Hi friends,

It’s June · Summertime · Another transition · Happy Summer Solstice!

Solstice comes from the Latin words sol, meaning “Sun” and sistere, meaning to come to a stop or stand still. On the day of the June solstice, the Sun reaches its northernmost position, as seen from the Earth. At that moment, its zenith does not move north or south, as during most other days of the year, but stands still at the Tropic of Cancer. It then reverses its direction and starts moving south again. The opposite happens during the December solstice. 

I’ve been feeling a bit like this; to come to a stop or stand still. In the ‘before times' this would have created a feeling of uncertainty, of chaos and anxiety, and because I wasn’t continually moving forward, perhaps a feeling of failure. Now I am standing still on purpose. I am thinking carefully about, well everything, in order to make a decision about what to do next. I am making sure I am grounded. I’ll need to do this more than twice a year, but I appreciate the intentionality that sistere shares.

With that in mind, I am happy to say that I don’t have much to report this month, at least not productivity wise. I spent two weekends at Jazz Fest and went to see two fantastic exhibits at the SPACE Gallery. ‘The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery 2021 Members Exhibition’ Group show by 50 Member Artists! I also saw,  ‘Holding Pattern’ a Solo Installation by Christy Mitchell. Both shows are up now through  August 7, 2021. I finished the weekend with a mind-blowing, soul-nourishing performance by the Resistance Revival Chorus on Sunday evening, where Jazzfest concluded with the centering of joyful voices of color. We really need more of that.

I’m writing this as the Governor is announcing he is lifting all COVID restrictions. I am cautiously optimistic about these changes. And even though it would be safe to start hosting events, I am taking the summer to really think about what is needed in our city; in relationship to art, justice, and community. I have a few workshops this summer (see below), and am working on a project for Art Hop. I plan to re-start events this fall, but in the meantime, I will continue to send a monthly newsletter, and will soon be able to share some updates about some projects in the works.

Please don’t forget to take time to enjoy yourself and your loved ones. Your work will always be there.

Be safe, be there for each other, be well.

jen

Events and Announcements

River Arts - Community-Engaged Printmaking: Block Printing on Fabric Flags.
Registration open!      Saturday July 10. 12-4pm
 

Shelburne Craft School - Workshops 011: Craft Summer Program. July 19, 20, 21

Students will learn the basics of linoleum cutting and printmaking, and will also create their own glass mosaic frame. We will construct wood & glass frames together as a collection of framed stories, for viewers to enjoy.

Ages (9-12). Students who will turn 9 by June 1st, 2020, are welcome to sign-up.
 

Calling Vermont artists! Casella Waste Systems, Inc. is seeking design applications for a mural to be painted on their “Resource Rover.” The Resource Rover is Casella’s interactive learning tool, aimed towards helping people understand the mechanisms and individuals that keep our communities clean.
The artist chosen to paint the mural on the container will win a $2000 commission, as well as $500 to the charitable organization of their choosing. If you have interest in the project, please send a design application and/or message to eliza.ligon@casella.com by June 25, 2021 (deadline to be extended)
 

Sit with it & See is offering an intensive workshop session with poet, non-fiction writer and former professor Cinse Bonino.

• DISCOVER the biggest lie you tell yourself about yourself.
• LEARN where this lie came from and what it invites you to do
• CRAFT your genuine foundational truth

Join three other participants at one of the 3 sessions offered in July. 
More info here: https://www.seechoosedo.com/sit-with-it-see