recreation

More pics from train trip to California...

2011-04-22T15:51:00.001-07:00

The train trip from rain to sun then back again..

2011-04-14T15:39:00.000-07:00

Here are some images from our trip to California- these are taken outside San Diego mostly with my boyfriend's family. The birds are pelicans who liked to fly in formation and dive bomb us and I tried to get closer to them but they were too fast. It was interesting getting to know my boyfriend's family, who got together for his grandmother's 80th birthday, many of who hadn't seen each other in years. I will post more pics soon of the train journey.

adding details to the studio painting...

2011-04-09T17:02:00.001-07:00

This is the latest progression of the studio...there is now the organizing and pruning to be done when my parents return from their trip. Me and my boyfriend went on our own trip to California by train and I'll be posting those pictures soon. I hope that all of you are finding ways to be creative and are enjoying spring if you can.

a room made into a painting!

2011-03-07T15:38:00.000-08:00

Here is the progress of my mom's studio remodel: she has transformed a clinical white room into a three dimensional painting inspired by Matisse, an artist famous for his vibrant colors and abstracted human shapes. It is amazing what form and color can do to a room.
This is now a special room and I think now even in the winter it will radiate inspiration for creation. I don't claim to be an expert in how to change a space into an art studio but I agree with others that changing a space to reflect how it will be used is essential. If this room looked like an office I think it would be harder to create in.
My mom and I have discussed how each section of the studio will be used and when she painted the studio she had in mind where the most color would go to reflect how that area was to be used. The left back corner will be used for sketching,painting,imagining and the right back corner will be used for sculpting and wheel throwing mostly. Therefore, most of the bright colors are concentrated on that back wall to encourage creativity--that is the idea anyhow.
Changing the color,or colors, is a pretty inexpensive way to remodel a room for a different use. My mom found that getting the small sample size paint cans was a cheap way to try color combinations. Light greatly effects how color looks in a room and painting small swatches really helps see if a certain color will work in a room. Notice too the cool small size paint roller my mom used and the handy red bucket with its plastic shower cap-type cover to keep in the moisture.

Evolving studio photos...

2011-02-27T16:41:00.000-08:00

I find it difficult to somehow convey what life is like right now and to show you what I want to. There is a lot going on now what with my developmental psychology class and the unfolding spring with its tricksy weather and, of course, the progress of the studio remodeling. I will simply do my best to show you what is going on and hope that you will find it interesting. The photos I will show you are of my mom's studio just after she ( and I helped a bit!) finished the primer coat on the walls. She showed me her sketches of the mural she wants to create on the walls too. I also took photos of her lovely artwork and the views around my parents' house that inspire her. I couldn't help following the beginnings of new flowers peeking their leaf tips through the soil past dead growth as well as the chickens nibbling in the yard. Each spring seems like another triumph and its amazing that it never fails to delight me. I also love seeing the growing hope in my mother as she proceeds to change her studio space. She has longed for a room of her own to do with just how she wants. Like most of us though, she has that other voice that says ' why do you have to use THAT color? why can't you just use white?' I try to remind her to not listen to that unhelpful voice but she is the one in the end that must battle it. Maybe that's why spring seems even more meaningful this year to me; new growth is a battle against the past and the negativity that can stop us. I will have more pictures soon of the ongoing progress!

Remodeling a studio...what to consider?

2011-02-12T17:09:00.000-08:00

This is a post that I've been thinking about for awhile that hopefully will help some of you who have a studio; be it a small corner or an entire garage. I have the great fortune of getting to create in clay due mostly to sharing a studio with my Mom. It is about the size of a two car garage. Recently, she decided it needed bigger windows--and boy is there more natural light! so while the new windows were being put in why not insulate and paint too? Now we have a great excuse to re-organize the entire studio to maximize space; I will take pictures of how it evolves. I have done some research into how other artists organize their spaces, whether they are large or small. I found some pictures of creative ways that they've found to organize tools, books,etc. On this post I'll show you some cool ways to organize tools and some of the studios. It was difficult to find good closeups so I hope these will give you a general idea at least. I'm hoping to make this an ongoing project so let me know what you think!
The tool holders were made by etsy sellers: Designer's Embellishment Tool Form Size Medium by Evertale, Artist's Brush Rest or Holder by GeorgiesWarehouse, Desk Organizer by lessandmore, and Handmade Artist Caddy by kissesfromana

Out of the kiln and back home!

2011-01-28T17:31:00.000-08:00

I've been waiting for weeks for my life size man sculpture to be fired and yesterday he finally came home with me! My boyfriend came up with me to the studio to help me lug him into my car. He lost a lot of moisture weight in the gas kiln but he was still heavy enough to require two people to transport him. Here are pictures of my guy and the mat of clay I made to accomodate the movement he would make in the process of the temperature increases. It has been an interesting process and just the changes that happen when water based clay dries, heats up and cools down is amazing! He came through the firing pretty well but as you can see a bit from the pictures, he has several cracks in him. Fortunately, the cracks didn't go all the way through the clay. One of the main reasons we hollowed out our sculptures evenly was to prevent cracks. Cracks happen when the thicknesses are uneven. I really tried to be as uniform in the thickness of all areas but there were several places I missed. I will fix these areas with some heavy duty epoxy and mix in some clay grit to mimic the look of the clay: I hope it works! Overall, its been a positive experience and at least he didn't break a part. I think he came out pretty well for the first time doing sculpture this way. Thanks so much for your positive feedback during this process!

Sunday browsing for creative mugs...

2011-01-16T15:36:00.000-08:00

I had the best of intentions to compose a wonderful blog post about studios ( which I will do in the future!) but I've been busy attending a developmental psychology class. I haven't been to school for over four years so this is a big deal for me. It is fascinating and I've been watching some great documentaries--"Babies" and the "Up"series about a group of children from different backgrounds in England as they grow up. Well worth a look even if you aren't going to school and practice observing on a daily basis ( like we do!)
Here is some of the variety of mugs on Etsy...
anatomical heart by foldedpigs
mug with horses by MorrisPottery
Dragon Rhyton by CHISCHILLYPOTTERY
Yer ugly mug by cahokiacreatives
All around the house mug by potterygod
Church door Celadon mug by glazedearth
kitty cabeza mug by CircaCeramics
Octopus mug by monicapharr

Holiday goodies

2010-12-24T16:42:00.000-08:00

There is no snow on the ground but this is the most joyous holiday I've had in years. In Tacoma and in the surrounding areas, there are many talented artists and I couldn't help but buy some of their wares. The ceramic cups were all made by different artists at Seward Park Clay Studio where I took the life size bust class. The glass molded cup was made by local glass artist Oliver Doriss. Our apartment is watched over by this wire man year around. I hope all of you have wonderful holidays!

Loading the kiln party!

2010-12-06T16:22:00.000-08:00

As I type this, mine and my classmates' busts are drying in a medium sized gas kiln. Here we are loading the pieces, very carefully, into it. I mostly stayed out of the way because of my lack of experience with the process. I was impressed with how careful everyone was with every piece, making sure each one fit by measuring the pieces and the space in the kiln. The sculptures were mostly dry but not bone dry in case some part broke. If the pieces were bone dry it would have been almost impossible to fix--fortunately only one finger came off. These sculptures will dry slowly in the closed kiln for about two weeks or until bone dry. Then they will be fired slowly,to prevent air bubbles from expanding and shattering the pieces, over about 16 hours. It will be a high fire so that the pieces will be able to be put outside. I don't plan to keep my sculpture outside but the high fire will make it more durable.

The fascination of the miniature

2010-11-29T16:26:00.001-08:00

I have learned to window shop instead of actually laying out money, like many people do. Its so tempting this time of year to buy too much because of all of the stores advertising 'deals'. I was reading one of my favorite blogs M.M.E's newest posts about how to save money during this holiday season. Window shopping on etsy is one of my favorite ways to virtually shop and not spend any money. I've got a couple other ways that I like to save money and also support local artists.
1) Shop at local craft fairs. You will find quality and handmade goods that will last longer than mass produced items from the mall.
2) Have a clothes swap party with friends or a material swap with other artists. Items from someone else's closet always looks more interesting...
3) Use newspapers and old fashion magazines to make paper chains to decorate a tree or mantle or the rooms in your apartment.
Here are the artisans whose work is pictured: Asian Tea cup and tea pot rings set by charlieccbb, Fiesta ware miniature tea set by paulaspatchwork, mini fruit by minihandmade bathroom set 2 pieces-Patchwork Collection by yevgenia, wood fired creamer and sugar pot by ippuku

These faces are for you...

2010-11-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

I had this quote re awakened in me this morning by my boyfriend about seeing objectively and being aware of what was around you, that the world is a cornucopia and has everything that you could want.
" Do you have doubts about life? Are you unsure if it is worth the trouble? Look at the sky: that is for you. Look at each person's face as you pass on the street: those faces are for you. And the street itself, and the ground under the street, and the ball of fire underneath the ground: all these things are for you. They are as much for you as they are for other people. Remember this when you wake up in the morning and think you have nothing. Stand up and face east. Now praise the sky and praise the light within each person under the sky. It's okay to be unsure. But praise, praise, praise." by Miranda July from the story collection 'No one belongs here more than you'
The beauty of faces, of leaves that fall on the street has been in my thoughts as I hear news of friends losing their jobs. We seem to need to remember that opportunities are all around if we can only see them and shape them into something that works.

More progress on my life size bust sculpture!

2010-11-17T15:58:00.000-08:00

I can almost say that my piece is finished and ready to fire. Here are pictures of the hands and torso at first cut up and in the process of being hollowed out and then fully formed and re attached.
I used 6 bags of clay to make this piece and then peeled away most of it. If I hadn't hollowed it out, it would have weighed about 100 lbs. Also, there were hundreds of air pockets that would have expanded and blasted the piece to pieces!
It was an almost meditative process to take away the clay and to scrape the inside of the body. The torso started to remind me of a building made of stucco. I included a picture of the inside of the body just to give a feeling of what it was like.
In the pictures you can also see some of the other interpretations of the bust. I truly enjoyed working side by side with these other students and the atmosphere was fantastic, positive, and curious. Most everyone was older than me and had lived varied lives, from working as a butler to whispering to animals. For anyone interested in the figure this is an amazing experience.

Progress! first post on my sculpture

2010-11-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

I finally went out and got a new digital camera--a Canon PowerShot G11! This isn't an ad for this company but I'm really happy with it. I understand the wheels and buttons and its not too big and it can take decent pictures in low light.
Also, now I can take better pictures of my artwork which right now is the flat drawings I've been scratching into clay. I also took pictures of the life size bust I'm making in my sculpture class. I will post pictures of the notes I've been taking each class as well.
I've learned so much during this class and so any questions you have about the process I'll try to answer.

Browsing through jewelry from etsy...

2010-10-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

I'm still slacking on posting pics from my life sculpting class and all I can say in my defense is being blissed out by others' work. I'm enjoying my own art process but I find that I like to look outward sometimes too. Ideas are bubbling up for my Halloween costume too...I want to be a dragon woman this year.
Here is some truly wonderful jewelry made by etsy artisans....I hope they inspire you too.
The artists are: Anatomical heart pendant by billyblue22, Anatomical Series Art Print by jodypham, Bangle bracelets sterling twig set of 3 by stratussilver, Blue Flash Labradorite Gemstone necklace by TheJewelryChateau, and Foks Brooch by celapiu

Halloween beauties from etsy

2010-10-10T18:26:00.000-07:00

I am planning to do a whole post on my awesometastic sculpture class but here are some of my favorite Halloween type items from etsy.
And the artists are:
Druzy sphere by GlimmeringGems
Full Moon Rising by ImagineStudio
Lacy heart red leather mask by TomBanwell
Square bone ring by ardent1

Victorian ladies by Musetype

2010-09-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

Another wonderful etsy artist that I met in the chat room, Musetypes, makes these incredible drawn and etched necklaces.
I have never seen this technique used in this small format. I think that you will enjoy these pocket masterpieces.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?

I’ve been selling on Etsy only since mid March, but my wife has had a shop there almost three years. She’s the one who encouraged me to set up shop.

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?

Being a relative ‘newbie’ myself, I really don’t have any sales advice, but I will say this. Create from your heart, do your passion and live your highest creative potential.

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?

Of course, my wife’s jewlery shop www.mataharijewelry.etsy.com. Her passion comes through in all her creations and inspires me to keep going. So do her sales. Being college art school trained myself, I’m attracted to more traditional art shops such as: www.HelenGotlib.etsy.com, www.kmencher.etsy.com, & www.Rudolfkurz.etsy.com. These shops show some true artistic skill, creativity, and devotion to the craft.

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?

That changes all the time. The custom portraits of a customer’s grandmother and great aunt I am very fond of. The fact that someone would trust and pay me to capture a relative, and that they really liked the results mean a lot to me. My Hand Drawn Clay Scrimshaw Nudes and Portraits really excite me because the capture a naiveté and expressionistic quality that I’ve been trying so hard to achieve in my work.

5) What plans do you have for your shop?

I am currently working on a series of twelve digital pen and ink drawings of Victorian women. A departure from the jewelry, getting back to what I love: drawing. I will be selling these as reproduction u-prints. Delivering a digital file that the customer can either print on their printer or take it to be printed.

6) How long have you been creating art?

I’ve been a non-selling artist all my life. I’ve never really put much energy into the selling thing. My art has always been a means of personal expression and a way to feel connected to life. Right now, it’s an adventure to see what is possible, as far as sales go and where working in a more commercial field takes my art.

7) Who are your art heroes?

Kandinsky, Jasper Johns, Edward Hopper, Egon Schiele, and Whistler

8) Where do your ideas come from?

It’s also here that my wife had an influence on me. She’s passionate about vintage things, particularly Victorian era. So, I spent a lot of time on-line looking at and collecting vintage posters, sheet music and photographs. I’m a process oriented type of person. So, a lot of the challenge and intrigue comes in figuring out ‘how’ to do something, like the Etchings on Clay, the Clay Scrimshaws, and the Brass Etchings.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?

Look at other shops. Look at vintage material and go to the art museum.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
When I’m not drawing or making jewelry, I make a living designing and drawing 3D high tech tools and products on the computer. I also enjoy gardening, cooking and playing with my two pet ferrets, Luigi and Sophia.

See his fabulous shop here!

Anticipation of a fabulous class!

2010-08-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

I am balancing working towards an art therapy degree and making art. I wanted to be in a psychology course this quarter but that fell through so I pushed to get in to a wonderful sculpture class. I have taken a class with this teacher before and now we will be creating figurative busts. Her own work is amazing and I highly suggest you check out her work, her name is Tip Toland. She does very realistic figures but they aren't the solemn faces they have a mischievous humor peeking out from behind their eyes. Here is a sampling of her people...I apologize for not knowing how to do hyperlinks.

the wonderful women of corcoise

2010-08-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

I came across etsy artist corcoise in a storque article that was actually about another artist but since he came highly recommended I was curious. I was glad when corcoise agreed to answer my questions and send images of his work. I hope you enjoy these pieces as much as I did. Maybe it will inspire you to explore the truly talented artists selling on etsy.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?
- I’ve been selling on etsy since 2007. Vero Navarro and I had an etsy shop where we sold our collab items, but it no longer exists. This new etsy shop I have was opened only about three months ago.

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?
- Somehow I consider myself a newbie aswell, I’ve been reading a lot of advices on the etsy webpage and blogs: be clear with all the information you give about the items on your shop, be active in the etsy community, choose your prices carefully, etc However, I believe that the most decisive aspect in a shop’s success is the quality of the items that it features.

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?
- Being an illustrator myself, I tend to like illustration related shops more than others. Some of my favorites are: http://www.etsy.com/shop/poppopportraits (because it features the cutest characters on etsy)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/MATTY8080 (I followed Matty’s work long before I gladly found his etsy shop)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/veronavarro (this shop is about a couple of weeks old, but it already has awesome pieces there)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/fricdementol (besides being a great illustrator, Fric De Mentol is also a great crafter)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/celentanowoodworks (how could someone resist an apple shaped guitar, for instance?)

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?
- My favorite one is the soccer girl, it makes me go back to some summer days of my childhood spent on abandoned soccer fields.

5) What plans do you have for your shop?
- For now I intend to keep on selling original works only. But maybe I’ll consider on selling prints too, I already received some feedback from people sad for not being able to afford buying an original piece.

6) How long have you been creating art?
- Well, I started drawing when I was about sixteen (I’ll be thirty-two in a couple of weeks) and never stopped ever since.

7) Who are your art heroes?
- Oh my, so many! And constantly changing. Let’s see… Rodin, Schiele, Mucha, Norman Rockwell. I guess I will never get tired of these ones.

8) Where do your ideas come from?
- Mostly from spending eternities surfing on the internet, watching and reading illustration blogs. I also feel a strong influence of cinema on my work. And at last, in my work I use a lot of ideas that come from memories I have of when I was a child.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?
- I panic and get frustrated, lol. Now seriously, I like to do a lot of different stuff besides illustration so, when I want to draw something but nothing comes out, I grab my guitar and play some songs, I make some crafts (I like sewing and knitting), I go to the kitchen and cook some special recipes, etc.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
- As I already mentioned, I love cinema and I believe that my work has sometimes a kind of “cinematic” feeling to it because of that. I also love music, it also transposes somehow to my work a lot of times. Actually, I just made the artwork for a cd from a canadian band called Nadja, and I feel very happy with the final result.

A celebration of summer...fairies!

2010-07-26T21:20:00.001-07:00

I love fairies and I used to fervently believe in them...and honestly I still believe. Summer has only a little while to go and with it some magic. I love the other seasons but summer has a changeable flimsy sort of quality to it that I attribute to fairies of a certain kind. Here are some wonderful fairy dolls and drawings from etsy artists.
Fairy Wings Golden Plum by chloe
Daleina the Forest Fairy by ZephrDreams
Faerie doors by NothinButWood
Hold on a little more by rupydetequila
Julie Contemporary Folk Art Butterfly by cartbeforthehorse
Leaf green dragon by thefiligree
Baby Faerie by sbellestri
Whimsical Gothic by PaperWhimsy
PunchOutLinearA by Cody Pendant

Layers of dumpster trash and pictures I found

2010-07-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

Here is another collection of photos I found of people in dumps, art inspired by dumps, a general slide show of inspiration. I am stewing in images in the hopes that I will come up with some art based on it. A friend invited me to collaborate with her on a show about a dump near where she lives.We collected all kinds of things from this dump--old oil cans,squashed and battered tea kettles, unidentifiable wire bits linked together. I found some parts of old porcelain sinks too. I think these bits look like old bodies really and that we as people are as much a part of the landscape that we create. I will make some sketches and scan them at some point.

amazing and cool textures I found today!

2010-07-03T17:06:00.000-07:00

I've always loved textures of sand and metal and things that I can't identify immediately. Part of being a person and an artist has been looking at the world from a different point of view and sometimes forcing yourself to change your perspective. I was actually looking for paintings online and then I found these awesome photos from many places. Some of these are from an electron microscope. I started to see worlds in these photos...

painting in black....

2010-06-21T18:29:00.000-07:00

Here are some in progress pics of what I've been making in my mom's clay studio. Some of them are made with regular groleg clay and the couple with their hearts cut out is made from paper clay. I really liked the idea of drawing into the clay and also painting on it. I was inspired by the awesome modern dance photos that I posted several weeks ago...it made me want to draw couples instead of single people.

being an artist in a bad economy part 2--LucidOpticLab

2010-06-15T18:50:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to present another survey filled out by none other than the friendly and talented etsyian LucidOpticLab. I've read her blog posts and I think you will find her a good example of how an artists gets out into the world.

How do you promote? Has your promotion strategy changed since the economic downturn and how?

Honestly I feel the economic downturn is nothing new and started before I was an adult so frugality is nothing new for me. I find I promote by sharing and connecting with my community and the world wide web community through pursuits that I personally find uplifting and inspiring that do take up a lot of time and energy but weight less on the wallet- such as:

- Getting involved in my local art community-Making friends with local gallery owners- working together to make the gallery and the shown artists known through grass roots community efforts and fundraising. Entering my artwork into any free art gallery group shows I am invited to ( this tends to really widen my circle by introducing my artwork to new networks of people while simultaneously finding new inspiration and connections through the art and artists I am showing with)

- Art fairs/art walks- in Portland I find there are a lot of monthly free art fairs and art walks to attend. Setting up a booth on the street and hanging out and talking to all that happen by is a great way to meet more people in the community- gage what people best respond to and have the chance to physically put a business card into someone’s hand. For me meeting and talking to people on the streets at these events mean much more to me then selling a bunch of my art that is on display at the event. It’s the ability to get out there and meet and greet that seems to have the most impact on my scope in my local area.

- I love to share photos, thus flickr.com is perhaps my #1 promotion tool on the web. It seems the more I share and interact with people this way the larger my web footprint is made, especially since flickr images ( when tagged correctly) show up very often in google searches and what not… making my art accessible to anyone in the world. You can join groups which you can post your images in- thus reaching various audiences bond together through common interests and goals. I also am able to use flickr as an image hosting site that allows me to directly upload said photos onto my blog.

- Blogging is another major promotional tool. People seem to be really interested in being able to access “insider” info on artist and their creative journeys. I make it a point to post every Monday and Friday- sharing my photos and art along with my creative works in progress, inspirations, goals and current events. The blogosphere seems to be ever growing and turning into an interlocking technology based model of the collective consciousness idea. It’s a great tool to utilize for promotion and inspiration if one can find the time to get it going and stay consistent with postings and content.

How are you adapting to the downturn? Ex: cheaper supplies, reusing supplies, etc?

- I have always been low income level and thus have been impassioned to create with whatever supplies are around me. I have believed that it is not the quality of the art material that makes a piece but the passion and intent of the artists that adds value. Thus I use what is typically referred to in the art material world “ student grade” products vs “ artist grade” products. I find this also allows me to sell my art work for less which in turn provides accessibility of art to all walks of life. I think affordable art is key in making sure art and artistic expression is kept from becoming a pleasure reserved for the “elite” or “well to do” of the world.

Does your art help you to cope/communicate with the world about the downturn?
Do you think that art makes a difference in the world?

-I would like to think that my art and the art around me allows for the human soul to rise above the material platform and contemplate and feel that which is beyond the unfavorable man made oppressions that are present. Its important to be able to shed the ego and trappings that modern day society taints our minds, bodies and life patterns with. art should be an aid in escape from this- allowing for elevation beyond into higher energy, emotion, healing, growth and communion.
The artwork above: new painting, Aparition of Truth, and Venomous

Being an artist in a bad economy, part 1

2010-06-07T17:38:00.000-07:00

Aberrant Ann, the Audacious Anomaly, Brave Daughter of Euripides, Erechtheus, Feathered King all by cobaltmoonchild
This is a subject that I've been thinking about for a long time; make that three years. I am often surprised at how creative artists are at adapting to hard times ( although artists are creative so that crosses over to other areas) and I asked several artists I admire to answer my questions. This was the first artist to reply etsian cobaltmoonchild--an artist who intrigues me and hopefully you too! Also I hope that these answers will help you being an artist in these times.

How do you promote? Has your promotion strategy changed since the economic downturn and how?

I have joined several communities strictly for promoting etsy stores. I also cross-link my sites with my various online galleries to improve traffic back to my etsy shop. I would say my promotion strategy has relatively stayed the same, as my particular shop is for artwork, and thus I can't offer much of a discount... I have tried cutting my prices down in order to recoup expenses... but that still doesn't seem to work.

How are you adapting to the downturn? Ex: cheaper supplies, reusing supplies,etc?
I have changed mediums, made different types of art using cheaper supplies (relatively). I also have started working with collage more, which is a very recycling friendly medium.

Does your art help you to cope/communicate with the world about the downturn?
I think my artwork is haunting within itself, and merely reflects what the individual viewer gathers from it.

Do you think that art makes a difference in the world?
All art makes a difference, it is the symbol of a thriving culture, and an enlightened society.

Sunday afternoon tea and sculpture browsing...

2010-05-30T17:59:00.000-07:00

I've been visiting my mom at Fox Island and looking at some clay pieces I'm working on inspired by couples' dance poses. Looking at sculpture on etsy, I found some wonderful head sculptures that inspire me too.
Artists include: Cheshire cat by tonytahoe
Who am I by ceramiclove
polymer clay sculpture by deetsy
Spring tide by cobaltmoonchild
Yellow head by jennymendes
The Missing Name Creation by ceramiclove
Cat head with cherry by murtondishes
Ed by mwedge

Photography and movement that inspires me...

2010-05-28T16:21:00.000-07:00

I haven't felt like I've had much to say on my blog recently. I've been working a little for the Census and I have been procrastinating on making labels for my necklaces and purses so they can be shown at a store. Also, my birthday just passed and I can't believe I'm 34. I have started exercising again which is painful but necessary. A mixture of growth and stagnation. Here are some beautiful images that I love looking at and sometimes drawing and using them as inspiration for my art.

Browsing through etsy on a beautiful spring day...

2010-05-08T17:12:00.000-07:00

Here are some cool items that I found while thinking of my Mom and how she likes gardening and garden sculptures...I hope that you enjoy them too.
The artists of these pieces are:
Flock of Feral Glass by FeralGlass
Grass Hopper by frivoloustendencies
Illuminated Crow by Crows Cloth
Illusion by GardenAdornment
Indian Mask by RobinsonMendanka
Metal Scroll Art Planter by KnobCreekMetalArts
Laughing friend by AdrienArt

Thinking about mothers makes me think of Almodovar...

2010-05-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

I had a yearning to see "All About My Mother" last week which is one of my favorite Pedro Almodovar movies. I wasn't even thinking of mother's day until after the movie and thinking about the entwining relationships of women in it. What I love about this movie is the complexity of emotion and how the actors seem like real women, not models emoting. There is real tragedy...like a woman losing her son in a second to a speeding car, and the camera turns upside down, just like her world after seeing her son dying. I promise that I won't reveal any more plot!
I really recommend it especially as an artist--the movie has wonderful bright colors and great camera angles that inspire me in my work. I have always felt that movies inspire me a lot as does dance. Movies have to have good composition for every single shot in it so I think looking at good ones really teaches you.
Also, regarding mother's day it reminds you of just how much mothers sacrifice for their children and how many mixed emotions go into a mother-child relationship.
Is there anyone else who is inspired by movies and which ones are they? Drop me a line and let me know...

Rodin and Camille Claudel

2010-04-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

Here is some of the work of two amazing sculptors who actually cross-inspired each other. Rodin is more well-known but Camille Claudel is his equal and was rediscovered later on. There was a movie made of their romance and art making which is called " Camille Claudel" I think...definately worth seeing. It is sad that she spent most of her life in a mental institution because she was rejected by Rodin. It makes me feel lucky to live now when at least women have more legal rights but it is an effort for many women who are artists to find their voices even now.

The inspiring sketches of Leonardo da Vinci

2010-04-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

I've had a book of Leonardo da Vinci's paintings and sketches ever since I was ten. Looking at them and copying them has taught me a lot as an artist. He was curious about nature and it shows in his drawing style...the spiral lines he uses to draw water makes you think you can hear it rushing by. This spiralling line also shapes his drawings of men and women.

Inspiring pictures of puppets from the weburbanist

2010-04-08T14:47:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share some cool pictures that I found on a site called the weburbanist. I was looking for 'adult puppets' and they posted an article on several different artists who make them.
here are the artists from top to bottom:Marina Bychova, Julien Martinez, Kerry Kate Patterson, Jan Svankmajer, Elizabeth McGrath,The Brothers Quay, and Beth Robinson

Pics of my brown woman puppet fired! and some new artwork

2010-04-06T14:27:00.000-07:00

Here are the pics of my fired brown woman puppet and some new flat clay work which will turn into shadow boxes. Next for the woman puppet is to attach her together like a doll using very small springs so that she can hopefully move...we shall see which will be the best way to do that.

Cool egg pieces from etsy people!

2010-04-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

I was browsing on etsy the day before Easter and here are some pieces that I found with an egg theme.
pieces created by:
Handcarved Emu Egg by 1eggman
Dinosaur Eggs Pendant by Marcus Berkner Jewelry
Faceless Dolls by loreleiSF
Egg Sprouts by Revisions
Cream colored egg cocoon by beckys baby crochet

Awesome puppets from etsy sellers

2010-04-02T18:38:00.000-07:00

Cool Friday etsy pics of some amazing puppet creations...I hope that you will find them as inspirational as I do!

Here are the artists who made these puppets from the top:
Anipoma Nemorosa and Gusgustavio by SandraArteaGa
Clarissa-a handmade puppet doll by RoseLullabyDolls
FifiBunnyFingerPuppet by mrssewbot
mermaidshadowpuppet by owlyshadowpuppet
MonsterFleeceFingerlessGloves by BoysenberryLane
Zizzor-DecorativePaperPuppetScissors by crankbunny

An update on the slowly drying brown puppet woman!

2010-04-01T17:58:00.000-07:00

My slowly drying brown puppet woman is finally fired today! It has been quite a process slowly and carefully making sure that her parts don't crack. Fortunately, the clay that I chose to use which is a terracotta with mica flecks, holds water like a sponge! I originally stopped working with water based clay because I got so frustrated with it drying fast and collapsing or cracking. This terracotta clay is fantastic though! It is great for sculpture because it has ' grog' or big bits of sand that make it more like bricks( ie stronger). I also think that I appreciate water based clay a lot more now so it makes me able to be more patient.
Here are some photos of her drying and when I have photos of what she looks like fired I will post them. Thanks so much for all of your interest in her!
Also, here are a couple of pics of some other work in progress that are going to be in shadow boxes I think...

Crows

2010-03-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

I

started reading a book called ' Crow Planet' ( I forget the author) which shows how crows have become as much a part of our lives as our cats or dogs. They have so much personality and this author found that almost everyone she talked to had a crow story of some kind. I was thinking of crows today so I found some images online and on etsy.

Wonderful leaf items from etsy...the fascination of leaves

2010-03-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

From top to bottom:
Pathways( Metallic print) by TrueStory
Fairy Sleep by lewfoster
Maeve Earrings by Kande
Stained Glass Leaf Filigree Pendant by colorshoppestudio
FourSeasonForest by WowWall
Athena's Love Nest Necklace by luxedeluxe
a touch of life bracelet by Lana0Crystal

Monday etsy faves--shadow box art

2010-03-22T13:03:00.001-07:00

Left to right
Theatre of Love Nouveau Toy Theatre by TheTinyTiara

Shadow Box- Luminous by sweetruin

RED TIDE by MalcolmStudio

cyclops 10 by grrkey

Some ideas for shadow box designs...from etsy supply shops!

2010-03-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

I'm
working on some flat clay art work with cut outs of the heart and I was browsing through some
etsy shops which sell shadow boxes. There are about three etsy shops that I could find that had them. I definately was inspired by the variety of the sizes and shapes. They do tend to be pricey if they are made of good wood. I'd thought I'd show you what I found and perhaps they will give you ideas too...Let me know what places you like to shop for shadow boxes!
The sellers from who I found these supplies are:
frame from solid wood- CoolVintage
Matte black picture frame/shadow box- MySeriousSide
unfinished wood match box shrine with wings- TerraMaya
unfinished wood shrine box with top stylized arch- TerraMaya

Sketches for more Shadow Anatomy pieces

2010-03-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

Here are some ideas for more on a ' shadow anatomy' theme. I made one piece which was a silhouette made from clay and I showed some organs like the brain and a heart. I don't have a picture right now of it but its in a gallery. I am trying to create some more pieces 'like' that so these are some ideas. I tried drawing with my Wacom tablet, as you can probably tell, which I still feel weird about. It is fun but I definately don't have the same amount of control as over a pen or pencil. Some lack of control can be kind of interesting really and I am not sure how to control the pen sizes yet. How many of you like the tablet drawing tools? I don't use mine a lot so I can't really justify buying a new and more advanced one...

New Monday faves...thinking about dolls

2010-03-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about dolls and mannequins that look partly human and partly robot. I'm trying to create a series based on people that you can see inside and outside...i'm in that weird in between stage of art where you don't really like what you've created but you hope that you are getting somewhere. What do you do when you are on the fence about your work? Do something else? Here are some of my favorite etsy doll-themed work.
The artists are : Baby Fight-print by Frankenkitty, Kitchen Fairy art doll by Shadovnia, Lee, a handmade doll by RoseLullabyDolls, marionette Columbina by AMCreatures, Phillipe doll by foxcat, Original pastel doll drawing by elephantwalk, The FOXY One-Eyed Pussy by MicroCirqueRinka

Belated etsy faves...

2010-03-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent favorites of mine from etsy artisans/artists...its a motley blend of items which I hope you will enjoy. I find all of these items inspirational in some way.
Brokenghostcouture-blueberry pie dress
Alive-Sacred Squamata by Sarah Hoyt of essarah
Bad Girls by AlteredHead
Handforged silver cuff by KaelinDesign
Victor-Gothic Anteater by WoebegoneArt

Lovely brown woman puppet sculpture in progress!

2010-03-06T17:21:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of my on going sculpture. She is now in the process of drying as gradually as possible. Fortunately, the clay holds lots of moisture so she hasn't cracked yet (i'm still crossing my fingers!) I am trying to make sure that all of her parts fit back together so that she can move like a marionette. Let me know what you think!

New Velvet Heart Necklaces!

2010-02-28T14:49:00.000-08:00

These anatomical heart necklaces were inspired by my grandma's bag of lovely old velvet scraps. It has taken me a long time to get them photographed but here they are. They are a great way to show love for your mom for mother's day which is coming in May!

Lovely Saturday viewing--sculptural art

2010-02-27T17:48:00.000-08:00

New Work pics--in progress!

2010-02-23T18:02:00.000-08:00

I brought my camera with me for the first time in awhile while I worked with clay. I've been going to my mom's ceramic studio for once a week to work on some bigger projects...which for me is about 2feet tall! I don't have pictures of that but I have these pics of some smaller pieces made out of this cool terracotta clay that has mica chips in it; It gives the clay a lovely sparkly quality.

Update on the heads!

2010-02-22T11:18:00.000-08:00

I've been very slow on taking pictures of these heads as I work on them. I am enjoying applying encaustic ( wax ) onto them over the pastel that I rubbed onto the bisqued clay. I really like how I can control the color unlike with traditional glazes that are normally used with clay. Perhaps its because I've never had any patience with chemistry or I like to see what I'm getting right away. I also like shaving the chalk pastels into little pastels and blending the colors on the clay surface. Its easier to see the surface once the pastel has been rubbed in, another nice feature of this technique. The wax that I paint on top of the pastel ( after I spray it with fixative) helps to varnish the surface. Let me know if you've tried this technique and what you think of it...

Etsy clothing faves...from sexy corsets to comfy slippers!

2010-02-15T14:14:00.000-08:00

New Monday faves!

2010-02-08T14:57:00.001-08:00

Monday faves of etsy artists...

2010-02-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

I think I'm going to do a regular Monday favorites to highlight lots of great etsy artists...enjoy them and check them out!

More building destruction pics...

2010-01-26T14:34:00.000-08:00

Pastel Progress with my ceramic heads!

2010-01-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

I rubbed in shaved pastel colors to the bisqued surface...I hope you get an idea of the color that I came up with, it was difficult to get the accurate color!

More etsy artist faves!

2010-01-05T12:58:00.000-08:00

Since I don't have photos of my own work, I thought that I'd share more of my favorite work from fabulous etsy artists.

A new beginning--clearing out the old

2009-12-10T13:57:00.000-08:00

This has been quite a month so far, opportunities to be in an art show "Disturbia" and a 'Cash Flow Art Show' coming this Thursday and Friday. My beloved grandma Lisa died one day before her 90th birthday...and so its been a strange topsy turvy feeling. I did get to visit with her before she died...about 2 weeks before when she was visiting my parents. She was a great supporter of my art work and her life was full and creative so she was a great role model of a working writer. I have a great feeling of creative momentum inspired by her and a wonderful non-traditional doll-making class.
As for my etsy shop, I am going to clear out most of the art that has been there too long and list my newer work. And on my blog I want to hear from you my viewer and reader and hear what you are interested in seeing. I want to hear what you like about my blog and what more you'd like to see. I appreciate all of you that comment and read here, thanks very much for your support!

the MiniBlog

2009-12-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

check out this cool blog...this is a great way to promote your etsy shop too...I am still figuring out how to do it so let me know if you made it work.

Meet JMTolman and her fantastic characters!

2009-12-04T09:56:00.000-08:00

I think that I met JMTolman in etsy chat as I've met many of the artists that I post here...I felt that you needed to meet her and see her characters. Some of these people I think I've met and have made me laugh out loud.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?
Since January 2009

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?
You must advertise outside of Etsy! Promotion within the site is good, but you're advertising to other sellers. Join forums, find site that are relevant to your shop and advertise them, use other social networks, etc.

The other piece of advice is for artists: Art is hard sell, unless it is a product (ex: Jewelry, stationary) or a custom piece for the buyer. Keep an open mind about what you can sell.

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?
http://www.etsy.com/shop/mscorley- Fantastic illustrations. Just wonderful.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/gloomth- The clothing designs are one of a kind. You can tell they love their work!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/brainscan- I bought Stolen Sharpie Revolution and it changes my views on print, design, and the DIY scene. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to publish on their own!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Shrinkle- Another clothing line. I have one of their dresses and I love it.

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?
Whip It!: This was the first gouache/pen painting I ever did, and I still like it!

Everyone is Disappointed in You: This is a painting from a workshop- the setup was the two woman (sans part hats) and the table of booze. Well, the models and the class started cracking jokes, and I decided to add my own twist. The angry Victorian portraits is my favorite part, hands down.

The Dopiest Vampire Necklace: I just think it's funny.

5) What plans do you have for your shop?
I want to be able to sell enough so I can pay off my tuition for college. Right now that's all I have planned for it. As for my art, I do a variety of commissions- I'm only 20 years old, so I need to establish myself and prove I can do the work.

6) How long have you been creating art?
Since I was three or so. A very long time, heh.

7) Who are your art heroes?
Alphonse Mucha, JC Leyendecker, Brom, Junko Mizuno, Amano, Toulouse LaTrec, Jhonen Vasquez, Junji Ito, Edward Gorey, and JH Williams!

8) Where do your ideas come from?
I'm honestly not sure how specific ideas come about, but they're all influenced by my interests- I'll explain below.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?
Take a break for a hour, or start over with a new approach. Sometimes a design just doesn't work, no matter how much work you put into it.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
Horror, music (I have music-to-color synesthesia, so this is a big influence) fantasy, sci-fi, pop culture history, punk, fringe culture, cabaret, magic shows, the paranormal (from a skeptic's point of view) old movies, and fashion.

Some of my favorite things from etsy artisans....

2009-11-28T14:27:00.000-08:00

Three Rabbits drawing by HellsSewingCircle
Surreal art card by WoebegoneArts
Red cloth slippers by netamir
Zoli painting by shealeigh
Tourmaline and sterling silver ring by Menno

The delightful TemporaryInsanity

2009-11-25T09:11:00.000-08:00

This seller is relatively new to the etsy selling world but has been working in her medium for many years and is also an interior designer. She also has a wonderful sense of humor that comes through in her work that I think you will enjoy.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?

I have been selling on Etsy since October 2009.

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?

It’s hard for me to give advice to other Etsy newbies, since I still have so much to learn myself! I have started a Facebook Fan page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Temporary-Insanity/179811324930?ref=ts and I made a marketing postcard at www.vistaprint.com with pictures of The Vintage People that turned out great. Vistaprint has so many free offers! I got free business cards from them and a free banner for my craft shows. I don’t think you can really beat free! I haven’t gotten the hang of twitter yet, but I’m working on it. For now, I talk, talk, talk about what I’m doing. I’m a Gemini so that’s pretty easy for me.

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?

There are so many sellers whose work or shop I admire, I don’t think I could possibly begin to list. The fact of the matter is I could easily spend my whole days shopping on Etsy and I’ve told everyone in my family that we should just have an Etsy holiday! There’s definitely something for everyone there and part of the fun is in the searching. It really is a treasure hunt, something that is near and dear to my heart.

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?

My favorite pieces in my shop are Helen Makes Heavenly Music, Ruby says, LOL and Randy Randy. Helen is just so sweet with her toy xylophone body and her slightly tipped halo. She’s a good girl, but not too good. Ruby is named after a good friend’s alter ego. She’s like me…just getting into the social media thing and LOL is her catch phrase for everything. Her little skirt is the rack from a toy pool set. She was fun to make…like a puzzle and she’s colorful and whimsical and I find her very entertaining. LOL! Randy is, well Randy and I think we’ve all known a guy like him. Or…is that just me? Randy has some stunning springy body parts and his pulley…well, it makes things go up and down. And his heart belongs to mama. What more could you want in a guy? You can probably tell I have a soft spot for saints and sinners. As I design each of The Vintage People, they come to life for me. Their personalities start jumping out and I begin to hear their story. It’s fun.

5) What plans do you have for your shop?

In the future, I’m going to add some beautifully decoupaged cigar box purses and mixed media jewelry that will also be made of found objects. And I plan on being featured on the front page one day!(I think I can, I think I can….) You have to believe! It’s very likely that I will start another Etsy shop for vintage items as well.

6) How long have you been creating art?

I have been creating art all my life. I had my first art show at my grandmother’s house when I was about five. My relatives obligingly paid dimes and even quarters for my first creations. If I remember correctly, they were crayon, the big box of 64 colors. Then I moved on to painted rocks that my uncle sold for me in his flower shop. Later, as a rebellious teenager, I began fashioning deerskin leather halter tops and purses. (Am I dating myself now?) They were adorned in hand cut lacing, feathers, and turquoise stones. As an adult I became a floral designer and later I started the first incarnation of Temporary Insanity. I wanted to work at home with my then two small children and I started a hand painted clothing business that had a cowboys and Indians theme.(I live in Colorado.) That lasted for seven years and we had a great run. Fun times! Now I juggle my art with interior design, which I also consider to be an art form. Interior design is really a giant 3D collage, mixed media assemblage of colors and textures, space and form. I love it too. I need to be creating at all times. My people come from all the stuff I’ve collected over the years, simply because I was attracted to it and knew that one day , it would become something real, like Randy.

7) Who are your art heroes?

I have one art hero and that is my uncle, Charles Maloy Love. He is in his seventies now and still creates the most fabulously delicious floral designs in his shop in Mountain Brook, Alabama. He taught me about art, exposed me to design and taught me to always do my best. That’s what I’m trying to do now.

8) Where do your ideas come from?

Most of my ideas come from the way I look at something. I’m very visual. I’m always processing, processing what I’ve seen. My favorite thing is making something out of nothing. When I’m looking for parts for The Vintage People, I am thinking of body parts and suddenly that’s what different objects become!

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?

When I have a creative block, I either spread my treasures all around me to look at them or I flip through files I’ve made of magazine pictures. I always see something different later. Of course, I’m listening to music the whole time too!

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?

I am a scavenger at heart. There’s nothing like the thrill of the hunt! I love to look for antiques, shop at thrift stores, garage sales, anywhere I might find something different or unusual. That sets the tone for my other passions, art and interior design!

Terrie Hall

Interior Designer

designthehallway@gmail.com

DESIGN THE HALL-WAY

11533 Running Creek Lane

Parker, CO. 80138

303.332.6835

303.840.6418 fax

A peek into the world of artist LivaRutmane...

2009-11-16T13:36:00.000-08:00

I don't remember when I met Liva Rutmane but I know it was in an etsy chat room and I was instantly fascinated. Her style reminds me of some Russian cartoons and surrealist artists but she has a unique interpretation. I just know that I like visiting her world and I hope that you will too!

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?

it will be a year after month and a half

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?

I still feel like a newbie, still don't know what is my target market and I still feel really confused about what other people find interesting, so it's an experiment for me
but after a year I have discovered, that patience and learning constantly is very important, I have never sold my works before on internet, so there's so much to learn, forums and blogs are great place to find information.

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?
I really don't have favorite shops, on etsy, I like a lot of stuff around here, for example - I really like http://www.etsy.com/shop/sealmaiden because shes a great person, she have nice style, then I like http://www.etsy.com/shop/ruffeoheartslilsnoty because their style is very specific and colorful, http://www.etsy.com/shop/michelemaule because of traditional printmaking, http://www.etsy.com/shop/etaletc way of photographing things is unique, and so on, I really like a lot of shops, there is so many talented people, that to choose something ir very hard...

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?
I like this one
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26712874 I feel like I have accomplish something new, I like to draw illustrations, and somehow this is the best ;)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33715580 just a weird sketch, something interesting about this
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33329899 - it's shiny and golden and I love how it looks on my wall, I don't want to take it off, haha

5) What plans do you have for your shop?
none, really, I know it's not right, but I feel little confused when it comes to goals for my shop, it's a great feeling when I sell something, so I guess, my goal it to have this feeling more often

6) How long have you been creating art?
for a while, since 2000, it's when I discovered art school, and how great place it is, then I started to draw, paint, and make plans for the future, and since then I know what I want to do for a rest of my life, it's a very calming thing.

7) Who are your art heroes?
and again, it's not that easy to choose some, there is so many - Yayoi Kusama, Hyungkoo Lee, Hundertvasser, Misha Gordin, Terry Richardson, so many interesting ideas!

8) Where do your ideas come from?
Just living, things around, thinking, talking to people, thinking again, sleeping is a very important part of my creative work

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?
I don't have those, I just start to do something and then it's all ok again, and usually I have something that need to be done, something for a larger project, so I can't just have creative blocks

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
I love photography, but not as work, I could never be a commercial photographer, I have tried, it's not working

thank you!

For better views of her images, visit her shop
http://www.etsy.com/shop/LivaRutmane?ga_search_query=LivaRutmane&ga_search_type=seller_usernames

New green leaf necklace with plum pearl!

2009-11-12T19:13:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of my new necklace! I took them with my Mom's phone camera and it amazes me how good her camera is actually! I was inspired to make these by the green silk fabric that I made the leaves out of and I've always liked purple and green together. Let me know what you think!

The magic of dogzillalives

2009-10-24T14:23:00.000-07:00

Here is the interview with dogzillalives...i've chatted with her and seen her shop on etsy grow and been amazed at the new pieces she's added. I learned through this interview that she is self-taught! Be sure to check out her shop and see her fabulous bracelets and necklaces.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?

Since late April of this year.

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?

Don't give up! Keep creating, keep listing, and keep promoting!!

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?

That is a hard question!! There are so many talented people on etsy, its hard to choose! I found this one the other day,glassaddictbeads.etsy.com they make these lampwork beads and the colors are just WOW.

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?

The octopus arms have to be my favorite right now. I've never seen anything like them, I amaze myself sometimes. hahaha

5) What plans do you have for your shop?

Well, I'm trying to start making simpler, more inexpensive pieces, but its been hard for me to grasp the whole "simple" concept. O_o

6) How long have you been creating art?
For as long as I can remember. I am self taught, there is always something new to learn. Art is an amazing never ending process.

7) Who are your art heroes?
Hmmm, I wouldn't say heroes, but some of my all time faves are H.R. Giger, Salvador Dali, and Alphonse Mucha.

8) Where do your ideas come from?
My head, haha. I don't think I could ever get all the ideas out even if I lived to be 100. Nature, plants, fungi, sealife. The possibilities are endless.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?

Go outside, or read a good non-fiction book, and of course hang out with my 2 year old.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?

I love going to thrift stores and looking for junk that i can use in my next masterpiece. ;^D
Here is her lovely shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7266795

The many colors of Ravencolours!

2009-10-17T13:47:00.000-07:00

I have known ravencolours in chat for as long as I've been selling on etsy so I'm delighted to show you her work. Her photos have many moods from the happy to the mysterious.
1. How long have you been selling on etsy?

I have been selling on etsy for about 10 months, I started my shop in January.

2. Do you have advice for etsy newbies?

Be patient and promote. Don't expect your first sale right away, it takes awhile for people to discover your shop, so don't give up hope! Promote, promote, promote. Go to the chat rooms, create a facebook page, anything to help word of your shop to spread around. And participate in shop critiques the advice you get from those is invaluable. Also, stay true to yourself. If you try to change your style to something you think may sell better then your not selling your work anymore. You're deceiving your customers and yourself.

3. What are your fave etsy shops and why?

This is a very hard question, haha. I have way to many to list. i'll just narrow it to say all the amazingly talented photography shops on Etsy. It's all so inspiring and there is so much talent. Also, graphic tee shops. I'm a sucker for any quirky unique design that I know no one else will have.

4.What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?

I have to say I love Color Me Multi and Morning Coffee. One, because people really seem to like them and two, because I love the colors and I think they really say a lot about the direction I'm trying to go in as a photographer.

5. What plans do you have for your shop?

To sell photos! I just hope to get bigger and start selling more. I'm in college right now and it's just great to have something like this on the side to help me decompress and take the stress off. It'd be great to have it as a way to support myself reasonably well, but that's just me dreaming big. Right now, I just want to get my name out there and have people learn something about how I see the world.

6.How long have you been creating art?

I have been dong photography for about four years, I started as a junior in high school. I learned in the darkroom with the chemicals and the film, it was very retro and I loved it. I now do pretty much digital but my heart and inspiration will always be with film.

7.Who are your art heroes?

Claude Monet is definitely one of my major art heroes. I grew up working in the garden with my mother and watching a movie called Linnea in Monet's Garden at my Nana's house so you can see where that originated. Sandro Botticelli's Birth of Venus painting. I love all the history behind that piece. Photographic heroes I'd have to say Sebastião Salgado, Richard Avedon, Harry Benson, Dorothea Lange and James Nachtway just to name a few.

8.Where do your ideas come from?

Everyday life, a great song, me daydreaming during class. I guess my ideas come from just me trying to put my spin on everyday objects and giving my thoughts and emotions an outlet.

9.What do you do when you have a creative block?

I'm majoring in photography right now in school so whether or not I have a creative block I have to go shoot. I just try to power through it and see the beauty in whatever it is that I happen to be shooting. Always have your eyes open and try to be seeing pictures, no matter what your doing.

10.What other interests do you have that feed into your art?

Photoshop definitely, though I'm not sure if you can call that a hobby or not. I love just getting on it and experimenting and trying out new filters or combinations just to see if it works or not. Music in general is a huge inspiration to me, it's even in my materials list in my shop! I've been involved in some type of musical activity since kindergarten so whether I'm listening to it or participating it's a huge influence on my work.

Show some love for ArtfulGoodies...a great etsy shop!

2009-10-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

I've chatted with ArtfulGoodies on etsychat and seen her shop grow in variety...here is her interview so you can get to know here too.

1. How long have you been selling on etsy?

I opened my unique jewelry shop this year in February

2. Do you have advice for etsy newbies?

My advice for an etsy newbie would be promote all you can, list regularly, have something unique about your ahop and stay positive.

3. What are your favorite etsy shops and why?

hmmmmm..... There are so many! I love everything from soaps, crochet, pottery, jewelry, kid items and so much more.

My chat friends I love because they know how to make my day better when I need a lift and they have a variety of wonderful shops.

4. What are your favorite pieces in your shop and why?

At the moment
My cute and adorable BEE BLUE earrings. I love the style and they are super comfortable to wear.
The beautiful RED POPPY pendant beacuse I adore poppies! So much so that I have them tattooed on my back.
FALL LEAVES is just perfect for this time of year. I love the colors and the picasso beads.

5. What plans do you have for your shop?

To keep things fresh and be open to change. I would love to become a great seller in this large world of handmade.

6. How long have you been creating art?

I have crafted since childhood and tinkered all my life. Jewelry has been a passion of mine before but in the last year my love for jewelry expanded into my unique etsy shop.

7.Who are your art hereos?

Oh soooo many! I find hereos in every area of art. I love murals and there are alot of great muralist that I look up to. I also enjoy fine art and local artist in my area. One of my favorite artist is my 7 yr old daughter. It is such a joy to watch your child create something spectacular at such a young age. She will be so much better than I ever thought of being.

8. Where do your ideas come from?

Inspiration comes from things I love like nature, birds, buttflies, scrolls and all things pretty. My darker side loves skulls, crows, and tattoo related items. I throw everything I love into my pieces so that they are as unique as I am.

9. What do you do when you have creative block?

Well...I GO SHOPPING! lol Being creative all the time is hard. It helps that there are so many cool and unique products out there now. So when I get in one of those slumps my best cure is to go shop the craft store and get inspired.

10. What other intersts do you have that feed into your art?

I own and operate my own business WALLEXPRESSIONS. As a decorative finsher/muralist for 12 yrs now I have my hands dirty often. My painting relates to my jewelry in many ways like being creative with color, texture, and materials for pleasing finishes.

More pics of porcelain heads!

2009-10-06T17:04:00.001-07:00

Finally took pics of porcelain person in progress...

2009-10-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

One of the pictures I took the other day while working on my porcelain woman sculpture/puppet.I've been going to my mom's clay studio to work on her for the past month or so,which is pretty disciplined for me, and she has no cracks or anything! I just went to work on her more this Sunday which meant hollowing out her insides so she isn't heavy and doesn't explode. Solid clay figures will explode because tiny air bubbles in the clay expand in the heat of the kiln oven. I will post more photos as I recieve them.

the Art category is hidden on Etsy...sign this petition if you agree

2009-09-25T16:38:00.000-07:00

This petition will hopefully help the Art category from getting hidden on the front page of etsy. Please take a look and if you agree, sign it.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/artonetsy/index.html

An Interview with Dutchfeltart...

2009-09-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

This artist makes everything from handbags to shawls and she makes them so well and with a distinctive touch that is all her own. Felting is a process that I don't know much about and so how she creates these pieces is fascinating to me. I hope you'll check out her shop to see the full range of what she is capable of.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?
I have been selling on Etsy since April 2009

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?
I think you have to be original, both in your creations as well as your photo's and titles.

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?
I have a few favorite shops and especially the shops where i can buy exclusive fibers, mostly wool with other materials carded in a unique bat. Furthermore, when I am looking for something special for my daughter or myself I look on Etsy.

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?
I had a seamless felted fairy coat, it was not on Etsy (on flicr it is showed) which was my absolute favorite because of the colors and the model. This has been sold yesterday in a fair. My favorite in my shop now is the "Hole in one" 3D felted boa. This is in my opinion very unique.

5) What plans do you have for your shop?
I will link the etsy shop to my website. At first my website www.dutchfeltart.com was just a gallery but a lot of people ask for a shop.

6) How long have you been creating art?
Since I can remember I have been busy with fabrics and fibers approx 8 years ago I started with woolspinning and I suggested the group to do something else with the fibers and I started small workshops at home.

7) Who are your art heroes?
Brigitte Krag Hansen

8) Where do your ideas come from?
Ideas come when I am playing with my daughter or when I read a bedtime story (most of the times it is about elves, pixies and fairies) , walking in the nature, or when I am sitting on my attic with all the fantastic fibers around me.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?
Nothing. A few years ago I just kept on with felting projects but when I finished them I just was not satisfied about the creations. Nowadays I accept not to play with fibers for a short time and I noticed inspirations comes much quicker in that way.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
Fantasy world, walking in the nature, or just sitting on a terrace and observing everyone and everything.

11) How did you get interested in your medium?
Wanted to do something with the wool from our sheep and then I got fascinated the way felt was made.

Here is her contact info:
Share Your Website Address:
http://www.dutchfeltart.com

Visit My Shop @
http://dutchfeltart.etsy.com

See More of My Crafts @
http://dutchfeltart.blogspot.com/

My Twitter:
http://twitter.com/dutchfeltart

The wonderful work of Tanya Pshenychny or razorberries

2009-09-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

I just met this accomplished artist the other day in chat and knew that you all would want to know more about her.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?
Since June 2006, a little over 3 years.

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?
I've learned tons of stuff.. let's see.
- Your customers are #1, so always reply your convos asap and don't forget to thank them. Send a handwritten note with their order, it might make their day.
- Don't list everything you've got all in one day, list a couple things a day so your things don't get buried in the search.
- Talk with people on Etsy -- participate in the forums, go chat, but be friendly -- it all reflects on your shop.
- You might not have a sale for a while, but don't let that discourage you, just keep going, research, ask questions, and try to have fun. It takes time and luck. When the right person sees something you've made and falls in love with it, they'll buy it.

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?
This is hard. I let my favorites list get out of control and now it's 63 pages long! Here's a few at random:

http://skunkboycreatures.etsy.com - caution: these little stuffed animals are so cute, your head might explode.

http://DirtyAssSoaps.etsy.com - who knew soap could be so fun? And I love the name.

http://ozknits.etsy.com - gorgeous yarn. I don't knit but Helen's shop makes me wish I could. She is a sweet person, too.

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?
Weathered 11x14 Archival Print - I created the image while going through a rough time in my life and it exists a reminder that there are storms everywhere, can be unpredictable, some are worse and last longer than others, and eventually they have come to and end. And if you make it to the other side, you're stronger.
Pink Freud 8x10 Archival Print - Because striped pink giraffes are awesome. Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it's not there. But now you see it, right?

5) What plans do you have for your shop?
Well, I'm working on creating some ACEO (Art Cards, Editions and Originals) -- originals only. And I want to do portraits with my spin on them, so I will be trying to emphasize that in my shop.

6) How long have you been creating art?
Drawing probably almost as long as I've been breathing, really. Being an artist seriously, as a career, since graduating high school in 2003.

7) Who are your art heroes?
Again, there's a ton.. but the most famous are:
James Jean - http://www.jamesjean.com
Salvador Dali
Tim Burton

8) Where do your ideas come from?
Connections of random things, people, animals, observations/conversations/experiences, colors, textures, music, weather, media, metaphors, stories.. Actually, my head is pretty empty except for a tiny mouse who sits in my skull and does crossword puzzles all day.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?
I look at pretty pictures, roam around, go on walks, drive to random towns, wasting gas. If that doesn't work, I tell the mouse that if he doesn't get back to work, I'll feed him to my neighbor's cat.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
My second love is photography, don't know how it feeds my art -- it just does. It's the peanut butter to my raspberry jelly sandwich. Yes, it has to be raspberry, says so in the mouse's contract.

Here's her lovely shop on etsy! Razorberries

Looking at pictures of older sculptures..

2009-09-05T12:12:00.000-07:00

Remembering the apartment destruction

2009-08-31T18:50:00.000-07:00

Here are some slides I hadn't looked at for several years of an apartment tear down. I was fascinated at the process and yet felt guilty for documenting it. I talked to a man who was originally from an African country and he thought it looked like a war had hit the building. It was a window to a world that I never knew.

New Twisty bracelets!

2009-08-23T17:07:00.001-07:00

I can't seem to stop making these wrapped bracelets...they are fun! I'm putting different bead combinations from my stash of beads. It's interesting to see how the wrapped toggle is part of the design for me. Let me know which are your faves!

Better pics of PaperMockingbird's lovely pieces

2009-08-16T14:02:00.000-07:00

New Halloween items at my etsy shop!!

2009-08-13T16:32:00.000-07:00

I just took these pics of my new Halloween and Day of the Dead items...I hope you enjoy them. They are okay but at least the lighting is spooky!

Presenting..AmorandStitch!!

2009-08-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

Another wonderful etsyian! Her work reminds me of the tradition of needlework and yet it is definately modern. She blends the bold and the feminine...I hope you will enjoy her work.
1) How long have you been selling on etsy?

Since mid June 2009

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?

Do all you can to promote yourself and take a visit to chat as I have met some wonderful people there who have been very helpful. Believe in yourself, the sales will happen!!

3) What are your fave etsy shops and why?
I love ComestibleKid's Shop, as it's got some really funky retro items. I love nearnu, vintagebarcelona because I love vintage wear I own lots of vintage myself and you can never have enough : ) and I love the thinking about who owned it before me, where its been e.t.c

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?

I love my pendants, as they are so unique and I am going to start to create interchangeable art pieces for people to purchase so they can change the look of the pendant. I like the Geisha girl, as she is so beautiful and it took me a long time to create this piece so I don't think I will do another, and Finally I love 'A man never stands as tall as when he kneels to help a child' cushion as it is a lovely way to capture a memory of your newborn or child.

5) What plans do you have for your shop?

I am really enjoying etsy and I plan to continue making and listing, but I also want to create some prints of my art to make cards and art canvas's for the wall. I have also just launched my own website www.amorandstitch.com check it out!

6) How long have you been creating art?

I have been creating art since I was a child, I went from school to college onto university I then worked as an art psychotherapist for 8 years. In that time I discovered the magically link between emotions and art on a much deeper level. I am noe enjoying being a mum of two little people and creating my art.

7) Who are your art heroes?

I love Gustav Klimt,Tretchikoff,Andy Goldsworthy,Jean Micheal Basquit are just a few of art heroes.

8) Where do your ideas come from?

I get inspiration from lots of different areas, but I mostly sit in my garden watching my children playing and make sketches of possible art pieces, so I guess from life.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?

Read a book, the one I am reading at the moment is 'Angels in my Hair' by Lorna Byrne, is wonderful.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?

I guess my love for vintage, as I like to use vintage images and materials in my work, i am starting a new collection of embroidered postcards next week.

An Interview with Papermockingbird...

2009-08-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

I am excited to present this interview with etsy jewellery artist Papermockingbird. I have admired her unique pieces for some time and have wanted to know the story behind her work.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?
Since March 2009

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?
Take some time to really initiate yourself with the Etsy site - It's so easy to think that once you've set up your shop that all you have to do is sit back and wait for the sales!
Chat with other etsians and get them to critique your shop for you - they will pick up on all the things you missed. It's good to get an objective point of view - your own view point is too emotionally attached.... oh and last thing - good clean photos! (it's taken me a while to get minimal but I'm getting there)

3) What are 3 fave etsy stores and why?
AAAAAAAGGHHHH!!!! How can I only pick 3????!!! there are hundreds which I absolutely love! ok well these are just from skimming through the favourites I have hearted but at the risk of spending days trying to decide - there are others which I love equally as much!! So:

Copperinc - because his/her work is so adorable and appeals to my dreamy and sentimental side.

Yellena - because her drawings STUN me and INSPIRE me! I WISH i was this talented!

Katwise - because when I saw her shop and read her blog it reminded me to add a bit of impulsive craziness back into my everyday life and everything I do. An amazing and memorable woman. I'd like to meet her!

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?

I love my "Hundertwasser" necklace. Its sort of my signature piece and I will be sad to see it go if I ever sell it. It reminds me of drawings and buildings by Friedrich Hunderwasser and I thing it is just a beautiful object which I am proud to have made. I also love wearing the "wish it was summer" bracelet because it's so dainty and cheerful and I remember it putting me in a good mood when I finished it!

5) What plans do you have for your shop?

I make hats and other objects using crochet. They're kind of a little different from your regular crochet hats - I use a lot of textures and colours which you wouldn't expect to see. I need to get a good sizing system right though - so far I've been using my own head as a template but I've realised my head is way too big and the hats dont fit anyone else!!!
So anyway, come this winter I'll hopefully have some ready to sell.

6) How long have you been creating art?
All my life. I loved art at school, I went to art college when I finished school, I studied design at university... I love to paint and draw and sketch. Jewellery making is only a recent thing which started last year when I found myself living in france with no job and in need of some money - so I set myself up a little market stall and my small taste of success gave me the confidence to enter the Etsy world where, so far, I haven't experienced the same luck. I write poetry too but thats not something I share with many people. I find it extremely therapeutic though.

7) Who are your art heroes?
In no particular order: Freidrich Hundertwasser, Egon Scheile, Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Picasso, the Fauves...I'm easily enticed by colour!

8) Where do your ideas come from?
I have boxes and boxes of broken jewellery, beads, shells, buttons and other treasures. I spend hours rummaging through them and finding bits n bobs which look interesting and go together...I never start out with an idea - they emmerge while I'm creating something. Sometimes I start with 1 button or bead as the central focal point and then work around it.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?
Go for walks in the countryside, see some large open space, meditate, cycle, sing. I find that a "block" of any sort boils down to needing to release some pent-up energy - bad thoughts, stress, anxiety, worries etc so anything that helps me shed those things helps me out of my block. (if that makes sense)

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
I am passionate about music of all kinds...I like learning about unusual musical instruments from all over the world and the origins and evolutions of different types of music...for example: traditional african music to blues and jazz; and indian nomad music to djano reinhardt and gypsy jazz...everything links together. I like discovering lyrics to hundred year-old folk songs and trying to understand what inspired someone to write them.

Presenting the wonderful jeweler AmongTheRuins

2009-07-24T14:01:00.000-07:00

I am happy to have Kim's interview and pictures. I haven't interviewed a jeweler yet and am curious to see what she has to say. Her work is very original and beautifully made which is what drew me to her pieces. There are a few jewelers that are artists as well and she is definitely one of them.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy? I have been on Etsy four months now.

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies? Go to the chat rooms, read the forums, visit the virtual labs. The people on Etsy are so incredibly helpful and generous with their knowledge. Take advantage of that! Also get on as many networking services as you can handle - Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, etc. I have had sales directly from those places. It is how you get your name out there and let people find you.

Be patient! It takes time to build a business and especially an internet business. You may have a terrific product and a great looking shop, but it will still take time to get your name out there where people will find you.

Do everything you can to get better at your craft. Learn new techniques and skills. Constantly hone the ones you have. Take classes or find artists who are willing to mentor you. You can learn just about anything from the internet. There are tutorials in almost every subject and craft! I have learned so much just by Googling different techniques I wanted to learn.

3) What are 3 fave etsy stores and why? RiverOtterWidget is one of my favorites. He makes incredible steampunk art lamps and wood carvings. He encouraged me so much when I first started out.

BlueNostalgia is a favorite of mine because she makes simply beautiful jewelry! Every piece in her shop is just eye candy to me!! Plus she's a great chatter.

beadifulbaublesSC is another jewelry maker who is a favorite. Her designs are exquisite! Her use of color is wonderful! And she is the sweetest lady!!

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why? My favorite pieces in my shop are the necklaces made from steel wire. Those include Rhapsody, Clara's Necklace, Forever Chained, and Key To The Dungeon. I have the most fun making those. It is really hard work and I get lots of ouchies, but I love hammering the wire and bending it and forming it. I love to see the final result because I don't have a picture in my mind while I'm creating them, I just "go with the flow" and see what happens as I go! So it's always a bit of surprise for me.

5) What plans do you have for your shop? I plan to keep growing my shop and expanding my inventory. I'm in the very beginning of my business now, so I plan to just keep working and finding new ways to get my name out there.

6) How long have you been creating art? I've been creating art for most of my life, but in such small ways until this last year or so. I always liked to draw, but only played around with it occasionally. I dabbled in jewelry making many years ago, but never really found my passion in it. It's only in the past 12 months that I really have found a passion for art.

7) Who are your art heroes? I'm afraid I don't have any art heroes yet!

8) Where do your ideas come from? Sometimes I see things in nature that inspire me. Sometimes it's other peoples' designs that give me a new idea. Sometimes an idea just pops into my head. Those are the really cool ones. Most of the ideas are more like feelings, and not visual ideas, per se. I'll have a feeling for what I want a piece to evoke emotionally and work from that, with only very vague ideas of the physical shapes involved and colors.

9) What do you do when you have a creative block? I find the best remedy for creative block is to stop trying to create. Go away from my work area and so something completely different. I'll know when the creative flow is back again and when to return to the studio. It is hard to do because I feel such a drive to produce new items. But pushing directly against creative blocks, for me, just does not work. I have to shut it down completely and redirect my mind. I may do some housework, or walk the dog, or play a game. Just anything to occupy my mind in a different direction. That always loosens things up again eventually.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art? I love to look at urban ruins, especially those of old psychiatric hospitals and asylums. I know that sounds a bit dark, but the architecture on those places was so incredible! And the stories that those walls hold are stories that I want to listen to. So much humanity was lost behind those walls and it's the only thing I can do, is to listen to their stories.

I have been a musician since I was very young. I love music. I love to listen to it and I love to play it. I am a violinist and pianist. I am very inspired by music in my jewelry art. Many times when I feel a bit dull, I put on some music and that dullness vanishes. I am especially partial to classical music. The choices are absolutely endless in the classical genre, for what mood, what color, what shape you want to hear. It seems infinite! It is so rich!

Sarahahaha!!!: I got bored and it's 80 degrees ...

2009-07-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

Sarahahaha!!!: I got bored and it's 80 degrees ...

Cool photographs by Giovanni Tosta

2009-07-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

Dance pictures for inspiration...

2009-07-02T00:04:00.000-07:00

I have been asked to show my work at a gallery in a dance studio and these are some of the pictures I found just looking around on the web. I've been doodling and I needed some photos to work from.I've always been inspired by dance since I love to draw the human body and I like to dance too. I often use my own image to draw from when I have no model ( which is most of the time!) but to get unposed motion, nothing beats a photo of dance. I've tried to draw dancers as they dance but I can capture their poses! Its too hard! So these images are a start...I may have to keep looking.

My new special in my etsy shop!

2009-06-22T15:05:00.000-07:00

I love my pendants but now I want more of them to find homes...so I'm doing a buy one get one free deal until they move. Here are pics of my lovely pendants!

Netamir's wonderful store...check it out!

2009-06-21T17:43:00.000-07:00

Its the awesometastic interview with MarmaladeNina!!

2009-06-21T15:22:00.000-07:00

1. How long have you been selling on etsy?
April 11 2009, so I am fairly new to ETSY..and I am hooked all ready. I was recomended by a friend to take a look,I decided all though I had not heard much about it here in England Id take a chance by trying my hand to becoming a seller.

2. Do you have advice for etsy newbies?
Well Im a Newbie myself but I guess that nothing ventured nothing gained! Keep adding new stuff when you can to keep your listings busy and use the showcase and look at hints from the other sellers on how to become a respected Etsy shop.

3. What are 3 fave etsy stores and why?
Fave stores where can I start? There is so much fantastic talent but in my short time there is a few of many that has caught my attention and I feel drawn to taking pleasure at their brilliant creations.
SCRUMDIDLYUMP.
Well I smile at the humour and fun that comes from this fantastic artist, I feel that her work oozes personality and I like that. I guess that her ideas are straight from the heart.. I can visualise her creating them which I think is important to a buyer as to love handmade is to love the creativity that is within the object.I particularly like the awkwardness of some of the designs such as the cake stand and it is much better to see something that is not defined as a perfect and symetrical shape..so simply fantastic shes a great artist.
TIENNE REI FINE ART.
Beautiful artist! Fantastic use of colour.. I am drawn to the vivid pieces of art work that she paints..her female subjects are beautiful and the busy design is just wonderful..what can I say except Beautiful take a look.
BLACK EYED SUZIE.
This artist has been featured allready and compliments are perhaps allready flowing..but my own personal love of her work is brimming with admiration. Allthough I am not a collector of dolls, if I were to be.. these are the ones that I would love to own.The Victorian look of the dolls and the gothic pale skin and the large sad eyes are just the kind of design that draws one in. I have seen other dolls on here but allthough there are some fantastic artists creating them.. for me Black eyed Suzie's are the cream on my tea!

4.What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?
Wow..me??? My fave that is there at the moment without a doubt has to be my Turquoise blue and greens..large mermaid bowl listing-23546922. Why? well I just love it and was very reluctant to sell it..it is here at home on my big table awaiting a home and I suppose I shan't be too sad if it remains. I just love the glazes and the pictures do not do the colours justice..the bowl is stunning and is a fantastic centre piece.
My second fave is the large green blue wavy edged mermaid bowl listing-23546922. Why? Because it is vivid and yet again the pics do not do it true justice. The bowl is like a functional painting in my eyes and the textures are plentiful.
My third is a close second the large green and gold mermaid bowl..listing 23554239. This is a very interesting piece and is carved underneath as well as inside. I love to look at the busy design and all my bowls are to me a canvas to create a scene inspired by the ocean.

5. What plans do you have for your shop?
My plans are brimming!!I am new but I feel ambitious and am working on new designs at the moment and I am very excited at the moment I can display them. A lot of my work that is on ETSY at present is my older stuff and I feel that my sculpture has since been developed incredibly..so watch this space. I would like to say though that sometimes things are a little slow moving as I have to drive 28 miles to take my work to be fired..phew..so hence I am prowling for my own electric kiln apart from the Raku kiln that I own.

6. How long have you been creating art?
Art to me was something I was creating from an early age in the simplest way unknowingly.
For example Mudpies in mums garden..cutting out faces with a pair of scissors and card in maths class at school..and building a wooden fort in my son reece's room when he wasn't looking.

7.Who are your art heroes?
My art heroes are Ron Murek,Gustav Klimt and anyone else that tries their hand at creativity.

8.Where do your ideas come from?
My ideas come from childhood dreams and stories..things that I see for example a vision I cannot explain it is just there in my mind and my hands draw it..I am captivated by rich colours and my imagination runs wild..

9.What do you do when you have a creative block?
If I have creative block I try to escape the things that may be causing it..I try to see the funny side of dilemmas and so I meet up with a friend and just laugh about life and its woes and then I feel good and am ready to go again. Or wash my hands have a cup of tea and a break and start again!

10.What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
Other interests that feed into my art..are perhaps just use of colour and surface decoration, I am a very decorative person..and it finds its way into everything..I also love mythology.. maybe there is an element of that..and I have an interest in bizzarre items I think that creeps through most definately...
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check out this giveaway!

2009-06-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

CantaloupeCorner is giving away this beautiful "Cherry Blossom" shirt in your choice of color: Red (as shown), Pink, or Black. (comes in XS, S, M, L and XL)It's way cool and I have entered cause who doesn't like a giveaway! She also sells super cool t-shirts for kids and adults!

New Interview with etsy artist netamir!

2009-06-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

Here is another interview with a wonderful artist who has some creative, unique pieces in her etsy shop. I have never seen cloth used in this way and I knew other creative people would be inspired by her work.

1) How long have you been selling on etsy?

I began on Dec 2005; it was short while after I quilted a work as a fashion designer in a commercial company.

2) Do you have advice for etsy newbies?

Patience! This is the most important one.
Good photos would do a lot for your promoting. Enjoy what you are doing; you wouldn't get rich out of it so you must at least, have fun.
Flickr, twitter and blogging are helpful tools.
Luck, is sometimes necessary too.

3) What are 3 fave etsy stores and why?
Holli,
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=64858
Beautiful dolls and illustrations by Argentine artist Paola Zakimi. I love her funny and sad characters, I like the way she combines humor with melancholy at her work.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5085167
kjoo,
Crochet and Felt accessories by the Portuguese artist Maria Joao Ribeiro. I like to see designs that doesn't look like anything I have saw before, and Maria's are exactly that, they are original and innovative, well crafted and beautify designed.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5219973&ga_search_query=yoko&ga_search_type=seller_usernames
Yoko,
She is amazing, she makes me smile every time I see anything by her and she makes it in such a whimsical and sophisticated way.
Take a look at the title of her store.

4) What are your fave pieces in your shop and why?
It's a difficult question to answer as to a mother who should answer which child she prefers.
But If I must I would say that the "let's cloth it" collection is my favorite as it came out of my art installation "scraps".

5) What plans do you have for your shop?
I just split my store into two, now I am selling my dolls at my second store:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7252436
I want to populate this store, the dolls there are getting bored, and they need more attention and company now.
Afterwards I have some ideas for more shoes and "let's cloth it" designs.

6) How long have you been creating art?
Since I can remember my self, as a little girl I was painting all the time, later on I was also crocheting and sewing with my mother and grandmother. I always attended after school art classes and at the age of 15 I moved to art high school.

7) Who are your art heroes?
Elsa Schiaparelli in fashion

Louise Bourgeois and Annette Messager in fine art.

And
Rosa Pomar, Camilla Engman, Sandra Monat, and many more artists I met through the web.

8) Where do your ideas come from?
It is difficult to say, it is a combination of sources, sometimes it is people on the street and sometimes it is materials I use.
The creation itself is also great source of inspiration for me as well as the unique communication I have with people through the web.
The story about my shoes making can illustrate it best:
At the beginning I had only dolls at my store, I really liked to design unique garments and accessories for them, then a customer who envy their unique style asked me if it is possible for me to scale up my dolls slippers for her feet.
I was working three weeks to find the best materials and developed the scaled up pattern, this is how I began with the slippers. Shortly afterwards a customer who likes the slippers wished to go out with them, this is how I began with the shoes making…

9) What do you do when you have a creative block?
Take a nap.

10) What other interests do you have that feed into your art?
I love Movies, music, reading and just wandering around.