I’m deep in Research and Development for Playastan Crossroads, my Burning Man project. I’ve been having meetings, looking at imagery, making sketches, working on schedules, and doing a lot of thinking. It’s  productive, but not in the way I’m used to. As a maker of objects, it’s disconcerting not have something concrete to look at at the end of the day, especially with such a large project looming ahead.

looking at Silk Road textile imagery

Progress is being made, however. I finalized the banner sizes and I’m very close to final design decisions on the imagery for the banners. Still to come are color tests, designs for the edges, ordering of materials, color mockups, and then the hands-on work will begin. First will come full-size cartoons, then waxing the imagery, and the painting on the dyes. I’m hoping to be sewing the sleeves onto the banners by the end of June.

I’m so excited about this project that I want to work on it full-time. But I still need to finish up some new work for a show in Michigan this Summer. I also need to pay some attention to other upcoming shows and write at least one more proposal before the end of April. Then, there is my garden, which is bursting out with Spring newness. There’s a lot to manage in this business of being an artist.

new work in process

But don’t think I’m complaining. I totally appreciate the fact that I get to spend my days creating and being with my kids (when they can fit me into their busy, teenage lives). I am just anxious to get making, to work with materials and color instead of paper and pencil, computer and keyboard.