Kickstarter Project is Rolling On

My teeny little kickstarter project is fully funded now with twenty days to go before it ends. This confirms my suspicion that I should have made it about a ten day funding period--but I didn't so-oh-well. Kickstarter is such an interesting idea, 'crowd funding' and all. One never really knows what will appeal to folks. I'm glad this has grabbed y'all's attention. This is my third successful project (of course it really will be a success when I finish and distribute the Cat Scratchin' book and the above posters) There is nothing to stop further funding, in fact I welcome it. The more the merrier. I'm only printing the posters for this project, in other words they won't be available anywhere else, so if you want/like them you've got to get them now. There is just a little confusion at the kickstarter site (mostly because Mercury IS Retrograde--Don't judge--I'm a believer!) so I put numbers on the posters so click above to look more closely and then pledge away here until the end: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1547701634/dog-scratchin-limited-edition-posters-for-your-wal
On a side note--today is one of those days when I just feel out-of-sorts, or maybe out of my body or mind! I don't know what it is, maybe waking up around 4:30am and tossing in and out of sleep, or the fact that the weather is so nice that now I'm thinking that I could stay here in Northwest Arkansas. Last year and even the year before it was Texas-Hot for most of the summer. I'm trying to get away from that heat, so imagine my surprise when it happened here. I'm restless, wondering what's next. Ok, I know what's next...finish the Cat book and these posters, but I mean, after that? I always have a plan, and when I don't I get a little cranky and bent out of shape and even a little lost....
So, here's to today and all of the elements it contains, I'll change what I can, and roll with the rest. If you have questions about the projects give me a holler. Also, I love commissions so if you have a favorite dog (or cat) or hell, any critter, give me a chance to scratch it out for you!
And NO, just in case you were wondering, the numbers are NOT on the posters in real life, just here, okay?

Kickstarter Poster Project Funding Over Halfway There!

Just thought I'd show you a crappy, kind of blurry phone photo (you get the idea) of all four posters framed in cheap, cheap poster frames from a big box hobby store. These were around $7.00 each and I used the coupon for two of them (2 different visit purchases...) so all four were under $20.00. Cool eh?
Any-o-how, just wanted to let y'all know that we're sitting at 53% funded with 23 days to go. Yay posters! Yay Dogs! Please take a look-ee-see here and maybe you want some too! It's easy. You can buy in for as little at $15.00 or get all four for $45.00. That's all folks!!
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1547701634/dog-scratchin-limited-edition-posters-for-your-wal?ref=small_projects

It's A Good Day In Linda-Land!

These two are super cute. This artwork didn't end up in the book. It was just an exercise in being loose and fun. It's Ampersand Art Scratchboard. 5x7 inch.
I'm happy. The kickstarter project (click here to see) is just under halfway funded. There are 26 days to go. If I don't raise the full amount of a mere $550.00 I get nothing. That's ok. I can live with that. I'd rather not though. I'd like to see my 4 posters go out into the world and make people happy. That's all I'm asking for. Just a little hint of success. The other day I was lamenting to a friend about art sales being down and she said, 'well, you can always go back to plumbing.' Uh, no, I can't. I spent almost thirty years crawling around under houses, in tight attics and trying to fit myself into impossible spaces, all while either making fire with a torch(and trying to not burn the house down) or woman-handling a couple of pipe wrenches. Don't get me wrong, it was a great trade. I'm happy I did it. I'm happy I at least tapped the top of my head on the glass ceiling in the trades. But the reality is, I'm older now, and I can't do what I once did. The last major project I did was help a friend build her house from the ground up. I was 50 then, and it was hard, but I could still do it without killing myself. Not any more. I have constant neck pain from bulging discs and bone spurs. I'm happy to still be able to handle scratchboard drawing all day long, every day.  Not feeling sorry for myself, just my reality. So I follow my art muse. Right now it's the books, who knows what it will be next year.
Please take a look at my project and see if you have any interest, or if you know someone who might. Thanks! Follow your dream, even if it leads you on a curvy path.

Dog Scratchin Poster Project Is Live For Funding

Here are posters #1 and #2 of the four limited edition Dog Scratchin' Posters. I just launched the project on kickstarter. Take a look at it here and share with your dog lovin' friends. #dogs #dogscratchin  and so forth. Thanks!
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1547701634/dog-scratchin-limited-edition-posters-for-your-wal

Almost Time To Launch The Dog Scratchin' Kickstarter Project...

Here's a little treat for those of you who have bought the Dog Scratchin' book. This is the poet Miller Williams reading his poem from the book; Some Lines To A Dog Who Doesn't See The Difference. 
I'm gearing up to launch the poster project with all of the artwork from the book on kickstarter this coming Sunday at high noon Central Time. Stay tuned.
In the meantime, enjoy listening/watching the poet deliver his poem. It's used here with his permission. The video copyright is mine with all rights reserved so please don't use without my permission. The quality is just about as good as I could get with my android phone. Still, nothing like hearing it in the writer's voice. Cheers!

Dog Scratchin' Poster #4

And finally, here is #4 of the series of four posters. They will only be available at my kickstarter project which is set to launch this Sunday June 23rd and it will run for 30 days. Don't worry, I will put it up here, and on facebook, plus tweetin' and instagramin' and what ever else I can do to promote it. It's a quick, fun project. I just want to see if any of you out there would be interested in having one or more or all 4 of these posters. I hope so!

Dog Scratchin' Poster #3

The Dog Scratchin' limited edition poster project has been submitted to kickstarter and now I wait for them to approve (or not) before launching in a week or so. I've been living with one of the series hanging on my wall, framed in a simple cheap frame from the big box hobby store and it looks good! Meanwhile I'm still working on the cat book (and believe me, wrangling cats is much harder than dogs, no surprise, right?) No judgment, just fact.
Once again, the layout of the posters was done by the amazing artist Chad Maupin at Big Bot Design. I can barely operate photoshop, let alone try to put more than one image on a page...
It's a lovely day in Northwest Arkansas, especially in the house with AC going.

Dog Posters-#2

This is poster #2 of the series of 4 dog posters. Yesterday I worked on the kickstarter video with Anh Dao Kolbe who helped keep me in frame/focus while I talked about the project. And just so you know, Chad Maupin of Big Bot Design in Fayetteville took all of the images from the Dog Scratchin' book and put them together in these sweet 11"x17" posters. And thanks to him, the printing is local too. He's also a really talented scratchboard artist.  I'm fixin' to submit this project to kickstarter sometime this week, with a launch planned sometime next week. This kickstarter project will be the ONLY place to find these posters as I'm going to limit the number printed to however many I need to fulfill the project rewards.
The project will run for 30 days...during Mercury in Retrograde(google it). (although it starts BEFORE the retrograde and ends after) Those of you who know anything about me know that I am somewhat (ok, really more than somewhat) superstitious about these things.  I'm going to try it though, I can't put my life on hold for some astrology event--That's my new way of looking at things.
Here we go------

Dog People-I'm Planning Something!

For those of you who liked the idea of creating a poster (or other cool products)with the dog art from Dog Scratchin' book...I'm just about to launch a kickstarter project to fund the printing of four different 11"x17" posters with twenty dogs to a poster. Stay tuned, I hope to be live sometime next week. In the meantime, I'm working on the cat version of the book like mad. It's going to be just as fun and colorful as the dog book, although cats don't smile much! Or maybe their smiles are understated...

Magical Night

I'm pretty excited tonight. Got to see Shawn Colvin and Mary Chapin Carpenter in concert at the Walton Arts Center tonight. It was an amazing performance. Much like being in their living room with them, as they chatted and played and sang and chatted some more. If you have a chance to see them in this series of concerts--go.
I was with friends and we managed to meet Mary before the concert. I even handed her a Dog Scratchin' book and had the road manager give one to Shawn. Pretty sweet. She was gracious and dear. Ok. I'm up later than usual. Suffice to say, things are good. I have about 180 books left (out of the original 500) so if you want one or two you need to get your order in soon. I've got them up at my etsy shop and of course you can just contact me via here or the www.blue-eyedponystudio.com website and I'll get on it.

Oh, yeah, a sad note; Dottie (above) who is in the book recently had to be put down. She had a good, long life, and her people are understandably sad, I am too. Feb. book sales percentage will be sent to the Maryland Shelter that she originally came from.
Thanks a heap for everything all y'all. And be watching for the Cat Scratchin' Book. It fully funded and I'm just at the beginning of gathering stories and photos to draw from. Will be out in the early Fall.

Dog Book Feedback

I just got an email with the following feedback from someone who gave the book as a gift to several friends.

I love this book so much that I take it with me to all three of my dialysis centers and prop it up not far from my computer terminal because the cover is so cheerful to look at. Then, if I need a break I read two or three stories from it. I just showed it to one of our registered dieticians, and she loved it too. At first she said she only had a minute but she couldn’t stop looking at it and commenting on it. It was fun. I really love this book and I’m really glad you thought to send me a copy.

Kris

 

That's it for now...

 

Animal Rescue Groups

Yesterday I sent out some books to a NY rescue group, Tuff Tails. I've been following them on facebook and they do great work, so I packed up 5 books and sent them on their way. Check them out at here. They get 100% of the proceeds. It's all a part of my spreading the Dog Scratchin' joy. More books to go out to other groups this week. The above photo is a dog I drew this past December as a commission. It's a 5x7 Ampersand Art Scratchbord. I had tons of fun doing this and several other different dogs for this person. The Cat Scratchin' version of the book is currently funding at kickstarter, check it out here. Funding will end Feb. 13th. I'm biting my nails on this, slow going...I really want it to happen. Where are the cat owners??? So far the dog owners have won the race. Shaking my head.

Christmas Is Done Let's Go!

Pay no attention to that awful wallpaper in the background. Around January one, I jumped in--full on--into making folk art birds from misc. pieces parts from my wood scrap pile. This is just a few of them, there are a total of 18 right now....and I don't think I'm done yet. It's all part of my "using up" everything around me. The color is from acrylic artists paints (when I imagined I might be a painter) The pieces are from games, and crap I have picked up over the years, or left overs from other building projects. I'm even using nails that I bought in bulk at an auction in Northern Indiana nine years ago. (I was there taking care of my dying Father and took a break in the daily grind. Certainly one of the strangest things I've bid on and won at auction.)
I'm about to launch the Cat Scratchin' book at kickstarter...waiting for their approval, don't worry you will hear all about it. Feb. has 5 different scratchboard classes planned. Will do another blog with those locations and dates next week. Until then, these birds want to fly out of here to your house. Some are already sold, drop me a line if you're interested in one or two or three. They are $55.00 each + shipping. Most are around fourteen inches high, although last night I put together some teeny tiny ones, cute. I'm about to put together a class proposal for the spring at Eye Of The Dog Art Center. Will keep you posted on that too.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year y'all! I'm celebrating a bit ahead of myself, but it's almost here. 2012 has been a great year for my art. The above scratchboard drawing was an 8"x10" commissioned Christmas present. (Used Ampersand Scratchbord and inks)Magaidh was also one of the dogs in the Dog Scratchin' book, and there is a different drawing of her in it. I feel so grateful for having the support of all of you who participated in the kickstarter project. That support allowed me to assemble my book of drawings of your dogs. I thank you all so very much!
Now, during the cold weather when I'm hunkered down in my warm house I'm putting together the Cat Scratchin' version of the kickstarter project. It will launch soon. Those of you who have both dogs and cats stay tuned. Well, actually, all of you should stay tuned. If there is enough interest I may do another version of the dog book in the future. I love giving books and money away to rescue groups! I'm so happy to have been able to give over $800.00 in money and books just since October. That to me is success. December recipient is PAWS of Beaumont, TX. Shipped the books and check to them yesterday. 3 of the dogs in the book were rescued by them. Good work!

Last Minute Dogs

Hey folks, all is good here in *Linda-Land*. I'm still selling Dog Scratchin' books like crazy. Just wanted to give you a heads up...if you want to buy a book(s) for Christmas gifts, or even commission a custom piece of art, get with me soon. Like, today or tomorrow. Post a comment here and we can make it happen.  I promise I will work hard to get it shipped to you before the holiday. If you are in NW Arkansas I can hand-deliver, but you must contact me right away. This month's 10% of sales proceeds are going to a group in Beaumont, Texas called *PAWS*.  I've already sold quite a few books this month, but would love to sell more so I can give more to this group. I'm starting to get geared up on the Cat Scratchin' project. Will keep y'all posted. Thanks, and have a lovely day!
The above is dear departed "Sister", and her brother "Cletus" in his fancy shirt. It's a 5x7 scratchboard drawing on Ampersand bord, with inks. Sold.

Goal Met-New Goals

For those who follow me here rather than the kickstarter site, here is the latest update.


Hello my dear, sweet, backers of Dog Scratchin'. Just to let you know, my trip to Austin for the signing event at Wally Workman Gallery was very successful. We sold 43 books in two hours!! I got to meet many of you for the first time. And I saw many old friends. It was a thrilling,action packed,  blur of a night. Thanks to all who came out~It was pretty darned special. I've always had a goal in mind of having at least half of the 500 books gone by the first of the year.  Today's count proved that goal has already been met. I've got around 235 books left to sell and distribute.
If you would like to buy additional books (esp. for gifts) at $25.00 each, please let me know soon.(like really soon) I ship via USPS. One copy ships for $5.50 Two for $9.00 Three and above I can pack about 8 books into a flat rate box for $13.00. My mailing address (if you want to go "old skool" with a snail mailed check) is PO Box 8963 Fayetteville, Arkansas 72703-0017
I've had some questions about distribution to Rescue Orgs. for fundraising and such. I would love to get some out to different groups around the country. Here's the best way to do that; Have them contact me at Lcsheets1@yahoo.com and we can work out arrangements. What I have found is many groups either don't have room, events, energy or ability to sell books. I do not want to add to their load in any way...kind of like how the Red Cross prefers money donations rather than canned goods or your old clothes after a disaster; many dog rescue groups need funds and volunteers rather than auction or sale items. I'd like to talk with them and see how the book can be used to help them.
Just so you know, I have already (in two months of sales) been able to distribute over $500.00 to several groups. And I've made just a bit of money to help cover my costs of spending 8 months on this project. One thing I did learn is that I need to build something into the kickstarter fundraising for my time and labor (duh)...I'm ok, but it was a little tight while putting this all together. :-)  I have spent every dollar raised here on printing, design and shipping.
I'm busy at work putting together the Cat Scratchin' book video and text with plans to launch in January. I've learned a lot that will help to make this an even better and bigger project. I hope that you will join me, even if you don't have a cat, if you share the info with friends and family who do, it will help to make it a huge success.
I am so grateful for all of you and your participation in this project. I could not have done it without you. I hope your holidays are wonderful. The past year has been exceptional for me, thanks to all of you.
XX- Linda
NOTE: If you don't want to do the snail mail/old skool check route, I do have an etsy shop and you can buy books by clicking here.
My new goal is to have most of the remaining books either sold or in rescue groups hands to sell by Feb.  I think it is entirely possible. Why not?
I'm busy working on several commissions that must be done and shipped before Christmas. I'm well on my way to being finished sometime this week. Will share some of those AFTER the holidays. Don't want to spoil any secrets!

Gratitude And Giving

Because of last month's Dog Scratchin' book sales I was able to drop checks off to Fayetteville Animal Shelter and For Pets' Sake Springdale. I was absolutely giddy with delight! I wish I could say that I gave huge amounts of money, but it's a start. And as I know from working with these groups, every little bit helps. I am so happy to have been able to draw these dogs and tell their stories. Every day I hear really great feedback from someone who has read, or started to read the book. I love that. Making this book opened up a place in my heart that had been resting awhile. It wasn't closed off, or dormant, it was just waiting for the right time to wake up and get busy.
Now that I've ticked that off the list, I'm working on the Cat Scratchin' project, which I hope to launch on kickstarter in January.
A percentage of this month's proceeds will be going to Austin Pets Alive. I'll add up this weekend's sales at Eye of the Dog Art Center and then drop a check off on Monday. If you happen to be in the Austin, TX area, San Marcos is just a short drive away. Billy Ray and Beverly throw a really great show/party in a sweet country setting. Click on their link for directions and more information.
And, oh yeah, Happy Happy Thanksgiving! I plan to eat a lot of good food with good people. And I will thank my lucky stars that I have such a fortunate life. Enjoy your day!

Delivering Dog Art and Books

Today I met up with the folks of "Fozzie" and "Libby".  We had lunch and laughs, and even found out we knew several people in common...one of the things I have always really loved about Austin. If I don't say it enough, I want all to know how much I enjoyed drawing their dogs and telling their stories. It was and is an honor and priviledge (and really darned good fun). I love the connections.
This time tomorrow night I will be signing books, handing out art work and "rewards" from the kickstarter project. Seeing old friends and meeting new.  And...I hope raising a bit of dough for Austin Pets Alive!
Of these two dogs, Fozzie is no longer around (but clearly was much loved by his folks) Libby is getting up in years, but still going strong.

Come to Wally Workman Gallery

This is Mirabelle, also known as Monsterbelle. Reportedly she will be attending the book signing this Tuesday from 6-8pm at Wally Workman Gallery on W. 6th St. in Austin, Texas. I can hardly wait to meet new folks, their dogs and see old friends. I'll be distributing some of the artwork from the book to those who pledged at the kickstarter project, plus selling books and other artwork. I'm giddy with excitement. The other reason is that 10% of the sales will be given to Austin Pets Alive rescue group. Wally and Rachel are so kind as to not only host this event, but they are participating in the 10% donation. I love to be able to give to such great groups doing such great work.
Today I also went to Kirchman Gallery in Johnson City, Texas for their holiday event. I met some super nice people and left some books there to sell. If you are in the Johnson City area on your way to the Hill Country you should stop by. They have a really great variety of art and artists in there..plus they also do wine tasting.
The weekend after Thanksgiving I'll be out in San Marcos at Eye of the Dog Art Center at their home show, which is a truly special and fun event.
So happy.

Doggie Feedback

I've been getting some really great emails from the folks who have received their books and artwork. This is Maggie with her original art.  I think she likes it! What a sweetheart. Her story in the book is really dear.
 I'm happy to report I dropped off two checks last week, one to the Fayetteville Animal Shelter and the other to For Pets' Sake Springdale. I split 20% of October sales between them. It wasn't tons of money, but it was something. I was absolutely giddy with delight. I love spreadin' joy!
Next Tuesday (Nov. 13th) from 6-8 I'll be at Wally Workman Gallery selling books and art and distributing rewards to kickstarter funders. Now Wally would tell you that I usually dash out the door during show openings if there are too many folks in the room. I promise I won't do that on Tuesday. I will hang in there with all y'all. A portion of the proceeds from the night are going to the Austin Pet's Alive rescue group, so let's fill the place and make some $$ for those great folks!