ISSUE No . 43
From the
Editor
ROBIN BISHOP
Robin Bishop is Art Chowder ’ s editor in chief . She loves a challenge and has an affinity for asking questions that invite innovative solutions to individual and team challenges . She possesses a deep aversion to a “ We ’ ve always done it that way ” existence . Robin has a diverse background , but her passion is writing and bringing others ’ stories to life . She holds a bachelor ’ s degree in Professional and Creative Writing from Central Washington University and master ’ s degree in Organizational and Change Leadership from Gonzaga University .
robin @ artchowder . com
Happy New Year , my beloved Chowderheads ! Wow , 2023 ! I don ’ t know about you , but for me nothing sings New Year like the sour notes of the previous year fading with the setting sun , followed by a fresh sunrise carrying a melody of hope and incredible harmonies of light and possibility . To borrow a verse from Van Morrison ’ s “ Brand New Day ,” recorded in the year of my birth (? anyone ?) which was just a groovy year all around .
“ When all the dark clouds roll away And the sun begins to shine I see my freedom from across the way And it comes right in on time Well it shines so bright and it gives so much light And it comes from the sky above Makes me feel so free Makes me feel like me And lights my life with love
And it seems like and it feels like A brand new day ”
We hope our first issue of 2023 brings you the same feelings of beauty in the possibilities and the positive vibes of things to come .
As I ’ m sure grabbed your attention , on the cover of this issue is an artist who embodies hope , faith , and peace every day of the year . You ’ ll hear a bit of artist Steve Wilson ’ s story of hope inside . You ’ ll also see stories about artists Rodney Hallen and Sam White , as well an exciting new project from animator Joey Clift . Sue Eller writes about author Laurie Buchanan and her alter-ego and shares with us author Katie Cross ’ business of writing , while Melody Fyre provides insights into the Spokane Jewelers Guild .
As usual , Eric Cook brings us fascinating looks inside the viticultural wonders of our region , Cam Reid introduces us to the fine cuisine of the Bistro in Canon Beach , Oregon , and Tom Quinn schools us in some always fascinating art history .
For a bit of uniqueness , Tara Mickschl gives us ways to “ Sweeten the Sentiment ” with the arts this Valentine ’ s Day , so don ’ t skip that feature . As always , we ask that you pay close attention to our advertisers and check them out online or in person , as we can ’ t bring you these issues without them . Also , remember to hashtag us on social posts if you are visiting any of the places or artists mentioned in our issues , as we like to see you enjoying things you learned about here .
We all at Art Chowder hope you all have had a wonderful holiday season and invite you to look at this pristine New Year with renewed hope and lifted expectations . Don ’ t ask 2023 to bring it on , tell it you ’ re bringing it on !
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