Wirrly Works

The Sun Sets

2012-01-08T09:47:00.000-05:00

The Setting Sun by George Gabin (image source: Chase young Gallery)

Last night the sun set with out you in the world.

Your warmth and glow inspired the lives you touched

The colors of your light left behind

on canvas and in our hearts

carry on to share a vision

to a new generation of hopeful dreamers

Thank you George for all that you gave to the world.

An artist, a teacher, a friend, a mentor.

Much Love and Affection,

Cindy

stART on the Street 2011

2011-09-19T16:13:00.001-04:00

stART on the Street 2011, a set on Flickr.

Pictures from the 9th edition of the festival, it just keeps growing and growing. 200+ booths of artists and crafters and 50,000 + attendees.

A Rainy Spring

2011-09-17T11:18:00.001-04:00

A Rainy Spring, a photo by CindyWoehrle on Flickr.

An Art Sale is always good news in my book!
A Rainy Spring was painted for the 12x12 exhibit at the Provincetown Art Association and Museum and sold at auction for 5x it's listed value!
Now that is some good news for this artist.

PechaKucha Worcester Vol. 6

2010-09-20T15:40:00.001-04:00

Pecha Kucha Night Worcester is taking over the stage at the Hanover Theatre. When's the last time YOU had a chance to be on the stage of a world class venue?
Join us September 26th as we all gather on the stage for a night of creative chit chat.
Doors open at 7:20 pm
Presentations start at 8:20 pm
learn more about all the goings on here:
www.pechakucha-worcester.blogspot.com

This event is sponsored by ARTSWorcester and The Hanover Theatre.
PechaKucha Night is devised and copyrighted by Klein Dytham Architecture

PechaKucha Worcester Vol. 6

2010-09-01T08:47:00.000-04:00

September 26, 2010
at the Hanover Theatre
rsvp today at:
http://pkworcester.eventsbot.com/

Sponsored in part by ARTSWorcester and the Hanover Theatre
Created and shared by Klein Dytham Architecture

PechaKucha Night FAQ # 9 of 20

09. What makes a good PechaKucha?
Good PechaKucha presentation are the ones that uncover the unexpected, unexpected talent, unexpected ideas. Some PechaKuchas tell great stories about a project or a trip. Some are incredibly personal, some are incredibly funny, but all are very different making each PechaKucha Night like 'a box of chocolates'.

"Her Dog Still Loved Her" on display at "New Again"

2010-03-05T13:28:00.003-05:00

Her Dog Still Loved Her
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

I will be displaying this image at the upcoming "New Again" exhibit at ArtsWorcester.

RSVP on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=367817051873&ref=nf

Friday, March 19, 2010 at 6:00pm
Aurora Gallery
660 Main St.
Worcester, MA

Artist Reception: Friday, March 19, 2010 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at ARTSWorcester's Aurora Gallery 660 Main Street, Worcester, MA. Snow date for the reception will be scheduled for Saturday, March 20, 2010 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. This event is free and open to the public and features refreshments and music.

"New Again" is an ARTSWorcester member exhibition exploring found materials and the notion of identity re-designation by transforming commonplace objects into works of art. "New Again" challenges artists to appropriate natural, recycled, and found materials and place them within a new, exciting, and engaging context. Artists will provide these objects with new meaning beyond their originally intended function and illustrate how perception can shift when the framwork surrounding an everyday item is changed.

ARTSWorcester Aurora Gallery hours: Tuesdays and Saturdays 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Extended hours are available by appointment. Gallery is closed Sunday and Monday. Free and open to the public.

An Important Message from Cameron Sinclair

2010-02-14T12:37:00.002-05:00

A Message from Cameron Sinclair

February 14th, 2010

We include here a message from Architecture for Humanity founder Cameron Sinclair that should give everyone a better idea of what the “Global PechaKucha Day for Haiti” event really means, what’s at stake, and how you can participate.

Haiti Fatigue.
It’s a phrase we will begin to hear over the next few weeks. The fact is more people died in Haiti than in the 12 countries affected by the ‘04 Tsunami. Oh, and rainy season begins in 8 days. So this natural disaster IS a big deal and it’s going to get rough.
We are not the first responders, we’re the last responders and we’re in for the long haul. We estimate having teams in Haiti for 4 years but we will only do that with the financial support of others. Thanks to the amazing Mark Dytham and Astrid Klein we’re going to change that.
We are one week away from launching Pecha Kucha for Haiti – the worlds largest distributed conference. This will be a 24 hour Pecha Kucha (20×20 style) in more than 100 cities – with 2000 presentations. 100% of all donations/proceeds will go towards building schools and community centers in Haiti.
I’d love it if you got involved in some way.
We are looking for a few more (local) speakers?
With more than 100 cities participating there is no need to fly, no dodgy hotel to overnight in and no lost luggage. We’re making all speakers local. You live in NYC, then speak in NYC, If you are in Zilina, Czech – sorry it’s full! | Can’t find your city and are very ambitious? – email Mark Dytham ( mark@klein-dytham.com ) and host one.
*personally after doing DLD, Davos and TED, I’m excited by a conference that doesn’t require 1000+ to fly from one corner of the earth to another. Could this be the future of conferences?
What does a presentation look like?
Maori, The culture of my land
Made in Deptford
The Story So Far (about PK)
Duct Tape Type Face
We are looking for ‘virtual’ presentations?
So you are busy, we understand. Mark and Astrid have a cunning plan. Thanks to sponsors Ustream and Rackspace we can pre-record a presentation and we can show it as we move around the world. Brian LeBarton (Beck) & Francesco Valentino just composed one – music only.
Spare 400 or 20 seconds?
You can be brave and do a full 20×20 (20 slides x 20 seconds = 6 min 40 sec) OR if you are really, really busy – just contribute 20 seconds of audio (and we’ll put in a slide). You can just say something like ‘I’m TKTK and do TKTK. I care about creating a sustainable and economically sound future for Haiti. Let’s Build Back Better with Architecture for Humanity.’
OK, what about someone else’s time?
You all know famous designers, engineers, musicians, artists and other creative spirits. Even celebrities. Admit it. Heck, NYC has Florian Idenburg, Gregg Pasquarelli, Craig Dykers and Iwan Baan to name a few – all talking about what they know best. What’s your city got?
Why so serious?
Look it is our job to be serious. We are immensely fortunate to work alongside communities and build their hopes and dreams. The work isn’t depressing, it is awesome. If you want to present, please be upbeat and speak on the sublime to the ridiculous. No one wants 24 hours of depressing visions, that’s called CNN. So seriously. Entertain, inspire and most importantly – be passionate.
To present email me and I’ll connect you to the right people. cameron@architectureforhumanity.org
To pre-record email Mark Dytham.mark@klein-dytham.com
To attend, show up and make a donation.
By the way this email took you 6 min 40 seconds to read. So you do have the time! (I kid)
Cheers,
Cameron
Chief Eternal Optimist @ Architecture for Humanity
848 Folsom Street, Suite 201, San Francisco, CA 94107-1173
W: 415 963 3511 | M: 646 765 0906
Architecture for Humanity is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that seeks architectural solutions to humanitarian crisis and brings professional design services to communities in need.
Haiti Reconstruction
Our blueprint for reconstruction
Students Rebuild
PechaKucha Global Day for Haiti – Feb 20th

Call to Artists: New Again

2010-02-01T13:25:00.000-05:00

New Again is an ARTSWorcester members show of artwork inspired by found objects.
Here's the call:
http://www.artsworcester.org/files/New_Again_Call_to_Artists_final.pdf

For New Again, ARTSWorcester members are invited to present intriguing and inconventional works of art created from, or inspired by found objects.
Space is available for installations on a first come first serve basis.
If the art is is inspired by but doesn't physically incorporate the found object members are invited to bring the object in to be exhibited with the art!

Also, let us know if the object has a story or where you found it.
For example:

Rain Drops and Wrinkles by Cynthia Woehrle

May 2007 Part of the "Pick It Up" project on Flickr

The street cleaners have come by and last nights rain carried any street trash to the sewer drain. But I still didn't have to go far to find something to "pick up" today. I found this bag in the back yard.

Wormtown Rocks! Juried Exhibit at WAM taking entries

2010-01-18T13:06:00.000-05:00

Any Worcester area photographers out there who've gotten some great shots of the Local Live Music Scene? This exhibit at the Worcester Art Museum is the perfect opportunity to show your work ! Intent to submit is due by March 10th.
Wormtown Rocks will be on display in the Higgins Wing during the upcoming WAM Exhibit Who Shot Rock and Roll

Pecha Kucha Night

2010-01-17T15:24:00.002-05:00

I've been pretty busy posting over on the Pecha Kucha Night Worcester Blog.

Click on over to see who's in the lineup!

http://pechakucha-worcester.blogspot.com/

Pecha Kucha Night Worcester Vol. 3 coming up in 7 days 3 hours and 57 minutes
At the Worcester Art Museum

PKN3 Poster

2010-01-07T12:26:00.002-05:00

PKN3 Poster
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

Pecha Kucha Worcester Vol 3 coming Jan 24th!

http://www.pecha-kucha.org/night/worcester/3

Green Hill Park

2009-12-07T13:06:00.001-05:00

Green Hill Park
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

Happy Monday! Today's featured painting for the Holiday sale is "Green Hill Park" 7"x7" oil on panel. This study for the larger "Sunset at green Hill Park" is framed in a replica renaissance frame.
List price $300
Available for $240 until Dec 18th 2009

Atmosphere #3

2009-11-30T14:29:00.001-05:00

Todays Feature Studio Artwork is Atmosphere #3.
Heres the story behind the painting:
1995 ~ around this time I started working on a concept of landscapes from memory. I would take mental notes of differant places that I had seen and combine them into one scene based completely on my memory. The primary elements I based this on was:
Feelings, Atmosphere and Spacial relationships.
This is one of my favorites
Museum Quality Giclee Print viewable area 12"x 6.25" listed price $60
Available for $48 through Dec 18th
email contact@cynthiawoehrle.com to make purchase arrangements

Shenandoah Study #1

2009-11-28T12:09:00.002-05:00

Shenandoah
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

Today's Feature "In Studio Painting" is Shenandoah Study #1. This painting is from a series of 11"x14" canvas studies of Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. I was lucky enough to drive through this amazing park at the same time a storm was breaking up, the views of the skies and valleys were truly amazing. Each study is done in oil and explores the fading blues and greens of the landscape with the shadows of the clouds that are passing overhead.
list price $300
Studio sale price $260
20% discount valid through Dec 18th
To purchase email contact@cynthiawoehrle.com

Holiday Studio Sale!

2009-11-25T00:12:00.000-05:00

Cynthia Woehrle's studio is hosting its first Holiday Sale! From Nov 27th through Dec 18th get 20% off all in studio artwork. Check out the website to see whats available, send the title and list price of the artwork to the studio email: contact@cynthiawoehrle.com
Shipping, delivery, or pickup

"Winter Solstice" at Notre Dame Academy

2009-11-06T19:59:00.002-05:00

"Rt 146 in January" will be on view in the gallery at Notre Dame Academy here in Worcester Ma along with other works being featured in the exhibit "Winter Solstice" running Dec 6th through January 10th at the Flagg Gallery in the new arts wing at Notre Dame on Salisbury St in Worcester.

The John and Virginia Flagg Gallery will be open to the public
Sunday, December 6 and January 10 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
and weekdays between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.

425 Salisbury Street, Worcester MA 01609

Phone: 508-757-6200

Here's a look at the painting while it was still on my easel.

"Rt. 146 in January" is listed at $400 framed and is for sale.

Cirque Du Noir, Fire and Ice

2009-10-23T11:43:00.004-04:00

I'm participating in TWO more fundraisers this month. 1st Cirque Du Noir and then Fire and Ice.

Cirque is happening this Sunday Oct 25th and proceeds benefit the Worcester County Food Bank. It's a creative black costume party last year was a fabulous Halloween inspired event! so much fun! I will be participating in the LIVE ART FUSION with great local talents, Scott Boilard, Derek Ring, Payal Kripini, Jessica Burhans and more!
http://www.cirquedunoir.org/ Thank you to Michelle May, Andreea Waters and Bocado for hosting this creative, fun and inspired event.

Then on Oct 30th: Fire and Ice! It's ArtsWorcester's annual fund raising Gala and ALL the proceeds go towards the operations of the gallery so they in turn can continue to support over 400 artist members that live in Worcester County.
Event Info
It's and Art sale and Auction and I am donating this brand new work:
Turning to Go Red (detail)

Drawing Master: Odilon Redon

2009-10-15T11:17:00.004-04:00

While prepping for the Live Art Fusion at this years Cirque du Noir I am reminded of one of my absolute favorite artists: Symbolist painter Odilon Redon.
Check out his amazing work in charcoal and pastel. His artwork drops my jaw and my heart all the way to the floor! His technique with tone and color has always been something I've aspired to emulate. Its my opinion that he is one of the most over looked artists from the turn of the 20th century. So, if you are participating in Slow Art at the Worcester Art Museum be sure to take a look at the Odilon Redon in their permanent collection.
Until then enjoy these highlights I found online:

Art, Fun, Fundraising and Halloween

2009-10-03T13:34:00.005-04:00

There's a ton of artsy happenings around Worcester this month that will give you the chance to dress up, dress down, buy art, get creative, laugh, watch and enjoy!!

and if you're looking for Halloween costume ideas, follow Festival Creative for lots of inspired imagery.

Mr Smartass Theatre Show Oct 7th at The Lucky Dog
Wodehouse Day Oct 15th 1920's style cocktail party
Slow Art Oct 17th Worcester Art Museum
Arts in the Afternoon Oct 18th benefits the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester
Cirque Du Noir Oct 25th at Bocado benefits Worcester County Food Bank Art Auction and LIVE Art Fusion, Black Costume Party!
Fire and Ice Oct 30th annual ArtsWorcester Fund-raising Gala and Art Auction
Hybrid Movement Co McNally's Fate Oct 31st at the Hanover Theater benefits the Massachusetts School Teachers Association- Aerial Acrobatics, Beauty and strength with breathtaking artistry.

Pecha Kucha Vol.2 recap

2009-10-01T12:12:00.001-04:00

Keith Cross of Milkrow Studio produced this voice over version of his Pecha Kucha Night Vol. 2 topic "Learning Letterpress". Modern digital design students may find the process of letterpress limiting but Keith encourages everyone to see the liberation letterpress can have:

Stay tuned for LIVE Pecha Kucha Worcester Videos on our youtube group.
PKN Vol. 2 pictures by Michelle May, Rich Beaubien and Donna Dufault Flickr group.

About 100 people came out on Sunday Sept 14th for Pecha Kucha Night Worcester Vol. 2. The evening was filled with laughs and enthusiasm from the crowd as they reacted to presenters Dr Gonzo and Jeffu Warmouth, quiet admiration for Lennie Peterson and Trisha Barry's work and thought provoking presentations from Michael Gennert, Jeff Baker, Ian Hickey and Keith Cross. It proved to be another fun night of diverse topics and inspiration!

Special Thanks goes out to:
Ian Hickey at 55 Pearl for feeding everyone his amazing creations that were based on his presentation "The Creative Process of Cooking"
Joe Madaus for providing video documentation for all the presenters.
Jeff Baker for making the projections possible.
Al Dancy, Donna Dufault for being our go-to volunteers.
Scott Boilard for creating beautiful presenter gifts

We had a blast and are looking forward to Vol.3 on Jan 24th 2010!

Jeff Warmouth, J Stuart Esty and Ian Hickey, Pecha Kucha Presenters

2009-09-09T12:03:00.003-04:00

{Image © Jeff Warmouth}

Presenter Jeff Warmouth

Bio:

Jeffu Warmouth is a photo-based contemporary artist who has managed to make a career out of playing with his food. His work incorporates photography, video, objects, and installations, and uses jokes and comic twists to subvert logic, language, identity, and culture.

Jeffu has exhibited in alternative spaces and museums, including the DeCordova Museum, the Boston Center for the Arts, and Art Interactive in Cambridge. His award-winning film/video work has screened in festivals internationally. He received his MFA from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and heads the Interactive Multimedia program at Fitchburg State College.

Presenter J. Stuart Esty

Owner of Dr Gonzo's Uncommon Condiments, J Stuart Esty is passionate about community and jalepenos. His creative and "uncommon" ways of getting his message out through social media certainly attracts attention! Read on...

Bio:

What led this inventor of the (seen on TV) "Jiffy Home Lobotomy Kit": just insert the stainless steel icepick behind your ear and stir in a circular motion until all your problems and worries disappear..., proud founder of Spruce Up Yours Landscaping International LLC, this high powered Washington lobbyist, tirelessly fighting for our rights to carry concealed Kazoos, this former lead accordion player of a Maraca Rock and Roll Revue (until he was exiled from Columbia after an alleged affair with Juan Valdez's burro), to dabble in the world of spicy comestibles? Maybe we'll never know the reason for his shift in focus. All we can hope for is that he will continue to weave delicate textures, tastes and heat profiles in an effort to liberate us all from a world burdened by Bland.

Now, contrary to popular opinion, this iteration of Dr. GONZO is not (and never has been) a 300lb Samoan attorney. He is (and will continue to be) the traveling professor of Advanced Mixology and Arcane Aviation Physics at Hardknock University. Home of the Fighting Black and Blue Humping Lumper Marching Band; that not only carries the instruments in tight formation across the rugby pitch, they also carry the people that play the instruments in tight formation across the rugby pitch, and the (oh, so hard to get on) Intramural Cross Country Pruning Shear Relay Team, where we take running with scissors to the next level...

Stay tuned to YouTube's DrGonzosCondiments channel for behind the scenes footage of Dr. GONZO's 'Secret' Underground lab, Xtreme Grilling Team and early failed high volume production experiments of our "World Famous" Peppermash. Yes, sometimes the best humor involves the failings of another so, have a giggle at our expense.

J. Stuart Esty can be found loitering in and or around Dr. GONZO's All Natural MEGA Spicy Comestible EMPORIUM at 122 Main St. (located in the heart of the hysterical courthouse district) in Worcester, MA (the cultural Mecca of Central Mass).

Presenter Ian Hickey

Chef Ian Hickey is presenting on Creative Processes of Cooking, He continually challenges himself to create a tilt on modern American Cuisine. I recently had the opportunity to hear his thoughts on this topic and was fascinated by the process behind building a menu and the challenges in balancing innovation with accessibility. I can't wait to hear more about the art that goes into cooking!

Join us on Sept 13th 2009 at 55 Pearl Worcester Ma doors open at 7:20.
Featuring presentations by:
Jeff Baker
Trisha Barry
Keith Cross
J Stu Esty
Michael Gennert
Ian Hickey
Lennie Peterson
Jeff Warmouth
read more information about all these creative minds at:
http://pechakucha-worcester.blogspot.com/

Artist Profile Trisha Barry. PKN Vol. 2 Presenter

2009-08-28T10:02:00.006-04:00

I met Trisha Barry about a year ago, as she was finishing up a photography project in Gardener, she told me that she tells stories through her photographs. The project in Gardener had intrigued her because one of the oldest furniture manufacturers in the country was closing up shop, laying off all the workers,and going out of business. She got into the factory and documented everything, talking to the workers, watching them at their craft seeing them leave on their final days, and as I heard her tell this story I too became intrigued. What other stories did she tell? A year with a farmer, six months at sea with a fisherman.

Trisha Barry tells stories through photographs, and as I type this blog I realize I can not tell her stories better than her. So here is a clip from the story she will share for Pecha Kucha Night on Sept 13th.

TWELVE MONTHS WITH A NEW ENGLAND FARMER

"It was the first snow fall of the winter that took me to the country roads of Warwick, MA to photograph. It was the old farm equipment all strewn about covered with snow, the unusual old barn, and what looked like discarded possessions everywhere that made me stop. Out of nowhere, a man appeared. He had piercing blue eyes, a white beard, and a worn hat with old nails, one on each side turning the brim up. He was dressed in farmer jeans and a flannel shirt. An instantaneous connection was made. I knew at the very moment I met him, there were a story to be told, and a friend to be made. His name was Ken Hubbard.
My curiosity led me to go back repeatedly and learn more. Discovering more with each visit, realizing as much character I saw in his face he had in his soul. Everything had a purpose, a history, and nothing was thrown away..."

photo courtesy of Trisha Barry. © All Rights Reserved

Artist Bio
Fine art photographer Trisha Barry focuses on people. Her photographic essays are less about portraits of people but more about portraits of life. She states...“Everything and everybody has a history and a story, and my passion has led me to telling these stories, these “life portraits”, artistic documentations of people and life, images that preserve that moment in time, that “disappearing presence.” Motivating intuition that inspires meaning is the driving force behind her work.
Graduating from Mass College of Art with a degree in Fibers her early years were spent exploring the possibilities beyond the loom with different fibers creating sculptural pieces and vessels.
After graduating from college she began working with mixed media pieces incorporating her photographs creating visual stories with her viewers. It was then she realized she was leaning toward the photographic medium as a fine art.
Initially working with film in black and white she began showing her work and earning recognition. Her work involves exploring the life's of people. Always wanting to know more about her subject she spends time with them developing a more personal approach to her storytelling.
“Trisha ability to look beneath the surface creates powerful visual dialogues that find true meaning in the simple things. Her photography is like beautiful poetry capturing pieces of vanishing America “,,, Fred Martins creative director of Tiziani Whitmyre.

Pecha Kucha Night Worcester Vol. 2

2009-08-25T08:32:00.003-04:00

Pecha Kucha Night Worcester Vol. 2 at 55 Pearl Sunday Sept 13th 2009 in the GAR Hall.

Join us for an evening of creative chit-chat set in the historic Bull Mansion.

Recognized by the National Registry of Historic Places the Bull Mansion is know for its high Victorian Architecture. Innovation meets history at this restaurant where Chef Ian Hickey redefines New England cuisine. Pecha Kucha Night is taking over the mansions GAR Hall to present 8 speakers sharing their own passion, ideas and innovation.

The Pecha Kucha format has spread globally, and is hosted in over 226 cities worldwide. Come see what all the chit- chat is about.

http://www.pecha-kucha.org/cities/worcester

Making Music and Art

2009-08-13T14:16:00.007-04:00

Musician and Artist Lennie Peterson is passionate about the marriage of Music and Visual Art. He's agreed to present at Pecha Kucha Night Worcester Vol. 2 to share his passion and insight about the spontaneous, improvised creation within the relationship of Music and Visual Art.
He also shared this concept recently with friend Kaki King, wow-ing her with the idea of painting a guitar with her music....using the action of strumming to mark the guitar. This idea took seed and grew into Kaki King "The Exhibition". Ovation donated 12 guitars to be turned into art by 12 artists with a 13th guitar painted live at the exhibit and auctioned off to benefit VH1's Save The Music.

Using the same guitar that she played "Pink Noise" on The David Letterman Show, she dipped her hands into pink acrylic paint and strummed out Pink Noise on stage at the exhibit (admitting that she would have to play Karaoke style because the sound will change as soon as the paint hits the guitar strings)
Thus creating Pink Noise The Guitar. This guitar hasn't gone up for auction yet so stay tuned for where and when to bid. Until then check out these photos from the show.

A note about Sushi

2009-07-27T13:01:00.003-04:00

The Zen of Fish is on my summer reading list, me being a sushi lover (and former sushi slinger) am finding the book very informative. Most Americans find sushi etiquette confusing ( and intimidating!) and think that most sushi they eat is the same as in Japan. Here's a passage from The Zen of Fish by Trevor Corson that offers some insight

"Jay was American, but his ancestors were Japanese. As he'd learned more about sushi, he'd become worried about the state of sushi in the United States. He would sit at a sushi bar and see people stirring globs of green wasabi paste into their soy sauce to make a thick gray goo. They'd slather their fish with the goo, eat it and exclaim "Oh, that's such good fish!' Jay himself used to do the same thing.
But now Jay knew that this behavior was distressing to the chef. Wasabi is a type of horseradish, and in the quantities required to make that thick gray goo, the spiciness of wasabi overwhelms the human capacity for taste and smell. The chef might have risen at 4:30 that morning to go to the fish market and haggle over the best fish, only to see his customers slather it with wasabi so they couldn't even taste it. Jay believed chefs were becoming disillusioned and customers were missing out. Americans liked food that was hot and spicy, but there was so much more to sushi than that.
Jay learned that in Japan, sushi chefs might put a touch of wasabi inside nigiri, using a larger dab of wasabi with fatty fish, and a smaller one with lean. But they never served extra wasabi on the side. They would serve a pinch on the side with sashimi-plain raw fish, without rice. But diners certainly weren't supposed to mix the wasabi into their soy sauce and apply it indiscriminately.
Another thing Jay noticed was people gobbing up the pickled ginger as an appetizer. But the point of the ginger was to cleanse the palate between servings of different kinds of fish. Not eating a slice of ginger between each type of fish, jay felt, was like mixing 5 different wines and trying to taste the Chardonnay.
He'd also see diners dunk the rice side of their nigiri in the soy sauce, instead of the fish side. Or they would eat the nigiri in two bites instead of one. Or they would force themselves to use chopsticks, when in fact most Japanese people just use their fingers to eat sushi.
Jay noticed too,that people automatically assumed sushi was good for them. But in the United States, the most popular form of sushi was big sushi rolls, loaded with carbs, sugar, fat and sodium. A sushi take out box in an American supermarket could easily contain as many calories as two slices f pizza, and the rolls served in restaurants are often worse."

Keep that in mind next time you order that deep fried roll served in peanut sauce!

Sculptures arrive at Art in the Park

2009-07-24T08:47:00.000-04:00

PKN Worcester #1 Sentiment

2009-06-15T14:55:00.003-04:00

Here's my mushy sensitive side for your reading pleasure:

Thank you to everyone who came out for this!
I am very proud of each of the presenters for their thoughtful, insightful, and funny takes about what they do.
I enjoyed the perspective of the evening from the front of the room and even though I had to be bop in and out I was able to really take in the entire vibe. What was very satisfying to me was while listening to the presenters I could see the captivated faces looking up at them:
Cheering on the presenters for their accomplishments.
Laughing along with them over Odd Noggins, Creature Double Feature, and Toilets with water fountains.
In awed of Adoniram's black and white photography and the quiet inspiration in his philosophy.
Being Fired up during the break
Eveyones smiles as they were leaving
Not only did the presenters knock this event out of the park but the audience did too! Thank you for being so great!
Afterward, as I pulled into my driveway I realized that this is what I have been looking for for a long time, what I have truly been missing in my community. A forum were people can relax, enjoy, share ideas and get inspired. For this to happen in my community I am extremely grateful.
~Cynthia Woehrle

The community bulletin board for PKN #1

and some pics that Michelle May took

This week around the world!

2009-06-08T08:49:00.002-04:00

(image source from PKN Fresno)

PechaKucha Night happens all around the world, here's a look at the ideas being shared in this week:
Matt Grisby in Providence explores green materials
Scott Willis in Dunedin talks about the Waitati Energy Project
Jiewa says Life is Delicious at Surabaya #1
Mauro Massarotto/Sheriff&Cherry Studio in Zagreb #3 offer up some very colorful design

Upcoming City Events

* 8 June 2009 Fresno #3
* 9 June 2009 Cape Town #6
* 9 June 2009 Wellington #5
* 10 June 2009 Providence #4
* 10 June 2009 Dunedin #2
* 11 June 2009 Los Angeles #20
* 11 June 2009 Aarhus #2
* 11 June 2009 Zagreb #3
* 11 June 2009 Dawson City #2
* 12 June 2009 Oulu #5
* 13 June 2009 Surabaya #1
* 14 June 2009 Worcester #1
* 14 June 2009 Halifax #2

Worcester #1 is 6 days away! Will you be joining us?

Worcester calling Tokyo

2009-06-04T06:48:00.004-04:00

Last week I received a request to submit a 20 second video saying HELLO to Pecha Kucha Night Tokyo #62.
The world wide event hit a few mile stones last week. Hitting the 200 mark for participating cities and hitting a record turn out for #62 in Tokyo. My greeting from Worcester Ma was played to a packed room of 443 people at SuperDeluxe ( an arts events venue owned by the Pecha Kucha founders Klein Dytham Architecture). As the organization continues to grow the founders help keep everyone connected through introducing new cities at the beginning of their events, posting samples of the worldwide events on the headquarters blog. Posting videos of presentations and linking every city on their mainpage.

Here is a sample presentation from Tokyo #62 given by Mark Cooke

Pecha Kucha Night also got a write up in Culture Magazine you can read it here online on pages 54 and 55.

Very Busy Week!
and did I mention Pecha Kucha Night is non profit? Everyone involved has a day job and is passionate about the Pecha Kucha format for sharing ideas and creativity.

Worcester #1 is coming up quick!
June 14th Bocado Tapas Bar 7:20

Local art goes hand in hand with local business

2009-06-01T12:10:00.006-04:00

The Futon Company on Highland Street is a great spot to find unique, hip and contemporary items to decorate your home. Known for their selection of high quality futons they also carry lighting, jewelry, candles and artwork. One favorite item I saw there recently was bowling pin lights. You set them on the floor and knock them over to turn them off!

The Futon Co hosts local artists in the shop too with monthly featured artists on the walls, original paintings, custom woodworking, books, handmade jewelry and prints. I give big kudos to owner Elizabeth Hughes for continually supporting local artists through her business.

This month you can find abstracts by Randy LeSage and Patti Kelly on the walls. Brian Burris's book Codex: Fragments & Schemata, a few Scott Boilard paintings...
AND you can find me there too! My prints are one of the newest items to hit the racks. Available as of today; June 1st.

Its likely that the Futon Co has the largest variety of locally handmade items in Worcester. Conveniently open 7 days a week; so go check it out!

Futon Company
129 Highland Street
Worcester, MA 01609
(508) 831-7170

Pecha Kucha Night Presenters

2009-05-25T13:26:00.001-04:00

Pecha Kucha Worcester

2009-05-14T15:08:00.002-04:00

Creative minds live
Room buzzing with energy
power of 20

that's my Pecha Kucha Haiku.

What is Pecha Kucha?
Its a living breathing social network with creative minds sharing ideas lighting up a room with images of inspiration, talking about their passions and art...

Pecha Kucha is an electric charge bouncing through a room stimulating the senses

Come join the conversation. June 14th Bocado

PKN Worcester

Heartfelt gesture...in honor of my friends

2009-04-23T22:48:00.005-04:00

I introduced new prints last night at my studio, surrounded by my closest friends supporters and collectors. Despite the pouring rain, it proved to be a perfect evening for creative talk about projects, processes, marketing and inspiration. I am grateful to everyone for their kind support that has left me feeling excited and motivated about future projects. These vital, talented and creative people have inspired me to share the story of this painting with a broader audience.

The story of Atmosphere #1, #2 and #3

There are three paintings from the beginning of my art career that mean more to me than I can express. They were the start of what would turn into an ongoing exploration of mood and light through the expression of paint. They also kicked off my interest in alternative formats, circles, triangles, and arches. Architecture incorporated into an art piece that is beyond a canvas in a frame.
These three paintings remind of where I came from, where inspiration was born, what my ideals are, what I can be capable of… For these reasons they are permanently in “the Artists Collection”. Since the day they were completed I’ve had to continually turn down offers to purchase the works because I will not part with them.

Atmosphere #2 is the first of these three works to be made into a museum quality giclee print. The first edition run is valued at $60 each; I launched them at a special price of $45 available at the event only. But I was so touched by the warmth and support of those who attended my opening (some of whom traveled in the pouring rain from across Ma and RI) that I have decided to extend the launching price.

Please contact me by email before the end of April to take advantage of this extended offer.

I am very excited to share my love of this painting and would be pleased for it to have a place in your home as well as mine.

~Cindy

contact@cynthiawoehrle.com

An evening in the studio

2009-04-02T09:30:00.002-04:00

Open Studio Update!

2009-03-27T12:16:00.002-04:00

The Studios at Webster street will be combining their efforts on the same night..so cancel April 3rd on your calender and Highlight April 17th instead.
Brain Burris 4-8
Jonathan Lucas 5-8
75 Webster Street Worcester Ma
Open House info

April is Open Studio Month in Worcester

2009-03-26T12:24:00.005-04:00

April is Open Studio Month in Worcester Ma.....at least unofficially. There are several artists all planning to open there doors to the public during the month of April.
Heres a run down of whats happening

April 3rd 3pm-7pm Brian Burris
Studio Open House

Details:
" ArtsWorcester occasionally sponsors studio open houses of their member's studios, as an opportunity to
not only see a collection of the artist's works, but to meet the artist in their creative element. Hors d'oeuvres and wine will be served, although if wine is not to your liking, you're welcome to bring what you will. It is very informal.
I name everything, the privilege given Adam has a special draw. This showing named Unrepentant, in part from the title of one of my recent works--Portrait of the Devil Unrepentant. There will be three or four new works
not previously shown on display for the event.
My door will open at 3 pm and we'll wrap at 7. Look forward to seeing everyone, if anyone shows up...
otherwise, I'll at least get lost in another Bacchanalian painting session."
BKB
Directions:
I always found MapQuest to be great for street maps, if you need directions to find 75 Webster St. The studio is at 75 Webster St/6 Jacques St (It's an old industrial building, takes up the entire city block).
If you are looking at 75 Webster from the front, Jacques St is on the right of the building. As soon as you turn onto Jacques, park--there's a loading dock right there, above the door, a sign--6 Jacques.
Go in that door, follow the hall to the stairs, past the humming transformers, go up to the second floor, go left after you go through the heavy iron-clad fire door, left again down the hall: the door for my studio is 3rd
down on the right, marked 'BURRISworks'.

April 17th 5pm-8pm Jonathan Lucas
and
75 Webs

Description

Studio of Jonathan Lucas

75 Webster Street 3rd floor
Worcester MA

Art Show!

There will be numerous sculptural/photographic works on display -- including my latest piece, which has been two years in the making. Most of the works are large-scale.

Rose Russell will also have her photographic studio open to the public.

All are welcome! Bring friends!
There will be free food, drink, and merriment to be had!
Located on the 3rd floor of 75 Webster Street, the studios are in one of Worcester's old mill buildings. There is parking on both sides of the building and the upper-lot across the street.

April 22 5pm-8pm Cynthia Woehrle

Yup I am also having an open studio this April. I will be featuring a few new figurative paintings as well as the release of a new giclee print. I am still working out all the details but I am looking to make my prints as affordable as possible for the masses but still maintain a high standard of quality.

Unlike Brian and Jonathan my studio is not in a building open to the public, so if you are interested in attending just shoot me an email and I'll get an invitation to you.
contact@cynthiawoehrle.com

Womans Authors Event

2009-03-17T16:33:00.004-04:00

A Woman's Author Event to benefit the YWCA’ s Daybreak program, serving victims of domestic violence in Central Massachusetts.

Social Reception 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Cash Bar
Meet the Authors 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Women writers that inspire.

Please join other readers, writers, authors, and friends at an intimate gathering of women authors as they read from their work and answer your questions. Readings and Book signings by Suzanne Strempek Shea followed by Kate Jacobs.

Suzanne Strempek Shea
Winner of the 2000 New England Book Award. Author of Sundays
in America, Selling the Lite of Heaven and Songs from a Lead-Lined
Room: Notes-High and Low-from My Journey through Breast Cancer
and Radiation.

Kate Jacobs
New York Times bestselling author of Friday Night Knitting Club which is in production and stars Julia Roberts. A absolutely beautiful, deeply moving portrait of female friendship. You’ll laugh and cry along with these characters.

The evening is featuring delicious tastings from Two Sisters and the Silver Spoon, a cookbook written by local sisters Kathy Israelian-Fleming and Nancy Israelian-Doyle.

Artwork on display by artists featured in Twenty Artists of Worcester and Their Workspace. Photography by Scott Erb; Written by Julie Grady. Artists include Cynthia Woehrle, painter; Agnes Wyant, painter; Erika Sidor, photographer; Susan Swinand, painter; Veronica Hebard, illustrator; and Rosalie Olds, sculptor.

Monday, April 27, 2009 - 5:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Alden Hall, WPI Corner of Institute Road and West Street
$25 per Guest $15 Seniors $15 Students with ID

Reservations Required
To register via email: events@ywcaworcester.org
To register via phone: 508-791-3181 ext. 3049

A call to artists

2009-03-12T11:53:00.001-04:00

Second Annual
Art in the Park
Juried Sculpture Exhibition
Elm Park, Worcester, MA

Release Date: Wednesday, February 20, 2009

CALL FOR ENTRIES
Deadline: Friday, May 8, 2009
Eligibility: Open to New England artists.

Building on the momentum from last years popular exhibition, The Worcester Cultural Commission invites artists to forward a selection of up to three existing sculptures or installations for a juried outdoor exhibition in Elm Park, Worcester from July 27 – September 31, 2009. Artists are encouraged to enter particularly large-scale work for installation on the grounds, floating in one of its three shallow ponds, or suspended from trees. A well loved public space, durability is a major consideration in the selection of artwork. 20 selected pieces will be featured in the exhibition. Artists may offer works for sale.

The project is sponsored by the Worcester Cultural Commission, ArtsWorcester, and the City of Worcester and its Department of Parks and Public Works, with partial funding from the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Prizes and Honoraria:

Three Prizes of Excellence will be awarded for best works: $2,000 first prize, $1,000 second prize, and $500 third prize. All exhibiting artists will receive a $300 stipend from the Worcester Cultural Council to cover the cost of transportation and installation. Artists may offer works for sale. Sales are not subject to commission, but organizers ask for a tax-deductible 10% contribution to Park Spirit, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that funds cultural programming in the City of Worcester.

Jurors:

ELLEN DRISCOLL is the head of the sculpture department at Rhode Island School of Design. Public art projects include banner projects at the new Grand Central Terminal in New York and Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston. Recent projects include Turnscope, an interactive sculpture at the Green Street transit station in Boston, and Meanderlink, an airplane banner flown over the Boston Park system on summer weekends. Driscoll has been awarded fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Anonymous Was a Woman, Harvard University’s Bunting Institute, Massachusetts Cultural Council, and New York Foundation for the Arts. Her work is included in major private and public collections such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Whitney Museum of Art.

MICHAEL HACHEY is a native of the Worcester area and has been an artist and studio teacher for over thirty years. Hachey has had numerous solo exhibitions, and his artwork in the collections of the Worcester Art Museum and the City of Cambridge in addition to private collections. Hachey is a recipient of fellowships from the Massachusetts Artists Foundation, and National Endowment for the Arts/New England Foundation for the Arts. His artwork has evolved from miniature architectural fantasies to on-site installations of sculpture with mural-size drawing of chalk-on-blackboard, to musically-abstract color grids, to his present paintings inspired by scientific imagery. Currently an Assistant Professor of Art at Worcester State College, Hachey has also held professorships at Clark University, Worcester State College and the school of the Worcester Art Museum.

BETH McLAUGHLIN has been working in the arts industry for the past 15 years in both art consulting and museum exhibition development. Positions she has held include Corporate Program Director for DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park in Lincoln, MA; Art Consultant for Boston Corporate Art; and Curator/Project Manager for the Oakland Museum of California, where she managed large-scale sculpture exhibitions in off-site, public spaces. Additionally, Beth is a member of the New England Chapter of ArtTable, a leadership organization for women in the arts. Currently, Beth is the Development/Membership Coordinator for the Attleboro Arts Museum.

About Elm Park, Worcester, MA:

Elm Park, the best-known historic park in Worcester, was purchased in 1854 using public funds. The park is recognized as one of the first purchases of land for a public park in the U.S. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Elm Park is known for its historic bridges. Park facilities include a playground, tennis courts, basketball, and winter skating. There are numerous picnic areas and paths. A prominent park feature is three interconnected, shallow Mere Ponds. A perimeter walking path surrounds the ponds which can be crossed on two bridges that serve as passages between pond sections. Additional information at http://www.ci.worcester.ma.us/dpw/parks_rec/city_parks/elm_park/home.htm

Considerations:

Use: Elm Park is a well-loved park that sees upwards of 1,000 visitors on weekend days during nice weather. Families and children especially respond to sculptural installations, so that public safety and durability of the structure are major considerations.

Selection: Jurors will choose 20 works based on quality, suitability for an outdoor environment, as well as durability and public safety. Larger sculptures make more of an impact on the site and are more likely to withstand the activities of the public and weather. Pieces larger than 6’ in any dimension or weighing greater than 250 lbs are encouraged but not mandatory. Sculptures relating to themes of sustainability are also encouraged.

Installation: Anchors of up to 1-foot depth are permitted. Sculptures must be either large enough and/or mounted securely. Artists are responsible for bringing the sculpture to Elm Park, after which the parks department is available with the necessary equipment to assist in the installation. Guide wires must be marked and/or secured by protective barriers. Tree sculptures may be installed utilizing flexible clamp mechanisms that will not harm trees.

Siting: The exhibition planning team will determine siting of all works in the 5-acre park area surrounding Mere Ponds. Regard to maintaining healthy planted areas, and avoiding damage are considerations. Sculptures must be installed for the entire duration of the exhibition. All works are subject to approval by the project partners, the City of Worcester, and other agencies as appropriate.

Related Programs:

Cultural arts programming takes place in Elm Park and surrounding areas throughout the exhibit period. The weekly, popular summer concert series on Thursday evenings will begin on July 10 at 6:30pm and is sponsored by Park Spirit and the City of Worcester. The award ceremony for the three artist prizes will take place on Thursday, August 6 at 8:30pm during the Park Spirit concert series. Also, sculptures will be in place during stART on the Street, the largest arts street festival in central Massachusetts - http://www.startonthestreet.org.

Schedule:

Friday, February 20 Release Call to Artists
Friday, May 8 Deadline for submissions
Monday, June 1 Artist notification
Tuesday, July 21 – Sunday, July 26 Installation of sculptures
Thursday, August 6
6:30-7:15pm Concert, Part 1
7:15-7:45pm Artist Walk-through
7:45-8:30pm Concert, Part 2
8:30pm Award Ceremony, followed by artist reception Park Spirit concert and award ceremony for prize-winning sculptures, with artist reception and walk through.
Thursday, October 1 – Sunday, October 4 De-Installation

APPLICATION PROCESS AND CHECKLIST

Artists may enter up to three works. Interested artists may only submit entries by email to Curator caro...@gmail.com.

Application checklist:

• Brief description or artist statement.
• Resume with current contact information.
• Up to 5 clearly labeled JPEGs of up to 3 existing works
- Artists may send JPEGs formatted as follows:
- Formatted to read in Adobe Photoshop
- 300dpi Image resolution
- Maximum file size per image – 1MB
- Name each image: lastnamefirstnameimagenumber.jpg
• Image list

NH Media Makers

2009-03-09T18:06:00.004-04:00

I headed out to the NH Media Makers monthly meeting to check out what the creative minds of NH are talking about and collaborating on. Zombie movies, horror film nights, centralized arts websites, pano photography, creative writing, internet media, bloggers, designers, painters sculptures musicians and radio personalities. Everyone got 3 minutes to pitch who they are and what they are working on. Many of the attendees where there for the first time (me included) and many of those who have been before are now collaborating on projects together. Projects that would not have happened had they not come out for the meet up.
The energy of the group up was very positive and open minded. You can see who's who and find out more info at: http://NHMediaMakers.wordpress.com/

turning to go blue- stage 8

2009-03-05T22:39:00.001-05:00

turning to go blue- stage 8
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

just a few minor touch ups left

turning to go stage 7.5

2009-03-05T22:38:00.004-05:00

turning to go stage 7.5
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

pushing tones around the background figure. i felt that completely surrounding it in shadow would minimize it too much

turning to go blue stage 7

2009-03-05T22:38:00.001-05:00

turning to go blue stage 7
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

next step, glazed over the entire figure to emphasize the backlit effect and add more softness to the body

turning to go blue stage 6

2009-03-05T22:37:00.005-05:00

turning to go blue stage 6
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

detail shot of colors in the skin at this stage; orange tan green blue purple

turning to go blue stage 5

2009-03-05T22:37:00.003-05:00

turning to go blue stage 5
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

pushing the tones around to define the lighting in the room, more form, weight, and softness to the blanket, I wanted to carry the softness through to the nude figure by adding strands of hair hanging down

turning to go stage 4

2009-03-05T22:37:00.001-05:00

turning to go stage 4
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

added more light tones to draw out the gesture of the hands, as well as define more structure on the legs, shoulder and forearms

turning to go stage 3

2009-03-05T22:36:00.003-05:00

turning to go stage 3
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

re drew the position of the leg and arms used warm tones to draw in some layers of muscle tone

turning to go stage 2

2009-03-05T22:36:00.001-05:00

turning to go stage 2
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

Initially this painting was going to have the female figure fill the frame, this shot is of the third painted composition, shrunk the figure twice and added the second figure to the background. by doing this the dynamic of the composition lead into a story about two figures with thier back turned

Inspiration for turning to go blue

2009-03-05T22:34:00.003-05:00

Inspiration for turning to go blue
Originally uploaded by CindyWoehrle

Theres about 15 years between this drawing and the painting of it. A charcoal sketch i found in my college portfolio.

In the spirit of collaboration

2009-02-10T13:27:00.003-05:00

Over the past few weeks I've been working on some collaborative project ideas for the upcoming year. So I thought I would share a couple slide shows of past events.

Art 4 stART Interactive Timeline
who
what
where
when: did you stART?
why
how

Attendees at Art 4 stART were invited to share notes about their personal experiences and add them anonymously to a three dimensional time line.
The concept and execution of this project was a collaboration with Myself Alex Dunn and Donna Dufault.

Art Fusion Party with Collapsible Three

Artists drawing on rotating canvases based on Halloween themes and then another round of drawings set to the music of Collapsible Three.
Participating artists:
Derek Ring, Lee Hit, Casey Hickey, Hector Cedillo, John Vienneau

On the easel: A new series

2009-01-14T12:28:00.005-05:00

I have a new series of paintings I'm working on this winter. Figures and interiors with a connecting theme of Turning and Introspection, I am still developing the ins an outs of the theme through each individual painting. I want them to all be the same size (8"x8") in order to engage an intimacy when viewing the work.

"Turning To Go" is the first of the group and is finished. The process of working on it helped me develop the overall idea.

Here is the meaning behind this painting:

About a year ago I was finishing up my shift at BaBa, while sitting at the bar doing my paperwork I was struck by the lighting in the room and how it back lit my co-worker who was working behind the bar. I grabbed some scrap paper and started sketching right away and developed two ideas for a painting.

This painting is about leaving, coming to terms with decisions that have been made and resisting the urge to stay. The light shines more on the left because that is the direction of the figure (looking forward to positive change). There is a shift in the pose of the figure with the darker light trying to grab hold of the right arm. With that I tried to convey the feeling of obligation to stay, how a situation can take hold of you and try to pull you in or hold you back.

I decided to use my co-worker as the model for this painting, partly because he was there at the moment of inspiration and partly because he was leaving for California which fit the theme. I actually started this painting after he was gone, he never posed or modeled for me. The reason that the overall tone of the painting is calm is because it is about the process of introspection over life changes. I wanted to show a focused determination in the expression to reinforce the commitment to move forward with a decision.

My artwork has been about mood and atmosphere in the landscape with personal associations to feeling. "Turning To Go" helped me connect mood and atmosphere to the situations we find ourselves in. This is what I intend to develop further through the rest of the series.

20 Artists

2008-09-26T11:47:00.003-04:00

Read more on the 20 Artists book...

20 Artists
It is set to be released in November with the book signing taking place November 14th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Davis Art Gallery on the third floor of the Printers Building on 44 Portland Street in Worcester Ma.
The Gallery Show will feature all the portraits hanging next to each artists work.

Here's a sample shot from Scott Erb's portrait's.

Spring inside and out! April Studio Opening

2008-04-29T10:58:00.004-04:00

I opened up my studio doors to welcome in the fresh spring air. I also opened the doors to share a series of paintings from my portfolio.
I thank everyone for their kind support in making the afternoon a such success.

Here's a peak at a few of the works I shared:

Worcester Artist Book

2008-03-23T21:23:00.003-04:00

The Worcester Cultural Coalition gave an artists grant to Erb Photography for Scott Erb’s idea to shoot a book about Worcester area artists in their studios. He is an outstanding photographer who I met back in 2006 at an Arts Festival in the parking lot of Ralphs Diner.
I was honored when I find out that he wanted to include me in this project.
He came by my new studio the other day and we had a blast collaborating on our ideas for the photo shoot. I absolutely loved his ideas and although I have some personal favorites from the day; I cant wait to see what he’s picked out to use in the book.
To read more about Scott Erb, his work, the book project and get to a glimpse of the artists he’s photographing check out his website at:
Erb Photography
Book Project
Blog about our visit

Ploof Studio

2008-03-21T14:03:00.006-04:00

For me part of being an artist and loving art is loving art other than your own. I admit I want my own art collection and have begun building it with drawings, paintings, ceramics and now jewelry. I got to check out Chris Ploofs studio a few months back, his designs are based on textures and hard to work materials in metalsmithing.

Keeping this short; I just want to share that Chris made this necklace for me, I really love it and I admire his work.
Click over to his site to see more:
ChrisPloof
Here about his process in this interview on WCCA TV 13
WCCATV13
His designs are available at Neal Rosenblum Goldsmiths on Park Ave in Worcester, MA (877.778.1495) as well as many other galleries all over the country.

Colors of January

2008-01-22T11:52:00.001-05:00

Colors of January, nuances of white with turquoise, yellow, blue, peach and purple. The world around the snow built in shadows of sienna, mauve, violet and deep grays. Last night I mixed these colors onto my palette and I'm ready to start a few new canvases.

Wirrly Works in India

2008-01-15T01:30:00.000-05:00

I found this image on the website of my former employer Ajaya Kashyap.
The MedSpa

check out the artwork in the the upper right hand corner of this picture. Thats my painting!
So, Dr. Kashyap sold his practice and moved to India in '05 and I had always figured he left everything to the new guy. I had inquired about my painting when I heard he was moving but I didn't get an answer. So all this time I wondered what happened to it; thinking that maybe it had been resold or even discarded...
Now I know, its in his new office in New Delhi India. Kinda cool.
This is the largest I could get this picture to be... so tell me what you think:
Just to the left of the painting, is that a window or a door that will swing open into it? hoping its a window...

For anyone curious; the painting is titled "View from Mt. Monadnock" measures 2' x 4' executed in oil on panel in 1997. I still have the charcoal prep drawing I did for it, framed and hanging in my home.

Assignment: A paper about a martial artist

2007-12-16T15:24:00.001-05:00

Yuen Woo-Ping
By Cynthia Woehrle

When I found out about this paper and considered who to write about I realized there was one person who I had always wanted to know more about: Yuen Woo Ping. He is a very well known fight and action choreographer; so I wondered, where is his training based, what are his influences, what style of kung fu did he practice, how did he enter the industry?
Here’s what I found out:

Yuen Woo Ping trained at the China Drama Academy under Master Yu Jim Yuen. The China Drama academy was part of the Peking Opera School. Generally students are hand picked at an early age by a sifu and are boarded at the academy. Attending students learned Peking Opera, Martial arts, acrobatics and tumbling and performed these skills for audiences. Many of these schools had closed down after the Japanese invasion in 1931 but the China Drama Academy opened after the war in approximately 1950. Peking opera schools were well known for their harsh rigorous training methods in which the entire group of students would be beaten with bamboo canes for one students mistake during a performance. It is said that the schools that opened after the war were less harsh than previously.

The China Academy produced many students that went onto successful careers in Hong Kong cinema. Such as Jacky Chan, Sammo Hung, Yuen Biao, Yuen, Wah, Corey Yuen, Yuen Qui and of course Yuen Woo Ping. To tell you that anyone of these people trained at the China academy means that they lived breathed and ate training. Generally the day started at 5 am for morning exercises. (Jacky Chan had been quoted in saying that Yu Jim Yuen did not allow students to use the bathroom until the lunch break; the theory being that any toxins in the body would be flushed out in sweat during these exercises.) The remainder of the day would consist of learning skills in acting, weapons, kung fu, stretching, combat, acrobatics and performing. These performances served as income for the school and as also paying the debt the students accumulate during their stay for expenses of food and accommodations. Training took place up to 18 hours a day. All this was part of the contract the students made with the school generally these contracts were for ten years of training and living at the academy. The film “Painted Faces” was based on Master Yu Jim and although it is told from the perspective of Jacky Chan and Sammo Hung’s generation of students it is still able to reflect the training, society and influences that all students Master Yu Jim had, including Yuen Woo-Ping. Master Yu Jim is known also as a northern kung fu practitioner. Many of his students took on Yuen as their sur-name, which is a tradition. I have found information also that Yuen Woo-Ping’s father was also a huge influence on his training – more specifically in the aspect of Kung Fu.

Woo-Ping (meaning Peace) was the oldest of 12 children. He was born in 1945 in Guangzhan China and his father is Yuen Siu Tin. Yuen Siu Tin also trained at the China academy under Master Jim where he graduated to the level of instructor, had a long career with the Peking Opera and was known as an expert. After his graduation Siu Tin taught Kung Fu in Guangzhan. He also performed in black and white Cantonese Custom dramas; credits list him appearing over 100 of these dramas before starting his movie career. It was Siu Tin’s reputation and regard in the industry that helped enable Woo-Ping to launch his career. Actually, five of his children went on to have successful careers in Hong Kong cinema. Siu Tin was cast as a sifu to a young Jacky Chan in “Snake in the Eagles Shadow” (directed by Woo-Ping) this role also boosted his career and he became famous in this genre in 1978 at the age of 67.

That said; Woo-Ping had a deep-set family tradition in Kung Fu, performance, and the film industry. Unfortunately at the time of writing this paper I was unable to discover what style of Kung Fu Woo-Ping and his father practiced and taught. Yuen Woo-Ping carried over his extensive training in Kung Fu and Chinese Opera into an amazingly successful career as a choreographer and director. So, no biography about Woo-Ping would be complete with out an overview of his career.

Woo-Ping started his career after being introduced to the producers of the Wong Fei Hung series in the late 60’s. He developed his film stunt work more when he started working with the Shaw brothers. In 1971 he gets his first credit as a choreographer with the movie “Mad Killer” directed by Ng See Yuen. Ng and Woo-Ping work together again in “Snake in the Eagles Shadow and Drunken Master”

Many of Woo-Ping’s films are favorites amongst fans of Kung Fu movies, whether he has acted in the film, directed it or choreographed it. I believe a lot of this is a testament to the training that was instilled in him when he was younger. It seems as though many elements came together in a unique way for this generation of China Drama Academy. First consider the original intention for training at the drama academy; yes it was for performance but not necessarily for film performance. The film industry has been continually changing and progressing over the past 100 years. I feel that Woo-Ping entered the industry at a great time of opportunity when there was a surge of projects and interest in kung fu films. Hong Kong Cinema – one of three major threads in the history of Chinese language films, alongside Cinema of China and Cinema of Taiwan. It was in the late 60’s that Hong Kong Cinema grew to be the third largest motion picture industry in the World. Its success is due in part to political and economic freedom Hong Kong had from Mainland China. They also became the second largest exporter in the industry in the world. I am sure that there was a lot of competition from other graduates of the Peking Opera schools around the country, and that a few connections in the industry helped him get in but I would not use that question as criticism towards someone who’s career never stopped. Once in he stepped up and did the job. The work ethic and motivation to continually put out movie after movie and to also push the genre is very admirable. He was able to make an impact not only through his skill as a martial artist but as well as being able to convey his vision to actors, stunt men, film crew and other performers and have that vision conveyed through film to an eager audience. Over the course of a 40-year career one would hope to contribute something of substance to what they do. Woo-Ping has certainly done that and has raised the bar for future action film directors.

It would be very cumbersome to analyze all the films he’s done. So I would like to present a few films that represent different stages of his career.

Early films; like “Snake in the Eagles Shadow” “Drunken Master” dating 1978; are in the classic Kung Fu movie style. These are period films that have story lines set in Kung Fu schools demonstrating the students training and development through overcoming obstacles in a certain style as well as personal challenges. These movies reflect a history to kung fu in china (although they may be loosely based on fact and more on legend) the stories of Kung fu are filled with rivalries, revenge, and honor and of course the fight scenes. What fans appreciate about Hong Kong Cinema fight scenes is the physicality behind the stunts the intent and strength in the movements and combinations in the fight scenes; and of course the talent of the stars performing these stunts.

I find his mid career films to be in the early to mid 90’s. “Wing Chun”, “Iron Monkey” and “Once Upon a Time in China” and “Fist of Legend” are all historical films telling the stories behind heroes in Chinese culture- that also did kung fu. It is shortly after this time that Hong Kong was returned to Chinese sovereignty and there was a crisis in the industry about the effect that would have. Despite this major political change Hong Kong Cinema has been able to retain its individuality. It is also in the late 80’s and 90’s that “wire work” in the stunts and fight scenes were utilized in the films. This presented more of a supernatural or super human element to the capabilities of the characters a huge difference when you compare that a character can just naturally fly to the early films that conveyed the grueling training the characters did to achieve their skills.

It was “Fist of Legend” that grabbed the attention of American filmmakers the Wachowski Brothers and they hired him as choreographer for The Matrix. The Matrix is a sci-fi film based in the future. Previous to this film Hong Kong Cinema genre had a strong cult following but the success of “The Matrix” and then the international success of “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” has taken that following to a more mainstream status in the U.S.

These break through movies in the late 90’s to today has brought him to the American forefront as the most desirable action choreographer to work with and he was subsequently hired to work on Quentin Tarentino’s Kill Bill’s and then the Matrix Sequels. At this time I would like to note the difference In the “wire work” stunts in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and “Hero” 2006 as compared to “Fearless”. The first two films from 2000 and 2002 are epic and beautiful and although there are great hand-to-hand combat scenes the fantasy like “flying element” is still predominant through out the films. The characters engage in battle in the air, on top of trees, can scale walls, all these things are visual eye candy and awe inspiring to the viewer. “Fearless” on the other hand only used the wirework in quick mid air turns. Ryan Pearson described this well when he wrote: “During one fight, Jet Li is knocked off a tall platform. While nearly horizontal, he grabs its edge and flips himself back on. When he's pushed from a boxing ring, he grabs the top rope with a hand, and puts a foot on a post to bounce smoothly in the opposite direction; such moves are brief and powerful. They require suspended disbelief for just a split second. Then it's back to the brutal, more realistic on-the-ground battles, where Yuen and Yu focus on Li's expert footwork.”

Woo-Ping has worked with actors at the onset of their careers who have gone on to also achieve awards an acclaim for their work in film. Such as Jet Li, Michelle Yeoh, Donny Yen, Jacky Chan. His collaborations in the industry have paired into many other projects. Quentin Tarentino helped to bring the film “Hero” to the US big screen; this film featured a fight scene between Jet Li and Donny Yen, who had not been filmed together since “Once Upon a Time in China”. His father Yuen Sui Tin was in many films, mentored Jacky Chan after they worked together in “Drunken Master”, Sui Tin was featured in 35 more films during his lifetime. In 1979 the “Drunken Master” role was reprised for the movie “Magnificent butcher” – this time paired with Sammo Hung and also directed by his son Woo-Ping. Sui Tin died of a heart attack partway through the filming of this movie; the part was recast and his scenes re-shot. Jacky Chan of course has achieved superstar status and is the most well-known martial arts actor in the world, it is said that Sui Tin help Jacky develop the on screen antics and stunt work that he became known for.

Considering all the inter-connections between the stars, the directors and the choreographers; Hong Kong Cinema appears to be a very small and tight knit industry. But now that Woo-Ping is more internationally known his influence has “shaken up” the expectations of American audiences. They want to see their actors perform more than two moves before being edited from another angle, there is far more appreciation for the skills being displayed on the screen. For instance the “Kill Bill’s”; where Woo-Ping was the action choreographer and fight adviser; was seen as having intentionally over the top violence from the perspective of American Film perspective but also was regarded a tribute to Hong Kung Cinema and the revenge genre. This film certainly offered something new to the American audience and of course Tarentino’s pairing with Woo-Ping has contributed to the raised expectations of the western audience as well appreciation for the martial arts aspect of films.

His peers regard Woo-Ping as a Master and he is held with utmost respect, which I believe he has earned. His newest project “The Great Wall” is now in production and I look forward seeing where he takes the style of fight choreography and stunt work that he presented in “Fearless” an “Unleashed”.

Master Yu Jim Yuen of The China Drama Academy

"Simon" Yuen Sui-tin

Over heard in Worcester

2007-12-01T15:05:00.001-05:00

"I respect a man who doesn't waste a lot of headroom on interpersonal problems. It must be nice to not have a conscience..."

Undercover restorers fix Paris landmark's clock

2007-11-27T15:12:00.000-05:00

Paris Pantheon
They let themselves get locked in
Set up a studio underneath the dome- planks of wood, table, chairs, tools all snuck in from a side entrance after picking a lock. They even set up a computer and internet service up there.

Consequence?

An antique clock is restored
Officials press charges but these "cultural guerilla's" are cleared of any wrong doing
The Administer of the building loses his job.

Cant imagine what would have happened to these guys if homeland security caught them in this country. Probably would have been reminiscent of the Cartoon Network fiasco in Boston.

"For a year from September 2005, under the nose of the Panthéon's unsuspecting security officials, a group of intrepid "illegal restorers" set up a secret workshop and lounge in a cavity under the building's famous dome. Under the supervision of group member Jean-Baptiste Viot, a professional clockmaker, they pieced apart and repaired the antique clock that had been left to rust in the building since the 1960s. Only when their clandestine revamp of the elaborate timepiece had been completed did they reveal themselves."

Read the rest of the article

Hanover pushes forward

2007-11-26T11:52:00.001-05:00

The other day I took a tour of the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts renovations in downtown Worcester. To me it was a bit of a now or never situation because the scaffolding to the ceiling was coming down on Saturday (the 24th) and I wasn't going to pass by the chance to see the restored ceiling up close. Ok, so I'll admit I'm a bit of a history geek, an art geek and a sucker for documentaries about restoration projects; be it This Old House or The Sistine Chapel. So I was pretty excited to put on my hard hat and walk behind the chain link fence surrounding the property at Federal Square.
This was my second time in this building- not being a Worcester native I had only seen one movie here before the Loews Poli Theater closed down. (was it a Loews or a Showcase? I'm finding information saying both) The movie was Dark City and I remember feeling the building was as surreal as the film I was watching, its weathered late 60's decor, old creaky seats, sparse attendance. I compared the building to Cabot Street Cinema in Beverly Mass the theater that I frequented in college, it was warm, comfortable, and well maintained; what a stark contrast between the two places. I had just moved to Worcester and I really didn't know what to think about the downtown area, I'll say that I didn't see many reasons to venture down that way again. First impressions last a long time and it wasn't until Start on the Street threw its first festival on Main Street that this area caught my attention again.
So here I am nearly ten years later getting a tour of this impressive project.

History:
First built as a small theater in 1904 and expanded in 1925 ; was taken over by National Amusements in 1967 and converted to the theater I experienced in 1998; closing shortly afterward. In 2002 Worcester Center of Performing Arts acquired the space and started planning the restoration to the theaters 1925 elegance. You can read the rest of the details by following the link above.

The tour in pictures:

The old facade is behind the scaffolding. The building is on the National Register of Historic places. The plywood you see is in place of the stained glass. Unfortuately the glass was too damaged to be restored. Hopefully down the road it will be replaced but I was told that it's not in the budget for now....anyone want to gift a new stained glass window? :)
To the right of the scaffolding is the new facade. which will be all glass and overlook Federal Square.

View of Federal Square

A piece of wall detailing the color scheme from the 1925 additions. These colors are being used on the restored ceiling. These walls were completely unstable and are being torn down- you can see new new drywall on the left side of this photo.

The tour reaches the ceiling:
Pictured here (L-R) is my tour buddy Donna from Erb photography and our tour guides Steve from Barr and Barr Construction and Kallin Johnson from the board of Trustees of the Performance center. You can see here the scale of the ceiling that we are standing under. the ceiling had been completely repaired with 20% of it being reconstructed. This is a suspended ceiling and was crafted on site during the 1925 additions.

Center detail of the ceiling. Here you can see the gold red and green colors that were carried over from details found in the theater. A chandelier hangs from the center which is currently off site being restored.

The round flower at the top of this picture is accented in real gold leafing. you can also see here that there is still some painting left to do but the flooring is blocking the wall. once the scaffolding is down the details on the upper wall can be completed.

Standing above the auditorium.
Here there was an access point looking down into the auditorium. The half circle at the center of the picture is the Orchestra Pit.

Kallin points out details above the suspended ceiling.
There is a cat walk on top to access the lighting, heating, duct work and other units that were installed to modernize the theater. The white part of the wall is a cross-section of the ceiling this will be extended to curve down to the top of the stage (which you can see below). Once constructed the space where we are standing will not exist and the only access to the ceiling will be the cat walk above.

Ceiling with scaffolding viewed from the stage.

Under the stage and access to the orchestra pit

Old and new

This picture depicts the hand railing for the mezzanine seating plus the new supports. Five more of these "arms" are being installed; weighing at about 10 tons each.

To the right is the original building in brick to the left is concrete that is the extension of the building. The original stage was five feet shorter on this side. During the current expansion the entire stage was extended to 40 feet deep. This size will accommodate the touring Broadway shows that are being booked for the theatre.

Its impressive to see the "guts" of the building during this project. I am certain that much of this has already transformed since I took my tour on the 21st.

This project is pushing forward at full speed and will be opening in March. Yup, March just a few months away. I encourage anyone to go down and check out this project, the engineering, artistry and professionalism behind it is truly impressive, and its encouraging to see something so culturally vital and active happening in downtown Worcester. I couldn't possibly completely reiterate all the information the Kallin and Steve shared with us during the tour. Many thanks to each of them for everything that they have done to make this theater happen and for taking the time to show me around. I left them feeling very positive about whats happening downtown, this is a huge step towards revitalizing the area and I hope that the theaters progress will encourage the City Square project to pick up momentum.

Public tours happen every Wednesday at 5:30.

You can view more pictures from this tour by visiting my flickr site here.

Heres a list (borrowed from the website) of the Major Renovations.

The major renovations include:

Removing earlier cinema alterations and reconfiguring seating arrangements;
Restoring the stage and proscenium wall;
Installing elevators for access to all lobby, stage and back-of-house areas;
Installing a new orchestra pit, workrooms, access and loading areas;
Upgrading mechanical systems and installing state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems;
Upgrading building code requirements: exits and access;
Replacing the roof and new insulation for energy efficiencies;
Restoration of the historic lobby area and re-opening of the 2nd floor mezzanine; and
Construction of a new, glass pavilion lobby overlooking Federal Square

Light the Lights Campaign
If you would like to help support the theatre please follow this link to make a donation.

Thoughts on Thanksgiving

2007-11-21T10:13:00.000-05:00

Nov 21st: The Biggest Bar Night of the Year, or so I keep hearing. Possibly even bigger than New Years Eve. I suppose I've never heard of a Thanksgiving Eve party so what else is there to do when you've finished baking, traveling, and running around preparing for Turkey Day? Some sarcastically say they "need a few drinks" to help prep them for a full day of family time. But Really, its a four day weekend (that only happens once a year) you deserve to meet up with friends and have a couple drinks to it kick off.

So how are you gonna spend this big party night? Theres a bunch of hip things happening around the Worcester bar scene, just look here.

If your staying in Worcester tonight it would be a shame to miss those shows.
I'll be at BaBa working the closing shift and hanging with my BaBa family and a few favorite regulars.

So, theres a pitch for going out the night before Thanksgiving but what is this all about? The biggest traveling day of the year, biggest bar night, biggest shopping day, biggest national holiday? Is it all in the name of family? What does Thanksgiving really mean? "Modern Day" Thanksgiving means family togetherness, taking a moment to appreciate the things you have, eating too much turkey, watching football and planning ahead to hit the big sales the next day. Sounds a little cliche doesn't it?

"Modern Day" Thanksgiving to me is about being with my family and feeling nostalgic about those family traditions that have been kicking around since I was a kid. This year its also about change and noting anniversaries. The first Thanksgiving since a loved ones death; missing the traditions that had included them. Like watching the dog show while snacking on appetizers and getting the food on the table. Remembering scenarios that will not happen again.

Yesterday morning I met the father of a little boy who had died over the weekend. He smiled and shook my hand. Upon receiving my condolences, he explained to me how he was thankful for the 7 years that he was able to spend with his son. In facing loss he found a poignant way to remember him. Life is precious and sometimes short. On this holiday he and his family will also be on my mind. Situations like this cut through whatever cliches commercialism has imposed on the holidays. Life changes. What better way to honor past good times with loved ones than to continue to Live?

Toast with your friends tonight. Have a good time and Celebrate the people you love.

A Moment to Promote Fire and Ice

2007-11-14T15:48:00.001-05:00

I'll have two pieces in the show.
Sizzler at the Aurora

Fire and Ice 2007

ARTSWorcester Members Winter Exhibition and Sale

November 16 through December 19, 2007

Join us for a festive opening reception on Friday, November 16, 2007 at ARTSWorcester for Fire and Ice, a Winter Members Show. Over fifty artists will exhibit works in many different types of media. Live music will be provided for the evening by Chet Williamson and by the ARTSWorcester Jazz Ensemble. A silent auction and a live art auction will take place with celebrity auctioneers, including Worcester Mayor Konnie Lukes, James Welu of the Worcester Art Museum, State Representative Robert P. Spellane, and others. All artwork will be for sale so shop early for the holidays. It’s going to be a hot sale on a cool night!

The opening reception will take place Friday, November 16, 2007 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the Aurora Gallery. Silent Auction will take place between 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM and the Live Auction will occur between 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM. Tickets for the opening reception are $25.00 per person.

Artists on display include: Eugene Albrizio, Raymond Army, Lisa Barthelson, Eleanor Beatty, Ed Bissell, Emily Boosahda, Lora Brueck, Bill Caloccia, Susan Champeny, George Cooley, Donna Conroy, Linda Dagnello, Jessica DeHaemer, Andrea Driscoll, Mary Dunn, Eugene Epstein, Scott Erb, Jenn Falcon, Cindy Lee Fedeli, Andres Gilardo, Igor Gurbanov, Robert Gilfoy, Ginney Gillen, Darlene Haddad, Brian Higgins, Scott Holloway, Nicole Hutchinson, Howard Johnson, Timothy Johnson, Susan Kenney, Jesse Knott II, Sam Lalos, John LaPrade, Cheryl Litchwell, Susan Lozoratis, Dalton Lugo, Dominick Marcigliano, Maggie McCauley, Phil McGourty Gilman, Carlotta Miller, Christopher Moniak, Robert Morey, Allen Palmer, Matt Patterson, Joan Paulson Gage, Reynald Poisson, Christina O’Neill, Jacqueline Ross, George Sampson, Dawn Scott, Mary Shepherd, Niva Shrestha, Jack Sikes, David Snay, Sid Solomon, Zoey Stites, Susan Stuart, Leonard Stokwski, Louis Swinand, Susan Swinand, Katherine Taronas, Troy B. Thompson, Mihoko Wakabayashi, Edward Watson, Jill Watts, and Christopher Whitehead. (as of 11/6/2007)

Flaming snowflakes?!

2007-11-12T16:04:00.000-05:00

This weeks studio project is a bit crafty; as I am making decorations for ArtsWorcester's event on Friday.
I was presented with a box full of cardstock, glue, stickers and hole punches then asked to come up with an idea for auction paddles. The theme of the event is "Fire and Ice" A Hot Sale on a Cool Night.
Well to me the idea of making flames w/ snowflakes and flaming snowflakes fit perfectly! Although I am a painter not a crafter I was still compelled to try my hand at this project; which I thought would give a little "flare" to the usual decor.
That and of course there's a principle here. ArtsWorcester is an ARTS organization with a resource of about 400 artists so we should be able to pull together something a little creative for our Once a year Fundraiser, right?
so here i am cutting and pasting; taking much more time with the project than I probably should. I have 7 mostly done and 4 more to go.
I will post a couple pictures in a little while.

heres two:
I started off doing the "cutesie" look and ended up making the later ones more elaborate.

New Blogger account for me

2007-11-06T15:26:00.000-05:00

Let me introduce myself.

I am Cynthia Woehrle. I am an artist living in Worcester Ma where I have recently acquired my own studio. With this new studio I am entering a new phase of my art work.

what else?

I studied at Montserrat college of art where I met my mentor George Gabin. I am on the board at ArtsWorcester where I help the visual arts committee plan out the gallery schedule and promote the art community. I also volunteer for Worcester Arts Alliance in planning their annual fundraiser Art 4 stART which funds the stART on the Street festival.

So this is my art blog, where I'll be offering a glimpse of what I do in the studio, the happenings in the art community around town and my perspective on the global art world.