I was commissioned by Ely Folk School to create a piece of artwork that could be used to promote their "Potluck" themed birthday celebration, and also be sold as an art print for fundraising. I created this linocut-style illustration on an iPad with a stylus using the Procreate app. Artist Statement: When I think of a potluck, I think of community, gathering with those you love and care about, hugs and good conversation, and taking the time to cook for others. I think of generosity, hugs and handshakes, and good conversation. Each item on the table in this art piece has meaning. The flowers are Dahlia’s grown on my homestead just outside of Ely, a photo from a bouquet I grew last summer was used as a reference. To me, flowers represent celebration and joy. Like the potluck itself - with dishes and people coming together in perfect harmony - the cheese, fruit & olive board is a mix of good things melding to make something even better. The tea represents the warmth of community. Blueberry pie needs no explanation in our neck of the woods. The roasted fish dish has personal meaning for me: two years ago, when we were still relatively new to town, my family and I attended Ely Folk School’s Thanksgiving. There was so much amazing food, but a standout dish was a beautiful, huge roasted fish with lemons and herbs. It was the first time our oldest son had whole-roasted fish, and something that is still talked about to this day. Everything is tied together by a Nordic-patterned runner, a nod to part of Ely’s heritage. I hope you enjoy taking in this piece as much as I enjoyed creating it.
-Sarah Vogl
Original digital painting created with a stylus on a tablet.