So, what does an artist do for inspiration on vacation when she is 4600 miles from her studio and supplies, and preparing for two shows? Make the best of your situation. After getting reacquainted with family, putting my kiddos on a bus to summer camp, relaxing poolside, and sipping wine with childhood friends, I found time to explore. St. Louis never lets me down.
Before my kids left for summer camp, and at my insistance, my Dad and I took them to a show at the Contemporary Art Museum called “Occupational Therapy.” Needless to say, after this visit, my Dad and my kids think artists are totally nuts.
A few nights later, I explored the Chinese Lantern Festival at the Missouri Botanical Gardens. Vibrant yards of silk are stretched over thin metal frames, which were created on location by Chinese artisans. The lanterns are beautiful by daylight and radiant at night! Here, I get a wild idea that I should paint some lanterns for my show at the Vogelweh library this fall… And for my St. Louis friends, these lanterns are all for sale at the end of the show. If you can fit one in your yard! 
The next day entailed a stop to a unique bookstore called The Book House in Maplewood. Maplewood is such a groovy little area. Loved this paper scuplted bookshelf that was out front. Inside, I found an amazing 1930’s travel guide to Europe with beautiful pullout maps. It was 65 bucks, so I didn’t buy it. I am scared that I will tear out the old maps and incorporate them into my work! So I bought some cheap maps for my work instead. But I can’t get that book off my mind. Sigh.
An afternoon visit to the Kirkwood Farmer’s Market reminds me of the fabulous European farmer’s markets. Fresh produce, bright colors, great smells, fun for all of the senses. It also reminded me of Olivia’s garden at home and how great it is to grow vegetables in our yard and bring them straight to the kitchen for dinner. But…I bought cookies…Gooey Butter Cookies. It’s a St. Louis thing and they were delicious.
I never visit St. Louis without a trip to the St. Louis Art Museum. This stunning building was left from the 1904 World’s Fair. From mummies to Monet, the museum has a diverse collection, well representing our world. I discovered some ancient Spanish ceiling tiles that will be reflected in my sun sign series this fall. What really inspired me? The crowd! So many families and couples were visiting on a Sunday morning. Overhearing conversations and criticisms on art is always entertaining (hilarious!), too!
It really doesn’t matter where you are. Regardless of what project you might be in the middle of, whether at work or at home. Inspiration is out there. I gathered ideas from my explorations that I can’t wait to get back to my studio and put them into work. Sometimes, it’s the little things in life that have an impact. Thanks, St. Louis!