I've been meaning to write about Nevada City, California artist Eileen Blodgett since August when I met her at a local show and discovered dogs in her work. I had admired her art since I first saw her Queen of Hearts, #2 in the ASiF (Artists' Studios in the Foothills) "Art of Love" show here in February. She won first prize.
During our chat last August, Eileen explained how the Queen of Hearts, #2 was one of a series of the 52 card deck that she began when she turned 52. She confessed it was a much larger undertaking than she had expected. Several years had passed and she was not even at the half-way point. But, because she does not go in order of suits or numbers, the experience of being drawn to a certain card and discovering its meaning has been endlessly inspiring to her as an artist and a person. Like getting a Tarot reading before embarking on a new project. As a Tarot card reader myself, I spent a while circling her booth and turning her card rack in my own trance before picking the Ten of Diamonds to purchase. She graciously waved away my money and told me it was a gift.
Then, she turned over the card and showed me its meaning written on the back…
One phase of life is ended and another is about to begin. A journey combines business and pleasure and will bring a reward. Off with the old and on with the new, fear not new beginnings. The Titanic was built by professionals, but the Ark was built by a volunteer. Go ahead, try whatever it is that is calling you.
I was teary-eyed and elated. The week before, I had mentally shut down some projects that weren't working for me to make room for new for new ones, scary ones, I had less confidence in myself about accomplishing. This card and this artist were telling me to go for it. I accepted the gift and the wisdom. Then, Eileen said that this was the first card she ever created. The first in her own 52 card project. The one that opened the door to years of inspiration, direction, accolades, and compensation. How perfect, I tried to tell her. How grateful, I tried to show her. I don't know if she understood. But it mattered to me on many levels and the Ten of Diamonds hangs framed on my wall, its printed message posted in my art studio, a daily reminder to "fear not…and go ahead." Thank you, Eileen.
Now some more dogs…
Eileen Blodgett will be at the Nevada City Artisans Festival next weekend at the Miners Foundry, November 25 through November 27, 10am – 5pm, admission is $3. This show is a 35 year-old tradition and the quality of artists are excellent. There is also live music, foood, drinks, and a fire in the fireplace. Like the tulips of Ananda it is one of the events that drew me here.
Visit Eileen Blodgett's website to purchase originals and prints online.
Also, speaking of Noah volunteering to build the Ark, we are looking for volunteers to help decorate the Nevada City Miners Foundry for the holidays on Tuesday November 22, Adults 9am – 12pm and children welcome from 12pm – 3pm. If you can't make it, but would like to sponsor a tree or a wreath or an amaryllis flower. Or donate something from our wish list, please email me.
Information about the Miners Foundry Decorating Schedule and Wish List.
Here is our Pinterest inspiration board. I call it "miners first Christmas chic."