It is unseasonably chilly here in central Virginia, but somehow spring still makes its way. A buckeye sapling is unfurling its leaves and the crab apple in the far corner of our yard is in full bloom. The geraniums are leafing out (ready for printing yet again) and Trevor, the frog fountain, is waiting for action in his soapstone basin. The fruit trees are blooming as well, both plums and asian pears try hard to attract the honey bees... Thanks to all of you who visited the bloom show, in person or in spirit. The opening went well and the middle room in the gallery was bursting with lushness, flora, and fresh imagery. 

Things are really busy over here. I am getting ready for an upcoming show at The Barn Swallow called bloom. It is a collaborative event where several artists create objects inspired by the arrival of spring, blossoms, and sprouting growth. I am honored to be part of this endeavor, along with talented artists such as potter Janice Arone, jewelry designer Leslie Chisholm, photographer John Grant, and painter Leslie Banta. Now, as always when preparing for an event, I get wrapped up in an abundance of ideas and never quite know what the end result will be. This time I am trying some new things such as the linen roses above (inspired by a project on the wonderful Japanese fabric store Linnet's website) and another version of a fabric flower at the bottom of the post.