The Artful Mind January 2024

THE BERKSHIRES SOURCE FOR PROMOTING ART TO THE NEXT LEVEL | In Print & Online Free Since 1994

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024

LINDA MASON Photograph by Bobby Miller

KEITH DAVIDSON

Stillness

www.davidsondesigncompany.net Studio appointments, please call 413-528-6945 Keith and Mary original artwork for sale Studio/gallery, South Egremont, MA

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 Nothing between my and my art.

RICHARD NELSON Digital Artist and Musician ...16

INTERVIEW BY H. CANDEE

LINDA MASON Make-Up Artist, Entrepreneur, Visual Artist COVER / INSIDE PHOTOGRAPHY : BOBBY MILLER...28 ASTROLOGY FOR CREATIVES Dee Musgrave - January 2024 ...45 RICHARD BRITELL | FICTION THE PRODIGAL DOG PT. 4: VALERIA ...47

Publisher Harryet Candee Copy Editor

Marguerite Bride

Third Eye Jeff Bynack Distribution Ruby Aver Carolyn Kinsolving

JANE GENNARO

Contributing Writers Richard Britell Deanna Musgrave Contributing Photographers Edward Acker Tasja Keetman Bobby Miller

ADVERTISING RATES 413 - 645 - 4114 artfulmind@yahoo.com issuu.com | Instagram FB: ARTFUL MIND GALLERY for Artful Minds 23 The Artful Mind PO Box 985 Great Barrington, MA 01230

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THE NEW JACK PAAR SHOW IT’S A PRINT! jgennaro@mac.com THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 1

MARK MELLINGER Paintings - Collage - Constructions

HOTEL ON NORTH FEB 2 - MARCH 31, 2024 297 NORTH ST., PITTSFIELD, MA

CLOCK TOWER ARTISTS 3rd Floor 75 South Church St Pittsfield MA 914. 260. 7413 instagram.com/mellinger3301 markmellinger680@gmail.com Thic Nath Hanh. Acrylic on canvas, 51"x 36"

DON LONGO

"The Berkshire winter nights were still, the cold was sharp and there was not a sound to be heard.

In this solitude I found comfort."

- Don Longo

www.donlongoart.com Facebook: Don Longo Instagram: don_longo Email: dljoseph55@yahoo.com STILL OF THE NIGHT 24" x 24"

2 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

RICHARD CRIDDLE

SEAMAN Steel, aluminum, bronze Made during Salem2Salem 2022, an annual international artist residency and exchange program at Salem Art Works, Salem NY 61” x 20” x 22”

RICHARD CRIDDLE richardcriddle55@gmail.com | mobile (413) 652-5952 richardcriddlesculpture.com | Instagram criddle_richard THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY

Bobby Miller 28 Greenwood Circle, Egremont, MA 01230 508 - 237 - 9585 troubleblonde@comcast.net

By Appointment Only

THE ARTFUL MIND presents

ON THE CANVAS “The transience of life and the importance of cherishing every moment”

A GROUP ART SHOW April 13 —May 11, 2024 Reception: Saturday, April 13 • 5 - 7:30pm Open daily Noon - 5pm TSL WAREHOUSE TIME & SPACE LIMITED 434 COLUMBIA STREET, HUDSON, NY ARTFULMIND@YAHOO.COM 413 - 645 - 4114

4 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 5

THIS SIDE OF PARADISE OIL ON CANVAS, 1985, 72”X 96”

PAMELA BERKELEY

In 1981 I was working on my third solo show at the G.W. Einstein Gallery in NYC. Three months before the opening I was attacked by a dog. Its bite severed the nerve in my right hand, causing paralysis, with little chance of recovery.

After microsurgery and a year of grief, I could still not use the fine 000 brushes for working my tightly controlled, detailed paintings of Maine and NYC landscapes, glass jars in gardens, fish tanks in windows. Everything changed. The entire scale and concept became huge: large brushes and large strokes and large canvases.

Friends, mostly artists and actors, posed with animals in fantastic environments. Eash painting developed into a story that I left audiences to figure out. I enjoyed painting actors; it gave me a vicarious charge. (I had studied acting at HB Studios in NY for 5 years.) Red Grooms, John Malkovich, Willem Dafoe, Theresa Russell, and others have posed for me. I feel my work is realistic, although it has references to personal relationships, literary allusions and dreams.

John Lurie, musician, actor and old friend posed for “This Side of Paradise” with leopards in a jungle. He also appears with she-wolves in “The Last Temptation” in an elegant room in the Dakota Apartments, famous for its hauntings.

Then the Towers fell, and I left my loft in SOHO and NY apartment to move to the woods of the Berkshires, where I have friends. It began a new phase in my life and my painting, as I have recovered full use of my hand.

Pamela Berkeley www.pberkeley.com therealpamelaberkeley@gmail.com

ART BY AMY PRESSMAN AND BARBARA PATTON

GUILD OF BERKSHIRE ARTISTS 10TH ANNIVERSARY 2024 SPECIAL EXHIBITION

As one of the many art events scheduled for 2024, The Guild of Berkshire Artists is presenting “Musings on Nature” in the Anna and Frank Henry Leonhardt Galleries at the Berkshire Botanical Gardens from February 9 - February 25, 2024. Opening reception is February 9 and gallery hours are Tuesday - Sunday from 11-4 In “Musings on Nature” member artists were challenged to interpret their concept of what nature means to them. Is it colors, textures, the amazing beauty of life in nature? Is it the complexity as well as the simple beauty of spring tulips, fall leaves and sunsets? The artists will tell us what moves them in nature.

Through the years the Guild’s Plein Air group has met on Thursdays at the Botanical Garden to paint and share the beauty. The garden’s welcoming hospitality has been greatly appreciated by all who spend time visually capturing the natural surroundings. It is easy to see how the Guild and the Garden’s missions dovetail and support one another.

The Guild of Berkshire Artists is a nonprofit visual arts organization that supports and promotes its’ members through education, exhibits, community events and a member gallery. A longheld dream of a brick-and-mortar gallery was realized in 2022 with the birth of Art on Main Gallery 38 Main Street West Stockbridge. In the last two seasons over 40 member artists have exhibited their artwork in mini group shows and have learned the process of curating and presenting their work in a warm, welcoming environment.

Guild of Berkshire Artists For more information visit their website at www.berkshireartists.org

“It is important to express oneself...provided the feelings are real and are taken from you own experience.”

—Berthe Morisot

6 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

CLOSE ENCOUNERS WITH MUSIC AVALON STRING QUARTET

Close Encounters With Music’s Winter / Spring 2024 concerts open on February 11, 4PM at Saint James Place in Great Barrington, with the return of the estimable Avalon String Quartet, bringing to the stage the Berkshire premiere of “For Such a Time as This.” The work is a retelling of the biblical Book of Esther for string quartet and vocalist, from a feminist perspective.

Composer Stacy Garrop’s (recent commissions from the Pittsburgh, St. Louis and Louisiana symphony orchestras) intent is to remind us “we each possess agency to make changes happen in our lives, to act upon injustices, and leave the world a better place.”

Mezzo-soprano Julia Bentley takes on the role of narrator, alternatively playing Queen Vashti, King Ahasuerus (identified as the historical Xerxes), Queen Esther and her guardian Mordecai from the 5th century BCE scroll, as well as the villain Haman who seeks to annihilate the entire Jewish population of Persia – modern day Iran.

Bentley has been featured soloist with orchestras led by Raymond Leppard, Oliver Knussen, Robert Shaw and Pierre Boulez.

In choosing the biblical tale, Garrop says, “I find several striking points. First, women had little or no agency over their lives. Biblical times were a man’s world. Vashti’s banishment at the beginning of the Book sets this tone immediately.

The question whether Esther possesses the agency to act is addressed head on.” Court intrigue, a beauty pageant, and an averted genocide are elements of the gripping story, set to dramatic music.

Performers include: Julia Bentley, narrator/mezzo-soprano, Avalon String Quartet: Blaise Magniere, violin; Marie Wang, violin; Anthony Devroye, viola; Cheng-Hou Lee, cello, CEWM has resumed its hors d’oeuvres and wine receptions. There is an Afterglow Reception in Saint James Place’s Great Hall following the concert in the Sanctuary Space. In addition to offering live in-person concerts, curated online performances will be available to accommodate geographically remote listeners and newly expanded virtual followers.

Tickets can be purchased at www.cewm.org or by calling 800-843-0778.

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 7

FILM NIGHT II@ERIC.KORENMAN.PHOTOGRAPHY MODEL:@LARAGIONEDREAMER

DEBORAH H. CARTER MULTI-MEDIA ARTIST Deborah H. Carter is a multi-media artist from Lenox, MA, who creates upcycled sustainable wearable art. Her couture pieces are constructed from post-consumer waste such as food packaging, wine corks, cardboard, books, wire, plastic, and other discarded items and thrifted wares. She manipulates the color, shape, and texture of her materials to compel us to question our assumptions of beauty and worth and ultimately reconsider our habits and attitudes about waste and consumerism.

A sewing enthusiast since the age of 8, Deborah first learned her craft by creating clothing with her mother and grandmothers. Her passion took hold as she began to design and sew apparel and accessories. After graduating with a degree in fashion design from Parsons School of Design in New York City, she worked as a women’s sportswear designer on Seventh Avenue.

Deborah’s art has been exhibited in galleries and art spaces around the US. She was one of 30 designers selected to showcase her work at the FS2020 Fashion Show annually at the University of Saint Andrews, Scotland. She has featured in the Spring 2023 What Women Create magazine.

Deborah Carter 413-441-3220, Clock Tower Artists, 75 S. Church St., Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Studio 315, 3rd floor. Instagram: @deborah_h_carter Debhcarter@yahoo.com

MATT BERNSON TRIANGULATION STATION, 18” W X 24” H

WE WILL WAIT

BRUCE LAIRD

I am an abstract artist whose two- and threedimensional works in mixed media reveal a fascination with geometry, color and juxtapositions.

For me it is all about the work which provides surprising results, both playful and thought provoking.

From BCC to UMASS and later to Vermont College to earn my MFA Degree. I have taken many workshops through Art New England, at Bennington College, Hamilton College and an experimental workshop on cyanotypes recently at MCLA. Two international workshops in France and Italy also.

I am pleased to have a studio space with an exciting group of artists at the Clocktower Building in Pittsfield.

Bruce LairdClock Tower Business Center, Studio #307 75 South Church Street, Pittsfield, MA

ITS TIME TO SHOW YOUR ART

ARTFULMIND@YAHOO.COM 413.645.4114 8 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

FIGURATIVE ARTIST AND PROVOCATEUR

Born and raised just north of Boston, Matt Bernson is a dynamic and provocative figurative artist known for his bold and playful take on the human form. A graduate of Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt), Bernson boasts a BFA in Animation & Painting, a duality that is evident in the fluidity and vibrancy of his work.

After a decade of honing his craft, Bernson made a significant move to the Berkshires in 2020. This transition marked a new chapter in his artistic journey, offering fresh inspirations and opportunities. Matt’s passion for community and collaborative creativity led him to join the Future Labs Gallery Co-op in 2023, a platform that has hosted his art since 2022.

Bernson’s artistry reached new heights in September 2023, when he shared the spotlight in a two-person show at Future Labs Gallery. Known for his wit and irreverence, his artist bio for the show was a cheeky one-liner: “Wanna see some butts?” This encapsulates Bernson’s ethos perfectly, a fearless artist who invites his audience to share in his delight and fascination with the human form.

Bernson’s work is far from conventional, and it’s this daring and distinctive approach that sets him apart. With every piece he creates, Bernson continues to push boundaries, challenge perceptions, and infuse a sense of fun and freedom into the world of figurative art. Additionally, in October 2023, he started a figure drawing group at Future Labs Gallery, fostering a supportive community for artists.

Matt has worked as both a caricature artist and as a tattoo artist. And completed an artist residency in May 2023 where he completed two 20”x24” paintings within a week and showed them at Dacia Gallery in New York City.

Matthew Bernsonmatthew.bernson@gmail.com Instagram @MattBernson.Art

CANDACE EATON

War Bride 40” x 56” Oil | Archetype & Icons Series This painting presents the issue of war and rape and expresses the inner strength and dignity of women and the refusal of victimhood despite the external violations that continue still. My Icon and Archetype paintings affirm that our human nature shares a commonality throughout the ages. I consciously work in a generalized realistic style, unbound by any specific movement or trend. These paintings challenge the viewer to accept the multiple layers of realities and dualities that exist in one frozen moment, in each human being.

—Candace Eaton

www.candaceeaton.com candaceeatonstudio@gmail.com candace@candaceeaton.com (631) 413-5057

Studio: Sheffield, MA The artist also accepts commissions for portaits THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 9

Matt Bernson

Cat by the Window, markers on paper, 5 x 5” x 8.5”

portrait painter • caricaturist matthew.bernson@gmail.com • Instagram @MattBernson.Art 10 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

MOLLIE KELLOGG

Creative Sorceress Mollie Kellogg conjures a magickal world through canvas, film, music and dance. Her award-winning Incognito Witch Project celebrated hidden magick. Prior to the Witch Project, which launched in 2009, Mollie’s work focused on motherhood themes, and figurative magical realism. Mollie is currently working from Dalton, MA in her in-home studio on fine art commissions, commercial ad design, and interdisciplinary passion projects.

Non-essential musing: I sense that creativity is somehow channeled from the universe and everyone has the ability to tap into it — and I believe if you ignore it, or crimp off your “creative flow” for whatever reasons (personal, work, fear, family, abuse, insecurity, time…), then you may suffer over time in some unexpected way.

I hope the artistics and non-creatives alike come to recognize that they can bring creativity into their everyday activities in baby steps — such as spending a little more time coordinating an outfit, putting on makeup or styling one’s hair; humming or singing a song, or tinkering on an instrument; doodling, writing poetry, jotting down dreams, or journaling; arranging the furniture, flowers, or the knick knacks on the shelf; playing, laughing, pretending, visualizing — taking pleasure in these rituals as time permits. It doesn’t need to be a big production to get a little more creative juice flowing in your life.

Mollie Kellogg 413-242-4108 artist@molliekellogg.com www.creativesorceress.com www.molliekellogg.com www.vimeo.com/molliekellogg

CANDACE EATON

“Each gesture is its own psychological statement...” The unfolding of the life force within me as it comes in contact with the given world about me motivates me creatively. The heart of the human experience, when it enters the numinous is beyond any style or “brand” of art and does not belong to any movement.

American Archetype and Icon Series - I am dedicated to presenting the complexities and dualities inherent in our human nature. Because my paintings function on multiple levels – social, psychological and spiritual, I have reduced the image to its most sparse. I consciously work in a fairly traditional technique, which allows me to manipulate the figure with any subtle augmentations needed to enhance a gesture. I delete all but the essential props, so the gesture dominates the often poster- like format: This frees me to delve into our human condition both psychological and spiritual, even when I use a particular current or social issue to highlight this. These Archetypes and Icons stimulate an awareness that arises when the multiple layers of reality are allowed to exist in one frozen moment, in one human being.

Jazz Horse Series - my Jazz/Horse series spring onto the canvas, where I basically control only the composition. They are muse-driven from the primal life force within each of us that can be sterilized out of us. Eros has its opposite in Thanatos.

Despite the perceived erotic overtones of many of these Jazz/Horse paintings, this very merging with the other brings us out of the illusion of isolation and time and gives us a glimpse of the eternal pulse of life outside of our temporal perception of time. They are a door to a more spirited and spiritual life; a celebration of the joining of duality and joy of being totally present when the “I” and “Thou” merge with the creative pulse of being.

Candace Eaton631-413-5057 www.candaceeaton.com candaceeatonstudio@gmail.com candace@candaceeaton.com

IRWIN FELD

OPENS DESIGN GALLERY/WORKSPACE With more than 25 years of design and retail experience, Irwin Feld, Hillsdale, NY resident and custom furniture designer, is bringing his home design business, Irwin Feld Design to the Hamlet.

Located in the historic Althouse-Higgins house, a restored 1845 home at 2666 State Route 23, Feld intends to expand his design and consulting business and offer items from his extensive vintage and custom home furnishings collections.

“This is a dream now realized. This space was created exactly to fit my needs” says Feld, who also maintains a presence in Manhattan’s New York Design Center. “I label myself more of a home design coach or consultant and really rely on the client to make decisions. The key to a successful relationship is a mutual exchange of thoughts and ideas. My goal is to assist in the creating an ideal home environment, blending my design expertise with the client’s vision, and tailor them in a thoughtful, practical way”, says Feld.

In addition to vintage furniture and accessories, select pieces from Feld’s custom furniture line, CF MODERN, will also be available.

Irwin Feld Design 2666 County Route 23 Hillsdale, New York 917-699-6024; Hours: By Appointment Irwinfelddesign.com; irwinfelddesign@gmail.com.

“Whether you succeed or not is irrelevant, there is no such thing.

Making your unknown known is the important thing.”

—Georgia O’Keeffe

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 11

SCHOOL’S OUT, 21” X 29”

ARTIST MARY ANN YARMOSKY

THE RED CATFISH, 41” X 32”

KEITH DAVIDSON A native of the Berkshires, Keith has been painting for the last 20 years, motivated by the natural beauty of his surrounding environment. Keith shares a studio with his wife Mary, at their home in South Egremont.

Keith’s dazzling collection of colorful, creative, “fish” paintings are inspired by his love of fishing and boating. He also has a tree collection, flowers and vibrant experimental paintings by combining objects in nature with geometric forms.

Keith has had many paintings juried into the Housatonic Valley Art League summer shows, receiving six “Best in Show,’ eleven “Awards of Excellence,” and seven “Honorable Mentions.”

Keith is an artist who has had regional influence, and many of his paintings hang in private collections throughout the tristate area.

Keith considers himself to be a self-taught artist, although he has participated in classes at BCC and IS 183. His medium of choice is acrylic paints, used in a very watery base like watercolor. Paintings are framed under acrylic glass and double matted.

Keith Davidson 413-717-2152 kjdavidsongio@aol.com www.davidsondesigncompany.net

CLOCK WATCHER (DETAIL) STEEL, ALUMINUM, RUBBER, RESIN, ACRYLIC PAINT MADE IN 2023 WHILE ON RESIDENCY AT MAC STEEL, RUTLAND VT 56” X 28” X 15”

RICHARD CRIDDLE SCULPTOR-HUNTER-GATHERER I grew up in a time and place where children were beaten by schoolteachers for simple 'failings' like not-knowing or struggling to learn, and my work is often autobiographical, telling stories from my childhood. Memory plays tricks though, as individual recollections fade into and out of sight. Each one of my sculptures is a story from my childhood that came into focus as the sculpture itself took shape, entwined.

Found and scavenged objects often act as triggers, or guides. Chance encounters with unfamiliar yet recognizable objects can amplify memories by reconnecting, reassembling the disparate parts.

Making a sculpture becomes a way to hear a story differently, a way to listen better, to find a better understanding. Oftentimes, digging deep, I find subjects I’d prefer to overlook. My sculptures hold them in view, takes the vague, and sometimes painful, and makes it concrete.

-RICHARD CRIDDLE, OCTOBER 2023 Richard Criddle413-652-5952 richardcriddle55@gmail.com richardcriddlesculpture.com Instagram criddle_richard

We long for a way to be heard from the moment we are born. For some, words suffice; for others, there needs to be a deeper form of expression.

That is how artists are born. Where one might send their message through an instrument in the form of music, another might write poetry or prose. Still, others speak in something more tangible through painting, photography, pottery, or sculpting. Words only bring us so far…art is the language of longing…a longing never fulfilled.

I have always found expression through art. At age five, I began speaking through the piano that sat waiting expectantly in our den, an instrument that brought me peace throughout the years. Later I took to creating through fashion design, dreaming up and constructing costumes for the Boston Opera Company and outfits for the fashionable elite of Newport, Rhode Island. From there, my path took many twists and turns as I lived as a wife, mother, caretaker, and professional career.

When my youngest son passed away unexpectedly several years ago, my longing to be heard returned with a vengeance. Words did not suffice. There are no words to express grief and hope for what is lost. On that journey of anguish, I met other women who had or were experiencing their style of pain. I marveled at their resilience and ability to go on despite different types of loss or simply dealing with the uphill complexities of life’s challenges. I began to recover my voice through paint and a bit of canvas, but it was not just my voice. The women I create in paint are a composite of the many amazing women I have met and continue to meet. I paint their humor, joy, hidden heartbreak, and longing. These women do not exist except on canvas, and their stories are yours to imagine. Hear them.

Mary Ann Yarmoskymaryannyarmoskyart.com maryannyarmosky.shop

“I think it’s important to remember that making art is a process.

It is never finished. The occupation itself is one of process, exploration, and experimentation.

It is one of questioning and examining.”

— Mel Robson 12 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

Pamela Berkeley

Thanks for the Trouble You Took from Her Eyes, Portrait of Willem Dafoe, Oil on Canvas, 48in x 72in, 1990

Current/Upcoming Shows David M. Hunt Library, 63 Main Street, Falls Village, CT 06031 Annual 12x12 Show – 12/9/23 to 1/12/24 Opening Reception on 12/9/23, 4pm to 6pm Rockland Arts Festival, 77 Bardonia Road, Bardonia, NY 10954 USA 2024 Virtual Festival – 1/26/24 to 2/9/24, www.RocklandArtsFestival.org In person event Sunday, 2/2/24 at Palisades Center, West Nyack, NY MVA Gallery, 35 E. Elizabeth Avenue, Suite 313, Bethlehem, PA 18018 A Tribute to Small Art – 1/28/24 to 2/25/24

PAMELA BERKELEY therealpamelaberkeley@gmail.com (413) 717-8264 https://www.pberkeley.com/ (Artist videos of exhibitions are attached) Gallery: https://www.bluemountaingallery.org/

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 13

2666 Route 23 Hillsdale NY

Photograph by Marica Feld

BOOK A DESIGN CONSULTATION IRWINFELDDESIGN@GMAIL.COM IRWINFELDDESIGN.COM 917.699.6024 14 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

WAKING UP TO A NEW DAY, FROM BREAKAWAY SERIES 36" X 48" MIXED MEDIA ON CANVAS ON WEST ROAD ENTERING THE VILLAGE, ALFORD, MA INK DRAWING

STEPHAN MARC KLEIN

CLASSIC FLORA, WILDFLOWER ENGAGEMENT RING

TW MCCLELLAND & DAUGHTERS CREATIVE FINE JEWELRY Tim McClelland is a fine jeweler in Great Barrington, MA known for his 20+ years as the creative hands and mind behind McTeigue & McClelland Jewelers. He has been practicing the art of jewelry making for more than 50 years.

Engagement rings from his Wildflower Collection are worn by editors of Vogue, Vanity Fair, W, Town & Country, Martha Stewart Weddings, and acclaimed by many more. TWM original pieces have graced the red carpets of the Oscars and Cannes.

Tim uses ancient and traditional jewelry making techniques to bring to life timeless, inspired jewelry. His work is known the world over by jewelry connoisseurs and those who seek out originality, beauty and quality. In his designs Tim is inspired by nature, humor, light, balance, and the materials themselves. He uses his his work to create a joyful expression in a tiny space. Most importantly Tim hopes to be of service to his community and customers.

Beginning this Autumn the TWM atelier doors will open to the public, Thurs., Fri, Sat, 11 - 5pm!

Please join our mailing list via twmcclelland.com for an invite to the opening.

Contact us directly about all things jewelry at info@twmcclelland.com or 413-654-3399.

Follow along on Instagram and Pinterest at @twmcclelland

I have been sketching and making art on and off since my undergraduate education as an architect in the late 1950s. What interests me at present about creating art, besides the shear visceral pleasure of making things, of putting pencil or pen or brush or all of them to paper, of manipulating images on the computer, and of making models, is the aesthetic tension generated in the borderlands between the abstract and the representational, between uniqueness and reproduction, and between analog and digital processes. I am also interested in art that engages the social, the political and the visual. Since my wife, artist Anna Oliver, and I made our home in the Berkshires six years ago, I have been entranced by its beauty.

My work is, in part, a visual rhapsody to the area.

Stephan Marc Klein stephanmarcklein.com, smk8378@gmail.com

ERIKA LARSKAYA

Confinement and Breakaway examine the mental state of struggle to make sense of our environment, both physical and psychological. I incorporate childlike drawing to represent nonconformity; the unadulterated state before we get confined by rules, commitment, insecurities, and other “add-ons.”

“I distress and repair parts of the painting, as we do within ourselves. The drawings of floor plans and elevations, which I use as a starting point, create a sense of enclosure, which I expand by continuing the lines outward, breaking the structural pattern. This alters the sense of confinement, breaking away from the [rigid, static] norm”.

Erika Larskaya https://www.erikalarskaya.art

Abstract Milkweed

BRUCE PANOCK WWW.PANOCKPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

BRUCE@PANOCKPHOTOGRAPHY.COM 917-287-8589

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 15

RICHARD NELSON DIGITAL ARTIST AND MUSICIAN Interview by Harryet Candee

Photographs Courtesy of the Artist

I like to create projects for myself. I was king of the all-nighters in college.

Sleep is a waste unless you can remember your dreams. —RN Harryet Candee: How do you feel now that you’re back in the music and art scene? It must be exciting to dive back into those creative outlets!

Richard Nelson: It’s amazing, really. I can’t believe, after all this time, that something so near and dear to my heart is at the center of my daily existence. The best part is it’s not just for me. I am receiving a lot of encouragement from people I know and strangers who have become new friends. Their enthusiasm is truly amazing.

Did you have time for art and music while working full-time at The Beacon 443 Diner?

RN: Well, my bar napkin doodles were legendary.

I was just another employee early in my career at the diner, so I had scheduled hours. The rest of the time was my own. Unless, of course, Chris, my wife, would give me a list. At the time, I was primarily interested in music. Jamming was my favorite; sitting around drinking beer and playing 16 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

whatever came out. Sometimes, it was good; sometimes, not so much. After moving to Lehighton from Philadelphia, I lost my jamming partners and had to become a one-man band. Fortunately, Radio Shack’s affordable but comprehensive inventory of electronic toys helped me along the way. So, I got a mixing console and two playback tape decks and used the tapes to overdub. I would plug my instrument into the mixer with the tape decks and play along. Tape hiss, LOUD tape hiss was the unfortunate by-product that ruined many a valiant effort. Eventually, I got tired of the music, frustrated with my lack of technical ability, and stopped playing.

A couple of years later, I started doing some painting. Deconstructive, primitive, almost feral abstracts on large pieces of Masonite, created late at night, after work, in my basement. Fueled by beer, tequila, and some reefer, these were great stress releases. I did have a show at a local gallery run by a local artist, Ed Meneely, via NYC. The re-

ception was the event in Lehighton. My sister-inlaw was also part of the show. Her work consisted of small, delicate, photo-realistic drawings of her sisters and college apartment. They contrasted wonderfully with each other. Some nice comments in the ledger for both of us. Soon, the diner required too much time and attention, and I stopped everything except the beer and tequila.

Finding your way back to art was a long road, but now your art is alive and full of meaning and focus. Tell me how your life was then and how it is different now.

RN: Things were easygoing for me for the first five or six years at the diner. However, working in a family-run diner required a level of dedication that working in the regular world did not. At my previous job, I still worked a lot of hours. I negotiated a sizable raise and worked a lot of overtime, which was fine. But learning to be the person responsible, whether I was there or not, took some

BLOWN OUT ENGINE

OUR FIRST CAR

BACK UP GIRL OF THE YEAR, 2019

getting used to. The critical difference was that the diner was mine, well, would be eventually, so the level of dedication was greater. Of course, I needed some people to make that point known to me, the young punk I was. Printing will always be my job, whereas the diner is our legacy. Unfortunately, I can’t work, and since COVID, people have yet to want to work, especially cooking.

There was some immense guilt there, and my poor wife was dealing with it without me. I was depressed, although the break felt good, and I felt like I had outlived my usefulness.Boom! Now, suddenly, I have a purpose ….My Art. It’s interesting to note that my wife is Greek. On New Year’s Eve, they have a traditional bread divided amongst the house, business, and Virgin Mary, chronologically down to the pets. Inside the loaf is a dime wrapped in foil, and the recipient has good luck for the year. Well, guess who got the dime this past year? I saw it as an opportunity and got this far in a year.

Does this also go for your love of automobiles?

Do you see the cars you are fond of as artistic sculptures?

RN: I’ve loved cars for as long as I can remember, but that’s not to say I’m a motor-head in the usual sense. I hate it and, therefore, won’t work on mine. Pumping gas is about as greasy as this monkey gets. But the cars themselves, especially in the ‘50s and ‘60s, tailfins are the best, and I think they should be brought back, screw wind resistance. And nice shiny chrome that reflects like a mirror. These are sculptures! Sculptures you can drive. Even better were the European sports cars of the same era. Low and sleek with sexy contour lines, my appreciation for Jags, Ferraris, and Porsches came along in my early twenties. By this time I was driving (I got a late start), I knew I could quickly grow to love the luxuriousness of a leather interior and appreciate the adrenaline rush of driving fast (but in control) on a winding country road. Perhaps the automobile as we know it is

on its way out, so dig them while we got them.

But drive responsibly, kids!

I see these cars are often side by side with sexy, alluring women. How do women figure into it?

RN: Well, it’s been that way all along. Since the beginning, every car show has always featured a pretty girl to present the pretty car. Every advertisement for anything automotive has always featured a fashion model and car. You might notice no models in the junkyard or traffic images, strictly showing cars and dragsters, which brings us to the girls in my auto art. Back Up Girls help the race team with the staging process. After the race car does what they call a burnout; to soften the rubber and lay a small layer of rubber on the strip surface, the Back Up Girls guide the driver as he backs up over the rubber for maximum traction. Many girls can tear down and rebuild an engine while wearing 5-inch heels!

Continued on next page...

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 17

MACIE’S NOSE (GO ON AND GIVE IT A BOOP)

FROM GHOST SERIES, “WHEN WE ALL GET TOGETHER FOR THE HOLIDAYS”

DIGITAL ART BY RICHARD NELSON

ALIENS FROM PLANET X DEMAND THAT EARTH SURRENDERS

18 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

DIGITAL ARTIST AND MUSICIAN RICHARD NELSON

BACON GREASE IN LILLIPUT

The Ghost series artwork is one of my favorites. Are you spiritual, and how does it fit in with your digital drawings?

RN: I’m a very spiritual person. I believe in Gods and Jesus but when I feel the need for a spiritual uplift, I go outside. Other than that, religion is not something I like to discuss because, besides politics, there is nothing more polarizing in society. I believe in God, and I think that he knows it.

The Ghost series started out as a joke. Like my Dad, I have little phrases that I like to use at the right opportunity for a quick laugh. “Coach told me I’d have flashbacks.” was the phrase, and the image is opening my eyes and finding a room full of weirdos looking at me. I did a couple of drawings, and I liked them. I wanted to incorporate what was happening in the room with what was on the television. Most of the images are from an old art film called Begotten, a disturbing retelling of the Birth of Christ. I only like to use characters in my drawings if it’s a cartoon or I’m drawing someone specific. The image isn’t about the people; they’re just there. My daughter, Annie, has a touch of Shine. Stephen King fans will know what I mean. She is prone to seeing shadow people, especially if the house is allegedly haunted. I believe her. The body and the soul are separate entities, along for the ride. And, of course, she has seen them at home. The picture that started everything in this category is a piece

called When We Gather Together for Christmas.

In this picture, Annie sits in front of our television, opening Christmas presents. At the same time, a model on the TV looks over her shoulder approvingly. The Ghost/Shadows are Annie’s friends.

Can you explain your process in creating a digital drawing?

RN: I rarely go into a piece with any kind of plan.

Portraits, of course, I do have a plan where I choose people who interest me. Film producers, actors, authors, favorite artists, and musicians are the usual categories. Punk is the usual inspiration.

If I notice somebody’s birthday or someone who interests me dies, I draw them. Sometimes, I will choose a theme and stretch it over five drawings.

Hitchcock leading ladies, favorite authors, and so on. Always in groups of five. The number is arbitrary but consistent. Start roughly, then finish it up with the details. The beauty of the digital medium is the ease of fixing mistakes.

How are you promoting your digital drawings these days?

RN: My main outlet is Facebook. It’s easy, and it reaches a lot of people. My numbers are increasing. Slowly but increasingly. So, I know I’m being seen. Besides that, I’ve been working on a portfolio that I can put up for sale. I plan to send some out to galleries in the area. As I said, this is all new

to me, so I’m learning as I do. Unfortunately, COPD makes pavement pounding exhausting. But I love a challenge.

Losing digital drawings can be problematic for artists. What measures are you taking to protect your work?

RN: It is a problem; I’ve lost more than I care to relate. I’ve increased my memory capacity since it became full to the max. I don’t have anything backed up on a hard drive. Technology scares me, so I’m at the mercy of The Powers That Be. I have a bad tendency to accidentally erase drawings while working on them. A “cancel” button is next to my thumb when I hold the pad while working.

Erasing a drawing you’ve been working on for a few hours is a very Zen-like experience. I have a very Kafka-esque existence.

Do you have any dreams that you remember and then translate them into drawings?

RN: That’s a juicy question, and I wish I had a juicy answer for you, but my dream recall could be better. I dream a lot; I know that. Mostly, I remember the location or I recognize faces, but that only happens sometimes. I frequently experience brief bouts of Deja vu as I go about my daily business that vaguely suggest something I may have missed. I also feel like I’m in somebody else’s inContinued on next page...

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 19

THE LATE GREAT SHANE MACGOWAN

dependent movie. That’s just me!

As a child, did you feel your parents were supportive of your love for drawing?

RN: My mom would be amazed because I would draw each member in a crowd. My Dad was never very supportive; he would get angry if I spent too much time drawing and doubted my ability to play guitar. So, really, there was not much support at all.

And what about now? Do you feel more support coming from family?

RN: I try to not subject them to my self-indulgence too often. Still, the difference is that they look at my stuff now and show genuine appreciation for it. As a lifelong classic clown, it’s unique to be taken seriously. It’s still new. I like it!

Music is a big part of your life; Tell us about your early days playing guitar.

RN: Music was always important in our house.

When I was very young, television was still a relatively new technology. We all saw the stuff you hear about from the mid to late ‘50s into the early ‘60s. There were a few options. Initially, we had only two or three channels. Two from Philly and one from NYC. Everyone my age can remember Ernie Kovacs, a pioneer in video effects, one of which was a man going down the drain with the bath water. Gave me nightmares well into my 20 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

RICHARD NELSON

‘20s. We also had an excellent console stereo.

Sound of the Theater, Tube amp, not solid state, and a receiver added to it. For the time being, it was a great system.

Mom liked jazz and opera, Dad liked Mitch Miller and Sing Along With Mitch, and Burl Ives sang “Buttons and Bows”. How we suffered. Mom had good taste. The point was that there was a ton of music around me. I asked for an electric guitar for Christmas and got a cool as shit Framus arch top.

Sadly, I was not impressed then; I sure wish I still had it. Guitar lessons were dull, practicing was torture, and lessons only lasted a year. Next year, I got a no-name Japanese SG copy. Later, I got a practice amp, and I played guitar. I tried to figure out songs on my own. Except for those triplets, the first two Black Sabbath albums were easy to learn.

I accumulated another amp. A National(!) 2x6 inch piggyback. I still have that one. I later acquired this outrageous cabinet for my wall of sound. It looked like a planter tub on end on a sixinch tall platform. Two dead 12-inch speakers and this huge wide-range horn about three inches tall and 36 inches across, and it was loud. We would gather in my friend Bob’s basement. Me and my Japanese SG, a Treble Booster pedal that was obnoxious as shit, Bob’s pretty nice drum kit, and this kid Terry who was a friend of Bob’s from St Jerome’s Middle School, where they played bass through something. We didn’t always get around

much; sometimes, Terry would take the fuse out of his amp and go. He usually left when the town juvenile delinquent would show up. In retrospect, it’s too bad I wasn’t allowed to hang out with him.

He probably liked us because we were nuts. We would start with “Are You Ready” by Grand Funk. Play most of that, stop. Start playing “I’m Eighteen” because that was a great song, and my Dad was terrified of Alice Cooper. We would get to the big finish, do a feedback jam that went on forever. We’d ride our bikes, and do stupid kid stuff. I’m sure Ricky would have fit in great.

Sometimes, he would bring his own kick drum and play a double kick drum. Something was missed there. That was that until college and the formation of The Chairs.

How do you create your digital music?

RN: In terms of methodology, it’s a lot like painting. My love of music far exceeds my ability to create it. I’ve always said that. But I can’t usually keep it together enough to play eight notes. Once I have something that doesn’t stink, it’s copy/paste. Copy/ paste. Irony! Don’t you love it?

You mentioned that your music group, The Chairs, will collaborate again. Exciting, yes?

RN: The Chairs came to be in our college townhouse at Briarwood Townhouses, State College.

Pa. You do the math. Two were art students; one Continued on next page...

DIGITAL ARTIST AND MUSICIAN RICHARD NELSON

THINKIN’ ‘BOUT THE DUDE

COLOSSAL

WILDWOOD 2020

SELFIE, RICK NELSON

THE GREATEST!

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 21

DINNER TIME

PULLED PORK

CAT FISH PO’ BOY

Digital Art by RICHARD NELSON

22 • JANUARY 2024

THE ARTFUL MIND

BLACK AND WHITE SHAKE, BURGER & ONION RINGS

DIGITAL ARTIST AND MUSICIAN RICHARD NELSON

WILDWOOD #2

guy studied hospitality, and Chris wanted to do social work. Brian was a friend of mine, though we became adversaries because of a mutual friend. A girl. Just a friend from school. Chris, my wife now, and I were still together but on hiatus, as she was out there, I went to Hazleton the first year. We both embarrassed ourselves a couple times, then got back together when I moved to State College. Anyhow, I digress. A beer run, a joint on the way, no problem about music, Zappa?

Check! We became The Chairs. Zappa came up to visit, and being the musician he was, he brought a guitar, and, shit, it’s college, a groovy little Ampeg (which we inadvertently destroyed in my living room a few years later on). So I still had my Jap SG and my National, so we jammed. I could play scales; I knew enough chords for 95% of what we were listening to. Our buddy Ed (RIP Brother) was a punky art kid from Conshohocken who played bass. After college, we always ended up back at home or not far away.

My brother-in-law Greg (RIP, brother) lived in a geodesic dome above Beaver Meadows on one side and a ten-foot walk to the rock overlook, like the ones you used to hike up to get high and watch the sunset on the other side. Lots of The Chair’s finest jams here. After a while, we had our own language. Mostly, it was purely improvised the

whole time. When it was time for music, we would stop, and Brian could play. And he could play all night. Actual friend of Doc Watson. I would sometimes join him as comic relief. Always the goof! And that is the point of the reunion. This kind of stuff keeps me guessing, if you follow my drift.

I mean, how fortuitous! This time, I’m serious. I know and understand my handicaps. No discernible sense of rhythm, and I can’t read. I understand some principles, but I need help executing them. What I can do is use production techniques.

This one friend of mine always called me Eno. I am trying to understand why. But I’m going to be working in that capacity. A great bonus of the Garage Band app is the “forgiving’ feature. I know there is a term for it, but if your rhythm is off, it fixes it up to a point. You have to be close. But I can record in layers, so if I take eight different percussion inputs with each, I will have a different sound as diverse as you can imagine. You play sustain on the gong.

It’s going to be experimental til we get used to working together. Been a few decades. But I like to create projects for myself. I was king of the allnighters in college; sleep is a waste unless you can remember your dreams.

Whenever you mention your restaurant, The Beacon 443 Diner, that belongs to you and your family, I feel hungry. What traditional dishes do you enjoy making?

RN: Yes! The diner! I don’t cook anymore, except for Pastitso, which I make for our family get-togethers. The best way to get some is to come to Alex’s house for the holiday. If there is a diner near you and a Greek salad is on the menu, chances are you’re on your way. I make an excellent Pastitso and Mousaka. Both dishes are similar to lasagna in that they are layered. Pastitso is meat (50/50 lamb and beef) in a tomato ragout, seasoned with nutmeg, allspice, clove, ginger and cinnamon. Penne pasta, I toss with Greek olive oil, raw egg, and feta in layers and then top with a feta and egg cheese custard. Baked to golden brown, of course. Mousaka has the same meat and custard but replaces the pasta with a layer of fried potato and grilled eggplant. Spinach pies, Gyros, of course. I also made individual Baklava cheesecakes. That’s all in the past now. I still miss it, but not as much.

What memories do you and your wife share from the early days?

RN: Chris and I recently celebrated our 50th year together. Continued on next page...

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 23

BING CROSBY AND DANNY KAYE IN WHITE CHRISTMAS

Digital Art by RICHARD NELSON Only married for 44 years, but we got married on the sixth anniversary of what we had always celebrated as our “Going Steady” anniversary. We were always friends, and we had the same friends.

It was like marrying my cousin, which is totally creepy. Forgive me, but you get what I mean. Serendipitous. Living outside Philly in the early eighties gave us a great ringside seat for what was happening with punk and its offshoots until it became hard rock. WXPN had a different format in those days. The only place you could hear King Crimson, Steve Reich’s “Then It Began to Rain”, and “Soft Machine” was all in one (usually) fortyfive-minute set. The best times were when we would party and listen to WXPN on the radio. The world was a different place before the internet. I miss it.

What do you want to share as you re-awaken with new digital art and music-making ideas?

RN: Two years ago, I was sure I would be dead by now. Spiritually, it was a definite tonic for the troops. I have had esteem issues. I don’t blame my

24 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

Dad because I know guys that pissed me off the way I pissed my Dad off. I get it. But it took me a long time to build confidence enough to believe in myself. Everything after this is icing. I hope that didn’t sound snarky. I feel blessed. I’m looking forward to moving on with the digital art portfolio project and The Chairs music project.

Can you describe a typical day as a high school student who loved art and music?

RN: Well, golly, that was a long time ago. I was a typical kid. I watched horror movies on TV on Saturday afternoon. Eventually, my mom would chase me out of the house. Sometimes, I would sit in my room and listen to my records, nothing interesting.

What did you look like during the Hippie era?

RN: Well, I was poor, so I was pretty skinny.

Ramen, peanut butter, and Green Star brand margarine. Got a haircut once or twice a year. Beard sometimes. I used to grow a beard in the summer.

Drove my father-in-law nuts. Long hair and avi-

BALANCE

ator glasses. All of us. We looked like Jerry Garcia Lennon Thomas-Chong. Lost it all when we hit the diner. Or vice versa.

What was the most practical but exciting thing you’ve done so far?

RN: What I’m involved in, trying to establish myself as an artist, is the most exciting and practical thing I’ve done. Running a diner can be exciting initially, but the nonsense that goes along with it overshadows that. So, I guess the loss of the nonsense is exciting and practical.

What are your thoughts about the contemporary art and music culture scene?

RN: Everything old is new again. Live music is being overrun with tribute bands. Some bands are okay: Dark Star plays the Grateful Dead but has made the sound their own; other than that? Meh. I like FB because it is the most immediate connection to what’s going on in the art world. I don’t read very much, I don’t have time to, I’m usually too busy doing this stuff. Petr Valek does some

DIGITAL ARTIST AND MUSICIAN RICHARD NELSON

ELSA LANCHESTER AND BORIS KARLOFF DOING THE MONSTER MASH

BING CROSBY AND DANNY KAYE IN WHITE CHRISTMAS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALEX CHILTON

downright frightening AI stuff. I know nothing about the medium or how it’s done, but I’ve watched enough horror movies; it scares me. Who can forget the two AI computers on opposite sides of the world being shut down quickly because they had started to talk to each other in their own language? Scary stuff.

Do you believe society is on the verge of significant change?

RN: Most definitely. The world today is very frightening and isn’t getting any better. The weather is changing, and the Middle East is erupting again. The cost of living is skyrocketing, and the work ethic is strongly declining. The government has all but come right out and admit there are aliens among us. We are becoming the very science fiction stories I read as a child. Each day is a new adventure; I can’t wait for tomorrow!

Whom do you follow among existing artists, and what inspires you about them?

RN: Early on, I was attracted to anything that

seemed avante-garde. Pollock, Rauschenberg, and abstract expressionism, in general, intrigued me.

It was like the music I was listening to. It made me think, what does this mean? What is going on here? My Dad liked to find things like “Masterpieces painted by elephants” and show them to me. That was his commentary on Modern Art. Jasper Johns is another favorite. Brian Eno, the musician, also greatly influenced my art and music. The best advice I ever heard was something he said once: “Don’t let education get in the way of creativity.” I embrace that. Art school could have been a better time for me. I had no direction, I didn’t understand art, I didn’t understand myself, and that simple statement made it okay.

Give us a few lyrics that you go by for mantra’s sake.

RN: I do have a couple of personal credos: The first one is my main one, “Honor necessity.” I got this phrase from guitarist Robert Fripp, a follower of the philosopher George Gurdjieff, who taught that we exist in a state of “waking sleep.” Still,

through meditation and lifestyle changes, we can awaken. Works for me. It was a handy mantra on those long days when your night shift cook forgets to wake up, and you’re stuck doing a double.

My own outlook is: Life is short.Time is precious.

Fate is random and frequently cruel. Most of your daily aggravations are nothing more than somebody else’s bullshit. Don’t waste precious time bothering over somebody else’s bullshit.

Think that does it.

nojrevned@hotmail.com FACEBOOK: Look for Richard on FB— he goes by Rick Nelson & this image...

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 25

LINDA MASON MAKE-UP ARTIST | ENTREPRENEUR | VISUAL ARTIST When doing a portrait, I work somewhat like a make-up artist, laying down a faint skin color to capture the essence and a beginning color story. Whenever I get too comfortable, I try to shake things up and do things differently.

I need to do that at the moment. —Linda Mason Interview by Harryet Candee Harryet Candee: Linda, you have devoted your life to the fast-paced world of make-up artistry and fashion, building a groundbreaking career fueled by your passion for color, design, and couture. Now, you find yourself living in the peaceful countryside in the Berkshires. But has this change of pace slowed your pace, or are you still notoriously ready and able to take on more exciting projects?

Linda Mason: On arriving here, I fell in love with the old school building in Housatonic. I first tried to persuade the Town of Great Barrington to allow me to make a body art museum there. At the beginning of 2022, I broke my ankle and was forced to slow down. I also didn’t have a car, but now I have one. I have picked up the pace again and am ready to finish off the projects I have underway and attack new challenges. My environment has changed, but I haven’t.

Have you had many significant brainstorm ideas since living in the Berkshires?

LM: Brainstorming is one of my all-time favorite 26 •JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

Photography by Bobby Miller and Courtesy of the Artist

activities. I have had an amusing idea recently, but I will not mention it so as not to jinx it. I'll move on it and see if I can get the other people I want to be involved as excited about it as I am.

Your beautiful, labyrinth-like Berkshire home in Housatonic is filled with art on the walls by your choice and discretion. What in particular of those artworks did you hang because they connect to the concept of ‘now and then’?

LM: Five paintings of my daughter Daisy at different periods of her life and some of the great animals she painted as a child were a must. She inspired me to do children’s portraits. I wanted so much to capture her personality; a portrait is so different from a photograph, as it is timeless. In my bedroom, I have hung pieces dating back to the 60s that I have purchased or been given that are dear to me. I use the rest of the house as a gallery, hanging different periods of my art in each room. There is the blue room, which is my earlier work, and the green room, which suits my religious series, another smaller guest room with

small portraits. The living room and office are a mix of the past and present, showing some of my favorite pieces that have yet to sell.

Along with many other projects you mentioned working on at the moment, you are also amidst an ongoing artwork series based on an Asian theme. Tell us more about this, please.

LM: It’s a funny story; the period of the lockdowns was an eye-opener for me. Things just did not seem to be right. I started to do a lot of research and discovered some videos of very interesting and enlightening people from the UK, France, and the US on Facebook. Little by little, these people were censored and disappeared; by 2022, they were all gone, and my Facebook video feed was flooded with the most fabulous Chinese historical dramas. I became addicted and madly in love with all the leading men. First, the costumes, hair, and makeup fascinated me, and then I was drawn in by the acting, intrigue, and romance. The actors and actresses are so good that the same ones appear repeatedly, many almost un-

BLENDER OF THE PAST PRESENT AND FUTURE, DREAM FOLLOWER, FREEDOM FIGHTER. ARTIST.

“Le Petit Prince” Acrylic an canvas 60”x36”, 1990. In the living room

recognizable. During the long winter nights when it was too cold to go into my studio, I painted watercolors of the leading men, and now I have moved on to a series of much larger paintings in my studio. I need to find out where this is taking me.

There is a buzz about the plan for a Retrospective Art Exhibit of your work back in your hometown. Tell us about this project, Linda.

LM: The Museum of my hometown of Sunderland in the northeast of England had already seen my Body Art Museum proposal. They suggested that I do a project for their existing Museum. I have a great studio and much more space here in MA, so I took out all my materials and realized I had plenty to do a very exciting personal Retrospective blending of Art and Makeup. The show will be a series of eight installations from the 50s until today and will take place in October, November, and December of 2024.

Let’s paint a picture of what it was like grow-

“Daisy Mason” Acrylic on canvas 16”x18”, 1990 . In the bedroom

ing up in Sunderland, England, and can we make a comparison to Sunderland and the Berkshires?

LM: I grew up on the outskirts of what was at the time an Industrial town; coal mining and shipbuilding were the staples. It was always damp and misty, just like when I first moved here and like today! I only visited two houses in the area in the summer of 2021 and fell madly in love with this one before even exploring the neighborhood. I returned to explore with my Grandson one Sunday and couldn’t believe my luck. The pretty houses, the old factory buildings, and the people (when I could find them as there weren’t many out on Sunday afternoon). We strayed into Pleasant and Main, which was closed as it was after 3 pm, but the proprietor, Craig, spoilt us with lemonade and a delicious chocolate cake and allowed us to stay in the garden as long as we wished.

Do you recall the excitement and anticipation you felt as a young artist, overflowing with ideas and eager to explore your creative poten-

tial? What caused that mischievous smile to spread across your face as you waited for the starting signal to embark on your artistic journey, even if you weren’t fully aware of your potential then?

LM: Until the age of 28, my passion was men. I loved doing makeup but had yet to learn that there were so many creative possibilities working with it or what a Freelance Make-up artist was. A woman from the cosmetic company, Isabelle Lancray, explained the work to me and asked me to do the makeup for her photo shoot. When I discovered I could make a living doing make-up for photo shoots and fashion shows, I jumped in and never looked back. Always experimenting with makeup allowed me never to get bored and to move effortlessly into expressing myself with painting.

Linda, how did you prioritize your actions with all that energy you had?

LM: I’m pretty lazy. I can sit around daydreaming Continued on next page...

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 27

LINDA MASON MAKE-UP ARTIST | ENTREPRENEUR | VISUAL ARTIST

The Museum logo

“Fang Feng Bei” Acrylic on canvas, 60”x 36”. 2023

for hours on end, but time disappears once I get started on something I can’t stop. I like to have deadlines, as this forces me to prioritize. Fixing dates for shows in the gallery/workshop I had for 15 years in Soho, New York, or the other shows I have done in Europe and here, even at a month’s notice, I can pull something big together. I find that I perform at my best when working under pressure. Otherwise, I waste a lot of time going back and forth and questioning myself.

As you continued to venture deeper into developing a career in the make-up and fashion industry, you moved to Paris and worked for Helena Rubinstein and Lancôme. Tell us about some of your experiences.

LM: I trained with Lancôme in the 60s and worked for them in Beirut, which I loved. After moving to Paris in 1970, I had to start again. Lancôme wanted me to travel for them, and I wanted to stay put and make a home. So, I modeled for five years. It was interesting as I worked mainly as a fitting model with talented designers in 28 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

“Haute Couture” and “Pret a Porter.” I was not a financially successful model and would have starved if it were not for the fact that I went on lots of dates to great restaurants. Because of my love of makeup, some evenings, I would teach makeup classes at “Elle Club,” where I was first introduced to makeup artistry. When I started doing makeup as a freelance artist, my work took off quickly. I spent every moment of the day and most nights working and developing my portfolio to gain a reputation. Helena Rubinstein was expanding and wanted to build a name in the fashion Industry, so they offered me a contract where I trained their trainers and worked on photo shoots for them. They sponsored me when I did the designer collections.

Please tell us what was going on in your life before you moved to Paris?

LM: I had worked in my parent’s shops since 11 years old, and was very proud that I had saved money to travel. I liked being independent and chose to train as a nanny, a job that would allow

me to travel. Still, I also liked to party, and the first family I worked for did not appreciate me going out and having a life other than looking after their children, so I changed course.

Regarding your groundbreaking work in make-up and fashion, you created this world where models apply paint on themselves as they walk down the fashion runway. What is this concept about? There is a certain leeway of a before and after. Can you reveal that to us as well?

LM: Each fashion designer is different. Some have a definite idea of the make-up they wanted on the model, as did Thierry Mugler; others didn’t. However, the clothes dictated, so the more the designer’s personality was reflected in their collection, the easier it was to create something special for them. Even when I did a thick stripe across the face as I did for the French designer France Andrevie in 1979-80, I would not overwhelm the clothes. The collection consisted of large-shouldered suits with gigantic hoods, such as white

Make-up case preserved from the 1970’s. 1979 “Fusion” Mixed media, paper, acrylic and resin on wood, 18”x 24”, 2013. In the office

clown-like faces with thick stripes and beautiful lips. When you are working with so many different talents at a fast pace, everything flows, and you want to keep on creating.

When I moved to the US, I worked for designers here, and Willi Smith of Willi Wear booked me for their shows, which were always so much fun.

Already in Paris, I had been doing messy makeup and splotches of color or throwing powder on the faces of the girls, inspired by the deconstruction that designers were doing with their designs. The models of the 80s were quite different from those of the 70s, with stronger personalities and looks, so instead of transforming them for a show of such fabulous, easy-to-wear clothes as Willi’s, I decided to do something more interactive and fun.

I applied multiple grease colors to their hands and fingers and instructed them to apply it blindly to their faces as they walked down the runway.

What kinds of paint were used? Years ago, toxicity was not a big issue, but nowadays, there is much to consider in the materials used.

LM: For France Andrevie’s show with the stripe across the face, I had a problem. At the time, Kryolan Aquacolor existed for giving a paint-like texture and heaviness to the makeup for more theatrical looks, but I couldn’t find many bright colors, so I thought, “Well, children’s powder paints must be pretty inoffensive; otherwise, they wouldn’t let primary school children use them.”

So, I purchased boxes of beautifully colored powder paints and mixed the colors in with the body paints to brighten them. Little did I know that the violet pigment stains the skin and is difficult to remove. Even though I used an oil and a very thick white Shiseido traditional makeup base under the color, those models with the violet stripe were stuck with it for the day. Fortunately for me, but unfortunately for the model, the show was the first of the day. So, the models could not spend lambasting me as they had to get to their next show, where it became next make-up artist’s problem.

You must have had many great and innovative mentors. Who might some of them be, and

where did you encounter them?

LM: My life has mainly been full of teachers, inspirers, and motivators as opposed to mentors, and I have encountered these in all walks of life. Mr. Crahay, the designer at Lanvin when I worked “En Cabine” as a model, was a great teacher. Just being in his presence while he was designing, I learned so much and the essential life lessons he taught me. In Paris, when I worked as a nanny in my teens, I frequently passed a basement window where a cabinet maker worked. He would always talk to me and encourage me to read the French newspapers and listen to the French radio, and he had given me a list of great writers to read in French. I could go on and on about all the incredible people I have learned from, but that would fill a book. The French photographer Sammy Georges was possibly a mentor, as he helped me build my portfolio. His photography was so good.

He jump-started my career. But, as a mentor, my mother stands out at the top. She taught me that nothing is impossible if we want it enough, and I Continued on next page...

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 29

LINDA MASON MAKE-UP ARTIST | ENTREPRENEUR | VISUAL ARTIST

A view of a Makeup case from the 70s with the boxes of

“Alice in Mouvement” Photo of Alice. 2019

powder paints and Shiseido traditional make-up. 1979

am so grateful to have always had her support and encouragement. She never criticized me and introduced me to ballet, music, the arts, fashion, and design. She transformed our house and, in doing so, transformed the street. I remember vividly when she did this; I must have been about six or seven years old (this was the 50s, remember), standing next to this imposing builder and architect, telling her that what she wanted couldn’t be done, which meant they had never done it before.

She did not back down, and it ended up getting done.

Have you ever felt that you aced it, walked the walk, and talked the talk straight into a dazzling event or party?

LM: Life is that dazzling event, so I ace it every day.

While in the learning stages of make-up artistry, were you left with highly demanding designers, leaving you often discouraged but shining in the long run? Was there something you had to learn over and over again?

LM: In life, one is always in a learning stage. I’ve always liked challenges, so working for demand30 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

ing people works out in the long run. I am the most demanding person, although I can mess up.

When working in Paris, I would do several jobs in a day and often work late into the night. One evening, I was working on a cover shoot for L’Officiel, a prominent French magazine, and could not get comfortable with the make-up. I was discouraged and sorry for the model, as I removed and reapplied the make-up three or four times.

The model never complained. However, we did get a photo that made the cover. A few months after that shoot, I was doing a very large commercial job, and who walked in? That same model.

My first reaction was, Oh no, I pulled myself together, put everything into it, and did one of my best jobs ever in record time.

In art, sometimes it feels like one is swimming in a void, and it’s good to have something or someone to butt up against. It is good to get criticism, which can hurt, but it also makes you think and become stronger, enabling you to know yourself and defend your ideas better. You know what you can do to please, but with art, as with make-up, the pleasure pushes things further, and sometimes it’s too far for others.

Tell us how film and photography played a role in your life as an artist.

LM: I started to do photography as I was frustrated with how certain photographers portrayed the make-up industry. Doing photography made me more appreciative of the photographer and his view. I realized it was essential to contribute to his story and continue experimenting. Later in my career in the US, it became a copyright problem.

The make-up artist has no rights to the photo, so I decided to do all the photography for my artwork or request a dual copyright with the photographer if I did any creative work with them where I felt there would be a 50/50 contribution.

Capturing someone in movement allows you to push them to relax so that you can capture more of their personality, which is really what I am interested in. I like to work in daylight in ways that can make things more complicated, but it always energizes me, as the light constantly changes.

Through “seeing my model in a different light,” I can bring out a side that is not always visible. One of my favorite trips as a make-up artist was to Portugal with the talented Japanese photographer Kazumi Kurigami and the Art Director Eiko Ishioka.

We were working on a picture story like a silent

The astrological Moodkits. The open compacts from left to right Pisces,Capricorn, Aquarius, Sagittarius. 1987

Photo Credit: Bruno Gaget

movie. I loved it. After that, I wanted to direct movies. When I first came to New York, I took a summer film course at NYU. Still, I started painting and doing make-up for some great photographers, such as Steven Meisel and Deborah Turbeville, so my life took a different direction.

The movies I have made have been short ones incorporating my Freestyle make-up, my favorite being “First Base,” which you can find on Vimeo.

I found this beautiful quote by you, Linda.

“My mother once gave me some advice: “If you move into a new home, don’t do everything immediately. Take your time because you get the feel of the place.”...How do you apply what your mom taught you at this point?

LM: It’s the same thing as if you have a new hairstyle. You must get the feel of that hairstyle, play with your clothes and make-up, and take your time. It goes for every aspect of your life.” I am constantly transforming my home, moving things around, and spending time on myself. Sometimes, I feel a little guilty about this, but I enjoy it and do it for others. I want people to enjoy my home and feel comfortable. Wearing make-up brightens my life so that it will brighten others, too. My

mother loved to have people in our home. She used daylight in the most beautiful ways, with glass bricks and mirrors, and never would go out without make-up. I’ve worked with some truly great hairstylists who have a vision, so sometimes women (here I speak for myself, too) are a little shocked by the cut or color they have been given, but really, they have been given a gift of a different way to see themselves. It will always grow out. So, they should embrace it. Models who have been given dramatic cuts and embraced their new image have become very successful.

enhance the personality attributes of each sign. In the 80s, when I decided to do a make-up line, I called my company Linda Mason Elements. I used the elements to tell the different color stories.

Earth, Fire, Water, and Air. The first product in Barney’s and Henri Bendel in NYC was a set of twelve different Astrological Moodkits. Each has color collections to accentuate the personality of the sign. A woman could use her kit to accentuate her astrological personality or use any of the kits to transform herself into a Sexy Scorpio, Passionate Capricorn, Melancholic Pisces, etc.

Tell us about your Astrology line of make-up, Linda. What is your connection to astrology?

LM: In the ‘70s, I created a proposal for an art book called “The Art of Make-up.” I became very impatient with the time it took to get a publisher, so I decided to do a book to see if I could get one.

Linda Goodman’s Sun Sign book was all the rage, and we used to talk a lot about the different astrological signs on photo shoots. Make-up, for me, is about transformation, but it has also always been an expression of one’s personality. I decided to change course with the book and use it to study more about Astrology and search out the colors to

Of all the places you have traveled to live and visit, what would you say was the most riveting of all, and why?

LM: Riveting is an odd word. There are riveting moments at certain times of day in a particular light, such as Ephesus in Turkey at sunset and the light on certain trees in Great Barrington on a sunny winter afternoon.

Living in Lebanon was life-changing for me. I love Lebanon and the Lebanese people. They taught me the meaning of generosity and hospitality. As with Lebanon, Zambia in the 70s transContinued on next page...

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 31

“Down The Rabbit Hole” The late Dr Zelenko, Klaus Schwab, JP Sears Acrylic on canvas, 36”x 60”. 2021

“Wanted” showing the deteriation of the posters pasted in “Jesus” Mixed media on canvas, 48”x 60”. 2018

formed my vision of many aspects of life. I grew up thinking that animals were bad because they attacked and ate other animals, and to see them in the wild, where everything they did was right and natural. Dirty children laughing and playing, having a very happy time in the mud next to huts.

Once I might have seen dirt and poverty, in Zambia and I saw fun and joy and good-natured people free from aggressivity who let insulting behavior roll of their backs.

There is a spiritual side to you that I have seen in your art. There’s a series you have created based on Jesus. Can you tell us about this, please?

LM: This project, “He Walks Among Us Still,” is ongoing and, for the moment, a series of mixed media pieces, some large and some small, but I would like the show to be an interactive installation where people can question Christ and the disciples. God, Christ, and prayer are important, so I considered doing a religious series. Still, the catalyst was a group of men I used to have coffee with every morning in the city for three or four years before the lockdown. I had always looked upon the biblical figures as distant from us, yet 32 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

with this group of men; I realized that they are ever-present with their different personalities and frequent disputes. Each of these men fits the different characters of a disciple. Just before Easter of 2019, I made “Wanted” posters of the art work of Jesus with a couple of friends my age and posted them around Soho and the Village around 2:30 am. It was hilarious sneaking around with my partners in crime, all in our 70s. I then documented the deterioration of the posters over six months and was amazed to see how long some of them lasted.

There are signs that you may be receptive to conspiracy theories. What are your thoughts on this? How does it show up in your paintings?

LM: I carry it as a badge of honor as most of the conspiracies have turned out to be true, and I have discovered the most brilliantly brave people. In March of 2020, when asked to stay home, I immediately thought, “There is something fishy here.” Everything we were asked to do went against what I had learned as a child. My parent’s first baby died of pneumonia, and they were told to keep all the windows closed tight. When I was

Lower Manhattan, Easter. 2019

born and also caught pneumonia, teachings had changed, and they threw open the windows for me to get fresh air; how could wearing masks be good for you if it cut off your air supply, and hiding your face in New York City allowed for any atrocity. We had just been educated on how those hand sanitizers were bad for you as they killed off the good bacteria, and here they were back in full swing, people able to get rid of their obsolete, unmovable stock.

I asked myself what Jesus would do; I walked into an empty New York crying at what I was faced with the destruction of businesses and livelihoods.

It baffled me to see so many people my age so afraid of death and willing to give up on seeing their friends and family. What is life for if it is not to be shared with the people you love? One day, one hour, one minute is precious. The snitches at their windows looking down on the streets and wishing those who had dared to go outside would catch a disease and drop dead; what a miserable life they must have been living. I was stunned at the fact that people I thought were friends wouldn’t even have a discussion with me and rejected me ultimately. I did so much research and looked Continued on next page...

LINDA MASON MAKE UP ARTIST | ENTREPRENEUR | VISUAL ARTIST

“Censored” Right to left:- David Icke, The Late Rachid Buttar, Brian Rose followed by the distracting BLM. Acrylic on canvas, 72” x 60”, 2020

“Del Bigtree” of The Highwire painting, Acrylic on canvas, 2023

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 33

LINDA MASON MAKE-UP ARTIST | ENTREPRENEUR | VISUAL ARTIST

“Mermaid” acrylic on canvas, 36”x 48”, 1992.

In the blue Room

Mini Masterpiece “All Lips” and some lipsticks in front of a mixed media on wood with a resin finish, 12”x18”

upon it as my University degree; I had never listened to so many doctors, scientists, journalists, and politicians in my whole life. I was lucky to have friends in other parts of the world and discovered a network of support and different sources of information. Before the lockdowns, I had been doing a lot of mixed media art work, and my printer for the images I needed was closed, so I reverted to painting to document the people I was discovering. I have several large pieces but have not yet finished the series. I am currently working on African Presidents, such as President Magafuli of Tanzania, who opposed the lockdowns and died under mysterious circumstances, and quite a few other fascinating people, such as David E Martin and Dr Robert Malone.

In what ways do you now benefit from using AI and computer platforms that never existed before?

LM: I don’t use AI. I have experimented with AI 34 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

out of curiosity and find the speed with which it comes up with things amazing. I have asked it about myself; it certainly knows how to flatter.

The other day, I asked it to come up with an answer, and it wrote a very eloquent piece. However, on reflection, I realized this differed from how I would do it. Maybe my way was wrong, but it was my way. Will one day it be able to do this? Blending all the information it receives from so many different sources makes it more difficult to develop something original.

What is the physical or mental thing you would want to capture, and how would you do that?

LM: Freedom is primordial to my existence, so capturing anything physical or mental contradicts that. Physically, I can't even stand to see a fish swimming around a fish bowl, no matter how big or interesting that bowl has been made to look, and I love to let my mind wander freely. Thinking more at length about this, I would like to capture

a whole segment of people who believe in mandatory vaccines and force them to listen to the stories of people who have lost loved ones or been injured by the vaccines. The world would benefit.

In contemporary society, we can observe the presence of various cultures, each with its own distinct subcultures. This diversity has arisen as a result of life experiences. Is there any relationship between our present way of life and the way we react to past experiences?

LM: It is good to be ever-evolving, pushing through barriers of learned experiences and going outside of our comfort zone so that we can advance in our understanding. However, being sure of one's cultural customs is comforting, like a familiar embrace, and we want to keep them and share them with others.

Portrait of a baby boy, Acrylic on canvas. 2004

Photograph by Bobby Miller

Do your beliefs have any profound effect on your family? They must love you for all you believe in every way possible. Tell us about your family.

LM: My family is varied, not through color or race but through personality. My beliefs must affect my daughter and grandson, as their beliefs have enormously affected me. Fortunately, we agree on the most important things and enjoy each other’s company and friends. At the beginning of the lockdown, we would meet in the park, and my daughter did worry about me until I told her that nothing would stop me from spending time with her and my grandson. I sometimes embarrassed her by handing out fliers about the folly of masks on children in the children’s parks once they reopened.

Aside from being beautiful inside and out, what does Linda have to say when glancing in the mirror?

LM: Thank you, Harryet, that is very lovely of you. Great light and failing eyesight do the trick, so glancing in the mirror, I dance around and see a teenager. I have an extra strong magnifier for my make-up, but I have studied so many faces it could be anyone I’m looking at to brighten their face and help them express themselves and feel good.

as Heidi did. I admire people who are quick to the mark as I am rather slow, so I console myself with the Hare and Tortoise story, “Slow and steady wins the race.” The Emperor’s New Clothes have given me the courage to speak my mind despite what the majority may think.

D Of all the favorite childhood stories you were told, which stays in your memory, and why?

LM: Heidi, The Hare and the Tortoise, The Emperor’s New Clothes, and all of Hans Christian Andersen’s stories as he wrote them. Looking back on my life, Heidi made a profound impression; I didn’t realize how much until recently. Her bedroom is in the barn loft, looking out down the mountain. In Paris and New York, my bedroom was in a loft, looking down from large windows.

My house is now on a hill, although my bedroom is no longer in a loft space. I look out from up high

LINDA@LINDAMASON.COM FB: Linda Mason Art

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 35

MARY ANN YARMOSKY

Time Flies Mixed media, 12” x 12” Time passed over her, but left its shadow behind.

Two Faced Acrylic on canvas, 12” x 16” A woman has two faces: one she shows to the world, another she keeps to herself.

“Each person I meet intrigues me with their different stories and life experiences. My paintings are a dance of spontaneity and intention based on observation.

With each stroke of my brush, I try to create a feeling, a story, a challenge to the imagination of the viewer.”

— Mary Ann Yarmosky

The Mask Acrylic on canvas, 12” x 16” She understood how dangerous a mask could be…

She might become what she pretended to be.

maryannyarmoskyart.com | maryannyarmoskyart.shop 36 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

ELIZABETH CASSIDY

ARTIST, WRITER, CREATOR OF THE ODD SISTERS, PEACE LOVER

CARLOS CAICEDO

ABSTRACT AND CONCEPTUAL PHOTOGRAPHY Paper and pencil have been my lifetime companions, not simply tools. In a digital age, these humble objects remain stubbornly useful, and our connection goes back to memory. It’s a physical relationship. A yellow pencil in a child’s fist moving on blue-lined paper. The weight of a book and the sound of a page as it turns, the curve it makes, and how its shadow moves. These are pleasures that haptics can’t mimic.

My photos are a journey of discovery with these old friends to see if we can still surprise each other. It’s looking at them with a new eye. It’s discovering how shape color and light can take us into a new and refreshing world. It’s a game where what we see comes from us, not what’s there. It’s a game of imagination. It’s an invitation to play and to see what you never imagined.

Carlos Caicedo Eclipse Mill, Loft 306, North Adams.

UNVEILING NO. 2 ACRYLIC ON CANVAS 18” X 24”

RUBY AVER STREET ZEN

Growing up on the Southside of Chicago in the 60s was a history rich and troubled time. As a youth, playing in the streets demanded grit.

Teaching Tai chi for the last 30 years requires a Zen state of mind. My paintings come from this quiet place that exhibit the rich grit of my youth .

Movement, shape and color dominate, spontaneously combining raw as well as delicate impulses.

Ruby Aver Housatonic Studio open by appointment: 413-854-7007, rdaver2@gmail.com, Instagram: rdaver2

I am an award-winning mixed media artist who believes that the world is imperfect.

I am imperfect. My art is imperfect.

But my messages are clear and precise.

I am a lover of colors and movement, but I so appreciate the crispness of black & white and stillness. Whether I paint in watercolors or acrylics or draw in ink and colored pencils, my personal success comes from drawing people into my art and my world.

I would like to thank the fearless Odd Sisters because they keep showing up and asking me to let them make an entrance and tell their stories.

And who am I to stop them?

“Even if you are a little odd, you’ll always be a sister.”

Elizabeth Cassidy www.elizabethcassidystudioworks.com elizabethcassidyart@gmail.com

SERIOUS HOT OR ICED CHOCOLATE GOURMET GELATO AND TREATS HAND CRAFTED IN THE BERKSHIRES OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Escape into Chocolate

™

55 PITTSFIELD/LENOX ROAD ROUTE 7, LENOX MA 413-637-9820

chocolatesprings.com THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 37

FOOTPRINTS IN THE SNOW, 15” X 30”

DONALD LONGO

As a young boy, I grew up in Lee, Ma. I loved exploring the natural beauty of the Berkshires in all four seasons. From the serenity of the woods to the pastures, lakes and hills, I would sit there, admire the beauty and ponder my day.

These paintings reflect those moments in time where I enjoyed those stunning vistas. I painted some in a realistic style and others in a semi-abstract style to give the viewer the feelings I experienced with the colors, the textures and the viewpoint.

Donald Longo Facebook – Don Longo, Instagram – don longo Email - dljoseph55@yahoo.com www.donlongoart.com

KATE KNAPP, CITY LANDSCAPE, NYC ASSEMBLAGE OF FOUND OBJECTS. CRUSADE, ACRYLIC ON CANVAS 60”X48”

MARK MELLINGER

My two careers, art and psychoanalysis, concern what can be said and what remains mute. In painting, collage and constructions of wood and iron I’m interested in the eloquence of the materials.

Avoiding a recognizable style in favor of experimentation, I explore the possibilities of the media. Our world and culture are dissolving. Art can create precious islands of meaning and joy.

Mark will be showing his work at Hotel on North, February 2 - March 31, 2024, located at 297 North St., Pittsfield, MA 01201 Mark V. Mellinger, Ph.D.914-260-7413, 75 S Church St, Pittsfield MA, instagram.com/mellinger3301

“Painting is just another way of keeping a diary.”—Pablo Picasso

Ruby Aver

Orchestra Seat for Degas, Acrylic on canvas, 25” x 30”

rdaver2@gmail.com Instagram: rdaver2.

Housatonic Studio open by appointment: 413-854-7007 38 •JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

FRONT ST. GALLERY Pastels, oils, acrylics, and watercolors…abstract and representational…..landscapes, still lifes and portraits….a unique variety of painting techniques and styles….you will be transported to another world and see things in a way you never have before…. join us and experience something different.

Painting classes continue on Monday and Wednesday mornings 10-1:30 pm at the studio and Thursday mornings out in the field. These classes are open to all...come to one or come again if it works for you. All levels and materials are welcome. Personal critiques are available.

Classes at Front Street are for those wishing to learn, those who want to be involved in the pure enjoyment of art, and those with some experience.

Front Street, Housatonic, MA. Gallery open by appointment or chance anytime. 413-528-9546 at home or 413-429-7141 (cell) www.kateknappartist.com

Gallery BLUE SNOW, ACRYLIC, 16” X 20”

SALLY TISKA RICE Born and raised in the captivating Berkshires, Sally Tiska Rice possesses artistic prowess that breathes life into her canvases. As a versatile multi-media artist, Sally seamlessly employs a tapestry of techniques, working in acrylic, watercolors, oil paints, pastels, collages containing botanicals, and mixed media elements. Her creative spirit draws inspiration from the idyllic surroundings of her rural hometown, where she resides with her husband, Mark, and cherished pets.

Sally’s artistic process is a dance of spontaneity and intention. With each brush stroke, she composes artwork that reflects her unique perspective.

Beyond her creations, Sally also welcomes commissioned projects, turning heartfelt visions into tangible realities. Whether it’s capturing the essence of individuals, beloved pets, cherished homes, or sacred churches, she pours her soul into each personalized masterpiece.

Sally’s talent has garnered recognition both nationally and internationally. Her career includes a remarkable 25-year tenure at Crane Co., where she lent her hand-painted finesse to crafting exquisite stationery. Sally is a member of the Clock Tower Artists of Pittsfield, MA, the Guild of Berkshire Artists, the Berkshire Art Association, and the Becket Arts Center.

Follow on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.

Visit Sally’s website to view her work and sign up for the email list to receive updated information on art adventures. https://sallytiskarice.com Sally’s work is on the gallery walls of the Clock Tower, Open Monday-Friday, 9:00-5:00 pm for self-guided tours. Call for a studio appointment at 413-446-8469. Clock Tower Business Center, 75 South Church Street, 3rd Floor, Pittsfield, MA

THE GUILD OF BERKSHIRE ARTISTS - presents -

“Musings on Nature” In the Anna and Frank Henry Leonhardt Galleries at the Berkshire Botanical Garden

February 9 - February 25, 2024 Opening Reception: February 9, 5-7pm Gallery hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11-4pm 5 West Stockbridge Road Stockbridge, Massachusetts 01262 Member artists were challenged to interpret their concept of what nature means to them. Is it colors, textures, the amazing beauty of life in nature?

Is it the complexity as well as the simple beauty of spring tulips, fall leaves and sunsets? The artists will tell us what moves them in nature!

Art on Main Gallery

ARTFULMIND@YAHOO.COM

38 Main Street, West Stockbridge, MA 01266 For more information about the exhibit and current Art on Main Gallery Shows and hours go to our website www.berkshireartists.org

What are you waiting for!

Time to show your art! ...413. 645. 4114 THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 39

Erika Larskaya

Untitled Mixed media on ramboard 40” x 36”

"As an abstract artist, I search for ways to represent the invisible, subtle, and unexpressed.

I am driven to lay out fleeting and intangible experiences on physical surfaces". —Erika Larskaya

Erika Larskaya Studio at 79 Main St. Torrington, CT www.erikalarskaya.art 40 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 41

Carolyn M. Abrams

FRONT STREET GALLERY

KATE KNAPP, CITY LANDSCAPES, NYC. Ice Dell, Oils, Cold wax medium

Atmospheric and Inspirational Art www.carolynabrams.com MEMBER GUILD OF BERKSHIRE ARTISTS

Look for me at various venues in the Berkshires this winter!

Come take a class with me at Berkshire South and Lenox Community Centers

Sally Tiska Rice

Painting classes on Monday and Wednesday mornings 10-1pm at the studio in Housatonic and Thursday mornings 10am - 1pm out in the field.

Also available for private critiques. Open to all.

Please come paint with us!

Gallery hours: Open by chance and by appointment anytime 413. 274. 6607 (gallery) 413. 429. 7141 (cell) 413. 528. 9546 (home) www.kateknappartist.com

Front Street, Housatonic, MA

ELEANOR LORD

Landscape, Pastel

BERKSHIRE ROLLING HILLS ART CLOCK TOWER ARTISTS Studio 302, 3rd floor 75 South Church St, Pittsfield, MA (413)-446-8469 www.sallytiskarice.com sallytiskarice@gmail.com

42 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

Please visit—

www.eleanorlord.com To see more of the Artist’s Landscapes, Still-life, Portraiture and more.

ASTROLOGY FOR CREATORS Rising Sign Analysis for January: Aries There is a lot of passionate energy and light building towards the end of the month that focuses on your career, public image, and/or legacy. Pay attention to friends, networks, and goals around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th will be highlighting your sector of creativity, children, joy and maybe romance.

Astrology for Creators January 2024 When a Mermaid-Goat Climbs a Mountain (Western Tropical Astrology. Time Zone EST/EDT) Dee Musgrave Overview: New Year’s Day should be interesting given that Mercury stations to turn direct which is going to shift communications. Mercury will be in its post-retrograde shadow period until the night of January 20th – 21st so, you may be untangling the miscommunications until then. The best use of this energy is for introspection with your creative practice.

As Mars enters Capricorn on the 4th you may find your passions turning towards focusing on how you could build more structure and be more practical in your creative practice. This energy feels like “New Year’s Resolution” energy that you could plant seeds for on the New Moon in Capricorn on the 11th. On this day the Moon will also Trine Uranus in Taurus which makes for a sudden “eureka” moment in terms of what structure is needed.

The date I feel is most significant for January 2024 is the 20th as Pluto moves into Aquarius. This is part of a back-and-forth motion of this planet between Capricorn and Aquarius that will settle on November 19th, 2024, when it moves into Aquarius for 20 years!

Since 2008, Pluto has been in Capricorn which represents power (both good and bad) sourced with institutions and government. This will begin to shift over 20 years as Pluto moves into Aquarius moving power (also good and bad) toward humanitarian efforts, technology, visionaries, and outsiders. This is extremely relevant for creators as the focus will likely start moving towards arts embodying Aquarius themes. There will be both positives and negatives to this which we are already seeing with the debates around AI-generated artworks. I advise being true to who you are with your art form however, if you are comfortable finding a way to shift to fit into an Aquarius niche it might assist you in the years to come.

The Leo Full Moon will occur on the 25th of January while Squaring Jupiter in Taurus. It might be highlighting a structure that needs to be built to reach abundance. This could be shining light on something that needs our focus and care for our future creativity.

This could connect with Uranus starting to station to turn Direct in Taurus the day after on the 26th which could make it easier to see an innovative way to structure your life for abundance.

Overall, the positive energy of this month embodies what Capricorn is all about as it is symbolized by a mermaid-goat climbing up a mountain despite the obvious challenges. It is done one step at a time like building a castle brick by brick. This month invites you to structure your creative practice in this way too.

Taurus Pay attention to your career and public image around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th could bring closure to something deeply emotional. It could be an insight into your home, family, or nurturing parent. Throughout the month there will be strong energy around your beliefs, higher learning and/or long-distance travel.

Gemini I advise enjoying the passionate energy that builds through the month focussing on things you share.

This could be sharing in terms of intimacy, sex, taxes, shared resources, or shared spiritual experiences. Pay attention to how your beliefs start to change around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. You may also be starting a new area of study or planning pilgrimages for the next 20 years. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th could bring closure to something around communication, ways of thinking, your siblings, or local neighborhoods.

Cancer Notice how the month starts to build a passionate focus on relationships and partnerships, especially towards the latter half. Pay attention to anything you share such as intimacy, sex, taxes, income, or spiritual experience on January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. It could also be related to the occult. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th will be highlighting what you possess, money and your self-worth.

Leo There is a lot of energy building towards the end of the month that focuses on your daily routines such as health, pets, job, and coworkers. Pay attention to relationships, partnerships and known enemies around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th will be highlighting your sense of self, identity, and/or your body.

Virgo I advise enjoying the passionate energy that builds through the month that focuses on your creativity, fun and joy. This could have to do with romance or children if you have any. Pay attention to how anything to do with your daily routine shifts around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. This could be anything from your health, work, coworkers, pets, daily tasks or how you are of service to others. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th could bring closure to something around the unseen parts of your life such as mental health, the subconscious, retreats in solitude or something spiritual.

Libra There is a lot of passionate energy and light building towards the end of the month that focuses on your

deeper emotions. It could be related to your home, family, or nurturing parent. Pay attention to your creativity, joy, romance and/or children if you have any around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th will be highlighting your friends, networks, and future goals.

Scorpio Pay close attention to how you communicate, think, and learn this month. Be cautious of the harshness of words to yourself and others. Pay attention to your deep emotions, family, your home and nurturing parent around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th will highlight your career and public image.

Sagittarius The month will shine light and bring passion to your possessions, what you own and money. It could also manifest as a focus on self-worth. Pay attention to changes happening in the way you communicate and think around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th will be highlighting your beliefs, higher learning and/or long-distance travel.

Capricorn This is your month! Enjoy the light that shines on you that is combined with passion and beauty towards the end of the month. Around the 23rd you may find that beautiful items come easily to you or that you have a captivating energy. Pay attention to any changes around money, possessions, or your self-worth around January 20th as this is the area of life where Pluto is beginning a transformation. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th will highlight an area of life where you share. This could be anything from money, intimacy, shared spiritual experiences and more.

Aquarius This is a big month for you. You may start to feel Pluto coming back into your sign early on but, it will officially move as of January 20th. This is going to be a 20-year transformation having to do with your identity and body. The Full Moon in Leo on the 25th will highlight relationships and partnerships which may be in flux due to the changes you are undergoing. There is also likely going to be an increased focus over the month having to do with feeling a need for solitude, examining your mental health or something spiritual.

Pisces Take care of your mental health as we approach January 20th. Pluto is moving into the area of your life having to do with what is unseen. Pay attention to spirituality, the subconscious, solitude, and retreats.

The Full Moon on the 20th will bring closure to something in the area of your daily life such as healthcare habits, pets, coworkers, your job and the way you are of service to this world.

If you would like to offer feedback, please email me at: astro_dee@yahoo.com Please join the online discussion at: www.facebook.com/groups/astrologyforcreators/ Dee Musgrave is an artist, energy worker, hypnotist, and intuitive consultant.

You can contact her through her email and wesites: astrodee@yahoo.com / www.artisthehealer.com

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 43

elizabeth cassidy studio works

I Will Always Carry Your Burdens

Do you think She Is Talking About Us?

The Odd Sisters “Even if you are a little odd, you’ll always be a sister.”

If you would like to see yourself as a member of the Odd Family (everyone is welcomed) I will be happy to create a one‐of‐a‐kind illustration for you. Please contact me at: elizabethcassidyart@gmail.com For more information: www.elizabethcassidystudioworks.com/the‐odd‐sisters elizabeth cassidy Artist, Writer, Award Winning Creator of The Odd Sisters, Peace Lover 44 •JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

VIRGIN ISLANDS SEASCAPES

LONNY JARRETT FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY Berkshirescenicphotography.com 413-298-4221 |

Lonny@berkshirescenicphotography.com THE ARTFUL MIND JANUARY 2024 • 45

Only One 24” x 24”

BRUCE LAIRD

Clock Tower Artists Business Center • Studio #307 75 South Church Street, Pittsfield, MA 46 JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

The Prodigal Dog PART 4

Valeria Previously in this chronicle, we have been introduced to Madge, the diminutive ballerina. She was three and a quarter feet tall, quite rotund, and yet she was adroit in all her movements, one might even say elegant. We can call this phenomenon an ‘absurd juxtaposition,’ that combinations of contradicting attributes, so essential to the carnival performer. But her daughter, Valeria, whose star power outshone her mother’s, was yet more strangely absurd. When her mother called her name, she would pull back the maroon curtain and present herself to the world, all seven feet of her, thin as an aspen sapling.

In the first instant, as the unsuspecting audience took in her form, there was a universal feeling of doubt, doubt bordering on complete disbelief. They felt they were being made fools of, even though it was a carnival where deception is expected. The spectators at first were simply annoyed at being fed such a ridiculous idea. But then something transformative happened, Valeria bowed to the audience and smiled. She smiled a woeful smile, full of an acceptance of regret. How else can I explain her smile, except with those words. It was the smile of a child who has stopped crying after a sound spanking, the smile of a small child determined to repeat the transgression, a smile of the inward acceptance of oneself, of self love.

But that was not the end of it. It is necessary here to actually describe the physical anatomy of her smile. The arrangement of her teeth was far from perfect, she had one tooth that might be said to be shy. Either it had not come in completely, or perhaps it had been chipped slightly. This little imperfection was made more prominent because when she smiled the lip above that tooth rose slightly higher, as if to call attention to the fault. The above clumsy description, the best I can manage, could never convey the wonderful charm of her childlike smile, and so I will end this description with its most important feature.

Her smile had ‘goodness,’ such that having seen it one felt an odd pleasure that lasted the rest of the day.

But this smile was simply the introduction to her character, and her identity, because having presented herself to the audience, her mother then offered to the audience the very same smile, complete with the smaller tooth, adorned with the same cameo of the lip, slightly higher above the same tooth.

In that moment one could see that the two women shared the same history, the same genes, and the same ancestry. Valeria was indeed the little person’s daughter.

Valeria, like her mother, was clairvoyant, and was

shy to the point of complete denial about her skills.

Her ability, she knew, did not really belong to her, but belonged to a voice that spoke to her in her ear sometimes unexpectedly. She has no control over the voice, and the only control she exercised was that of a censor, because she sometimes simply refused to utter the various comments and observations she heard.

And don’t for a moment consider that she was simply personifying her own private thoughts. It was obvious to her that the voice knew a great deal that she could never know, words she had never heard, and remembered times, places and events she could never have experienced.

This voice in her head was like a close friend and a companion, and their relationship was not always harmonious, they even argued sometimes.

Valeria did not converse with this voice if there was any possibility someone might hear the conversation. She didn't want to be thought of as ‘touched,’ or possessed, even though she knew she was. Valeria was proud of her abilities, and yet at the same time ashamed of her abilities. Proud, because she knew in her heart that she was a superior being, unlike anyone else, and certainly connected to other beings of great importance in history going back to Pythia.

At the same time she longed to be just another ordinary person, not forever severed from everyone, even her mother and her three sisters, all of whom were just 39 inch tall circus performers. She especially wished she was not so ridiculously tall and thin, so that, even from a distance, strangers would stare at her and make comments under their breath, imagining that she did not know what they were saying about her.

But although she suffered a profound alienation, her suffering was at least ameliorated by her connection to her best friend, a being that, although invisible, talked to her like an ordinary person. The voice was not in her head, but outside somewhere, and so real that she was always surprised that others did not hear it, although dogs, cats, and even other small animals, she could see for herself, responded to it. They responded with confused caution, because although animals could hear the voice, there was nothing to be seen.

One day Valeria and her voice were walking on their path in the woods. They almost always walked along the same path. The path was bordered left and right with tall thin trees, trees very similar in form and shape to Valeria herself. Along the path ran a stream. In the deep blue-green of the stream floated here and there, yellow and red leaves, because it was a warm day at the end of September. The sun, shining through the foliage of the trees, dappled the ground with patches of light, which shifted and shimmered with the occasional breeze. In short, it was one of those days, and one of those places that is as beautiful as nature is capable of painting, when she wants to adorn some event in a cloak of majesty and render it unforgettable.

It was on that day, while walking in the woods that Valeria noticed something odd about her companion’s voice, she noticed that sometimes the voice fell behind, and she had to wait for it to catch up to her. When this happened, the voice would come up to her seemingly out of breath, and on this particular day, she asked, “What is your name kind sir, and how old are you. “My name, my dear, is Constantine Verbatim, and I am at your service.”

“Am I to call you Constantine?” she asked.

“No, please call me Constant, which is short for

Constantine.”

“And your age Mr. Constant, what is that?”

“Well, that is hard to say exactly, but right now I am about 79, and so I will soon be 80.”

“And so, is that why you always fall behind when we go for a walk, and I have to wait for you to catch up to me?”

“Yes, I am afraid so my dear.”

“And are you some sort of eternal being that will never die, since you have no form? Or are you like any other person, who might die right now, or perhaps at some later date?”

“My my, such a difficult question, and like everyone, I wish I knew the answer to that question. Everyone will tell you that they know for a fact that life ends, and has to end, but I don’t think anyone really believes it. People live their lives right out to the last second, never thinking they will ever really die. And even those stories one hears of some old person who had carefully made out their will, is content, has their close friends and relatives down to the third generation sitting by the bedside, contentedly waiting for their transformation, I say to that ‘hogwash,’ it is all play acting, and they don’t believe any of it. Nobody ever believes the absolute truth, even as they are having their noses rubbed in it” “Constant,” she exclaimed with a certain animation, standing still, folding her arms, and talking directly to the place she imagined he must be standing.

“Constant I say, must you constantly express yourself in such a didactic, and autocratic way? Isn’t it obvious that people believe, and doubt, both together and all at once, and you can’t say anything for certain?”

Valeria could not see Constant as she finished speaking, but in the sound of his answer she could clearly detect a certain embarrassment, as he said, “Well, forgive me won’t you as I am not accustomed to being argued with and certainly you are correct.”

“But you have not answered my question.”

“I will answer it another time, but now answer this question for me.” Then the old man stopped walking and Valeria, sensing that he was no longer walking stopped walking also, and she listened to this peculiar question.

“Here we are standing under a cloud, and in the distance you will notice a road crossing our view, there in the distance. Beyond that road, the fields are bathed in a warm light, but where we stand we are in a chilly shade. What I want to ask you is, does the sun know that it has illuminated the fields in the distance, and do the clouds know that they have cast us into the shade. And is the landscape we admire from this place, created for us as a symbol of our present, and future lives, now cloudy and uncertain, and in the distance, splendid and beautiful to anticipate.”

“No!” exclaimed Valeria, “the sun, to my thinking knows nothing, and the clouds know even less, and the entire idea is just poetic nonsense.”

“You know Valeria, I happen to like poetry very much, and so might you.” her invisible companion replied.

The foregoing might give you some idea of what Valeria was like, and it is not surprising that the dog Otis would seek out her company and her conversation before running away from the carnival forever.

—-RICHARD BRITELL, JANUARY 2024

THE ARTFUL MIND JANUAY 2024R • 47

LONNY JARRETT BERKSHIRE SCENIC PHOTOGRAPHY

JANE WITH SUNDAY MORNING TV

JANE GENNARO Jane Gennaro lives in Claverack and New York. Solo exhibitions include the Fashion Institute of Technology, Klapper Center for Fine Arts at Adelphi University, and the World Monuments Fund Gallery. Locally, she’s exhibited at Time & Space Ltd. in Hudson. Gennaro’s solo plays have been produced by the American Place Theatre, the Culture Project’s Impact Festival, and the Toyota Comedy Festival. Her work has been reviewed in the New York Times and featured in New York Magazine. She has voiced audiobooks, video games, documentaries and hundreds of commercials. Gennaro’s satirical commentaries aired on NPR’s All Things Considered. Locally, she’s exhibited at TSL and The Claverack Library.

Jane Gennaro janegennaro.com jgennaro@mac.com

Perfect gifts to show friendship and love!

Find charms that delight and fascinate. Hand‐made beaded jewelry, plus there’s so much more to see on Laura’s online site!

My initial memory of awakening to the creative impulse was hearing the first chord of the Beatles, Hard Day’s Night, when I was six years old. I knew something big was happening at that moment, and I had to get on board! I began studying at the Guitar Workshop, the first guitar school in America. I’ve performed music most of my life and play jazz fusion with my band Redshift.

My interest in photography blossomed as an electron-microscopist publishing neuro- and molecular-biological research out of UMASS/Amherst and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx in my early 20s.

As a lifelong meditator, martial artist, musician, and photographer, everything I engage with comes from the same unified intention toward engendering the true, the good, and the beautiful. I endeavor to capture the light that seeps through everything in landscape and nature photography.

Lonny Jarrett Community: Nourishingdestiny.com Books: Spiritpathpress.com Art: Berkshirescenicphotography.com Teaching: Lonnyjarrett.com

COMMISSIONED WATERCOLOR BAILEY'S ISLAND, MAINE

MARGUERITE BRIDE COMMISSIONS

For the past few years my professional painting career has lead me to more commission work.

While I still paint and love doing house portraits, other scenes have become part of my portfolio… .retirement paintings including special buildings and people, scenes where a proposal happened (and he said YES), gorgeous sunsets on Bailey Island, landscape views from windows, lots of wedding venues, college paintings for new graduates…the list goes on. Each painting is special, personal and meaningful.

The process is easy. If you are local to the Berkshires, I will visit the home/site, take many photos and do a few sketches on site. If now I will work from your photos. Drawing is the next phase and where your input is valuable…what to include, what to leave out or move, season, time of day, pets in or out? So many fun things to consider when creating and personalizing your treasure and future heirloom.

Once the drawing is approved, I paint. The painting process will take about a week….most of the time is spent in the preparation phase before the painting begins.

Is this a surprise gift for someone? I love surprises and do it all the time! I can be very stealth at taking photos. Or are you nervous that the scene might not be exactly what the recipient wants? A gift certificate is perfect, then I will work directly with the recipient.

Be in touch and I will answer all your questions. And check out the “House Portrait” pages of my website….lots of information and details.

— Custom pieces welcome! —

Marguerite Bride – Home Studio in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Call 413-841-1659; margebridepaintings.com; margebride@aol.com; Facebook: Marguerite Bride Watercolors.

LoopeyLaLa’s

“Don’t think about making art, just get it done.

Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it.

While they are deciding, make even more art.”

– Andy Warhol

Please visit:

www.LoopeyLaLa.Etsy.com 48 • JANUARY 2024 THE ARTFUL MIND

Deborah H Carter Reflection Upcycled Wearable Art @deborah_h_carter @eric.korenman.photography Model/Hair/Make Up: @danipignatellicos Represented by the WIT Gallery Clock Tower Artists, Pittsfield MA