Artist-in-Residence Blog Archives: Hannah Pomante

Recently, I discovered Kinsley has been making art videos WITHOUT me. So, as a little surprise for her, I edited one of her videos into a Halloween Special and uploaded it to YouTube. To make this craft, all you need is some paper and markers. Then, to compliment the video, I created two templates: a witch and a warlock. So, if you’re looking for a project to do with your littles, try it out! All you do is color in ...

We are now onto the final week of my exhibition, so it’s time for Part 3 of my Mother Daughter Guidebook: The Conclusion. Last but not least, I would like to take this time to talk about my small works. Naturally, the larger works have a tendency to get more attention by both me and others, yet the small works will always hold a special place in my heart. They were truly the beginning for me, being the place where ...

We are now onto Part 2 of my Mother Daughter Guidebook. Within my exhibition, you may have noticed a series of fabric works which I call the Daughter series. ​ The work is mixed media, combining printmaking on fabric, sewing and collage. The textiles are made through nature printing, using the impressions of plants to create a variety of patterns. Mainly, the work is a time of exploration and expression, documenting my transition into adulthood. I found solace in its ...

With my exhibition now open, I thought I’d take this time to walk through some of my pieces. A virtual guidebook if you will. I’ve noticed often times it’s easy to feel either lost or bored when visiting a gallery—and I think this can be caused by two reasons: a confusing artist statement or a lack of information on the individual works. So, in an attempt to make my artwork more accessible, I created a guidebook! Here’s Part 1  ...

Despite COVID, I am thrilled to announce Mother Daughter will be open to the public. It’s been a tough few months preparing for the exhibition, however, thanks to the remarkable support of Spokane Art School, as well as my friends and family, the show is finally here. The two large quilts my mother and I made during quarantine will be in the exhibition, as well as many other works I have created through printmaking and quilting. Despite the circumstances, I’m ...

It’s easy to come to this state in which everything merely exists. Yet, behind every manmade item — from a little mug to a great architectural feat, was a person. A person who thought this thing was of value. Whether it’s the color of someone’s wall or a work of art in a living room, a decision was made. Granted, there may have not been much thought put into the decision, or maybe TOO much thought was there. Nevertheless, there ...

Upon first glance, you wouldn’t think an occasion such as a wedding would relate to one’s artistic practice. Particularly in my case, when it feels hypocritical to even discuss the topic of weddings. To put it mildly, growing up I may have been known to roll my eyes at a tradition or two. I still do. Yet, as it’s been the theme of most of my blog posts, I think there is a connection to be made—and apparently the topics ...

I recently reread “We Should All Be Feminists,” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and realized my reactions were different this time through. What originally invoked a passion of agreement has been replaced by a quieter response: forgiveness. It’s interesting because despite its mellow nature, I think this new emotion is a powerful one. It’s humble. It’s steady. And most importantly, it’s rooted in acceptance. Yet, it’s been difficult for me to share this change in heart, because I thought anger was ...

As a follow up to my post on social media, we’re now going to discuss ways on how to navigate the online art world in a mindful way. Working for a nonprofit myself, I spend a lot of time online. I make all our social media posts and online materials. So, I realize firsthand what a time bog social media can be. This is a tricky area to navigate as an artist, because most of us would rather be using ...

Let’s talk about stress. Coming from a family of teachers, our entire household is on edge due to the school year beginning. Sufficient to say, my brain has been a touch preoccupied. So, when it came to writing a blog post this week, I had NO idea what to write. Then, I realized this stress is not unique to me or my family. We’re all stressed. Schools don’t know what they’re doing. Parents don’t know what they’re doing. And unfortunately, ...

The art world has gone digital. Whether you like it or not, exhibiting work means having an online presence. So much so, studies have actually found social media sites, particularly Instagram, actually shift the way artists produce work. Plus, I’m guessing with COVID, this effect has only amplified. So, we get it. Social media has become a major game player for artists. Yet, as its use grows in popularity, it begs the question: how can you remain authentic in such ...

With my exhibition around the corner, I believe it’s time to give an update on my residency so far. A recap if you will. Major projects have been completed. Lessons have been learned. So, it’s time to hit pause and reflect. It won’t come as a surprise when I say nothing has gone as I anticipated. When Spokane Art School presented me with this remarkable opportunity, I envisioned long studio hours alone, thrilled to finally have the space to make ...

Here we are: the final saga of my Art and Sustainability Series. And quite frankly, the topic I’ve been most intimidated to discuss. So, I’ll begin with a disclaimer. Like many, when it comes to the topic of accessibility, I have a long way to go in my learning. Heck, it was just last week I discovered the term “cultural humility.” My co-worker mentioned it when discussing a list of interview questions, and in the moment, I realized I would ...

Note: This is Part 4 of my Art and Sustainability Series. If you’re interested in an introduction to the topic, head over to Part 1 here. Otherwise, continue on. Part 4: A Vehicle for Change It’s time to discuss the “frivolous” nature of art. In other words, addressing the belief the production of artwork, whether environmentally friendly or not, is unnecessary. While uncommon, some even argue the materials to create artwork are polluting, and due to its lack of functionality, ...

Note: This is Part 3 of my Art and Sustainability Series. For an introduction, head over to Part 1. For tips on developing an eco-friendly practice, check out Part 2. Otherwise, continue on ☺ Part 3: Environmental Art for Kids (Plus, a Birdhouse Project) When it comes to working with kids, I believe there is no better combo than nature-based art projects. You get a little bit of science, a little bit of art, and a whole lot of fun ...

Note: This is Part 2 of my Art and Sustainability Series. If you would like a quick introduction on the subject, I suggest heading over to Part 1. Otherwise, continue on. Today, we’ll be discussing sustainability within the studio. Part 2: Developing an Eco-Friendly Practice Sustainability—a simple concept, yet rather difficult to execute. Promoted as “easy,” it’s a term overused and riddled with contradictory information. In other words, it’s common to make mistakes. I do all the time. For example, ...

Preface: I’ve been wanting to write on the topic of art and sustainability for a while now. A whole series in fact. Yet, I found the task daunting. Sustainability within the arts can be difficult. Plus, a bit exclusive. Often, it’s presented as effortless, when in many instances it’s not. Sometimes you don’t have the means or the finances to make certain shifts achievable. Mistakes happen often. In other words, the process is a gradual one. As a result, I’m ...

You’d think as an artist, working from home would an easy feat. I mean, how often do you hear about the Thoreaus of the world, who move off into seclusion and produce masterpieces? Or artists like Agnes Martin, disappearing into the dessert. If anything, it feels like as an artist, you’re obligated to isolate yourself at one point or another and become the artistic mystic you were meant to be. Particularly with Covid-19, we’ve been presented the pristine opportunity to ...

I decided to take a walk in the woods. It was quite nice. As I trotted up the hill, I even found a desirable rock. I plopped upon its surface. And then I sat. That’s all. Eventually a few deer came by. A chatty woman. Plus, a phone call from my mother. And then I walked back. Nothing particularly interesting happened, yet it felt special. I needed a break. So, I took one. I was going to write out this ...

Recently, I was writing a letter to a friend on this very topic. We graduated from college last year, and are both experiencing growing pains of our own. It’s difficult navigating the passage of adolescence to adulthood. It’s the whole reason I took up quilting—to ease the transition. Then, it’s been even more problematic in our current climate. How do you find a job? Address racial inequality? Be an advocate? As the world changes, so do we. Yet, being the ...

Sometimes finding motivation is difficult. There are days when you’re in the groove. And there are other days when you’re not. Unfortunately, I was in the “not” category earlier this week. Maybe it’s because of our current times of uncertainty. Or the plethora of bad news. Sometimes, there is no reason at all. Nevertheless, it happens to all of us at some point or another, and that’s okay. Typically, there are two routes of response in situations like these. One, ...

I think we can all agree these last few months have been difficult. My intention was to describe some of these experiences, in order to find reconciliation, connection or something. Yet, we’ve all had our fair share of worries. Plus, I don’t even know where to begin. Too much has happened, and honestly, I’d rather keep that platform open to those better suited to speak. Sometimes I fear in our efforts to help, without a degree of reflection before we ...

It’s our final episode! To celebrate, Kinsley and I decided to make something we could share with others. Using a time old classic – rock painting, Kinsley and I made little rock monsters for her to hide for her brothers. Hiding painted rocks is a fun way to surprise loved ones, and in Kinsley and her brothers’ case, a good source of entertainment. The following hours consisted of re-hiding and finding the rocks, over and over again – an unexpected ...

This week, Kinsley and I show you how to transform old eggshells into plant holders! This was a project I used to do when I was younger, so it brought up fun memories making it with the kiddos. They are very easy to make. Just keep your eggshells for the next few weeks and you’re good to go! Egg Buddies Materials: Eggshells Potting Soil Seeds of your choice Push pin Water Sharpee Directions: Step 1: Prepare your eggshells by rinsing ...

Due to the request of Kinsley, we show you how to make slime in this week’s video! It was our first time in this endeavor, yet we were pleasantly surprised how easy it is to make! It by far has been the most popular project with the kiddos. We just googled slime recipes and discovered using glue is one of the more popular methods. No matter the recipe you use, always make sure there is an adult present when making ...

It seems like we all have that stray sock awaiting a purpose. Well, the wait is over. In this week’s craft, Kinsley and I make sock animals together – specifically an octopus and a caterpillar. While pretty straightforward and quick to make, this project has had a big impact on the kiddos. Likely due to it being a toy in function, it has resulted in lots of playtime (as well as a big distraction) for Kinsley and her brothers. For ...

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, so Kinsley and I decided to make a flower wreath as a gift to her mom! Spoiler alert: Kinsley couldn’t wait until Mother’s Day to give away her present. Inspired by all the toilet paper wreaths seen on Pinterest, we thought making one ourselves would be a fun way to celebrate the holiday. We found this and this blog particularly helpful. To make the project extra special, we included mom’s favorite colors and ...

In our household, we love making homemade playdough! Our secret ingredient is using Kool-Aid, which not only gives it color, but more importantly, makes it smell amazing! In this episode, Kinsley and I use “grape” flavor to make the color purple. If you watch closely enough, you’ll even find moments of us randomly smelling our creations. We can’t help ourselves. That’s the side effect of making playdough that smells good. Homemade Playdough Materials: 2 cups of flour 1 cup salt ...

With the weather warming up, we decided to make plant containers using plastic bottles. It’s a good way to recycle materials you already have lying around the house, plus kiddos really enjoy working with plants and getting their hands dirty. There’s nothing like being given permission to throw around some dirt. Then, I threw in a bonus activity because you’ll already have the materials out from your plant pots. Happy making! Animal Plant Pots Materials: plastic bottles (or any other ...

This week’s activity is a family go-to. We’ve been making homemade pretzels for years, with it being an activity my sisters and I grew up doing together with our mother. The pretzel dough acts similarly to play dough, allowing for a variety of creations to ensue. While Kinsley and I kept our designs pretty simple, you can get surprisingly detailed with your pretzel sculptures. From making flowers, animals to letters and shapes, the options are endless. As for the pretzels ...

The holidays are just around the corner and the kiddos (and adults) are getting antsy. Hopefully this project can alleviate some of that extra energy. I know for us, like many others, it’s been lots of nature walks, art projects, and quality family time. If you can’t tell by this week’s video, despite all these activities, things still manage to get chaotic rather quickly. And that’s exactly what happened while filming this video. While I could easily edit out our ...

Today is the launch of “Spokane Art School - Making Art at Home” where I’ll be providing family-oriented art lessons remotely each week! The aim of this series is to make art more accessible at home, using materials you already have at hand. Each week, I’ll be introducing a new project that you can make with your kiddos and loved ones. This is a great way to take a moment to give yourself a break, creatively express yourself, and most ...

With many of us now working at home, it’s easy to let time slip away. Distractions arise, excuses begin to take form, and slowly the day passes us by. I know for me, it’s been a tough transition. Worlds are colliding and it’s hard to maintain separation. Particularly in the arts, when we have the desire to work when “creativity strikes,” this can be particularly tricky territory to navigate. The problem is it feeds procrastination. With any other job or ...

Amidst times of canceled events, no school and social distancing, it can be easy to feel cooped up. However, there are plenty of ways to access your creative side and stay entertained at home. Here, I’ve listed a few ideas to get you started. And don’t worry, as exhibited in my pictures below, I went ahead and tested most of them out firsthand for you ☺ Art Activities for Kids Learn to make paper flowers! Try out different papers you ...

I recently went to an artist lecture, and their discussion of mindfulness brought my attention to an old memory. It was when my father and I used to sit outside in silence together. When I was particularly young, I was actually somewhat fascinated by the process. I remember I’d get excited when he’d go out there in the evening, anticipating our time together. Once I saw he had completed his daily devotion, I’d slowly make my way out, introducing myself ...

When it comes to sharing the creative process with others, often times, it can be trickier than one would anticipate. It goes back to what I mentioned in my previous post, which is intimidation. For years, we're taught "good" art is the kind that accurately represents our surroundings. If this wasn't your cup of tea, however, you likely had the misfortune of being taught art wasn't for you. So how do we help others get over this, so they can ...

Process over product.  Kids seem to have it mastered and adults get hung up over it. Ironically, it even managed to stump me when writing this blog post, creating a barrier for me as I fretted over the right things to say. Clearly, I’m still learning to embrace the concept. As a result, it remains work in progress. Yet, as I change, so does my practice. There’s a vulnerability that comes with creating, because unlike many endeavors, it’s out there for others to ...