Lake Marie, Wyoming by Korey Steffen, my grandson
July was a month of unexpected sadness and perseverance. At the end of June my husband, Karl was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer. He chose to remain at home under Hospice care. My family came to help and spend precious time with him. My daughter, Kris, a registered nurse became the link between our family and Hospice. She knew what to do and gently guided us through each step. Together, with the Hospice nurses, we cared for Karl as a team.
Karl passed away on July 15. Although we miss him deeply, I find comfort in believing he is now at peace with the angels.
My classes at Trinity Lutheran Church continued while I was on leave. I asked one of my students, Ellen Peppas to coordinate the classes and she did a wonderful job. Each week I sent her ideas to share with the group. The first week I sent a box of frames for the students to create 5×5 artworks. The following week, they learned about Ludwig Bemelmans, the author and illustrator of the Madeline books. I also shared a monthly sketching challenge from Ian Fennelly. Most recently, I sent ideas for designing a garden, along with sketches from a book on South African gardens.
Sketches I did from an old book “Patterns in the Garden” by Marjorie Wille. This was a Class exercise in designing a garden.
Although my time in the studio was limited, I was able to begin planning a new mixed-media collage based on a photograph of Lake Marie in Wyoming. I completed several thumbnail sketches and even managed to create an Instagram reel. I look forward to returning to my Monday classes and spending more time in the studio.
Thumbnail sketch of Lake Marie that I did for determining the composition for the collage
I also dropped off several new greeting cards at the Hub on Canal. If you are visiting, please stop in and take a look. I will also be hanging new artwork there during August.
“Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and prayers during this difficult time.”
Stay connected: www.EvyOkerstrom.com / eokerstrom22@gmail.com