AJ Alanson Author

“Chipped Away” is finished and I’m on to the next sculpture, but this piece has a special place in my heart. I know, I know, I’m an author with a series folks are waiting on, but, honest, I only work on artwork after hours, at the end of the day, when the words are all used up and the only form of conversation left in me comes off my hands.

That said, a protest piece behind glass in my office doesn’t really get out my message, does it? (See previous post: Chipped Away) I’d like to see her out in the world, not hidden away, seeking safety. I guess I’m asking myself “how?” A few years ago, I would simply dial-a-friend. Hey, Mike, you got a show coming up? Hey, James, when’s the next art competition? Now, those long-earned relationships are gone. I uprooted my life recently and have lost my communities: art, music, writing, and much more, but even without moving 2,000 miles, that’s how so many people are feeling; disconnected, disenfranchised, and reluctant to form new bonds.

Maybe this is why I chose The Admiral Inn series as my first big writing project. The story is all about community, found family, and brave new beginnings. I see that message in Chipped Away. Yes, she’s trying to stop the erosion – and corrosion – of her very existence in this current landscape, both as a woman and as a human being, but she’s also piecing herself back together as fast as she can. From the state of her figure, I don’t know if she’s gaining or losing ground. I guess we’ll see.

So, after four years, I’m bravely looking for a new network and asking for good ideas and helpful comments. I’m pretty reliable in creating original content, be it writing, art, gardens, or adventures, and would like to build up a community of thoughtful guests and conversationalists. Consider subscribing below, friending my Facebook Author page, @AJAlanson or following The Admiral Inn series FB page @The Admiral Inn Mysteries and Adventures. I have 9 books of the 12-book series out on Amazon and am finishing up the 10th. I cruise around any number of other platforms, but truthfully, mostly I work on new stuff.

I hope “Chipped Away” speaks to you. This fine video comes from the misty morning here on the acreage to you via an antique piano stool and my sweet husband off-screen working the fishing line. Pretty swank!