Finding Kindred Spirits--Artists and Writers

While I was visiting the Sedona Arts Center recently, I was drawn to two unique and beautiful glass tables created by artist Joanne Hiscox. A notation next to the tables told how this artist was working on these creations when the 19 Arizona fire fighters died in the recent tragic fire. Hiscox is donating all proceeds from the sales of the two tables to the families of the Granite Mountain Hot Shot crew.

"Sedona Vision" Copyright Mary Montague Sikes

I was impressed by the art and by the concern and generosity of the artist. I was also impressed by the volunteer at the Center, Mary Heyborne.A poet and a ceramic artist, Heyborne has some of the most beautifully-crafted pottery I have seen anywhere on display at the Center. Her sculptural background is evident in her work. Also, her love of poetry glows from within the forms of her pieces.

As we chatted, I learned that Heyborne is the author of three books of poetry. Although I don't usually purchase poetry, I was drawn to buy one of her books, and I'm glad I did. Words and Other Lovers is filled with emotional words and poetic visions that left tears streaming down my cheeks. The cover on her book features one of Heyborne's unique pieces of pottery that was formed from castings of her own face.

I found that as often happens, I discover kindred spirits in unexpected ways. Artists and writers are kindred spirits. Often creative people possess both talents. Discovering one of them is indeed special.

Taking an Artist Workshop in Sedona, Arizona

At the Sedona Arts Center - MMSikes

We just returned from an awesome and intense 10 days in Sedona, Arizona. I traveled there because I have long admired the work of artist Jan Sitts, and I wanted to take one of her workshops.

After her class at Cheap Joe's in Boone, NC was cancelled last summer, I found that Jan teaches workshops at the Sedona Arts Center in Sedona, the beguiling destination that is the setting for my novel, Eagle Rising. After much consideration, I decided to sign up for the workshop. Since we needed to fly, I would be unable to carry all the supplies I normally take in our car. Therefore, I ordered a limited amount of materials from Utrecht and got them shipped to the Art Center.

The full class of 16 students watched Jan demonstrate her method of working with experimental water media. Using multiple materials, intense color, and lots of layers, she inspired an amazing number of outstanding art pieces created during four days of passionate, concentrated work.

Jan Sitts introduction the first day - MMSikes

Jan winding down the final day - MMSikes

It's always sad to reach the end of a workshop, but, along with everyone else, I headed home inspired and grateful for the opportunity to learn and expand my painting horizons. Although I missed having all the acrylic colors, watercolors, and inks I enjoy using, I survived with my limited palette!

Thank you, Jan!

--Mary Montague Sikes