Image | July 2, 2014July 2, 2014 | Karen Altschul

I’m teaching art classes again this summer, and these are some of my favorite projects from session 1.

Self-portraits with visions of summer sunglasses

color theory exercise

Zentangle portrait

Paper bag people

For this next project they had a partner help draw the initial shapes. They took turns making lines, and each had to make 5. It was a way to get the students to work abstractly, instead of trying to draw something specific, as well as a method of filling the page. It also turned out to be a good way to work with others, relax control issues, and a wonderful expressive exercise.

Happy 2014

January 1, 2014January 1, 2014 | Karen Altschul

Started the year with some prosecco at midnight, good friends, some mild drama, and good intentions. The morning was spent alone with coffee, steadily falling snow, peace, and still the good intentions.

Books from my childhood

October 12, 2013October 12, 2013 | Karen Altschul

Was at the bookstore last night, and found some Ruth Chew books on the shelf. Joy! I loved these witchy little books, and love the pencil illustrations.

Buon giorno!

October 5, 2013October 5, 2013 | Karen Altschul

The whole day is ahead of us. Starting off with my latte, and a strong feeling of Florence. It’s still and grey, and there will be lots of wandering with the camera.

Recent Works

September 23, 2013September 23, 2013 | Karen Altschul

http://gallery.clcillinois.edu/about.cfm

One photo was accepted into the CLC Wright Community gallery of art Recent Works show. It’s called “Fun”.

Florence

September 22, 2013 | Karen Altschul

I had a dream last night that I was returning to Italy. I lived there for a semester, twenty years ago. I have often dreamed of being back in Florence, and I always walk down the street, knowing exactly when to turn to get to my favorite pastry shop. I buy the little oval shaped crust with the rice custard, and I can feel it’s texture under my teeth. The sun is warm, but waning, because it’s always Autumn. I can feel the smooth, knobbly cobbles under my feet. No time for shoe shopping. I’m looking for something, trying to get somewhere. Thank goodness I remembered my passport. There are statues everywhere, but not what I’m looking for. I freeze—I have forgotten my camera.