Review
Part art book, part collection of timeless folksy sayings, Whiskey & Wisdom: A Watercolor Journey Through Irish Sayings and Proverbs distills tidbits of Irish wisdom alongside the gentle colors and simple outlines of familiar everyday objects, pets, and landscapes. Each full-color painting is keyed to its proverb, such as "It's no use carrying an umbrella if your shoes are leaking" opposite to a still life of galoshes doubling as flower vases, and "Even a tin knocker shines on a dirty door" opposite an almost abstract representation of a house. A wonderful gift book, Whiskey & Wisdom shines in its unique balance of verbal and visual art. --The Midwest Book Review, Small Press Book Watch: Sept 2006, reviewer's choice.
It is said God gave the Irish whiskey so they wouldn't rule the world, while wisdom enough to know they should. In this water colored land of mountains and rivers, poets and writers, a band of visiting artists have rendered fanciful images to match the timeless truths of Irish life, giving shape and color to pub wisdom, putting new tint to old traditions. Pour yourself a glass and be transported. Slainte! --Dennis McCann, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
This gorgeous collection of small magical paintings, and miniature bits of ancient wisdom, capture and invigorate one's heart and soul. --Carol Connolly, Minneapolis, MN poet and columnist
About the Author
France Miller lives in Lake Superior's north woods, near Bayfield, WI., where she has operated the Austin Miller Studio & Gallery since 1984. Her work is found in many private and corporate collections. France teaches workshops at home and abroad. Quote the Artist: " I am bound by the love and humor of friends & family and the beauty of Lake Superior, life is good." www.austinmillerstudio.com. Yvonne Foster is journaling this stage of her life in her watercolors, oils and acrylics. She makes paper and artist's book also, but feels her family is her greatest creation. Home is Madeline Island, WI, and Minneapolis, MN, with frequent trips to Ireland with her Irish-born husband.