling and family, not much privacy or "me" time lately it seems. My original intention with tonight's blog was to write about a side project I've been working on with my friend Judy. But quickly, I'd like to go over a few updates regarding the other projects I've been sharing with you over the past few months. I am pleased to announce that I am sending a check for $300 to the American Red Cross for the ongoing relief effort in Japan. I just received payment from Fine Art America for print sales of "Super Moon for Japan". Since this in an ongoing effort on my part to raise money for Japan, if you'd like to buy a print at any time, the money will still go to support the effort. Here's the link to buy a print of "Super Moon". Also, if you'd like to donate to the relief effort directly, you can do so by texting REDCROSS or 90999 to make $10 donation or you can follow this link to designate funds specifically for Japan. Of course $300 is a just a drop in the bucket in the overall scheme of things, but I am more than happy with my contribution - a deep thanks (and hug) to each of you who helped me by buying a painting, print or greeting card.

Now, back to Judy. I've known Judith Simonds for many years now. Such a dear friend, talented artist and teacher. When she showed me her current body of work, her studio was crammed full of both heavily detailed paintings and black ceramic sculptures with human and natural forms. My immediate question to her was, "why aren't these in a gallery together right now"? She had started working on a proposal to present to a number of galleries and museums and I offered to help her. This body of work needs to be seen and experienced. Honestly, it is the best and most cohesive body of work she's done, this work needs to be exhibited. So, we got to work on putting together a "package" that she could shop around till she found just the right location to install this show. Brochures, logos, business cards, image handling....all things I can do since this is mainly what I do day to day for Ampersand. I was really happy with how some of the design pieces came together and thought by sharing them, I could give you a small preview of what's in store for this exhibition when it happens. Here's a few of the graphics.

Front of Judith Simonds 8.5"x11" brochure

Inside p. 1 of Judith Simonds 8.5"x11" brochure

Inside p. 2 of Judith Simonds 8.5"x11" brochure

It might be some time before I can write another blog. I am heading to Mexico soon where I will be gathering much needed fuel for thought and having mas tequila to aid in "said" fueling. But, before I go, I wanted to share a new painting called "Eye of the Storm" (shown at top). Just a small painting done on Claybord™ with alcohol inks. I have been doing several larger works in watercolor that I will have to share once I come back from my trip. Interestingly enough, they are very watery "trees of life" included in the "After Life" group of paintings I've been working on (coming soon). Namaste and buenos noches mi amigos y amigas.

The Next Chapter and Japan Update

2011-04-17T22:25:00.000-05:00

"Prism Veil"

I just spent the last week in Phoenix at the National Art Materials Trade Association annual trade show representing good ole' Ampersand and selling bords. Having been gone that long, it's easy for me to lose focus. So, I'm stepping back a bit, cleaning up the studio and gearing up to get back into the groove this coming week. I do have some new ideas brewing and am excited to get back going.

Gallery Hours and Days

The show with Dana Brown at the Diaz Gallery should be up for one more week if you wanted to stop in and see it before I go take it down. The paintings not sold from the exhibition will go up into my Etsy store for sale in the next two weeks.
My Japan Relief fundraising is still going strong with two new print sales this morning (yes!). My new total is $276.30. Not quite the $100 million dollars I was shooting for, but I am very grateful to all the folks who've helped me to raise this much. Incredible! Many thanks to each of you. This is an ongoing thing if you wanted to buy a Super Moon print, you can do that indefinitely at Fine Art America.

Buy a print of Super Moon
for Japan here

John and I just realized that it's our eleventh anniversary this Good Friday so we may have to plan something special to celebrate. Speaking of John, besides being completely wheat and pain-free, we've decided to also try reducing or eliminating meat from our diets entirely. There is a term for it and I have forgotten what it is, but we hope to reduce the amount of negative energy we consume by eating animals that suffered through life and death. Doesn't seem completely fantastical to me that negative energy can be transferred to an animal's tissues and thus transferred to the person eating it. It may only be psychological, but with what I do know about the universe already, this doesn't seem completely half-cocked if you know what I mean? We haven't worked out what to do about John's famous BBQ yet. Smoking corn is really just not going to be the same without John's brisket and sauce!

Download the song here

This week, John released a smokin' bad ass new single called "Alpha and Omega" featuring special guest, Gavin Harrison from the band Porcupine Tree, on drums. You can stream the song for free on John's website or download the high def version for $1. Definitely worth a listen folks, I really think the songs from this new album "Soldier On" are John's best yet.

I do have a new painting to share with you from some experimental surfaces I've been testing. This one (at the top of the page) is called "Prism Veil" and it's a watercolor on Daniel Smith's new watercolor painting ground. I sanded the ground smooth after applying it and was able to get some pretty cool results with the water blobs. I still prefer the Ampersand surfaces which are just so flawless and ready to go. Good thing I still work for the company and feel good about using their surfaces. This particular painting, I wanted more of a glass-like transparency that you can move through visually without much effort like an out of body experience more or less. I am going to also try this "veiling" technique on the Claybord, see what happens. I've had quite a bit of success sealing the new watercolors with Gamblin's cold wax medium. It can be a little tricky not to lift some of the paint when applying the wax on the watercolors that have heavier pigment, but it sure beats using a toxic spray. This painting also seemed appropriate for Easter with the jelly bean colors. If you celebrate Easter, I wish you a happy one next weekend.

Raising $$$ for Japan with art, music & quilting - edits

2011-04-03T22:27:00.004-05:00

Super Moon for Japan
$60 for the relief effort
2.5"w x 3.5"h (8"x10" framed)
Buy it on Etsy

Every single thing
Changes and is changing
Always in this world.
Yet with the same light
The moon goes on shining.
—Saigyo

Lots of news to share. Tonight's blog is chock-full of helpful links. Feel free to re-post it if you want to help me spread this important news. I've developed and happened across several opportunities to help raise funds for the colossal disaster still unfolding in Japan. First, this watercolor painting entitled "Super Moon for Japan" is for sale on Etsy - $60 framed - 100% of this sale goes to either the Red Cross or Music for Relief (UPDATE: now SOLD). The folks at Etsy have been really helpful by including this work in their various treasuries for the relief effort like this one (click here). In conjunction with the Etsy sale, I am also selling greeting cards and prints on Fine Art America. I only make a % of the sale ranging from $1 - $30, all of which, I am also donating. So far, I've been able to raise about $189 and will continue to make donations to support Japan relief throughout the lifetime of the original and print sales of this poignant artwork.

Next week, I'll be attending the International Art Materials Trade Association (NAMTA) in Phoenix. I was approached last week by Rick Munisteri (Master of Ceremonies at NAMTA) to distribute some literature about the prints I have for sale at Fine Art America. They will have a booth set up to coordinate support efforts of NAMTA members for not only the people of Japan, but also all of the Japanese art materials manufacturers and dealers affected. Rick was kind enough to purchase one of my prints to help support my efforts (looks awesome on the green wall Rick!). Many thanks to all the wonderful folks who purchased a print to help me raise dineros - together we will make a difference!

A number of friends are also finding creative ways to help in the effort through their art and music. John Orr Franklin has donated his song "Hypnotized" for a compilation album called "Strength" put together by Nick Katona from There is Hope Records, a subsidiary of Melodic Revolutions Records. 100% of the proceeds go to the relief effort. All songs can be purchased individually for $1 or you can download the whole album for $9.99 (more if you wish). A 3 CD, 34-track set will be available for purchase soon for $15 (includes shipping) if you'd rather wait for the hard copy. The CD will feature artwork by well known prog album artist Ed Unitsky. I reserved some of the CD's to get my xmas shopping out of the way early - what's a better gift than music for a real and just cause?

UPDATE: (This project is on hold until they can figure out a better system for managing the raffle/auction. Stay tuned). My friend Petra Anderson from our days at KCAI, a wonderful artist and quilter, is participating in a raffle through Modern Relief, a group of modern quilters banding together to support relief efforts in Japan. Every Monday, new quilts will be featured on the website and then raffled off at the end of the donation period (May 16th). There will be over 50 quilts featured and every $10 donation will give you a chance to win a quilt. All proceeds will go toward Mercy Corps who has paired with Peace Winds in their relief efforts.

I also ran across a great page on Facebook called Artists for Japan, a grassroots effort of sorts that is auctioning off works of art through Facebook to raise funds for the Red Cross. I'm still working out the details, but I may also donate another painting to these folks while the momentum is still going. Really nice group of artists who also have a desire to make the world a better place. If you'd like to submit work, they are still accepting proposals.

In other art news, I've been painting away and will have some new images to post in the next week or so. Still experimenting with new surfaces and techniques, inventing new ways to puddle paint in order to create a huge universe on a tiny scale. There must be a psychological term for that kind of behavior, just haven't run across it yet :). Here's one I just finished up that is partner to "Super Moon for Japan" called "Dreaming in Green". Thanks for sharing it with me this evening.

"Dreaming in Green", 2.5"w x 3.5"h,
watercolor and cold wax on Aquabord™Buy it on Etsy

Making the world a better place through art and music

2011-03-21T00:19:00.001-05:00

Howdy folks. Lots of news from this week. I was presented with an opportunity (on Monday) to do a one-person show this weekend at the Diaz Gallery, an art space located inside Plant Escape Gardens here in Austin. An artist friend of mine, Dana Brown is friends with the owner and suggested that I might have work available to install during SXSW weekend. They had a full day of live music outside the gallery and were set up as an unofficial SX venue. Luckily, since I was getting prepared for my Etsy store, I had a number of pieces ready to go. Turns out Dana also had a few pieces to exhibit, so this is our first two-person show together. I think with his newer abstract works, it was a good pairing. If you're in S. Austin, please take a minute to stop by and see the show. The shop has regular daily hours. All of the paintings are affordably priced at under $200.

This is a section of the room I was in.
Watercolors on the left, sketches on the right.

These are Dana Brown's oil paintings
in the next room.

John was also presented with an amazing opportunity this week and I've been spending a bit of time helping him to promote this new project. He was invited to donate an original song by Nick Katona from Melodic Revolutions, a prog record label based out of Florida to benefit the relief effort in Japan. Nick has put together a compilation album called "Strength" on There is Hope Records featuring 24+ artists that will be available for sale on Tuesday, 3/22. 100% of the sales will be donated to a charity called Music for Relief that supports disaster relief efforts and strives to reduce global warming. I'm not sure of the cost for the entire digital download yet, but I imagine it will be around $20. Preview or buy the whole album now.

Don't have $20, but still want to help? John is also selling his song "Hypnotized" by individual download for $1 and sending 100% to There is Hope Records. Buy the song for $1 now. John talks more about the meaning behind this emotionally charged song in his blog. The cover of the album was designed by well known and popular "prog" artist Ed Unitsky, who also generously donated his artwork for the album.
In other news, since I put all the work for my Etsy store in the gallery, it's back to the frame shop to assemble more paintings for the store. When I began this afternoon, I happened across this lovely painting called "Super Moon for Japan" that reminded me of the red sun on the Japanese flag. It also has a very Zen feel about it that struck me as very appropriate. I am going to figure out a way to sell prints of this image in order to raise money for the relief efforts. I've been feeling helpless as I imagine many of you do too. My heart breaks for the people of Japan and I've been looking for ways to help and band with others. Next week, I hope to post where you can buy this print online so that we can make the world a better place together one piece of art and music at a time.

"Super Moon for Japan"
Watercolor on Aquabord™
2.75"x3.25", 2011

My Etsy store is now online! Ok. I am too excited.

2011-03-10T00:18:00.001-06:00

So very RAD! Drinks all around!

This just in: one painting SOLD

Number 4 of 5 | Time out

2011-02-24T22:35:00.002-06:00

Taking a short time out tonight to write up a little blog. Still lots happening around the Pramuk/Franklin household and studio honeycomb. Besides being a little overwhelmed with work at work, I've been busy framing and setting up my items for the Etsy store at home. The frames and supplies are all in stock now which means I've got to get busy framing and setting up items and probably do a bit more photography.

I can say I've also spent a fair amount of time this week with John as the on again off again creative consultant - lots going on in music news, but will have to keep a lid on it for awhile still.

The work I did for the GenerousArt.org website is 99% up and running. If you'd like to buy some art and donate to a good cause at the same time, visit the site and get something going. They are accepting proposals from new artists as they build their business. Email me if you'd like me to send you an application.

In other news, had a short and intensive home and studio visit with an old friend from UT college days, Robert Aitchison, who was in town from NYC cleaning out his storage room filled with 100's if not 1000's of paintings from ten or more years ago. Today, he is a wonderful teacher and artist - it was great to see him. Spend a few minutes with his work if you can, his paintings are truly amazing. I adopted two of his paintings from the storage room and am mentally rearranging the walls to determine where they might best be showcased at mi casa. He also has a good blog.

Still in more news, I have started on a design project for my lovely and talented friend Judy Simonds. Also, you should spend some time with her work if you have a second. Amazing sculptress, painter, ceramics guru. Her current work is beyond amazing and I've decided to help her put a press packet together to send out to galleries and exhibition spaces. I truly believe she can't keep this new stuff to herself, it is such a cohesive and expressive body of work.

Had a little fun with a group on Facebook called Creative Workspaces started by my good buddy Anna Conti, an accomplished painter friend out in San Francisco. The idea is to post images of our workspaces. It was very interesting to compare notes and see the contrast in spaces. I especially thought the the size and location of the studios were interesting based on which part of the country the artist lived in.

Already, I have a busy weekend planned. My cousins that I just met for the first time 1 year ago, sadly have decided to move back to Seattle along with their sweet baby girl Ava. So, I'm going to set aside some time to hang with all of them one last time before they head out next week. Also, the exquisite painter, Stella Alesi, is having an opening at Ladybird's Wildflower Center, I am going to try and attend on Sunday afternoon.

About Number 4 (below). This painting was actually the first in the series of five I've been posting over the past few weeks. I wanted to make a painting that was as close to being invisible as possible without being invisible. I feel I came pretty close.

"Invisible Yellow", watercolor on sanded
Aquabord™, 2010

Number 3 of 5: Presents

2011-02-10T23:49:00.023-06:00

Artwork size 2.5"x3.5", framed size is 8"x10".

   Lots going on this past week and a half, so it's time to step back and access where I'm at and where I need to go next. First (and this was great exercise, by the way), I finished framing up four small paintings for the LSU museum store at the Shaw Center in Baton Rouge. The paintings arrived there yesterday and should be ready for sale by tomorrow. They are like small valentines, all pink and flowery (ACEO size = art cards, editions & originals, 2.5"x3.5"). If you need an affordable gift for your sweetie and you're in the area, maybe stop by and pick one up instead of flowers and candy (what am I saying, no candy?). Ok, maybe a painting and some chocolate would make the perfect gift or even better than that, a painting and wine! This was also great exercise because essentially, I am developing a product for my Etsy store using these tiny thumbnail sketches. I was able to work out a lot of framing issues, supplies, shipping and costs, etc by preparing this work for the museum store.
   Next, I assembled a packet of materials for GenerousArt.org. I put up six paintings for sale on their website from the "Markers of Time" Geometric Series circa 2005 which should be up in a few days. Proceeds go to the artist (moi), Generous Art and to the charity you choose on check out, they have some fantastic causes. One of the charities is the Sims Foundation which helps local Austin musicians with all kinds of things from health care to legal advice, a cause as many of you know is close to my heart because of John - check out his band by the way.
   And, there was a lot of planning of gifts for birthdays this week: mine, Mike Robinson's and my dad's 75th birthday coming up on Valentine's Day. I prepared a small painting for Mike Robinson who has been a wonderful and supportive friend to my family for many years. As a thank you and I hope he likes it, I sent him a painting called "Beach" for his 65th birthday which just so happens to be on the same day as mine 2/12. Unfortunately, the gifts me, my mom and my sister planned so hard to buy for my Dad got stuck somewhere in the blizzard of the century. A few consolation prizes were sent to him today, but I still have hopes the other "real" gifts will arrive soon. I set up a Facebook page for my dad that he can see even though he doesn't have an account. If you'd like to wish him a happy birthday, like this page and share your birthday wishes here: Edward Pramuk's 75th birthday party page.

Still documenting some artwork from 2010. This painting is called "Yellow No. 5" and is the third of five in the set I have been publishing over the last few weeks. This one is probably my favorite in the grouping - so watery and delicate and almost invisible.

Thanks for spending some time with my blog this evening. My goal is for the next post to be about my experiences setting up my new online store!

"Yellow No. 5", watercolor on sanded
Aquabord™, 11"x14", 2010

Number 2 of 5: Balancing act

2011-01-31T01:16:00.000-06:00

This "morning's" blog is going to be fairly short - I have been super busy! While preparing works for my Etsy store and documenting last year's work (still), I was presented with two other fantastic retail opportunities (among other things) so my focused effort has split out into several directions. Sleep is starting to take a major hit - there are just not enough hours in the day. My goal was to sell a few sketches on my new Etsy store. Now, I am working on putting six paintings together to share with Generous Art, an organization run by my old friend Jennifer Chenowith here in Austin. You should check out the website if you have a second, it is the flagship site - if/when it takes off, they will shop the same business model around to other markets like Chicago, NY, San Fran, etc. Sales of the artworks posted on the website go to the artist (moi), the Sims Foundation, Open Door Preschool and a small percentage goes back to Generous Art. I am proud to support such an effort and have been looking for ways like this to use my art to make the world a better place. I'm going to start here :).
a
The other opportunity was from an old friend Meg Guidroz Holford who is helping to coordinate the display of original artworks at the LSU museum store at the Shaw Center in Baton Rouge. Such a beautiful and progressive facility. Also, take a minute to check out the new art installations and performances when you get a chance. So, at the same time, I'm giving back to my roots, at least that's how I see it. Now, the question is which four works to send to the museum store. The ones I have been preparing over the last week may not be the right ones - my mind is changing. Well. I will just have to sleep on it (hello, fluffy pillows).
a
This painting is called "24" and is the 2nd of 5 watercolor paintings from a small series - see "1 of 5" in the last blog entry or in my Picasa gallery. Thanks for spending some time with my paintings, Namaste.

Number 1 of 5: Making decisions all in one swoop

2011-01-20T23:13:00.006-06:00

Over the next few days - week, I will be posting a group of five watercolors. This group of paintings, I've been living with for maybe a year, perhaps longer, I really can't remember. I began with watercolor that was thinned down to maybe 1% pigment and was determined to leave them extremely transparent and delicate, almost invisible. Some are still this way or have elements of this still in existence in the layers and peeking through. I tend to have a heavy hand when it comes to painting and drawing, so these paintings were a particular challenge. I find them comforting in a way, but also chaotic. They seem balanced and off balance at the same time. They have movement, but also a quiet stillness. The forms connect and break, overlap, spill into each other. I'm finding that it takes a lot of courage to do paintings like these. It also takes an amazing amount of strength for me to not lay the brush down to change and overwork. Decisions have to be made and final all in one swoop. Enormously satisfying on many levels. I finally decide and deem them finished! It could be they are only one painting in five parts. That, I have not decided yet. Thanks for spending a little time with my paintings this evening. The rest of the group will be forthcoming.

Photographing Artwork

2011-01-16T23:20:00.000-06:00

Spent some time this weekend setting up my new photo tent from Cowboy Studio. It came with two daylights that appear to do the job ok. These light tents come in a lot of different sizes and fold down like a car sun shade. The one in this photo is 30" square. The painting inside is 16"x16" for comparison and is on one of Ampersand's beautiful cradled panels. The tent has a cover on the front of it that has a hole you can put the lens through so there's no light corruption to deal with. It also comes with four backdrop colors. I took these photos with my Canon Powershot (a point and shoot). I still have three other cameras to experiment with to see if I can get more detail. It's been a real struggle trying to photograph my work going back to when I first started painting. I have to say that digital is easier and more immediate, but I still don't feel like I'm able to get the detail and color balance I'm looking for. In the end, I learned how to use Photoshop so I could "fix" my photographs, so there is some reward (giggle, snort). Overall, I like how the tent idea is working, the lighting is simple and really lights up the painting surface without glare or hot spots. The experimenting continues as I prepare photographs for my portfolio and Etsy store (coming soon).

Diversions/Distractions

2011-01-12T22:59:00.002-06:00

Evening to you! I can't imagine a time I might post in the morning unless I was up till 4 am with insomnia. Tonight's post, I start with this tiny tiny painting called "Firecracker". This painting is very small, minuscule even, but packed with energy. While I was working on it, I couldn't help but think of my friend Rhiannon's daughter Jazmine, who may very well be a child prodigy - if you are reading this now which I doubt because I am not "cool" and "old", you know this to be true :). She is young, sharp, beautiful, talented, creative, not the usual teen I think of in today's world besides my niece Hannah who goes to the Denver School of Performing arts and is a force to be reckoned with herself with many of the same gifts. I think of Jazmine because she is just starting to paint and draw and is taking her first art classes in college in a few weeks. She has her whole life ahead of her, the world at her fingertips. I am hopeful for the future when I look at these two young women, already so driven and strong. I am inspired by them both. What I would give to have such a fresh start at my age! I am still playing over a conversation I had last weekend with my good friend Ellen who just had a stroke that left her blind in one eye. She is a drawing teacher and wonderful artist, so I wish very hard for her recovery. We both came to the consensus that a good day is every day spent above ground. Not in a morbid way, but we both feel that every day has a purpose and a life of its own, something to be gained. As I grow older, I start to understand how important and meaningful every day can be if we make it so. It just takes a tiny effort each day to make a world of difference in our lives and maybe then, a fresh start is not so out of reach.

I started this blog in my head today while dealing with the some of the many distractions and diversions that seem to happen everyday and prevent me from getting into my studio. Granted, today had more than most (or did it?). Now is the time when the work is done, questions have stopped, the phone has stopped ringing, dinner has been taken care of and cleaned up, dog is not barking and I am once and for all, alone with my thoughts. I cannot imagine a life with children because I would devote every second of every day to making sure they were taken care of, an artist of mothers like my friends who are such devoted and incredible parents. I would put myself and my needs last, no doubt. This is pretty much what I've been doing the past few years even without children. I imagine many of you are in the same boat. But, if you do not take care of your own needs first, you cannot meet the needs of others or your art. I am finding ways to let go and let go freely and without regret or remorse. We only have the days we are living and the moments we are breathing, we have to make it count and keep the energy flowing through the creative universe. All of this stemmed from a tiny firecracker of a painting.

A new direction

2011-01-06T22:46:00.002-06:00

Evening to you or "morning" as the case may be. This particular painting came at a fairly dark time in my life last year. When we experienced the worst environmental disaster in history, it was hard not to be affected by it and what it meant globally, personally and how our daily actions could have such a profound and negative impact on the universe and our earth. Having to face the deep water horizon catastrophe and my father's stroke and the death of a close friend in such a short period of time meant that the universe was sending me some pretty heavy stuff to face that could not be avoided. This painting "happened", but I do know what I was thinking about and "dispersant" seemed an appropriate title. There is only one of these such paintings. Today, I do not particularly want to deal with the negative or make dark paintings that express doom. Instead, I embrace these dark experiences and imagine an afterlife that is not a place of sadness or dark thoughts, but a place of shapes and colors, light and friendly forms. These new paintings are "percolating" as an artist friend once said to me. Images will come in due time. I'm not quite done with documenting 2010, but did want to include the notes on this painting before moving forward.

Moving forward, making progress

2011-01-04T22:16:00.005-06:00

Hola! I'm slowly making progress, but had to do some backtracking. Got the online slideshow gallery working now. Cool thing about Picasa is that you can link pictures from your slideshow individually into your blog. So now, I can talk about this new ACEO pink sketch without uploading a new file, tagging, wasting time, etc. Makes me happy :). I ordered a new light kit and tent today so that I can start photographing some small paintings for my new Etsy store that are decently lit since I am the world's worst photographer. There's nothing in the store yet, but I'm working on those details now. I hope to have about 10 small paintings for sale in the next couple of weeks, get the process started. I am thrilled at the prospect of selling one painting, keep the bar and the stress level low while I dive in. I work pretty long hours, but if my calculations are right, potentially if I focus on one small task per day whether it's painting, documentation, blog, etc., I'll be making really great progress in a relatively short period of time and making some paintings in the process. Ha cha cha!

This little pink "sketch" is one of several ACEO (Art Card Original Editions) I am putting together for my online store, comes with a tiny frame. I'm thinking of $25 - $30 + S&H. My goal is to make affordable original art most anyone could afford, while making a little art, $$$ and the world a better place.

Gallery Slideshow - in progress

2011-01-02T21:22:00.000-06:00

Howdy folks, happy new year to you! I've been working on a new online gallery with some old work and some new. I find it's nice to see the progression and common threads that carry through the work. It's a great time for a fresh start in the new year. I've got some new work to post and between Picasa and this blog, I should be able to update things more easily, maybe sell a few small paintings on Etsy. Questions/Comments are welcome. Stay tuned for more and thanks for spending a little time with my paintings. xo

Paula Kaye Henderson, a Tribute and Remembrance

2010-09-13T23:30:00.004-05:00

A Tribute
I created this slideshow for a dear family friend, Paula Henderson, who passed away August 10, 2010. This is a short version of the slideshow played at her Memorial service at the Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge, August 28, 2010. Songs include "This Day" by John Orr Franklin, "Imagine" by John Lennon, "Into the Mystic" by Van Morrison and "All good things" written by Jackson Browne and performed live by Lynn M. Taylor, Rick Somers and Kendall Jackson at Paula's service. Feel free to share with those who could not attend.

A Remembrance
March 7, 1945 – August 9, 2010

I met Paula when I was 4, maybe 5 years old when I became fast friends with her only daughter Robin. They moved just down the hill from my parents and stayed until Paula’s untimely death last week. I have had a difficult time believing she is gone and deciding what to share, playing over and over my memories of her that keep flooding back. It was no secret that Paula had been ill for some time now, but we all had great hopes for her future health and recovery. And she did too. A bright and optimistic soul, Paula never backed down from a fight, with anyone or anything, no matter how impossible, her health was no exception.

Now that she’s gone, I’ve had time to reassess what an inspiration she has been to me and to everyone else’s lives she touched. Paula was a fixture at every family gathering, art opening, and right of passage where my family was concerned for more than 40 years. She was the best and most caring of friends to my parents for as many years. I always thought of her more of as “my cool aunt” and at times, she was my second mother and as I became older, my dear friend. After so many years, her daughter Robin has become my honorary sister, her grandchildren, my nephews and godchildren. I make the promise to her that I will keep a close watch over them all as long as I’m able.

I would say that growing up, I spent more time at Paula and Robin’s house than I did at my own. When we were children, Paula was a magnificent painter with a studio at home. She made giant canvases with bright colors and fluid friendly forms. I always admired her talent even when I was little. An amazing chef and the first vegetarian I ever met, she made us the most delicious meals. I remember fried green tomatoes and okra, oh and the mac and cheese (!) that she would cook up in minutes. The fact that I still remember them today might tell you how delectable they really were! She took Robin and me everywhere in her red Karmann Ghia convertible with the top down and usually with a furry passenger – an afghan named Ivan if I am correct. She took us everywhere, to parties, poetry readings, concerts, art museums, antique shops and many times, to New Orleans, where we would sample oysters and then maybe something sweet like beignets and hot chocolate – she so loved the sweets!

Paula, mid 1980's, Savannah, GA

Paula was a tall cool drink with a shock of the reddest curly hair – and she had her share of admirers, however, she remained fiercely independent. She always wore the most beautifully patterned fabrics and scarves, all made by hand from all over the world. As you know, she lit up any room she walked into with her warm smile and friendly demeanor. I only remember seeing her cry once and that was at Robin’s father’s funeral.

I remember growing up, the parties at her house with live music, bon fires, great food and it was so crowded. Everyone loved her parties: her friends, Robin’s friends, everyone was welcome! People talked and argued politics, recited poetry, sang, played music and drank till the wee hours. She took me to my first anti-nuclear war protest and instilled in me to stand up for what’s right, no matter what the cost. She lived by example, even traveling far and wide to stand up for people of other nations. Paula was never one to sit still. Even when illness forced her to retire early, she made the effort to volunteer and help others; it’s just what she did and who she was, she was the “real deal”. She led a simple and frugal life by choice and set the example for all of us.

From left to right: daughter Robin, me, Paula and Rhianon Kjar

I remember a few years ago, she accompanied Robin on one of her annual treks to Austin, where I live now. Paula grew up there and lived on Camp Mabry, an air force base midtown. She asked if I would take her to see her childhood home. I said, sure, we can go drive by. We head to the neighborhood and drove around, not sure as to which house was right. Finally, she screams – this is the one! We stop and get out. She stands there and just looks at the house, verbalizing memories from so long ago. This used to be there, this tree is so much bigger and this was that color, and so on. We went up to the house and knocked on the door so we could talk to the owner. It was rented to a nice young man who answered. After talking with him, he invited us inside to look around. I know, hard to believe, but how could he resist her genuine nature and charismatic charm? She was just so pleased, beaming all the way through the house, all the way home and I imagine for a long time after. She confided in me she knew she would never be back and have the same opportunity again – a true check off her bucket list and not one bit of sadness about it. The night she died, our bedroom overhead light came on in the middle of the night. Never happened before or since. I am of the belief that she did come back to Austin one more time to say goodbye.

She does not leave us behind empty handed, but rather with her legacy: A beautiful and talented daughter with many of Paula’s best traits – fiercely independent and strong, selfless, creative, honest, and a protective and nurturing mother. Three grandsons – each thoroughly instilled with a greater sense of self-worth and each knowing the true meaning of respect for women, for the environment and for what it means to stand up for what’s right. Everyone touched by Paula’s kindness knows deep down what it feels like to be truly loved.

I keep telling myself that someone as effortless to love as our dear friend Paula was not meant to live a life of suffering and that she has been spared. I do take small comfort knowing she is resting in peace and that she leaves with us, the responsibility to try and fill the void she leaves behind.

Some numerology: She was 63 - the perfect number to be at complete harmony with the universe. 6 = 3+3, 3 and 6+3 added together, 9 = 3+3+3, if you follow that kind of thing. There are even three grandsons to provide her with the perfect balance in her life’s journey.

Ideas starting to take shape.

2010-01-21T21:02:00.013-06:00

I've been working on some watercolors and they seem to be missing an important element. I'm thinking if I start with the watercolors and drawing, then add back some of my geometric motifs, I might be on to something. Nothing to post yet, just thinking aloud, well, sort of. Organic forms meet formal abstraction.

Space: A Group Exhibition

2010-01-10T18:26:00.001-06:00

This is a link to a few pictures from the opening last night.

Andrea Pramuk's News: Space: A Group Exhibition

2010-01-09T22:38:00.000-06:00

Andrea Pramuk's News: Space: A Group Exhibition

Space: A Group Exhibition

2010-01-09T12:44:00.061-06:00

I have several "geometric collage" pieces in this exhibition. By the slim chance you're anywhere near this gallery in Montana, maybe stop in for the opening this evening or to see the show through Feb. 5th.

the art studio
daniel north, artist/owner
15 south central avenue

cut bank, montana 59427

tel: 406.229.1145

Space: A Group Exhibition
An exhibition featuring nationally exhibited artists exploring interpretations of space in modern society and contemporary art.

January 9, 2010 – February 5, 2010

Wine & Cheese Opening Reception:

Saturday, January 9th, 5-9pm

Front: “4 Days” by Andrea Pramuk

Oil, watercolor, collage and pencil on

Ampersand Aquabord, 11"x14", $350

Here is a link to the studio's blog with photos from the exhibition last night.

What a great idea!

2010-01-07T20:10:00.013-06:00

I set up my first blog today at work and I thought this might be a good forum to share my own news, art and general philosophies about life. Why the heck not? "You too can build a web page your own self". I can't believe how much easier this was to set up than back in the "olden" days of building websites.