Thursday, July 10, 2025

ABSTRACT COLLAGE




NOW SHOWING
AND NEWS 



THE CREATIVITY INITIATIVE:
A New Chapter in Artistic Empowerment 

I'm thrilled to announce the launch of The Creativity Initiative. An IRS recognized 501(c)(3) organization, our mission is clear: making art more accessible and nurturing creativity in our communities.

As many of you know through Leda Art Supply, I've long been passionate about providing quality art materials to creators worldwide. This new venture takes that mission a step further.

Our website features the Creative Corner Blog packed with art education and inspiration, designed to help artists at every skill level grow and explore their creativity. We're also launching several exciting projects, including distributing art supplies to those who need them most and organizing inspiring sketching excursions. MORE: creativityinitiative.org

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"INTO THE MYSTIC" SOLD
An Oak Harbor, WA  couple saw my collage "Into the Mystic" while touring my art studio and decided to purchase it. Glad to have another GJ Gillespie collector and that the painting has found a loving home.
The collector ask me to say more about the art piece. 

"Into the Mystic" by GJ Gillespie SOLD
DESCRIPTION
"Into the Mystic" by GJ Gillespie. Mixed media collage on canvas. 30 x 40 x .15. 2024. Found papers, tissue, cloth, pencil, ink, watercolor, oil and acrylic paint. Title after 1969 rock song by Northern Irish singer and songwriter Van Morrison.

STATEMENT
Into the Mystic' is a contemporary reinterpretation of one of William Turner's naval battle scenes, created using my distinctive collage approach. Turner, a renowned 19th-century British painter, was celebrated for his atmospheric depictions of light and color in landscapes and seascapes.

MORE 
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PODCAST INTERVIEW of Artist GJ Gillespie with host Caroline Italia Carlson.

August 2023
Watch or listen to the podcast!

The interview is live on PassionatePainterPodcast.com as well as Apple Podcasts and all the major podcast apps.

Links to the show notes pages of your specific episodes:
First segment.
Second segment. 

                                                   
My Interview with Caroline. 



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Art in Phoenix Show
Two GJ Gillespie collages in the "Sleeping with the Artists" Show at the Found:RE Gallery. "Twelve Graces" and "I Want to Know What Love Is" will be for sale to guests staying at the Phoenix Hotel until June 2027.













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PUBLICATIONS
GJ Gillespie art accepted in 185+ literary and art journals.
Publications VITA here 
Cover Art

MILESTONE: 150TH PUBLICATION AND 21ST ART AWARD
My collage "She's Come Undone" was selected as a finalist in Sunspot Literary Magazine's "Inception" art contest. This marks my 150th publication and 21st art award - a double milestone in my artistic journey.

About: This abstract seated woman is inspired by midcentury expressionist art and is made with found papers, tissue, crossword puzzles, pencil, pen, cloth, oil, acrylic and spray paint. Title after the 1969 song by the Guess Who.

April 15, 2024 
She's Come Undone by GJ Gillespie.


Dear GJ Gillespie,
Judging of Sunspot Lit’s Inception contest is complete. Your submission has been accepted as a finalist. Congratulations on achieving such a high level of recognition. We would love to publish it in the journal; information on that is found below the contest results.

Here’s the list of this year’s finalists, including works called out for the Best of designations as well as the winner. ...

Your work will appear in the digital quarterly edition as well as our annual print edition.

Keep finding the unique in life and in yourself. People like you to present the world as it is today in a new light.

Regards,

Laine Cunningham, Editor
Sunspot Literary Journal

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ASSIGNMENT LITERARY MAGAZINE
Ediors accept "Helen #4" for publication in Summer issue. Mixed media collage on Wendy's sandwich wrapper.  
Helen #4 by GJ Gillespie. 


June 14, 2025

Dear GJ Gillespie,         


Congratulations! This message confirms the acceptance of your submission "Helen 4" to Assignment Literary Magazine's summer 2025 issue. "Emerge" will be published June 20th. We recommend following us on social media to stay up to date with ALM's latest news.    


Thank you for the opportunity to give your art a platform.


Sincerely,    


Assignment Literary Magazine





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MEAT FOR TEA JOURNAL 
Let's Hang Onto What We've
Got by GJ Gillespie. 


Editors accept my collage "Let's Hang Onto What We've Got" for publication in this literary journal. 


June, 8 2025

Dear GJ Gillespie,

Thank you for sending us "Let’s Hang on to What We’ve Got." We love it and want to publish it in the "Jerky" issue of Meat for Tea: The Valley Review, due for release June 21st.

Best,
Elizabeth and Mark
Meat For Tea: The Valley Review




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SUSPENDED MAGAZINE
Life Could be a Dream by GJ Gillespie. 


Editors of this literary journal to publish my collage: "Life Could Be a Dream" for upcoming issue. 

June 2, 2025
Dear GJ Gillespie,

Congratulations! We would like to publish your art, "Life Could Be a Dream" and "Who Let the Dogs Out of Hades" in our next issue. Soon, you will receive an email with a contract attached for you to sign. Please send your contract back as soon as you can. 

Thank you and congratulations again. 

Sincerely,

Jadae Sweezer, Editor-in-Chief

Suspended Magazine




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QUIBBLE QUARTERLY
Published "Alexander #2" by GJ Gillespie in May 2025 print and online editions! 

Alexander #2 by GJ Gillespie. 


May 14, 2025 

Hello GJ Gillespie

Thank you very much for allowing us to review your work - it's my honor and pleasure to share the exciting news your contribution was selected to be a part of Quibble Quarterly: SPECIAL Volume IV. Congratulations!

Congratulations again, and I look forward to our work together!

Best,
Garrett Souliere
Managing Editor
Quibble Quarterly




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MAKING WAVES: A WEST MICHIGAN REVIEW
Accepts my image transfer in a Leda sketchbook entitled "Duel" for both print and web editions. 
Duel by GJ Gillespie. 



May 3, 2025

Dear GJ,

We are pleased to inform you that your submission of "Duel" in black and white has been accepted for publication in the September 2025 print and electronic editions of Making Waves: A West Michigan Review. We were impressed with the quality of your work and look forward to sharing it with our audience.

Thank you for entrusting us with your work, and we appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with you in the creative process.

Best regards,

Nicole, Kathy, Linda, Josh, and Averey

Editorial Board

Making Waves: A West Michigan Review

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HELLBENDER MAGAZINE 
Barricades of Heaven by GJ Gillespie.


Editors of this West Virginia University MFA literary journal accept my collage "Barricades of Heaven" for publication in April edition.

April 23, 2025

Dear GJ,

We are delighted to inform you that your piece "Barricades of Heaven," has been chosen for publication in Hellbender Magazine. Our Winter 2025 issue has been themed as the “Moving On” issue, and we are excited to publish your work! We expect to have the “Moving On” issue published digitally by late April on https://hellbendermag.com/.

Again, congratulations, and thank you for submitting to Hellbender Magazine!

Sincerely, 

Hellbender Magazine Editors

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𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐙𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐑𝐘 𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐀𝐙𝐈𝐍𝐄
Editors of this literary Journal to publish my abstract figure "Can't Help Myself"
Can't Help Myself by GJ Gillespie.
This mixed media collage on canvas, 36 x 24 x 1.5. 2025, was inspired by Arshile Gorky. Gorky is often described as the founder of abstract expressionism in the 1950s.
April 14, 2025
Dear GJ Gillespie,
Thank you for sending your incredible art to MEMEZINE. The editors and I especially love "Can't Help Myself" and would love to publish it as a feature in May!
Thank you again for trusting us with your work. We can't wait to publish it 🙂
Chel Campbell
Editor-in-Chief



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KITCHEN TABLE QUARTERLY
 
Editors of this literary magazine based in the Ukraine publish two of my collages inspired by northwest mid century artist Kenneth Callahan's horse imagery -- Shadowfax and Whistlejacket. 

April 9, 2025

Dear GJ,

Thank you so much for submitting your work to Kitchen Table Quarterly. We would be delighted to include your pieces "Shadowfax" and "Whistlejacket" in our Spring issue!

Please let us know if you have any questions! We are thrilled to be a home for your work! 


Warmly,

The KTQ Editorial Team

Kitchen Table Quarterly


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Mercury Ascendant #2 by GJ Gillespie. 
RED CEDAR REVIEW
Editors accept my mixed media image transfer in a Leda sketchbook entitled "Mercury Ascendant #2" for publication in upcoming issue.

April 7, 2025

Dear GJ:

On behalf of the editors at Red Cedar Review, we are pleased to inform you that your submission, "Mercury Ascendant 2," has been accepted for publication in Issue 60 for Spring 2025. We greatly enjoyed your work and believe it will be a strong addition to our issue.

Congratulations again on your acceptance into Red Cedar Review! We look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,
Red Cedar Review Editorial Staff

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THE CLOSED EYE OPEN 
This literary journal to publish my collage "Ground Control". 
This is my 185th publication. 
Ground Control by GJ Gillespie. 


March 24, 2025

Hello GJ,

Thank you for submitting! We enjoyed reviewing your artwork and have accepted the piece titled “Ground Control" for publication in The Closed Eye Open. Although this piece was not selected for the cover art, it will appear in Issue XIII, which is planned for a late spring release.

Also, you included a 3rd person bio statement in your submission, so you're all set there.

Thank you for sharing your work with us,

Daniel Morgan

Editor

The Closed Eye Open

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STRAYLIGHT LITERARY ARTS MAGAZINE
Editors to publish my collage "Nothing But Blue Skies" in Spring 2025 issue. 

Nothing But Blue Skies by GJ Gillespie.

February 28, 2025
Dear GJ Gillespie,

Thank you for submitting your work to Straylight. We would like to congratulate you on the acceptance of your piece, “Nothing But Blue Skies ,” which we enjoyed very much.

Your piece will be published in our spring 2025 print issue.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our staff via email.

Thank you for your interest in Straylight.

Aiden Baker

Straylight Art Editor

Straylight Literary Magazine

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DULCET LITERARY MAGAZINE COVER 

"What Is and What Should
Never Be" by GJ Gillespie. 

Thrilled to announce that my abstract collage, "What Is and What Should Never Be," has been chosen for the cover of Dulcet Literary Magazine's Issue No. 2! This marks my 22nd cover art publication. 

February 12, 2025

Hi Gary,

I'm so excited to share with you that your art piece, "What Is and What Should Never Be" was selected as our cover art for issue no. 2! 

Please send me your mailing address as I'd love to gift you a print edition copy of the issue. 

Please don't share this news publically yet, as we'd like to unveil the cover with your featured piece on publication date, next Tuesday, February 18. 

Thank you for your meaningful contribution. 

Warmly,

Kristin Helms
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MEAT FOR TEA JOURNAL COVER ART 
To publish my collage "Boulevard of Broken Dreams" as cover art.
This is my 21st cover. 
"Boulevard of Broken Dreams" by GJ Gillespie. 



February 17, 2025
Dear GJ Gillespie,
Thank you for sending us "Boulevard of Broken Dreams." We love it and want to publish it on the back cover of the "Hot Dog" issue of Meat for Tea: The Valley Review, due for release March 8th.

We love all your work and dream of the day when we can publish a full color journal.

Best,

Elizabeth and Mark, Editors

Meat for Tea: The Valley Review





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ASSIGNMENT LITERARY MAGAZINE

To publish my mixed media collage "Dream a Little Dream of Me" in their "Micromag".

"Dream a Little Dream of Me" by GJ Gillespie. 


February 15, 2025
Dear GJ Gillespie,       

Congratulations! This message confirms the acceptance of your submission "Dream a Little Dream of Me" to Assignment Literary Magazine's Micromag.

Your publication date is Monday, March 31st. We recommend following us on social media to stay up to date with ALM's latest news.

Thank you for the opportunity to give your art a platform.

Sincerely,   
  
Editors
Assignment Literary Magazine



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3 ELEMENTS REVIEW 
Nest by GJ Gillespie. 

Publishes "Nest" by GJ Gillespie.

This is my 180th publication. 

January 30, 2025

Dear GJ,

Thank you for sending us "Nest ." We absolutely love it and would like to publish it in the upcoming issue of 3Elements Review!

Congratulations!

Sincerely, 3 Elements Editors 







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PORTER HOUSE REVIEW 
San Juan Island Ancient Oak Sketch by GJ Gillespie. 
To published collage and two sketches made in Leda Art Supply A5 sketchbooks for this Texas State University’s MFA program in Creative Writing literary journal.

January 20 2025
Thank you for your patience and for sharing your work with us! We greatly enjoyed viewing your pieces and after careful consideration, we have decided your work is a great fit for Porter House Review

We will publish the following: "When the Whirlwind Passes", "Horse Shoe Trail Mt. Baker Sketch", and "San Juan Island Ancient Oak Sketch”.

Thank you again for submitting your work with us and we are so happy to give your work a home! 

Anna McCuaig
Art Editor
Porter House Review


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REED MAGAZINE 
"Mr. Brightside" by GJ GIllespie.


To publish "Mr. Brightside" by GJ GIllespie. Mixed media collage. 21 x 17. 2019.

December 16, 2204
Dear GJ,

Congratulations! Your piece "Mr. Brightside" part of the submission, “Art of GJ Gillespie," has been selected for digital publication for Reed Magazine Issue 158.

Please confirm as soon as possible if "Mr. Brightside" is still available for publication. 

This year, Reed Magazine once again received a record-breaking number of submissions. The art editors agreed that “Mr. Brightside" exemplified the skillful and compelling composition our online edition seeks to promote.

Thank you again for your submission. Best wishes for the holiday season and beyond.

Kind regards,
Allegra Balbuena
Art Editor, Reed Magazine

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Whistler Forest Scene by GJ Gillespie.
QUIBBLE LIT
Publishes three of my collages for upcoming Volume III: "Soul Man", "Whistler Forest Scene", and "Late for the Sky." 
This is my 175th publication! 


December 7, 2024

Hello GJ Gillespie,

Thank you very much for allowing us to review your work - it's my honor and pleasure to share the exciting news your contribution was selected to be a part of Quibble Quarterly: Volume III - Simple - Congratulations!

We would like to publish (online and in print) "Soul Man", "Whistler Forest Scene", and "Late for the Sky." 

Congratulations again, and I look forward to our work together! 
We can't wait to share your creativity with our audience.

Best,
Garrett Souliere
Managing Editor
Quibble Lit

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JUSTE MILIEU ZINE 

Hard to Die When Birds are
Singing in the Sky by GJ Gillespie 
Editors for this science fiction and fantasy magazine will publish my surreal landscape collage "Hard to Die When Birds are Singing in the Sky".  Title after 1974 song "Seasons in the Sun" by Terry Jacks.

December 5, 2024
Dear GJ Gillespie,

Congratulations! This message confirms the acceptance of your submission to Juste Milieu Zine. Your piece Hard to Die When Birds Are Singing in the Sky will be included in Issue 18. Look out for a proof in February. 

Thanks again. 


Sincerely,

Zuri McWhorter





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WELTER LITERARY MAGAZINE
Published "Pinball Wizard". 
Pinball Wizard detail by GJ Gillespie. 


December 2,  2024. 

Dear GJ,

Thank you for submitting your creative work to Welter. We are pleased to accept “Pinball Wizard (detail)” for publication in our Fall 2024 issue! 

Please confirm that the work is still available for publication and reply with a brief (100 words or less) bio and a headshot to accompany your work within the next 4-5 business days.

Sincerely,

The Welter Team



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WILLOWS WEPT REVIEW
Editors of this literary journal to publish two of my collages in upcoming issue. 
Nov. 8, 2024 
The Sun King by GJ Gillespie. 

Dear GJ,
It's great to hear from you again, and thanks so much for sharing your work with us. I’d love to include "Across the Universe" and "The Sun King" in our upcoming Winter 2025 issue.

Our plan is to release this issue on or around December 14, so I’ll be in touch with digital proofs for you to review in the first days of December.

If there are any changes to the mailing address you provided when submitting this work, please let me know—we want to make sure that both payment and a copy of the journal make their way to you.

Best,
Troy, Editor
Willows Wept Review



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ASSIGNMENT LITERARY MAGAZINE 
Woods of Honalee by GJ Gillespie. 


Editors of this Southern New Hampshire University MFA journal to publish my collages "Woods of Honalee (panel 1)" and "The Way You Look Tonight (Black and White version)" in upcoming December 2024 issue.

October 31, 2024

Dear GJ Gillespie,         

Congratulations! This message confirms the acceptance of your submissions "Woods of Honalee" and "The Way You Look Tonight" to Assignment Literary Magazine's Winter 2024 issue. "Erosion" will be published December 20th. We recommend following us on social media to stay up to date with ALM's latest news.

Thank you for the opportunity to give your art a platform. 

Sincerely,  

Assignment Literary Magazine
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BEAVER MAGAZINE
To published my piece "Shrouded Figure" in upcoming issue.
This is my 170th publication. 
Shrouded Figure by GJ Gillespie. 

October 14, 2024
Dear GJ,

Congratulations, we are so "dam" excited to publish your gorgeous piece "Shrouded Figure" in the 11th issue of Beaver Magazine! This issue is set to be published October 31st, 2024. 

Please let us know as soon as possible if your piece is still available. Beaver Magazine does retain First North American Serial and Rights.

Thank you for trusting us with your work, we look forward to hearing back from you!

Sincerely,

Haley & Ellery

Beaver Magazine Editors


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BLOOD ORANGE REVIEW
This literary magazine to publish my collages "Legend Of Xanadu" and "I Go to Pieces," in an upcoming issue.
Legend Of Xanadu by GJ Gillespie.

October 10 2024

Dear GJ Gillespie,

Thank you for sending us your work. We are excited to let you know that we would like to publish the following selections from your visual art submission, Art of GJ Gillespie, in an upcoming issue of Blood Orange Review:  "Legend Of Xanadu" and "I Go to Pieces".

Please respond at your earliest convenience and let us know if the piece(s) listed above are still available for publication. If so, we will email you a contract with details.
Thank you, and we look forward to publishing your work!

All best,

The Editors
Blood Orange Review
https://bloodorangereview.com/

Artist Statement
I Go to Pieces by GJ Gillespie. 
In "Legend Of Xanadu" and "I Go to Pieces," GJ Gillespie explores the rich legacy of mid-century abstraction through a contemporary mixed-media lens. These works draw inspiration from two distinct masters of the era: Arshile Gorky and Paul Burlin, respectively.
"Legend Of Xanadu," influenced by Gorky's biomorphic style, features cryptic figures and glyphs emerging from a layered composition. In contrast, "I Go to Pieces" channels the spirit of Burlin's work, offering a different interpretation of mid-century abstraction.
Gillespie's artistic process unifies these diverse influences through a thoughtful amalgamation of materials: charcoal, collage tissue, spray paint, and unconventional elements like spackle and repurposed newspaper advertisements. This approach not only pays homage to the abstract expressionist tradition but also infuses it with a distinctly contemporary sensibility.
As both an award-winning artist and the founder of Leda Art Supply, Gillespie's work reflects a lifelong dedication to the transformative power of art, whether through his own creations or by providing tools for other artists to realize their visions.
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ROCK SALT JOURNAL
"Into the Mystic" chosen as COVER ART in the Fall 2024 issue. 
Into the Mystic by GJ Gillespie. 

This is my 20th cover. 
 

October 4, 2024
Dear GJ Gillespie,

Thank you for submitting to Rock Salt Journal. We would like to publish your piece "Into the Mystic" in our upcoming Fall 2024 issue.

While we prepare for publication, could you please provide a brief third-person bio for our contributor's section? Thanks so much.

Best,

Jonah Bradenday, Editor
Rock Salt Journal




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LONE MOUNTAIN LITERARY SOCIETY 
To publish my collages "Defying Gravity", "You Are So Special" in the Winter 2024.

September 18, 2024 

You Are So Special by GJ Gillespie. 


Dear GJ Gillespie,

We absolutely love "Defying Gravity" and "You're So Special #4" and would love to publish both! 

Congratulations! This message confirms the acceptance of your submission to Lone Mountain Literary Society. 

Please reply and let us know if you accept. We're looking to publish this issue around Winter of 2024.  

Cheers!

M.H. Lopez

Lone Mountain Literary Society



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MAGPIE ZINE
This literary and art journal will publish three of my collages in upcoming issue. "21st Century Schizoid Man", "Helen #4" and "Aeneas". 
Aeneas by GJ Gillespie. 


September 17, 2024
Dear GJ,

Thank you for sending us your artwork! We loved all three collages and would like to publish them in the next issue of Magpie Zine, which will be released in early October.

First, please reply to this message and let us know whether you accept our offer of publication.

Thank you again, GJ, and we look forward to hearing from you!

Sincerely,
Michelle Quick, Editor
Magpie Zine

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PASSIONFRUIT REVIEW
To publish my collage "Mia Cara" in the Winter 2024 edition.
Mia Cara by GJ Gillespie. 



Inspired by Arshile Gorky figures. Title after 1965 song by Gene Pitney. 


September 17, 2024
Dear GJ,
Thank you for entrusting your submission to Passionfruit, I'm really grateful for the chance to see more of your work.

I would be delighted to feature 'Mia Cara' in an issue of The Passionfruit Review. It will go live in the next 3-6 months - I will be in touch to let you know when it does.

All best,
Katherine, Editor
Passionfruit Review





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Leda and the Swan by GJ Gillespie. 
BURNINGWOOD LITERARY JOURNAL
To publish my ancient Greek themed collage "Leda and the Swan" (detail). This
piece previously was shown at the Hurst Gallery in Kirkland. 

September 15, 2024
Dear GJ Gillespie,

Thank you for sending us "Art of GJ Gillespie". On behalf of the editorial board, we wish to accept and publish the following titles in the upcoming quarterly issue of Burningword Literary Journal, published 5 October 2024: "Leda and the Swan"

If we have questions about your work, we will email you. Shortly after the publishing date, you will receive an email link to a free e-book copy and reduced-rate author's print copies (at cost, with no subscriber markup).

Thanks again.
Best regards,

Burningword Literary Journal
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MEAT FOR TEA JOURNAL COVER ART
Ozymandias #9 by GJ Gillespie.
To publish my art including "Wild Woods Call" an in place collaged photo (meaning the image is made in real life) and "Ozymandias #9" for the cover in September. This will be my 19th cover! 

August 12, 2023

Dear GJ Gillespie,
Thank you for sending us "Ozymandias #9" and "Wild Woods Call."

We love them and want to publish "Ozymandias #9" on the front cover of the "Looseleaf" issue and "Wild Woods Call" in the guts of the same issue, due for release September 7th. 
Best,
Elizabeth and Mark
Meat for Tea Literary Journal





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WRITERS FOUNDRY REVIEW
This literary journal hosted by the MFA program at St. Joseph’s University in Brooklyn, New York will publish my art in the September 2024 issue. 

Hector Foiled by GJ Gillespie. 

July 10, 2024
Dear GJ Gillespie,

Congratulations! This is to let you know we have accepted your pieces "Foiled Hector", "Carousel" and "The Juggler," for the upcoming issue of The Writer's Foundry Review. We are also happy to inform you that your work will be considered for the cover of this issue! 

Please respond to this email and let us know if you agree to give us First Serial Publication rights in the U.S. Once the issue is published, all rights revert back to you. We just ask that if your piece is later published in an anthology or collection, you indicate that it was first published in the Writer's Foundry Review. Please also let us know if it would be okay for us to put your artwork up on our website.

Thanks, congratulations again, and we look forward to publishing your work!

Sincerely,

Writers Foundry Review Editors



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IN PARENTHESES LITERARY MAGAZINE:
COVER ART
Will publish 3 of my collages in spring 2024 print edition:
"Lollipop Lollipop" "The Tide is High" -- including "In the Sky of Mind" as cover art. 
In the Sky of Mind by GJ Gillespie


This is the second time my art has appeared on cover of this magazine (Fall 2021). My 16th cover art overall! 


April 11, 2024

Greetings GJ,


We hope this email finds you well. We'd like to thank you for your submission and are happy to be including your work in the Spring Issue of In Parentheses.

At this time, we are compiling the pieces of everyone's submission that will be included in the print. This process will proceed only until APRIL 12.

We are very excited to get the next issue up and running, as we are in a time that is in very much need for the spread of art.

We will send further correspondence if any part of your submission requires any action on your part. Thanks again for the opportunity to publish your work! We enjoyed it greatly.

One more quick thing, GJ, can you connect with us on twitter or instagram at @inparenth or http://inparentheses.art/ and 'like' us on facebook! http://facebook.com/inparentheses

Sincerely,

Phillipe

In Parentheses 

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INSTANT LITERARY MAGAZINE 
Just One Look Is All
Is Took by GJ Gillespie. 

My collage "Just One Look is All it Took" chosen for publication in this online journal. 

April 4th, 2024
Thank you for submitting your piece! We would love to have your piece "Just One Look" featured in INSTANT. We're all so excited about your art! Thank you so much for submitting :)

Robert Fleming from Old Scratch Press for Instant Magazine



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ENCEPHALON JOURNAL
This online literary journal has accepted 6 of my collage artworks for publication! Encephalon sometimes curates previously published art to go along with poems, stories or reviews.
Fresco #3 by GJG illespie. 

5 of the 6 art pieces are previously published. The editor will credit the original journals where the art first appeared.
*Fresco #3, Unstamatic Magazine, "Fresco #3" – October 2021.

*Visions of Johanna, 86 Logic Magazine, Issue 8 2022.

*Fool If You Think It’s Over, Kithe Journal, September 2021.

*Windmills of Your Mind, Fauxmoir Literary Magazine, July 2022.

*Shelter From The Storm, 3Elements Review, Issue 23 May 2019.

*Heroes and Villains.

March 30, 2024
Dear GJ Gillespie.
Thank you for entrusting Encephalon with your art. We are pleased to inform you that 6 of your pieces has been accepted into our upcoming second issue! At this time, we are still compiling the issue and will update you when we have a publication date.
With over 500 manuscripts, we've had to make some tough decisions and as a relatively new literary journal, we thank you for your support. Please let us know if you have any questions, and congratulations!
Sincerely,
Isabelle Iloreta, Editor in Chief Encephalon
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SUNSPOT LITERARY JOURNAL
My mixed media collage on board "Grand Highway" is accepted for publication. It will appear in both the online spring quarterly issue and the annual print issue of Sunspot. 
Grand Highway by GJ Gillespie.


March 29, 2024

Dear GJ Gillespie,

Congratulations! This message confirms the acceptance of your work, Grand Highway, to Sunspot Literary Journal. We will pass on the other image.We ask for first publication rights. 

Once the agreement is complete, your work/s will be scheduled to appear in our next digital edition. Each digital quarterly edition, along with prior digital quarterly editions, can be downloaded free by visiting SunspotLit.com and going to the Editions tab.

Your work will also appear in our annual print edition. 

Thanks again for being part of Sunspot! 

Sincerely,
LC, editor
Sunspot Lit




Art by GJ Gillespie accepted for publication in 180+ literary and art journals. 
MORE PUBLICATIONS HERE
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About GJ Gillespie 

"The artists that I admire tap feelings of awe that permit the viewer to experience new perspectives of being."
-- GJ Gillespie


Living in a 1928 farmhouse overlooking Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island (north of Seattle) is an inspiring setting for an artist. The abstract expressionist masters who produced haunting images from this region are constant inspirations.

Sketching at the Getty Malibu in Los Angeles
Most of my designs are inspired by art history. 

The artists I admire tap unconscious feelings of longing for existential meaning that emerge from cultural icons. In my view, abstraction should be more than pleasing design. Instead, art should evoke connotations that permit the viewer to experience a sense of wonder, awe and new perspectives of being.

I enjoy experimenting with various media such as watercolor, collage, encaustic and mixed media on paper, canvas and board. I find that the translucent effect of layering watercolor adds depth and metaphorical meaning. 

Following an atemporal style, I sometimes copy the works of old master painters, giving my own take by making them into collages. 

CAROUSEL OF TIME (portrait of Joni Mitchell) by GJ Gillespie
Between periods of art making I manage an international art supply company that sells my own brand of sketchbooks throughout North America and Europe.  Leda Arts Supply.

PRICING
Larger pieces range from $340 TO $2000.  
Framing and shipping is available.
HD Prints
Leda sketchbook with every purchase upon request. 
PayPal: @NWARTIST


Contact here.  




MY SKETCHBOOK COMPANY:


Leda Sketchbooks: more than 5000 positive Amazon reviews!



“All that we see is vision, by generated organs gone as soon as come, permanent in the imagination.” -- William Blake

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AWARDING WINNING ART 

e. 
Helen of Troy Award Winning
Art by GJ Gillespie. 
MERIT AWARD
On August 16, 2024 GJ Gillespie received a award at the Northwest Collage Society Fall Show for "Helen of Troy".
This is my 22nd art award. 

Thrilled to announce that my collage "Helen of Troy" won a Merit Award at the Northwest Collage Society Fall Show! 🏆
Out of 120 collaged scrolls in this juried exhibition, only 9 awards were given. I'm honored that three of my works were accepted, and to receive this special recognition is truly humbling.
MORE 



FIRST PLACE ART AWARD
My submission to ZO Magazine's "Touch of Blue Expo" contest won first place in the Cubism division. The prize includes a $120 honorarium.
This is my 20th art award. 
Horse Of Course
by GJ Gillespie. 


January 20, 2023
Hi GJ,

Thank you so much for submitting to ZO Magazine's Touch of Blue Expo! Your entry "Horse of Course" is our 1st Place Winner for the Blue Expo Cubism category. All entries can be seen at the Blue Expo link below. We are giving an honorarium for this category win of $120.

Again, Congratulations and thanks for inspiring us and our viewers!

Warm regards,
Bonita for the ZO Team

Bonita Zeier | River Alexander | Concept Director
ZO Magazine Touch of Blue Expo

Watch my interview with Zo magazine. 
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Forever Young by GJ Gillespie.
GJ Gillespie wins Honorable Mention in the Art Room Gallery online show for my collage "Forever Young".

MORE about the art













________________________ SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD For "Windmills of Your Mind." GJ Gillespie wins an award for his entry in the Summer 2022 Exhibition of the online Light Space and Time Gallery. See winning art video here.

______________________________________ HONORABLE MENTION ART AWARD
My self portrait "Will You Still Need Me" won an award for the Grey Cube Gallery March 2020 contest.


Will You Still Feed Me (Self Portrait)




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Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying by GJ Gillespie
Collage on canvas. 15 x 30 inches. 2018
Art Award
Northwest Collage Society Show.
Rosehill Community Center in Mukilteo
April 5 to June 30, 2018
MORE







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Art Award
Gillespie Wins recognition at Mercer Island Show. 
MORE  

"Invisible Men" wins SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD in the Light, Space and Time online gallery summer 2021 exhibition. 
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Award at Northwest Collage Society Show. Rosehill Community Center in Mukilteo, WA.
April 5 to June 30, 2018 MORE
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Special Merit Award in the Light Space and Time City Scape online competition. The collage was among 80 pieces selected out of 478 entries.

In addition, a second cityscape abstract work entitled "Desolation Row" earned a Special Recognition Award. Youtube slide show of winning art. MORE 


MIdnight Confessions by GJ Gillespie.
Collage. 21 x 11.5. 2019. SOLD




MERIT AWARD 
GJ Gillespie's piece "Forever Young" was among 80 selected out of 760 entries for the Light Space and Time “Abstracts” 2015 Art Exhibition. See the work at 2:30 minutes into the video of winning art.  The Light Space Time gallery received 760 entries from 23 different countries from around the world.
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"Forever Young" was also invited for the Fiber Fusion Show September - April, 2016.



 

Horse with No Name by GJ Gillespie.
SOLD MORE




Smoke on the Water by GJ Gillespie. SOLD
The day before the end of the 2017 Northwest Collage Society Winter Show one of two Gillespie pieces sold.

The other work entitled "Horse Latitudes" received one of five awards in the show of 55 works by local collage artists.
MORE about the Cascadia Art Museum show.


"Kingdom Within" Honorable Mention in Mind Magazine's Imagination art contest.

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A piece by GJ Gillespie appeared in the 2015 May-June issue of the literary journal the Mid American Review (MAR). 

Of the three GJ Gillespie submissions the judge for the contest chose "Life Cycle" to accompany a story about a young farming couple dealing with the death of a child.   
MORE  here. 


ESSAY: FOREST BATHING WITH LEDA
Get Lost Sketching in the Woods by GJ Gillespie
WHOEVER SAID "stop and smell the roses" would appreciate the health craze called Forest Bathing.

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The artist must have something to say, for mastery over form is not his goal but rather the adapting of form to its inner meaning.”-- Wassily Kandinsky




SIX SHOWS IN AUGUST 2017 In August 2017 Gillespie's art appeared in six shows in four cities, including Kirkland, Seattle, Bellevue and Roslyn. MORE


Vitat Regina (Queen Elizabeth) by GJ Gillespie.
Collage on canvas. 12 x 12 x .75. 2020. SOLD.


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Gillespie featured artist November, 2016 in
Thought Notebook. 







CHOSEN FOR 19 JOURNAL COVERS! 


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Cover Art
Thought Notebook choses Kingdom Within for Cover of June issue. 
Two pieces featured in June, 2016 issue Journal Thought Notebook. MORE
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She's Not There by GJ Gillespie.  SOLD




Ryan James Gallery
GJ Gillespie has appeared in the Kirkland, WA gallery's Subscription Program. 














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ESSAY: FOREST BATHING WITH LEDA
Get Lost Sketching in the Woods by GJ Gillespie

WHOEVER SAID "stop and smell the roses" would appreciate the health craze called Forest Bathing.
MORE

Old Timer by GJ Gillespie
 
















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 Mockingbird (Portrait of Eminem) by GJ Gillespie.
Mixed media collage. 14 x 11. 2020.
“Art will remain the most astonishing activity of 
 mankind born out of struggle between wisdom and madness, between dream and reality in our mind” 
Magdalena Abakanowicz








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Man Disguised as Spirit by GJ Gillespie
Shown at the Bellevue Arts Museum
Order canvas print here. 
"To become truly immortal, a work of art must escape all human limits: logic and common sense will only interfere. But once these barriers are broken, it will enter the realms of childhood visions and dreams."
-- Giorgio de Chirico





PRICING
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Past Shows and Honors 
  • SOLD TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER
    On the Shore by GJ Gillespie. 
    My collage submitted to the Museum Northwest of Northwest Art in La Conner, WA sold at the June 8th, 2024 auction.

    There were multiple bidders and lucky winner paid $120. All funds will be donated to the museum.
    See all pieces in the show. Detail of this piece was published in the Metaworker Literary Magazine, Spring 2024.

  • 𝗚𝗢 𝗙𝗜𝗚𝗨𝗥𝗘: 𝗔𝗕𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝗔𝗧 𝗢𝗔𝗞 𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗕𝗢𝗥 𝗣𝗨𝗕𝗟𝗜𝗖 𝗟𝗜𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗥𝗬. May 1 -- 31, 2025.13 figurative Collages by GJ Gillespie now on display. MORE
  • SAN JUAN ISLAND RESIDENCY MAY 2024
    5 days making art at the U of W Whitley Center, San Juan Island, WA.
    MORE


  • Edmonds, WA. Valentine Show, GRAPHITE ART CENTER EDMONDS. "Love Story: Orpheus and Eurydice" by GJ Gillespie appeared in a pop-up exhibit runs from January 10th to February 15th, 2025, and explores the theme of love 


    "Love Story: Orpheus and Eurydice" is a collage piece that reimagines the well-known myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, a tale of love, loss, and the enduring power of music. The myth tells the story of Orpheus, a musician who descends into the underworld to retrieve his beloved Eurydice, only to lose her forever.


    MORE Graphite Arts Center.


  • Edmonds, WA. GRAPHITE ART CENTER EDMONDS WINTER ABSTRACTION SHOW November 9, 2024 – January 4, 2025 MORE

  • Mukilteo, WA.
    NORTHWEST COLLAGE SOCIETY FALL EXHIBITION: MY 22nd AWARD
    Three GJ Gillespie art works now showing at the Rose Hill Community Center, 304 Lincoln Ave Ste 108, Mukilteo, WA. "Helen of Troy" received a Merit Award. 
    August 1 to October 24, 2024. MORE
  • Kirkland WA. 
    Shine On You Crazy Diamond Art Show. Six Abstract Collages by GJ Gillespie
    JUNE 25 -- July 31, 2024. HURST GALLERY
    MORE
  • Kirkland, WA. EVERYONE'S GONE TO THE MOON SHOW
    See six abstract collages by GJ Gillespie, January 27 to April 22, 2024. Hurst Gallery, Kirkland, WA.
  • Kirkland, WA. Camouflage: a Show of 6 Abstract Figures by GJ Gillespie
    August 1 to October 15, 2023. Hurst Gallery, Northwest University. 5520 108th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98033. MORE. 
  • Woodinville, WA. MOLBAK'S SIP AND STROLL ART SHOW. Three GJ Gillespie collages at Woodinville Arts Association juried event. 

    October 20th-22nd, 2023. MORE 

    Molbaks Nursery 

  • Kirkland, "COLLAGED CREATIONS"  A Show of Six Abstract Landscapes by GJ Gillespie. April 17 -- August 26, 2023
    Hurst Gallery
    Northwest University
    5520 108th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98033
  • 22 Collaged Celebrities by GJ Gillespie 
    April 29 to June 18, 2023 
  • La Conner, WA. ART UP FOR AUCTION "Oak Leaf Pioneer #3" shown as part
    of the Museum of Northwest Art's annual fundraiser in La Conner, WA.
  • Langley, Canada, Civic Center April 12 to May 23, 2023. More.
  • Kirkland, WA. Fallen Stars Show, Hurst Gallery, 21 portraits. January 16 to April 14, 2023. MORE

  • Application to stay at University of Washington's Whiteley Center on San Juan Island approved for five days in August, 2022.

  • Phoenix, AZ.
    Motorcycle Haiku by GJ Gillespie.
    SOLD! 
    April to July 23, 2022. Found:RE Gallery, Phoenix Hotel, 1100 North Central Ave. Phoenix. "Acrobats" and "Motorcycle Haiku."

  • Phoenix, AZ. "I Want to Know What Love Is" in “FOCAL POINTS: Minimal VS Maximal".From December 3 to March 29, 2022. Phoenix Hotel, 1100 North Central Ave. Phoenix. MORE
  • Oak Harbor, WA. SHELTER FROM THE STORM SHOW. 12 GJ Gillespie collages.
    I Will Survive by GJ Gillespie
    Oak Harbor Public Library. September 3 to 28, 2021. MORE.
  • Starkville, Mississippi. "Time On Our Hands" Exhibit, Partnership Art Center. July 7 to Sept. 13, 2021. "I Will Survive."
  • Bellevue, WA. Pacific Regent Show. Three collages in this condo art show. November 2020 to February 2021. MORE 
  • HONORABLE MENTION ART AWARD
    My self portrait "Will You Still Need Me" the Grey Cube Gallery March 2020 contest.
  • "Never Comes the Day" in The Tempered Ruin Press quarterly Bluing the Blade --Volume 1, Number 1 -- December 2020.
  • AWARDS for Blue Girl Gallery Shows
    First Place for Kaw Kaw
    Honorable Mention for Life Cycle MORE
  • Bellevue, Pacific Regent Show
    Bellevue WA     Two pieces in this condo art show.
    No reception because of Covid. Starts June 15.
    MORE

  • ART AWARD, Honorable Mention in the Art Room Gallery online show for my collage "Forever Young".MORE about the art

  • Kirkland, Art Class with Miha Sirani Mixed Media Creation at Kirkland Art Center.
  • Thought Art Magazine
    3 GJ Gillespie pieces selected for current issue.
    MORE
  • Kirkland, Quantum Paint: a solo show by artist Crystal Edwards and curated by GJ Gillespie. 
    MORE 
  • Kirkland, 21 Century Women Show. Kirkland Art Center, June 20 -- Oct. 16, 2019. "The Way You Look Tonight" at the KAC.
  • Kirkland, Desperado Show, 5 abstract collages by GJ Gillespie at Hurst Gallery in Kirkland. August 20 -- October 10, 2019. More.
  • Kirkland, Surface Design In Full Swing Show, Hurst Gallery in Kirkland. May 30 to August 17, 2019. 
  • Kirkland, BEST OF KIRKLAND ART CENTER SHOW, May 11 -- June 16. "Shelter from the Storm." More. 
  • April Envision Arts Magazine, "Something in the Way" a mixed media collage on canvas by GJ Gillespie is featured as a pairing with a poem in the literary and art online magazine. See the poem and collage here.
  • Seattle, Northwest Collage Society Winter Exhibit at Washington State Convention Center. January 12 to March 30, 2019. MORE
  • Kirkland, Earth Angel Show, Hurst Gallery, December 8 to March 23, 2019  MORE   
  • Kirkland. Tangled Up in Blue: Solo Works of GJ Gillespie, Hurst Library, Northwest University, Kirkland, WA. Enjoy ten collages by the professor and artist from April 23 to July 14, 2015. See works here.  Directions.
  • Kirkland. Riddle: Collages of GJ Gillespie. 8 Works by GJ Gillespie at the Northwest University Hurst Library, Kirkland, WA September 14 to December 10, 2014. 
  • Kirkland. Parklane Gallery Show. Four works by GJ Gillespie were shown at the Parklane Gallery in Kirkland From September to November 2, 2014.  Parklane Gallery 130 Park Ln, Kirkland, WA 98033
  • Kirkland. Two works sold at Event to Benefit Syrian Refugees on Nov. 21. Students at Northwest University raised funds for victims of religious persecution in Syria which featured some works by GJ Gillespie. One of the pieces sold, Threshold #3, was recently shown at the Parklane Gallery Show (below). The other work sold was a 10 x 8 inch orange and blue abstract entitled Legacy. 
  • Gillespie CENSORED! 
"Punishment of Prometheus", a collage by GJ Gillespie -- although accepted by the Northwest Collage Society for a show in Mukilteo -- was rejected by Mukilteo officials who felt it is offensive. The city refused that it be on the walls of the Rosehill Community Center. See it here. 
  • Kirkland. Works of GJ Gillespie.       
    11 paintings by GJ Gillespie on display at Hurst Gallery in Kirkland,     WA 2014.  
Contact here. 317-943-3305

Order reproductions. 




Inspired by an Ancient Love Story
Gillespie's Sketchbook Company     
Premium Sketchbook designed by GJ Gillespie. 

In 2016 Gary Gillespie founded his own art supply company selling premium sketchbooks on Amazon.

Now 100,000 books later, the premium art journal company ranks among the top 2 percent of Amazon.com retailers with 5000 five star reviews.  










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