Fire and Water ART! Showroom

Featured artist for January

2011-12-31T13:53:00.001-08:00

The featured artist for January is Kathleen Mooney, She is the coordinator of the gallery and a wonderful teacher as well as a remarkable artist. Kathleen has achieved Signature Status in both the International Society of Experimental Artist AND the National Watercolor Society. Come in and see her recent work!

Featured Artist for Nov + Dec- Virginia Wieringa

2011-11-20T11:03:00.000-08:00

Virginia Wieringa is the Featured Artist at Fire and Water ART! in Lowell for November and December. You can meet her there on December 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 11-4. Some of her work showing at the gallery is posted here.

Kathleen Mooney, NWS

2011-09-13T07:30:00.001-07:00

Kathleen Mooney has been awarded the honor of signature status in the National Watercolor Society, NWS. Mooney's artist signature will now include NWS. Her painting "Coordinates" has been accepted in the NWS 91st Anniversary Annual Exhibition 2011. On acceptance of "Coordinates" NWS invited Mooney to submit three additional paintings of for review by the Jury of Selection. Her paintings were judged to meet the standards of quality and consistency required by the Society and Mooney was invited to become a Signature Member.
To add to the excitement, "Coordinates" has been selected as one of 30 paintings from the 100 painting San Pedro, California exhibition to be awarded an NWS sponsored one year national tour to six locations in 5 states – a second location in California, 2 locations in Texas, 1 in Wyoming and 1 in Ohio.
"I am thrilled with achieving signature status in National Watercolor Society. To have "Coordinates" selected for the NWS national touring award from over 1,000 exhibition entries is a huge honor. The NWS Annual Exhibition is an important international event with the strongest water media artists from all over the world applying every year."
The NWS 91st Anniversary Annual Exhibition will be held October 22 through December 3, 2011 at the NWS Gallery in San Pedro, California with the opening reception on October 22, 2011. For more information see www.nationalwatercolorsociety.org
For more information about Kathleen Mooney, ISEA-NF, NWS and her art see www.kathleenmooney.com or on Facebook visit Kathleen Mooney Artist.

Karen Godfrey achieves ISEA signature status

2011-06-30T10:36:00.000-07:00

Fire ans Water artist Karen Godfrey achieved ISEA signature status this year by having her work accept in the International Society of Experimental Artists yearly show for the fourth time.

Lynn Anderson

2011-06-02T09:33:00.000-07:00

Lynn Anderson just brought in some wonderful watercolor paintings of orchids (the top two in this post) and took the exquisite abstractions of a daisy garden to the Lowell Area Arts Council for the Going Green exhibit.

ISEA show

2011-04-09T13:18:00.001-07:00

These are pieces by six Fire and Water artists that have been chosen to be in the International Society of Experimental Artist 2011 show in Washington state in June.

NEW at Fire and Water!

2011-03-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

After not being at F+W for two weeks, it's a delight to walk in and find new work and a newly rearranged space! Bob Gronevelt has a new cedar lined blanket chest and Kathleen Mooney has a new display of works on paper - ready for framing!!

Kathleen Mooney at the Muskegon Museum of Art

2011-03-15T09:53:00.000-07:00

Please join us Friday evening 3/18/11 at the Muskegon Museum of Art for a special FREE event "The ART of Sustainability" featuring my art and photography from the Yellow Dog River. I will present my NEW 15 minute movie "Yellow Dog" with my photographs of the Yellow Dog River and my paintings and collages inspired by the environmental threats and damages to this wilderness area in Michigan's UP (music by Thom Jayne). I am excited to have this opportunity to share my inspiration from this beautiful river and participate in this powerful educational event - I hope you can make it!
Beginning at 5:30 we will have a reception, followed at 6:00 with presentations, an artists' panel discussion at 6:00 and networking at 8:30. Three artists – Kathleen Mooney, Curtis Frillmann and Lee Ann Frame will share how art and the environment are merging - art activism, making art from found objects and recycled materials. There will be a panel discussion sure to reveal insight to the simple steps each of us can take to make a positive impact on our environment.
This event is part of "Sustainability: A West Michigan Journey" a month-long series of sustainability-based activities sponsored by the West Michigan Symphony and supported by a number of organizations in West Michigan. The artist panel is co-sponsored by the West Michigan Symphony and the Muskegon Museum of Art.
Art can make a difference! Kathleen Mooney, ISEA
More information -
Kathleen Mooney and her Yellow Dog series of art www.kathleenmooney.com
Yellow Dog information from Save The Wild UP on www.savethewildup.org
Muskegon Art Museum programs and directions www.MuskegonArtMuseum.org
"Sustainability a West Michigan Journey" www.WestMichiganSymphony.org
Please help spread the word and invite guests to this event!

Cortney Robson- acrylic paintings

2011-03-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

Fire and Water welcomes Cortney Robson and her dynamic acrylic paintings!

Bob Gronevelt wooden bowls, platters and tables

2011-03-10T09:18:00.000-08:00

Bob Gronevelt wooden bowls, platters and tables at Fire and Water. Bob has long been bringing in his lovely tables and cabinets, but the bowls and platters are new to us! They have rich textures and surfaces. Come and see for yourself!

Cindy Allen-

2011-03-10T09:10:00.001-08:00

Cindy Allen has her Waxed Irish Linen Basketry and loofah soaps at Fire and Water ART!

Kate Lewis ceramics

2011-02-11T06:12:00.000-08:00

We are delighted to welcome Kate Lewis, a young West Michigan potter to our Showroom! Her beautiful functional work is dishwasher and microwave safe and will add a bit of art to your everyday life!

Jan Johnson- featured artist for March

2011-02-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

Watercolorist - Janet Johnson

MAR. 1 TO MAR 31ST, 2011

11 TO 4 PM WED. - SAT. AND FRI. 11 TO 7 PM

FIRE AND WATER "ART" GALLERY

219 W. MAIN ST., LOWELL, MI 49331-1607

Janet Johnson is a watercolor artist. She has illustrated several children's books in the last few years. Her love of animals shines through in her work. Jan will be having an opening reception at the gallery March 3 from 5:30 to 7:00 pm. Please stop in and meet her. She would be happy to sign one of her books for you.

Marylu Dykstra- February featured artist.

2011-02-06T10:26:00.000-08:00

Mixed Media Artist - Marylu Dykstra

FEB. 1 TO FEB 28TH, 2011

11 TO 4 PM WED. - SAT. AND FRI. 11 TO 7 PM

FIRE AND WATER "ART" GALLERY

219 W. MAIN ST., LOWELL, MI 49331-1607

Marylu Dykstra has many new mixed media pieces available at the gallery. Her love of nature, water, and weather shows through with power in her work. On a camping trip this fall she started some of her pieces while watching a storm come in over Lake Michigan, definitely an inspiration. Please call the gallery to make an appointment with Marylu to discuss her work further.

Showroom phone: 616-890-1879

Fire and Water ART! Showroom

219 West Main, Lowell, MI 49331

www.fire-and-water-art.com

Whitney Lassini - beadwork

2011-01-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

Fire and Water welcomes bead artist Whitney Lassini. Her beads (as you can see) are spectacular! Come and see them in person. She's working on February 5. See more of her work here: www.WhitneyLassini.com
blog.WhitneyLassini.com
WhitneyLassini.etsy.com
www.flickr.com/WhitneyLassini

Patti Sevensma- Fire ansd Water January Artist of the Mont

2011-01-13T09:46:00.001-08:00

Patti Sevensma is showing some of her "Beautiful Children" series along with other portrait pieces for the month of January. She has been doing portrait work for a number of years mostly for her own enjoyment. Some of these pieces have been featured in various regional competitions. This is a rare opportunity for them to be shown together. Please call the gallery to make an appointment with Patti to discuss her work further. Showroom phone: 616-890-1879

WHEW!

2010-12-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

It's been an amazing Christmas season at Fire and Water. There are some beautiful gifts made by our artists underneath many trees this year! We'll be open on the 29th and on into the new year. Hope to see you soon.

Debra Smale workshop

2010-11-01T09:07:00.001-07:00

Mixed Media Artist – Debra Aalsburg Smale

December 4, 2PM to 4PM – Reservations by November 26th Contact Debra at: dasmale@comcast.net for further details

Workshop Outline:

Participants will experiment with focus on the idea of what attracted them to the subject they choose to paint. Focus will be on the approach of not painting specific things, but the idea the shapes, patterns, colors from an image they have selected might represent.

Focusing on the attraction of the idea, can help participant gain a deeper clarity of the images, shapes, colors as the piece evolves.

Participants over the age of 16 are welcome, at any level of experience.

Workshop is limited to 6 participants and will be very interactive.

No Cost

What to bring:

All supplies, in any medium the participant is comfortable with, including a prepared surface to work on, i.e., canvas, paper.

An image that has attracted them and would like to explore

Karen Godfrey featured in the GR Press

2010-10-04T05:29:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Ackerman-Haywood | The Grand Rapids PressCreative pursuit: Karen Godfrey is a Grand Rapids artist who uses art to empower others and heal herself. She created this mixed-media assemblage during her recovery from cancer at a time when she could only see out of one eye. Below is another one of her works.

Like many with artistic tendencies, Karen Godfrey pushed her passion for art aside when it came to selecting a career. Instead of going to art school, she earned a master’s degree in social work from Grand Valley State University and worked as a therapist helping her clients “create recovery” from cancer and other challenges. She did this work for five years before realizing she needed to start taking her own advice. “I was telling these people to make art every day,” she said. “I was encouraging them, but I wasn’t doing it myself.” So, she enrolled in an oil painting class and fell in love with the medium. Little by little, she started painting more and meeting with clients less.

In 2003, she took the plunge and opened Art Beat, an art gallery she owned and operated in Grand Rapids until 2008. She featured the work of other artists, taught art therapy workshops and built a community around artwork that told stories about healing and self-reflection.

Her gallery was unique because she didn’t send artists away if the perspective in one of their paintings was off. “What was most important to me is that it had some message,” she said.

Branching out

After five years operating the gallery, Godfrey was ready to make another change.

“I said I was opening the gallery to spend more time on my art, but then the gallery took over,” she said. “And I was spending time promoting other artists more than myself.”

In 2008, Godfrey closed her gallery and moved her art studio to her home, where she has been busy making mixed-media assemblages ever since. Godfrey said she has no regrets about closing her gallery, but misses the Eastown community. “I loved who I was connected with, but I knew I had to do this for myself,” she said. “When I closed the gallery it was my last step to becoming a full-time artist.”

Looking inward

Godfrey said she works in her studio nearly every day and is enjoying the “alone time” she has to create.

“It’s like I’ve given myself permission to be less outgoing and more introspective,” she said. “To do something that is just for myself is difficult.”

Godfrey’s art therapy skills came full circle last spring when she was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma before leaving on a six-week trip to exhibit her work at DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun in Tucson, Ariz. Her doctor cleared her to delay treatment, but Godfrey said she had no idea that doctors would have to remove 75 percent of her right lower eye lid when she returned home. Then, to give her skin graft time to heal, her right eye was sewn shut for five weeks.

During this time, Godfrey created two assemblages exploring vision and shadow themes.

“I had to ask myself, ‘What am I not seeing in my life?’” she said. “Little did I realize ... I wasn’t seeing the good in myself. ... I was not acknowledging that I am gifted.”

Committing to her artwork full time has started to pay off for Godfrey, whose assemblages have been accepted to several galleries, including the Cycling Salamander gallery, just south of Charlevoix.

Godfrey is one of many local artists participating in ArtPrize. Her entry called “Art and Transformation: Healing Traditions Around the World” is on display in the window at the West Michigan Center for Art and Technology on East Fulton Street until Oct. 10.

Her personal transformation into an artist is surprising to some who didn’t recognize her passion for art earlier in her life.

“I didn’t even get good grades in art,” Godfrey said, recalling her high school classes that put more emphasis on life-like drawing skills and less on developing creativity working in other styles and mediums.

But Godfrey felt that compulsion to create that transfixes many who don’t pursue art as a career. Every time she had breaks between college classes or work, she would create art projects.

While it may have saved her time if she had realized she was an artist in bloom back in high school, Godfrey wouldn’t change a thing.

“This all happened for a reason the way it did,” she said. “I’m very thankful for my life experiences.”

Karen Godfrey’s art

When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 4
Where: Trinity Lutheran Church, 2700 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids
What’s for sale: Godfrey’s assemblages and paintings, wood carvings, basketry, sculpture, pottery, and more work by other artists.
Where to find: Shop for Karen Godfrey’s art at Fire and Water Art Gallery, 219 W. Main St., Lowell.

Old World Santa

2010-09-25T13:57:00.000-07:00

Artist Nancy Wanha just brought in this old world Santa. It's amazing. It's completely handmade. She hand embroidered the quilt that is his cape. She molded the face. She painted the toys. The cape is trimmed in mink and lined with satin. This is one of a kind and totally hand made. Exquisite!

a fine collaboration

2010-09-23T11:55:00.000-07:00

A customer bought 3 of Virginia Wieringa's Leaf Layer collages and our custom Framer Deidre Wingelaar worked her magic to achieve just the look that the customer wanted. These collages will float at the surface of a very deep frame with no glass covering them. it's just what the customer wanted!

Leslie McGlynn-Stougaard

2010-09-17T12:26:00.000-07:00

Thursday, September 23 at Fire and Water!

Leslie Stougaard news

2010-09-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

Leslie Stougaard is hosting an art event in Lowell - here is the newspaper article to prove it!

http://wzzm13.com/news/story.aspx?storyid=129304

Also, she is having an Artist Reception on Sept 23 5-8pm

Welcome, Ginny Keegan!

2010-07-15T11:59:00.001-07:00

Meet our newest artist, Ginny Keegan! She does funky paintings on salvaged windows, beaded jewelry and mosaic garden stones. Stop by and see her work!!

Art with a summer flair

2010-07-14T08:17:00.001-07:00

These are two new paintings by Virginia Wieringa coming to Fire and Water ART! this week! Stop by and see them in real life! Too late! That was quick, the narrow one sold already!

ISEA

2010-06-02T05:06:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of the ISEA Symposium in Grand Rapids (the International Society of Experimental Artists). I'm excited to see the show. One by F+W artist Virginia Wieringa is the red one below and above it hangs a lovely work by F+W artist Marylu Dykstra.

The show of 65 art works done in open and experimental ways with new techniques and materials will be hanging at the Forest Hills Fine Art Center in Grand Rapids (600 Forest Hills Ave SE) from now until June 29- hours 8-5 Monday - Friday. The opening is Thursday June 3 from 6-7:30. There is an open house at Fire and Water tonight from 4:30-6 and the public is invited to both events.

ISEA

2010-05-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

The artists of Fire and Water ART! are getting excited about the Symposium for the International Society of Experimental Artists which will be held in Grand Rapids the first week in June! Seven of us are members and many of us will have work in the exhibit at the Forest Hills Fine Arts Center during the month of June. See more information on our website: http://www.iseaartexhibit.org/home

Lisa Wierenga Reception today! LACC

2010-04-24T06:28:00.001-07:00

Meet Lisa at an artist reception today from 5-7 p.m. The Chamber offices are on the river directly behind the Flat River Grill.

Girl's Night Out!

2010-04-18T10:00:00.001-07:00

Just a few of the visitors who decorated plastic 'hardhat's and made our gallery a destination!

Gourd artist Lisa Wierenga

2010-04-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Artist Lisa Wierenga will be the featured artist at the Lowell Chamber of Commerce gallery space from April 17 through June 11, 2010. Artwork will include pastel paintings and hard shell gourd art. Meet the artist at an artist reception April 24 from 5-7 p.m. The Chamber offices are on the river directly behind the Flat River Grill.

Joy, the troll

2010-03-24T07:50:00.000-07:00

In anticipation of the bridge construction on Main Street in Lowell, we greet Joy, the troll at Fire and Water ART!
Name: Joy

Age: 35,000 years old

Female

Personality: Artistic, Optimistic

Other – Colorful, messy, fun to be with, busy 24/7 making ART and at the same time making the world BEAUTIFUL

Hobbies – Joy enjoys painting, drawing, photography, kayaking, pottery, parties, food, wine, and ART. Joy delights in making lemonade from lemons!

Brief bio – Joy has been painting on walls from the days of cave art! She loves living at Fire and Water ART because here she has friends who love art as much as she does. Joy adores seeing and being around meaningful objects and beautiful paintings. Change and lovely colors make her heart glad. Joy thinks the Bridge Project is one of those “lemonade from lemons” opportunities – one more reason for people to learn about Lowell and all of the great things to discover here! She hopes everyone comes to see her – she loves visitors!

Nancy Wanha

2010-03-18T17:17:00.001-07:00

Nancy Wanha just joined our group and hung some stunning paintings. Come and see for yourself!

artspan sitefor Kathleen Mooney

2010-03-03T05:02:00.001-08:00

This is Kathleen's entry for the ISEA exhibit which will be in Grand Rapids in May. See more of Kathleens' work at this site

a new Kathleen Mooney project- Song of Amergin

2010-03-03T04:51:00.000-08:00

Handcarved blocks and handpulled prints for my book project based on the Song of Amergin - The Mystery - The oldest recognized poem of Ireland. Estimated completion date 2011.

Kathleen Mooney news

2010-02-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

Kathleen Mooney, ISEA announces her "Yellow Dog River" artwork series of paintings and photography has been selected for the Eastbrook Homes "Dreams & Design Home 2010" Spring Interior Design Event & Tour.

Lowell, February 25, 2010 – Kathleen Mooney today announced that her artwork series "Yellow Dog River" has been invited to be showcased in a phenomenal two-day event offering visitors the best in tips and trends in spring decorating & landscaping for their homes. Eastbrook Homes is co-hosting the event with the most recognized national home décor retailer and popular culinary destination. HINT from Kathleen – the initials are PB and WS. This event will take place in the Eastbrook Homes community of West Hamptons (on Fulton near I-96, Grand Rapids) at 216 Tuckahoe Court.

Thursday, March 11 – Talented culinary experts will host an informative demonstration to entertain guests on "Kitchen Essentials." Kathleen Mooney, ISEA will present her "Yellow Dog River" series of paintings and photography from the Yellow Dog River near Marquette, Michigan. Mooney will be available to answer questions about art creation and inspirations from nature. The culinary demonstration will begin at 6:30 p.m. The event is complementary, and will take place from 6-8 p.m.

Saturday, March 13 – A home décor demonstration titled "Spring Decorating Essentials" will take place at 2 & 3 p.m. Attendees will learn creative tips, from local experts that they can apply in their own homes. Kathleen Mooney, ISEA will present her "Yellow Dog River" series of paintings and photography from the Yellow Dog River near Marquette, Michigan. Mooney will be available to answer questions about art creation and inspirations from nature.
Visitors can sample tasty treats and register their names in a decorating gift card drawing.

To attend the March 11 or March 13 events contact Susan Halso at Eastbrook Homes. (616) 988-1342 or email info@eastbrookhomes.com Space is limited for these free events and reservations are strongly encouraged.

Kathleen Mooney, ISEA owns and operates Fire and Water ART gallery and studio at 219 West Main in Lowell Michigan where she enjoys the company of 25 leading local artists. Mooney is a signature member of ISEA the International Society of experimental Artists. Images and information can be found at www.kathleenmooney.com by calling 616-890-1879.

Christmas through Lowell

2009-11-20T03:11:00.001-08:00

Christmas through Lowell this weekend 9-9 on Friday, 9-7 on Saturday and 11-5 on Sunday- our place is just part of the fun! Come to 219 West Main and pick up a map to start your fun!

Carolyn Harper scarves and hats

2009-10-31T04:55:00.000-07:00

'Tis the season in Michigan again for scarves and hats. Come to Fire and Water to see lovely hand crafted choices in beautiful colors.

2009-10-18T13:43:00.000-07:00

Girl's Night Out! What a fun night! Obviously, these kids had a great time! Crazy hat night. Kathleen and Lynn were kept busy making newsprint hats and people enhanced them with all manner of decoration!

Kathleen Mooney's work on display

2009-10-12T06:03:00.001-07:00

Signs & Symbols #2

By Kathleen Mooney, ISEA

Kathleen Mooney drawing on the cliffs of Western Ireland

ON VIEW – LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIVERWALK GALLERY

RIVERWALK GALLERY SHOWS
Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, 113 Riverwalk Plaza. Hours: Tuesday - Friday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, the Riverwalk Gallery showcases artworks by local artists.

Now showing Kathleen Mooney, ISEA

October 3, 2009 – January 4, 2010

Kathleen Mooney, ISEA
Kathleen Mooney, ISEA is an internationally active artist based in Lowell. Mooney’s art is created in water-media paintings, books, sculpture and glass. Signs, symbols and ancient art intrigue and inspire her work. Art is an inescapable expression. Each year Mooney visits the shores of Atlantic Europe where Neolithic art is highly concentrated. Prehistoric stone carvings and alignments are filled with mystery and placed in areas of incredible natural beauty.

Perched high on the cliffs above the pounding Atlantic waves Mooney happily draws and paints. An avid “kayaker” she delights in water for its healing, life-giving and “evolving” properties.

Mooney is a signature member of the International Society of Experimental Artists. Her always forward thinking award winning art is available at Fire and Water Art Studio and Showroom in Lowell, Michigan. Mooney owns and operates Fire and Water ART where she enjoys the company and stimulation of 25 leading local artists.

This show features “Signs and Symbols” multimedia paintings from Mooney’s hand carved block prints, mono-print and mark making painting with tempera and acrylics -- all techniques she teaches in classes held at her local gallery and studio. The classes are designed to teach adults and children how to follow their instincts to create art that is authentic and uniquely their own. Stop in at Fire and Water ART! to see class examples or visit the website at www.fire-and-water-art.com

For more information about Kathleen Mooney’s art see her website at www.kathleenmooney.com

Happy Birthday to us!!

2009-10-06T08:15:00.000-07:00

We are celebrating 3 years of wonderful art together!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY FIRE AND WATER ART!!

pink pride!!

2009-09-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

Lowell High School football is supporting cancer research by wearing pink football uniforms!! You go, Guys!

Fire and Water is promoting cancer awareness through significant donations of art for the local chapter of Gilda's House being opened officially 9/12/09

new art all the time!!

2009-09-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't updated this blog in a while! Shame on me. I'll have to take some pictures at the gallery today and post them! There are new things coming in all the time!! Come and visit! I'm working from 2-7 on Friday Sept 11 and from 11-4 Saturday Sept 12. I'll be hanging this image today. It's Lake and Sky and a study for a larger piece that's in a show in Grand Rapids.

Riverwalk in Lowell

2009-07-08T06:20:00.000-07:00

This week is Riverwalk in Lowell. There will be lots of free activities. It's a great time to stop by Fire and Water ART to see what's new and view this year Ireland paintings by our artist of the month, Kathleen Mooney!

For a full listing of Riverwalk activities, click here.

Kathleen Mooney's new book IRELAND- Cliffs, Rocks and Fields

2009-06-29T15:27:00.000-07:00

Kathleen Mooney's new book IRELAND- Cliffs, Rocks and Fields can be found on the Blurb site Click HERE or find it at Fire And Water ART in Lowell.

Kathleen Conover

2009-06-15T15:56:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Kathleen Conover on having a piece of her work featured in the July/August Artist's Magazine. It is a frozen crystal painting and it is part of an article by Lisa Cyr on innovative art techniques titled "join an Artistic Revolution". Her piece is on page 65.

Patti Sevensma

2009-06-04T05:26:00.000-07:00

Patti Sevensma is our artist of the month for June. Her photos are amazing and her photo montages and nature collages combined with photography, like these shown here, are full of layers of mystery.

Fire and Water artists in Festival of the Arts

2009-05-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

Mike Bryant, Bonnie Osborne, Marylu Dykstra, Patti Sevensma and Deidre Wingelaar are Fire and Water artists who have work in The GR Festival of the Arts.

Deidre won a Water Media Art award for her piece Autumn Glory.

Congrats all!!

Kathleen Conover- artist of the month

2009-05-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

This month we are pleased to present Kathleen Conover as the artist of the month of May. The gallery offers original art, giclee prints (with high quality archival ink) and sets of notecards by this wonderful northern Michigan artist. She has been a teacher and an inspiration to many of the Fire and Water artists. She has just returned from a trip to Ireland and we look forward to seeing the art this trip inspired!

Kathleen will have work featured in the new publication from Northlight Books, ART Revolution: Alternative Approaches fro Fine Artists and Illustrators by Lisa L. Cyr

Yellow Dog River installation

2009-04-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

Kathleen Mooney's Yellow Dog River series is on display in Okemos, Michigan at the Public Library on Okemos Road. Her powerful images are interspersed with photos of the area in the Upper Peninsula in Michigan where the Yellow Dog River is endangered by sulfide mining and bad environmental decisions.

video- not great but you get the idea!

2009-04-14T05:44:00.001-07:00

These are my beginning forays into video. I just found out my digital can take movies. They are a little primitive but you can get an idea of the flow of the space at Fire and Water ART! The last two feature our fearless leader and her wonderful paintings, working on some of the mundane details of being an artist. I'll have to video her painting process sometime!

Jan Y. Johnson Artist of the Month for April

2009-04-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

This month we are delighted to feature a wonderful artist, Jan Y. Johnson. She is a Lowell resident and arts advocate. She has been a painter all her life, worked in graphic design and does exquisite watercolors and acrylics. Stop in to see her work displayed on her large red wall. Wow!

GREEN Women Artists

2009-03-19T06:09:00.000-07:00

Passages 11 by Kathleen Mooney

Sunday March 22 from 2-4 we will have our reception celebrating the women artists with a love and respect for nature who are our heroes and role models.

Rachel Carson, Georgia O'Keeffe, Annie Dillard and Emily Carr are among the artists mentioned by members of our group. Come celebrate these women and our own Fire and Water nature advocate, Kathleen Mooney, as she prepares to show her Yellow Dog River series in Okemos and also anticipates her yearly trip to the wild Western shores of Ireland.

Mike Bryant- Raku pottery

2009-03-01T04:43:00.000-08:00

Mike Bryant is the artist of the month at F&W for March. Come see his beautiful textures and glazes on his wonderful pottery. His business is the Electric Mud Puddle. He is a member of the West Michigan Potter's Guild. They'll be having their spring show on March 21 at East Paris and Burton in SE Grand Rapids at Church of the Servant.

Fire and Water artists in local competitions

2009-02-14T10:32:00.001-08:00

Fire and Water Art, an art gallery in Lowell, Michigan, is pleased to announce that six of their 25 leading award winning artists have pieces in winter 2009 regional art competitions. "The Lowell Area Arts Council's West Michigan Regional Competition, the First United Methodist Celebration Show and Grand Haven's Winterfest are very competitive and are top shows in our area" says Kathleen Mooney – owner of Fire and Water Art. "I am so happy that many of our artists had work included in these venues. Each and every one of them are skilled in techniques and gifted in taking their work that extra step to make art that is unique and special. I am honored to be surrounded by a talented bunch!"

Work by Mike Bryant, Janet Krueger, Patti Sevensma, Deidre Wingelaar, Virginia Wieringa and Cathy Dykstra is included in these regional shows and Fire and Water Art has many works by these artists on our walls. "I would encourage everyone interested in art to attend these competitions and then visit Fire and Water Art to see more and get the whole story about these artists – we are the best place to do that!"

In addition, Mooney announces she is preparing her own one woman show "Yellow Dog – Michigan Wilderness Area at Risk!" which will appear in Okemos in April. "Yellow Dog" is a series of paintings, photographs and a self-published book that explores Mooney's reaction to the mining controversy affecting the Yellow Dog River near
Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

For more information about Fire and Water Art and our artists visit us Wednesday through Sunday 11-4 or Friday 11-7 at 219 West Main in Lowell, Michigan. Our phone number is 616-890-1879 and our website is www.fire-and-water-art.com

Lisa Wierenga - Artist of the month

2009-02-11T07:17:00.001-08:00

Lisa's carved gourds and her artistry in depicting the natural world in pastels and paint make her a favorite at Fire and Water ART!

Fire and Water artists in the Lowell Regional and Celebration

2009-02-11T07:10:00.001-08:00

This piece by Virginia Wieringa was accepted into the First United Methodist Celebration show. Mike Bryant and Janet Krueger also had pieces included in the show. Janet's received a People's Choice award. Deidre Wingelaar had two pieces accepted in Celebration and two pieces in the Lowell Regional! F+W artists Virginia Wieringa, Cathy Dykstra and Janet Krueger also had pieces accepted in the Lowell show. These are very competitive shows. Celebration had more than 400 entries and 160 pieces were juried into the show.

Deidre Wingelaar's work

2009-02-10T05:37:00.001-08:00

Deidre Wingelaar is our fabulous framer at Fire and Water ART! and she is also a wonderful artist. This is her section in the gallery.

Deidre has two pieces included in the local Celebration show at First United Methodist Church in Grand Rapids and also one piece in the Lowell Regional. These are very competitive shows and it's great to see her work included.

CABIN FEVER!!

2009-02-03T05:53:00.001-08:00

Fire and Water Art!

New look! – We have taken advantage of CABIN FEVER to provide the energy to make big changes! We have moved some artists around – remember we are unique in assigning exclusive wall space to each artist – some artists now have expanded space to better provide premier selection of artwork. We have painted walls with juicy new fashion forward colors for 2009.
Have you ever wondered WHY we have so many different wall colors? First reason is to provide a visual cue that one artist’s area has now changed to another artist’s area. Second – and more important to the customer - is so you can see how the art you select would work on a color approximating the color in your home or office.
Imagine not only seeing thousands of great artworks in one place, but also being able to see how it would look in YOUR SPACE. In addition to our great wall colors we also have a “Try It / Buy It” program where you can have the artwork on approval basis for 1 week.
Just ask at Fire and Water Art and we will be happy to help!

updated website

2008-12-26T08:39:00.000-08:00

Visit our updated website www.fire-and-water-art.com

new hours

2008-12-26T08:33:00.000-08:00

Our new hours are posted on the right. We've been trying to research and find hours that are most convenient for our customers and after experimenting, we're opening earlier and closing a little early on some days. Fridays will be our longest day, 11am-7pm and Deidre, our framer, will be in on Fridays.

Kathleen Mooney's new book!

2008-10-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

JUST PUBLISHED –
“Yellow Dog” is a new book just published by Kathleen Mooney, ISEA. Mooney is an internationally recognized artist from Lowell, Michigan See www.fire-and-water-art.com for more information about Mooney and her art.

“Yellow Dog” features 66 full color pages of Mooney’s art and photography in large format (landscape 13”x11”) presentation.

The Yellow Dog series of 15 water-media paintings was created in response to the ongoing mining controversy in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Marquette area and specifically the Yellow Dog River. For more information see www.savethewildup.org. Many of the original paintings for the series are on exhibit at Fire and Water Art at 219 West Main in Lowell, Michigan. One of the paintings “Yellow Dog River” recently gained Mooney Signature status in ISEA – the International Society of Experimental Artists at their 2008 exhibit in Houston TX.

The “Yellow Dog” HARDCOVER book will be on sale at Fire and Water Art!
219 West Main (P O Box 56) Lowell MI 49331 in EARLY NOVEMBER 2008. Phone 616-890-1879.

“Yellow Dog” is also available by ordering online at www.blurb.com/bookstore (search for Yellow Dog or Kathleen Mooney) or http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/379086

Lowell Chamber of Commerce

2008-06-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

Fire and Water artist Virginia Wieringa will be showing more of her work down the street from our gallery at the Lowell Chamber of Commerce building at 113 Riverwalk Plaza (across from the showboat and behind the Flat River Grill). The show will feature 10-13 of Virginia's acrylic paintings and her dancer photos. It runs through the summer, June 15- September 5. Here's a painting that will be hanging this show: DAWN OVER 96. The title is appropriate for this venue because 96 runs right past Lowell. This painting is 30"x40".

Lowell is a great little town! Come visit us at Fire and Water ART! and stroll down to the Chamber to see more of Virginia's work.

Bob Gronevelt

2008-06-03T13:00:00.001-07:00

These are a few examples of Bob's fine work in wood. He's the artist of the month at Fire and Water for June.

Kathleen Conover- artist of the month

2008-05-12T04:05:00.001-07:00

Kathleen Conover is a master artist from Marquette Michigan and has been a favorite instructor for many of the Fire and Water artists. We are delighted to feature her work this month as artist of the month at Fire and Water ART! She is teaching a workshop this week at the Franciscan Process Life Center in Lowell. She has originals, giclee prints and notecards available at our gallery.

Festival of the Arts 2008

2008-05-07T17:07:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the Fire and Water artists who had work accepted into the Festival of the Arts in Grand Rapids: Gloria Allen,Bob Bauer, Mike Bryant, Karen Godfrey, Patti Sevensma, Kim Vandenberg, Virginia Wieringa, and Deidre Wingelaar.

D R Dimes bowback Windsor side chairs

2008-04-13T13:32:00.000-07:00

We have a set of four of these beautiful chairs.

D R Dimes lowback arm chairs

2008-04-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

These D R Dimes lowback arm chairs are handcrafted museum copies of 18th Century antiques and have a dark green crackle finish. Beautiful! They are over a Claire Murray heirloom wool rug.

D R DIMES FURNITURE

2008-04-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

This handcrafted museum copy of an 18th Century dresser made of Tiger Maple and Cherry is one of the newest pieces at Fire and Water.

Lisa Wierenga

2008-04-04T07:08:00.000-07:00

http://artbyhisdesign.com/ Check out work by our new artist Lisa Wierenga (spelled differently than Virginia Wieringa).

Kathleen Mooney books

2008-03-20T05:39:00.000-07:00

April 2008 at Fire and Water Art!

In April 2008 Kathleen Mooney features her Hand Painted Books

at Fire and Water Art! at 219 W Main in Lowell MI.

At least 5 of Mooney's hand illustrated original books will be on display. Mooney's books are original paintings and collage work -- many of the books use her own hand carved stamps of ancient signs and symbols. Archaeology, Ireland and universal myths inspire her images. A DVD movie of her book Universal Artifacts will be running in a continuous loop. Universal Artifacts is back from its 2007 exhibit at the ISEA International Society of International Artists show in Santa Cruz CA. Mooney is known for her ancient and pre-historic inspired abstract and 3D works. More information is available on her website www.fire-and-water-art.com.

A reception will be held Sunday April 6th 2-4 - Kathleen Mooney will do demonstrations of her painting process using her own hand carved stamps of ancient signs and symbols. Visitors will have the opportunity to discuss the inspiration for her books.

self portrait Janet Krueger

2008-03-19T07:06:00.000-07:00

Here's Janet in her La Petite Galleria, aka the powder room at Fire and Water- we don't waste any space! Her self-portrait shows her running and there's a Shakespeare quote in there that I'll have to make note of next time I'm there! She has lovely petite landscapes in there as well.

self portrait Patti Sevensma

2008-03-15T05:31:00.000-07:00

self-portrait Kathleen Mooney

2008-03-15T05:12:00.001-07:00

This post and many following are self portraits of Fire and Water women artists presented in honor of women's history month. On Sunday March 16 from 2-4 in the afternoon, we will be having a reception and having readings about the inspirations of women who have shaped us as artists.

self-portrait Virginia Wieringa

2008-03-15T05:10:00.000-07:00

self-portrait Karen Godfrey

2008-03-15T05:09:00.001-07:00

self-portrait Jan Y Johnson

2008-03-15T05:08:00.001-07:00

self-portrait Holli Dey

2008-03-15T05:07:00.001-07:00

self-portrait Bonnie Osborne

2008-03-15T05:06:00.000-07:00

self-portrait Deidre Wingelaar

2008-03-15T05:05:00.001-07:00

self-portraits Jan Upp

2008-03-15T05:03:00.000-07:00

David Davis

2008-03-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

The artists of Fire and Water ART! mourn the loss of our friend David Davis who died last night at the age of 64. His faith in God sustained him through many losses and health challenges. He was a fun filled and knowledgeable teacher of art and a wonderful artist. He was a fixture in Lowell and has influenced and encouraged many budding artists. I will always remember his reference to the color 'chocolate green' and the way he encouraged and teased people to relax into the process of art. He was a very caring person and he will be missed by his many friends and admirers.

Self Portrait

2008-03-08T14:11:00.001-08:00

This is an autobiographical collage (and closeups)
by Fire and Water artist
Virginia Wieringa titled
'Vee Gates' (or wie gehts in
German it means What's happening!)

article

2008-03-08T14:10:00.000-08:00

Below is an article from the March 7 Grand Rapids Press about the Women's History Celebration at the gallery.

visionary women

2008-03-08T14:07:00.000-08:00

Lowell Regional Winner!!

2008-02-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

Best of Show – Fire and Water Artist Bonnie Osborne (Lowell, MI) won best of show with, “Tree Gestures” (Pastel)
Other Fire and Water artists represented are Deidre Wingelaar, Karen Godfrey, Holli Dey, Kim VandenBerg and Virginia Wieringa.

March is Women's History month

2008-02-10T13:20:00.000-08:00

March is Women's History Month
and we are celebrating BIG at Fire and Water Art:
"Visionary Women" – This exhibit honors the importance of female
artists in today's society. Women intuitively know how to inspire,
motivate, and pave the way to a better world.
To acknowledge the role that female artists play in today's society,
the artists of Fire and Water Art will be exhibiting their own self-
portraits during the month of March, 2008.
Female artists open the eyes, ears, and minds of society and use art as a therapeutic tool.

The reception will be Sunday, March 16th from 2 to 4pm:
The artists of Fire and Water Art are celebrating the role of female artists to spark engagement with the community and say,
"Stop, you can't walk past this. This is your life!"
Women know how to invite the viewer to be a part of something
greater than themselves and to explore other possibilities. Meet
and greet our very own visionaries from Michigan.
Hear readings about the artists that inspire us.
Participate in making "Women Power" greeting cards.

Tues day, March 25 - "Honoring the Goddess Within"
A Workshop at Fire and Water Gallery - 219 W. Main, Lowell - 6 - 9 pm $45
Pre-registration required - 616-364-7645.
Learn about how pre-historic cultures honored the Goddess and about your own goddess archetypes. Then make clay amulets and beads to honor your Inner Goddess.
Facilitators: Karen Godfrey and Linda Griggs.

Girls' Night Out February 21 5-9 – a fun event!!

Deidre Wingelaar- artist of the month

2008-01-01T15:29:00.001-08:00

Deidre Wingelaar is the artist of the month for January at Fire and Water ART. This image is called WATER'S EDGE. This image is on page 88 of the Grand Rapids Magazine for January.

There will be a reception at the gallery on Friday, January 18 from 6-8 pm.

Deidre works in water media and does some of her work on paper that she prepares by freezing paint into frost crystals on the paper. This piece was done partly with the help of rubbing alcohol.

She will also have a solo show of her work at Park Church in Grand Rapids from March 5- April 15.

FABRIC OF TIME

2008-01-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

FABRIC OF TIME by Deidre Wingelaar

Jan Y Johnson

2007-12-20T07:27:00.000-08:00

Here's what Jan, our featured artist of December, says about her work and life:

Farm girl. Caledonia and Kendall grad.
Wintered at Ringling School of art painting animals
Came home. Married Kendall sweetheart.
Always painting.
Artist for textbooks and local newspaper.
Chased our two boys, taught YMCA art classes.
Exhibited at art fairs and shows.
Always painting.
The kids grew up.
Publication designer at Amway Corp. for twenty plus years.
Always painting.
Realism. Abstract, combine both. Watercolor's the medium mostly.
Always painting.

KIM VANDENBERG feeatured in the GR Press Saturday Dce 8, 2007

2007-12-08T08:31:00.001-08:00

Words of encouragement: Artist Kim VandenBerg talks with eighth graderJalin Faison about closing his eyes while making pinch pots for Reverse Job Shadow Day at Harrison Middle School.

PRESS PHOTO/KATY BATDORFF

BY BETH LOECHLER
THE GRAND RAPIDS PRESS
Career professionals tout ‘doingwhat you love’ Education is key to attaining goals, they tell
middle-schoolers— Eighthgrader Michael Braxton wants to be an auto mechanic when he grows
up, so he knows he will need to take a lot of math courses “because I’ll need to know how to measure parts and stuff,” he said. Seventh-grader Bailey DeRossi dreams of becoming a doctor, or maybe a teacher, so doing well in a wide range of classes is vital, she acknowledged.
Braxton, DeRossi and the rest of the students at Harrison Middle School got a glimpse at the possibilities Friday during Junior Achievement Reverse Job Shadow Day, when about 30 professionals visited the school, talked about their careers and did their best to convince
the adolescents that working hard today will pay off tomorrow. “You eighth-graders, over the
next four and a half years, you will make choices that will affect you for the rest of your life,” Grand Rapids Public Schools Superintendent Bernard Taylor addressed the group at
the start of the day. “Start asking yourself some fundamental questions about what your
life will be,” he said. “Be prepared. And being prepared means having an education.”
In art classes, Kim Schwamberger told students about her love of drawing and being creative. She majored in accounting in college but switched careers at age 35 to become an interior designer. “Somebody designed that chair,” she motioned toward the rear of the classroom. “Maybe that’s what you’d be interested in doing.” Next door in the music room, Richard Britsch, principal French hornist for the Grand Rapids Symphony, told middle-schoolers he practiced four or five hours a day. Maybe a few of them would like more music in their lives, he suggested.
In the gym, fitness trainer Aaron Cobb explained the roles human anatomy, human physiology and math play in his job. Then he got the seventh-graders on their feet for a quick training session. The JA program started a few years ago with just a couple of schools. This year 17 Reverse Job Shadow days are planned at area middle schools. A firefighter, author, accountant,
financial planner, ambulance driver, lawyer, health-care worker and others took part in the daylong program at Harrison. “The one thing they have in common is that they all love what they do,” guidance counselor Marsha Preston told students. “That’s our wish for you.” And while Taylor encouraged the middle school students to start thinking about the future, he stressed the present is important, too. “The job you have right now is to be the best student you can be. Everyone wants you to focus on this job right now,” he said.

Jan Johnson- our featured artist for December

2007-12-03T14:45:00.000-08:00

Jan is a wonderful watercolor artist. I apologize for my terrible photos of her work at the Showroom! They don't come close to doing her work justice!

Jan Johnson- our featured artist for December

2007-12-01T10:33:00.000-08:00

Jan Johnson is our featured artist for December. One of her many skills is book illustration! She did the paintings for this charming children's book "The Floor is not a Closet" and another about a Great Dane titled "Big Brave Boomer".

Award winning artists

2007-11-21T04:29:00.001-08:00

This painting by Virginia Wieringa won a first prize (cash award) yesterday in the People's Choice awards at Bishop Hills Retirement Community. Our Rivertown Artist Guild has a show there every fall and the staff and residents vote on their favorites. She says "I won 3rd last year and 2nd the year before that! I saved this particular painting for that show because I knew it was a crowd pleaser. I like it too." It lived at Fire and Water for a few months and was considered for purchase by a few folks. Next stop for the West Virginia Roadside Poppies is the lobby of St Mary's Health Care in January. See more of Virginia's work at www.virginiawieringa.com

Those folks at Bishop Hills have pretty good taste! Steve Huyser-Honig, our newest Fire and Water artist captured 3rd prize with one of his exquisite photos of the Grand Haven Michigan lighthouse. Check out more of Steve's work at the Fire and Water ART Showroom and also on line at www.greatlakeseditions.com (see the previous post for more about Steve).

STEVE HUYSER-HONIG

2007-11-14T17:04:00.000-08:00

Fire and Water Art! welcomes photographer Steven Huyser-Honig. Steve is captivated by the beauty of the Great Lakes region. Beaches and dunes, lighthouses and breakwaters, farms and orchards, forests and streams, small towns and big cities, the gentle touch of nature and heavy hand of industry—all provide an endless source of inspiration for him.

Though his subjects are as diverse as the region we live in, his approach to each is constant. He’s drawn to bold colors, simple lines, and formal compositions. People often remark that at first they thought his photographs were paintings.

Steve’s hope is to share with you a sense of wonder and whimsy at the beauty of our world…and his dedication to preserving this beauty for future generations. Ten percent of every purchase is contributed to an organization working to preserve the lighthouses, land, and water resources of the Great Lakes region.

Steve prints his photographs with pigment inks on natural cotton rag papers—materials and methods that are more environmentally friendly than traditional photographic processes. And unlike traditional color photographic prints, with a lifespan measured in decades at best, this combination of materials will last, with care, for generations.

If you would like to see more of Steve’s work, visit his website: www.greatlakeseditions.com.

He also writes two blogs that touch on Great Lakes issues. If you are interested in Great Lakes Environmental news, check out www.greatlakesforall.com . If you share his fascination with lighthouses, you might want to check out www.lighthousesforever.com .

featured artist for November Virginia Wieringa

2007-10-26T05:46:00.000-07:00

I have the honor of being the featured artist at the showroom for November. These are a couple of the mixed media pieces I have on display. I work in a wide range of styles and I enjoy the variety. Some may think my work lacks a singular focus because of my wide range of media and subjects, but I like the freedom to experiment! Come in and see my work this month (and every month) at this fabulous art showroom!

Also visit my blog at www.vwieringa.blogspot.com
and my website www.virginiawieringa.com

Kim Vandenberg- photographer and ceramist

2007-10-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

MOTHER DAUGHTER by Kim Vandenberg

ARTIST'S STATEMENT

A glimpse into my world these past 40 years... Daughter, Wife, Mother,Artist, Teacher, and Friend.

In general, I enjoy life and embrace every new experience and encounter. My most recent accomplishments as an artist was an invitation to the spring,

Festival 2007 Regional Art, West Michigan Regional Competition 2007,

Lansing Fire & Mud 2006 of The Lansing Art Gallery, Grand Rapids Art

Festival 2005, Lowell Art Regional Show 2005, West Michigan Regional

77th of Muskegon Art Museum 2004, Scarab Club 2003, and U of M show at the Berkowitz Gallery 2003.

I have moved from sculpted vessels and functional arts, such as bowls, and I am currently creating one of kind ceramic pieces. I enjoy art history, the great masters of architecture and photography is incorporated in my work, although natures beauty is also a great inspiration.

My second love is to teach children and give back what I have learned. I teach art enrichment classes independently and through Grandville Academy of Arts. We have enriched the lives of the students by presenting Goytako printing, ceramics, origami, sculpture, and several other mediums.

I am a resident of North Grand Rapids and have given back to the community by chairing events the Grand Rapids Art Festival.

I am a graduate of Grand Rapids Community College and have attended Center of Creative Studies in Detroit. I have worked as a jeweler and designer in Farmington Hills, Michigan. I also enjoy metal and wire sculpture, photography and weaving natural fibers.

May your world be inspired through art.

Kimberly Anne VandenBerg

Bob Gronevelt tables

2007-10-07T12:47:00.001-07:00

We have a lovely assortment of tables by Lowell resident Bob Gronevelt.
These are lovingly hand crafted and have a sumptuous finish.

THE BEAUTIES OF GLASS

2007-08-23T05:12:00.000-07:00

Glass jewelry by
Kathleen Mooney

Sept 1 - Oct 31 2007

Featuring Glass art works
by Kathleen Mooney in
paintings, sculpture and
jewelry.

Also, available for viewing
and purchase will be a 20
piece private collection of
Art Glass dating from the
1950s to the present day.

Other showroom artists
will feature works depicting
the beauty of glass in
watercolor and photography.
New process photographic
images fused within glass
will be a special feature
of the show.
    

This is coordinated with the Lowell Area Arts Council

Studio Glass!West Michigan Style Invitational Art Exhibition
Sept. 4 - Oct. 20, 2007 Public Reception:  Sunday, September 16^th
 from 2pm - 4pm
This invitational exhibition features the diverse work of artists using different
methods of glass art making. Glasswork methods in this exhibition will include:
blowing, lampworking, casting, fusing, mosaics, stained glass and also mixed
media work combining glass with other mediums.
Our own Kathleen Mooney is one of the exhibitors.

For more information go to www.lowellartscouncil.org

Glass in paintings

2007-08-23T05:05:00.000-07:00

These paintings are among the pieces included at the showroom for the Beauties of Glass show Sept 1-Oct 31.

The Beauties of Sculpture and Glass

2007-08-23T05:01:00.001-07:00

Metal sculpture with glass by Kathleen Mooney- her work is featured along with other glass related photos and art for September and October.