June Kluglein
Self-taught

About five years ago, I discovered lithography and liked the idea and feeling of working on a piece of limestone. As with watercolor, first a photograph is made and then a detailed drawing of my subject. I then trace the drawing onto the stone in the reverse of how it will look when painted. Since sharpening the wax-resist litho pencil has to be done so frequently, some twenty-five pencils are utilized. A hand-sharpener, and then a razor blade, is used to make a fine point. After using the pencil a few strokes it has to be sharpened again. It takes about thirty to thirty-five hours to create a bird's nest on a stone. A Master Printmaker does the actual printing for me. I frequently handcolor them in watercolor.

It was inevitable that after painting subjects using various techniques, that I would concentrate on something closer to my heart. Ultimately my focus was on nature. Being an environmentalist for many years, what I presently do is a link with my beliefs and concerns for the planet. I began painting abandoned nests, desiccated lace-like leaves, grapevines, etc., not cognizant at the time that I was trying to make people aware of their surroundings, how precious it all is and how we must protect it. There is little in nature that isn't beautiful - in some way - during all seasons. I feel blessed by what I see and try to convey my observations in my paintings for all to enjoy.