these days

"These days I seem to think a lot
About the things that I forgot to do
And all the times I had the chance to"
- Johnny Darrell, These Days

The end of the year always makes one look back and take a measure of what was accomplaished and what wasn't. 2010 was a mixed year for my work. There were duds and missed deadlines --- Ordinary Objects is still not realized, and the portfolio remains unassembled.

On the other hand, there were positive developments --- the Bullock Online website was established, my Iron Gall Ink is now retailing at Lore (see my previous post), and some of my work this year was solid.

So I sat down and looked out the window again at the landscape view that has occupied much of my time lately and I did one more watercolor. Also, here's a recent sketch of a wider take of the same view, from my sketchbook.

I guess that's how I'll close out the year.

Hoping you all are safe and healthy in 2011.

Happy New Year, everyone.

Bullock's Iron Gall Ink

Bullock's Iron Gall Ink is now available at Lore, in the The New Amsterdam Market HEADQUARTERS at Manhattan's South Street Seaport, 224 Front Street.

This handmade water-soluble ink is based on historic recipes, and includes gall nuts from Aleppo and iron sulfate in a gum arabic base. It is available in 1/2 oz., 1 oz., and 2 oz. bottles.

At Lore, owner Makalé Faber-Cullen's background and education in anthropology informs her selection of products that are based on raw materials and timeless design. From equipment for the kitchen, to sewing supplies from France's last producer of hand-made thread, to Bullock's Iron Gall Ink and Margaret Krug's Indigo Ink, Lore offers a very unique and educational shopping experience for the customer who wants something better than what's available at Bed Bath & Beyond.

You can also reach Lore online at www.lore.is
Lore. tools. ornaments. provisions.

My thanks to Makalé and Margaret for their enthusiasm for Bullock's Iron Gall Ink.

Graphic Design for all Bullock Online packaging is provided by James Rollins Design of Brooklyn, NY. www.creativehotlist.com/jrollins

On a related note, the Bullock Online website is oh so slowly coming along. I just added a page for the ink, and will link to PayPal. All this shouldn't be such trial and error, but the hosting service I use is problematic. Nonetheless, I am learning to navigate the strange ways of their software. I often end up with results I don't want, but I make improvements the next time round.

Now, if I can only find the time to paint.

Merry Christmas, everyone.