It snowed a little today

This afternoon as I was looking out from my studio window I noticed snow flakes mixing with the rain. After last year's 100+ inches my enthusiasm is greatly diminished. Perhaps it's a combination of the abrupt shift of seasons along with the shorter daylight that triggers my downward mood. The elation that I felt on Tuesday evening as the election results were made available is now tempered by the financial reality that faces us all. An email arrived today alerting me to the fact that a proposal to eliminate funding for all public art projects and maintance for existing public art in the city will be voted on next week at the Madison Common Council meeting.
Art is necessary for a civilized society and a livable city. The artists who dedicate their lives to producing their artwork should be considered valued members who make lasting contributions that enrich the lives of all citizens. Unfortunately, that's not what is happening here when funding is allocated to support a building for the arts, but support for the artists is cut. It's very short sighted thinking that I hope will not prevail.

To lift my spirits I'll wrap up in a down comforter and imagine that I'm back in that very sunny day when I photographed the meadow garden.

22nd Artful Women Show/Sale

This morning I dropped off my entry in the twenty-second Artful Women's show that is sponsored by the Wisconsin's Women's Network. This multi-media exhibit/sale is shown in the Skylight Lounge Gallery at University Hospital, 600 Highland Avenue in Madison. The show runs from November 2nd through December 5th and is available for viewing from 7 AM to 9 PM every day. The Artist's Reception in on Sunday, November 16 from 3 to 5 in the Skylight Lounge.
I've been in all but the first of these yearly shows that promote the work of women in the Dane County area and also benefits the Wisconsin Women's Network through sales. The Network is a nonprofit coalition of organizations and individuals that works to improve the status of women in Wisconsin. It's a good show to exhibit in and I'm pleased to support the sponsoring organization.