Work in Progress: 1920s Gal

Last time I was shopping in Rotterdam, I found this beautiful paper. The photo doesn't do justice to the gold shine on it. I wasn't sure if it reminded me more of Art Deco or an illuminated manuscript, so I just squashed bits of both together and this is what happened. I'm pretty close to calling this done since it's best to stop before you go one brush stroke too far. This is the first time I've used acrylic since high-school, I think, and experimenting with different media is always fun! The outlining is done with a big fat permanent marker. I'm looking forward to seeing how it looks in a frame.

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

Tour the US: Texas

Canadian River Breaks. NPS Photo

 The Texas panhandle is not known for its interesting and varied scenery. In fact, "flat" and "dry" pretty well sums it up. However, the Canadian River is a distinct contrast, and stumbling upon the lush vegetation and red, iron-rich banks it has carved a path through is a real treat. The best place to appreciate the unique landscape it has shaped is Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument, just outside of Fritch, or about 30 miles north of Amarillo. Here, you can climb up on top of a mesa that not only gives a great view, it is also an expansive archeological site, covered with colorful stone left behind long ago.

Cadillac

I've noticed that, as far as classic American cars, the Dutch prefer Cadillacs. Sure, there may be an odd Ford or two (Chevrolet seems to be completely ignored), but it all comes down to the Caddy. In honor of this, here is a 1951 Cadillac, obviously not cruising through the Netherlands.

Prismacolor on black paper.

DAFT: Opening a Bank Account

Dutch Immigration Part IV

The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty requires applicants to invest €4500 in their business. You will have to demonstrate to the IND that you posses this amount in cash or assets. Plopping a bag full of €4500 worth of coins on the agent's desk is not the best option. Instead, you can open an account (rekening) with a Dutch bank.

ABN-AMRO Den Haag offices. Photo Courtesy Wikimedia Commons

This turned out to be a bit more of a hassle than expected. I contacted ABN-AMRO, which is one of the largest banks and also provides some information in English. What many of their staff do not know is that, as an American, there are special requirements for opening an account for you due to the policies of the US government. Before opening a personal or business account, you must contact the "US Persons" department. I made a