Megan Caldwell Chandler

This week I created another accordion book.  This book was an exploration for me.  I wouldn’t call it a finished piece, although it’s as finished as it’s gonna get. 

I used the creation of this book to experiment with mark making.  Admittedly, that doesn’t sound very exciting, but it’s something that is hard for me to do.  I think drawing is similar to handwriting:  Everyone has a distinct handwriting style, and even when you attempt to improve or alter your penmanship, your style remains.  (Side note: For years, I tried changing my handwriting to be more neat/sweet/classic.  I finally just said, “fuck it,” and embraced my sloppy, sometimes cursive, sometimes print lettering.)  And now I’m trying to embrace my drawing style.  It is a strange thing, the way I always try to fight my default setting.  I see my own mark making and immediately think, “NOT GOOD! MUST CHANGE!”  Why is that?  Whatever the reason, I’m working on accepting my style.

My thoughts on mark making were spurred on this week by this amazing gift I received from my brother, Travis:

This is a hand-carved figurine of Tree Trunks, my favorite character from the show Adventure Time.   Travis and I both love the cartoon, and if you enjoy total insanity, then I’m certain you’ll love the show, too! 

It should be noted that Travis is a remarkable artist.  I’m currently trying my damndest to convince him to be a furniture maker….or wood carver… or sculptor.  What I love most about Travis’ work is his distinct mark.  Everything Travis makes carries that “thing” that is his artistic essence.  It’s hard to explain, but I know if you lined up 100 different artists’ carvings, I would have no problem pinpointing Travis’ amongst them. 

Thanks for indulging my show-and-tell.  Your reward for patience is this clip of Tree Trunks.