The Dawn-ing of a Social Lubricant

When I finally launched this project, Dawn is one of the first people I asked to be part of it. I’ve admired her creativity for going on two decades now, both as a teacher and as an artist herself. That part is not what’s new.

A few years ago, Dawn started bringing along watercolors to gatherings. We’d be sitting around in someone’s back yard, and she’d be sketching and painting away … and suddenly the scene would come to life in her little book. As a word person, I find the process of watching a blank page fill with art completely magical. And letting others witness that process seems very brave to me.

But for Dawn, it’s the exact opposite. Creating in public brings her comfort, especially in new settings where she might otherwise feel uncomfortable. And I know because I asked her. (Which will surprise no one, right??)

So here’s a glimpse into Dawn’s notebooks, “borrowed” from her Instagram feed. I can’t promise you an invitation to a backyard gathering where Dawn is creating, but I can promise that you will often find her at a Bici bike club ride on Friday nights and a Ghost Ride every full moon (meet at the Tower Grove Park flagpole at 7:30 p.m.). Dawn promises that both groups are newcomer friendly.

And now, without further ado, here are some of Dawn’s works of art, described in her own words. “They really do bring every sense memory of the moment I drew them back to me when I look at them … and brings me into awareness of the present moment at the time. I’m loving this hobby.”

“Shadows on snow! 😍 I’m just a beginner with it but I intend to keep practicing this winter. Found a new location at Buder Library today.”

“Do I draw buildings with accurate proportion and perspective? No. But can I? Welllllll… why stress yourself to find out, is how I see it.”

“Found a beautiful new place for drawing club - local coffee shop @speakeasycafestl has a gorgeous aesthetic environment to gather! These inspiring gold sculptures and a table from Sicily that the owner said was over 100 years old. “

“Good vibes at the opening of Love Bank Park today on Cherokee. 😎🏀🏀”

“How do you draw about a thousand keys glittering in red light behind an ambient speakeasy? Idk but I love this city. Black paper sketchbook a fun one to take out at night.”

Bonus image of me brandishing a spoon. Because I was emphatic? Hungry? Threatening? Hard to tell, but it makes me smile every time I see it.