I will be teaching a Lotus Fold Book Class June 15th 9:30-4:00  at the Center for Ecology-Based Economy (formerly Commons Art Collective- adjascent to the Fare Share Market, Main St. Norway)

we will embellish our papers using a variety of techniques, and then use our papers in the creation of our books. No experience necessary, all materials included. $80- for the day, send $40- to secure your spot. Sarah Shepley 213 Halls Pond Rd. South Paris, ME 04281

I have been printmaking with some friends this winter . Without the usual flora available to print with , I  am using other texture.

new work

A few sketches I have done this winter- They speak to an underlayer of experience  brought forward  through the creative process. I recently read Immortal Diamond by Richard Rohr and loved this passage:"Without new symbols, which are someitmes also words, unconscious meanings never break through to consciousness, and the invisible has no way of becoming visible...we do not experience our experiences".
I wrote recently: "my art acts as a "winch", pulling up the bucket of water from the well ".

Recent images ( June 2012) of new work. Monoprints using gold foils and transfer paper. I am doing a show with encaustic artist Anne Bernard at the Maclaughlin Gardens ( South Paris,Me.) during the month of August. The  Opening will be Friday  August 10th. I am planning to  exhibit a few pieces at the
"Peace through Service" art show and auction  held  August 17th at Deertrees theatre in Harrison , Me. I ran into Joyce Mastro from Hole  in the Wall studio and Gallery recently- She expressed interest in me bringing a few pieces to the gallery later in July.

New Designs of 2012 season.
Since Feb. of 2011, I have been monoprinting everyday using the Akua Inks. Many of the papers I am using to cover my books are handprinted designs (mostly) using natural forms placed  right on the plate. Vinca, Rhododendron, Ginkgo, Wild Ginger are to name a few of the flora - My husband owns Halls Pond Gardens ( http://www.hallspondgardens.blogspot.com/) so, I  am fortunate to have ample supply of plants from which to print with.

 I am moving  away fom commercial papers in  my bookmaking. With the use of monoprints, paste paper and  silkscreen , I have a lot  to choose from  of my own creations -and I reallly enjoy the process. Designer at heart. The books designs remain simple , most containing poetry inside.

A small book-The  paper is a mohawk superfine that has been monoprinted using Akua (soy based) inks. I have used vinca leaves in the design of this paper. Inside is a small book with the poem "Theives" by Mark Nepo ( ...."it's the insidious virtue to have everything in order before we live that is the greates thief....")

Sunday April 1st was the Book Arts Bazzar at the Wishcamper center in Portland. An event in celebration of book makers, artists etc. very fun and inspiring .I sold a few books and a lot of my decorative papers ( monoprinted, paste paper design, silkscreened).