On June 13th, 2015 I am looking forward to teaching a Prayer Book session. This is a private session, but I will be continuing to teach the Lotus Fold and Prayer Books throughout the year. Please contact me for more information or if you would like to book a private studio session.

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....")