The kit includes: A high quality signed archival print with a certificate of authenticity, a GST tarot deck signed on both the box cover and the little white book or "LWB", a signed "extra" card, and a custom original colored pencil drawing using a keyword of your choice. Everything is wrapped with loving care to assure safe delivery.

I’m offering a Ghosts & Spirits Tarot limited edition kit numbered 25. As of this writing, nearly 10 orders have been placed by individuals from as far away as Thailand. I’m always excited to put packages of my art creations together for people. For the custom colored-pencil drawings, the keywords so far have included: raven, enchantment, cat, Rainbow Bridge, dreamer and reincarnation. I don’t pre-plan these pieces, but allow the automatic function of my subconscious to deliver the image or mental “impression” onto the page. The results are undiluted energies that reflect the unfettered creative spirit. I love making art and hope the recipients will connect with these snippets of vivacity.

"Enchantment", "Rainbow Bridge" and "Raven". These "impressions" were rendered using colored-pencil on cold-press watercolor paper.

The print is of excellent quality and perfectly captures the richness of the original paintings. I’m quite pleased with the quality of the paper and inks and thank Kort (hubby and assistant) for designing the layout of the images. Also, the Ghosts & Spirits Tarot deck feels nice and sturdy in the hand. I’m happy with the results and hope you will be too! If you would like to order a limited edition Ghosts & Spirits Tarot kit, visit Lisa’s Ghosts & Spirits Tarot page for availability and ordering information. Please be sure to include a keyword for the “Impressions” drawing.

***

Meanwhile, I finally finished the Grouse-Shapeshifter watercolor painting. I posted the initial sketch back in December, but allowed this piece to rest until I felt compelled to tackle the rather challenging subject matter. After spying the finished drawing from the corner of my studio, feelings of guilt started penetrating my internal muse. I couldn’t ignore the grouse any longer. I picked up the art board, placed it in on my art table and got immediately hooked. Once I started painting, that was it. I lost myself to the drumbeat of the intriguing forest dweller and felt myself yearning to bring it to vivid life.

It took a long time to capture depth and detail. I don’t know if it was the watercolor paper’s sizing (or if it was because I let the stretched paper sit around for months), but the surface kept sucking in the pigment as if the forest was thirsty. This made color application somewhat tedius, but the end result was a richness and warmth that really helped elevate the image’s luminosity.

sequence of painting-in-progress

Part of being a watercolorist is learning how to work with the unpredictable. For me, this is partially what makes the medium exciting! There is no erase or undo button, there is no opaque savior and there are no do-overs. You either get the medium to work with you or you don’t. I find it has a rather anthropomorphic quality to it—and feel that going-with-the-flow is the most effective relationship you can establish with these wonderful paints. In my humble opinion, if you don’t feel challenged or a wee bit on edge when using watercolors, you’re probably doing something wrong.

In other Hunt-Kramerville news:

May has been an exciting time for the kids: Kyra accepted her ‘Reflections’ art award with her other school-mates as our local Congressman Ted Deutch stood by. For those of you who have been following Hunt-Kramerville news, Kyra spent hours upon hours, days, weeks working on her “Sunset Sea” entry. We were so proud that she placed 2nd in her age group. Yeay Kyra!

Kyra and the other winners being recognized for their work. BTW, Kyra insisted on wearing a purple tu-tu to the event. Who am I to argue with an aspiring artist's wardrobe choice?

And here’s Kyra playing for the Spring piano recital at Lynn Preparatory. It’s the first time she admitted to having butterflies in her stomach before going on stage. The boy behind her cried his eyes out before entering the auditorium. I believe going on stage is a frightening prospect for most people and our usually confident 7 year old was no exception. I’m impressed with anyone who can perform in front of a live audience. Fortunately, once on stage, Kyra handled herself with complete composure, even when her music sheet flew off the piano. Watch the video to see her flawless catch. The “technical difficulties” are definitely grooming her for future performances.

Last but not least:

Connor, the more solitary artist (like his Mom).

I think this is kind of a cute piece, despite the typo.

~ Lisa 

Finished drawing of Hawk-Shapeshifter - graphite on watercolor paper.

Vancouver-based author and bird expert, Lesley Morrison: "Learning to respond to your inner visions in the physical world is likewise something you will develop as you grow in hawk/falcon vision, as well as your ability to trust in that which you see."

Hawk-Shapeshifter is another piece that evolved rather spontaneously on the page. I began by drawing the head, using my friend Lesley Morrison as inspiration. Lesley expressed interest in being portrayed as hawk and the more I progressed through the drawing, the more I can see why it’s a good match for this bright, young woman. As I drew (in radiating motions from the face outward), it became apparent that this piece would encompass vistas and layers of landscapes—internal and external. I wanted to capture a sense of adventure, hope, creative thinking and optimism by merging feather, flight and inspiring glimpses through a daydreaming lens. To me, these are fundamental components for writers, artists, musicians and anyone who chooses a creative path.

“Hawk is considered a visionary in many cultural traditions, and is often a totem of those who have bold and original ideas. Those with a hawk totem have sharp minds and keen intellects, and are able to detect the slightest movement of energy around them. Many hawk totem people have acute psychic abilities, and have mastered their inner vision by trusting what they see. Part of the visionary power of the hawk totem is using its power to help the world in some creative way”~Lesley Morrison from her book: The Healing Wisdom of Birds: An Everyday Guide to Their Spiritual Songs & Symbolism (I highly recommend this book!).

Are you a hawk totem person? Are you helping the world in some creative way? Are you learning to let go and trust what you see?

In other Hunt-Kramerville news.

We have given our house a name! For those of you who have ever visited my home or who have glimpsed pictures of “cozy corners”, our home is our fairy tale sanctuary.

Here we believe that creativity is essential for an inspiring life.

We all love toys including Timmy. We encourage imaginative play and enjoy watching kids and cat engage their storytelling senses.

Art follows all of us everywhere, even out on the driveway.

Who need video games and expensive gadgets when you can just give 'em chalk!

Here's Connor drawing one of his amorphous characters.

Some of the kids' chalk drawings

Meanwhile, us parents sit on the sidelines and watch the chalk show!

And what does Connor do to relax and recharge his batteries? Well, draw of course. I truly believe my preteen processes his anxieties through this creative outlet. Anyone who knows Connor says he’s a “great kid” though some might think otherwise if they judged him by his “scary” drawings!

This is Connor's latest artistic direction. He calls this one "Combobulator".

And here’s Kyra with her latest school project. She was required to choose a famous woman in History and decorate a can in the woman’s likeness. Kyra went “overboard” and created an entire scene including a panoramic landscape painting inspired by the art and writings of Beatrix Potter. Kyra had read the entire Beatrix Potter “Little Books” collection in addition to her requisite biographical research.

Kyra's love for Beatrix Potter shined through her creative efforts.

Art is life! Treat everything you do as if it’s a new adventure.

~ Lisa

A Yuletide gift from my dear friend Cindy Coombe

The transition from 2011 to 2012 was a mix of excitement and tumult. We finally finished our kitchen, with a mere few days to spare before visitors descended on Chez Hunt-Kramerville. During that period of “out with the old/in with the new”–my press proofs for Ghosts & Spirits Tarot finally arrived. The smell of new kitchen and fresh press proof sheets were acute reminders of how life is constantly changing. It feels good to enter 2012 with a sense of newness and fresh opportunities. We also added a few home accouterments that helped to enhance our abode including the above new message on our reading room wall. My friend of 25 years sent this incredibly thoughtful gift to me as it so encapsulates what I do. I toyed with putting in my studio, but felt it was an important message to share with the whole family. We’re a wee bit creatively eccentric here, so this quote resonates for us all.

Dark, rich and delicious. The proofs are stunning like sinfully mouthwatering chocolates, at least that's how I feel!

Meanwhile in the studio, my family was as excited about the Ghosts press proofs as I was. These are by far my darkest, rawest, most subconsciously driven works to date. I really surprised myself with this body of work. I didn’t know I had it in me! But obviously things had to come out, and boy did the ghosts pour through keyholes in the mind.

Kort and the kids holding up the Ghost goodies.

Here I am holding the cover proof. This is what a box would look like if flattened. Lots of careful planning for the designer! Also, my fans chose the cover art! Yup---we had a vote on Facebook and "Snow Ghost" prevailed. For those who voted for "King Hamlet", it was decided that his presence would grace the back of the box, so everyone wins!

I’ve also been “letting go” of some original watercolor and pencil artwork, much of it published as I realize I can’t hold on to them forever and prefer if they would be in the hands of those who would truly treasure my creations. Here are some samples of reasonable offerings I’ve made exclusively through my Lisa Hunt Art Group Facebook page. So far, everything I’ve posted has sold which is really nice. I also know that my customers are getting wonderful deals for original art with an added personal touch. Thank you for your continued support. Keep an eye for future art postings!

This is a watercolor illustration for a book entitled Magickal Mermaids and was sold to Mary.

This one was a book cover image for "The Guide to Little People" and sold to Kelli.

This monochromatic watercolor painting appeared in D.J. Conway's Elemental Magick. I added a remarque on the mat board. As of this posting, this piece was still for sale.

In other Hunt-Kramerville news:

The kids have winter break, so it was nice to see Kyra being creative as she was teaching herself how to draw fairies, elves and princesses. She is adamant that I don't help her as she thinks she's already better at drawing them than I am. Hahahah!

Connor, having just earned his Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do "Foot and Hand Way" has been studying anatomy. He did a pretty good job drawing his own arms on notebook paper. I like the fact that he colorized them with his new colored pencil set.

And last but not least…

After 15 years in darkness, Kort has finally graduated to an office with a window. He seems much happier these days as a result! Congrats Kort!

Happy Hunky Hubby in his new workspace

Wishing everyone a fabulous 2012!

~Lisa

Spirit Drawings

I just mailed out the last of holiday orders—drawing right up until the last possible moment to assure delivery of goodies. I can happily report that I have completed and mailed almost 40 Spirit Drawings in the last few months (Yes, I’m still taking orders). What a ride and what a great way to keep everything energized in the studio!  In between working on commissions for people from around the world, I managed to finish up Ghosts and Spirits Tarot (at the printer as I write), and work on paintings for my Bird project.

Here are a few newly rendered drawings stretched on boards and ready for paint:

Pencil renderings of Robin-Shapeshifter and Grouse-Shapeshifter. Robin-Shapeshifter illustrates dawning of the new, resurrection and birth--appropriate as we approach another year cycle.

With one eye on the 2011 hourglass, I’m cleaning up the studio and am reflecting on the approaching holidays. In my house we fully embrace the magic of this time of year. Our yearly ritual entails discarding clutter and old energy in anticipation of the new year ahead and the sense of renewal that accompanies it.  What will you be doing to prepare for 2012? Do you plan to break any chains and let go of those things that are weighing you down?

Jacob Marley and his chains from the Ghost and Spirits Tarot. The painting was still stapled on the watercolor board when this was scanned.

15 Chains (Jacob Marley)

In A Christmas Carol, Jacob Marley was Ebenezer Scrooge’s business partner and only friend. On Christmas Eve, the anniversary of Marley’s death, his ghost paid Scrooge an unexpected visit. The ghost’s chains, cash box and padlocks encumbered his spirit and served as reminders of his material-driven life. Marley comes to his parsimonious partner as a symbol of this potential dreadful fate, telling him to expect three spirit encounters. The ghost of Jacob Marley hangs in limbo as the shadows of an illusionary life keep his spirit in a state of stasis.

Divinatory meaning: You are harboring obsessive desires that cannot fill an empty void. Instead, it is weighing you down with deep-seated dissatisfaction. Open your eyes to the truth and start recognizing what is truly important.

(From the Ghosts & Spirits Tarot, due to be published early 2012)

In other Hunt-Kramerville news:

After almost 7 years of intense training, our 11 year old son earned his Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. With his Black Belt, his Master finally cut off his Padawan braid. Connor transitioned from boy to young man—with his Black Belt heart and mind there to navigate him through his challenging middle grade years (yes, bullies are a persistent fixture in the preteen landscape). There is something to wearing a Black Belt—it alters a person and makes the individual feel keenly aware of one’s environment. It also instills a confidence that goes with having journeyed from an unaware white belt to a humbled black belt who has learned to expect the unexpected. Once a black belt, one’s perception is forever altered: from the ashes rises the warrior ready to take on life’s challenges with perspicacious intent. Connor holds his head higher, appears more focused and exudes a positive energy that says “here’s a good, conscientious guy”. I’m proud of what he’s accomplished and feel confident that he will remain on the path of good character and future achievement.

Connor's Black Belt ceremony. Photos by Kort Kramer 2011

Meanwhile, here’s a clip from our 7 year old daughter’s recital.

Her piano professor, who is a brilliant musician and masterful instructor, told me “She is going to be great when she’s eight!”. We’ll see, but for now, I’m enjoying watching this ray of sunshine grow.

At the Lynn University Conservatory venue in Boca Raton where Kyra performed

Kyra performing while her teacher looks on. It's a good sign that he's smiling!

Wishing everyone a very healthy happy holiday and an inspirational year ahead!

~Lisa

My 30th Spirit Drawing!

After taking a week off to work on remodeling the kitchen, I came back to the studio with an abundance of stored-up creative energy. The result was successive, almost explosive dances with my pencils. It was like entering a traffic-less highway with just miles and miles of open roadway ahead; the horizon serving as an endless canvas of ideas.

Here are some Spirit Drawings I worked on during this fortuitous week

Spirit Drawings based on customers' "Key Spirit Words".

After creating 30 drawings for wonderful individuals around the world, I’m still excited and fresh with every new drawing. If you would like to order a Spirit Drawing, I would be happy to create an original pencil drawing based on YOUR ideas. Visit my holiday specials or Spirit Drawings page for more information.

http://ghostsandspiritstarot.com/spirit_drawings.html

And here are a few drawings I’m working on for the bird project. This week I’m focusing on drawing Robin-Shapeshifter, Grouse-Shapeshifter and Bluejay-Shapeshifter (not pictured here).

Spontaneous drawing on watercolor paper. Works-in-Progress

My kids picked up on their fiery mama’s creative vibes and were decidedly studio companions after school. Kyra did her first drawing for Alphabeasts, an open submission online gallery of fantastical beasts.

Kyra's submission for "G" (age 7)

In other Hunt-Kramerville news:

A display of Rankin/Bass figurines. The 1960's stop-motion animations were among my favorites as a child.

Connor absconded with "Herbie the Elf (dentist wannabee)" and built him a lego machine.

Also, both Kyra and Connor made honor roll this past fall semester. I’m very proud of my children’s good studying habits. I made it clear that creative ideas come more easily when one reads and studies a lot! So far, my parenting strategy is working.

Connor's honor roll certificate. He's now a viable candidate for AP classes.

And last but not least, Mom aka “Omi” turned 70. Happy Birthday Omi!

Mom with Kyra and Connor on her 70th Birthday. 70 is no longer old age!

~ Lisa

Artist and model Tamara Newman sent me a beautiful photo of herself to use as inspiration for a bird shapeshifter piece. I immediately knew I had to draw her. I loved how she pulled up her hair and looked to the sky as if she was about to open her wings and fly into the heavens of endless possibilities.

Tamara, hailing from the United Kingdom exhibits her work at various art festivals and has had work published in FAE Magazine and The Magical Times. Her magical creations are also sold in specialty shops in Glastonbury and Cornwall. Tamara boasts a strong following of admirers and fans with her versatile presentations. I love her dragon font!

Tamara, a beautiful lady and an accomplished artist in her own right.

Everything about her posture, her countenance, her coloring and even her fantasy artwork made me gravitate to the barn swallow. Lesley Morrison, who is writing the companion book for the “bird project”  (to be published by U.S. Games) e-mailed me some thoughts about the swallow and the powerful energies that they possess:

“The swallow is a herald of many interesting energies. It is precision of flight, innocence of spirit, upward movement, and a link to many powerful deities. Swallow has mastered agility, whirling in flight and changing direction in midair to capture its prey.

Swallow is a harmony, balancing the peaceful and chaotic faces of life. It is a hope that wherever our dreams may dance we will master the instincts to catch them.” ~Lesley Morrison, author of The Healing Wisdom of Birds

Painting of Thumbelina flying with her swallow friend from The Fairy Tale Tarot (Llewellyn 2009)

I’ve always loved the swallow and relished painting one in flight for the beloved fairy tale, Thumbelina. I’ve always viewed this bird as a harbinger for a happily ever after, with its fantastical fae-like presence. It darts as it flies with its swift, incisive movements—almost as if it is in play, teasing human observers with it’s unpredictable movements.

“The swallow is an auspicious symbol of hope and renewal. It glides over the waters of the unconscious, where dreams and collective myths flow. The bird and girl fly through mists, leaving their troubles behind.” ~excerpt from The Fairy Tale Tarot

I started with a sketch, taking design/layout and anatomy all into consideration.

Then I refined it by working out the anatomical kinks. Photos tend to distort and in this case, the arms are largely obscured by shadow and fabric, so I drew out the bones and muscles and adjusted their size to give the drawing an elegant, aesthetic quality. Once I felt I had a solid drawing to work from, I rubbed the back of the tracing with graphite before redrawing it onto a stretched sheet of ARCHES 140 lb. watercolor paper.

The traced-down image serves as a basic template for the final drawing. After many hours of intense rendering with a fine arts mindset accompanying every stroke, I felt the drawing was finished. As you can see, much of the drawing is created spontaneously on the watercolor paper. These days, I rarely over plan the tracing—I just let the details emerge without formulaic construct. This helps me connect with the image on a deep, soulful level without distractions.

Detail of face

——————————–

In Hunt-Kramerville news:

Goodbye old kitchen! Little do people know that the woman behind the soft pencil drawings and delicate watercolor paintings has been slowly remodeling her house the frugal way–with her own hammer and nails.
I grew up amid construction, having helped my family build their house when I was a little girl (now my wise old Pop advises and helps me with my house). Believe it or not, the physical demands of home improvement tasks actually feed the intense creative spates in my studio. It’s the act of renewing something that breathes fresh air into cognitive streams. I don’t get artist’s block because I build blocks, so to speak, between brainstorming sessions. This balance between home improvement and artistic expansion is a satisfying way to move through my middle years. My feet are solidly on the ground, yet I can still spread my wings.

Connor will be taking his black belt test in December. Cutting off the *padawan* braid will be part of Connor’s transition to Junior Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. Poor Kippers won’t be able to perch on it anymore.

~ Lisa

Parrot-Shapeshifter on the table with photographic reference

I’m not a big fan of using photographic reference. For me, I feel it tends to impede my creative flow. But sometimes a photograph will provide the artist with a peek at the world from a new point of view. When I rely too much on my own mental resources without refreshing the internal well, there is a potential for stagnation and redundancy. I’ve seen this happen to other artists and it scares me about myself. If an artist keeps taking the path of least resistance, it can get boring to the viewer. My favorite artists tend to be those who keep it fresh by expanding their repertoire while maintaining an air of humility about their work. They are the forever-learners who push and push and push never letting ego hinder the process.

My own favorite pieces tend to be ones that I consciously move into edgy realms of new possibilities. It’s like peering over a cliff and taking that leap without knowing exactly where and how you’re going to land. I think it’s important for an artist to be conscious of potential failure without fearing it. Fear and ego are often closely aligned. Let go and see your work fly!  If a painting doesn’t work, it’s not the end of the world but the beginning of further understanding and growth.

doodling ideas in sketchbook

With Parrot-Shapeshifter, I felt I needed to change up my palette so to speak and knew the extraordinary spirit that is the author/artist Emily Carding was just the energetic boost I needed.  Anyone who has acquainted her/himself with this amazing woman will know exactly what I’m talking about.

Photo of Emily Carding by Anna Simon

Lesley Morrison, author of The Healing Wisdom of birds, describes Parrot as, “A magnificent species of bird, parrots give the medicine of color to the world, and the healing everyone experiences through its beauty.  People who carry parrot medicine are often drawn to the visual arts, even costume design, or wherever they can work with colors on a daily basis.”

photo reference and inital watercolor paint washes

Who better to pose for the chromatic Parrot-Shapeshifter than a fellow artist whose work encapsulates the essence of parrot energy? Emily is a woman who exudes vibrant charisma as a photogenic model/actor and as an accomplished artist and writer. She has published many works including the brilliantly executed Transparent Tarot. She has many well-received decks with Schiffer Books and is currently working on projects entitled the Simple Wisdom of the Household Dog and Faery Crafy, both due out next year. You can learn more about the lovely Emily by visiting her website:  www.childofavalon.com.

I asked Emily to say a few words about being “Parrot-Shapeshifter” and was surprised by her reply, indicative of her generous spirit:

” I have been a fan of Lisa’s work since long before I was ever published myself so I am honoured beyond words to be the inspiration behind this extraordinary piece of art. When Lisa asked whether there was a particular bird I felt a connection with, I gave her free choice as I was curious to see what she would choose. The parrot both surprised and delighted me- the more I look at it, the more I realise how perfect a choice it is. I think Lisa has really outdone herself with the extraordinary colour and detail, as well as her trademark touch of magic!” ~Emily Carding, November 2011

Thank you Em — xo

Here’s what you helped make happen…

The finished Parrot-Shapeshifter painting.

While sketching Parrot-Shapeshifter, it became clear to me that I really needed to look at some good close-up shots of parrots. I wanted to understand those delicious patterns on the feathers and felt it was necessary to acquire good reference. I asked my friend and local photographer Moxie Nox if she would be willing to provide me with photos from one of her outings to a local sanctuary.

Moxie's amazing close-up of parrot. Look at the details!

I was delighted by the many poses and skillful zooms that she was able to provide for me. Please check out her website and friend her on Facebook. She is a delightful, insightful woman who has so many gifts to share. www.moxienox.com

“I’ve always been fascinated by the birds and enjoy taking pictures of them. I’m very fortunate to live very close to Flamingo Gardens (Davie, Florida) where I love to go often; to lose myself in photographing the birds and other wildlife that reside there. It’s pure magic in those Gardens.” ~Moxie Nox aka Melissa Ritchey

Many of us artists tend to be studio hermits and even semi-recluses, but the richness of our work often includes the outside world and how we see and feel about everything around us. This includes the symbiotic exchanges that artists often share—full of mutual support and words of inspiration and of course, helpful critiques! I’m fortunate to have largely avoided artist’s block during my 25 year career and credit this for having nurtured and maintained many diverse relationships with kindred creative spirits. Thank you Em and Moxie and thank you everyone who has touched me in ways that have nurtured my art!

In Hunt-Kramerville news: The house of continual creative messes

Speaking of vibrant colors: Here’s Kyra’s PTA 2011 “Reflections” art project submission. This year’s theme is “Diversity”. She recently completed a unit on coral reefs at school and decided to apply her knowledge about biodiversity and symbiosis to her art. Kort and I are extremely impressed with her  innate talents and undeterred confidence. She knew what she wanted to do and went ahead and did it. I thought the whole cut-away idea was really cool! As soon as we get it back, it’s going to be professionally framed.

"Sunset Sea" by Kyra Kramer

Here’s a picture of Connor in his Halloween costume that he designed and made himself. Unfortunately, he claimed the discomfort of wearing it made it hard to trick or treat!

Connor in his homemade Iron Man costume (his comic book hero of choice at present) Photo: Jonathan Hunt 2011

~Lisa

Bear Spirit and Celtic Shaman Healer

Mermaid Dreams and Bird Spirit

These drawings are rendered on quality paper using graphite. They’re mounted on foam core board and are lovingly wrapped with protective cellophane. They take approximately two weeks from initial order to delivery. A “spirit drawing” certificate of authenticity is included.

Each original drawing is beautifully wrapped with my own hands.

This certificate of authenticity was designed by the talented Kort Kramer and is signed by me!

If you are interested in ordering an original drawing at an affordable $28.00, please visit my Spirits Drawings page at my Ghosts & Spirits website.

In other Hunt-Kramerville news…

Connor putting his graphic novel writing/drawing skills to good use!

Connor is a chip off the ol’ block. He has figured out that embellishing one’s Language Arts writing assignments with accompanying illustrations is a great way to engage the reader (and hopefully the teacher). I used to do this too and still do!

And… Kyra took and passed her Green Belt test. She has definitely inherited my “Wildhorse” spirit, though I can’t kick as well as she can. Congratulations Kyra!

Kyra doing a front kick. Watch out!

~Lisa

Final pencil drawing of Loon-Shapeshifter

I was and still am a daydreamer. What does that oft misunderstood term mean? For me, it’s about letting my foot dangle in the cool waters of dream imagery—where the slightest, most unassuming thing can initiate a fit of reverie, active imagination, and fantasizing. Basically, when I’m not drawing, painting or writing, I’m thinking about drawing, painting and writing, at least on a subconscious level. I would fathom to guess that most artists have similar pangs and whims as they go about their days.

6h grader Lisa (1979) with "her head in the clouds" (cloud photo/montage by Kort Kramer)

Art is part of a daily response to my environment, my life, my being. As a child, this posed Calvin and Hobbes-style issues as I suffered through long days as a hopelessly bored sixth grader. Those fits of ennui were relieved by an escape to a mental window of imagination; inhabited by the fantastical that made their conscious markings as doodles in my notebook. During a conference my teacher told my father “Lisa has her head in the clouds”, something my father and I now chuckle about. Though at the time, I felt like a misunderstood outsider who just didn’t connect with the ramblings transpiring in the classroom. Thank goodness for those yonder clouds that offered me refuge–they have given me a lifetime of artistic outpouring. Like the loon half in the water, I too feel between worlds where my conscious reality helps to paint the pictures situated in the unconscious mind and vice versa!

Doodling ideas for Loon-Shapeshifter (from my sketchbook)

Feeling the mysterious through sketches and notes

This is the passage that inspired the sketches, written by avid bird watcher/wildlife rescuer and author Lesley Morrison. Lesley is composing the beautiful descriptions that are accompanying my bird paintings.

Final pencil tracing for watercolor paper (the old fashioned way). My husband Kort as inspiration for Loon-Shapeshifter. He too is a daydreamer.

And here are a couple of more Daydream Believers residing in Hunt-Kramerville.

Keep on daydreaming on!

~ Lisa

Me with my Mommy 1968-69 (Mom called me her "Wildhorse")

Mom was a stunning woman. She had that jaw-dropping beauty that made heads turn. She reminded me of Elizabeth Montgomery from Bewitched fame, a TV show I loved watching as a kid. From my point of view, Mom breathed magic. But more than that, Mom was an artist and a darn good storyteller too. She was beautiful and brilliant, everything I hoped to be.  She is a voracious reader and can recite Göethe verbatim; with a deep understanding that reflects a woman of great intelligence. Her own love of books certainly fostered my book-collecting habits!

Mom's childhood--fantasies, dreams and all

When she was a little girl, drawing, telling stories, and reading were her passions. She made beautiful books and earned A’s in writing class for her extraordinary talents, often compensating for her less than stellar performance in those subjects she had little interest in. She saved these fully-illustrated treasures that I am now gratefully in possession of. As a child, I pored over her sketches and wondered how she could pluck so many ideas out of  thin air and sketch with such technical facility. I remember how badly I wanted to draw as well as she did and I’m quite sure those creations from her formative years impacted mine.

Mom's homemade books created during her teen years. She titled them "Freetime" and "Our Three Girl House" (about life with 2 sisters).

As a child, my mom's drawings were awe-inspiring!

Mom's writing and pen and ink work were beautiful!

Oh, how I loved this drawing. It had a wonderful narrative quality.

Like Mom, I excelled at what I loved to do but tended to get bored when something failed to inspire (something both my mom and I regret about ourselves). But Mom was the one who showed me how interesting history could be, by giving me the human side of past triumphs and failings. The intricacies of the human condition were often glossed over in educational texts, but mom helped to fill in the gaps and fed my lifelong interest in mythos and analytical psychology.

Mom spoke “gemischt” with me—both English and German. My early childhood books were comprised of two languages. In fact, I spoke German before I spoke English, though I didn’t find this out until much later. Eventually English took over, but my love for Märchen (fairy tales) never dissipated. If you look closely at the photo, you will recognize subject matter that later served as my basic imaginative palette for writing and illustrating.

My favorite childhood books that I still have and cherish.

You can imagine how delighted I was when The Fairy Tale Tarot was translated into German…

The Fairy Tale Tarot available in both English and German.

Due to life circumstances, mom never pursued an art/writing career, but she has always been supportive of mine. She has even posed for me, most recently as The Hermit from Fantastical Creatures Tarot.

Mom as a Hermit, still breathing magic (From Fantastical Creatures Tarot published by US Games Systems)

Mom and I didn’t always see eye to eye (as moms and daughters are notorious for butting heads!), but as I grow older —I am understanding and appreciating her more and more; especially as my own “Wildhorse” daughter shows some of the same interests and proclivities that Mom and I share. Mom was and is one of my biggest inspirations. I hope I can be just like her when I grow up!

Thank you, Mom.

One of my favorite pictures of Mom and I taken at a Renaissance Fair in 1988.

~ Lisa