Catherine Stine's IDEA CITY

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Thursday, October 27, 2011

Random Thoughts for a Rainy Day


I've been drawing a lot lately, having fun imaging the futuristic world of my YA thriller for possible use in a book. I dug out a favorite drawing of mine. I had written and illustrated a futuristic story way back when, which turned out to be the skeleton of my current YA. It's amazing how long an author can chew on a theme! I uploaded this black and white line drawing into Photoshop, where I gave it new breath it with airbrush. It's part of an under-border of invasive vines, which provides a barrier against enemies undersea. Think scary/beautiful like a Venus Fly Trap.

On another note, I am happy to say that I'll be teaching a creative writing workshop in Greece, the last two weeks of June 2012! What a great place to do some serious writing and socializing. I specialize in untangling plot knots, helping people with pacing and characterization, and I believe in giving quirky writing exercises that seem like play, but are actually strengthening writing muscle. Anyone up for a workshop near a white beach? Anyone up for freshly grilled fish? I'll post a link when I get more details.

So, what are you up to this rainy day, turned night, turned cold & beautiful day? Any exciting turn of events in your life? What old story themes have become new again through your magic?

13 comments:

  1. What am I up to this rainy night? Reminding myself that despite all the bad news near and far, there really is a lot of optimism in the world, such as: the optimist who put the pan with baked-on grime in the dishwasher without scrubbing it first; my fiesty Tiger granddaughter who today laughed and laughed and laughed for no reason whatsoever; the weatherman who claims it will be dry tomorrow...

    While the Dervish Dances at http://cathykozak.com

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  2. Greece? I'm soooo jealous! But good for you. That's amazing.
    Hmm, what am I up to. I woke up to my freezer not working right. Ugh! Why can't the world understand a writer just wants to write, not fix freezer problems? :P

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  3. I agree. It is amazing how long an author can chew on an idea!! AND I'm with Kelly. Greece. Wonderful and the fact that you're teaching a workshop is even better! Good luck!

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  4. AWESOME!! I wanna go to Greece with you. (Somehow doubt hubby would approve...) Hope you have an amazing time teaching!

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  5. Kathy, love your optimism! Kelly, yeah, there's always the drudge work of cleaning and laundry. Jessie and Sheri, nice to have you weigh in. Greece, wow, I'm wondering if I can hold classes at the beach?!

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  6. Greece? That's awesome.

    I love your drawing. It's exquisite!

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  7. Catherine, your drawing is beautiful and mysterious at the same time...I'm loving it!

    Hey, you need an assistant in Greece, right?? Sure, no problem, I'll go and help you. :))
    Congrats! What a fabulous opportunity for you!

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  8. I like black and white photographs and drawings and yours is intriguing. A workshop in Greece would be exciting, especially if it's near a beach. :)

    As for magic, I think mine has vanished.

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  9. Wow, Catherine! That would be amazing! I'll have to check out the deets when you get them up. Jessica Bell is having a workshop in Greece next year as well.
    Love your pic, it's beautiful! I'm writing a YA thriller for NaNo this year. I <3 thrillers!!

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  10. Good luck, PK, and Beverley, don't get down, the magic will return.

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  11. Nice! That's awesome about Greece!

    I also love your drawing! You are really talented. I can't draw to save my soul. I've been doing Mandala coloring lately, and it's really helped my creative process.

    Fabulous post :)

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  12. Catherine- Have you considered publishing a coffee table book of drawings?

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  13. Yes, Brinda... a book filled with illustrations for sure. Stay posted!

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