Hidden Meanings, Parallels and Metaphors in Art

May 23, 2012

Always walk through life as if you have something new to learn and you will.”
~Vernon Howard 

My husband, son and I stumbled upon Vladimir Kush’s work at the Chalk Farm Gallery “The World’s Leading Gallery for Visionary Art” in Santa Fe, New Mexico. 

Kush’s metaphorical artwork grabbed me line, hook and sinker with symbolic images that tell stories through their relationships to each other.  Hidden meanings and unexpected likenesses and connections all combined into one composition left me with one puzzle to ponder after another. The parallels Kush draws between objects inspires the viewer to think creatively, abstractly and with great depth and insight. 

Each piece of work featured in The Chalk Farm Gallery compliments the theme of visionary art; spiritual and metaphysical in nature. Some of the other artists represented by Chalk Farm Gallery include:

  • Daniel Merriam
  • Robert Bissell
  • Michael Parkes
  • Tomasz Kopera 

If you are on the East Coast, Daniel Merriam will be featured at The Allentown Art Museum, At the Edge: Art of the Fantastic from June 3rd to September 9th, check it out. Fans of Maxfield Parrish will appreciate his work. You can see the influence in Merriam’s work. Merriam has several exquisite coffee table books, including “The Art of Daniel Merriam: The Eye of a Dreamer.” For more information, please visit this site http://bit.ly/KJIB99

We returned twice throughout the day to Chalk Farm Gallery. It was one of our favorites on Canyon Road. Fascinating work that none of us would thought we would have been particularly drawn to. We couldn’t help but appreciate the elements of carefully constructed thought that went into the making of each composition. 

To read about these artists and many creatives that are represented by Chalk Farm Gallery, please visit http://bit.ly/Jns3Qr.


Book Buzz

May 21, 2012

No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.” ~ Calvin Coolidge 

We are full of excitement here at Cornerstone Fulfillment Service, LLC! Spring means book awards. On Thursday evening,  four SHe Writes Steamboat members came away with EVVY awards from the Colorado Independent Publishers Association. The award ceremony and reception was held at the beautiful Lone Tree Art Center in Lone Tree, Colorado.

Trevor’s Boehm’s book Louie’s Saxophone won first place in the legacy category. Parents Leslie, Darnell and his sister Ali were on hand to accept the award. The sales of this very inspirational book go toward supporting NAMI – the National Association of Mental Health. http://bit.ly/L2BR1t.

Karen Gilroy’s book, Discovering the Healer Within took first prize in the Health/Fitness category. Karen is a RouttCounty resident fromHayden,Colorado. She also is business owner of All Natural. http://bit.ly/qRB1lm.

At Home in the Elk River Valley, by Mary B Kurtz took two prizes – a Merit award for cover design and an award in the category of Non-Fiction/Experience. http://bit.ly/K0d3u7.

Mission Possible by Dawn V Obrecht, M.D. garnered an EVVY award in the Legacy category. Mission Possible also recently won a Montaigne Medal at the Eric Hoffer Awards this spring. Congratulations are also in order for Dr. Obrecht’s release of her newest publication From the Edge of the Cliff, published in April 2012 by Richer Press. http://bit.ly/KnFqxW.

A total of 190 books were entered into s and can now add “award winning author” to their personal CVs.  To see where these books may be purchased, please go to each individual author’s websites.

Karen Gilroy, Dawn V Obrecht, M.D., Ali Boehm. Missing from photo Mary Kurtz

To read more about this event, please visit this link to the Steamboat Pilot article, published on May 19, 2012. http://bit.ly/K3xDtG.

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The Art of Book Display

May 17, 2012

“The whole of art is an appeal to a reality which is not without us but in our minds.” ~ Desmond McCarthy 

I’ve been known to buy a book on gardening or home decorating and design based on a single picture I liked! Crazy, you might say but, it is the truth of the matter. 

The other day, I began thinking of instances that have led me into the action of buying a book rather than just perusing the publication’s dust jacket. Finding an interesting book among other things that I like (complimentary products) has prompted me to buy. 

Some of the most successful bookstores I have ever entered, pull merchandising off real well. One year, all in one fell swoop, I created the best Mother’s Day present ever. I went into a great bookstore, and they had an attractive table display geared toward the gardener. Within a few minutes time, I had picked up a small, beautifully designed picture book of heirloom perennial flowers, some heirloom garden seeds,  Burt’s Bees gardener’s skin cream and soap, a garden hand tool and a garden container, perfect for creating a gift basket. Viola! I was all set. 

My decision of whether or not to buy that book was driven by the convenience and beauty of the display! Why not, everything I needed for a beautiful gift was right there. Booksellers, here is a good article on merchandising http://bit.ly/ggZDq3.

Some bookstores do a better  job of merchandising than others. A feature of “Book of the Month” with complimentary products may help drive sales. After all, in book selling you are trying to appeal to the heart and soul of the readers interests, are you not?  For instance, in the dead of winter, a cozy display of knitting books and yarns and other like accessories might just strike a chord. It is worth a try and  it will make for added interest among rows and rows of books, that make decision-making often difficult. 

The art of  the display could mean no investment at all,  just a extra little time and effort. An attractive arrangement of coordinating merchandise  and books already found throughout the store,  gathered into one creative display may bring added focus to the publications. Sounds like fun to me! A treasure hunt! Put the composition front and center and ask your customers how they like it. Perhaps when it is time to switch-up the display, raffle-off a small gift from the collection as a token of thanks for bookstore browsers. Could this be a way of identifying customers with niche market interests? It may help  determine what  flies. 

Independent thoughts, words and views from www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


EVVY Awards at the Lone Tree Art Center Tomorrow!

May 16, 2012

Feeling a part of that community is my greatest reward.” ~ Paul Parker

Last Saturday, I attended the last monthly meeting of the Colorado Independent Publishers Association meeting until September. It was well attended and members voted in the new Board of Directors for next year. Thank you to outgoing President Dan Miller, the Executive Director, Karen Reddick and the Board of  Directors for serving over the last year. Great strides were made over the past year by increasing membership and also in forming an e-book partnership with the Douglas County Libraries. Great job! 

Tomorrow night is the grand celebration of the year for the Colorado Independent Publishers Association.(CIPA).  The EVVY book awards will be held at the Lone Tree Art Center, in Lone Tree,Colorado. I am especially excited this year because we have finalists in the contest from our independent publishers group, SHe Writes Steamboat! Best of luck to the following authors: 

  • Trevor Boehm’s book Louie’s Saxophone submitted by Leslie & Ali Boehm
  • Karen Gilroy Discovering the Healer Within
  • Mary Kurtz At Home in the Elk River Valley
  • Dawn V. Obrecht, M.D.  Mission Possible

 A total of 190 books were submitted and judged for the EVVY Awards this year.All contestants all should be proud of their accomplishments of writing and publishing their books. From the list of finalists, it appears there will be some wonderful books added to the CIPA catalog;  titles that are unique and out of the ordinary – the beauty of independent publishing.

If you are someone who is considering independently publishing, I highly recommend that no matter what state you reside in that you research whether there is an independent publishing association that you can join. The benefit and support is well worth it.

Colorado is very fortunate to have one of the largest and most active independent publishing associations in the country.  To read about the benefits of becoming a member, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/w2f0gu.

I look forward to being at the EVVY awards tomorrow night. Next week, I hope to post some photographs of the event!

This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


A Beautifully Understated Sundance

May 15, 2012

Simplicity is nature’s first step, and the last of art.” ~ Philip James Bailey 

Last Thursday, on a magnificent, crystal-clear, blue morning, I made the short trek from Park City,Utah over to Sundance; a simply stunning  “enclave” for artists. The surroundings are awe-inspiring and rustic – beautifully understated. The natural environment has been left as undisturbed as possible. Tumbling, sparkling clean streams run between the outbuildings on the secluded, small mountainous woodland resort appropriately called “nature inspired.” 

During the height of the summer season, the art studio where professional potters, jewerly makers, photographers and glass blowers teach their craft, is a beehive of activity. Glassblowers create glassware from recycled glass. Unfortunately, I arrived two weeks too early to see the place abuzz;  it was “off-season.”  It was still a worthwhile trip and I nearly had the place to myself. 

The summer season will officially open with the 10th Sundance author’s series. On Saturday May 19th, Ann Packer, author of Swim Back to Me will be presenting her book, a drama-filled collection of stories, about one family, that is filled with psychological twists and turns. The book is said to make “the reader see situations with new perspective.” 

The event includes admission to the book presentation, a ticket for brunch and an autographed copy of Swim Back to Me. Lodging can be arranged by the resort. I am sorry I will not be in the area to participate. For more information and to obtain tickets, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/KIOTGZ

Also on the calendar this summer, during the weeks of July 23 to August 18th, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers will grace the stage at the Sundance Resort. http://bit.ly/mHZvlh. Musical events and a harvest market of artisan crafts in the fall will keep the property, previously Ute territory, busy. The inital acreage for the resort was purchased for $500 in 1960. Additional acreage was purchased in 1969 and developed by Robert Redford. To read about the history of Timphaven, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/J1CYDT

The drive from Heber City around Deer Creek Reservoir is so scenic. If you are ever in the area, take time to drive up to Sundance. Although seemingly private, it is only two miles off the well beaten path of State Route 189. 

That is all from the fulfilling art scene from the Wasatch Mountains in Utah. It was a great trip!

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Canyons of Art and Culture in the Wasatch

May 14, 2012

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” ~ Confucius  

Last week I had an enjoyable three days exploring the art scene in Park City and Sundance, Utah. Both places you’ll you find yourself nestled between steep canyons that have a high emphasis on nature, recreation, art and culture; literary, visual , performing arts and filmmaking. 

I came across two wonderful bookstores while exploring downtown, historic Park City. Dolly’s Bookstore http://bit.ly/dfGVjX  is a small, independent bookstore but the selection of titles was impeccable. The organization of the store was flawless with a cheerful, bright atmosphere.  They must have known I was coming! One of the first books I noticed as I walked into the store was a book that has been nagging at me for a long time, yet I have not read it. This time, without blinking, I bought! It has been said that it takes 10 times for someone to see a book before they decide to buy. I believe it! Good argument for the need for continual marketing! 

My book of my choice was Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott. What a surprise when I turned to the author’s bio. I discovered Anne Lamott studied writing at Goucher College http://bit.ly/huNMDI   - a University well-known for it’s outstanding writing program, in the town where I grew up -Towson, Maryland. Perhaps the reason so many have told me to read the book! 

The second bookstore was called the Expanding Heart http://bit.ly/KdulFo   - a retail place filled with books, music and other wares all focused upon spirituality and personal fulfillment; subjects such as angels, miracles, yoga, meditation, mysticism, religion, the power of attraction, miracles, chakras,  and much more filled the shelves. So much to absorb; I could have spent forever in that space. 

If you are ever in the area of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah, do stop by both Park City bookstores! Plan on extra time so you can visit historic Main Street in its entirety! Their retail establishments and restaurants, including Robert Redford’s Zoom are outstanding. I can understand why Park Cityand Sundance draws a huge audience to their annual film festival. It is a great place to visit or live! 

Tomorrow, I’ll give you an overview of my fulfilling trip to Sundance and an upcoming literary event which is scheduled for this coming weekend. More independent thoughts, words and views from www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Celebrate Teachers in a Dynamic Industry

May 8, 2012

Today is May 8th and it is Celebrate Teachers Day. Although it is not an easy thing for me to do, I am going to take this opportunity to be a little smug. I am feeling rather proud of myself! 

I have become something of a teacher. Who would have imagined it?  Over the course of the past few years, I have had a growing string of clients, both independent publishers and independent businesses who have hired me  to consult with them and teach them the ropes about this new dimension of advertising and promotion called e-marketing. It has been a fulfilling metamorphosis which has come purely as the result of using my creativity in writing, vision and thought.

My knowledge in the field has  not been entirely self-taught, however. I have had teachers along with way that I must acknowledge.  I have attended independent publishing conferences, seminars and on-line webinars; a real commitment. Today, I would like to say thank you to all the mentors that I have been exposed to over the past few years . I  greatly appreciate the inspiration you have given me.

Independent publishing will continue to be a dynamic , growing industry with more changes on the way. Working in the arts can be a life long and personally fulfilling journey. I am going to stay on-board!

A year or so ago, I had a wonderful opportunity, through the Colorado Independent Publishers Association, to meet motivational speaker Tama Kieves. She was awesome! Her presentation made it clear to me that we all need push for our passions , celebrate our successes, and give ourselves permission to pat ourselves on the back when we’ve made personal change. Check –out what she has to say in her books http://bit.ly/Vz1Bt.

If you are interested in learning how you can follow your dream of writing your own story or share your knowledge and expertise through independent publishing, I would suggest this on-line webinar published by the Colorado Independent Publishers Association. It starts with the basics! http://bit.ly/oIkV2g.

This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Worldwide Interest in Indie Publishing

May 7, 2012

It is not in the pursuit of happiness we find fulfillment, it is in the happiness of pursuit.” ~ Denis Waitley

What do the U.K., India, Australia, Macedonia, Russia and Canada have in common? These countries are only the start of the long list of countries that frequent this site. Over the weekend we reached a new landmark in readership – one that I would never have predicted when this blog was started. It’ s thrilling!

What does this tell us? About the internet’s ability to reach far and wide! It also tells me that independent publishing of books, films and music is, indeed, a hot topic of conversation in this age of digitally produced art content. Countries that endorse independent publishing, have common concerns. 

In July, the 2012 Yale Publishing Course will take place. Many global issues surrounding independent publishing will be addressed. The website Independent Publisher has featured an interview of YPC’s Director Tina C. Weiner. To read her interview which provides an overview of this year’s discussion, please visit http://bit.ly/I48Vd6.  To apply for the Yale Publishing course, designed for mid and upper level publishing professionals, please visit this link http://bit.ly/ln4cFX

Obtaining copyright permissions is just one of many issues that will be discussed at the YPC. A  perplexing and time consuming task, there are experts in this field who can steer you, such as Integrated Writer Services, LLC.  To view the website of Integrated Writers Services, LLC, please follow this link http://bit.ly/JRBnfW

Thank you to all readers who visit this blog site. Our objective is to share interesting, useful, and fun information for anyone who is interested in the topic of  independent publishing and finding fulfillment in the Arts. 

Return tomorrow for more independent thoughts, words and views from www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Master of Children’s Creative Imagery

April 30, 2012

To bring anything into your life, imagine that it’s already there. ~ Richard Bach 

On Friday’s blog, I reminisced about a popular TV character from the 1950’s – a nostalgic look back.  If you missed it, scroll below to the previous blog “The Power of Imaginative Intelligence.” 

The king of reaching children’s hearts through creative concepts and images is Disney! Although Mr. Disney himself is no longer with us in this world, his legacy lives on . The engine that powers all Disney Enterprises is a strong vision and knowledge about human imagination and intelligence. 

In May, a new theme park will open in Florida, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Children will no longer just dream about the world of their favorite animated characters as they sleep, they will have an even more fulfilling experience surrounded by  fantasy lands created inside the hotel rooms of the destination resort. http://bit.ly/9IAT5J

In Friday’s blog we also discussed the line of merchandise that developed as a result of the Howdy Duty Show; that’s smart business. Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) “is the world’s largest publisher of children’s books and magazines, reaching more than 100 million readers each month in 75 countries.” www.Disneystore.com  sells books, DVDs, art and other consumer products branded with the Disney trademark. 

Other independent publishers can learn from that! When in the development stage of your independent publishing project, think …Is it possible the theme of your book could be parlayed into another brand product? Consider that and use your power of imaginative intelligence to create.

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What is Your Focus?

April 26, 2012

 “Creative thinking is not a talent, it is a skill that can be learnt. It empowers people by adding strength to their natural abilities which improves teamwork, productivity and where appropriate profits.” –- Edward de Bono, creativity writer 

Back in February, as author of  All Things Fulfilling, I was featured on Ann Kochenberger’s “Out of Focus Again” website.  http://bit.ly/IpusLy.

Ann said this about my blog site “Her articles vary in subject matter so you never know what each day will bring.” I like that! She got it right. My primary focus is all things independent publishing. But art and inspiration tops the list, too. In fact, sometimes those subjects consume me. When you consider it, all are linked in with  creativity – independent words, views and thought. 

Many published authors shy away blogging and from social media marketing, in my opinion, a big mistake! Fewer and fewer companies and individuals are using direct mail and print advertising to promote their products and services to potential buyers.  E- Marketing provides opportunity for reaching large communities of people who are interested in the same thing you are – your product or service. Isn’t  that the objective,  if you want to sell your independent publications? 

What many independent publishers do not realize is that blogging and social media marketing is fun – an opportunity to use your creativity. Although it may seem like  there is an “out of focus again” variety of subjects that are on this website, believe me when I tell you, there is a method behind my madness. In fact, I am astonished at the number of followers from all over the world that have an interest in All Things Fulfilling. Thank you readers, for that! 

So, I will continue to share my passion for independent publishing, art and inspiration. Sometimes in my blogging,  I even manage to surprise myself. When that happens, I really feel as if I have hit the marc!

This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.