The Stories Just Keep Growing

So much is happening right now that it feels like summer is flying by.

The Cadillac show was absolutely lovely but a bit smoky early on due to the wildfires. It was one of those weekends that leaves me feeling grateful to share my vision with others. Now, only Labor Day’s Art in the Park in Port Austin remains as my final outdoor show of the season. How did summer disappear so quickly?

August also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. I’ll be launching a new weekly feature on the website, so be sure to read Northwood News below for a sneak peek. If you’re headed north, Reflections of the AuSable at the AuSable Artisan Gallery in Grayling is still on display, so stop in if you’re in the area.

Behind the scenes, I’m putting the finishing touches on a brand-new book. (What?!) I have the proof copy of An Ogemaw County Year in my hands and I’m discovering plenty of little spelling errors but that’s exactly what proof copies are for. There’s still plenty of time before the September 1 launch, and it’s exciting to see the project finally becoming a real book.

I’ll also be updating the website with fresh inventory and adding several new paintings this week, so check back later for a look at the newest work.

Between the heat wave and preparing for the show in Cadillac, there was a real sense of urgency in the studio this past week. Mornings started early while the studio was still cool, making the most of those comfortable hours before the afternoon heat settled in.

No matter how prepared I am, every art show seems to awaken the same quiet voice that whispers, “You need more.” Thankfully, I’ve learned not to listen too closely. Instead, I keep painting a few more snapshots and bookmarks until the inventory boxes feel full. I also managed to finish a beachy chair painting AND a demo painting for a class coming up in Alpena. More soon.

The happy side effect is that nothing goes to waste. Any new snapshots and bookmarks that don’t find a home at the show will be added to the website later today and maybe early this week, giving you first pick from all the new pieces as well.

I’ve got something exciting planned for NORDmi.com in August.

Many of you have probably noticed my dad, Charles Stockwell, in the comments each week. He’s the one who never misses a post, and it just so happens that he is a writer! He’s generously agreed to share some of his beautifully researched articles on Michigan’s plants, ecosystems, and history on the website.

I’ll be making a few changes to the site later this week, so you’ll get a sneak peek before everything officially launches on August 2. Because these seasonal articles will be updated weekly throughout August, I’ll shorten this section of the newsletter and simply share a direct link to the newest story each week. It’s a new experiment, and I’d love to hear what you think as it unfolds.

In the meantime, summer continues to write its own stories around the studio. The robins have tucked away a second nest of eggs somewhere nearby. Antlions are patiently building their tiny sand traps along the west side of the house, and a blue-tailed five-lined skink makes an appearance most hazy mornings near the rain barrels that water the flowers. The afternoons hum with cicadas while indigo buntings flash brilliant blue between the trees and monarchs drift along the edges of fields and riverbanks. Despite the heat and the smoke Michigan saw this week, summer continues on.

If you’re reading this, you’re already where I most like to share my work. Thanks for being here in this slower space. I’ll see you next week. Until then, If you’d like to follow me on TikTok, Instagram and/or Facebook, please do, I post regularly.

Warmly,
Laura
NORDmi.com