Back to Bowers

Last weekend I went to Bowers Museum in Santa Ana. They have an African Exhibition called "passages". There are wonderful photographs, films, masks, clothing and jewelry. I seem to be intreged with masks these days and figured they would go nicely in a grid. There was also a storyteller, sharing old stories from different tribes.

There were many beautiful carved statues and adorments for masks and containers.

The applique squares are from a ceremonial garment which really seemed to be a tent as you couldn't see anything of the person inside.

The jewelry was fasinating. These were made with leather, cowry shells, copper and glass beads. I would wear these but couldn't find any in the gift shop.

The mask is a Society Mask but it doesn't look so social to me.

This sketch was done from a large photograph. The veiled dancer was in mid twirl and I loved the flow of her many layers. It was a challenge but I give myself props on this one. I am happy with the results.

Robert Bateman Sketchbook

Pen and Watercolor

Winter Travels

I spent this Christmas and New Years with my mom and my sisters and their families in Washington. Thanks to Margaret who posted about a great display in Arizon of Dale Chihuly glass, we found an installation of his work in Tacoma, WA. Dale is from Tacoma and there is a lot of his work around the city. We also visited the Museum of Glass in Tacoma and were happy we had made the trip.

Eight of us ventured out early for the two hour ride to Tacoma. The Seymour Botanical Conservatory in Wright Park was host to many wonderful pieces of Chihuly Glass. Planted among the beautiful plants were spectacular colorful blown glass pieces. With the sun shining through the glass of the greenhouse, the sight was truely breath taking.

The next day my sister, Lynette, and I met up with our friend, Sydney, from a previous sketching trip. We went to the Portland Art Museum and spent some time in the Native Art Exhibit. The mask were fabulous and more than a little bit scarry.

I have always been intrigued by the Kochina carvings. Their wonderful shapes and designs are very spiritual for me. And who wouldn't want a Hopi Dance Wand! After sketching we went for, you got it, lunch! It was a great way to spend a very cold day and fun to visit and sketch with Sydney again.

Robert Bateman Sketchbook

Pen and Watercolor