Jessica Grace Bechtel

This summer I'm going to be moving my studio and I need to clear out the old and make room for the new.  I've posted a current price list on the additional information page.  Please note that many of the pieces are on sale.  Its time to haggle.

I wanted to thank everyone who has come out to see the new work and offer support this spring.  To old friends and new I so greatly appreciate the opportunity to share these pieces with you and it is so humbling when so many people come out to see it.  

Now I've finally collected my art from the various galleries of the spring art blitz and I'm taking a summer vacation of sorts to create works for the fall shows.  And of course to update the website with new images and information.  Thanks for visiting the site and bearing with me as I update the image galleries.

 In September I'll be part of a collaborative effort call PRESENCE.  This group exhibit with include visual works by Barry Carlin, Holly Risch, Linda Crank and myself.  As well as musical works by Lynn Carlin.  I'm really excited about these pieces as well as the process of working with this group of artists.  

I'll be having an exhibit at The Carnegie in 2009 (October 30-November 25). http://www.thecarnegie.com

Where else to find me:

-Kathy Stockman has written about my work in her blog  http://cincy-artsnob.blogspot.com/ 

- Or  a few of my drawings and read about why I love being involved with MANIFEST in the Summer 2007 issues of American Artist:    Drawing Magazine.

 - Or I have work in several of the Manifest catalogs.  See www.manifestgallery.org

 - Or Google me to find older articles


    If you have any interest in being immortalized as part of one of my art projects, let me know.  I'm always looking for new models, especially people I know, but haven't been brave enough to ask the favor of.  So go the comments page and shoot me a note. (no experience, talent or narcissism required)

Peace.

Below are five things that I've been thinking about that have affected the way I work and live.

Transformation. It is one of the most amazing and difficult processes I've experienced. The possibility of transforming or being transformed is one of the things that keeps me interested.

Cast-offs. Some things that we throw away, overlook or take for granted are full of truth and beauty. I like the insights and solutions that aren't always obvious. I want to respect even those seemingly unimportant things in my life and work.

Confession. It has been important to my art and my life to admit when I've messed up, even if it means starting over on a project or mending a relationship. I want people who see my art or me to know the real me.

Practice. Sometimes I hate exercises like figure drawing and color studies, but they help. The more I work, the more I learn how to work better.

Contentment. I've learned that when I do not take myself too seriously, I'm more open to critique and I have more fun working. Sometimes finishing a piece doesn't mean I think it is perfect, but I'm OK with the imperfections.