Introducing Stevie French, Curator.

I really need to get to work.  And I do realize the irony of a post where I complain about the fact that I have not worked on anything in awhile.  I could definitely be doing some art right now.  Because listen to all these great plans I have!

But first, rewind. I gave another illustration lecture to some classes at Temple University last Thursday.  It went well, again! I think this is going to be a semesterly thing, which is fine by me.  I love having all that time to talk about my favorite subject (me). It was fun to have an actual finished book this time; last time I only had the messed-up proofs to show.  I even sold a book, and one very Gracious Benefactor who will remain anonymous even bought up my entire current stock of greeting cards (don't worry, I'll make more!). 

But wait there's more.  This very same person, who owns the bookstore where I had my signing party last year, invited me to be in several upcoming shows with very exciting, specific themes.  This means I need to get to work!  I am feeling very inspired by the topics though.  It almost reminds me of when I got a particularly cool assignment in college that I couldn't wait to "solve."  I say solve because I think a lot of art is a problem that needs a solution, like math only not terrible.  The problem is usually how to express yourself given certain limitations, like a theme or the materials.  I think that's why I like illustration so much--I like figuring out the best solution to something creatively.  It's the most satisfying thing in the world (besides chocolate cake). 

And last but not least, as evidenced in the title of this post, here's the really exciting news: I've been invited to curate an illustration exhibition at the main art gallery in Oxford!  It won't be until next fall, but I am beside myself with excitement.  It truly was a fateful day when I decided to attend a meeting of the Oxford Arts Alliance.  What great friends I have in the art world!