Thom Courcelle's Posts - International Union of Mail-Artists2024-03-28T20:02:16ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcellehttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/64520917?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://iuoma-network.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=0hft0lyyt267t&xn_auth=noFirst Exchange with IUOMA Member and Friend Robert Gregorytag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-02-10:2496677:BlogPost:28815882024-02-10T22:33:57.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Robert hails from Kirkland, Washington—just a bridge drive across Lake Washington from where I used to live in Seattle. I'm always happy to correspond with folks from my former Pacific Northwest home, to hear news from the old "neighborhood."</p>
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<p>You can compare Robert's "sent" envelope <a href="http://iuoma-network.ning.com/photo/pink-gray-pink?context=latest" rel="noopener" target="_blank">here [link]</a> ...with the envelope that I received at my home in Vermont after its long…</p>
<p>Robert hails from Kirkland, Washington—just a bridge drive across Lake Washington from where I used to live in Seattle. I'm always happy to correspond with folks from my former Pacific Northwest home, to hear news from the old "neighborhood."</p>
<p></p>
<p>You can compare Robert's "sent" envelope <a href="http://iuoma-network.ning.com/photo/pink-gray-pink?context=latest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here [link]</a> ...with the envelope that I received at my home in Vermont after its long journey through the postal system and its machinery...</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378213072?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378213072?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>I love those vintage stamps! Although one seems to have met with a rather aggressive roller at some post office somewhere..."L-O-V-E" is now simply "V-E." ...Hmmm, what could that stand for? ..."Visionary Envelope" perhaps?)</p>
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<p>Also, none of those vintage stamps were cancelled...because the post office put the envelope through the machine UPSIDE DOWN!! (Notice the cancellation mark along the bottom of the envelope!)</p>
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<p>The envelope back:</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378214056?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378214056?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Robert is also a letter writer! This is something I am always on the lookout for, being a letter-writer myself (and sometimes getting carried away with how many pages I can fill!!) I can attest that Robert's handwriting is almost calligraphic—a beautiful script. And I was grateful to learn some of his history, his many travels and places he's lived, and hear about his experience as an artist—making a life of his studies and becoming a teacher. Bravo!</p>
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<p>Thank you for sharing and for your correspondence, Robert!</p>
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<p></p>Adam Roussopoulos Scores Again with Winning Artistamperytag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-02-10:2496677:BlogPost:28814102024-02-10T22:09:46.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>In a rubber stamped envelope, which also, somehow, never fails to entertain...</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378208476?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378208476?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650"></img></a></p>
<p>One of the more creative of Adam's artistamp sheets is based on lyrics from Simon and Garfunkel...…</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378208878?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378208878?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650"></img></a></p>
<p>In a rubber stamped envelope, which also, somehow, never fails to entertain...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378208476?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378208476?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>One of the more creative of Adam's artistamp sheets is based on lyrics from Simon and Garfunkel...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378208878?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378208878?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>...And another sheet makes a colorful menagerie of humorous scenarios with a mustachioed 3-month-old:</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378209463?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378209463?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>I was also the lucky recipient of a compendium stapled booklet entitled "The 26 Doe Brothers" most recently documented by Katerina Nikoltsou <a href="http://iuoma-network.ning.com/profiles/blogs/from-adam-roussopoulos-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in her blog</a>... This rather seemed like a project of pure amusement and fun...make believe storytelling at its zenith...like going to a restaurant with a friend and making up life stories about all the other patrons sitting around at the other tables. Whose story will make you laugh the hardest? A classic.</p>
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<p>A nice letter was included, too! Always wonderful to hear from friends the bits and pieces of our lives, our strivings and struggles, our dreams and fantasies, and how art helps us relate to the world...</p>
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<p>Thank you, Adam!</p>
<p></p>The Gift...from Awyntag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-02-10:2496677:BlogPost:28815062024-02-10T21:46:48.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>A beautiful painted scene...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378207080?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378206695?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378206695?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="550"></img></a> <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378207080?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"></a></p>
<p>The essence of gratitude...the perfect prayer for any occasion.…</p>
<p>A beautiful painted scene...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378207080?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378206695?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378206695?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="550" class="align-center"/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378207080?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a></p>
<p>The essence of gratitude...the perfect prayer for any occasion. "Thank you! Thank you!"</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378207462?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378207462?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="450" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>...Awyn's unique envelope artistamp.</p>
<p></p>Carien van Hest Must be Working for the Tourism Bureau in The Netherlands!tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-02-10:2496677:BlogPost:28815032024-02-10T21:38:56.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Carien created this LARGE hand-made envelope with an Amsterdam scene so vibrant one might just leap right into the picture! The paper is quite thick and glossy...perhaps a repurposed book jacket from a coffee table book...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378205489?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378205489?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650"></img></a> I can imagine riding my bicycle across one of Amsterdam's bridges or lounging on one of the passenger barges as it floats through…</p>
<p>Carien created this LARGE hand-made envelope with an Amsterdam scene so vibrant one might just leap right into the picture! The paper is quite thick and glossy...perhaps a repurposed book jacket from a coffee table book...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378205489?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378205489?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a>I can imagine riding my bicycle across one of Amsterdam's bridges or lounging on one of the passenger barges as it floats through town on the canal...</p>
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<p>The reverse side had views of colorful tulip gardens. And inside, a unique TACTILE geometric collage work, featuring some painting in purple, turquoise, and gold...</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378206260?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378206260?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Thank you for sharing a little bit of The Netherlands with me, Carien! (It's been a long time since I visited, but I have many fond memories...)</p>
<p></p>An Avalanche of Art Stuff from Non-Local Variable (Including Survey Results!)tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-02-10:2496677:BlogPost:28816592024-02-10T21:22:59.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Not one, but <em>TWO</em> envelopes of goodies arriving from Oregon... one of which included survey results from the Mail Art Continuum Project—something I had been anxious to hear about...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378199252?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378199252?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650"></img></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378199081?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378199081?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650"></img></a></p>
<p>One…</p>
<p>Not one, but <em>TWO</em> envelopes of goodies arriving from Oregon... one of which included survey results from the Mail Art Continuum Project—something I had been anxious to hear about...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378199252?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378199252?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378199081?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378199081?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>One envelope contained tons of ephemera that I hope to put to good use in future projects. And the other contained detailed survey analysis and reporting from the <strong><em>Crevicist Institute</em></strong> concerning the self-proclaimed historical art genres of IUOMA mailartists on a highly methodical-mathematical-scientific quadrant scale assessment form that was sent to almost 40 members (!)</p>
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<p>As one might guess, survey results were somewhat tainted by the very fluXus-absurdist artwork of "certain" respondents, who couldn't resist not following the survey directions...and in some cases made their own "performance" survey rules, or used the survey itself to create dada-ist works of collage art.</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378201457?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378201457?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Ah well... at least the survey revealed that ART IS ALIVE AND WELL, NO MATTER WHAT GENRE I.O.U.M.A. ARTISTS CLAIM TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH! VIVA L'ART!! (And thanks for all the hard work of putting the survey and survey results together, Non-Local! Fascinating stuff!)</p>
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<p></p>My Ticket to MailArt Bliss—from Hélène LaGachetag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-02-10:2496677:BlogPost:28816512024-02-10T20:45:17.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378189687?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378189687?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650"></img></a> Hélène sent an envelope with artworks that struck a blissful chord near my heart...</p>
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<p>Inside is a collage that looks nothing if not like a travelers ticket...with its partial map of Bordeaux (?) sitting beside a blue azure sea, and a new imaginary train track route that will take me on an exotic and scenic ride through mystical terrain not even…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378189687?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12378189687?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a>Hélène sent an envelope with artworks that struck a blissful chord near my heart...</p>
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<p>Inside is a collage that looks nothing if not like a travelers ticket...with its partial map of Bordeaux (?) sitting beside a blue azure sea, and a new imaginary train track route that will take me on an exotic and scenic ride through mystical terrain not even discovered yet!</p>
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<p>This trip includes entertainment in the form of a performance art poetry reading. The splotch above the poem is reminiscent of a figurative body bravely jumping from a great height into the unknown. The performer weaves a tangled tale, restructured, rearranged, slashed, cut, remembered, inescapable, unable to be erased from memory...because the body remembers...</p>
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<p> Under bramble burrs,</p>
<p> rags kissing the heather,</p>
<p> the crazy/wild life of his body.</p>
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<p><strong><em> Push in</em>, they shout.</strong></p>
<p><em><strong> All you have to do is draw from</strong> <strong>it</strong></em><strong>.</strong></p>
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<p> From the battered ground</p>
<p> a stump cracks.</p>
<p> A network of lamps returns</p>
<p> to the castors of genesis.</p>
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<p> Between the shadows and the clearings</p>
<p> the ancestors with heavy/magnificent powers,</p>
<p> someone looks at the binoculars</p>
<p> toward the lizarded (?) summit.</p>
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<p>This is the stuff of my [MailArt] dreams...adventure travel, exploring new and virginal places on the earth...and poetry both visual, and delectably, deliciously written.</p>
<p>Loved this, Hélène!! Thank you!</p>An Apex of Picturesque Postal Card Pleasantriestag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-02-09:2496677:BlogPost:28813542024-02-09T17:22:00.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>MailArt postal cards arrived from (clockwise from top): David Stafford of New Mexico, USA; David Stanley Aponte of New Jersey, USA; Susan Gnaedinger of Illinois, USA; and Stripygoose of England...</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12377919668?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12377919668?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a> Your correspondence and artwork is appreciated! Thanks to…</p>
<p>MailArt postal cards arrived from (clockwise from top): David Stafford of New Mexico, USA; David Stanley Aponte of New Jersey, USA; Susan Gnaedinger of Illinois, USA; and Stripygoose of England...</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12377919668?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12377919668?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a>Your correspondence and artwork is appreciated! Thanks to all!</p>Counterfeit Stamp Scheme Nearly Derails a Vermont Nonprofit's Fundraising Campaigntag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-01-15:2496677:BlogPost:28736012024-01-15T17:47:27.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>This article appeared in Vermont's Alternative Newspaper Weekly, <em>Seven Days</em>, and I immediately felt it was appropriate news for the IUOMA community (particularly in the United States, where a majority of this scamming appears to be taking place). I have, myself, actually come across these "discount" postage stamp websites that claim that they can sell postage stamps at a reduced rate (up to HALF-OFF!) because they purchase stamps in bulk. …</p>
<p>This article appeared in Vermont's Alternative Newspaper Weekly, <em>Seven Days</em>, and I immediately felt it was appropriate news for the IUOMA community (particularly in the United States, where a majority of this scamming appears to be taking place). I have, myself, actually come across these "discount" postage stamp websites that claim that they can sell postage stamps at a reduced rate (up to HALF-OFF!) because they purchase stamps in bulk. <span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>THIS IS A SCAM</strong></span>. <strong>These postage stamps are COUNTERFEIT. DO NOT PURCHASE POSTAGE STAMPS EXCEPT FROM FEDERALLY RECOGNIZED OR AUTHORIZED POST OFFICES!! </strong> If something seems too good to be true, THEN IT VERY LIKELY IS!! </p>
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<p>A link to the newspaper article can be found <a href="https://www.sevendaysvt.com/news/a-counterfeit-stamp-scheme-nearly-derails-a-burlington-nonprofits-holiday-push-39929429" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE (click)</a>, for those who might have trouble enlarging or reading the photographed article...</p>
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<p><strong><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358252685?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358252685?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="750" class="align-center"/></a></strong></p>A 'Zine for a 'Zine—The Brilliant Stamp Art of William Mellott in a Mini-Zinetag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-01-14:2496677:BlogPost:28738502024-01-14T21:31:05.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>I recently sent William a copy of the mini-zine I created called "<a href="https://iuoma-network.ning.com/group/fluxfish?commentId=2496677%3AComment%3A2865866&xg_source=activity" rel="noopener" target="_blank">FluxFish in the Year of the Rabbit</a>," and he kindly countered with a mini-zine of his own, starring his amazing stamp artistry...…</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358014874?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358014874?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>I recently sent William a copy of the mini-zine I created called "<a href="https://iuoma-network.ning.com/group/fluxfish?commentId=2496677%3AComment%3A2865866&xg_source=activity" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FluxFish in the Year of the Rabbit</a>," and he kindly countered with a mini-zine of his own, starring his amazing stamp artistry...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358014874?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358014874?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358014900?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358014900?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358015080?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358015080?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358015468?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358015468?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358015485?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358015485?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a>I honestly am always floored by William's creativity and the endless image ideas he comes up with through the medium of his rubber stamp collection. Admired. Awed. Honored to have received. Thank you, William!</p>
<p></p>Birthday Art "Polka" from Nancy Bell Scotttag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-01-14:2496677:BlogPost:28730372024-01-14T21:07:51.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>I celebrated another year around the Sun recently, and mailart pal Nancy Bell Scott honored the occasion with a most magnificent example of her artistry... She had actually sent me a personal electronic message with the image first...so it was a total surprise to receive the ACTUAL ARTWORK in the mail THE VERY NEXT DAY!!</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358006659?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358006659?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500"></img></a></p>
<p>Above is the image…</p>
<p>I celebrated another year around the Sun recently, and mailart pal Nancy Bell Scott honored the occasion with a most magnificent example of her artistry... She had actually sent me a personal electronic message with the image first...so it was a total surprise to receive the ACTUAL ARTWORK in the mail THE VERY NEXT DAY!!</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358006659?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358006659?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Above is the image that Nancy took of her own work and sent electronically...and which came out much more vibrant than the darker winter-light picture that I took of the piece. There is always so much detail and substance in Nancy's pieces, and I always imagine her "falling" into her work in utter concentration...or like a meditation...which is what I think producing art is like when we are in "flow," or in our groove, or absorbed by the work. Honestly, I don't know how she does it; I just know that I love it.</p>
<p></p>
<p>As Nancy notes, we are indeed in the midst of a kind of "polka" or dance in the United States. I sometimes wonder if it is more like a tarantella...where the dancer expends so much energy in the dance that she expires at the end of her exertions.</p>
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<p>But the colorfulness of this piece reminds me, too, of the diversity of people that exist here, and the joyousness of colorful stick dances in Alpine and Basque countries, as well. Those dances are representative of ritual weapon dances—of battles and fighting—but in the end everyone celebrates with food and drink together.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Nancy is so prolific with her artistic practice that usually her notecards, notepaper and envelopes are full of her paint and experimentation as well. Below is the backside of the note she included with her birthday art piece—it is made from a recycled page of an antiquated book...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358008884?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358008884?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>My mother always says, "Never disparage getting older; it is a privilege denied to many." Truer words were never spoke. This birthday I suppose I am grateful because it means I've had yet another year to appreciate Nancy's brilliant artwork, and the art of a whole community of brilliant artists! Thanks, Nancy, for your generosity and gift!</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>A Xanadu of eXcellent eXciting eXquisite eXpedited Postal eXpress from Dr. Zacktag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-01-14:2496677:BlogPost:28735242024-01-14T20:30:49.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>A recently received hand-made envelope from Dr. Zack revealed so many goodies that it felt like Santa had left me a MailArt Stocking stuffed with treasures! They were even nicely gift-wrapped...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358001657?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358001657?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358001283?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358001283?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>There…</p>
<p>A recently received hand-made envelope from Dr. Zack revealed so many goodies that it felt like Santa had left me a MailArt Stocking stuffed with treasures! They were even nicely gift-wrapped...</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358001657?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358001657?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358001283?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358001283?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>There was a very cute mini comics...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358002255?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358002255?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="450" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>...and a photo-booth photo...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358002452?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358002452?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="300" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>...and ephemera galore!! Then, there was that tubular gift-wrapped item...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358002472?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358002472?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="575" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>I wasn't sure but that it might be its own art piece, but I ventured to open an end and see what I could see...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358002859?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358002859?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="575" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>And, LO!!! There were hand-made artistamps awaiting inside, of a very creative sort!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358003086?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12358003086?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>A treat to receive and open, and a treat that will keep on giving as I devise ways to use the various ephemera in future mailart!! Thank you, Zack, for this entertaining packet of goodies!</p>
<p></p>Flowers and Kites—Earth and Air—from Debra Mulnicktag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-01-14:2496677:BlogPost:28735542024-01-14T20:04:08.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>A beautiful hand-folded envelope made of a luscious Baroque flower print paper, from Debra Mulnick...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357997875?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357997875?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>...containing a Japanese block print that Debra has embellished and collaged with words to create a minimalist poem. A very nice personal note on the reverse.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Like Debra, I think that 2024 (a presidential election year…</p>
<p>A beautiful hand-folded envelope made of a luscious Baroque flower print paper, from Debra Mulnick...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357997875?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357997875?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>...containing a Japanese block print that Debra has embellished and collaged with words to create a minimalist poem. A very nice personal note on the reverse.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Like Debra, I think that 2024 (a presidential election year in the United States with much at stake) is going to be a big year for MailArt—whether to protest ...or to cope ...or to scream in punctuated visual alarm. Viva la MailArt! Visual Poetry for the masses!!</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you, Debra! See you in the mail!</p>
<p></p>A Little Devil Told Me The MailArt Revolution is ON!!tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-01-14:2496677:BlogPost:28731342024-01-14T19:51:10.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Here's the little devil (drawn by the hand of <strong>Jimmy Hackney</strong>)...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357995060?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357995060?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>I love this graffito-like drawing with the young Basquiat gazing on! ...The power of a few primary color pens can be amazing in the hands of a true artist!</p>
<p></p>
<p>I think this is my first exchange with Jimmy (aka "J.J. Hack"). And, I had already…</p>
<p>Here's the little devil (drawn by the hand of <strong>Jimmy Hackney</strong>)...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357995060?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357995060?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>I love this graffito-like drawing with the young Basquiat gazing on! ...The power of a few primary color pens can be amazing in the hands of a true artist!</p>
<p></p>
<p>I think this is my first exchange with Jimmy (aka "J.J. Hack"). And, I had already sent something in the mail to him! I wouldn't be surprised if they had crossed paths in the postal system... I look forward to more artistic dialogue!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357996470?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357996470?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Thank you, Jimmy!</p>
<p></p>You Have to Wait Until Chapter 3 to Get to the Good Parts...tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-01-14:2496677:BlogPost:28735512024-01-14T19:38:12.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>An excellent paint-and-Collage work by the amazing hand of Carien van Hest...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357990076?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357990076?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>A closer view...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357990092?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357990092?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>Thanks,…</p>
<p>An excellent paint-and-Collage work by the amazing hand of Carien van Hest...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357990076?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357990076?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>A closer view...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357990092?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357990092?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Thanks, Carien!</p>Holiday Greetings Postcards from Stafford and Muchmoretag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2024-01-14:2496677:BlogPost:28731312024-01-14T19:25:37.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Dave Stafford on the left, and Coco Muchmore on the right...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357989284?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357989284?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Dave Stafford on the left, and Coco Muchmore on the right...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357989284?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12357989284?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>Adam Roussopoulos Sends New Artistampstag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-12-12:2496677:BlogPost:28644622023-12-12T18:55:09.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323325852?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323325852?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Adam's commentary through his artistry and mastery of the Artistamp form is appreciated for its candor. Some artists, I think, are afraid to say the thing that needs to be said in the face of global crises, but Adam isn't afraid to bring the crisis to our attention with alarming accuracy using popular contemporary imagery, bluntness, and a…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323325852?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323325852?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="650" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Adam's commentary through his artistry and mastery of the Artistamp form is appreciated for its candor. Some artists, I think, are afraid to say the thing that needs to be said in the face of global crises, but Adam isn't afraid to bring the crisis to our attention with alarming accuracy using popular contemporary imagery, bluntness, and a little bit of dark humor to give us a double-take and make us think... I'm an admirer.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you, Adam!</p>
<p></p>Anagrams for Miles from Rebecca Resinskitag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-12-12:2496677:BlogPost:28645722023-12-12T18:38:43.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>A very wonderful and pleasant surprise from artist Rebecca Resinski who sent a collage board postcard...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323318882?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323318882?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>...and a super creative little folding boekie with anagrams the word "metamorphosis." Who knew so much could be generated from that one little word??...…</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>A very wonderful and pleasant surprise from artist Rebecca Resinski who sent a collage board postcard...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323318882?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323318882?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>...and a super creative little folding boekie with anagrams the word "metamorphosis." Who knew so much could be generated from that one little word??...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323323699?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323323699?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="550" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323324269?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323324269?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="725" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Kudos for creativity!!! Thank you, Rebecca!</p>
<p></p>Received from Katerina Nikoltsou—Holiday Wishes in a Unique Handmade Envelopetag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-12-12:2496677:BlogPost:28643022023-12-12T18:19:25.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Beautiful handmade envelope and Greek postage stamps...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323317483?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323317483?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>And some handmade up-cycled collage artistry in BLUE!! There's plenty of snow here in Vermont, Kat! Just let me know if you want any sent your way!! ;) …</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Beautiful handmade envelope and Greek postage stamps...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323317483?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323317483?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>And some handmade up-cycled collage artistry in BLUE!! There's plenty of snow here in Vermont, Kat! Just let me know if you want any sent your way!! ;) </p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323318453?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12323318453?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>Message in a Bottle from the Magnificent Mind of Kathy Barnetttag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-11-29:2496677:BlogPost:28615142023-11-29T17:02:09.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Kathy recently sent a very attractive envelope with vintage bottle labels that hinted at the surprise inside...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305281299?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305281299?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>Kathy is known for her creative "interactive" pieces, which often reveal her amazing sense of humor.</p>
<p></p>
<p>For instance, a gift of perfume or eau de toilette is always a classy present to gift someone. In the case of…</p>
<p>Kathy recently sent a very attractive envelope with vintage bottle labels that hinted at the surprise inside...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305281299?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305281299?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Kathy is known for her creative "interactive" pieces, which often reveal her amazing sense of humor.</p>
<p></p>
<p>For instance, a gift of perfume or eau de toilette is always a classy present to gift someone. In the case of Kathy's gift, the bottles contain something even better than a whiff of good scents...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305285487?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305288055?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305288055?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305285487?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><br/></a></p>
<p>They contain SMILES!!!!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305288477?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305288477?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>...(The smiles are on my face of course...) If the characters in the bottle stoppers aren't exactly smiling, their faces are funny enough to evoke some smiles!! </p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305290266?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305290266?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you for this latest creative feat, Kathy!</p>
<p></p>Goddesses Bestowing MailArt Giftstag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-11-24:2496677:BlogPost:28590882023-11-24T16:22:23.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Not one...but TWO Greek Goddesses descended upon my mail box to bestow blessings upon my household...</p>
<p></p>
<p>From Katerina Nikoltsou:</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12300446856?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12300446856?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>...And they brought some creative ephemera so that the blessed mailart cycle might continue...…</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Not one...but TWO Greek Goddesses descended upon my mail box to bestow blessings upon my household...</p>
<p></p>
<p>From Katerina Nikoltsou:</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12300446856?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12300446856?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>...And they brought some creative ephemera so that the blessed mailart cycle might continue...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12300447656?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12300447656?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you, Kat! Always feel blessed in the presence of the mailart goddesses!</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>Got Gorgeous? Artful Greetings from Greg Diaz of California (USA)tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-11-17:2496677:BlogPost:28576492023-11-17T23:15:12.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293708700?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293708700?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Why am I so tickled by this array of simple forms sent by Greg? A sheet of paper swathed in black, reminiscent of Xuan brush Chinese calligraphy...with two red markings like reflective eyes that turn the form into a smiling creature grinning mirthfully from the shadows.</p>
<p></p>
<p>And, um, that hand-carved Johnson bunny on the envelope…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293708700?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293708700?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Why am I so tickled by this array of simple forms sent by Greg? A sheet of paper swathed in black, reminiscent of Xuan brush Chinese calligraphy...with two red markings like reflective eyes that turn the form into a smiling creature grinning mirthfully from the shadows.</p>
<p></p>
<p>And, um, that hand-carved Johnson bunny on the envelope front? One of the most totes ador-able renditions I've ever seen... I'm in love with it!</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293715892?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293715892?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="450" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293715679?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293715274?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293711673?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img/></a></p>
<p>Other enclosures include these figurative pieces... One a Xerox black-and-white piece that obfuscates the figure's upper reaches...but give us a hint of its clamor and angst with the shock of lightening striking through it. Its binary twin is still a dark figure, but illuminated from behind by swirling Florentine feathers and an opal-esque cream background, centered below an "I" radiating crepuscular rays—revelation that "I" am multi-faceted, I encompass the light <em>and</em> the dark, I am a physical whole <em>and</em> I am also my thoughts and dreams and fears. They work beautifully together...</p>
<p></p>
<p>This was a treat to receive and blessing to contemplate, Greg. Thank you!</p>
<p></p>Negotiable Notions of Mail Art from Non-Local Variable in Oregon (USA)tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-11-17:2496677:BlogPost:28571072023-11-17T21:58:12.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<div><p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293693065?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293693065?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>I had fun going through the cornucopia of stuff that Non-Local Variable sent in. Much of it meant to question "What is Art?"...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293694690?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293694690?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>There was also a fascinating boekie/zine enclosed. It looked…</p>
</div>
<div><p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293693065?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293693065?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>I had fun going through the cornucopia of stuff that Non-Local Variable sent in. Much of it meant to question "What is Art?"...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293694690?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293694690?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>There was also a fascinating boekie/zine enclosed. It looked very serious and I thought it would contain a story or critique or manifesto... But the text was purposely muddled or jumbled or nonplussed—leaving a piece that was art for art's sake, or a boekie for boekie's sake, or a zine for zow-wee reactions!!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293697887?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293697887?profile=original" width="350" class="align-center" id="img672303" name="img672303"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293697063?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293697063?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293697085?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293697085?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293697294?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293697294?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Elegantly disorienting and bemusing creations!</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thanks, Non-Local Variable!</p>
<p></p>
</div>Hijinks and Hilarity from The Haddock of Oregon (USA)tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-11-17:2496677:BlogPost:28574652023-11-17T21:29:56.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293691460?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293691460?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Poetry, DaDa sketches and miniatures...</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293691460?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293691460?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Poetry, DaDa sketches and miniatures...</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you!</p>
<p></p>Rita Does It Right—The Riveting Mail Regards of Rita McNamaratag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-11-17:2496677:BlogPost:28573882023-11-17T21:19:47.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Rita's post came in a hand-painted and designed envelope...soooo beautiful, though it was made of newspaper-thin material, so I didn't dare try to unfold the seams for fear of tearing it... The insides were just as fabulous, though...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293688085?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293688085?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>A wonderful personal note, and an origami paper box that when…</p>
<p>Rita's post came in a hand-painted and designed envelope...soooo beautiful, though it was made of newspaper-thin material, so I didn't dare try to unfold the seams for fear of tearing it... The insides were just as fabulous, though...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293688085?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293688085?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>A wonderful personal note, and an origami paper box that when opened...</p>
<p></p>
<p>provided a little postal ephemera extravaganza inside!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293688476?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293688476?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Delightful and well-done. Thank you Rita!</p>
<p></p>Magnificent Magic from MailArt Marthatag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-11-17:2496677:BlogPost:28573102023-11-17T21:08:02.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293683691?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293683691?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Musings and stories and artwork galore from MailArt Martha in the United Kingdom! ...Including a legacy stamp portrait through the kindness of Adam Roussopuolos:</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293685079?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293685079?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="450"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you,…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293683691?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293683691?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Musings and stories and artwork galore from MailArt Martha in the United Kingdom! ...Including a legacy stamp portrait through the kindness of Adam Roussopuolos:</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293685079?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293685079?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="450" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you, Martha!</p>A Cornucopia of des Cartes Postales from the U.S. States and Abroadtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-11-17:2496677:BlogPost:28575542023-11-17T20:28:52.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<div><div><p>Truly some great, creative, artistic pieces. Some from new friends, some from the familiar crew, and some welcome correspondence from friends not heard from in a while...</p>
<p></p>
<p>Below, from top left, clockwise: Jack of Cascadia Artpost; Coco Muchmore in a fantastic collaboration with artist Nick Carterucci; the Dude-bros of France (Artist In_Seine and Dr. Zack); Michael Orr; Jimmy Connors (Germany); Melissa Wand doing some experimental theater (and photography); and Hélène…</p>
</div>
</div>
<div><div><p>Truly some great, creative, artistic pieces. Some from new friends, some from the familiar crew, and some welcome correspondence from friends not heard from in a while...</p>
<p></p>
<p>Below, from top left, clockwise: Jack of Cascadia Artpost; Coco Muchmore in a fantastic collaboration with artist Nick Carterucci; the Dude-bros of France (Artist In_Seine and Dr. Zack); Michael Orr; Jimmy Connors (Germany); Melissa Wand doing some experimental theater (and photography); and Hélène LaGache (Bordeaux, France)</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293642671?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12293642671?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Thanks to all these artists!</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
</div>
</div>Mail Art Received from Mikel Untzilla in Euskaditag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-09-27:2496677:BlogPost:28311462023-09-27T21:09:22.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Mikel sent a very attractive envelope with his signature carved rubber stamps—I love those pastel España Correos postage stamps!—and a sample of the art form spotlighted by one of the newer Theme Groups on this IUOMA site: “The One-Page Zine.”…</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233773480?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233773480?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Mikel sent a very attractive envelope with his signature carved rubber stamps—I love those pastel España Correos postage stamps!—and a sample of the art form spotlighted by one of the newer Theme Groups on this IUOMA site: “The One-Page Zine.”</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233773480?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233773480?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233774067?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233774067?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233774082?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233774082?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233774096?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233774096?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="450" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>The folded-one-piece-of-paper format is a simple way to create the artifact that can also been identified as a “boekie” in various posts on this site. I’ve made some myself in the past: <a href="http://iuoma-network.ning.com/profiles/blogs/super-heroes-vs-peter-rabbit"><span>http://iuoma-network.ning.com/profiles/blogs/super-heroes-vs-peter-rabbit</span></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>I’m certain many would argue that there is a difference between a “Boekie” and a “Zine”.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> There is a definitive “Zine”-culture and community in parts of the United States. When I lived in Seattle several years ago, there was literally a storefront dedicated to the art form—one shop on Pine Street had magazine rack -like displays of short-run and hand-made zines and featured “recent releases” by local artists. And several independent bookstores—including Elliott Bay Books [at one time]—would carry hand-made Zines in support of artists. It was the ultimate “local artist” cottage industry and financial artistic subsistence craze of the 90’s and 00s.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Mikel’s superb example is made into a miniature stamp collection booklet, which seems like an excellent way to display one’s favorite cancelled postage from far-a-way lands. I had a stamp collection when I was a youth, as did several neighborhood children. We would sometimes have trade and exchange gatherings. I was pretty proud of my collection, but while I was away at college, my mother brashly decided she would contribute it to one of her friend’s children who was starting a collection. Thanks, Mom! <i>C’est la vie</i>. Now I just admire various postal stamps from mail artist friends around the world, and Mikel’s contribution seems like a great way to highlight them!</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you, Mikel!</p>
<p></p>Mail Art received from Awyn in Canadatag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-09-27:2496677:BlogPost:28312822023-09-27T21:00:43.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>A lucky envelope including<span class="Apple-converted-space"> an </span>original landscape (“If Trees Could Talk…”) and a bookmark that will get some good use in the near future!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233770698?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233770698?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you, Awyn!</p>
<p></p>
<p>I also love the R. Johnson bunny on the envelope holding a message board which seems like a very…</p>
<p>A lucky envelope including<span class="Apple-converted-space"> an </span>original landscape (“If Trees Could Talk…”) and a bookmark that will get some good use in the near future!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233770698?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233770698?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you, Awyn!</p>
<p></p>
<p>I also love the R. Johnson bunny on the envelope holding a message board which seems like a very <em>stylistically-Awyn</em> rendition of a rubber stamp I’ve been including on my own recently sent mail art…</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233771677?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12233771677?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="575" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>Don’t they say that some things gets funnier (or cuter) the more times it is repeated? I think this handsome duo make a terrific picket-line queue in tandem!</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>A Bevy of Beautiful Board — Postcards from Afar and Farthertag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-08-18:2496677:BlogPost:28211672023-08-18T01:00:00.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p> Hand-made postcards from amazing artists...</p>
<p></p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199109865?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></p>
<p></p>
<p>(from top left, clockwise...): <strong>James Chester</strong>'s (California) astonishingly beautiful botanical gel plate print; a cut-and-collage geometric "postcard quilt" from <strong>Zack in France</strong>; <strong>Tyler Hannigan</strong>'s (New Mexico) hand-colored Linocut print "Flight #2"; and <strong>Coco Muchmore</strong> (Kansas) finds her political voice with a very creative use of rubber stamps…</p>
<p> Hand-made postcards from amazing artists...</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199109865?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>(from top left, clockwise...): <strong>James Chester</strong>'s (California) astonishingly beautiful botanical gel plate print; a cut-and-collage geometric "postcard quilt" from <strong>Zack in France</strong>; <strong>Tyler Hannigan</strong>'s (New Mexico) hand-colored Linocut print "Flight #2"; and <strong>Coco Muchmore</strong> (Kansas) finds her political voice with a very creative use of rubber stamps from her archive rubber stamp drawer... <em>(Right on!)</em></p>
<p></p>
<p>Not to be out-done, or to allow popular culture-of-the-moment pass without commentary...<strong>Dave Stafford</strong> creates a postcard called "My Tribute to Barbie." I'm trying to decide what my impression is... It looks a bit like Barbie lost control of her barbie Dream Car and careened into the side of her Barbie Dream House, scraping Pink Paint on the house shingles.... But never fear! A little eye shadow will cover that right up! Everything works-out in Barbie's Dreamland!!!</p>
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<p><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199111683?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>Dave also posted a survey on the back of his postcard "Please check all boxes that apply..." (Or I think that's what it says; the post office apparently got a little rough with Dave's postcard). Hand-carved stamps!!!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199114052?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199114052?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Oh, Dave! You know I'm always thinking OUTSIDE of the box[es]. Survey results are in: "THESE MAIL ART POSTCARDS ARE AMAZING-TERRIFIC!!!"</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thanks to all these mail artist contributors!!</p>Something's Fishy...from the Netherlands!tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-08-18:2496677:BlogPost:28206372023-08-18T00:42:43.000ZThom Courcellehttps://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/ThomCourcelle
<p>Margreet Beemsterboer sends FLUX FISH...I'm glad she used a <em>photo</em> as the subject for her amazing hand-drawn sketches (quite special!) because otherwise it might have been a rather stinky art project!! Below is the original inspiration and the lovely envelope she created:</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199106867?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199106867?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>It has been so wet and rainy (with major flooding) here…</p>
<p>Margreet Beemsterboer sends FLUX FISH...I'm glad she used a <em>photo</em> as the subject for her amazing hand-drawn sketches (quite special!) because otherwise it might have been a rather stinky art project!! Below is the original inspiration and the lovely envelope she created:</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199106867?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199106867?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>It has been so wet and rainy (with major flooding) here in Vermont, that Margaret's fish met a rather soggy mail day, embellishing her envelope appropriately with water stains—which I think added quite an amazing ambiance to the piece!! And on the reverse, more amazing fish sketches:</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199107064?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12199107064?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="500" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>As Margaret notes, "The end of life is death." This is very true, but the end of a fish's life should be stuffed with lemon and herbs and served with a delicate sauce Mouseleine...and then be served with new potatoes and a vegetable of the day.</p>
<p></p>
<p>A Flux Fish should, after all, transform into something delicious if it has to cross the FluXus boundary from sea to platter...</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you, Margaret for your very lovely sketches. I love hand-drawn things!!!</p>
<p></p>