Art Imitates Art (or Squees in a Museum)

This is just a random post to share some writerly giddiness I had yesterday when my kids and I made an impromptu visit to the city to wander the galleries of the Art Institute of Chicago. I have a little story I've written called "Impressionism 101" that's very special to me. I wrote it for a contest called Silly, Sexy & Supernatural, which the story ended  up winning. Then I submitted 500 words of it to D.L's WRiTE Club and it made it through a few rounds. Then I was blessed to have it chosen for publication last year in the debut issue of Insatiable: The Magazine of Paranormal Desire. But even if not for all this, I'd still love the damn thing. 

Anyhow, the story is told through paintings that are part of the institute's collection, and yesterday, front and center as we entered the Impressionism gallery. lookie what two painting just so happened to be hanging right next to each other---my main characters! I know I've been lax on the blog lately (buried in a work project, sorry) but I just wanted to share the silly, authorly thrill of discovering that these two are getting their happy-ever-after. :)

Opening paragraph, Impressionism 101

I’ve been stealing glances at him for the last two weeks.  Always reclined back in his chair with his elbow resting on the table, a cigarette perched between his finger and his thumb. Most of us are just so stiff and formal in here, especially me with my hands crossed demurely over my velvet coat and my hair pinned up properly under my hat as I sit on the terrace with my baby sister. His aspect is much more appealing. I wish I could lounge like that in a rumpled white T-shirt and rowing pants, smoking a cigarette and relaxing with friends.

Speaking of art, on Wednesday artist and writer Michael Di Gesu announced that he's offering wonderful new services for authors! Need a crafty blurb, clever book cover reveal, editing or book cover design? He's your man. 

Also, if you're interested in reading the whole of "Impressionism 101" plus other great paranormal quickies, I'm offering up an opportunity to get your hands on a print copy of Insatiable. 

Okay back to work for me, but I'll be around soon to visit your place!