Stephanie Brockway

The Interest in Pinterest !!

2012-02-21T21:02:00.003-08:00

For so long I've been a Decorating Magazine addict,
tearing out the pages and taping them in files, my wish lists...

That is so old school. I signed up for Pinterest

when they first started, then never "pinned", finally I started browsing, and WOW the photos of art ,food, clothes, you name it, just blow me away

So...goodbye torn magazine files, and outrageous magazine bills...... I do hope the magazines are here to stay, after all a lot of the photos originate from them, so I hope the credits they get, are enough...

The above books is two of seven I made for Valentines day for friends...

I carved the outlines of the hearts and tree after I painted them.
They'll be pinned in my art page

I'll be pinning this collection of old metal Foosball players,
I saw at a local antique store

And This Mermaid I carved will be pinned under my woodcarving page
CLICK on the Pinterest button on the right side of this page
to see my progress thus far. Join and let me know so I can see what you love!
Cheers

The Art of Communication : 100 Artist Show

2012-02-04T12:18:00.000-08:00

Can I trust myself to be profound?

To say something great, possibly

even inspire? I can only be myself.

An ever changing being, confident,

brash, passive and meek……

slowly unraveling like a ball of

twine. until there are only two ends,

one in your hand the other in mine,

connected by circumstance.

The space between us winding tight

as we discover what the other has

to behold.

by Stephanie Brockway
Each color coded word are poems within the poem, Read yellow, then red, etc.....

The view inside Mary Lou Zeek Gallery this month, has something for everyone. The Art of Communication, paired up 100 artists of all mediums, from around the country, with the prompt of a letter, poem word or other. Art was made. The results are spectacular.

Here are some pieces that caught my eye....paintings...

Color, I love a landscape of unexpected colors

The vintage wood and lettering make this a standout

This Doll is holding a suitcase with a replica of herself inside, judging from the bidding on this piece many people wanted her as much as I did!

This pottery piece is another standout, I need to go back and read the letter that inspired it

The three little pigs? Fun and Colorful

Lisa Kaser's painted wood piece, I love the branch coming out of the base

The details on this black and white stunner, looks to be a masterpiece in pen and ink

Elizabeth Franks is one of my wood carving hero's

Here is my artist, Thomas Rude's piece, I love his statement
( a response to the above poem I wrote him):

Entwined

They say if you have enough twine you can have a ball. I didn’t have that much, but I still got wound up, or perhaps strung along, by Stephanie’s entwining lines of words, tying together some loose ends, and maybe some lost friends.

My piece of art is on the upper Right side CLICK HERE to see a bigger shot
or to Bid.
His letter to me was about him moving north some years ago, that felt like his destiny, with a song in his head...those lyrics , I painted on the panel, the "man"I cut & carved out. The boat I cut from an old fishing float.

Opening Night....Tory and Dayna also have amazing work in the show, Click their names to read about their work. The Portland Art Collective has a story HERE.
And Finally Mary Lou Zeek's Blog HERE, about the hanging of the show and opening night fun.

BIDDING STARTS NOW: YOU CAN BID ONLINE CONTACT THE GALLERY

Stars and Stripes...and catching up

2012-01-19T23:45:00.000-08:00

Well 2012 is off and running,,, I've been so busy on projects, so the blogging has suffered just a bit. Above is a series of hearts I just turned in for the Heart show @ Guardino Gallery

These black and white stripped ones are my favorite. Heavily carved all the way around, painted, distressed sanded with a wax coating

Like all art, it all looks better in person, hope you can see the show!!

At a New Years, Artist Date beach retreat with Dayna and Tory. One of the projects we worked on, was our word for the year on a vision board. I settled on my word "Purpose" ( the above pictured piece was gifted to me by Dayna, thank you), I have a few specific goals and decided to be more mindful and make sure the things i do have one! (a purpose that is)
I shamelessly ripped off photos from Dayna who did a splendid blog post about the fun week she invited me too, you can see it HERE !

We got to visit the wonderful Pat Wheeler who was doing a residency At Sidka

A seal carcass caught my attention

Pat's art always captivates me, shes one of my favorite instructors

I Leave you with a picture of me carving....I have another piece in a show At Mary Lou Zeek Gallery coming up in Feb. Next post will be about that.. it is amazing how Mary Lou got all of the artists to communicate and make art, using our letters as prompts.
PEACE

The Christmas Branch,.......with some holiday sprinkles

2011-12-19T11:39:00.000-08:00

I like to decorate minimally around the holidays

A few stars here and there

This year instead of a tree cluttering up the floor. I hung a branch from the ceiling.

With just a few silver birds leaves and tinsel

Here's another view, I have more branches and rose hips collected on walks for a fresh look

Moving on.......

A pretty chandelier seen @ the nines...

We dress up very infrequently, but a work function was on our list

Where it was explained what my dh does.... finally after 32 years :o)

My sister Margo and my niece Roma came for a visit this week.

A little spread I put out for more company this weekend.

Roma showing us proper whipped cream etiquette.

We got together for a fierce craft night, using driftwood we collected

Naturally, we produced masterpieces.

Girls night with my sisters, our daughters and my mom.

Downtown Christmas trees, sparkling by night

Maggie's famous Red Chandelier, sparkling by day.

My carved wood hearts wishing you a special holiday. As we lose special people in our lives it's sweet to remember & treasure what we do have.

All good blog posts should end with a special dessert.

This beauty was served @ a PAC function

Finally the view @ the Nines looking down the marble staircase .
Long glass ornaments were lit up. Very Nice..... if your not scared of heights.
You can see more holiday decorating HERE @ PAC Blog

PUPPETS, She "SAID" & Meet Simone

2011-12-09T22:53:00.000-08:00

Nestled in Multnomah Village, is a little neighborhood in SW Portland, a jewel of a design shop called SAID click HERE

It's the perfect place to stage a PUPPET Show, Up for the month of December. Stop in to play! Simone is the newest member of the cast, she stands 13 inches tall, her legs dangle when she dances. She is Carved from old wood parts her body is an old ornate table leg.

Let's take a tour! The shop feels like you've stepped into the pages of a design magazine. A mix of modern, industrial, chandeliers .......ever changing.
B-I-G swoon!

I could move right in.

Did someone say turtle shell?, & that industrial light is calling my name.

The pink ornate couch paired with the taxidermy deer and graphic wall paper, are beyond divine, I want to re decorate every time I step in.

The PUPPETS are very happy to be here, and are so appreciative,
they even get the front window

"The Ringmaster" is poised in the theater

"Zippy" hangs in the showroom

But first had to try out the decadent vintage chair,
updated in hot pink and blue velvet

Mr. Sparkles is on a New pedestal and peers out the front Window,
waiting to welcome you!
7501 SW Capitol Hwy. Check for hours
ps. This is the last public showing of the public theater, it is priced to sell. As are the heirloom quality one of a kind puppets! Contact SAID for details

Art Shows Glistening and Bright!

2011-12-05T11:14:00.000-08:00

Mr. Lucky one of my new Fellas ,wanted to say "Hi" and thank you
for checking in.
What a busy month we've had!

The PAC sale, at Multnomah Art Center was a rousing success.
Seeing friends old and new. Sharing my art and even selling a few pieces. I myself, got quite a few new treasures!

These are the beginnings of some new flaming hearts that had stars cut out. A sketch was done before I cut out around the shapes. They all sold out as did the birds!, but you still might be able to find one at
Mary Lou Zeek Gallery HERE

The finished hearts spread out waiting to be inventoried.

Dayna got a nice photo of my booth!

And here's the tree that greets visitors each year as they come in, full of ornaments, all made by various members.

Some of my new characters in the carving phase, yes these are fishing floats!

And then finished, as puppets, dolls, sculpture or otherwise!

"Zippy" to the left is at said, a sweet little jewel of interior design and retail shop in Portland, an exciting development for sure, that I'll share this week! Also "Jumping Jack" has found a new home @ Guardino Gallery, until someone brings him home with them!

Finally a shot of my tree, full of little wood houses. All hand cut & painted with windows and doors. After many sandings and coats of waxes, they hang together to form a little village....you can find some of them HERE @ Guardino Gallery.

Stay tuned for the details, on the exciting
Circus Puppet Theater News,
Right Here, This week!

It's not Graffiti

2011-11-12T11:28:00.000-08:00

Took a little break and headed to Astoria. Lots of history, antiquing and eating.

Our hotel The Cannery, was located on a pier in the Columbia river. Our faithful Garmin seemed totally unconcerned that we were under water, announcing proudly that we had arrived at our destination!

Beach combing is a must for me, if I get anywhere near the water, I search for treasure.

Faded paint and metal ,( just lost a photo of more painted wood, I was going to share), but I'm not starting my post over!

Pieces of boats, way to big to haul home, darn

Didn't see any of these, it's way to cold to swim, so we were safe!

Back at home, this week has been a blur of activities. But love running into friends wearing stripped socks.

Sharing drinking chocolate At Almas in Portland warms your soul.

And now, today. It's back to work, it's not graffiti...... but sketched out Corazon's or flaming hearts. Each one is different, hand drawn & cut, then sanded, carved, painted, stamped, burnt and waxed.

Upcoming shows, on Dec 2 and 3rd HERE and HERE

And finally this old metal stencil seen at a museum, the cast shadow on the wall. Intriguing.

Still Enchanted

2011-11-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

This special guy consists of a paper mask I purchased at Cannibals gallery, over a glass dome ...I think I want to keep him up for awhile, he enchants me.

The Altar called "Oaxaca" has been a magnet for visitors, to leave messages, with papers and pins provided, also left are, special mementos & remembrances. There's a very nice story on OPB's blog by KC Cowan CLICK HERE to read.

The outdoor Altar glowed on opening night with candles and offerings.

The Art made for this occasion is very diverse from playful to serious. But all, are pieces you would want to enjoy all year long....

This piece, by Tabor Porter mixes his jewelry and wood carving skills, the niche and graffiti make it a show stopper.

Opening night was made special by the musical talents of Rachael Rice and Belinda Underwood. In costume with the most amazing harmonies

Artist Javier Cervantes who's ceramic piece, shown above ,has an amazing script I could look at for days, he came baring the wonderful marigolds, that are the tradition.

Dayna did a fine job of getting photos on her BLOG . Click to see!

And finally a photo of me, in makeup done by my daughter, lots of people came in costume. I think Portland did a fine job of claiming the Day of the Dead tradition as their own. You can see it all, until Nov 20th HERE

"Unfinished Business" an Art Collaboration with the Departed, for Day of the Dead

2011-10-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

The right opportunity fell into my lap at just the right time. I was offered some wood pieces by a generous facebook friend (thanks Gary), that were partially carved by a departed woodcarving couple. Since I was again curating for Day of the Dead @ Guardino Gallery, "Unfinished Business" seemed a natural.....The above piece started with this little head square head wearing a hat....

His beard was cut down, eyes gouged out , face painted & his head reshaped, with my knives

I built a little boat for him, from old wood, with wheels that roll.

I cut and shaped the body, his limbs all move, and he can sit independently. He measures 12 inches long and is holding a cross.

Then from these three pieces , I chose the middle piece to work with. It was a post with a face in the middle. I cut the top head off and rounded all the edges.

I sketched out a spiky top

Cut them out. Then envisioned a swirly pattern all the way around .

Here's the sketch , that was then cut and shaped.

The shaping here, in progress.

The stain really makes the swirls, show up .

A little paint on the face really made his features pop out. I hope I did it justice. I call him "Totem of the trees" and he measures 15"

Altars are a big part of the Day of the Dead celebration. This one is @ Cargo in NW pdx. (link button is not cooperating)

I built one for the gallery adding vintage trims and putting a bight coat of paint.

It measures 44'x 17. The velvet inside had foam core to pin on messages of photos, inside is the floating heart in a frame called "Forever"

Then the cross, I built from salvaged wood , it has flickering bulbs , it measures 31x 21 it's called "Follow the Light" All work is for sale.

Finally...... here is a small sampling of work I have the honor to hang in the gallery tomorrow. So exciting to take the gallery from blank walls to cohesive show! Tune in for the transformation.

Goodbye Summer, Hello Art Shows

2011-10-15T22:33:00.000-07:00

Summer ended too suddenly in the Northwest, one weekend its 90, and then rain......

rain for days.

So before the forced hibernation, I got to the garden to pick the last of the tomatoes & peppers.

Cut up, then put on a pan with onions , garlic, olive oil S&P. Roasted for 1/2 hour....

Then pureed in a broth. I loosely followed Tyler Florence's recipe

but omitted the cream, substituted vegi broth, but added a dollop of cream on top, of each bowl.

The bird bath color with the moss, made a pretty palette today.

Harvesting the hydrangeas, I dry out then put in vases. It's further proof that summer has come to a close.

So every dry weekend , if even for a few hours, we get out to breathe in the fresh air, on this day, yard debris piles burning perfumed the air.

A chain around a tree caught my attention, must be careful of potential tree thief's, but probably left over from a long gone bike, the roots are stunning.

And finally.....A most interesting project, landed in my lap at just the right time. A generous facebook friend ( thanks Gary) offered me some wood pieces carved some departed woodcarvers. I'm calling this series "Unfinished Business" I finish and reimagine the work. From this head above which was a square block....

I rounded out his head, carved down his beard, gouged his eyes , then built him a folk art body, added a boat with wheels....he is getting some simple outfit and a sail for his boat before the show

There are 3 more pieces that are nearing completion, stay tuned.

Here's one of the other projects...this is one of the altars built and painted brightly in Oaxaca colors, on all sides, this will be one of the Community altars up all month, pieces of paper, pins and pens are available to leave a thought , comment or remembrance, gone but not forgotten, for this very special show. Next post on Monday will be about some more of art offerings, from the other artists. And what is need to set up an Altar, one will be glowing outside for the opening!

Secret Rocks Found & Lost on the Oregon Coast

2011-09-24T21:43:00.000-07:00

Newport Bay 9 . 21.11

The magical secret round rocks were found this past weekend! Being a lifelong hunter and gatherer, the lure of finding these perfectly round beauties was a highlight....

At a art workshop earlier this year, another artist brought in these special rocks as a possible addition to her art project, I was so captivated, she sweetly gave me one, told me that they were traded by the local Indians and finally told me vaguely where the ONLY place to find these were ....
Some of them are big enough to fit in my palm and some small like marbles.
Finding just the right bowls to display them, will be a happy project, I always pick up loose twine on the beach so sea life won't get tangled. I also got a seal bone, I however, was not allowed to bring home the beautiful bone flipper with bits of fur...something about the smell
The adventure begins, my sister Margo leads the way on a rare hot Oregon coast day.

The cliffs had lots of interesting colors, lots little rock slides, then some bigger ones kept happening. We had to keep our heads up.

My sweet mother Roma carrying a bag of drift wood, we were going to make sculptures....

Too hot for shoes!

And me, considering the merits of certain twigs

I loved how the seaweed embraced the rock and clinging to it for dear life

This seabird, at rest, so much beauty even in death.

Sweet little beach balls, thanks to mother nature.

After a day of crabbing, my sister Amy made us a 10pm Dungeness Crab feed, even though she doesn't eat it!

Wet and dry sand, an artistic achievement

Misty silhouettes & A sweet weekend adventure

My Show's @ Flutter untill Sept 13th

2011-09-01T22:10:00.000-07:00

Its been a great opportunity for me to have a Encore show @ Flutter .

I decorated their front window with a Circus Theme! You can see their blog post about it HERE.

Here are two new pieces I created for the show.
This is Zippy, he measures 38 inches long, you can read about how I made him HERE

Zippy is posing with Mr. Sparkles, they are ready for their closeup . You can see them in the window until Sept. 13Th.
Flutter is located at 3948 N. Mississippi Ave, Portland

Here I am hanging the window, such a fun vintage-y space, all my puppets and red striped tenting was a great fit.

See you soon!

Climbing the Sleeping Giant in Montana and never trust a Cowboy!

2011-08-28T21:08:00.001-07:00

When you visit or drive through Helena Montana, as we do every year, the mountain range to the east is called the Sleeping Giant. This year we had the opportunity to get on to private family ranch land and hike up to his nose! Their are several family ranches next to each other, this one was built in 1900

Fannie Sperry Steel a famous woman bucking horse rider lived here, on my husbands families old Hilger's ranch

After passing through many gates, we find the final gate to get to our destination. We note a skeleton on the gate and wonder what it could be?
( a llama )

Enter cowboy Wes, he owns some of the land and informs us of the way there, or where that pesky trail could be.

Yup, its up there. He discovered an "easy" way up many many years ago after a night of drinking! So easy, and yet.......

First step, we jump a fence, we couldn't risk a spark from out truck starting a fire and burning down another homestead built in 1908 after a big flood, a women homesteaded with 7 kids, I applaud her, it is many miles from town, they lived hard lives.

My son and daughter ready to find the trail, not knowing what lay ahead

Nicole paused and his face looks deceptively close

A skull tied to a tree with barbwire on the way.

Signs on the way, we didn't see any horses, but wild life is definitely around.

The climb up, and up and up. Our truck is just behind the black willows brought from Minnesota in 1860. It still amazes me to have direct descendants who know the history of the land. The trail was hard to find and very steep, shale rock. We soon realize that the "easy" hike was definitely done by horseback, and us pedestrians were feeling a little under prepared, pant pant.

( Hence, cowboys being so rugged are not always the best judges of distance or trail difficulty, but otherwise CAN be trusted! )

Uncle Gary enjoying the view of the Missouri river ( he'd rather be fishing for Walleye), that part is called the Gates to the Mountains, named by Lewis and Clark

My son Jason striking a triumphant pose at the top. There was an old bell at the top. A jar used to be there with a pen and paper to sign dating from the 1920's many names signed, it is now safely ensconced for a future family museum.

Nicole second guessing her decision to pose on a ledge for a photo op. Something about the big steep cliff under her!

Nicole and Uncle Gary showing how the hike turned into rock climbing.

Me on the way down, which was slow going

And finally my view of Dave who led the way, A great trip, short and sweet this year. I got a few more shots to share. He headed out the next morning on his motorcycle to Sturgiss and we headed home. Can't believe summer is fading, I'm still hanging on tight.

Lots of projects and deadlines heading into Fall!

A Tale of two Globes & the Seattle Weekend Report...... or the one that got away

2011-08-22T23:27:00.000-07:00

It started Thursday with a trip to Plucky Maidens @ Edgefiled with friends, so much good stuff.

Right off the bat. I spot a huge 24 inch Globe, it was metal on a very sturdy stainless steel stand and spun both vertically and horizontally, I was smitten but was cautious with the 78$ price tag, no discount...hmmm I decided to wait, if it was still there later I would get it, well it was gone. The gal selling said a guy snapped it up and mentioned they were rare had seen one priced much higher elsewhere.....
So much too see , and with full hands, I didn't get good shots of my shopping partners.
On to the next morning

We headed to Seattle for a 48 hour shopping and eating trip, and since Anthony Bourdain said Salumi is a place to eat before you die we didn't argue. There is always a long line and with very limited hours & closed on the weekend, it was our 1st stop . We were not disappointed...

Love the address & the mix of wood brick and metal.

For dinner, we were progressive and dined at The Palace and Dahlia's, with a night cap at the Hotel Monaco where we stayed. All was good, but I agree with anyone whose has had them, the hot sugar donuts with vanilla marscapone and apricot dipping sauce are a highlight....

On to pike place for breakfast, this mosaic mural caught my eye......

But I just hope this guy is not shaking the baby, or possibly the baby smells? and their in a hurry. Funny and odd, right up my alley

Nicole got the required flower bouquet, so many to choose from

This bee on the sunflower assured us of freshness

worthy of mention a slice of geoduck with melon from Dahlia

Back to Pike place, we again waited in a line, this time for the famous perogies, ours was stuffed with potato, mushroom and onion. we tried some cheeses at Beechers and had a hot donut, then to full to eat, had to pass on a recommended pastry place....next time. Decided we were to tired to find Tilth for a late brunch instead went back to shopping

Day two: Ballard was our favorite area, having hit up Freemont and downtown the day before.

So much goodness, this little guy caught my eye

Spotted on the streets, a "City Witch" herbal ailments, it's good to know

Always captivated by the decor, Pink ceilings and paper pompoms

This store really captivated me "Curtis Steiner" antiques , but so much more, everything displayed so well, jewelry over vintage book pages, with a few fossils and coral mixed in.

Just a few modern pieces in the mix

A taxidermy owl watches over the proceedings, of old Milagros, select furniture & Santos

And then in the window, a special GLOBE, only $1200. identical to the one I had seen Thursday for $78 ( cue the tears), Alas the one that got away!!

We did manage a strawberry cupcake at Royale. And could not find the elusive Walrus and Carpenter restaurant, we'll find you next time, the Garmin be dammed. Got home late Sat

In time for a early Sunday ride with friends, to Detroit lake, the hottest day of the year.

I need a nap!

Meet Juggling Girl, a wood sculpture how to

2011-08-14T22:43:00.000-07:00

Just finished her yesterday, and delivered her to Guardino Gallery. She stands 22 inches tall and is carved from a solid piece of wood. She decided to wear a blue dress with yellow polka dots, and red boots are always in style

First she was sketched out

Then she was chiseled and chiseled to find just the right shape.

This process takes a lot of time . But it's worth the effort, finally seeing an image emerge from the wood.

Juggling girl didn't want me to mention, but she is wearing red underwear.
That matched her shoes.

I attached her arms separately so they would be movable, she raises her arms up

And then down, she's pretty good at juggling.

I'm still deciding if there will be more of the "girl" series. "Pet Bee Girl", "Bravo Girl" and "Heart in a Cage Girl" have all gone home with private collectors. I'm considerding other subjects....

Also keeping her company is Socrates, he measures 29 inches, his face is carved from a old tool, and his body is fashioned from found objects.

He insisted on wearing his hat for the photo

I held him up to take a bow, I still may string him like a puppet so he could either hang from a hook, but for now he sits. I wasn't quite ready to part with him. So on to some more carvings......

How to make a Puppet !

2011-08-06T17:17:00.000-07:00

Zippy is a 38 inch marionette, you can kind of make out the eye hook on his top hat, tied to another eye hook on a stick and then again on at his shoulder.......

Here's a closeup of the two new guys I talked about, in the last post , "Zippy" and "Mr. Sparkles"respectively
Zippy can also sit independently. The sticks he can hang from are at his side.

Mr. Sparkles isn't a puppet. I mounted his carved head on a old tool box
but since I made them at the same time,
I didn't want him to feel left out

They started as a old wood fishing float and a large finial respectively, I carved them with both knives and a power carver to shape . I have some inspirational photos out.

I then started painting them a off white color. For Zippy's nose I doweled and glued in a old green handle for his nose

I put the bright white on their eyes and teeth, and fill in some red for their lips and features. I dry brush their faces leaving some of the wood expose, don't want them to look to new and loose that vintage/ creepy factor.

I audition various items from my wood scraps, in this case, table legs, baseball bats, drumsticks etc. for limbs, and figure out what will look good, just eyeballing what seems to work, not worrying to much about scale, which I think is more interesting

Having chosen a body and legs, I then carve out a niche for the legs to sit in, that way when bent he can either sit upright by himself or hang.

I keep checking to make sure the legs sit nicely and carve out till they fit in flush when sitting.

I then drill a hole through both his body and arms, a hole the same size as the wire, to thread through. I roll the ends with a pliers to hold in place.

I do the same for the legs. Drill a hole in the legs and body. Here you may notice his hat, a cut table leg, that I will stain to unify the color where the cut was.

He's starting to come together

A close up of threading the wire in the leg.

Here is Mr. Sparkles, I'm working on his accessories.

Mr. sparkles head was then but on a tool box and two staggered wood pieces

I build up the box with old moldings and if you go back to the 2ND photo I added old mirrors and wood cut stars for a little pizazz. These can currently be seen HERE @ Flutter until Sept. 9Th.

......Next up some vacay pics from Montana

Encore Encore ! ! @ Flutter

2011-07-28T23:41:00.001-07:00

Zippy and Mr. Sparkles,

have finally made their debut @ Flutter

(Click here to see more)

The show will be up until Sept. 9Th

One of the most amazing stores on Mississippi St. has an array of decadent treasures. Where a laughing Hyena wearing Tiara's hangs out with his taxidermy friends

....against an amazing turquoise wall, great jewelry, books, clothes and lots of vintage goodness.
It's the perfect place to have an Encore show.
We had a lot of fun setting it up

The performer's always buckle their seat belts, when going to a shows.

We had two windows to fill, but we were up to challenge.

Cindy the lovely proprietress of Flutter and now Eden
had some great ideas

Nicole showing off her tool skills.

Here I am tucked between to chandeliers hanging Zippy, he's a 38 inch long marionette, his head is carved from a old fishing float

Bigmouth is propped against a wall next to the Puppet Theater

Here is another shot of all the over the top decadence .

Today I stepped in to go over some little details, and was met by a lovely lady visiting for Kansas City who fell in love with the show and bought Dolly on the spot, such synchronicity! Thanks Jill. Her card says "Objects d' art, Handworks , Oddities", my kind of girl! Such a treat to meet someone who has the same sensibilities. Next post will be a step by step on how I carved and built the new characters.

How to Hang a Wall of Mirrors..

2011-07-22T23:55:00.000-07:00

Well 1st thing you'll need a assistant to help figure the configuration

We laid them out on the floor to get a good flow of the shapes.

I made paper templates and taped them up on the wall, then I pounded the picture hooks and nails where the wires would be, a couple inches down on each paper or as needed.

I painted them a few at a time, a bright white shade to unify them. The background is a pale grey color, it would look better with more contrast , the background being a little darker. But decide since I'm adding white furniture to just keep the room more monochromatic.

There are still a few more touches to add ...

This one is out of sequence but shows us laying them out .

Moving on, we finally made it out to eat 7/21 at Little Bird. For Nicole's Birthday. We rated it 2 out of 4 stars......

Earlier we went to Fluevog, and fell in love with these little beauties. Yes they went home with Nicole, for a birthday gift!

She's a little shocked to open her front door and see a camera "surprise"

This piece is going to Guardino Gallery, it's the biggest piece of wood I've carved, the chisels have been a revelation, fun to use with the rubber mallet. Her arms will be movable, she'll be juggling or holding a hoop and be the last in the series of "the girls". Pet Bee Girl & Heart in a Cage girl, have been sold to private collectors. She'll join "Bravo Girl" at the Gallery soon.

Oregon Motorcycle Summer

2011-07-06T23:38:00.000-07:00

Finally summer has arrived to the NW , I know a couple of motorcyclists who cannot wait to get out and ride.

L-R Me , Dave Candace and Steve
Wanker's corner Saloon hosts a Wed. night rally. Lots of motorcycles come out to play

So many colors and options, we all kinda shop, ohh and aww

Some are white

Some turquoise, love the chrome

This custom bike had

The coolest wheels, there are spikes around the wheels

Everyone mingles

Bright colors attracts a crowd

All the bikes are like works of art , people customize and accessorize

The chrome hog hood ornament adds a nice touch

I'm falling behind in my blogging efforts. so I'll sneek in Nicole (my daughter) and her beau, from the 4Th

And a fun guy doing a back flip off the top deck of a boat we spent the 4Th on

I'll be catching up with some new carvings of characters for a little show and a decorating project ..."the wall of mirrors" was a one day adventure that has turned into 2 weeks, you'll see, HGTV makes it all seem oh so simple. cheers

"YES"

2011-06-24T21:33:00.000-07:00

Yes , I'm still here, my dreams of a low key summer are slowly materializing

Today got to do a little junking with one of my favorite junking partners

We targeted the Sellwood area in Portland...at one of the antique stores we got an offer to see the upstairs living quarters @ Justin and Burkes... OMG, we stepped off the streets and into the pages of DECOR magazine...my photos don't do it justice.... I learned a lot however,

1) Spotlights on either side of the bed are a must.

2) Silhouettes in glass domes are quite striking.

3) One cannot never have to many mounted heads on a wall

4) Dripped wax down mirrors, drop cloths and yummy chandeliers, and big shells, make the end of any hallway the place to be.

5) Over sized fresh flowers and moose antlers make for a dramatic dining table center piece

Here she is, a moving target. Do you see the fresh flower petals on the floor! Get to Dayna's blog and see some better photos....my old camera is having issues & still haven't figured out the new one, soon though

Finally this little display at....(where else) Anthropology, sigh, distressed walls, large paper flowers and vintage bike....Yes it is summer. Tomorrow I'll get my motorcycle ride photos up...

a CARGO full of Decorating Fun

2011-06-12T13:52:00.000-07:00

Whenever I have a few extra minutes downtown, I like to pop into Cargo. A mix of imports antiques and art, I always come away visually stimulated and full of new ideas.

There were neat, old grocery stamps....

A very large flaming heart hanging high overhead caught my eye

Love the color of these chests, all in a row, I think I may need one in every color. I'm really starting to have an affair with the color orange, after many years of being indifferent .

These glass ornament's hung from a branch and had a various feather inside.

A bowl of faux mossy rocks, where could I put these?

I tried in a necklace, then decided I would need a new outfit as well!

Then it was on to.........

Crate and Barrel, not usually a big fan, of big box stores. But their displays of late are really captivating me.

This piece just screams read a book on me, and yes it is comfortable, the white pieces against the dark wood, well.... big sigh

Love the modern table , the blue wall with pops of orange just really work. Think those mossy rocks might work here, either in a bowl or square glass vase !

So bright and fun.

Those round mirrors really accentuate well

Never get tired of pretty things in neat little row.

Well didn't get he shot of "My" Dylan chair, a high back grey leather beauty, another customer had the nerve to sit in it and linger,lol, so onto the next display it was....

The Finish Line: Class Concludes

2011-06-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

Well this is about art, but the food was pretty fine. Today the Hands On cafe featured brunch, this was the risotto cakes with poached eggs, a salmon fillet w/ shallots, arugula, pine nuts and dried cherries, covered in a white wine tarragon sauce, I suffered with a brie, pear, arugula omelet w/leek sauce, alas it wasn't as pretty as my table mates choice. On to class!

I was greeted to A LOT of pieces that needed finishing, I let my energy go into two panels out of our 6 panels.

Here I am applying the cold wax, the final process, allegedly. After I hung it, saw a section that need a little tweak. Affirming to myself that a piece never really has to be done, does it?

As we wrapped up around 2pm, we started the critique process. Two people took turns, telling the artist and group what was working and give feedback and/ or suggestions, it can be a valuable tool to hear how other artists are perceiving your work.

Here is Lisa in action, getting a closer look at Courtney's work.

Meet the class. So here in no particular order :

Ann: she was quite prolific and had a very subdued palette that was both calming and exciting. She did many pieces but chose these two for the final show, the balance of white was refreshing.

Georgia: who made good use of her time, she was right next to me and stayed busy. Her choices, bright and lively great use of color, like her. Thanks for sharing!

Tangie: her pieces combined an amazing sculptural aspect, restrained in color, very earthy. The niche in her canvas ( which I wish I got a close up of) had a old wood box , a piece of weathered drift wood that came out of the top , inside are small perfectly round stones she had collected (and was so thrilled to be both gifted with one and find out the secret location to gather them), I am thrilled! They are treasures. Thank You.

A.J. : She is a student, who we found out today, might of rather taken the summer off. But instead pushed through and amazed us with a carved piece on the left the layers of bright floral layers was a real stand out . On the right, her niche had a small found skull tied in front of some collaged maps , very weathered vibe, think she found her "niche" *grin

Me: Well hate the photo, just a little tired this week. But will say I gave myself permission to, experiment and not finish. I tended to want to see what other people were up to, I like the energy. But I buckle down waxed 2 pieces, and even feel them almost done. I would hang these on my wall.

Courtney: She went in a neat direction applying bits of fabrics in a female form with strong marks. On her niche piece she made a nest of fabrics and female sculpture sitting inside. Very distinct style.

Lisa: (Disclaimer, sorry I didn't get a smiling shot, please refer to yesterday where I did!) She was a power house, I loved her compositions , colors & techniques, plus she had the best assemblage! she was right next to me, and just kept hitting home runs ( no pressure, really!). Her piece here, the crow was an early standout color composition & shading , the box has a old star chart a little branch a hanging small rusty cage with a bird....yeah, wow. Her tree piece to the right has a more subtle color palette, seemed modern and interesting with the transfer of the tree and the rest painted on around it

Kristen: She had a real fresh approach, a former science and math major, she brought in a mix of numbers and formula's , also circuit boards in the niche piece. The strong graphic piece on the right was standout, she was a joy to see across the room always smiling.

Deborah: She chose one piece for her showing, her "breath" piece from yesterday, now has a strong crow on the right, great color and balance, the red niche has a silk tissue paper transfer of a women's face inside and one of those special round stones, very mysterious.

Guess these pics are out of order, but here is a close up of Lisa's crow.

Linnea: was one of our lovely T.A.'s . she worked quietly but powerfully, on her vision, she didn't just let things happen she clearly had a plan!. Her final piece on the left had a bee hive pattern carved in deeper in places and owl people of her design expertly carved out, very symbolic. (a close up of the nest is coming)....her piece on the right had a bee drawn into the plaster a fabric piece that came down into the niche, a clever specimen inside. The line work and colors were calm and well chosen.

Here is that close up of the eggs, nest and bee hive, we were captivated and someone said they would like to see the whole series.

The lovely Pat Wheeler worked on 6 pieces for demos, so valuable to see a working artist share her process, perspective and life. Being a big fan of her work, life and vision. I am beyond thrilled that the 2 small pieces in front with the bright blue, came home with me. We traded for one of my recent works from circus puppet theater. No greater currency exists then when two artists appreciate each others skills and exchange a little piece of ourselves,

The final photo is Pat closing out the class with a reading, she pulls tidbits from her many resources, poetry, anthropology books etc. Being in a group of women can be nurturing, even if it is not spoken what we need or expect. I finish my day feeling capable.

Thank You Pat

Day Four: Triumph and Tragedy

2011-06-04T21:56:00.000-07:00

Took some shots this morning of my work in progress, lots has changed from this morning....

This piece is still trying to come together, simplicity on a canvas is at times hard to achieve , i suspect I'm making it more complicated then it needs to be

Here is Tangie, a artist after my heart, her wood sculpture has really captivated me . I am so fascinated with what all the ladies are working on, that I found myself at times today more interested in what they were doing then my own pieces!

It's really shaping up, cannot wait to see the finished product.

My work table by days end ...... sigh, paper towels were piling up on the floor and hardly any space left on the table. the two pieces to the right are my "works in progress"

Here is Ann's work, really captivating.

Pieces start to go on the wall when we feel there done. I'll double check the name of the artist for this piece. Lots of carving into plaster layers of color.. ..wow

Linnea has put her piece up, owl people, a bee hive pattern, the eggs carved out of plaster on the top are amazing. very nice

Hanging a piece on the wall is a little personal victory.

And finally , Deborah, who has taken this class many times like me, reminding us all how important it is to just breath, albeit with a mask on, as the dust is better left out of our lungs.

Almost perfect, sunny day in pdx, out to dinner , a ride on the motorcycle, and a movie.

But my day ended with a bitter sweet note, my dear friend Tory, who has been mentioned many times here, was in a serious car wreck last night, after her opening. Please think healing thoughts for her recovery, she is in ICU,and the world is a better place with her in it. Thank You

..Every Moment Matters

2011-06-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Seen today on the wall @O.C.A.C. Downstairs is the photography
lab , a cool and swanky place to hang.

The room number has a pretty interesting photo, obviously these students know how to have fun.

The angles and line of the new drawing lab are spectacular. Very modern

This is the tile work over a drinking fountain, flat squares just won't do. in this environment.

I am ready to remodel again! almost.

In the hall is another very large photo, and well, the message made me laugh.

Can't trust anyone.

The stairway has some clever graphics .

The light fixture was made by a faculty member . One of a kind wire sculpture, very stunning
Being around all the creativity really does inspire.

L-R . Pat ,Georgia and Lisa

I love the vaulted ceilings, sky lights and wide spaces. Light and bright, all the things a painting studio should be.

Here's lisa creating, her work is very impressive.

Pats table, has 5 works in progress.

And finally spotted outside today as we were wrapping up, someone has a sense of humor. I heard there was a board meeting.... All the trees are wearing them, apparently it's all the rage.

Attempt what is not certain....

2011-06-02T22:32:00.000-07:00

" Process is more important then the outcome. When the outcome drives the process we only go where we've been." Going deep today to discover something of value. "Do search, but in order to find other than what is searched for" ........

My partner in class Dayna , who is making a beautiful mess next to me. And who graciously supplied these photos, as I forgot my camera today.

A little piece of one of my canvases. Not sure yet if the color will stay. A little smeared line of a song lyric crept into my work.

I seem to gravitate right to landscapes because I know I will be successful. This is still so far from done, but I am being reminded to "tolerate chaos" And also being brave enough to live creatively.

Fresh off her world tour, Scarlett insisted on coming to visit and meet Pat.

Today is Sunny and my expectations are high!

O.C.A.C. / Art Goodness

2011-06-01T20:53:00.000-07:00

Pat Wheeler is back to teach her wonderful workshop @ Oregon College of Arts and Crafts, a wonderful curriculum and campus in Portland. She sets the tone, to trust our instincts and to just

" Start where you Are"

The lunches at the Hands on Cafe are a highlight, here's today's lunch, a spinach salad, with homemade soup and bread, no cookie today. It's important to keep our strenght up for.....

The very important work of applying paint on canvases. So inspiring to see the range of colors, all lined up

Many changes in the days ahead, this process is so freeing, adding, subtracting, more layers, sand some back, whatever I'm in the mood for tomorrow. Letting my intuition be the guide.

Here is the lovely Pat . Sharing her process, and showing me the way to mine. Tune in tomorrow for an update and pics from inside the new studio, it is lovely.

Peace and Eden

2011-05-22T13:40:00.001-07:00

On Friday I had the pleasure of visiting Eden on N.W. 11Th in the Pearl,

the new sister store of my favorite shopping haunt, Flutter
Here you can almost make out the owner Cindy, smiling in the mirror.

Love the vibe, kinda a 60's theme, some vintage, bright pops of color. Lots of earthy moss on chandeliers and display cases with succulents

The color on the wall is a neat shade of mauve-y pink,

that pairs well with the rich green velvet curtains in the back.

A cool wall color kinda became her signature after her the bright blue wall at Flutter became such a hit. I smelled some very decadent fragrances on scored some beautiful art paper tied in pretty rolls.

Every store needs a mascot, this peacock makes quite a statement.

and he's for sale, if you promise to take good care of him!

Moving on that day, up the Columbia Gorge to Menucha, for a private retreat for my art group. I decided to focus on nature, being the day of a impending Rapture, I felt a little left behind.

Never disappointed in the beauty of the landscape

It wasn't sunny , but also not rainy, so we call that great weather.

I walked the famous labyrinth

And got a close up view of this intriguing tree,

despite a big gaping hole

Continues to flourish just the same, nice.

When getting this shot by the pond, a large frog jumped in

and scared me more than him. But the message was clear.

Put a Fly on it.....

2011-05-16T21:45:00.000-07:00

Seen last week..on the wall of the new "library pop up store" on NW 23rd in pdx. Of course "fierce" was made popular by Project Runway's Christian Siriano, love him.

More small talk

We ran into this place on NW Overton , last Thursday, you can see more HERE.

IIt's the perfect place to see a real Alien Autopsy! (just play along).

Of course I love their take on the current catch phrase in pdx to "put a bird on it".

Here is the 1st customer to purchase at the library "pop up" store. You can read all about it HERE

I never know what I'm going to buy when I go antiquing. This little perfume bottle caught my eye at Monticello

And a small pillow with a dog print.........

I love to collect old wood letter stamps

But this is my first set that are in the shape of little houses, which I love!

PS: One week left to see a little Circus Puppet Theater Here

Ciao

Only 2 Weeks Left!!!!

2011-05-10T10:51:00.000-07:00

To meet "Weederboy" and say hello. To make the puppets move by moving the levers, they all like to dance!

Here's a view of the gallery wall "Ring My Nose" one of the 2-d circus posters

Another Gallery view , "Bigmouth" is waiting to swallow your ball. To the right is the "half/man- half woman" it spins and has a naughty surprise, like any good sideshow freak would.......

Scarlett looks so cool suspended in the front window, surrounded by black hoops

The puppets are pretty friendly, and so far are behaving themselves *grin* . There's talk of a encore show, with some pieces sold, there are a few more that might join the Circus....

So hurry before May 22nd

In the mean time I am back to decorating again. This dark corner needed something..... I agonized over what kind of bookcase to put in. A built in on the whole wall was a 1st choice, but the IKEA grid was the quicker fix, I may still add on another level , to display all my collectibles. The bottom row is my temporary desk. Next week I'll add a chandelier, chair and work/ art table....

And dreaming of painting large canvases soon @ OCAC, the fabulous Pat Wheeler form N.Y./Maine arrives, a full week of splashing paint will begin!

The story of Turtleman and his Bride

2011-05-03T22:39:00.000-07:00

The story of Turtleman.

I saw this little white shell on a friend's blog. It was found in a desert, bleached out and faded by time. About 6 inches long, I just had to have it, I envisioned a poem etched into it. And a carved character to go along,

A kitchen pestle fit the bill. After I carved his face, I cut notches for his leg. I used drum sticks for his limbs. and found a metal bit for his head. Here's the "tale on his shell" He's got one shoe on and one shoe off, he's got places to go albeit rather slowly:

"I wasn't trying to go fast, but simply arrive, I didn't need to win,,,instead just keep going, one foot in front of another, slow but steady"

From the blurb book i wrote to go along with the show.

His bride awaits a broom indeed.

A spinster she was not to be !

Happily, Turtleman has found a new home. I'll miss him, he was one of the first characters, and a labor of love. You can see him and his bride at Guardino Gallery until May 22nd,

Opening Night !!

2011-04-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

Countless months of work is finally done. Now the jitters, how will people like it? What if no one comes?
Thank You to those brave souls who made it out despite the rain and Blazer traffic. The view above, outside looking in.
The pedestal in the entrance with my completed book, I tried to tell a story about the characters in the show, silly fun. Also I put out a copy of the photo about my show from the The Oregonian A&E.

Always a thrill to see people looking at my art.

Here's Donna the owner of Guardino's. Thanks for having faith in me Donna, and let me take a bold step, to do what I am pretty sure is the first Circus Puppet Theater show, the gallery has ever seen ! If nothing else I'm proud I took a risk.

Here's Greg jiggling the sticks that get the puppets moving, fun!

Here's Jamie and Skye

The lovely Dayna, who's support means so much. I questioned my vision a few times, "did I really think this was a good idea?" and the resounding "yes" kept me going. And a little red dot love goes a long way!

My son Jason came with his beautiful girlfriend Alexis, taking a rare night off from work.

The "circus food" had to be bright colorful and fun.

Here's Cynthia's demonstrating that the circus peanuts I got for props, might actually be good eating! But the homemade caramel popcorn she brought was! I saved bag for breakfast, yum.

L-R: The family. Nicole, Jason , Dave and me. A rare night together

My fellow wood carvers and art friends, who have their own wood carving show coming up in July.

Thanks Maggie, nice to see your friendly face .

Hello Debbie and Lauren, Thank you for the flowers!

Here's Darlene from PAC

Here I am with Gregg Tabor and Tory, another art angel and who's can do spirit was a BIG encouragement to me, girls got technical skills to boot!

A view of the Lovely Scarlett, she is the star of the show, suspended in the front window, her passage in the book reads. " Flying from hoop to hoop with nary a worry for her well being nor safety. As nubile a nymph as the circus has ever seen.

"Listen as the crowd screams"

Gotta have friends.

Here: with Kitty, Tory and Howard ( who is Dayna's sidekick )

My longtime friend Louise came out to play and is always a joy to see.

I took lots of photos, sadly lots of them were beyond editing. Darn

To my PAC sisters Paula and Jill, Robin, Lenall, Lori, Sue, Mary & Gloria. And my carving group who stopped in Puddy, Dick, Ron and Suzanne!

Everyone made a night, that I was a little fearful of, enjoyable. I am grateful.

The shows up all month till May 22nd. Hoping to convert a few people to the wonders and skill of woodcarving

And fyi, my beloved chihuahua, Punky who was at the emergency vet, 3 times this week, (phew) seems to be rallying.

Interactive Puppet Show

2011-04-18T22:51:00.001-07:00

"The Ringmaster cracks his whip bringing the show to life"

Did I tell you that the puppet Theater is interactive? It is 36 x 48. It's built with salvaged wood from rebuilding center, the backdrop is a canvas I painted. I designed two rows of puppets , you move the sticks in the upper right side so they move ,dance and come to life! It took a few trials runs till I came up with just the right movement, it will be for sale.
This is a sign above I cut out, then built up the edges with paper clay to build it up, then hand lettered.
Looking better today that the book will be at the gallery for the opening, please please please, in case anyone from blurb books is reading!

A glimmer of spring

2011-04-17T23:26:00.000-07:00

Uncovered my meyer lemon tree, to see one lone lemon, clinging on for dear life. After the rainy gloomy spring we've had, it seems appropriate. Taking a much needed break from the book edit madness, 18 hours on Fri. 6 on Sat. and a few tearful moments during the week. I'm glad I soldiered on and learned, and did it myself, I almost hired someone for big bucks but it was my story to tell.....maybe for the next one!?

The full shot of the sad tree. I hope it decides pull through, the smell from the blossoms in the summer, is the best

The bright spot in the yard are the red tulips, so bright, it might be time to shed our coats.

Some new art purchased from artfest, looks like the aloof goth girls I used to carve.

Under the dome is my new piece from Mar. I'll retake this shot, so for now this will have to suffice.

ARTFEST 2011

2011-04-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

Just back from 5 days of Art adventures in Port Townsend, if you've been you know! Here's a recap

First a little road trip with friends, for the way up. I could not get Tory and Dayna to stop waving their pom poms, out the windows of cars even, they are quite the enthusiastic girls! (click their names to read more about our adventure)

Here's a car parked at the Fort Worden, girl has a glue gun.

All the buildings at Fort Worden were built in 1899, walking around the campus is like stepping back in time, very peaceful.

The Castle on the hill over looking the ocean....

We had one sunny day, the beach beckoned but duty called.

Dinner with my house mates one night.

Silly Art from the iron chef competition, all the pieces were made in an hour, gotta love the circus theme!

My first day, a little collage, fabric and dye ....

Jesse Reno...what a breath of fresh air, so much more, then about putting paint on a canvas, listening to yourself and going for it....nice

First layer...of many many layers. All mixed with primary colors in our hands

.........more layers

A sheet from some exercises, so much value in letting go

The final piece, I did do a "Jesse style", not so much my authentic style, but fun and lots to consider. My easel and paints are calling me, as soon as the circus show leaves town .

Photo Shoot Learning Curve/ Blurb book

2011-04-03T22:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a peek from today's photo shoot, taken for a blurb book, I'll be offering with my show . Jason Cohoon the photographer in action, around 8 hours into it! It's the big puppet theater I built from salvaged wood, the painted backdrop and the hanging eight puppets, all carved and costumed.

Here's me with Jason, holding the disk, the learning curve has been steep, lots of backdrops and props on the fly. Letting the characters images do most of the speaking, the story line is full of "folly and jest"

I saw lots of this today!

Weederboy's ready for his closeup, Turtleman waiting patiently in the background.

Here's Hammerhead, his body is so unexpected! His head is carved from a big old finial.

Here's Boatman a part of the line up. Hopefully the Slide show of all the characters will be up and running tomorrow. A final edit for the book. Plus show cards picked up and delivered. Oh and pack and leave for Artfest on Wed, read about it here and here yikes

Got past the hanging of the puppets phase, 1st time for everything!

Meet "Scarlett"

2011-03-27T22:38:00.000-07:00

She's quite the Acrobatic, She'll be suspended in the front window of Guardino gallery, when she makes her debut on April 28TH.

She measures 58 inches long! I laid her out today to begin her final costume, her head dress will be a bit more elaborate. Her head is carved from an old wood tool Jennifer gave me. Juggling pins for her thighs, chair legs for arms...

She can do so many poses, and is quite the vixen, I got lucky she props up so well, either arm can be forward or back and her trunk can twist, she almost comes to life .

A close up of her top half...

Her mid section, is an old vise I cut up, I loved all the old nails, you can see the shaped juggling pins here

The old Tops are from Tory,,, well they just screamed boobs, they defy gravity and are "firmly" doweled in place

A close up of the feet I spent 2 entire days deciding how to attach them, I needed lots of movement, so they were flexible, when shes flying. I still may paint her toenails, as any proper showgirl would.

Here she is again, sitting up on her own she's quite talented, and shes insisting a red and white stripped canvas be a backdrop, who am I to argue.

With 22 pieces to introduce, stayed tuned , there will be a lot more posting before the show.

Thanks for looking!

Coming Soon! April 28TH

2011-03-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek of my Showcard!, it's at the printers. Now lots of details to finish. I WILL update my blog with lots of photos in the coming weeks. Trying to finish up all characters. My acrobatic girl, that will hang from the front window of the gallery, she's being a little finicky. The learning curve has been steep, figuring out how the puppets will move with a simple lever, for gallery patrons....Stay tuned. Got my art posse coming over to give me some much needed feedback this week.