Art Chowder November | December 2021 Issue 36 | Page 4

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 BA in Professional and Creative Writing from Central Washington University and an MA in Organizational and Change Leadership from Gonzaga University .

ISSUE No . 36

“ Creativity is inventing , experimenting , growing , taking risks , breaking rules , making mistakes , and having fun .”
~ Mary Lou Cook
In the Mary Lou Cook quote above , you could replace “ creativity ” with “ life ,” and it would handily encompass my current philosophy . It goes without saying that the past 18 months have made it hard to stay connected with such a seemingly carefree approach .
The mental gymnastics it took to land on a subject for this letter is proof that the heaviness of the times has a pull on my normally light-hearted , adventurous soul . Recent difficulties is a topic you will see in a few of the features , however , the mentions are a small part of stories with a larger purpose . Victory . This issue offers an opportunity to smile , laugh , sing , and explore . They are transparent and possess a heartfelt intention of dropping a little hope in your lap . Keep keeping on . Stay calm and create on . Wake up , kick ass , take names , and know it will be okay . Or hug your loved ones and say a sweet prayer of gratitude during this holiday season . Whatever it is that lightens your burden and keeps you connected to your tribe or community , please do so and enjoy the gifts we offer in this issue .
When you see our cover artist ’ s work , you can ’ t help but smile . I ’ m doing so now as I think about the delights you are about to enjoy . Tim Lord shares a bit of his journey with you , in his own words . Our “ Wall ” section includes additional treats , highlighting not only our cover artist , but also Kim Long , and Dara DeBast . These three incredibly gifted artists are sharing a gallery show called TI-KI-DA ( a play on their names ) that you won ’ t want to miss .
Some of you will have the pleasure of encountering the ever-impressive Adam Hegsted for the first time . Adam is a genius foodpreneur in the Eastern Washington region . This is food that will surely put a satisfied grin on your face . Eric Cook schools us in the Art of Holiday Wine and we take a road trip to Portland to experience a unique culinary adventure , Quaintrelle .
We proudly introduce you to Rena Priest , Washington State ’ s newest Poet Laureate , in our “ Page ” section as well as peek between the covers of a few Diana Pharoah Francis fantasies , and don ’ t miss out on learning how one artist brought her paper creations to life via costuming design in our “ Crafted ” section .
If deep-diving art history is your passion , Tom Quinn takes you on a journey to meet Artists Abroad . However , if bright lights and big critters are your jam , check out the Northwest Winterfest event and plan to hit a holiday light show in your neck of the woods .
From all of us , to all of you , we love you Chowderheads ! The entire Art Chowder team sends you our most sincere wishes for joy , hope , and peace this holiday season .
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