Come See My Current Group Show

Modest Fly Gallery through May 11
Angeles Crest Art Guild
All the women in this group are incredible artists.

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Photo Fun Downtown

My pal Keith Skelton is holding a photo workshop–shooting the streets of L.A.–on June 9.

Join me? $159

From Keith’s Website

 

 

LitFest Pasadena at Mountain View

LitFest Pasadena crossed the border and held a fundraiser at Altadena’s Mountain View Mausoleum last week.  Scenes from Shakespeare were played by Westridge, Mayfield, and Alverno students, and an A cappella choir from Marshall sang, led by David Pitts and featuring my pal Sonia’s son Austin.

Photos at http://bit.ly/zKjVRw

 

The Good Boy

Having seen more plays than I can count as a  professional reviewer for 16 years, it’s still a thrill to attend a show that profoundly stirs your heart and soul.

Michael Bonnabel does just that in his solo performance The Good Boy playing at LATC through May 22. Bonnabel, directed by Darin Anthony, pulls you into his bravely open, honest and emotional story of his unusual family—four hearing children who take on extraordinary roles because of the limitations of their deaf parents.

He signs some segments of the show, including his opening song, so it’s clear from the start you’re in for something special. His Danny Kaye-like qualities infuses his narration with vulnerability as he plays his deaf parents, himself as a child, his siblings and a few other memorable characters in the 90 minute show set mostly in the 1960s.

There’s not an empty, wanting moment in his performance—that feels more like a satisfying chat in his family’s living room. He clearly delineates his characters with charming, infectious detail and in the end shows home movies so we can see the humans of his affection for ourselves.

For those of us in the Pasadena area, the local references make the performance even more personal.  Aiding the impact of each emotional beat is the production team of set designer John Burton, sound designer Sloe Slawinski, and lighting designer Brandon Baruch. Their work enhances each emotional beat of Bonnabel’s rich tale.

Now stop reading and buy a ticket! I was delighted to see not only his performance full on opening night, the three other shows at LATC were bustling, too. In fact, downtown was hopping like it was Art Walk night. Go experience a life affirming love story.

Show is signed on certain performances. Performances are at 8 pm Thurs-Sat., 2pm Sun. LATC, 514 S. Spring St., L.A. 866-811-4111 http://www.thelatc.org

 

Valentine’s Day Gratitude

Deep thanks to Michelle Mills at the Star News for her story on my artwork and the upcoming show at Caltech. It’s especially important because I’m showing work dedicated to my late husband who inspired me beyond words.

I’m grateful I could so soon create some pieces in his honor. Hope you can make it to the show.

Caltech, Dabney Lounge

Feb 15-17 10am to 4 pm

Awards Reception Thursday, Feb. 17, 3 p.m. 

 Happy hearts to you all.

ShellLayer 

© debbi swanson patrick

 

Just 5 Days Left!

My current show of scannography is on display at Altadena’s Coffee Gallery through this Friday!

The show comes down on the 31st, so please stop by if you can. I’m now working on my next show which will be at Caltech Feb. 14-17. Here’s the story Justin Chapman wrote on Altadena Patch.

Thanks, Justin!

 

My Art Reception Dec. 16

 

Please join me Thursday, December 16, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the famed Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake, Altadena. See my latest photographic work–done without a camera–in “Telling Images.” Libations and frivolity to be had!

If the technical gods are with me, I’ll be demonstrating how I make these images. Bring exotic flowers or trinkets to be part of the artwork I create on site. Anyone who contributes will receive a digital file of the image!

 

TEDx comes to Caltech

 

 

Another Art on Palm October 30

Here’s the info on the next Art on Palm event. There is always great work at this event, so try to get out and enjoy this unique part of Altadena.

SECLUDED ALTADENA CANYON OPENS FOR FINE ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW:

ART ON PALM, FALL 2010— October 30^th, 9:00 – 4:30

Local artists and artisans will display their latest creations in a secluded private canyon garden at Art on Palm, Fall 2010, Saturday, October 30^th, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at 1419 E. Palm Street, Altadena, 91001.

The one-day-only show and sale features ceramics, collage, drawings, fabric, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography and woodcarvings.  Participating artists include: Stephani Anderson, Jane Asari, Julie and Rick Ayers, Karen Bagnard, Erica Batchelder, Evan Chambers, Catherine M. S. Cowles, Ellen Dinerman, Mary Jane Elgin, Kaylie James Wilson, Elisa Goodman, Lynn Hendricks, Jim Heuston, Beverly Jones, Diane Kolde, Susan Kromka, Ron Lawrenz, Dana Sue Miller, Katherine Nakazono, Diane Park, Lucia Pasquinelli, Detra Prete, Anne Sears, Maryrose Smyth, Kathy Spear, Susan Spinks, Kathleen Swaydan, Nancy Unruh, Anna Vosburg, Tris Wasserman, Lys Wilcox, Hitomi Yamamuro, and Lucia Yang.

Admission and parking are free. Light refreshments are available for sale.

Encircled by ancient oaks, the rustic canyon setting for Art on Palm is a restorative venue for guests and a stunning backdrop for the artists’ works. This is the 14th bi-annual fine arts and crafts show.  According to the event’s co-producer Mary Jane Elgin “This event benefits everyone. It brings talented artists and their finely crafted works to a discerning and appreciative clientele in a lovely setting.” 

Art on Palm, Fall 2010 also benefits the West L.A. Fisher House Foundation.  The artists donate a portion of their sales to this non-profit organization that provides humanitarian support for wounded military personnel and their families.  For more information about West L.A. Fisher House Foundation, please visit www.westlafisherhouse.org.

 

Golden Poppies are Calling

Greetings, I’m coming back online a bit at a time. Thank you to all who have been so kind and sent so many gifts and good wishes.  I certainly didn’t expect to suffer a loss like this, but it’s amazing to have so many friends at hand.

This weekend there are a lot of wonderful things happening around town. I’d hope to participate in the Gallery at the End of the World Altadena Artists Home Tour, but the time isn’t right. So go to the Gallery tonight and tour the houses this weekend! www.galleryattheendoftheworld.com.

On Sunday, attend the Altadena Heritage Golden Poppy Awards t see who has won for their sustainable/beautiful gardens. 4-6p.m. at 1101 Altadena Drive. $20 altadenaheritage@earthlink.net.

Ok, that’s it for now. My husband’s memorial is July 18 at Farnsworth Park where we were married, so I’ll write you after that!

Happy 4th!