Tuesday, November 21, 2017

MORE THAN A BOOKSIGNING BOOKSIGNING

….was held in the Nan Rae Studio for Lisa Di Vita’s page turner of a book, ‘The Shattered Peacock’ based on a real life story of displacement and heroism.  The theme is universal and relatable for so many whether you’re living in a city other than your birth or have crossed an ocean to begin a new life.
In keeping with the theme, stunning floral arrangements were designed by creative Amy at lejardinprive.com 818.625.5243. Can you see the peacock feathers?  Amazing!Fullsizeoutput 1713fOf course food is essential and precious Marine along with her way too adorable children Alex and Alyssa were in charge of the food detail.  IMG 6104This is how Alex rolls!IMG 6107Heartfelt thanks dear Marine!
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Sweet Patricia brought the most amazing cake….way too delicious for anyone’s good….Here’s just what was left of it.
IMG 6094I lost count of the guests at 55…..Fullsizeoutput 1712c
Lovely Farnaz added so much to the discussion….all touching and heart felt.IMG 6029
As did dear Maryam...
IMG 6025Valerie had an amazing experience to share as well...IMG 6032 After her inspiring talk, Lisa was surrounded and not only were people getting a book but many wanted two or three!Fullsizeoutput 17140
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Lovely Marine brought Eleen,  her delightful, talented artist friend.
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You know how much I love my peeps!  From the left:  Lynne, Kathy, Kc and Clara!IMG 6067
O.K. Kc, you’re going to have to fill me in on this conversation...IMG 8894
Joy Bell Clara gets her book and a big smile….IMG 8888
Three amazing women: Farnaz, my brilliant inventor friend, Valerie, the Hostess With the Mostest and Marsha Ramos who is saving the planet, one project at a time!IMG 6162
I have to say that Farnaz brought everyone to tears with her relatable story….
Fullsizeoutput 1713bI was delighted Lisa Lupo could join us.  She is a devoted, brilliant curator and authority on Russian Avant Garde art...
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I have to say these two, Maryam and dear Patricia, are truly the sweetest of the sweet!IMG 6077
We had great fun remembering the book signing for lovely, talented Lissi Kaplan here with fiancee Doug.  Amy, you’re amazing!IMG 6044
After getting three copies, Ralph was already enthralled by ‘Shattered Peacock’!IMG 6052
Max, this precious, adorable baby brought his parents Cole and Becca!
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The end of an amazing event in the studio…..author Lisa with producer, director hubby Chuck Bowman and producer son Stephen.
IMG 6091Special thanks to Nikka who worked over and beyond to make the event perfect and to Connor who was our driver in charge.
And to think I get to enjoy these exquisite flowers!  May you find beauty everyday!IMG 6099
You can order a copy of ‘Shattered Peacock’ at Amazon: http://a.co/jj9KlPD
For inscribed copies please email Lisa at lbowman9@gmail.com
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Introduction

There is no avoiding the pull of the internet, the blogs, the YouTube imaginings. It's as if we're all 'On the Road' with Jack Kerouac each in our own world of meanderings. When we tell someone to 'get a life' it might be a bit difficult when you're dragged into other people's 24/7.

I've come to realize two foundational principals, there are no accidents and everyone has a purpose. More and more I'm desiring everyone to come into a full realization of their purpose as we all find our way on this little jewel of a planet.

For me, as a professional 'Western style artist', I stumbled into Chinese Brush Painting after a trip in 1980 to Monet's home/garden. Seeing all of his collection of Japanese woodblock prints was an ahh haa moment for me and when I returned to the States I started painting in the Chinese manner and never looked back. The first year was extremely painful for me as I felt that I should be able to master the technique since I was a 'trained' artist. Not a chance ... that just gets in your way.

Now, after teaching close to 3,000 students and having my book 'The Ch'i of the Brush' published by Watson Guptill, I can say that every one of my students does better their first day than I did my first year! Why? Because I insist that they leave their critical parent outside and just enjoy the journey, respecting the work that they do. I never let anyone throw anything away because that just ingrains frustration and defeat.

We really only begin to learn when we stop and figure out how to 'save' a painting. It works every time.I am so proud of my students, their receptivity and eagerness to express themselves is a continuing blessing for me.So, back to finding your purpose. Perhaps it starts with realizing 'it's not about me'. It so easy to want our needs met and to filter everything thru this attitude. When we realize that we're here to be of benefit to every life that we touch the universe really provides the ways and means.

The best part is that it's really exciting to not have yourself on your mind all the time!I'm re-reading a wonderful book about authenticity and in my next meandering I'll tell you about it. In the meantime I'd love to hear about your journey and am here to answer any and all questions about Chinese Brush Painting.