Casey Shannon Studio Image

The Sound of One Hand: Reaching Beyond the limits of Traditional Ink Painting

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Lost Your Creative Motivation? Let's find it!

Have you lost your Creative Motivation? Let's find it!
Here is another great article that I discovered from Renee Phillips, the art coach.
Signs That You’ve Lost Your Creative Motivation

It’s only natural to periodically experience a loss of energy, knowing there is something more rewarding in store for you, but it’s outside your grasp. Here are some signs that you’ve lost your creative motivation.

    Do you feel envy toward artists who express their creative passion and wish you were more like them?

    Do you have recurring thoughts of doing something exciting outside your comfort zone but fear stops you?

    Do you feel lethargic and uninspired when you’re in your studio?

    Are you complaining often and having negative thoughts about your art career?

    Do you find yourself discouraged and resentful about the art world in general?

    Are you spending more time trying to please others instead of doing things to please yourself?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions you’re not alone. Losing your creative motivation can be a painful situation. However, it is only temporary. You may soon find yourself on the threshold of a new powerful direction. It could be just the catalyst you need for growth and transformation.

How To Restore Creative Energy, Motivation and Passion. Try these 15 ideas to ignite your potential for joyful self-expression

    1. Create a Vision Board and post pictures of items that get your heart pumping and your imagination soaring.
    2. Make a list of every single thing you love, are grateful for, and inspired by.
    3. Visualize yourself on the cover of a leading art magazine. What wonderful achievements does the headline say you’ve accomplished?
    4. Take a workshop in a new medium, for pure enjoyment, without any expectations.
   5. Go to a museum or gallery that you have never visited.
    6. Create some artwork using only your non-dominant hand.
    7. Surround yourself with people who exude enthusiasm for life.
    8. Do something that takes you outside your comfort zone.
    9. Commune with nature while in a state of mindlessness.
    10. Start a journal.
    11. Give yourself permission to please yourself and have your needs met.
    12.  Read about powerful creative people, past and present. 
13.   Binge on positive Youtube videos and documentaries for a week.
 14.  Collect inspirational quotations and read them daily.
    15.  Give yourself time and space during this process without self-judgment, force, or the need to fix yourself.
I hope this blog article has helped you. I have used several of these suggestions with varying degrees of success. All have been helpful.
 Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
  Casey Shannon Studio Art.


凱西香儂齋
 

Thursday, October 13, 2016

Resources for Artists - Opportunities

Resources for Artist Opportunities

I came across this wonderful article by Renee Phillips, Artist Coach. It's an article about Resources Opportunities for Artists. I thought it may be of benefit to many of you so I am sharing it on my blog.
There are many opportunities for artists to be found on the vast Internet such as calls for artists, grants, workshops, residencies, art exhibitions and other events. Here are three of the most popular and respected resources where artists can find opportunities and other valuable information. ART TIMES Journal, Professional Artist magazine, and Art Opportunities Monthly have been in existence since the 1980’s. Each one provides a different array of services. 
Art Times Journal

ART TIMES Journal www.arttimesjournal.com, is a highly respected publication that was launched by Cornelia Seckel and Raymond Steiner, wife and husband, in 1984. Its motto is “The go to source for creatives and those who appreciate good writings”. This free online publication provides a quarterly commentary and resource for the fine and performing arts and includes: art editorials, art reviews, essays and critiques; short fiction and poetry; opportunities listings, essays on dance, theater, film, music and an extensive calendar of cultural events.
It also contains a listing directory of opportunities for artists. It’s free. You’ll find that page here. The ART TIMES facebook and twitter page keeps fans up to date with new events, essays, and videos. If you’d like to be on ART TIMES email list simply send them an email to info@arttimesjournal.com

 
Professional Artist Magazine
I had a very lovely article about me and my artwork written by Renee Phillips appear in this magazine last year. It opened many opportunities for me. Professional Artist Magazine is known as “The Magazine For Professional Artists”. It was formerly known as “Art Calendar”,  founded in the 1980’s. It is dedicated to providing business tools and information for independent visual artists from all backgrounds. Published in magazine format four times a year, each issue presents practical business advice on subjects such as art marketing, art law, portfolio development, exhibition presentation, communication skills and sales techniques, as well as articles to encourage and motivate artists to succeed. It also provides a comprehensive list of calls to artists available both in the printed magazine (by subscription) and online (free). You can subscribe to its free email newsletter “The Buzz” by going here


Art Opportunities Monthly
A rt Opportunities Monthly (AOM) http://www.artopportunitiesmonthly.com/, is a carefully screened and very comprehensive art opportunities list for traditional and contemporary artists. It has listings of opportunities for artists working in painting, sculpture, photography, film, video, printmaking, book art, computer art, collage, weaving, fiber, textiles, ceramics, papermaking, mixed media, photography, computer art, monoprint, pastel, performance art, drawing, enameling, wood carving, crafts, jewelry, installation art, new media, public art, gouache, watercolor painting and every other visual medium. It is used by artists working in any style and geographic location.

Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
  Casey Shannon Studio Art.


凱西香儂齋
 

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Fall Artist Reception

Carmel Valley Art Association Art Gallery

This is the art gallery that shows my sumi-e art work. I am a featured artist here. We are having our Fall 2016 Artist Reception and you are invited!
 
Saturday
September 24, 2016
4pm to 7pm
 
#2 Chambers Lane
Carmel Valley Village, CA.


Robin Contemplating a Song
by Casey Shannon

Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋
 

Friday, September 2, 2016

Quick Art Marketing Tip!

Sumi-e Work by Casey Shannon
In it's forever home!
Carmel Valley, CA.

Follow every sale with a handwritten thank-you note. This thank-you note adds a warm, personal touch that will let your clients know you truly appreciate their business. By adding one simple line to your thank-you note, you can encourage feedback from your clients, and get a picture of the artwork you sold them that will be of incredible value to you in your future marketing efforts.

The line to add to your thank-you note is this:

   " If you have a moment and would be willing to snap a photograph of the piece, I would love to see it in its new home, and I’d love to share the photo with clients who are considering my work. You can email the photo to me at me@youremailaddress.com
 
Sumi-e by Casey Shannon
In it's forever home!
Laguna Niguel, CA.

This simple request almost always results in a photo, and often several photos of the piece. Most customers are not only happy to take the photo, they enjoy showing the piece off and love the thought of helping the artist’s career along. Often, the client will also write a little note to accompany the photo, sharing their feelings about the piece. Then you even get a testimonial! Do not allow yourself to get discouraged if your client does not answer you or says they will send a photo but do not. Just go ahead and ask the next client!
 
Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋
 

Sunday, June 12, 2016

Be Like the Buddha Cat

Buddha Cat 

Most animals are full of gratitude for the present moment. Our feline friends just might be among the greatest Buddhist teachers on the planet. Cats embody Buddhist qualities and principles in a natural, effortless way. The following are six examples of Buddhist wisdom from cats:

1. Embrace and Savor the Moment

Embrace and savor the moment and  cats are no exception. Cats sleep when they are tired and eat when they are hungry; conversely, the unenlightened human mind tends to think a hundred thoughts before sleeping and while eating. Strive to embrace and savor each moment without distractions or mind chatter.

2. Make Use of Koans

Some Zen masters have been known to meditate for years on a single koan. The cat’s favorite koan is a simple one: Meow. The definition of koans lies beyond logic, and diligent repetition just might lead you to the gateless gate.

3. Move Mindfully

Cats are known for their ability to walk gracefully over cluttered and challenging terrain. Even if they stumble, they always seem to land on their feet. Remember to move softly and mindfully in your life with each step, and you will be on the road to Enlightenment.

4. Be Focused and Patient

A cat can watch a mouse hole for as long as it takes to pounce at the perfect moment. They embody the one-pointed mind, right concentration and “maintaining evenness.” While waiting, they are alert, still, and present in the moment. Strive to enjoy the fullness of waiting, anticipation, and the gaps between activity – and between thoughts – in your own life as well.

5. Be Unwavering In Your Faith

There are stories of lost cats traversing hundreds of miles to find their way home. The precious jewel of Enlightenment may seem elusive, but it is the destiny of us all. Whether in this lifetime or another, our awakening is assured and progress can be made each day. Be unwavering in your faith in your journey toward Enlightenment.

6. Chant For the Joy of It

In addition to meditation, chanting can be a valuable element of a Buddhist practice. It quiets the mind, centers the spirit, provides a focal point and exudes a positive intention. Cats tend to purr when they are happiest, and the sound is at once joyful and peaceful. Strive to bring joy and equanimity into your Buddhist chanting practice.
 

There are Zen masters among us, and many of them are cats. Whether you are a cat owner or just appreciate them, there is much to learn from these sleek, graceful animals. Strive to remember and embody these six gems of Buddhist wisdom from cats. 
* From Buddha Groove 

Here is a great book to guide you and your  Zen Cat within. Meditate along with the verses to gain a greater understanding of you, your life and your purpose. Find the meaning of truth in these verses and how to find it in the world around you. Let your inner Zen Cat guide you to enlightenment.

Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋

Saturday, June 11, 2016

ICCPS Tokyo Exhibition 2016

Corner of Tokyo Exhibition 2016

Let me take you on a little trip through the ICCPS Tokyo Exhibition for 2016. These sumi calligraphy and painting scrolls are by the members of the Tokyo Branch of ICCPS - International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society. The society was founded in 2010 by Master Sumi Artist Ransui Yakata of Tokyo. This is a global society. Gregory Cortecero, French Branch Director, and myself as the North America Branch Director have our work included in the exhibit representing our branches.

Let me show you some of the work at the stunning exhibit.
Photos courtesy of Fujiko.

 Exhibit Goers

Beautiful Corner View 

More Lovely Work and Viewers

Close-Up of Two Scrolls 

My Work
'Dragon River' 

Dragon River - Detail
Sumi-e by Casey Shannon
14 x 15 - Sumi (Ink) - Xuan Paper

To view a short video of the exhibit go HERE

I hope you have enjoyed your tour!

Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋
 


Thursday, June 9, 2016

Info: Thick Ma Paper

NW Seascape Rambling
Sumi-e by Casey Shannon
14 x 15 Sumi (Ink) on Ma Paper

I wanted to show you a painting created on a different kind of Ma. This sumi-e was created on the thickest of the Ma or Hemp papers. It has the elegant off white color with the paper fibers showing here and there. This makes for a lovely texture. This is a semi-sized paper and some ink painters call this paper "slow". You do not need to paint as quickly as you do when painting on Xuan paper. Your brush strokes can be made slower and still have quality results. I have found this paper is great for landscapes. It is too thick for mounting into a scroll. However it can be framed beautifully.

Click HERE for more information and my blog post of May 25, 2016 on Ma paper.

You can see more of my recent work using different papers on my website.


Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Sociey

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋

Sunday, June 5, 2016

Incense Ceremony

Incense

There is nothing like good incense!  Nothing makes me feel so instantly blissful, content, and at peace than the smell of incense. When I'm having a bad day or difficult time,  I light some incense and whatever troubles me fades away with each breath I take. The Japanese culture has taken the burning of incense to a whole other level - The Incense Ceremony. ( Koh-do )


Like the tea ceremony (called chanoyu (茶の湯) and flower arrangement ( called Ikebana) , Koh-do, or "incense ceremony," is an important tradition in Japan. Koh-do is always presented by licensed practitioners who have graduated from koh schools — either the Shino or Oie schools — that have have been preserving and conveying this tradition for over five centuries. Incense ceremony is traditionally carried out in the Koh room (as pictured), with a Master of Ceremonies and a small group of participants. Most incense ceremonies involve a game in which the participants attempt to guess the scent is being burned. There are hundreds of variations of these incense games.

While the formal Koh-do ceremony is steeped in protocol and tradition, the main idea is to have fun with fragrance and learn to "listen" to incense. Of course, one does not have to have an experienced, "trained nose" to enjoy and appreciate incense. Informal gatherings of people can meet to share different kinds of incense and create their own games.

A good source of additional information about the vivid history and culture of Japanese incense, including Koh-do incense ceremony, is The Book of Incense by Kiyoko Morita.

The Book of Incense
I have created some  Zen Digital Art as prints to sooth and relax. Have you ever watched smoke from incense curl up into the sky? Your senses are filled with relaxation as you smell and see the smoke spirit. Created by accomplished Carmel artist Casey Shannon.
Smoke Spirit 
by Casey Shannon
Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Sociey

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋

Saturday, May 28, 2016

Japan Exhibition 2016

Japan Exhibition 2016
Tokyo Japan
June 6 to 12 2016

I am pleased and honored to share with you that I will be representing the North America Branch of ICCPS at the Tokyo Japan art Exhibition 2016. The exhibit is organized by master Ryunosuke Yakata founder of ICCPS - International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society. Exhibit runs June 6 - 12, 2016

This show is the work of Ransui Yakata's sumi-e and calligraphy art academy. It includes the work of the directors of the branches of ICCPS - China, France, Russia, and North America. 

My work: Dragon River





Dragon River
Sumi-e by Casey Shannon
15 x 18 Sumi (Ink) on Xuan Paper

This work was mounted and made into a hanging scroll for the show. I will post pictures of the exhibit as soon as I receive them.



Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Sociey

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Ma (Hemp) Paper

Touching Beach
Sumi-e by Casey Shannon
Sumi (ink) on 12 x 13.5 on Ma Paper 
 
Ma Paper 
I had never painted on Ma (Hemp) paper before I painted this sumi-e. I liked this paper for painting my landscape. This paper is made of wild hemp fibers. It is thin with an elegant natural off white finish. It has fibers showing through the paper which create interest yet the paper is smooth. It is very strong which allows for wet on wet style painting. It is very durable for washes. 
 
Ma Paper is considered a semi-sized paper.. This paper, with it's longer fibers, gives artists the ability to paint wet-on-wet with confidence. A common use for this paper is painting landscapes with washes, clouds, mists and waterfalls. Ma is a favorite of landscape painters because of its ability to handle repetitive washes and shading without pilling or tearing. You can also
use thick, intense color on this paper to achieve lively and vivid results.
 
I got my Ma Paper from Henry at Blue Heron Arts. Henry carries two kinds of Ma Paper. Single and double. Single is very thin yet super strong. Double is thick which can be used for painting or for printing. I have not painted on the double thickness yet but will try it soon. 

You can see more of my recent work using different papers on my website.


Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Sociey

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋
 
 
 
 

Monday, May 23, 2016

Carmel Valley Ranch Magazine

Carmel Valley Ranch Magazine
Carmel Valley, CA

I am very pleased to announce that my sumi-e artwork is being featured in Carmel Valley Ranch Magazine along with a few other very talented local artists from CVAA - Carmel Valley Art Association. We have a two page spread. This is the magazine of Carmel Valley Ranch 2016 and is in all the lodges and inns in Carmel Valley. I am very honored to have my sumi-e work represented here.



Can you see my work?

My sumi-e is in the upper left-hand corner of the magazine. It is titled: "Wabi Sabi - Rising Up" and represents the landscape of my life. This painting is actually a commemorative painting in celebration marking 30 years of my stroke. 

You can see more of my sumi-e art on my website.

Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Sociey

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


凱西香儂齋

Thursday, May 19, 2016

Nothing like a handmade sumi brush!

 Handmade Sumi Brush

There is nothing like a handmade sumi brush by Richard Paldino. The picture above is my sumi brush made by Richard. It is a combination bristle of weasel and goat hair. I first met Richard on Facebook. He makes beautiful brushes for each individual that wants one. He expertly  carves the handle from Orange wood.  Richard asks you how you paint, which hand you use, and where do you hold the handle so he can make just the right brush for you! My brush is infused with spirit and love from it's maker and I am honored to use it.

My Bristle in the Making
Step One

My Bristle in the Making
Step Two


My Bristle in the Making
Step Three

Richard Paldino can be contacted through FaceBook




Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Sociey

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


 
凱西香儂齋
 
 

Sunday, March 13, 2016

Mala Beads ~ A Prayer Chant ~ Meditation


Sketch of my Mala Beads
by Casey Shannon

I have been chanting and meditating for many years now. It soothes me and relaxes my brain while bringing spirit to my soul. My mala beads or prayer beads help me focus my mind while doing a chanting meditation. My fingers flow over the beads while chanting and help to create focus and a calm within my heart.

What are Mala Beads you ask?
These special beads are called malas (or japa malas), and they have been in existence for thousands of years. You can find them almost anywhere in the world, although their earliest origins stem from India and Nepal – where meditation has been practiced longest. Today anyone can use mala beads as a way to create calm and peace of mind in everyday life. Malas are used in traditional prayer and meditation, although anyone can begin to use malas without prior experience.
 Each mala contains a set number of beads (usually 108) representing spiritual identity and connection with the universe. In meditation the idea is to move one bead at a time, using each movement as an opportunity to focus on a breath or mantra. This process creates positive spiritual energy – known as ‘japa.’

A standard japa mala will usually contain 108 beads, the number representing the coordinates of the spiritual center of the universe. The guru bead (largest bead at the top, or the bead marked with a tassel) represents the sacred bond of the student-teacher relationship. Therefore, when meditating, it is advised to turn around and reverse directions when you reach the guru bead – to avoid “stepping over” one’s teacher. 

What are Malas made of?
Traditional malas are made using organic materials such as plant seed, wood, and animal bone, which are carved or shaped into rounded beads. Historically, malas made of Rudraksha seed are thought to carry special significance, as the seed is believed to hold spiritual and healing power. Similarly, malas made from Bodhi seeds represent the ancient fig tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment more than 3,000 years ago.
 Mala beads made from carved bone are common in Tibetan culture – signifying impermanence and the necessity for compassion during our time in this world. And mala beads made from wood or tagua nut represent a spiritual connection with the earth – great for promoting mindfulness and grounding energy during meditation.

 Malas can be made using a wide variety of gemstones with specific healing properties. For example, rose quartz (pink) promotes compassion, lapis (blue) helps calm the mind, and amethyst (purple) is believed to enhance clarity of thought. Malas can also be made of metal, shell, or other materials that can be inscribed or painted with words, symbols, and mantras.
 
 Here are three of my malas and their symbolism properties.

 Labradorite Mala                                    Bone Mala ~ India
Self- Reliance & Personal Faith           Encouraging Compassion 

Brown Tagua Mala. Made of Tagua plant nut. Made in Ecuador. These organic mala beads are a great way for you to be mindful of the environment while you meditate. Tagua, also known as “Vegetable Ivory” or “Green Ivory” is a type of hard nut found in the fruit pods of the Tagua palm tree.

Casey Shannon
Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Sociey

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部:Ms. Casey Shannon アメリカ現代水墨画家
Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved


 
凱西香儂齋


 

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