Friday was a busy but wonderful day as I hung my show at Mithun (with the help of my incredibly supportive sweetie Darin Reid) and officially opened the show in the evening. It’s such fun to see my paintings on the wall! They look beautiful in frames. Artwork goes through a mysterious transformation when it leaves the studio and is presented more formally. Something snaps into place and everything looks better… In the case of my work at Mithun, I also decided to go with the best materials. My favorite Seattle frame shop,  Plasteel, built me lovely beveled walnut frames. I bought my conservation clear plexi-glass from Clear Cut Plastics in Fremont, cut my own mats, and put everything together. Through the process, I learned another trick from artist Ann Breckon  – I ironed my paintings to flatten them! (Use acid free surfaces, the cotton setting with steam, and press them overnight…) All in all, quite a bit of work, but satisfying to know I can do it- and do it well!  

For the actual hanging, I was delighted to discover the  Griplock system, and I have to say, it made my job much easier. My paintings at Mithun are suspended on cables that have gliding hooks, making it simple to adjust the height of the painting. I may purchase some of the components to use for future shows. 

During the opening, I gave a presentation and enjoyed meeting both Mithun employees and friends and acquaintances. It was great fun to see how my field sketching and process resonated with the architects and their own art practice. Mithun is an inspirational and supportive company and I am delighted to share my work with them. It’s also open for the public to visit, so do stop by if you are downtown!