I’m delighted to share that selected images from my photographic series “The Rocky Mountain West” are now on exhibit in one of the main gathering places in my hometown. If you get there, please drop me a note and let me know what you think!

We’ve gotten a bit of rain over the past few months…

in fact, more than we received throughout *all* of 2011. The wildflowers are in full glory as a result.

I left a bit early to go to the airport and pick up a client yesterday, just so I could take a few photos of the flowers that color large swaths of the land along Toll Road 130 that swings around Austin.

No, it’s not something cool like a new website for a great artist. In fact, it’s pretty mundane. But when one is a programmer, one will inevitably be asked to program stuff. And if the money is worth the time away from my studio, sometimes I say yes.

There are still some weeks left before the project is complete and life returns to what laughingly passes for normal. In the meantime, I have been attempting to at least keep my eye in by taking photos every day, usually with my cell phone simply because it’s handy.

Here a few images made with the Hisptamtic app – which is the most fun one can have for $1.99! – on a rainy afternoon in North Austin.

Hip Rainy Day Series | © 2012 Cynthia Wenslow

Then, read how to acquire some of the artwork donated by top fiber artists. 100% of the proceeds goes directly to the American Cancer Society!

Today is finally the preview of all the photos available for FotoFiber 2012, a Fiberart For a Cause Fundraiser for the American Cancer Society!

I am so excited. As a participating photographer, I’ve been watching the process as photos were selected and assembled. Of course, I knew what mine were, but it was really fun to watch the photos by Karen Stiehl Osborn and Virginia Spiegel go up. I’ve been trying to narrow down my choices for some time now. I want them all!

And, did I mention that there are fun fiber bonuses by some of my favorite fiber artists? Click to see the list of generous donating artists and a few sneak peaks of what could be yours!

Don’t forget to read the directions prior to February 15, the first of the two days for the event. You won’t want to miss out!

On a personal note, my family, like so many others, has been deeply and sadly impacted by cancer, most recently by the death of my 42 year old brother last year. This is a wonderful way to make a donation for a great cause and receive some beautiful, uplifting artwork at the same time. Please share news of this event with others. Thank you for supporting the American Cancer Society!

Cherry Blossom Scarf | © 2012 Cynthia Wenslow

Above is a 44″ x 44″ flat crepe scarf with scarf clip in Cherry Blossom.

Below is a 14″ x 72″ chiffon scarf in Tulip Garden.

Tulip Garden Scarf | © 2012 Cynthia Wenslow

The two images I have donated are exclusive to this event. You won’t have another chance to own them in any format, ever. Don’t miss out! Each photo will have only three prints made. Ever. Donate early and often for the best chance to acquire one!

Vortex | © Cynthia Wenslow

Beautiful Heavens | © 2011 Cynthia Wenslow

UPDATE: FotoFiber 2012 was very successful. We have now raised over $225,000 for the American Cancer Society! Thank you, patrons, for your generosity!

I began last week by cleaning out and organizing the utility room and the pantry. Getting rid of extraneous “stuff” just feels good, and I’m left with a more functional space that is just nicer to use.

I’ve started on the bookshelves, too. It’s been my life long habit to get my hands on a book and never let it go. But, realistically, will I ever re-read that paperback mystery that was too predictable from the start? Doubtful. Time to send it to a new home.

Yes, the studio is also getting cleared out. Throughout the years, supplies, fabrics, and books have piled up that are no longer applicable to my art practice. Someone else might be at the place in their journey where those things could fit seamlessly into their life.

This lightening up even applies to my website. Gone is the old gray, textured background, now replaced by sparkling white. The minimalist theme feels more like my artwork, and more like the spirit of essence I am moving toward.

Here are a couple quick snapshots from the opening reception the other night at the Dougherty Arts School. There was a great turn-out. It was fun to see the work of the other instructors.

My diptych “View from the Other Side” can be seen in the center of this first photo.

The exhibit is up until December 20. Drop by and check it out if you have a chance. It’s very nicely hung, and the work is excellent.

Before the doors opened.

Setting up.

Daphne Holland in the burgundy sweater in the center. Daphne is the coordinator for the adult ed programs at DAC and pulled the exhibit together.

Visitors surround the refreshment tables and fill the gallery!

My diptych “View from the Other Side” is being exhibited from December 5 – 20, 2011 in the Dougherty Arts School Faculty Exhibit. Please join me at the opening reception Tuesday, December 6 from 6-8 p.m.

Dougherty Arts School Faculty Exhibition
Julia C. Butridge Gallery at Dougherty Arts Center
1110 Barton Springs Road
Austin, Texas 78704

Gallery Hours: M-Th 10am to 9:30pm, Fri 10am to 5:30pm, Sat 10am to 4pm, Sunday closed.