“I know what Lyme has done to you and how narrowly you have survived thus far.”

I read an essay today that made me feel normal — and even slightly hopeful — for the first time in years (it’s been a really hard few years).

It’s a little long, but beautifully written as an exercise by Lyme survivor Jennifer Crystal in the style of the great James Baldwin, so worth the extra few minutes. I found it powerful to read it aloud.

If you are chronically ill with Tick Borne Illnesses or know someone who is, I’m putting this on your Must Read List:

“Letter to a Lyme patient, written in the style of a famous essay by James Baldwin.”

(From the lymedisease.org blog: Touched By Lyme.)

Saint Rat – Silly Silk

See more on my art website:  http://AstaArt.com/

 

Saint Rat – Silly Silk, a photo by Serena Mira Asta (Formerly Elizabeth Anne) on Flickr.

SOLD – Original Saint Rat batik on silk. First piece sold during the Fall 2011 Art Crawl!

New Asta Art Site

I’m creating a new art blog in time for the Fall 2011 St. Paul Art Crawl: Asta Art. It’s under construction, but check it out from time to time. I’d love constructive feedback!

Carla Sonheim’s Art Camp

Yeah I’m toast from overdoing it the past few weeks. But I am so in love with Carla Sonheim’s childlike art techniques that I found myself signed up for all three of her Summer Art Camps: Imaginary Creatures, Faces 101, and Junk Mail Artist’s Book.

This week is Faces 101 (we are supposed to end up with 101 different faces in various media). I’ll include samples as I go.

The Two Towers – Freeing the GOP: Fun video

I like my political commentary funny. If you can embed it in The Lord of The Rings, so much the better. Click and enjoy!

The Two Towers – Freeing the GOP

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Easter House

"Easter House"

I had so much fun in my papermaking class. And got inspired in great directions, many of which connect with the work I used to do with fiber. More to come, for sure!

This is my piece for our vessel project. Created from handmade paper, Palm frond stems from Palm Sunday, Palm leaf ash mixed with beeswax, waxed linen thread, India ink. 9.75″ tall by 6.75″ wide by 6.25″ deep.

Spring Haute Dish is Out!

Haute Dish: Spring 2011 edition

Haute Dish: Spring 2011 is here! This is old news for those in the know – I’m behind, what with moving and packing and now unpacking. I have four pieces (!) in this issue —  I’m a lucky girl. It’s a gorgeous issue. Enjoy the entire thing online. Lots of good writing and art.

And call those in charge crazy, but I’ve been invited to become Managing Editor of this illustrious publication starting this summer! I am terrifically honored, excited, and happy.  And terrified. I mean, have you SEEN how cool this thing is? I have big shoes to fill. (And nice shoes too… the current Managing Ed. has great tasted in footwear.)