Monday, July 30, 2007

Joan makes a splash

I'm panicking! I'm heading off to NY in a couple days and I don't have a thing to wear! I seriously need a fashion guru.

I didn't feel very compelled to draw in my harried state so instead, I found myself sifting through my old sketchbooks and found a drawing that brought back fond memories. Many moons ago, I lived along a beach on Oahu, in a small apartment off the main house; it was a great little place. When I moved in, I painted over the dingy white walls with a brighter, but still boring white (so much for creating a splash). But one evening, after being there only a week, I just couldn't stand looking at the perfect white walls any longer so unbeknownst to my landlord, I drew, in pencil, a lifesized image of Melissa Etheridge (similar to the one here) on the inside of my back door. When my landlord came over (which was thankfully rarely), I left the door open and she never noticed it. Of course, when I moved out a year later, I had to admit I defaced the door but fortunately, it wasn't a big deal ... an artist later moved in after me and decided to keep it. So I guess technically, that was my first gallery exhibit. LOL.

11 comments:

a r n e l said...

Joan,

I love your line drawings and your subtle use of colours. That was the reason why I added you to my blogroll...

What about a link swap?

https://www.everypicture.blogspot.com

Tracy said...

great story and cool drawing. that landlord knew a good thing - got an original JY outta the deal huh? and i wouldn't worry about the wardrobe this time of year in NYC LOL. its hot. be comfortable :-)

Joan Y said...

Thanks Arnel ... added! I'm looking forward to visiting your site regularly. Beautiful drawings!

Hey Tracy ... I noticed you're not on my blogroll? How can that not be? May I?

Tracy said...

silly - sure :-)
and you know i came back here looking for a new drawing (i have some nerve since i haven't posted any new ones myself!) and i'd forgotten if i left you a note about this one and saw your note back!

juj said...

GREAT story Joan - thanks for sharing. Love the drawing. Have you ever thought about what you would draw today were you to do it again?

Joan Y said...

Thanks Tracy!
Hey Juj - I realize I have a propensity for drawing on walls. I recall drawing on my dorm room walls as well. As for now? I think I'd draw a detailed landscape.

Kathleen Rietz said...

Hi Joan! Love the drawing....when I bought my house full of white walls, I was just SO tempted to paint things everywhere! I still get the "bug", but then I do a new portfolio piece. : )

In NY, anything goes. I know Hawaii is pretty casual, but honestly I think comfort is more important than fashion. It's great if you can accomplish both, but usually NY gets the same weather we get in Chicago, and it is HOT here. Comfy walking shoes, capris and shorts, a few different tops and a jacket (for chilly restaurants)...and a skirt or simple dress if you have to dress up for anything.

I wish you were coming to Chicago...I would love to meet you!!!!!!

-kate : )

Joan Y said...

Hi Kathleen! Thanks for the info. I didn't plan on it being so hot there so thanks for the heads up. You should plan to come out to Hawaii some time!

suzanne cabrera said...

Oh yea!!!! Another Melissa Etheridge fan! Love both the drawing and the story!

Joan Y said...

Hi Suzanne, thanks for visiting! Is there anyone greater than Ms. E!?! :)

mrana said...

heh, what a great story. I have to admit that I paint all my walls brilliant (not boring, no no) white ... my excuse is that it's the best background for the splashes of colourful artwork that will hang on it. Perhaps I should think of investing in some soon before the white bookshelves (full!) take over ...