Studio Notes

Cold and dry at the end of December

2011-12-25T23:46:00.001-06:00

Cold and Dry

The weather forecast I just listened to

said the week would be comfortable,

with no snow expected.

It is the last week of the year,

the very end of December,

and this is still

the state of Wisconsin.

Although this year

almost everything else has been turned

upside down and inside out.

They haven't,

as yet,

legislated

against snow.

Take care,

Janis

Just before the frost...

2011-10-24T14:43:00.002-05:00

f
Market Sunflowers

The past few days have been a golden reprieve before the killing frost hits.

The sweet tangerine tomatoes on my one and only plant have hung on in the autumn winds and the blossoms are still reaching for the fading sun.

Going to the Monona Farmer's Market yesterday was a feast for the eyes and an anticipated delight for the appetite.

There was an abundant display of a beautiful and varied harvest, made available for those of us who could purchase.

By mid-week we've been advised the hard frost will arrive and the harvest will end.

As I enjoy this bounty of the earth,

I pledge to remember the many who did not

have the resources available

to share this delight.

Speaking out!

2011-10-16T00:05:00.000-05:00

October Afternoon

Today I spent the afternoon participating in democracy by being an active citizen. For four hours at a rally on the steps of the State Capitol I listened to speakers and spoke out about the dire needs of our state, our country and the world. We need work that pays a living wage and we need the politicians who proclaim that they represent us, actually listen to what we're saying.

Suddenly it's fall

2011-10-01T21:07:00.000-05:00

Summer's oppressive heat has suddenly been transformed into a brisk, wind filled autumn. The trees, that at first seemed reluctant to change their attire, have now rapidly clothed themselves in the brilliant hues of fall

and the garden enjoys the last golden days

before the frost.

Rose hips

Along with the seasons, I'm also in transition.

The classes that I've taken

over the past two plus years

will end at the close of this year

when I complete my Digital Storytelling course.

Then I'll be allowed to add a

Social Media Marketing Certificate

to my list of credentials.

I 'm seeking work

as a social media strategist

with nonprofit organizations.

Any assistance you might offer

would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Janis

Ah...cool breeze

2011-08-16T16:16:00.000-05:00


August Oriental Lily

This summer's scorching heat effectively put a damper on my visits to the garden. When I'm sweating so much that I can't see clearly, I don't do very well.
The few days that were comfortable became even more appreciated and I've tried spending as much time as I could capturing the many exquisite blossoms.
Lilies, of all kinds and varieties, are high on my list of favorite flowers. When the fragrance of oriental lilies fills the garden, I'm delighted .

Summer's sizzle

2011-07-02T00:42:00.000-05:00

Butterfly's Delight

July began with temperature's in the 90's.

Several days ago it was much more pleasant.

I was able to spend two enjoyable afternoons in the garden without melting.

Every time I visit I see something new and intriguing,

or I see something in a totally new way.

The explosions of color and varieties of texture

always bring such delight.

Summer's edge

2011-06-16T00:27:00.002-05:00

Columbine 2011

Within a week summer will be here. At least the calendar will state that fact, if not the actual weather. The past several months much of life has been so uncertain; the very cool, wet days that have alternated helter-skelter with scorching blasts of heat, during what was to have been spring, seemed to go with the rest of the skewed picture. For now, I find comfort in the garden and the evolving cycles of nature.

Spring sunshine 2011

2011-05-03T20:56:00.001-05:00

August Monarch

My images are defined by light; the light of the garden that transforms colors and textures into vibrant, translucent forms pulsating with life. My subjects live in the natural world; a world I take delight in observing and sharing with others.

The posted image and three others of mine are on view in:

Creative Expressions of Inner Vision

May 6 - July 1

Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired

754 Williamson St.

Madison, WI

Artist Interview: Adapting... life as a visually impaired artist

2011-03-18T00:31:00.003-05:00

Narrator: Natasha Kassulke

Audio Engineer: David Hunn

Announcing:

Creative Expressions from Inner Vision

May 6 thru July 1

Reception: May 6th 5 to 7:30 PM

a Gallery Night event

Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired

754 Williamson Street

Madison, Wisconsin

funded in part by a grant from the

Dane County Cultural Affairs Commission

Change is the only Certainty

2011-02-19T15:47:00.001-06:00

My classes are close to ending and my employment search is accelerating. Lives change along with the seasons

and the daily rise of the sun.

Although I don't anxiously embrace it,
change is the only certainty in our lives right now.
It's very unsettling to not know what direction
tomorrow brings.

Eventually spring will come and gardens will grow

with new life.
I intend to continue adding images to my gallery that I hope will bring you enjoyment.

Comments on the photos would be greatly appreciated.

Stay well,

Jan

Flowers of love... for special Valentines

2011-01-20T13:38:00.001-06:00

Valentine's Day?

After the bouquet has wilted

the chocolate shows up

on your scale...

Studio Notes flowers

continue

glow with love!

Place your order now,

custom printing takes time.

Order by clicking on comments

at the end of this post.

Stay warm,

Jan

A Friendly Tweet...connecting through social media

2011-01-19T15:57:00.000-06:00

How does a publicly funded, higher education institution reach out to a world of prospective students?

Can a large multinational corporation engage in personal dialog with clients and potential clients?

What communication platforms would allow a regional organization to share the stories of it's sixty-four member non-profit organizations, while adhering to tight financial restraints?

Working under the demands of a twenty-four hour news day, how does a national news organization provide an avenue for community dialog?

The effective use of social media provides an answer for all of these questions.

Northern Illinois University is the second-largest public university in Illinois, having a student enrollment of more than 24,000. The large College of Visual and Performing Arts attracts a global student body. NIU's primary website prominently displays links to a variety of social media platforms including a page devoted to connecting through social media.

Cisco Systems, Inc. is the worldwide leader in networking that transforms how people connect, communicate and collaborate. The immense size and product line of the company could very easily be intimidating and pose a barrier for personalized communication with prospective clients. Cisco's website opens with a four subject slide show above the fold. A link to Cisco's social media site in posted to the right of that panel. Social@Cisco is a dedicated web page that directs the viewer to interact with Cisco across the Social Web. Cisco Social Media Blog provides personal insight to connect with. The Cisco website displays prime examples of their communication skills.

Community Shares of Wisconsin is the umbrella organization for sixty-four member non-profits that address social, economic, and environmental problems through grassroots action, advocacy, research, and public education. Their website provides a stage for education and community outreach. The home page displays icon links for Facebook and Twitter and the viewer is asked to follow the organization on both social media sites. I think the use of YouTube videos to the Community Shares website would allow their member organizations to clearly identify themselves and possibly increase community dialog.

National Public Radio is a non-profit twenty-four hour news source. The home page of it's website asks that the viewer follow them on Facebook. A navigation tab provides access to the dedicated NPR Social Media page with excerpts of current community dialog on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Flickr. NPR is to be commended for keeping the means of community dialog open and vigorous.

I think these four diverse organizations have successfully integrated the use of social media in their websites.

Thanks for allowing me to hijack this space to post a class assignment. It will shortly return to the regular program.

Valentine's Day...my flowers don't wilt

2011-01-11T11:37:00.001-06:00

Valentine's Day

will be here soon.

Give a gift

that won't wilt two days later.

Bring light

to a dark winter.

Thanks to all who entered

the

Studio Notes gift certificate giveaway.

Winners will be contacted.

Stay warm,

Jan

Begin the year with light... gift certificate giveaway!

2010-12-29T12:24:00.003-06:00

Short days and darkness getting to you?

Begin the new year with light from the garden.

Win a $50 Studio Notes gift certificate.

Fan (Like) JNS Studio Notes Facebook page.

(click on Facebook Badge, R side of post)

all you last minute shoppers, e-gift certificates available

2010-12-18T00:01:00.001-06:00

Yes the weather outside is frightful, but your gift can still be delightful. A vision filled with light and color will brighten a dark winter day.

Purchase an e-gift certificate for a photo that will arrive to bring light to the new year.

Just a few days left to place your order.

Visit JNS Studio Notes on Facebook and leave a comment.

Happy Holidays!
Jan

first snow of the season, time to order a holiday gift

2010-12-04T18:14:00.000-06:00

The first snowfall of the season graced our neighborhood last night. In the glistening sunlight this afternoon it was all quite beautiful and serene. This sample of what's to come, was just enough to be enjoyable.

Selecting a special holiday gift can also be an enjoyable experience. My photographs make lovely and unique gifts.

Additional images may be viewed in the slideshow, to the right of this post. Click on the slideshow image to view a larger photo. Custom printing and shipping take time. Order now.

Like my new Facebook page and leave a comment.

Happy Holidays!

Jan

Gift giving time is here ... along with the gifts to give!

2010-11-20T01:28:00.004-06:00

Now is the time to purchase your holiday gifts.

In addition to the photos shown in this gallery

there are more images that may be viewed

in the slideshow, to the right of this post.
Just click on the slideshow image
to view a larger photo.

Currently available are many

gallery framed images

all ready for gift wrap and bows.

Just post a comment with your image choices

and contact information. Click on the word
comments, below this post.

Custom printing and shipping

requires additional time...

so order now.

Happy holidays!

Jan

wanting to play hookey...

2010-11-05T16:08:00.002-05:00

Ah yes...my last post spoke of waiting for my grades. The wait is over and I'm not too surprised. Although I'd like to receive an A in every class, one B doesn't break my heart. It certainly isn't because I blew anything off; I put my all into whatever I'm studying. I just need to keep at it.

Right now I'd love to just play hookey. I'm exhausted by weeks of being constantly assaulted by negative political ads and the anxiety of what ifs. I want to take off for a week of comfortable, sunny days with no commitments.

Of course, that's not reality. Maybe a short nap will help restore my determination to actually get busy with homework.
Take care,
Jan

sinking or maybe dog paddling..the second half of the semester

2010-10-19T11:03:00.003-05:00

Waiting for my grades from the first 8 weeks of the Fall semester. Trying to get all assignments completed on time meant that I had to organize all the scattered bits and pieces of files from two portable drives, my desktop and written notes in several locations. I organize in piles, much the same way as my thought patterns.
Everything was finished and placed in the correct drop boxes on time ...
but not without a tremendous amount of effort and lack of sleep.

Yesterday my new class started: Social Media Campaigns. It's in a unique (to me) teleconference room that's semi-circular with a large screen showing another facing classroom on the west side of Madison. Each seat at the two long tables has an attached laptop. The instructor is at Truax on the east side. Our class sits facing the other half of the class and the instructor is able to address all of us as if we were all in the same room. This is the first time the class has been taught. It's all completely new, and exciting to me.
Gotta go to my tutoring session. I still have a great deal to learn about Dreamweaver and Flash and am fortunate to have the help of someone who enjoys teaching and knows her subjects well.
Take care,
Jan.

The first week of a new semester

2010-08-29T21:40:00.004-05:00

The first week has already left me breathless and buried under a significant mountain of work. There are several images posted that have been quietly added to the other new ones. More will follow, but at a slower pace because most of my time will be need to be spent inside with my nose plastered to my monitor. There's so very much to learn, in an extremely compressed half semester of time. The next seven weeks will be a tremendous challenge.

Wish me well, or at least that I survive to continue on to the next half semester.
Take care,
Jan

new images

2010-08-02T22:43:00.005-05:00

It's been quite some time since I last posted. Classwork hasn't totally consumed me; close but not completely. Time to explore with my camera has either been postponed by lots of rain or interrupted by tasks that could not be put aside.

This evening I've posted twelve new images. Before classes begin again at the end of this month I promise to spend more time outside with my camera, instead of limiting my activity to the confines of my digital world.

Your comments would be warmly welcomed (no pun intended, although it's still very hot outside). I'd really love to know what you think of my work, especially the new images.
Take care,
Jan

Season's end and fresh beginnings

2009-11-17T22:59:00.003-06:00

from August to November

the flowers stopped blooming

the leaves played their glorious final notes

days filled with sunshine and heat

have quietly changed their clothes

to more muted hues

as much as I had wished,

I couldn't stop Summer from leaving

or Fall from arriving

now Winter sits on the doorstep

and another year closes and begins

In August I returned to the life of a student, after a recess of almost thirty years. I've started on a two year journey with the intention of earning a certificate in Web Page Design. I certainly will continue with floral photography, but for the immediate future being a student will occupy the majority of my time.

Yesterday my show at Pinney library came down after a very extended run from March to the middle of November. I hope those of you who were able to stop by enjoyed the work.

Please continue to visit. I'll post images and maybe a few thoughts now and then. It would be wonderful to hear from you. Please leave a comment.

Be well.

Jan

Summer flying by

2009-08-04T20:09:00.004-05:00

The days and months are flying so fast. Although at times my thoughts are repeating those of the white rabbit, "I'm late, I'm late ..." visually I'm thoroughly immersed in the colors, textures, fragrances and sounds of summer. My camera has captured many moments in gardens exploding with glorious flowers. Each day brings a new cycle of buds opening into full bloom.
Now the Monarch butterflies have returned to entrance me with their elegant dance.

I've posted images fresh from my camera in the area below these words. I'd love to learn what you think of them. Please send a comment.

Before I forget, Spring Delight is still on view at Pinney Library in their Meeting Room. If you have a chance, stop by the library at: 204 Cottage Grove Rd., Madison.

Spring Delight

2009-03-06T11:24:00.009-06:00

Announcing a new show:

Spring Delight

altered photography

Still UP for viewing

(held over by popular demand)

Pinney Branch Library

204 Cottage Grove Rd
Madison, WI

please stop by the library and view my work in the meeting room

then leave a comment here

Thanks!

A new year of opportunity and hope

2009-01-01T11:17:00.008-06:00

Today begins another new year. Although the year just passed has been difficult, I greet 2009 with an open heart and hope for positive opportunities. It's time to be thankful, to celebrate life and to look to the future.

*** Garden of Light ***

altered photography

January 5 - March 15, 2009

Office of Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton

19 East, Wisconsin State Capitol

Madison, WI

608-266-3516

Buy local, Buy Now!

2008-12-13T12:15:00.011-06:00

"It was the best of times and the worst of times" very apply describes what I'm up to my neck in right now. My work is currently on view in the office of the Lt. Governor, an honor that I was thrilled to accept. At the very same time I'm struggling from day to day to be able to pay rent and buy groceries. Please consider purchasing from a local artist. Artwork can bring light and warmth to a room during the darkness of winter.

************Show/Reception invitation****************

Garden of Light

altered photography

available for viewing now

through March 5, 2009

Office of Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton

19 East, Wisconsin State Capitol

Madison, Wisconsin

608-266-3516

Opening Reception

Monday, January 5

4:30-6pm

public invited

*******

It snowed a little today

2008-11-08T20:50:00.000-06:00

This afternoon as I was looking out from my studio window I noticed snow flakes mixing with the rain. After last year's 100+ inches my enthusiasm is greatly diminished. Perhaps it's a combination of the abrupt shift of seasons along with the shorter daylight that triggers my downward mood. The elation that I felt on Tuesday evening as the election results were made available is now tempered by the financial reality that faces us all. An email arrived today alerting me to the fact that a proposal to eliminate funding for all public art projects and maintance for existing public art in the city will be voted on next week at the Madison Common Council meeting.
Art is necessary for a civilized society and a livable city. The artists who dedicate their lives to producing their artwork should be considered valued members who make lasting contributions that enrich the lives of all citizens. Unfortunately, that's not what is happening here when funding is allocated to support a building for the arts, but support for the artists is cut. It's very short sighted thinking that I hope will not prevail.

To lift my spirits I'll wrap up in a down comforter and imagine that I'm back in that very sunny day when I photographed the meadow garden.

22nd Artful Women Show/Sale

2008-11-01T15:32:00.000-05:00

This morning I dropped off my entry in the twenty-second Artful Women's show that is sponsored by the Wisconsin's Women's Network. This multi-media exhibit/sale is shown in the Skylight Lounge Gallery at University Hospital, 600 Highland Avenue in Madison. The show runs from November 2nd through December 5th and is available for viewing from 7 AM to 9 PM every day. The Artist's Reception in on Sunday, November 16 from 3 to 5 in the Skylight Lounge.
I've been in all but the first of these yearly shows that promote the work of women in the Dane County area and also benefits the Wisconsin Women's Network through sales. The Network is a nonprofit coalition of organizations and individuals that works to improve the status of women in Wisconsin. It's a good show to exhibit in and I'm pleased to support the sponsoring organization.

First Thoughts ...

2008-10-28T16:45:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my virtual studio. I hope that you'll enjoy viewing my most recent work along with some earlier pieces that have become favorites. All of the work is available for purchase. Please indicate your interest with a comment and I will contact you.This blog represents my first attempt in establishing a web presence for my artwork. Be patient with me as I explore this new gallery, it will constantly be a work in progress.

Your questions and comments are always welcome. Thanks for your interest in my work.

all images copyright 2006-2008 Janis Nussbaum Senungetuk