University Art - Newsletter

The Community Artist

University Art Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 2, June 2002

ART ORGANIZATIONS SPOTLIGHT

This month's focus is on the East Valley Artists Association. East Valley Artists is an intimate group of artists (about 70 or so). More than half that number are active exhibiting artists. The group runs the gamut of artistic styles and media and boasts some very well known artists. Known for its warmth and fellowship as much as for its talent, East Valley sets an enviable standard in the local art community. Meetings are the fourth Tuesday of every month at the First Church of the Nazarene at 4801 Alum Rock Avenue, San Jose at 7:30 p.m. All Welcome!

Contact: Mary Mints (408 251-4369 for info or Valerie Tomasetti (408)251-5489

COMING SOON

It is that time of the year and the festivals are in full swing. The A.V.A. Show at the Triton Museum of Santa Clara on 6/1 & 6/2/02. The Mountain Art Guild Exhibit at the Radonich Ranch, Santa Cruz on 6/8 & 6/9/02. The Union Street Art Festival on Union Street in San Francisco on 6/1 & 6/2/02. The Marin Art Festival, Lagoon Park, San Rafael on 6/15 & 6/16/02 (415) 388-4836.

If you have info on up-coming shows that you want posted, e-mail snjbram@aol.com.

TRIVIA AND STUFF JUST FOR FUN

Did you know that the "caput mortem" family of colors originated by grinding up the bandages/wraps of ancient mummies? Lamp black was originally the scorched soot left by a candle flame on a rigid surface. Gamboge had its origins in the urine of various animals. Aren't you glad things change?

ASK BRAMSCHANDOZ

Q: What is meant by casein paint?

A: Casein is a group of proteins arrived at by lightly acidifying milk. It is the primary component of cheese (80%) and is lightly soluble in water (more so with alkaline or acid based solvents/thinners). These proteins are combined with pigments to create casein or "milk" paints.

JEFF'S TIPS

Make use of the open or negative areas of you composition to accurately draw and fill out the areas of your piece, resulting in a greater sense of unity for that piece.