trails
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1620
posted
Me! I am an artist and was an art teacher too. Now I rarely do either. Pretty much the same as you.
Was a clay artist/ceramicist..then did lots of mixed media, then fabrics/fibers. Was in a few galleries in New Mexico.
I just couldnt produce with the fatigue and pain. But I have to add that the brain fog is also very disabling as an artist. I get SOME ideas, sometimes, but I dont have the follow through I used to. My brain does NOT have the creative spark it used to.
I took a woodworking class (once a week thru the adult school) and make a beautful rustic cabinet this past fall, but that is about it. (I antiqued my own copper--it was FUN!)
It is very hard on my emotionally. It is more than my career and my identity---it is my soul. It is missing.
I try to write every day now....I use my emails as my writing. I try to be okay with that for now. I try to stay in the moment and not think about the past or future--it is just too sad either way.
I am going to take a clay class which is pretty silly since that is how I made a LIVING once--but I had to move, no studio here--so I am trying to be okay with just going and being centered on the wheel--clay is VERY healing, but it can be hard on your body too. It is very heavy.
Thanks for posting this--good idea!
Are there others here?
Posts: 1950 | From New Mexico | Registered: Sep 2001
| IP: Logged |
5dana8
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7935
posted
Hey azure wish & trail
Former classical oil portrait painter. BFA and 25 years at it. In Love with faces.
3 years ago I was getting ready for a one person museum show. The paint was flying. I was stressing because I didn't know if I had enough paintings to fill up the walls.
I crumbled and my lyme came back worse than ever. Now I can't remember a single thing about painting. Can't concentrate,focus,ect..
I used to get real depressed about not painting. I also felt a piece of my soul missing.
But last year I just ordered some clay. And when I have a little energy I just have at it. Never did have a class. I just let the clay do what it wants to do. Only need a few tools and my hands.
And when I don't like it I smash it and wait for another day. Thats the fun part.
Haven't felt well enough lately and wish I could get back too it. It was a good outlet for my emotions.
Maybe someday I will.
-------------------- 5dana8 Posts: 4432 | From some where over the rainbow | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
Linda LD
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 6663
posted
I'll apologize up front--I'm just a graphic artist--but use to love to paint with oils and watercolors.
I am just sooo tired--I can't seem to start or finish anything...
Linda
Posts: 1171 | From Knoxville, TN US | Registered: Dec 2004
| IP: Logged |
posted
What a relief to find this link! I am a writer, artist, and singer. I used to sing and write professionally, and create visual/wearable art on the side.
I was just starting to sell my wearable art (working in polymer clay as my main medium) when I first got sick twelve years ago. Have slowly abandoned everything as I got sicker and sicker.
I have reclaimed a room in my house as a sort of "studio", but I just can't get it together to paint or draw. I don't even write much, and writing is my main gig.
I'm working with a writing coach who is also my spiritual director, but I have trouble focusing on anything.
I agree that I feel like I've lost my identity. And I don't have enough money to take classes right now (spending everything on flying to LLMD appointments!).
I am able to do some fiber art, spinning, knitting, dying silks and wools from time to time. It all depends on whether or not my hands are working. I'm trying to feel okay about writing when my hands and brain work, then spinning and knitting when only my hands work.
When nothing works I feel terrible, like I have lost something very precious.
Trails: I think it's a great idea to take a class! In art, as in Zen, and dance, it's a practice. And a class will give you a place to show up and practice your art. Good for you!
The rest of you have great ideas and insights. I'll come back and re-read this when my brain and eyes work better. I feel inspired, and not so alone.
hopeful123
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 3244
posted
hey all,
i think the death of the creative spark which used to make me, me, is the worst of all of the symptoms.
not only don't i have ideas flowing, i forget how to work the various mediums i used to know so well.
since taking the flagyl for several months now, i can quilt some because it is not a blank canvas or page. either the fabric or a pattern is a perfectly legitimate jumping off point.
the sewing is tough sometimes because, although i've sewn for years and years, i am still pretty new to quilting and there is a steep learning curve to mastering the technical side of the craft.
can't afford classes or even too many books on learning how. make lots of mistakes which sometimes can be corrected, and other times, not.
silly things like not checking the colors out with outdoor lighting. not choosing projects which are commensurate with my skill level - advanced beginner - and so failing miserably to achieve certain details.
ex art teacher and art therapist
oil painter water color and gouache wood block prints (long ago) a little sculpture here and there
AND ALWAYS MORE IDEAS THAN I HAD TIME TO EXECUTE
in semi-recent lyme days, i also did some collage with paper and paint.
fatigue enters into the equation more than physical pain.
can't imagine teaching an art class, doing art therapy or painting a large oil.
i am reallllllllllllly grateful that the quilting is there. love the colors and textures and patterns.
i think clay is a great way to go, but as stated, it is very physical.
can't remember perspective AT ALL. borrowed a simple book on it and couldn't understand that.
other cognitive defecits continue to plague me, as well. have difficulty reading. can't write the way i used to.
the only thing that really defines my sense of self is making things creatively.
thanks for the thread and hope you guys get some juice back..
really know where you're at..
-------------------- some days you're the bug, some days you're the windshield Posts: 1160 | From NY | Registered: Oct 2002
| IP: Logged |
Andie333
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7370
posted
I agree with HOpeful, that the loss of my creative spark is one of the most heartbreaking things that has happened.
I'm a writer. I also used to sing, write music and play both the guitar and the piano.
I do write a journal now, a,d while that's something. It's nothing creative.
Just before my health took a nosedive, I had started a book -- managed to write about 50 pages -- but for the past year, there's been absolutely nothing.
I work as a writing coach, and it's great to be instilling passion, even if I can't find it in myself.
I just hope that one day, this all starts to turn around and I can reclaim that very very vital part of myself.
Andie
Posts: 2549 | From never never land | Registered: May 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
Wood sculptor-carver(chainsaw joseph).My art keeps me going and is my passion.Fustrating when I dont have the energy to create.Dabble in other mediums.I would like to see your work azure,send a pic if you want privately.
Posts: 308 | From new bedford,Ma. | Registered: Dec 2004
| IP: Logged |
5dana8
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7935
posted
hey fellow artist I do hear your frustration in missing being creative
I posted up top a few days ago.
I just wanted to share something that helps me. This sounds like a stupid idea but really works.
I bought some playdoo at walmart-dirt cheap. It comes in colors. It is non toxic and I bought some.
I made animal figures out of them and had a blast.
You can do it anywhere really and doesn't take up much energy.
You can even spread newspapers around your lap & play with it in bed. It does help and drys to a hard finish. Haven't been able to get alot of detail out of it because itsshape tends to spring back.
It is alot of fun. I don't think I would tell my fellow artists friends I am playing with playdo because I may get a few razzed's over it.
Just a thought. Mum's the word take care dana
-------------------- 5dana8 Posts: 4432 | From some where over the rainbow | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
I'm not really what you would call an "artist". Comercial artist maybe. I got my degree in Industrial Design (product design), and live and "work" in the silicon valley area. I say "work" because as you know it is very hard to do with this disease. My main problem is severe arthritist in my right hand. It makes it very hard to sketch and build models, or use a computer for long periods of time. I also build models for fun (mostly jets and stuff) but I have found it hard to concentrate on the lately. I can agree with everyone here about the loss of creative energy. It sucks. Oh well, hope everyone fells better soon. - J
Posts: 1 | From Northern California | Registered: Mar 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
Dana- Play-Doh: Too funny! I have a big pack of it that I keep on my bedside table to play with!
I LOVE the stuff and it's not messy. I have it in little containers in all different colors. I always had real artists clay as a kid and not Play-Doh, so it's kinda funny that now as an adult I play with the kids stuff!
Neat that somebody other than me is playing with that stuff in bed to keep busy!
Posts: 114 | From USA | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
Hey, count me in!! I'm a working artist half time, (a psychotherapist the other half...) I paint... mostly abstracts, in acrylic/mixed media and also oils. I use the water-soluble oils now because of the toxicity of solvents.
I'm so heartbroken for those of you who have either lost your creative spark, or who are too disabled to work... that is just terrible!! I used to play the fiddle ( I loved that so much...) but had to give that up due to the muscle spasms and nerve pain in my hands, shoulders, everywhere else....
I was just diagnosed definitively this week, but have been sick for a long time. I know for sure I've had Lyme since *at least* 1988 -- I actually suspect I was born with it, since my mother has it and was symptomatic before my birth... I got really, really sick after a tick bite (and rash) in '88, but had some symptoms even before that...
I mention this because my whole life -- including all my art training and creative development -- have happened while having this disease. I don't know what it feels like to be well...I don't think I've ever been truly well.
I have days when it really tires me out physically to paint (I paint big, and move all over the place doing it!) but I can really override the pain when I am deep into painting. I just have to realize that I may be in worse pain for a day or two afterwards.
I actually have a show opening this coming Thursday -- since last month I've quit smoking, and cut out all alcohol too -- so I am going to have to deal with the opening-nervousness stone cold sober (no wine... sigh...)and smoke free... wish me luck!
-------------------- "Looks like freedom but it feels like death.. It's something in between, I guess"
Leonard Cohen, from the song "Closing Time" Posts: 822 | From California | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
AZURE WISH
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 804
posted
Wow! i'm really surprised there are so many artists **** chainsaw joesph .... my moms digital camera is broke right now
maybe I can take some pics of something when its fixed.
I always found it amazing that people could carve with chainsaws...
I used to use other saws but it just always seemed like it would be to hard to control a chainsaw.
****
minimonkey .... like you my symptoms started in 1987 when I was 10 ...
and I have had some sort of symptoms every day since then
I was always a creative individual but I think I really got addicted to art after I got sick....
Art has always been a kind of coping mechanism for me....
Actually in art school they would always ask who my audience was.... who was the work made for...
I would tell them I didnt have an audience... Dont really care if anyone ever sees it... I just NEED to make my art works.
Sometimes I wonder if I had not gotten sick with lyme disease who I would be... Its kinda crazy to think that one little tick bite has created the majority of who I am.
I also use the water soluble oils... I think they are very simular to the other ones.
*****
5dana8.... play doh is a good Idea ... it might be easier to manipulate then the clay I have...
I have sculpey which is a material i like because you fire it in the oven ....
doesnt dry to you bake it.....
and after it is fired you can sand, carve, paint or whatever it. ...
but my fingers/hands cant quite work with it yet.
****
I also write poems sometimes... usually in spurts...
posted
This is an awesome thread. I also do mixed media/ acrylics. I use to carve walking sticks and do inlay.
I've dabbled in jewelery making. Both silver and bead work. Their have been diffrent crafts I've found joy in.
I write Poetry at times & I love to sing { when my voice actually works } if only for my children.
I don't have much stamina for it lately & my creativity is at a loss. My arms and hands hurt so it makes it difficult to use them the way I used to. Not to mention my focus.
I like the play do idea. I'll try it. The kids will get a kick. We do crafts together sometimes.
I was just telling my husband that writing these posts and some recent emails has help me learn some things about myself. It has also been a great creative release.
We just need to keep supporting each other on it.
VIVA la Frieda VIVA la Matisse!!!!
Posts: 188 | From NM | Registered: Feb 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
Has anybody done pottery on a wheel with lyme? That's something I want to go spend time doing.
I did some when I was in school and loved it. I am going to try to find somebody that would mentor me and let me come in and make stuff.
I may be getting a PICC line very soon and was trying to figure out if doing pottery (kinda messy) with that would be a bad idea.
I also paint, draw, and have been playing around with making some sculptures. Play guitar and write alot. Not able to sing most of the time with what lyme does to my voice.
Posts: 114 | From USA | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
5dana8
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7935
posted
Trail Thnakyou for the pictures.
They where both inspiration to me.
Specially now at this juncture in my life. I needed to be reminded that you can be disabled at times and still do something productive in bed.
A toast: To better and ceative days a head for all of us
Lets all raise our glasses ah (cups of tea and lemon water)to this toast!
-------------------- 5dana8 Posts: 4432 | From some where over the rainbow | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
trails
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1620
posted
I was making part of my living as a potter (wheel thrown vessels) when I had a picc line in 2001. I dont recommend throwing with IV. I went to handbuilt stuff during the IV part of my treatment, but returned to throwing once the IV was taken out.
You are not supposed to lift heavy things while on IV--and throwing can be labor intensive. Also throwing requires wedging (kneeding) of your clay and this is the most labor intesive part---it requires strength and lifting.
BUT---perhaps you can get someone to do that part for youwhile you are on IV? And the wheel throwing is the fun part anyhow. ALthough the whole prep of clay---it is such a process...
Try your local parks and rec dept of your city or county. And then try your public schools or community college. Often the public schools have a night time adult school offering courses that are reasonably priced. Community college does too.
Get MUDDY! Trails
Posts: 1950 | From New Mexico | Registered: Sep 2001
| IP: Logged |
posted
Wow, really glad this thread is happening. Azure Wish -- I've wondered that, too -- who would I have become without this disease? Would I be an artist? Would I be a therapist?
I'm sure that the therapist part was due to the psychological problems I suffered early on, and my desire to understand them -- would I have had them without Lyme??? Art, too, started out as a catharsis for emotional pain... now it is more of a joyous release.
I don't know the answers, but I do know that I like the person I've become, and that I am grateful for all the lessons learned. That said, I'm ready to get better, and now!
Crikey... no heavy lifting with IV? I'm not gonna like that.... doing injectables at the moment, so can still haul things around, even if it hurts like heck to do it...
-------------------- "Looks like freedom but it feels like death.. It's something in between, I guess"
Leonard Cohen, from the song "Closing Time" Posts: 822 | From California | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
What perfect timing for this thread, as I was just sitting around being heartbroken at all the art I can't do.
I used to do mixed media sculpture, acrylic and oil painting. And pastels......love the pastels.
Now that I am living back with my parents who are helping to take care of me, I look around and see all the art that I did hanging up and I get so frustrated.
Minimonkey, you talking about your show on Thursday was like a balm to me. Congratulations, I am so so so happy to hear that. So happy that one of us lymies is doing this! Say, is your show anywhere in the vicinity of Northern California?
Alison
--------------------
The obscure we see eventually. The completely obvious, it seems, takes longer. --- Edward R. Murrow Posts: 923 | From California | Registered: Aug 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
What's that quote about being an artist? I think it's if someone calls you an artist, then you must be one....or if you get paid for your work, you must be one?
At any rate, I do think when you get there you know you're there. Its that all consuming urge to be creative and you're not happy until you are.
I've been there. I started with stained glass work....graduated to art quilts(used to teach). My all consuming passion now is Jewelry/Silversmithing....which I'm still learning....but also painting looks really fun!
I've got problems with the creative spark also....that and waiting for good days. Those good days usually aren't spent on creative things....just getting stuff done.
Hope everyone gets that creative spark back....me too.
I PMed you too, but yes, the show is in San Francisco, at a restaurant. I have gallery representation, too, but that is in Atlanta.
Before I got the Lyme DX recently, I was seriously on the road to becoming severely disabled. I was trying to figure out how I'd manage to paint in a wheelchair, as well as continue working -- I decided I'd need two wheelchairs --- one clean one for my therapy work, and another that I could get all covered in paint!
I think I'd learn to paint with a brush in my mouth if it came to that -- it is that much a part of my being.
I miss pastels, too ( I used the soft "chalk" pastels)--- I stopped using them because of the dust and toxins.... I feel ready to start using them again, cautiously, wearing gloves and a mask... no more blowing the dust of with reckless abandon....
-------------------- "Looks like freedom but it feels like death.. It's something in between, I guess"
Leonard Cohen, from the song "Closing Time" Posts: 822 | From California | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
Yay! I PM'd you back. I will do my darndest to be there.
Chalk pastels were my favorite too...not the oil ones. I loved making a huge mess with those!
Alison
--------------------
The obscure we see eventually. The completely obvious, it seems, takes longer. --- Edward R. Murrow Posts: 923 | From California | Registered: Aug 2005
| IP: Logged |
trails
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1620
posted
where is the show Mini?????
are you willing to share the details here? I might be able to go!
Posts: 1950 | From New Mexico | Registered: Sep 2001
| IP: Logged |
Andie333
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7370
posted
Mini,
I just wanted to thank you for letting us know about your show.
It's really an inspiration, and I wish you much success!
Andie
Posts: 2549 | From never never land | Registered: May 2005
| IP: Logged |
hopeful123
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 3244
posted
mini, good luck with the show!!!!
-------------------- some days you're the bug, some days you're the windshield Posts: 1160 | From NY | Registered: Oct 2002
| IP: Logged |
posted
Oh, wow -- thanks for all the well wishes. The show is at 2223 Market St. in San Francisco -- it is a swanky restaurant with good display space. It is from 5-8 Thursday, the 16th (probably will be the 16th by the time anyone reads this....)
I'd love to have you guys there!!!!!!!!
-------------------- "Looks like freedom but it feels like death.. It's something in between, I guess"
Leonard Cohen, from the song "Closing Time" Posts: 822 | From California | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
trails
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1620
posted
Tonight's the night! You shine on MINIMONKEY!!
I cant make it to the opening, but I might be in SF either THIS weekend or some weekend in April....how long is it up for?
Have fun tonight! Trails
Posts: 1950 | From New Mexico | Registered: Sep 2001
| IP: Logged |
AZURE WISH
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 804
posted
I'm so glad to here your getting to have a show despite the lyme
trails
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1620
posted
how did it go minimonkey?? I thought about you a ton last night---was trying to picture what type of art you were displaying. I am prolly TOTALLY WRONG!
Let us know and also--how long is the show up?
Posts: 1950 | From New Mexico | Registered: Sep 2001
| IP: Logged |
It went well, I think -- pretty mellow, but a good, steady turnout -- especially as the evening wore on. I had no idea what to expect, as it was a restaurant (plus, it was sheeting down rain last night.) Got to see some old friends, which was really nice.
The best part was that I got to meet Alison (and her sister)!!! She is truly radiantly beautiful, both inside and out. That meant so much to me that she came!
I have a much-bigger-deal opening happening in late April in Atlanta -- I've recently been picked up by a gallery there (first one for me!) and will be traveling there for the opening of an abstracts show in which I will be heavily featured. I'm nervous about traveling what with the Lyme, but am going to assume that eveything will be fine.
If anyone is interested, I do have a website of my art -- I don't want to post a link 'cause it has my real name, but pm me and I will send it to you.
-------------------- "Looks like freedom but it feels like death.. It's something in between, I guess"
Leonard Cohen, from the song "Closing Time" Posts: 822 | From California | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
I felt so lucky to be able to make it to the show. The art, by the way, was absolutely magnificent. I love gorgeous abstracts, and was just beautiful, *all* of the pieces, although I had picked three fairly serious favorite pieces by the time I had walked past them all.
And it was so great to meet minimonkey, both of us there, drinking water lol. It was great to meet in person and have time for a bit of a chat, it was definitely worth the trip out and I'm soooo glad I went. I almost felt like a normal person doing normal person things!
I was so happy to go, meet someone as lovely as minimonkey, even though we were complete strangers - the whole Lyme thing was definitely a uniting factor, and I was so happy to be there to help with whatever support I could!
Not to mention that I walked away feeling very inspired and to the point where I feel like maybe I can begin to do art again. What a gift you gave me, minimonkey, thank you!
Alison
--------------------
The obscure we see eventually. The completely obvious, it seems, takes longer. --- Edward R. Murrow Posts: 923 | From California | Registered: Aug 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
Thank *you*, Alison! I loved having you there, and if I inspired you, that is the best news I've heard in a long time. I can't think of a higher honor than inspiring another artist.
-------------------- "Looks like freedom but it feels like death.. It's something in between, I guess"
Leonard Cohen, from the song "Closing Time" Posts: 822 | From California | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
Congrats on the show(s), minimonkey! I'm so sorry I could not be there. Sounds like things are movin' and shakin' for you! You're an inspiration.
posted
So happy to get away from the medical converstaions....you guys have a great thread goin!!
I have been studying at the lyme college for five years...as long as I have been sick (only migraines the first four though)...stopped painting in Nov. 05 when all hell broke out.
We have a group show at a bank in town-students and facutly...makes me feel like I am still involved.
I have also written a novel (not publilshed) and have published several stories.
I am having a hard time even talking about this to you right now cause I have been so ill and depressed lately and also feel like others that I am lost -- no identity.
I have to close my studio next month since I know I wont be using it and it is a waste of money...my medical bills and not working has rendered me impotent on all fronts.
I can barely grocery shop for my family.
I still read the art mags that come. When I am well, I want to do a series of paintings on pain and lyme disease.
I have such a need to express my feelings about this disease and what it has done to me. I never thought a human could experience such pain and devastation-both physcially, emotionally and spiritually.
And the isolation from others and God.
Maybe we could form an artist group and show our work in an online gallery...would love to get your ideas on this...
Best
-------------------- We are spiritual beings on a human journey...
posted
Human: Sorry you have to close your studio, and that you are suffering. I think a set of paintings on Lyme and pain sounds wonderful!
I also love the idea of a Lyme artist online gallery. We just need to find someone who's got enough energy to set it up. Maybe a Yahoo group or something?
Loosing the ability to create has been the worst thing about this disease for me. I've been inspired just reading posts in this thread from other artists.
The conversation here alone helps remind me I'm an artist even when I'm not cranking out work. Having the chance to other people's work would be like icing on the cake! Warmly, Elizabeth
posted
Wow, there are a lot of us! I haven't been on lymenet for a while, so I checked this post out first thing.
I do portraits in colored pencil, paint, animal portraits, also enjoy macrame(sp?), and lots of other media.
I pretty much love anything to do with art - drawing has been my passion since I was old enough to hold a crayon.
But, lately I just feel as if I'm in a rut. (like others have said on here - the "spark" is lacking) I have a portrait, a church building drawing, and some stamping pictures that I HAVE to do for other people that I'm having a hard time getting motivated to do them. Posts: 416 | From Southeastern PA | Registered: Sep 2003
| IP: Logged |
posted
humanbeing-we must be thinking the same thing...
I have been doing a collection on pain and lyme disease and being so sick, combined with bad medical experiences.
I started it late last spring before I knew I had lyme disease and was having really bad medical experiences. It has been very theraputic for me to get those emotions out and be able to share the experiences. It also gives me something to do, that makes me feel worthwhile and as if I am somehow contributing...not just laying around in bed.
Trails-Pottery...darn, I forgot about prepping the clay. In my mind I skipped to working on the wheel! I am going to see if anybody has a studio and could do private lessons or something with me. I have another one to two months before I get my PICC line.
If I feel up to it with the line in, hopefully somebody could prep the clay for me and I could cover the line to protect it. I was thinking about getting some clay and working with it at home. I just like the feel of it, and being able to make something so pretty out of it. We have several pieces around the house that I did when I was younger.
I'd like to do pieces we could eat with...mugs, etc. Will see!
I ditto everybody else...this is a great thread!
Are there any musicians on here? I play guitar and find it very theraputic. I worry about being able to play with the PICC line, but hope it won't affect things.
Posts: 114 | From USA | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
The obscure we see eventually. The completely obvious, it seems, takes longer. --- Edward R. Murrow Posts: 923 | From California | Registered: Aug 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
I see both sides of this one -- lyme has opened a lot of creative doors for me, I think, a lot of the time -- but the pain and disability have closed them from time to time, too --- particularly when I am too down physically to paint. (I've been blessed to have support so that this hasn't devastated me financially, and I've rarely been too entirely disabled to work.)
If we were to form a group and band together, we would have a good chance of getting a group show with a strong theme...we could raise lyme awareness and also get our art out there... am I just dreaming, or do we want to try something like that in the future???
In the mean time, an artist group/online gallery is a great idea! Anyone here tech-savvy enough to set it up????
-------------------- "Looks like freedom but it feels like death.. It's something in between, I guess"
Leonard Cohen, from the song "Closing Time" Posts: 822 | From California | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
trueblue
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7348
posted
quote:Originally posted by blackbirdsings:
I was thinking about getting some clay and working with it at home. I just like the feel of it
I ditto everybody else...this is a great thread!
Me too, I love clay most of all; everything about it, the texture, the coolness, even the smell.
I've been thinking about it for weeks, amongst other things, but clay calls to me the most.
I haven't done anything in so long I find myself grabbing crayons on the way into family restaurants and drawing on napkins.
It's time to do something, there's too much of me missing and I need something to ground me.
Thank you for starting this thread and to all that posted. I appreciate the nudge.
-------------------- more light, more love more truth and more innovation Posts: 3783 | From somewhere other than here | Registered: May 2005
| IP: Logged |
AZURE WISH
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 804
posted
humanbeing - It must be really hard to close down your studio..
I am disabled and can't work at all - so I live with my wonderful family -
My mom has been kind enough to let me use about 1/3 or so of the basement as a studio....
I have drawers, cabinets and containers filled with supplies...
Years ago my dad hung up a floresent light over my desk...
It is a really nice way to work .... if I can only work for 10 minutes its ok..
cuz the couch is only up the stairs and around the corner.
Maybe if you have a some space where you live...
even a basement or garage you could make that your new studio...
just till u get well.
It always made me feel better to have a place that I could do my art...
even when I was so sick I couldn't walk or hold a fork... much less think about even drawing... *****
I miss clay too.
Yesturday I just bought some mini sculpting tools..
As soon as I can I will use sculpy i also have some paper clay....
its a little less demanding then earthenware clay.
you dont have to prepare it or hollow it out. --
My art has always been an outlet for what I was going through....
Since I have been coping with lyme since I was 10 ... The lyme really has impacted my art...
Maybe thats why in art school my art was seen as so odd...
I have always tended to try to capture what makes us human though.
As soon as I can drive (hopefully soon) I am going to jion a local art club...
I really want to draw from models too. Alot of my work is figative.... even if its abstract.
anyone have any ideas where they might offer a class with models (cheap)?
Does anyone have any tricks to make water based oils dry faster?
I tend to paint in layers and this painting is for my mom...
at this rate it might be done in ten years. (and I used acrylics for the base coat)
posted
This is a great thread. I've always been creative and enjoyed lots of different mediums. I pretty much gave up even trying to do anything years ago. It would tire me out so much.
Just last December I discovered polymer clay and joined a group on Yahoo. They have been very helpful and I've made a few miniature babies out of it. I can see improvement with each one.
I am pretty much obsessed with it now and can't wait till I feel well enough to do it. I can't do it very often because the fatigue is so bad but when I do it is such a great feeling to take a block of clay and create a tiny baby from it.
I never thought of myself as a sculptor but I might just be one some day. LOL I just get so frustrated because I can't sculpt when I want to. My brain says sculpt but my body says rest. LOL If I'm not sculpting I'm thinking about it. I'd call that obsessed. LOL
It's great to see so many artists here. It's a shame this has been taken away from so many of us. I have also lost the creativity I used to have.
Sapphire101
Posts: 495 | From KY USA | Registered: Dec 2004
| IP: Logged |
trails
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1620
posted
Bad news my artsy fartsy friends:
I threw on the wheel for the first time in 3 years and paid for 3 days straight. My legs were SO sore...my back was seizing up and my hands ---there are muscles in there that were cramping that I didnt even know existed!
It was SO painful to throw too. All my joints were on fire and I just felt like crying the whole time. It was very dissappointing, even though I went with an open mind, just looking for FUN---no products.
I THREW great---I am still very skilled, but I am in much too much pain to ever consider doing it on any regular basis.
This has been beyond depressing for me. Dont worry---you dont need to cheer me up. I am very accepting of where I am. I just wanted to let you know how my "class" went.
Yuck. Posts: 1950 | From New Mexico | Registered: Sep 2001
| IP: Logged |
On the good news front (or the "I might be crazy front"), I have been inspired by you all to start a Yahoo group for us to display our art, writing, etc.
Anyone want to try it out? If it doesn't work, so be it. Or if anyone has a better idea of how do to this, I'm completely open. Yahoo was just the best thing I could think of.
posted
As Hopeful stated, "Loss of creative spark" ...along with the 'will' to be creative makes me feel wooden inside.
But then there are days the fog is lifted and boy do I take advantage of it!
I do not have formal education in the arts but I have many mediums that I love to create from.
Jewelry, beadwork, and floral design are the ones I have a monetary return on. I love the work also.
I used to paint, draw, throw clay, batik, copper enamel, and macrame intricate jewelry w/ beads.
Some of the above mediums were a challange for me but I had soooooooooo much fun anyway.
Great thread, thanks. I think I'll go create now, bye!
Stella Marie
-------------------- Stella Marie Posts: 694 | From US | Registered: Apr 2005
| IP: Logged |
ArtistDi
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 2297
posted
I am an artist--I paint in egg tempera and have used gold leaf as embellishment. About five years ago I was an art professor, had a private dealer in NYC who showed my work in Europe as well.
I also became an independent curator.
It has been difficult to create, but I keep going. I have just entered a couple of shows, one for disabled artists in Washington, DC. through the VSA arts, www,vsarts.org/transformation
One of my works has been reproduced in the book, "Grief Unseen." I am not sure if it has hit the American market yet as it is published in England.
At any rate, my art friends encouraged me to curate again, and I am working with a couple of artists trying to secure shows for them.
I want to paint, because it is an inherent part of me, and without it, I am lost. That part still lives in me, even when I am tired or my hands shake. I will myself to just do something.
You might want to try silverpoint--very nice drawing technique from the Renaissance. You can take your time and use Claybord, so the panel is already to go. You can find silverpoint pens online or make your own with a piece of jeweler silver in a mechanical pencil.
posted
Hopeful: Thank you (I assume you meant me in MN, not NJ... )! I've added the Lyme Artist Group link to my signature to encourage you all to come look and contribute when you feel up to it.
Stella Marie: I don't have a formal education in the arts either, but I have to create or I go crazy. And I've heard from some of my artist friends that lack of "formal" arts education can be a good thing...
ArtistDi: Your art life sounds wonderful! I used egg tempera for the first time for the one and only Russian Orthodox Icon I painted (or "wrote", as they say in the Icon business). I loved it so much that I invested in a lot of raw pigment, but haven't had the guts or health to try using them again.
Also, I found the book, Grief Unseen, by searching Google - Looks like a wonderfully rich source for healing. And thanks for the silverpoint idea. Hope the curator thing is good, and that you are able to find a way to paint again soon.
ArtistDi
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 2297
posted
Elizabeth, don't give up on the tempera. You can get Claybord so you don't have to prepare panels or you can go to the Society of Tempera Painters website and they have listings for sources of panels.
I remember that there is a place in NM that makes fairly good ones.
I am painting again, and have just primed two more panels on Sunday. I use a respirator to sand the panel down and I am extremely careful with my materials in terms of breathing dust, etc.
I just work a bit slower and I find that I must paint smaller to get more paintings done.
Take good care.
[ 21. March 2006, 06:31 PM: Message edited by: ArtistDi ]
Posts: 1567 | From Hatfield, MA, USA | Registered: Mar 2002
| IP: Logged |
hopeful123
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 3244
posted
elizabeth in mn,
i am sorry about the confusion. don't know where i got the nj from, but it doesn't take much to get confused, ya know.
to all,
i want to state that before the lyme robbed me of the creativity which has always been part of my life, i had major issues or blocks.
i have worked on them for years and years and still got 'em. related to abuse and deserving success and and pleasure.
the difference btw now and in the past, is that i used to get through a block and then be able to create the way i wanted. now, i still have blocks and the lyme brain fading artist's mind s**t.
just wanted to say that out loud, so that i will continue to fight and fight and fight for the right to be creative
thanks for listening
-------------------- some days you're the bug, some days you're the windshield Posts: 1160 | From NY | Registered: Oct 2002
| IP: Logged |
kelmo
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 8797
posted
loved this thread. Until my daughter improves, I'm her eyes and ears. She has bartonella. I was struck by your comment about having migraines for four years. That's how hers started. Then came the anxiety and depression.
She is an artist of sorts...an actress. She was finding line memorization taxing, when it used to come so easy. When her drama teacher violated her, she started the rapid decline in health.
It took over a year to find out this is a Lyme related disease and get in touch with a doctor.
He timetable of life has come to a halt. But, we keep a dream board...can't lose those dreams.
Art is a wonderful expression when in pain. One of my favorite paintings was done all in blacks and grays by my father in law when they told him he had cancer (he really didn't, it was a misdiagnosis).
Another "migraine" painting is Munsch (sp?) The Scream! Couldn't say it better!
Andie333
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7370
posted
Kelly,
I'm so glad you mentioned a dream board. I have an affirmation list I write and update regularly.
My list contains things from the most mundane to the most core, and it serves as hope and incentive.
I've been maintaining some variation of this for years. Interestingly, though, in the past I would lead with affirmation about my income. About a year ago, I realized that shifted.
Health moved to the top of that list, and income had dropped to about 7th or 8th place.
Nothing like Lyme to put things in fast perspective!
Andie
Posts: 2549 | From never never land | Registered: May 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
This thread is so inspiring, I've been hovering on it for days now. Thanks for getting it started and yes, it is good to discuss something other than medical issues.
Hats off to all you artists. I'm living vicariously through you until I'm better. Then I will be taking classes or whatever seems right. My personal passion is writing that started as therapy and turned into a necessity.
What carries me through now is helping my husband who is a theatre set designer at a high school. If you want to forget your problems temporarily, go hang out with 150 students after school. It is through their singing, dancing and sheer enjoyment of life that I heal.
Our art form is building sets, painting, lighting, sound, costuming, etc. It is a privilege to be around these wonderful kids and we are lucky to be in a school district that values the arts.
It also gives my teenage daughter a place to be and fit in when she has so much trouble academically.
Thanks again for starting this conversation!
Posts: 460 | From Illinois | Registered: Aug 2005
| IP: Logged |
SunRa
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 3559
posted
hey old and new friends! Count me in!
I got sick while studying art at school and due to severe neuro symptoms, pain, and MCS, I haven't been able to create much the past four years
My favourite media are B&W photography, abstract/surreal oil painting, etching, woodcuts, charcoal, etc. I also used to write music, play guitar, and I have a banjo, but got sick before I could learn to play it.
I won't let lyme win, but lately, I've really been struggling and feeling like I'm losing parts of myself. My art is a huge part of who I am and I hate not having that oulet to express myself. People have given me suggestions of new things to try, but anything that requires my focus will cause a major flare.
Lately creating art has become more of a stress for me since I flare up so badly and get extremely frustrated that I cant do what I used to be able to. I also get depressed that I don't have the creative ideas I had before lyme.
Even reading this post makes me emotional, but I thought maybe it would be more therapeutic to write than ignore it.
Like many artists, I've always been a little OCD with my art and always need the final product to be "perfect" in my mind. But since getting Lyme, my "OCD" has become even MORE of a problem, making creating ANYTHING nearly impossible, especially since I flare so much from even attempting the smallest projects.
Do anyone else have this problem?? I'm so upset that my passion has now become a major stressor in my life.
The only thing I've been able to do a little of lately is digital photography. It's not the same as being in the darkroom, but as long as I have the little window to look through, I still feel some joy
Anyway, thanks for letting me vent here. I'm flaring from even writing this, but when I feel a bit better, I will check out the Yahoo group. I think it's a great idea and would love to see others' work.
wishing you all peace & healing May our creativity flow!
Posts: 1563 | From MA | Registered: Jan 2003
| IP: Logged |
posted
I used to LOVE drawing, and before I got Lyme I was pretty good at it. When I'm sick, I can hardly draw stick figures. When I get better, I can draw quite realistically (sp?). It's quite weird.
What's weirder is that I've played piano since I was six, but always had to read music. When I got really, really sick with Lyme, I could suddenly play music by ear, but not read music. After the meds started working and I started getting better, that stopped. I've never been able to do it since. Has anyone else had something like that?
I love crafts though. I mostly crochet and knit, but I love cross stitch and embroidery and things. It's great to have somthing to do when I'm sick.
Posts: 19 | From Georgia | Registered: Feb 2006
| IP: Logged |
AZURE WISH
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 804
posted
Hi Everyone, Well, I figured out how to get a couple of my paintings up on the site...thank you El, for the opportunity to get things out there...I only wish I had new material...these are pre-lyme days. Best!!
-------------------- We are spiritual beings on a human journey...
posted
Man, I just love this thread. Even reading posts from those of use that are depressed and not creating -- I don't feel so alone.
Sun Ra: You are not alone. I have always been a bit OCD about art and everything. When my illness started impacting my hands, 12 years ago, I gave up all my art for a while. Nearly killed me, it was so painful.
I found over time new things that I could do for just a little bit, and I made myself do them, even if it was very bad. I started doing quick sketches on my Palm - really rough bitmap drawings. I sort of got into it, and they got a little better. They are by no means representational art, but they were fun.
I still have a hard time doing some art since I can't do it perfectly. Most things I can't to at all, just 'cause my hands won't work.
I'm trying to adopt the philosophy, "If it's not fun, don't do it." Hard to switch from perfection to fun, but I feel like it's helping.
Human: Thanks so much for posting your work on the Lyme Artist group. It is just beautiful!
posted
What an interesting collection of artistic endeavors...I am so impressed by the enthusiastic replies... my own attempts at creativity over the years were varied and mostly small amounts..ie;poetry,water colors,ink drawings and piano..never learned to read music..played by ear and actually developed quite a repetoir....but all of those things evolved into building.. mostly small wooden things..coffee table,corner closets and designing rock landscapes...My own garden would become a palate every spring and summer..each very different from the previous year..The summer after 9-11,my garden was planted in all red,white and blue......but alas as so many of you have written this evening,I too have lost my creative drive...can't think clearly to even begin on a design and am totally uninspired.. i feel lost within this sea of meds and waves of pain......and so it goes...hence my login name.."Bartonella Blues"...
Posts: 42 | From northern calif. | Registered: Mar 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
Wow! I'm so happy I found this thread!! I love that there are so many artists here.
Lyme disease does deaden something inside, doesn't it. I'm a different person because of it. Although, I put up with less bull now, because I'm just too tired.
I use to do collage....big ones. And paint. I love the smell of oils....now I make jewelry. It's fun and helps, because it is doing something creative....but it really doesn't feel creative the way painting, etc. did.
I'm starting to make lampwork beads....which I think will be more creative when I get good. The problem with this is playing with fire....not smart when you are tired and dizzy. So things just take longer.
Thanks so much for all the messages!! It's really wonderful to feel a connection with artists who have Lyme. I think we can understand each other!
Susan Posts: 92 | From Shepherdstown, WV | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
Hi Blues and Susan! I am inspired to hear about your artistic endeavors.
Susan, I love lampwork! I used to work in high-end polymer clay bead, mostly imitating natural stones or ancient beads and etching. I was on the verge of switching to lampwork when I first got really sick. Had to give up all hand work in general.
Blues: Do you still manage to garden?
Feel free to join the Lyme Artist Group listed at the bottom of this message. I would love to see pictures of both of your work -past or present. Warmly, Elizabeth
posted
[QUOTE]Originally posted by AZURE WISH: [QB] I was just wondering .... if their were any other artists on the board
and if there is ... how your lyme symptoms have effected your work.
Hi, AZURE WISH --
Just thought I'd add a vote of sympathy. I'm a writer, used other mediums mostly for myself -- beadwork, dyeing, drawing -- I have a BFA but never ended up doing much with the visual part of it. I am a published author, but I have written very little since around 2000. It is one of the two gauges I use to tell if I'm making progress -- can I do anything creatively, and how are my hands?
The %^$# is that I have Lyme arthritis, and was mis-diagnosed for years, same old same old. I finally found a LLMP last year here in Texas, but she just had to relocate to SF/CA, so I'm now a phone client. I was just starting to feel like writing again -- wrote two short pieces, started a third, was back working on a synopsis for another book, and then POW! Hit the Bicillin Shortage Wall. Went on amoxicillin a month, had two weeks of Herx before I really felt like functioning again. Hands so-so, creativity still in the toilet.
Back on Bicillin for another three weeks -- then start Flagyl and Zithromax (sp? her handwriting is Medical...) which I am dreading.
I will say this -- I started noticing after I'd been on the Bicillin a couple of months. The creativity is still there, believe me. Mine is seething like a coil of snakes just under the conscious level. Occasionally it blasts out and I sit at the computer for hours, taking notes.
It's the only thing keeping me going, other than my sweetie and some good friends. I was a tech writer eons ago, but would have to return to school for it, I haven't written for computers in a while. Now I'm an LMT/MTI, but I can't teach with no attention span. I can still do a very effective form of massage therapy on people -- I do one person a day, so I'm not broke yet. But I can't continue this as a profession, my hands won't take it. And I don't think I could keep up with the computer changes to push into web design full time.
If the brain can heal enough I want to go back to school and study something I can be useful at -- and hope I get the writing back. But I do have neuroborreliosis, so don't know how long this will go on. I figure if I'm writing again in six months I'm doing great.
Right now I have three web sites to finish designing and get up before I start the new drugs!
I hope you see some signs soon of your own creativity returning. Try to hang in there -- hope is a powerful medicine.
Posts: 8 | From Austin, TX | Registered: Mar 2006
| IP: Logged |
Polymer clay beads are so cool, too. I joined the yahoo group and will get some of my jewelry up and try to get some of my older pieces up at some point....I already have pics of the jewelry.
I hope more people put their work up....it was great seeing yours and those beautiful people pieces.
Susan
Posts: 92 | From Shepherdstown, WV | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
Susan: So glad you've joined us! I look forward to seeing your photos. I'm getting quite a thrill just looking at others work, both past and present.
Alfreda89: I'm a writer, too! (As well as a dabbler in many other media). I find it very hopeful that you have felt some creativity return occasionally. Thank you for sharing that.
What kind of work have you published, and what are you working on now? I'm working in fits and starts on a memoir. I'm going to try to apply for a local writing scholarship program, although I'm not sure I'm well enough to accept in the unlikely event I should win. (Is that right? Sounds terrible...)
Some weeks I don't write at all, but I try to at least journal a little, unless my hands are completely on strike.
The Lyme Artist group is for visual artists and writers, in case you want to post anything there. I haven't got any written work polished enough to share yet, but I'd love to see some of your work, if you feel like sharing.
posted
Yep, one day at a time. One of the Drs. at the Lyme conference said something that I found so interesting. One of the symptoms of Lyme disease (+ coinfections) that he (I think it was a he...Dr. R) noticed in his patients, is that people with Lyme disease don't think about or plan for the future....
and the past is a place where we would like to go back to - if we were well then....but mostly we are just trying to make it through each day....we live right now, in each day. I never could do that very well before.
After he said that I thought about it...it is so true for me. I never use to think about the future at all. I was more like an old person, near the end of my life....not much to look forward to.
But I've started feeling a little better lately and I notice that I am starting to think about my future as an artist more often. I have thoughts like "I can't paint today, but there will be time to do that someday"....it'a really a very different way of thinking!
Sorry to ramble on....can anyone else relate to the no future thing?
Susan Posts: 92 | From Shepherdstown, WV | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
Wow -- this thread totally got away from me! I'll have to go check out the yahoo site...
Holly -- I found your comment about playing by ear vs reading music interesting. I've wondered for a while now if playing by ear is something lyme related -- I can do it not only by ear, but from memory -- and I appear to have perfect pitch. I've suspected for a long time that there is something weird about my audial processing, as I literally *always* have a song stuck in my head, and I can also remember lyrics I havent heard for 20 years.
I hope I don't lose that (the playing by ear part) when I get better. The song in the head I could do without most days, and I certainly wouldn't mind being able to read music better!
-------------------- "Looks like freedom but it feels like death.. It's something in between, I guess"
Leonard Cohen, from the song "Closing Time" Posts: 822 | From California | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
AZURE WISH
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 804
posted
Lymesly you said "....can anyone else relate to the no future thing?"
Yes defintely!
When I was so bad I couldnt walk or hold a fork and I was only awake about 4 hrs a day...
Then I had to focus all my energy (which was very limited) on trying to get from the couch to the bathroom... and doing other function things.
Now I still have a long way to go before I will be able to teach but I can see myself teaching...
I know its there and I can almost touch it.
Same with my art.
Once and awhile I can paint or glue...
but I think well maybe in a month or so I'll be able to work with plaster and eventually someday get back to carving wood.
When you are so sick I think you get trapped in the moment out of necessity (needing to function)
I am going to put some stuff up on the site as soon as I get some pics...
maybe I'll include a couple poems it will take me a little while to sort through them though.
posted
I'm an artist too, kinda. I ahve some sketches and pastels. I will try to load them sometime...
-------------------- ~Things may happen in my life time to change who I am but I refuse to let them reduce me...~ Posts: 968 | From private | Registered: Jan 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
It's so fun to see other people's art! I love it.
Azure: You are so right....you do get trapped in the moment....that's a good way to put it.
When I was really sick, I would have fleeting ideas/moments of thinking "But I am suppose to get better at lampworking...well maybe in my next life".
I always had hope I'd get better....but I really don't know if I believed I would.
I've heard this before, but at times I wouldn't have minded if I just died.
Except for my son. My next thought would be "Ben needs me".
Susan
p.s. Azure, it sounds like you are getting so much better! That is wonderful!!
Posts: 92 | From Shepherdstown, WV | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
Have you tried 1) warm baths with some epson salts or cider apple vinegar (the real thing, NOT Heinz apple cider FLAVORED vinegar and 2) gentle massage? You've got to knock out those triggers before they get worse. However, if you're that seized up, talk to the LMT on the phone first. They need to know that you are seriously Herxing, and that you might be able to handle only a couple of TrP clearings. You don't need anyone telling you that a bunch of painful releases all at once is good for you. How much you can stand at once is a decision only you can make.
You really need Critz Release, but it's new and there are only a few states you can find people doing it. Little to no pain to giver or receiver. That helps me. Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy also helps -- it is gentle and draws fluids to the cells to move wastes out, AND gives me back more mobility. Better than manual lymphatic drainage. But -- don't have it on a day when your joints are swollen, because they'll stay inflamed an extra day (at least that happened last time to one finger.)
I feel for your not being able to throw -- I have these story ideas just out of reach, I can feel them, I get glimpses -- but no continuity....
quote:Originally posted by trails: Bad news my artsy fartsy friends:
I threw on the wheel for the first time in 3 years and paid for 3 days straight. My legs were SO sore...my back was seizing up and my hands ---there are muscles in there that were cramping that I didnt even know existed!
It was SO painful to throw too. All my joints were on fire and I just felt like crying the whole time. It was very dissappointing, even though I went with an open mind, just looking for FUN---no products.
I THREW great---I am still very skilled, but I am in much too much pain to ever consider doing it on any regular basis.
This has been beyond depressing for me. Dont worry---you dont need to cheer me up. I am very accepting of where I am. I just wanted to let you know how my "class" went.
Yuck.
Posts: 8 | From Austin, TX | Registered: Mar 2006
| IP: Logged |
The Lyme Disease Network is a non-profit organization funded by individual donations. If you would like to support the Network and the LymeNet system of Web services, please send your donations to:
The
Lyme Disease Network of New Jersey 907 Pebble Creek Court,
Pennington,
NJ08534USA http://www.lymenet.org/
UBBFriend: Email this page to someone!
![[Smile]](smile.gif)
![[hi]](graemlins/hi.gif)
![[group hug]](graemlins/grouphug.gif)
![[kiss]](graemlins/kissing.gif)
![[Cool]](cool.gif)
![[bow]](graemlins/bow.gif)
![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
![[shake]](graemlins/shake.gif)
![[Wink]](wink.gif)
)! I've added the Lyme Artist Group link to my signature to encourage you all to come look and contribute when you feel up to it. ![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
![[Frown]](frown.gif)
Printer-friendly view of this topic