
Collaboration

Meeting the Alchemist (artist version)
Along with six other artists “Meeting the Alchemist” was created. We combined our unique backgrounds, experiences, and talents with our passion for words, images, and curiosity. “Meeting the Alchemist” was inspired by our exploration of creating mono prints which have been used in this varied edition of 8. Using a few agreed upon elements each artist created one book and contributed to the one shared version. The lessons learned in the story represent the real-life experience of the seven of us working together. Just like the spirits of this story evolved so did each of us. This book was created by Debbi Commodore
©Debbi Commodore
The artists in this collaborative varied edition Sally Alger, Abbie Birmingham, Debbi Commodore, Dorothy McCuistion, Diane Miller, Jan Ward and Jessie Wing.
Single sheet maze structure on BFK Rives, assortment of mono prints layered with a beads, and woven paper; hard cover with book cloth and beads | 8 x 6 x2.5 inches | 30 pages | Varied edition of 8 | 2023 |Photograph by artist

Meeting the Alchemist (Collaborative version)
A collaboration of artists—Sally Alger, Abbie Birmingham, Debbi Commodore, Dorothy McCuistion, Diane Miller, Jan Ward and Jessie Wing—created “Meeting the Alchemist.” We came together in early 2021 for “The Art of Weaving Words and Images,” a PSBA sponsored workshop. Our backgrounds and experiences differ greatly but our passion for words and images is our common ground. Our joint interest continued with a monthly meeting to share our work, and to teach and support each other. “Meeting the Alchemist” was inspired by our diving into colors together creating mono prints. The lessons learned in the story represent the real life experience of the seven of us working together. We saw our collaboration as built on Trust, Playfulness, Harmony, Problem Solving and yes, Crayola. Just like the spirit of this story evolved so did each of us. We met an opportunity for growth and jumped right in. Who would have thought bonobos would be our teachers?
Single sheet maze structure on BFK Rives, assortment of mono prints layered with a beads, and woven paper; xxxxxhard cover with book cloth and beads| 8 x 6 x2.5 inches | 30 pages | Varied edition of 8 | 2023 |Photograph by artist
©Debbi Commodore

