Visit me at my new "home"

“Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.” You’ve heard that one before, right? Turns out that Twyla Tharp quote is true: I’m running away to Graphite, but I’ll be home in time for dinner.

Graphite Arts Center, Edmonds, WA

From May to mid-July, I will be the artist-in-residence at this brand-new arts center in Edmonds, Washington. While I’m there, I’ll offer mentoring to artists just starting their careers. I’ll also create a piece that will be shown during the “Intersections” exhibit, a group show by artists (like me) with intersectional identities.

“We Are Sacred and Necessary” (detail), by Rue Maia Oliver

And a bonus for me: Graphite is within driving distance for me, so I literally will have all the comforts of home, in addition to studio time in an expansive space. Curious?

Come visit with me during the “Intersections” reception: it’s Saturday, May 7th at 7pm. Looking forward to talking art with you soon!

Develop an attitude of ingratitude

Ungrateful women don’t get enough credit. No one ever escaped slavery with an attitude of gratitude — not Harriet Tubman, not Sojourner Truth, and certainly not Ona Maria “Oney” Judge.

Two hundred twenty-five years ago, Oney had the nerve to liberate herself from the household of George Washington. Apparently ”the ingratitude of the girl — who was brought up & treated more like a child than a servant” was a bit offensive to the first president. It’s that kind of uppity-Negress thinking that deserves a series of collages.

Oh, but it gets better. George needs Oney recaptured quietly, to “deceive… the Public.” The henchman does catch up with her — but Oney won’t go unless George agrees to free her upon his death. Remember, Oney’s making this demand while the threat of re-enslavement hangs over her head.

It’s hilarious (225 years later) to read his outraged response: “it would neither be politic or just to reward unfaithfulness.” May we all aspire to such audacity. If you can’t be a good example — to other oppressed people — at least be a dire warning to your oppressor. Check back in with me for the final collage in the Oney Judge series.

Lisa Myers Bulmash, artist in action

You know you can find me on Facebook, but when’s the last time you saw me there on someone else’s feed?

I’m partnering with Blick Art Materials as a guest artist! This week, I showed viewers how to make a gel skin image transfer for use in a collage. Guest artists do a live technique demonstration on Thursdays at 4pm CST at the Blick Creative Community page. If you’d like to see me live the next time, just ask to join the group. In the meantime… enjoy!