August 2024

WiVLA August 2024 Newsletter
Inspire. Promote. Collaborate.                                   August (dog days) 2024                                      
Article header: (text on image) President's Message
The President's Message:
What Are You Learning?

When I sat down to write this month’s President’s Message, I realized how much I enjoy starting conversations. Having a monthly theme makes writing these feel more connecting. I decided on “back to school,” for August’s theme.

As creatives, we may have a closer connection to our inner child than others. This means, we can be intentional about being lifelong learners. Meaning, we can stay curious, lean into the awe that comes with beginner’s mind, and enjoy the thrill of exploring and expanding our creativity and our craft(s). 

Speaking of exploring and expanding, I am really enjoying being in a leadership role with WIVLA. I am as much a community builder as I am a project manager and a creative. It has been 7 years since I had a leadership role that allowed me to engage this fun mix of interests with a group this size. Reflecting on this fueled an idea that I am turning into a challenge. Let’s do something new as a community. What if the President’s Message could be a conversation starter? What if members responded to a theme-based question or prompt? You up for it?

I am challenging us to have at least 15 of us post an answer to the question below and use the hashtag #WIVLA_Aug24. This way we can do a quick search with the hashtag to see all the responses together. 

 

#WIVLA_Aug24 question:

What are you currently learning? 

Some ideas for expanding your answer:

How? For instance, are you taking a class? Experimenting on your own? Are you being challenged? Or are you surprised by how quickly you are getting it? How are you responding to the challenge or the surprising ease? 

May we all meet the challenges of learning as humans and as creatives with self-compassion and abundant curiosity and patience.

 ~ Brooke Summers-Perry ~
WiVLA is Turning 30!
Be a Part of Something Special

Répondez s'il vous plaît
 
We will be celebrating WiVLA’s 30th Anniversary together on Thursday, October 24 from 6:30-8:30 PM at the Cloister Gallery at Christ Church Cathedral (1117 Texas Ave., Houston, TX) and would love to see you there!!

This is a free member event, and sponsors will be invited to join us. Because we'll be providing light refreshments, we encourage you to RSVP so that we can estimate our headcount. The earlier you can RSVP, the better, but it is not required to attend.
RSVP for Event Here
If you like the idea of arriving early, there will be a tour beginning at 6 p.m. of the Christ Church Cathedral Sanctuary and you are welcome to join us for this. Click here for a history of the church.
https://www.christchurchcathedral.org/tours-and-history/ 

Get ready to celebrate!
 
Our 30th celebration deserves the best. Please consider donating $50 and becoming an Oyster level sponsor. 
 
Your generous donation will help fund the delicious menu we have planned for the evening. It’s easy to donate, simply Zelle to treasurer@wivla.org; PayPal to info@wivla.org; or send a check. Need additional sponsorship info, see the link below or contact Kathi Crawford or Melissa Chambers.  Thanks for your support!
Sponsorship Info

And for added fun...
 
Volunteer to assist with the celebration. We have the following opportunities:
  • Assisting with group art projects tied to the event. 
  • Assisting the "day of event" with set-up and clean-up of the venue.
Click on the button(s) below that tickle(s) your fancy:
Volunteer - Group Art Project
Volunteer - Day of Event

Entangled
Our Biennial Collaboration
Entangled will open on Thursday, September 12, at Sabine Street Studios, 1824 Spring Street, located at the North Yard at Sawyer Yards. We'll celebrate our work during the reception on Friday, September 20. 
Click here for updates
Houston Local Artists'
Facebook page - From: Denise Bossarte
The Houston Local Artists' Facebook page is another way to share WIVLA events/workshops/classes. This facebook site has a newsletter that is published weekly on the FB site. They have 40.5K members!

​Please send the events, information, and any digital images to confident_realm@yahoo.com. They only publish what is sent to this email.
HLA Facebook page
Send news info here
~ WiVLA Calendar ~
Remember to check the WiVLA Calendar for exciting events, such as field trips, studio visits, workshops, and other fun activities.
 
Save the Date(s)
 
  • Entangled exhibition and public reading, September 20
  • AuthorPalooza Extravaganza Conference , October 4  Conference Info
  • WiVLA 30th Anniversary Party, October 24
  • Haunted Holidays Readings: Brazos Bookstore, November 9, 2024 @ 6:00
  • Literary Readings during the Member Meeting: ZOOM, November 19, 2024 @ 6:00 - Theme: Pearl
Section Header: Member Meeting
 
August Member/Guest Meeting

with Ann Leis

Books, Dewees Cochran, and Her Dolls
Tuesday, August 20
6:00-8:00
ZOOM (The link will be sent out the week of the meeting)

Ann Leis was born in Fulton, New York, in 1959, the third of four daughters. Her parents, Bart and Vita Chalone, recognized her early love of dolls and often gifted them for special occasions. Ann recalls one memorable Christmas when she and her sister Trish received the new Barbie Dreamhouse accompanied by two Franci dolls and a large wardrobe, won in a raffle from the city’s Cracker Barrel Fair in 1969.

After publishing an article for Doll News magazine, Ann went on to write a number more and eventually served as associate editor of the journal. As her interest in writing developed, she co-authored the children’s book Music of the Butterfly: A Story of Hope, a gentle introduction to the Holocaust for young children, based on a true story.

Ann became captivated by Dewees Cochran’s work from the moment she first laid eyes on the artist’s beautiful dolls. Over time, her quest to learn more about Dewees and her dolls developed into an extended, in-depth research project that has led to this most comprehensive book yet on the doll maker’s professional and private life. 

Currently a member of the United Federation of Doll Clubs, First Houston Doll Club, and Doll Collectors of America, Ann, recognized as an expert on all things Dewees, has actively participated in numerous seminars, talks, and a symposium on the artist’s work.

Ann currently lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband. She is a registered nurse, volunteers for children’s charities, and enjoys tennis, pickleball, crafts, quilting, cooking, gardening, and traveling. She has three married children and one glorious granddaughter, who at the tender age of four is already enchanted by her grandmother’s burgeoning collection of treasured dolls.
Section Header: Meeting Highlight


July Member/Visitor Meeting
Brooke
 Summers-Perry

 
Blackout Poetry and Art, Oh My!
 

Our scheduled speaker needed to reschedule because of power and internet outages after Hurricane Beryl. Brooke graciously filled the void with a wonderful presentation about blackout poetry--with examples and inspiration. Now, we're inspired to learn more! Stay tuned for information about upcoming workshops by Brooke.
 
July Member/Guest Meeting
Ruby R Scott

Ruby R Scott is a visual artist located in Houston, Texas. She specializes in brightly colored compositions that intentionally connect viewers with her eclectic nature. She creates a vast array of imagery that includes abstract, figurative-abstract fusion, contemporary, realism, recycled mixed media abstract, and floral, appealing to a broad audience.

Her works have been exhibited at The Atrium Center, Art on the Avenue, Spring Street Studios, Sabine Street Studios, Silos Studios, Archway Gallery, Sean Anthony’s, Sugar Creek Country Club, The Houston Club, and The Sawyer House.

"My enthusiasm for art revolves around my desire to spread joy through painting, seeing collectors make a solid connection to them, and passing on that same satisfaction I received while creating them. As an artist-owner of Arts a Daisy Gallery LLC in Houston, Texas, I specialize in large acrylic paintings and paintings incorporating recycled materials. My eclectic taste in art is displayed in a wide range of artistic styles while remaining a nonconformist artist.

 Futuristically speaking, I will continue strengthening my creativity, passing joy through my paintings on to others, and creating until I am no longer able."

Ruby's Website
Ruby's e-mail address

Who will WiVLA highlight next?
Each month, a WiVLA member is highlighted in the Newsletter. This is a fun way for us to get to know each other. Contact Margo, if you would like your time in the spotlight.
Click for your spotlight
The 30th Anniversary is symbolized by the pearl. As part of our celebration this year, let's share thoughts about our creative journey with WiVLA. In 150 words or less tell us about how membership in WiVLA has enhanced your creative and/or personal life. You can use some of these questions to help you get started. Or you can create a poem or short prose to express your feelings about WiVLA. Send your Pearls of WiVLA and a photo of you in your pearls (if you have them) to Margo (Please put "WiVLA" in the subject line). Or you can fill out some of the questions on line

Possible questions
* How long have you been a member of WiVLA? 
* What inspired you to become a member of WiVLA?
* In what ways has being a member of WiVLA impacted your life?
* What is your favorite memory or experience as a WiVLA member?
* How has WiVLA supported your creative journey?
* What do you think sets WiVLA apart from other arts or literary organizations?
* Which WiVLA events were the most meaningful to you, and why?
* How has being a member of WiVLA connected you with other creatives?
* Have you attended any WiVLA workshops? If so, which ones were especially beneficial to you, and how?
WiVLA Pearl for August: Melody Locke

In November 2016, a friend introduced me to one of her friends who belonged to an artist group. When I expressed an interest in joining that group, I was summarily rejected without even seeing my work. She rattled off the names of other groups I could try. The only name that I could remember was wivla. I googled the organization and learned they would meet again later in the month. When I attended that meeting, I tentatively asked Jane Mulholland if a photographer like me could join WiVLA. I was hooked by her warm response and the quality of the presentation. By the time I retired from BMC Software in 2018, I was ending my first year as treasurer. 

I can name certain times in my life when people and events have changed the trajectory of my life. Joining WiVLA introduced me to the Houston art scene, some very talented artists and writers, and speakers who inspired me and gave me the confidence to open my studio in 2019. 

Who knew a closed door could open a treasure trove of life experiences and friendships.  
Send or request a short testimonial video(s) here
Hotpoet Anthology Readings at the Friendswood Public Library

Come on down to Friendswood on Saturday, August 3rd to hear a couple of WiVLA literary artists ~ Sandi Stromberg and Margo Stutts Toombs read their work. These are always fun!
 
Artist Reception for Liz Plaster
Contact Liz for more information and to get on the Evite List.
Click here to contact Liz
The Paradox Exhibit
at Silver Street Studios

The artists of Silver Street are proud to announce the opening of Paradoxthe first juried exhibition at Silver Street Studios that draws work from all of the studio buildings on the Sawyer Yards campus. The exhibition was juried by Alton Dulaney, an artist, personality, and Director of the Houston Airports Public Art Program.

Many artists express their personal worldview through their creative work, blending subjective perspectives with symbolism. Paradox delves into the exploration of what exists between these realms, celebrating the harmonization of opposing forces. The exhibit will be up until Sat, Sep 14, 2024 at 2000 Edwards Street
 

Several WiVLA visual artists are in the show: 
Melody Locke, 
Marie E. Casamayor-Harvey
Brooke Summers-Perry

Brooke Summers-Perry
Melody Locke
Marie Casamayor-Harvey
Donna E Perkins has a print in ThinkINK

Donna E Perkins has a print in ThinkINK, PrintHouston’s Member’s Exhibition at the Silos at Swayer Yards, 1502 Sawyer St. Houston, TX 77007. The exhibition runs from July 5 – August12.


The print is titled Wings of Change, 2024,
Monoprint, acrylic on Yupo, 14 x 22.


Carol L. Watson has a show at Treebeard's
~ The Cloister ~

 

The Women/s Caucus for Art-Texas would like to invite WiVLA members to enter our exhibition, Arborea, which will be held from Sept. 18, the opening reception, to Oct. 25, 2024, at the Cloister Gallery at Christ Church Cathedral in Houston. The exhibit is open to WCA-Texas members ($5 for 3 entries) and non-members ($30 for 3 entries). The deadline for submissions is Aug. 5, 2024. 

Entitled Arborea, this exhibition is an invitation to reflect on our relationship with trees and how it shapes our journey through life. Arborea loosely translates into the Latin word for female tree. Trees nourish and protect, embody the cycle of life and the power of metamorphosis. Not merely providing oxygen, food, and shelter, but also acting as silent witness to our shared history, a reflection of humanity's own varied tapestry. Trees have long served as beacons, guiding travelers and offering refuge to those in need. Symbolizing life, growth, and spiritual connection, trees are emblems of resilience. But human nature has always impacted our dear trees. In their demise, trees give rise to the very structures of our bustling homes. And trees bear testimony to humanity’s darkest hours, unwilling hosts to acts of injustice. Yet, they also stood as beacons of liberty along the Underground Railroad, guiding the footsteps of those seeking a new dawn. We invite you to express your thoughts about trees in your artwork and submit your work to the show.

WCA-Texas is a new chapter of the fifty-three-year-old national organization, Women’s Caucus for Art. The mission of the Women’s Caucus for Art is to create community through art, education, and social activism. WCA-Texas is fully volunteer, and open to all who love art, create art, teach art, and/or promote art. WCA-Texas is a 501c3 non-profit. 

Click here for more info
Equinox is accepting literary and visual art.
Hotpoet's Equinox ~ "Gaze into Space!"  submissions of prose, poetry and visual art until August 12  outer space, inner space, personal space, free space, safe space, breathing space, take up space, pressed for space, living space, free up space, save a space, waste of space, lost in space, need my space, space cadet, space cowboy, space out…
Click here for more info
Yellow Arrow Publishing is looking for
female writers and teachers.
Click here for more info
A different kind of workshop coming up at The Ekphrastic Review. Visual art inspires writers, and it also inspires Madonna. She has been collecting and promoting art and artists for her entire career, and much of her work is influenced by her favourite artists. Join us for a fun and fascinating discussion on art and Madonna!
Click here to register

Grackle and Grackle hosts creative writing classes taught by talented writers who love to teach. They also consult with organizations and businesses seeking a literary touch on big projects, or who want them to create workshops for team retreats or other events. They work with all ages of writers. 

Founded by writers Miah Arnold and Raj Mankad in 2014, their goal is to bolster the power of storytelling in Houston and abroad to connect writers to each other. By offering graduated discounts on classes, they ensure that anybody who wants to take a class at Grackle and Grackle can do so.

They host weekend workshops for retreats geared toward specific kinds of writing, therapy, or outcomes; and weekly workshops in institutional or hospital settings. As consultants, they deliver strategic plans, texts, publications, illustrations, and videos. They collaborate with graphic design, landscape, urban planning, and architecture firms.

Click here for more info or to register for classes & workshops
WiVLA Needs Your Expertise
Do you have special skills, talents or knowledge to share with other WiVLA members? Now is a good time to volunteer ~
  • Serve on a committee
  • Speak at a monthly meeting
  • Lead a workshop.
  • Be creative
Don't be shy. We have a lot to learn from each other.
Click here for more info
We'd love to celebrate your good news. If you are interested in sharing, please send your items to newsletter@wivla.org. The deadline for inclusion in the next month's newsletter is the 20th. Thank you.
Or send your news items here
Thank you to our Sponsor Members ~
 

Ruby R Scott
Arts a Daisy Gallery

https://artsadaisygallery.com/
rubyrscott@artsadaisygallery.com

 

Rosario Solis
https://www.artsolis.com/


Grackle & Grackle
https://grackleandgrackle.com





 
Click here for more info on our sponsor members
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