Hi everybody.

I've decided to start an online newletter to help spread the word regarding all the amazing work that I'm seeing by fellow artists, musicians, filmmakers, educators, and just downright creative thinkers and problem-solvers! I'm so excited. I am continually inspired by the amazing work my friends are doing, and I'd really like to learn more about the work that others are doing around the midwest. So here's the plan... The newsletter will focus on artists and events in Chicago, Milwaukee, Dubuque, and St.Paul/Minneapolis. Eventually, the newsletter will grow and maybe even become a more extensive online magazine. But in order for that to happen, we have to start.  Seriously imagine what a great resource this could be. Seriously imagine continuing to co-create and collaborate with other problem-solvers and having the opportunity to both create and make an income doing what you love!  This work isn't limited to any certain group of people, but it's intended to bring out that creativity which lies in all of us in order to improve the quality of our lives and inspire others.  Would you like to help??? There's no telling where this may lead so if you have a vision or a talent or an idea that you'd like to share, please email me right away! I'd love to hear it! Email me at kristaacoustic@yahoo.com and be specific in the Subject line so I don't think it's spam... :) Best luck and I can't wait to see where this goes!

Wow! I just arrived in Dubuque Iowa and I'm spending the next few days brainstorming and creating at my friend Jordan's "BrickOven Studio." What an amazing place!  Two weekends ago my friend and I came to play at his studio opening and the people were phenomenal! There were so many supportive friends and family and people from within the community.  If you're in Dubuque you MUST check out the space. BrickOven studio provides classes in pottery, mosaic design, tile design, creative writing, stained glass, and even studio time.  Future classes will include glass blowing, life drawing, and screen printing. It's an amazing place with a chill lounge, house guitars, and incredibly creative and positive people.  I had the good fortune of working with Jordan the past two years in Chicago at Big Picture High School and I look forward to collaborating with him on our artistic endeavors in the future. Check out www.brickovenstudio.com !!!