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Editor's Notes
As I prepare this second issue of The Writer's Eye, I am struck by the central thread of humanity - our frailty, search for
meaning and hope - in each of the selected works of art, poetry, and story.
It's clear that we are all in this together, playing with the cards life deals us, and doing the best we can. Arising from
our common experiences are unique expressions of the soul.
I hope you enjoy the variety of expressions in this issue. Your comments are always welcome.
Yours truly,
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Featured Writer / Artist
Stephen Mead
Stephen Mead is a published artist/writer living in northeastern NY. As an artist he is self-taught, influenced by both
surrealism and expressionism.
I first became aware of Stephen's work when he submitted "The Prayer," published in this issue. I was immediately impressed
with the variety of textures he employs in his work.
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According to his bio, "In the early 1990's he was published in several literary magazines, but stopped to pursue visual work.
It was in the year 2001 that he began seeking publication again."
I conducted a phone interview with Stephen.
Amber: Why did you stop writing to pursue visual arts?
Stephen: In order to be taken seriously, I thought I needed to choose between the two forms of expression. But, in
the end, I couldn't do it. I need to write and express myself on canvas. To just let out what's coming.
It's funny, looking back. I recently came across an illustrated book that I created when I was 17. I've always wanted to combine
the two forms of expression.
Amber: What came first for you - the writing or the art?
Stephen: Probably the art. When I was 15 or 16, I took some art classes. Then I took a creative writing class. Then
I tried writing novels and found they took a long period of time and attention. I was ultimately drawn back to artwork.
Amber: I notice that you started with pastels. How did your work with other materials begin?
Stephen: Yes. From pastels, I began to paint, then began using watercolor pencils. They gave more control over the
fine lines than watercolor paints by themselves. Then I began exploring artistic expression as a child would and started using
a variety of media, including found objects.
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