Back to work

Picking up where I left off to work for a couple of months for the Census which turned in to eight months.

First thing, I got a new card into production. Watch for the reveal in two weeks. It's an existing image presented in a new way. Exploring possibilities while I prepare for a future project. More on that later. While preparing the image for printing I learned a new method to convert my line drawings so they can easily go from paper where they are drawn to a digital version so they can be printed with a fraction of the effort I was putting into it before this. I wish I knew this before but you know the old saying, better late than never.

Then I revamped all of my packaging so everything will have a new look starting in November (just in time for the holidays). Basically I am tying up a bunch of loose ends so I can get back to work (fun really).

The Pelican

I have an interesting project in the works using the letterpress printing process that I am excited to share. Letterpress originated in the 1400s and was the primary form of printing and communication for more than 500 years. Over time it has evolved into an art form. Letterpress printing creates pieces that have a fascinating tactile relief quality setting it apart from offset or digital print processes.

The image is from my collection of drawings I created of Timberline Lodge on Mt Hood in Oregon. The hand carved newel posts on the stairs are just some of the fascinating features within the lodge. Each post features a different bird or animal of the Pacific Northwest. This particular card was an experiment and I have to say, I am beyond delighted with how it turned out.

This card measures 5" x 7", blank on the inside so it's perfect for any occasion. The tactile effect from the print process is simply luxurious on heavy textured cardstock. The finish of the paper is perfect for writing short or long notes using a ball point, marker or traditional ink pen. The card comes with a simple white envelope perfect for mailing. Printed for me by Letterpress PDX (the best). Available as individual cards and also in sets.  

#penandink #sketching #timberlinelodge #mthood #oregon #notecards #newcards #newproduct #letterpress #letterpressprinting #shoplocal #shopsmall #oregonmade #letterpresspdx #bonnywagoner

The Beaverton Arts Mix begins today

 

Most organizations in this year of dealing with a pandemic first postponed their venues, then one by one cancelled them. You should see my white board where I plan my commitments. Dates are crossed out and replaced with Cancelled. Cancelled. Cancelled. The City of Beaverton arts program pivoted their plans and were able to make it possible for the show to be held on-line. They put a huge amount of work into making sure their annual show would happen. It opens today:

http://beavertonoregon.gov/BAM
Please share.  

I am tickled pink three of my watercolors were selected for this show. I wish you could see them in person but I am grateful for the opportunity to be included in the virtual show.  My pieces are for sale so if you would like to add something to your collection, contact me.  

#BeavertonArts #beavertonartsmix #beavertonoregon #watercolor #watercolorpainting #flowers #painting flowers #hydranchea #oregon #bonnywagoner

Another home portrait for Portland.

This particular portrait was difficult to finish not because of a particular challenge level. I took what I expected to be a short gig back in January working for the Census until my normal travel and tourism projects could be worked starting (normally) in the spring.  As you know nothing about this year is normal.  The great pause came along so I started doing these home portraits to bridge the work gap.  Then the Census started back only now they have to make up for lost time so it's really very intense. My pre-planned travel and tourism design plans are still dead in the water so I've hung in there with the Census.  I've been going so many days without a day off that I'm starting to lose track of what day of the week it is. Anyway, a half hour here, a half hour there... I finally finished this one. Watercolor on hot press cotton paper.

Just FYI

I haven't been posting lately because I'm doing some work for the dicentennial census.  They are working me to death (slight exaggeration) but it's safe to say I probably won't have much to post until I finish up with them.  

Old Hwy 30

New card from a watercolor in my sketchbook.  

I really liked this image so I decided to add it to my note card collection.  

A new prototype - Portland Bridges

New card design featuring a map of Portland with all of the bridges noted.  I really had fun with this... I made my own font, refreshed my knowledge of how to use Illustrator and incorporated a city sketch in pen and ink and watercolor from the east bank of the Willamette River looking at downtown Portland.  It's a fun mashup of digital and traditional methods.