Turning towards 2026

Hello my friend, it's that time of year when we reach for.... night time activities, remembrance of loved ones, indoor endeavors and carbs.

Celebrating Mattie and Ruby's amazing new deck, Mary's poignant spiral of flowers at the Wetlands and the first winter potatoes.

Attending the SOMOS/Percolator Day of the Dead celebration in North Lawrence was sacred and so full of community and color.

Participating in a remembrance afternoon for our mothers brought me closer to my sweet friends

Art Guild Friends and I made some amazing sunflowers for our Festival of Trees creation this year. What a great group of people and such a charming tree this year.

I taught a few classes here in Lawrence and a few in Denver this fall - what a kick to meet so many new people and spend time with friends and family.

Can you see those tiny tiny forks?

My lovely host: Jan

My lovely host: Jan

We had an amazing political show at Art Emergency where I found my strip-y brothers.

I participated in the 2026 cohort of Artist Leadership Fellows through the Mid-America Art Alliance as well as the pilot program of Pollinator, meeting people from all over the US.

Photo by Susan Wolfe

I even explored a new sort of dress that has been knocking around in my mind.... one which incorporates environmental themes. This one is a study of a Tall Grass Prairie plant, the False Bonset whose roots reach 9-10 feet into the soil. The roots on the dress are free standing (hanging) embroidered in two colors and the layers of dirt ("soil horizons" I've been corrected) have illustrations of some of the prehistoric dinosaurs found in our region.

It has been another humbling time of year as I opted to finally get the cataract surgeries I needed. The procedures went well and I am healing fine, I just have to adjust to a new reality and have to be really really patient with the process. Those of you who know me understand what a challenge it can be. However, the colors, the COLORS - such a joy to be able to see into the distance, and for the explosion of colors in the world once you remove the extra yellow and let all the blues back in.

Come see me in person this winter at two different venues: First weekend in December at my studio in Art Emergency and the next weekend at Cider Gallery. I'll have loads of affordable holiday earrings, wonderful paper house making kits, embroidered postcards and of course many paper garments. I'll have a brand new roster of classes to share (please consider giving the gift of experience this year) and as always, the magic words: "Bostons in a Suitcase" will garner you a free gift.

Don't forget your food donation for Just Food at Art Emergency on December 6 and 7

If you've read this far, thank you and happy turning of the year to you. I am grateful for the forces that slow me down, the thoughtful reflection of those around me and the continuity of life.

May you always find your way home.

Hug your loved ones and I'll see you soon.

Liza