Tools, equipment, papers, cloth... and most of all inventory fills an artist’s studio. We fail to remember a precious piece—our muse that sits in a corner or in front of the printer table so you notice their presence—our pet.
This furry friend disturbing my concentration with a favourite toy, a nod for food or a walk, wonders why I don’t always jump at her demands. With index finger extended, I whisper “just a minute, mommy's almost done”. In a few minutes, this bundle of joy comes running tail wagging with no criticism. Dragging a new toy and a bigger smile inviting me to play again. My four-legged family member relieves frustrating moments in the atelier with a carefree attitude whether I’m printing, cutting, writing or binding. I believe the unconditional love inherent of my devoted companion permeates my artistic spirit.
Do you have a muse in your studio helping with your productive energy? My little Sheltie Topaz has inspired me to create these artists’ books:
© 2003 Louise Levergneux, Topaz made her debut in my series Equinox, the albums explore the repetitiveness of quotidian life
© 2005 Louise Levergneux, Topaz was the inspiration for Beside Me, a collection that comprised teams
© 2006 Louise Levergneux, Topaz participated in the artists' book Ambivalence, a photographic documentation of Ohio cemeteries provoking a feeling of ambivalence in the viewer
© 2012 Louise Levergneux, obsession is a documentary that portrays Topaz's obsession with her daily routine
© 2012 Louise Levergneux, Topaz was very willing to act on command and be photographed for A Day Filled with Onomatopoeias, an interactive book based on the word onomatopoeia and it’s definition
Topaz was also part of my series Outside the Studio, below is the video of the flip book entitled week 11 - AIR.2
In loving memory of
Imperial Topaz
January 20, 2002 - November 21, 2016