Glimmering Prize: Mixed Media Collage and Assemblage by Lorraine Reynolds

NEW SERIES: RURAL ROOTS

2012-01-23T23:33:00.000-05:00

Great Rebellion- Full View

The Great Rebellion- Detail

I am so excited about this new series of work that I started this weekend. I really have my free-cycler and fellow Etsian Lynn Findhold to thank for the barn board that led to these fantastic new pieces. She answered my call out into cyberspace last week, when I was looking for old wood and metal roofing. That's the beauty of FREECYCLE: One woman's trash is another's treasure. So, I went down to Hinesburg on Saturday to fill up the back of my little SAAB with great re-usable art materials. Lynn's chickens were quite excited to see me too.

I have been toying with this idea for quite a while. I have collected some great old rusted tools, locks and kitchen implements and I knew just a little worn, jagged wood would be the perfect foundation for the work. Vermont is full of a tremendous supply of inspiration and materials to make art. I love living here and very happy with the results of incorporating the old wood with paper and local artifacts.

Great Rebellion - Detail

At any rate, I finished these pieces this weekend. My quite mellow, 43rd birthday weekend, to be exact. I am extremely grateful for the gift of un-interrupted studio and treasure hunting time my family gifted me. For the most part, these pieces are a departure for me, outside my safety zone; in size, composition, tone and materials. (And yes, I did not use any Van Dyke Brown whatsoever, go figure.)


Great Rebellion- side view

NH Primary- Full View

NH Primary- Detail

NH Primary - Detail

NH Primary- Detail

NH Primary - Detail

The Great Rebellion- 12"x6"x 4"

New Hampshire Primary 30"x 28"x 3 1/4"

The Waif 7"x4" x 1 1/2".

The Waif- Full View

the Waif- Detail

What stories of a rural past would you create if you had some barn board to play with?

Weft and Warp

2012-01-08T12:00:00.000-05:00

When you weave fabric on a loom, there are two distinct sets of yarns or threads that intersect at right angles to form the fabric or cloth. The longitudinal threads are call the warp and the lateral threads, the one's that fill in are called the weft.

Most cloth that is used to make garments today is made on large industrial weaving machines, but if you ever have the opportunity to watch someone make fabric on a wooden loom you will find that there is something mesmerizing and calming about it. It is almost magical the way the colorful thread come together to create beautiful cloth.

A few years ago, when I was in Hanoi I stumbled upon a master silk weaver's workroom in a forgotten alley. The space he worked in seemed ancient and a mysterious. His deft hands at work on the looms, created not only beautiful cloth, but a rhythmic song as the shuttle moved across the threads and the frames opened and closed. I was reminded today this stunning dance of colors when I sat down to write my weekly blog post.

We are 8 days into the new year and I already have so much on the calendar for 2012. I started to freak out a little on how I am going to keep it all together. Those of you who know me, know that life pours my glass pretty full. This year is no exception. First there is the combination of working full time and pursuing an art career part time. Sometimes the demands of my day job don't end at 5 pm or I find myself working on the other side of the world for weeks on end. Sometimes there are art deadlines that come up so fast that I end up working into the wee hours of the night or waking up before the dawn just to get things in on time. There is a balance, a dance that has to happen between the two parts of my occupational existence. Up until this point, I feel like I have been very successful at achieving a certain harmony there.

The success comes not just from balancing the two aspects of the "working me." It is deeply rooted in the fact that in the fundamental fabric of my life, I am a wife and a mother. My family life is like the warp threads on the loom. They keep me together and are my foundation. The work is the weft threads, the fillers that add color and texture to my life. Woven together the two are stronger and create something far greater than a single thread. But each thread, each aspect of my life is important.

So, here I am on this gorgeous day in Vermont, lining up all the threads that will come together for this next year. My calendar is chock full of outing and new adventures, moments of contemplation and discovery, art, work, family and love. New threads that have been added to my already rich tapestry are: Graduate school, at Vermont College of Fine Arts, which starts on January 27th, A new website to be kicked off in February, Artfest12 in Port Townsend, WA in March. A trip with Jackson to NYC in April.... That's just the beginning....

To help keep this all in order, I have started the necessary January cleaning of my work space. Primarily, because I could not see the top of the work table or find the rusty bits I had been looking for. Secondarily, I just took down a show and I need space to store all the artwork not currently on display. And then lastly, I have received some requests for people to do "studio visits." The endeavor to make it a viable space to receive patrons, gallery curators and fellow artists in has commenced. I joke with my husband about making the space "good enough" to be in "Where Women Create" magazine. His response is. It's were you create, so it's beautiful enough.

The fabric of my (not-so) lazy Sunday afternoon will be this: Jack and I will finish eating breakfast, take the dog on a long walk in the crisp clear light of this amazing January day and probably haul some wood. I will get to work back down in the basement, stoking the fire of the wood stove, painting backgrounds for new pieces and organizing my heart out. Occasionally, coming up stairs to make some pizza dough, start Sunday dinner and maybe a soup to eat later in the week.

Speaking of fabric... this is what's on my work table now. A new assemblage that's born out of barn board, old embroidery and a well worn quilt.

What threads are you weaving together today?

2011: A diamond in the mind

2011-12-31T13:22:00.001-05:00

What was...
oh so many challenges, changes, surprises and happy accidents

Left with the MEMORIES of all that….

A slow start

Tubing @ Mt Snow

Thinking of Grad School

Hong Kong

Applying to Grad School

Artist as Entrepreneur

Taiwan, Taipei 101, being in 2 places at once

Carlos Santana

Hong Kong, again.

Let’s go Celtics, let’s go! 20 year reunion with Joe Strummer (for a day.)

Spring time in NY, snowboarders on long island, museums in NYC

Judgement Day

Foggy boat ride with Capt’n Steve-o and the Twisted Ankle, Hanging with 40 year old band geeks: Heather and her beautiful daughters, Nurse Brown, Eduardo & the Mrs., Girl talk with Becki. We missed you, Mike.

Cloth Paper Scissor feature. I made this.

Accepted to Grad School! Can’t believe I’m doing this

Big Ideas, Small Books

Books Unbound: 100^th anniversary of the Triangle shirtwaist fire and the honor of a juried prize.

20 years with Mr Jimmy. Where did the time go? We've only just begun.

Discovering Laurie Zuckerman

Queen City Craft

Sailors Valentines

Random acts of assemblage

postcards and banners
press kits, newletters and proposals

grant writing
twitter, facebook, pinterest

Eric Ford: DJ Lazy Eye comes to the rescue
Burlington Free Press
Seven days : I heart u!

the road

night work

year of the flood

olive kitteredge

memory keepers daughter

way of seeing

walking dead, season 2

oddities

Art Is You

Focusing and finding, soundtrack to art, telling stories, wallpapering, glue it and screw it

Sal and Ellen, Sue Pelletier, Seth Apter, Richard Salley, Keith Lobue, Andrea Matus… and of course MDM...And how can I forget, finally meeting my BFF in real life: Jodi Ohl, our madcap adventures and sophisticated taste in wine. Fake it till you make it, baby.

Artists Medium, Altered Books, Lots and lots of gel medium, Van Dyke Brown, disparate objects, rusty things, bird houses with soul.

Dumpster diving, Goodwill hunting, Sal’s Army and Free-cycle

Craigs and a new Showroom

Proto room facelift

Transitions, exits and entrances

Softgoods baby boom

a Technical Design for The Program

Jake’s battle with cancer. Kevin’s return to snow.

Hurricane Irene

The Maine Vacation that didn’t happen

Lake Ontario Lake House

hop, hop, hopping... (another incredibly) successful Art Hop.

Heroes Dare

Litany against Fear

People’s Choice Award

much love to the folks at SEABA

solo shows, group exhibits

Represent Show

Art of Horror

More creepy doll art

Art by Mothers

Ghost Stories @ Black Cap

Sing to Me

(sometimes we make) Promises (we never mean to keep)

how we left the forest, part 1 and part 2
proportions of a man’s heart

sweetest flowers

gifts of a stranger

mercy

leave the light on

Making Strides

Muppet movie made me misty, why?

All You Need is Now: Miss A, Indian food, Neon Trees, Chewing Gum, Brits

Vintage Inspired Marketplace, congrats Mary! Thanks for everything!

Nightfires 2012: A Bear King and beautiful voices: 14 stunning costumes. Thank you Marianne, for gifting me with this.

Grant love from Vermont Counsel of the Arts.

Return to now…

everything she touches changes, everything she changes touches
we've got magic to do
hugs and thanks to you

what will be....
oh... so many things... like a diamond in the mind

Welcome 2012, I’m ready for you.

Little Altars for Peace

2011-12-26T10:17:00.000-05:00

May the blessings of the season be with you and yours.

Wishing you PEACE and PROSPERITY in the year to come

New Exhibition: Vintage Inspired Marketplace

2011-11-20T22:03:00.001-05:00

Vintage Inspired Lifestyle Marketplace on Flynn Avenue in Burlington is a new, funky, accessible and beautifully lit space. It is a delight for shoppers wanting to combine a love of antiques, curious goods and art. My friend Mary Heinrich Aloi is the owner. She has a truly inspired eye and her shop is a haven for hunters, pickers and art lovers. The focus of the shop is creating a reconnection to the past.

VINTAGE INSPIRED MARKETPLACE
180 Flynn Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05495 www.vintageinspired.net

OPEN
Tuesday – Saturday
10am to 5pm,
Sunday
12pm to 4pm

CLOSED Mondays

To kick off the market grand opening, I am featured in an art exhibit along side the wonderful work of Lisa Lillibridge. There's a fun reception planned for the First Friday Art Walk, Friday December 2nd, from 5-8pm. The work will be on view during regular business hours through December 31st. Lisa Lillibridge moved to Burlington, Vermont from South Dakota on New Year’s Day 1990 and started making art. Recently, Lillibridge has been working in wood; carving, painting, pounding found objects and experimenting with various subject matters and finishes. Lisa has created benefit art shows with her son, Ellis Govoni, and participated as an artist-in-residence at The Basin Harbor Club. In her artist statement, Lillibridge states, “I am inspired to live in a community where so many artists donate their art, time and energy to make Burlington such a unique place.” You can find out more about Lisa's work @ http://www.lisilillibridge.com/

Ghost Stories Assemblage Class this SATURDAY 10/29.

2011-10-25T09:00:00.000-04:00

If you didn't get a chance to take my Assemblage classes @ Art-Is-You, you can catch it ONE last time @ Artist's Medium, here in beautiful Williston, VT.

Space is limited. Registration closes @ the end of the day tomorrow, so don't delay. This is probably the last time that I will be teaching this workshop in a while.

Here's all the important details:

Ghost Stories
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 29th
10:30am to 4:30 pm

Artists' Medium

Williston, VT

(802) 879-1236 or toll free (800) 255-1290

with a break for lunch.
$60.00 per student

Ages 16 and up.

Pre-pay sign ups required by Wed. October 26th

Whether it’s an old family photo or a piece of old lace; we’ve all felt the presence of someone long gone when we encounter their things - the imprint they leave behind after possessing an object for a long period of time. These objects once had owners. They were bought and sold, made and broken. Some of them were kept and treasured, while others were forgotten in attics.

Each has a story to tell. This workshop will teach you the basics needed to construct a box assemblage that speaks the ghost stories of the past.

Supply List

DON'T FREAK OUT OVER THE SUPPLY LIST- BRING WHAT YOU HAVE. There will be plenty to share.

A hinged box, like a cigarbox, jewelry box, small doll truck (as seen to left) Doesn't need to be fancy. You can even by an unfinished one @ AC Moore or Michael's.

Found objects: examples: clock parts, gears, typewriter parts, small figurines, dolls parts, game pieces, toys, household items, scraps of fabric, jewelry bits, picture frames, etc. Bring what you have... clean out a junk drawer or a corner of your attic...

Old photos: originals or good quality color copies

Paper of any and all kind scrap booking papers, old ephemera,

Paint brushes to use for paint and for glue

Matte Gel Medium

Craft knife with fresh blades

Pencil

Acrylic paints of your choice and color.

Various other favorite drawing supplies: ie, colored pencils, markers, oil pastels, etc…

I will supply:

Additional found objects, frames, rusty bits, etc.

Strong glue like E6000

Other Adhesives

Some paints: black, white, van dyke brown

Additional paper, images and ephemera

Wire

Other tools: hammer, drill, dremel, etc

Screws, nails and other bits

Hope to see you there!!!

oh october, where did you go.

2011-10-22T23:18:00.000-04:00

This month has probably been one of the busiest I've had in a long time. Today is the 20th, I feel like I am just catching my breath. (actually, it's now the 22nd, and i am desperately trying to finish this blog post.)

With ~~11 days to go~~, 9 days left in October, lets see where I am.

Ghost Stories @ Black Cap

I opened a solo show, Ghost Stories, in Stowe, @ Black Cap Coffee on Sunday the 3rd. WHOO!

We had a pretty good turn of for the reception, considering the rain.

I had some old friends pop in to say hi, as well as some new ones. I really enjoy meeting people as they come to look at the work, answer their questions and tell them the stories behind the pieces.

ArtSeenVT came by the show and posted some lovely shots of the work on their site.
Thanks so much Anahi for the plug.

Her photos are MUCH better than mine. Make sure you check out her link.

On Monday Oct 4th, I found out that I was the winner of the People's Choice Award for the ART HOP's Juried Show. Needless to say, I was completely floored. What an honor!

I am so grateful to everyone who voted for my fear piece. Thank you all ever so much!

Litany Against Fear- People's Choice

I handed off five other pieces to Christy Mitchel on Wednesday, the morning I left for Art-Is-You. She put them together in a show for all the winners of the juried show. I was kind of bummed that I was away for the opening reception. I have been so busy that I haven't even had a chance to get over to SEABA's office/gallery to see all the winner's representative work. But, Christy says it looks great, so I will take her word for it. She always does an amazing job hanging my work.

Also, on Monday 10/4, I dropped off Rosebud and Poor Dolly to Beth Robinson, (yes the creator of Strange Dolls) for the third annual Art of Horror show @ the SPACE gallery. I heard that the opening was amazing!! A huge turn out!! Beth and Kevin posted a ton of pictures on Facebook. I am so glad they did. (These days, I am living vicariously through other people's photos. I feel like I haven't taken enough. So thank you everyone for sharing your pix!)

Wednesday, after dropping off my work at the SEABA gallery space, I headed home and loaded up the van. Fighting off a cold, I made my way to Danbury to teach @ Art-Is-You. It was my first time participating @ a retreat like this. I really didn't know what to expect. But basically, I had my sock blown off.

The students in my classes were just fantastic! They all did a great job with their projects and I feel like we all had some great take-aways. I am so looking forward to teaching there again next year. I have so wonderful ideas of classes to teach in 2012. Thank you everyone for your feedback and wonderful work in the workshops!

On top of teaching, I got to meet so many amazing, creative people.

Nancy Leftko, Seth Apter & me

There was the lovely, talented and extremely funny Sue Pelletier, who kept me sane on day 2 with her sardonic wit.

Sue is down to earth, courageous and strong. I love her TO pieces. She has been a guiding light for me in the mixed media art world. I don't know where I would be without her.

Keith LoBue & moi!

pam & nancy

I also was able to finally met Pam Carriker and Nancy Leftko, two other mixed media artists, whom I have know from Etsy (and later FB) for a number of years now.

Keith LoBue, who I have admired from afar for years, made my acquaintance in the stairwell, the first morning while we were evacuating the building for a fire alarm.

andrea matus

I ended up spending some of my down time with Keith, catching up with my old friend Michael DeMeng, hanging out with Andrea Matus (who shares a love of the tarot with me) and Richard Salley.

I cannot forget Seth Apter, the man behind the Altered Page, (and a very talented artist, as well) who was there @ the vending day.We probably could have talked for hours, about art, work and NYC, but there WAS art to be sold on Sunday. And I was crazy busy vending.

jodi ohl

Last but not least, there is my new BFF, Jodi Ohl. She has been a cyber-friend for years now. We first met via Etsy and have kept up conversations via Facebook and email ever since. She is an incredibly vibrant, brave woman, who makes wonderful art (and is an inspirational teacher, too boot.) When she finally arrived to Art-Is-You, after some crazy mishaps and adventures, we had a grand time and raised hell whenever we could. That's how we roll.

I came back to VT on Monday 10/10. And I feel like I have hardly had a moment's rest.

Since then...

I've been to a bunch of estate sales, caught up with work at my day job, been picking and collecting costume pieces for 2011 Nightfires, helped with the Boy Scout Popcorn fundraisers, walked with Jacko in Making Strides against Breast Cancer.... and well tomorrow, Miss Adrienne and I are headed to Montreal to see my one of my favorite bands play @ the Bell Center.(I'll let you guess who.)

Did all that make you tired? I hope not. I hope you can keep up with me. There's more AMAZING things happening in NOVEMBER. Really fantastic things... Oh and DON'T forget... I'm teaching @ Artist's Medium next SATURDAY 10/29. There's still a few spaces open. But act soon. You don't want to miss out!

jodi ohl

Right, I know... You're asking... when does she sleep? Sometimes, I ask myself the same question.

Rosebud

2011-10-01T11:03:00.000-04:00

So I was looking for a name for my new piece and I was reminded this morning, by my dear friend Mia Troy, about Rosebud. The single word whispered by Charles Foster Kane, the enigma, the mystery that propels the movie, Citizen Kane, forward.

Via Wikipedia: (The reporter )"Thompson finds that he is unable to solve the mystery and concludes that "Rosebud" will forever remain an enigma. He theorizes that "Mr. Kane was a man who got everything he wanted, and then lost it. Maybe Rosebud was something he couldn't get, or something he lost." In the ending of the film, it is revealed to the audience that Rosebud was the name of the sled from Kane's childhood – an allusion to the only time in his life when he was truly happy. The sled, thought to be junk, is burned and destroyed in a basement furnace by Xanadu's departing staff."

Very appropriate for a piece that was assemblage from "junk" found at an estate sale...

So now, she is Rosebud.

New Work: untitled

2011-09-30T23:05:00.000-04:00

I love October and all of the harvest festivities that come long with it. Apple picking, raking the leaves, putting the garden to bed... it also means that ghouls and ghosts will be out in full force to celebrate Halloween. In our house we have many traditions associated with the season. The last couple of years, that tradition has come to include making a few pieces of art to put in the Art of Horror show at the S.P.A.C.E gallery. I love this show. It's gory, spooky and completely unconventional. Putting work in this show helps me to stretch my mind and challenges my personal notions and ideas. When I finish working on pieces for this show, I always feel recharged and inspired about making art again.

Yesterday, I put up photos of Poor Dolly, this new piece was conceived in my head the same day, way back in July. The doll came from the same lot of dolls are the decaying baby and the sled was oddly paired in a lot with the domed box I transformed into her cradle (someone today called it her coffin, yikes...I guess it does look like one, doesn't it.)

There was something about the velvet red dress and the doll's startled expression that seemed to work with the faded, broken sled. So, tonight, I committed to the piece, did some gluing and screwing and pulled the whole thing together...

It makes me think about Edith Wharton's Ethan Frome. about sledding down the hill as a child, even past dusk when my mother had already told me told me several times to come and that it was too dangerous to stay out in the bitter cold. What are the consequences of simple pleasures? Where is the point where thrill turns to folly? turns to disaster? is a life lived entirely in the "safety zone" really lived?

All these questions percolate to the front of my mind, when i think about this new piece. The only thing I can't think of, that i can't come to terms with is a name... maybe you can help me title it....

what should it be called?

New Work:

Untitled

Assemblage from found objects: sled, doll, prayer book, shoe, bonnet, ribbon

45"x19"x9"

New Work: Poor Dolly

2011-09-29T22:23:00.000-04:00

Poor Dolly
Assemblage made from found objects: old domed box, doll, old photograph, silk flowers, child's shoe, fabric.
16"x 18 1/2"x6"

This doll shrine came together over the course of one night, although all the pieces were in my workroom for months. I found the the old dome box and the doll at an estate auction in July. I was so excited to put them together then. The doll fit perfectly into the box, like it was a cradle made just for her. I don't know why it took me two months to actually glue and screw the piece together. I think I was having a little bit of a commitment issue. That's what I call it when you can see the piece in your head, you know you should do it, but you still walk around it and avoid finishing it. So tonight, the tienen duende, the chill in the air or the falling leaves, must have got to me, because the macabre creeped into the workroom and let me finish this piece. So much for the other things I had on the to do list....

She (the doll) reminds me of a time when I was young, probably around 4 years old. We were living upstate NY. My sister had a Mrs Beadsley doll. Christine was probably about 2 years old, and loved that thing to death. Some boys in the neighborhood, grabbed the doll from her and threw it over the fence into the "swamp:" A very wet wood area out back behind the housing development where we used to live. Mrs Beadsley hung for months and months in a tree in the swamp, in a place where no one, in their right mind, would ever attempt to pull her out. So she decayed there, growing dirtier and dirtier, until finally one day she was gone. Probably her shirt had given way and she fell into the muck. Noone really knows what became of her. Parts of her are probably there stil.

In part, this shrine is dedicated to all the things that are lost; the things we can never get back, to all the things that decay, only to reveal another of beauty underneath the paint and the gloss.

Ghost Stories: Opening Reception Sunday October 2nd

2011-09-28T21:48:00.000-04:00

I just got home from Stowe, where I finished hanging my show:
Ghost Stories at the Thompson Gallery, inside the Black Cap Coffee Roasters. The building that the coffee shop is in is really old and has lots of funky charm. The walls in the gallery space are not quite straight and the floor slopes a little here and there. That's what I really love about the room. It's narrow, crooked nature. It's almost like you are in Alice in Wonderland. My pieces, fit right in perfectly.

Plus to be honest, I think there might be a spirit or two hanging around (and I don't mean the ones in my art work, either.) You will have to come by and check it out for yourself.

The wonderfully talented Natasha Bogar helped me hang it all and we were done in record time. I am really looking forward to the opening reception on Sunday. Hope to see you there!

Opening Reception:

SUNDAY

October 2

2pm-5pm

Black Cap Coffee Roasters

144 Main Street

Stowe, VT

New Work: Sing to Me

2011-09-25T16:55:00.000-04:00

Mother O mother, my heart calls for you!

Sing to me your lullaby

I miss you dearly, it's true

Sing to Me

Assemblage

Created from Found Objects: Old Bird House, drift wood, rusty metal, kitchen items, wire, old paper, old photo, silk flowers

7 1/2" x 7" x 6"

ARTFEST 2012, updated teaching schedule and other news....

2011-09-24T14:47:00.000-04:00

I can't believe I forgot to post this?! I suppose there has been so much going on lately. Sometimes I think I would forget my head if it was not attached to my body. My blog, definitely has Facebook envy, so I should give it a little more love, I know.

Here's the scoop.... I am teaching @ ARTFEST, in beautiful Port Townsend in 2012!!!

Woo-hooo!
Can you tell, how excited I am.

first- I am so in awe of Teesha Moore and everything she does. It is such an honor to be asked to teach at this amazing art retreat that she and Tracy put together every year. This is their 13th year!!

second- I have three terrific classes lined up....
Soul Houses
Books Unbound and... a brand new class.... Sailor's Valentines....
It's going to be so much fun to meet a new group of talented people and make art together!

third- I have never been to Washington state. I can't wait to get there and see everything the Seattle area has to offer.

I'm hoping you will join me in this creative exploration... find out more about the classes, registration and ARTFEST in general at the ARTFEST12 website.

There's a ton of stuff going on in the next two months, so stay tuned for all the updates to come....There's new classes in Williston @ Artist's Medium, The annual Art of Horror show @ the SPACE gallery, Art-Is-You in Danbury, CT, and a solo exhibition @ Black Cap Coffee roasters in Stowe (which opens next weekend!)

and.... don't forget... if you live in the Burlington area.... you still have a week to get in some last minute art-hopping. There's one week left to see the Art Hop juried show @ SEABA's office @ 404 Pine Street. My piece, Litany of Fear, is in the running for the people's choice award. Make sure to get down there and check it out!

Ok, glad we got to get caught up....
Time to get back to work!

Creatively yours!
Lorraine

New Work in Progress: More little bird houses

2011-09-17T14:26:00.000-04:00

I'm working a bunch of new pieces to take to the ART TRUCK @ ART-IS-YOU, in Danbury, CT. next month. There's some new little houses sitting on the work table that need to get finished, like this guy. I've got the house together and the face, still working out the sides.... needs a title...

And there are still some spots left in my SOUL HOUSE class in Danbury.

SOUL HOUSES

Thurs. Oct. 6th 10AM-5PM

The symbolism connected to birds goes back to the ancient world, where birds were considered to be a supernatural link between the gods & men. In East Indian & Christian mythologies birds represent the soul. In this workshop you will you create a beautiful safe haven for your hopes & dreams. By tapping into your true creative spirit we will transform ordinary bird houses into vessels that whisper of remembrance. Learn to be creatively brave in this process orientated approach to creating altered art.

Check out the ART-IS-YOU for more information and to register. Hope to see you there!

Work in Progress: How We Left the Forest

2011-09-16T08:01:00.000-04:00

Very remotely inspired by an album (and song) by Rasputina. Yes, Rasputina the cello-driven punk band from New York, that is renowned for their unconventional and quirky music style as well as their fascination with historical allegories and fashion, especially those pertaining to the Victorian era.

This is How We Left the Forest....
Almost complete.
I'll let your imagination go with what it all means.....

Just waiting for a special detail and some glue to dry......

New Work: the Old House

2011-09-11T21:57:00.000-04:00

I started working on this piece during the hurricane Irene. The piece evolved as the weather changed. As the news reports came in about the flooding the house took on it's own significance for me.

Here in Vermont, hundreds of miles away from the coast, devastation and destruction was raining down on many towns and cities in the southern half of the state. A town that I used to lived in, Waterbury, was extremely hard hit. Homes were swept down river, roads were washed out, and families stranded or left to live in make shift shelters in church rectories and school cafeterias.

No other event comes close to this except for the the Flood of 1927 which stands as the greatest disaster in Vermont history. Devastation occurred throughout the state, taking place on November 3rd and 4th when 1285 bridges were lost as well as countless numbers of homes and buildings destroyed and hundreds of miles of roads and railroad tracks washed out. The flood waters claimed 84 lives, including that of the Vermont Lieutenant Governor at the time, S. Hollister Jackson.

History almost repeated itself, as Hurricane Irene (actually downgraded to a tropical storm by the time it got this far north) pounded Vermont with heavy rains and winds. I am grateful that our current home was spared. In comparison to our neighbors and friends to the south, we saw very little damage.

You will notice the shovel handle, meant to symbolize the digging out of the mud and debris that settled in homes and basements, the feet, that represent the firm footing the community has, the driftwood, the yard sticks and the Virgin Mary on the second floor, who is prays intently for the storm to end.

This piece: the Old House, is dedicated to Vermonters, old and new; who have seen nature's scorn and survived.

I would rather not go
back to the old house
there's too many
bad memories
too many memories....
here began all my dreams....
and you never knew
how much I really liked you
because I never even told you
oh, but I meant to...
Are you still there?
or have you moved away?

I would love to go
back to the old house....

but I never will- The Smiths

New Work: She gathers the sweetest flowers

2011-09-01T15:16:00.000-04:00

New Work

7" x 5" x 3 1/2"

Assemblage created from found objects:

old box, statuette, magazine scraps from 1870s, rusty metal, door handle, dried flowers, driftwood

Just like Persephone, she gathers the sweetest flowers....keep watch over her, so she will not be swept away.

S.P.A.C.E. August Auction: Closing reception Friday 9/2

2011-08-30T19:02:00.000-04:00

The S.P.A.C.E gallery is holding is annual August Auction to raise funds in support of this amazing co-operative artists space.

The closing reception is this FRIDAY

September 2

5-8pm

You can bid on-line

or in person

The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery, 266 Pine Street, Burlington

....but don't delay, bidding ends THIS Friday @ 8pm!

HOW TO BID ONLINE:

– Peruse the site: Click “ARCHIVE” at the top of the page to take a quick look at the thumbnails of all work that is on the website. I have donated the piece "Waiting to Grow" to this event. This piece was featured in Somerset Studio's "Sisterhood" issue.

– Bid! Post your bid as a comment, and add your email address in order to leave a comment so SPACE can contact you if you win.

– Don’t be outbid!

Make sure you check the box that says “Notify me of follow-up comments via email.” (right under the “submit comment” button) so you will be emailed automatically when others post their bid.

The participating artists are eligible to win a variety of great awards. Help your favorite artist win! (Oh! Oh! Pick Me! Pick Me!) This year’s prizes are:

• Highest Bid wins a 2 night stay in Montreal, courtesy of Kasini House
• People’s Choice wins a $50 gift certificate to Black Horse Fine Art Supply
• One artist drawn at random wins a $25 gift certificate to Artists Mediums

OK! that's the scoop! Hope you have a wonderfully creative day, stay dry (we are still a little damp from Hurrican Irene) and be well! oh yeah.... don't forget to bid!

New Work: Heroes Dare

2011-08-29T15:22:00.000-04:00

Heroes Dare-Detail

Spirit, that made those heroes dare

To die, and leave their children free

Bid Time and Nature gently spare

The shaft we raise to them and thee

New work, just finished today.

Wall Piece

20"x 14" x 4"

Dedicated to all our fallen heroes. May you always be remembered.

Heroes Dare- Detail

Mixed Media Assemblage, made from old picture frames, book cover, clock & typewriter parts.

Heroes Dare - 20"x14"x4"

NEW WORK: Promises

2011-08-26T12:02:00.000-04:00

(some times we make) Promises (we never mean to keep)

Promises-Soul House Assemblage

here's a new soul house assemblage.

inspired by a line from a song... amazing how that happens, right?

The Promise

Those tears on a gaping voice
Who's stretching arms match the hunger of mine
There lips will they never join
But always draw me closer and further entwined
With a promise dealer, understand all freedoms fade away
To a point of view, where many different pathways meet
And we're standing on this precipice with nothing much to save
But the deep blue screams of falling dreams with our next move

Heaven hide your eyes
Heaven's eyes will never dry

The shades of a thousand steel
Come flashing by my face in the fury of war
In desolation and abandoned fields
The hungry make their stand when they'll stand for no more
Hear the passion in their voices see the heaven in their eyes

Their hopes and schemes are waiting dreams of less than paradise
And sometimes we make promises we never mean to keep
And blackmail is the only deal a promise dealer sees
Heaven hide your eyes
Heaven's eyes will never dry

Any guesses on who wrote the song? Musically, not a huge stretch for me.

You will be able to see this piece LIVE and up close at the South End Art Hop, in two weeks. I will be showing my work in a few spots, notably @ Alderson / Jordan Silverman Studio in the Soda Plant.

Thanks for stopping by... here's to a wonderfully creative day!

Winners and Losers

2011-08-21T14:42:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, I spent the day at Artists Medium, teaching some incredible women how to make altered books. It was a great group and I am so inspired by their creativity and energy. I want to give a special shout out to Chelsea, Kristen and the entire staff at AM, who always make me feel so at home when I teach in their space! Thank you!
Also, I am sure you all want to know who is getting the Altered Book Kit.... Can I have a drum roll please.....

The winner of my altered book giveaway is Carol Berger... Miss Queen Bee, herself! Thank you, Carol for sharing the love of Glimmering Prize too all your peeps on Facebook. Carol is a terrific mixed media artist, herself. I can't wait to see what she makes from all the great paper and materials I'm sending her.

If you didn't win this time, don't worry, I am doing another very special giveaway at the end of the month. I'll give you a hint... it has something to do with boxes...and another class that I am teaching @ Art-Is-You in Danbury, CT.

After pulling together all the materials for Carol's prize I realized just how much "stuff" I have filling the shelves in my workroom.

I've been busy working on new pieces for up coming shows and I have no where to put the completed work. So I have to clear out some space in the workroom. I spent a good portion of the morning photographing tons of great ephemera packs and old photos, that I just don't have the space for.

My loss is your gain. Check out my ETSY site all this week. I will be listing like crazy. There will be new stuff added daily. This is just a teaser of some of the stuff I am listing....There will be lots of old photo lots, Ephemera paper collage packs, beautiful old sheet music, vibrant children's books with wonderful illustrations, and lots of rusty bits. There might even be an odd curiosity or two. Wonderful stuff for all your mixed media projects. Thanks for stopping by! Hope you have an artful day!

2 days left to register for the Altered Book Kit Giveaway!

2011-08-18T21:09:00.002-04:00

Yes, it's true you only have 2 days left to sign up for the altered book kit giveaway.
How do you sign up?
It's easy. All you have to do is post something about my blog to your facebook page, twitter, blog, etc. then comment to this post with the link, and tada! You in the running for this great kit to get you started on your very own altered book.

The kit includes... an old book to alter, (great title: "humankind") lots of ephemera and old photos, and found objects for embellishments. All you need is glue and your imagination. the winner will be drawn at random after i teach my altered book class at Artists Medium this Saturday.

Anyone registered for the class is automatically entered. In fact, I am going to open it up even further, if you are registered for any of my upcoming classes, @ Artists Medium, Art is You - Danbury or ARTFEST12, send me an email, let me know what venue and class your are registered for and you will be in the drawing too.

Here's to being creatively brave! Have an artful day!

Altered Books, Art Auctions and other amazing things and a giveaway!

2011-08-14T22:36:00.002-04:00

There's so much going on right now, I don't know quite were to start.

Let's see...

First

Two of my altered books...

angels have wings - detail- altered book

'angels have wings' and 'The Messenger of Truth' and are in a juried show at the Artistree Gallery in Woodstock, VT. The show is called "Unbound". Its a show that challenges the concept of "books" and features the work of 30 artists.

When Jack and I drove down there a few weeks ago to drop of my pieces, I was overwhelmed by the quality of the work. There are some INCREDIBLE pieces of art in this show.

Messenger of Truth & 3 Marys Altered Books

The gallery had a kick off reception last week that I was unable to attend. But, I was told that despite the rainy weather, the turnout was the biggest they have ever had.

The really exciting new is is that 'angels have wings' took won 3rd place! When I found out yesterday, I was so ecstatic and amazed. It is the first time I have ever won a jury prize. It is also the 100th year anniversary of the Triangle Fire. The events surrounding this historic event is the basis of my altered book, so in a way the prize honors the 146 who died in the fire as well.

I want to thank Adrian Tans, Gallery Director, Tayo Skarrow, Executive Director of Artistree Gallery as well as the juror Deborah Davidson. I am extremely grateful and appreciative of this acknowledgment and honor.

waiting to grow

Secondly, I am so excited to have a piece of art in the Annual August Art Auction at the S.P.A.C.E. gallery on Pine Street in Burlington. Christy Mitchell approached me last month about donating a piece of art to help raise fund to support the S.P.A.C.E. gallery. I was more than willing to help out for this great cause. My piece "waiting to grow" is on the auction block. This piece was feature a while back in Somerset Studio Magazine. You can bid online by visiting the auction website via this link.

The auction kicked off this past August 12 and bidding ends at 8pm on August 26th during the closing reception at the S.P.A.C.E. Gallery. You can also vote for your favorite work while you visit the website! Artists have been entered to win gift certificates to Artist Mediums for People’s Choice Award and Art Map / Kasini House has donated a weekend in Montreal to the artist with the highest bid. Won't help out this amazing local art's organization?


Reliquary of Faith- altered book

Lastly, I've added some more teaching dates to my calendar. This coming Saturday 8/20, I will be teaching my altered books workshop at Artist's Medium in Williston. There are still a few spots left in this very popular class. Contact Artists Medium @ (802) 879-1236.

I am also very excited to announce that I will be teaching at Artfest 2012 in Port Townsend, WA. 2012 marks the 13th anniversary of this art retreat that continues to get better and better every year. Put together by Teesha and Tracy Moore, Artfest is the original alternative arts retreat. The workshops are considered the "the cream of the crop" and the evening events, the location and the attendees who come set Artfest apart from other events. The teachers come from all over the United States, Canada, England & Australia and represent some of the best in their fields.I am so excited to be teaching three classes there next March: Soul Houses, Books Unbound, Sailor's Valentines.

To celebrate all these exciting events I have decide to do a giveaway. Post a link to my blog to your Facebook page, Twitter or Blog, mention this giveaway and my classes and you will be entered to win an altered book kit, that includes: and old book, photos, ephemera, fabric embellishments, and all sorts of other things that will inspire you to create your own altered book.Easy? right?

Make sure you add a comment to this blog post with your link.

The drawing takes place on Sunday, 8/21, so don't delay. Post away.

Have a creative week!

NEWLY ADDED CLASS! Williston, VT. ALTERED BOOK WORKSHOP 8/20

2011-07-27T13:47:00.000-04:00

Back by popular demand, I am teaching my Altered Books Workshop on Saturday August 20th from 10:30am to 4:30 pm at Artists' Medium, right here in beautiful Williston, VT.

This workshop will have you gluing, cutting, painting and tearing up old books to create 3 dimensional works of art. We will break all rules set into place by librarians and school teachers who told you books were meant to be kept on shelves. This class will offer you a space freely develop your own personal narrative with found objects; transforming ordinary pages of text into something mythical and profound, using something as simple as an old book as your base. We will bravely enter into creative new territories in this process oriented class.

SPACE IS LIMITED for this class!!! If you want to attend, don't delay. This class has historically SOLD OUT!

Call Artist's Medium for more info

(802) 879-1236 or toll free (800) 255-1290.
300 Cornerstone Drive, Williston, VT 05495

Supply list and more details can be found here on my VT class page.

New WorK: Litany Against Fear: Collection Vessel

2011-07-23T14:36:00.050-04:00

Litany Against Fear- L Reynolds 2011

I've been working on this piece for a while, but now I am happy to say it is finished. It is currently taking up residence in my dining room but soon to be on display in Burlington.

The idea for this started to incubate in my head last October. Little by little, I worked on it; adding objects here and there, searching for just the right something or some other thing to add. Unlike some of my work that can be very spontaneous, I could picture in my head exactly how I wanted this piece to look. It was just a matter of committing to the piece and finding the right materials.

I have always been inspired by the Bene Gesserit Litany Against Fear, that appears in Frank Herbert's book, Dune. I used those words as a starting point for this piece. The idea being to overcome your fear you need to let it past through you. Allow the storm of emotion to come forward, always remembering that the only this that is constant and the thing that will endure is yourself. That is how you tackle those things you fear the most. Each of streamer's that float in the tree bears one line of the litany.

I must not fear.

Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past, I will turn my inner eye to see its path. Where fear has gone there will be nothing.

Only I will remain.

Detail: Litany Against Fear: Torso

Close up- Litany Against Fear

Close up: Litany Against Fear

Closeup: Litany Against Fear

Close up: Litany Against Fear: Stand

The streamers

Litany Against Fear: Detail: Streamers

This piece speaks on many levels and I could go on and on about their meanings for me personally, but I feel it's really important to just let it speak for itself. I have plans on showing this and it's sister: Desire at the South End Art Hop in September. It is much more impressive in person, than in a photo.

Litany Against Fear: Detail: Torso

Litany Against Fear: Detail: Collection Vessel

When it is on display, I will ask viewers to people write down their fears and place them in the vessel. If you can't make it and you want your fear added, please feel free to leave me a comment on this blog post or email me directly. I would love to include it in the work.

And what of Desire? This piece is still sitting on the workroom table. After this morning treasure hunting (aka yard-sailing) I am very excited to get back to work later tonight. I will post more photos of her as she progresses.

Litany Against Fear: Detail: Torso

"the only thing we have to fear is fear itself" FDR

CLASS UPDATES and SUPER SAVER COUPON

2011-07-02T17:06:00.000-04:00

The summer always make me feel really creative. I love spending Saturday morning hunting for treasures at yard sales. I come home with a big pile of rusty things and just want to get down to the workroom and get things started. You feel the same way? Maybe you need some thing to inspire you? Maybe we should get together and make some art!

Well there's some great opportunities for us to work on some special art projects together.

There's still a few spots left in my classes at INSPIRE MY LIFE. Yes, I'm headed to the Midwest at the end of the month, to hang out with one of my favorite people Kim Geiser, in beautiful Manitowoc, WI. If you live near by I would love to see you!

If being in the Midwest is not in your plans this summer, why not take one or two of my classes at the splendid art retreat, ART-IS-YOU, in Danbury, CT, in October. October feels like it is so far away, but classes at this annual retreat book up fast.

http://www.art-is-you.com/mysitecaddy/site3/reynolds-soul.htm

To sweeten the deal, the ladies @ Art-Is-You are offering a super saver coupon for $50 off your full registration. But, the coupon is only go FOR ONE DAY. Monday July 4th. So don't delay. Make sure to used the coupon code:JULY4 when you register.

Hope you have a creative weekend! See you in the the classroom.

Queen City Craft Bazaar- This Saturday 6/4!

2011-05-31T18:45:00.002-04:00

The Queen City Craft Bazaar is Vermont's indie craft extravaganza featuring over 40 of the best indie crafters, artists and designers from all over Vermont and surrounding areas.

THIS SATURDAY

June 4th 2011

10 AM- 6:00 PM

Union Station, 1 Main Street

Burlington, VT

This is NOT your Grandma's craft show. It is a juried show that features a melange of indie crafters, artists and designers who produce unique handmade items.
Some of THE best crafters and artisan will be there:

photo courtesy: QCCB

my egg blue
Jess Graham Studio
KIMIKO
Stacie Mincher Designs
Happy Fantastic Designs
New Duds
urban farmgirl
Robot Dinosaur
recycle moe
Boda Boda
Feisty Ink Designs
Bayview Designs
Bethany Bond Photographic Art
may day studio

and a whole lot more!

... Oh yeah, did I forget to say that I'll be there selling my art. I've created some wonderful new pieces for this years show. Come find me and say hi. I'll be upstairs, same spot as last year.

Blogger and Facebook fans, mention that you heard about the show online and get an additional 10% off your total.

As always admisson is FREE! There's parking near by or you can take the free College Street shuttle from uptown and get dropped off right at the front door. Union Station is an amazing pld train station at the bottom of Main Street right on the waterfront.Never been there before? Look for the flying monkeys you can't miss it.

photo courtesy: QCCB

Sailor's Valentines Revisited

2011-05-29T21:50:00.000-04:00

waiting for me

last week i was down on long island. every may i have this sort of homecoming. i go down to long island, ny to work with a crew of amazing snowboarders to get their feedback on the product we are developing for the upcoming season.often, i also have the opportunity to see some friends i have known for almost 20 years to go back to parts of the island where i grew up.

Monday night, i stood on the ocean, on the edge of the beach at twilight; the waves lapped at my feet. the ocean were calling me. if i did not have a company dinner waiting for me, i probably would have leaped into the water and transformed into an undine. i miss living where the land meets the water. i miss the ocean.

close up: waiting for me

waiting for me: close up

close up: waiting for me

maybe this is why today, i have been able to finish two new pieces inspired by sailor's valentines. "everthine" and "waiting for me." perhaps the salt is still on my skin and in my hair, i can still hear ocean calling me, all the way up here in the mountains. i can still feel the wind blowing through your hair. if you ever lived near the water you will know exactly how i feel. if not, perhaps my new sailor's valentines can evoke the sad melancholy the ocean brings to me....

ever thine

everthine: close up

everthine; close up

everthine: close up

Random acts of Assemblage

2011-05-15T13:26:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, Jackson and I went down to Oakledge Park to gather up some driftwood for a new project I'm starting. The lake waters have been receding after being a flood levels for over a week. The side walks and beach were simply covered with tons and tons of driftwood and debris from the weeks of rain and snow melt.

Needless to say we found some great wood to work into my next few assemblages. We also found that other visitors to the park had created their own art, assembled from driftwood and other objects found on the beach. Jack was inspired and he created his own impromptu sculpture. We left the park with rain clouds and fog gathering on the edge of the lake. What an inspiring morning.

Art By Mothers

2011-05-03T20:47:00.000-04:00

I am super excited to be a part of this show in Stowe! Many thanks to Heidi Townsend and Natasha Bogar for inviting me to be part of this terrific show!

Cloth Paper Scissors May/June Issue

2011-04-27T18:16:00.000-04:00

The weather in Vermont has decided to go along with the fact that Spring might actually be here! It's an amazing blue sky day; daffodils are blooming, the birds are singing, peepers are peeping. To make it even more outstanding. I have just received my comp copy of this month's Cloth Paper Scissor Magazine. I've been waiting for this issue for a while. It contains my first published article. I am so excited about this opportunity and honored to be in a publication that has featured some of my favorite mixed media artists (and friends.)

The article features my Bird House Shrines series and discusses my motivation and process behind making them. I am so please with the way the whole thing turned out, and the photography is just stunning.

The Soul House series stirred such a strong response in people that created a workshop on how to create your own bird house shrine.

I'll be teaching this process later this summer in Wisconsin at Inspire My Life and in the Fall at Art-Is-You in Danbury, CT. The class sizes are limited so don't delay in registering. I'm so excited to be able to reach out to a broader audience and talk about artistic potential and creative fearlessness! I can't wait to get back into the class room again. I hope to see you there!

So as the stream bubbles by, outside the screen porch where I sit, taking in the issue, my heart brims over with thanks to all the people who have helped me along the way. I can only bask in the serenity and joy of the moment for a brief time. My own creative fearlessness, is being tested tonight. I'm wrapping up a new piece for a looming deadline. I thrive on meeting time lines, so I know it's going to be an all cylinders evening.

So friends, I must jet. Thanks for stopping by, be well, stay creative and fearless!

Somethings (are better left unsaid)

2011-04-07T21:33:00.000-04:00

somethings(are better left unsaid)

this is a new shrine,assemblage piece made from found objects, old cabinet card, and a discarded light fixture.
tribute to secrets, fears and things that cannot be expressed with words.

14"x 6"x 6 1/2"

Reliquary Of Faith

2011-04-06T20:45:00.000-04:00

I just finished a new altered book for the Vt Book Arts Guild Show: Big Ideas, Small Books, an exhibit of artist books at the Emile A. Gruppe Gallery. The show will run April 17 - May 22, 2011. The opening reception will be on Sunday April 17th, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Subject matter includes both 2-D and 3-D works, smaller than 5" x 5", in all media relating to book arts, including hand-made paper, artists’ books, calligraphy etc.

I call this book Reliquary of Faith. It's made from an old prayer book, found objects, ephemera, and a lovely old tin type photo.

Build a little bird house in your soul

2011-03-08T21:28:00.000-05:00

I had an amazing weekend. On top of some crazy weather and record snow fall. I spent a rainy Saturday @ Artists' Medium creating Birdhouse Shrines with four amazing ladies. All the students in my class really stepped it up and produced beautiful work. To listen to them at the end of the class, talking about their 6 hour artistic journey and beaming in delight over their work was so rewarding.

Artists' Medium is locally owned and operated art supply store here in Williston, Vt. The shop employees are very supportive of my work. They work hard to get the word out and promote the class. I really appreciate the opportunity to interface with the community this way. It's such a gift! Thanks, Chelsea and Kristen!

They've had me in the shop to do demos and teach other classes. Each time has been a memorable experience. This time was no exception.I really love teaching there. I always leave inspired and pumped about the creative process. Kristen and I are talking about scheduling an altered books class. I haven't taught that in a while, so should be great fun!

Thanks ladies for your terrific work! You all did wonderful things! Stay creative, trust your instincts and don't forget to glue and screw.

Don't live in VT. Don't worry. I will be teaching at Art-Is-You, East Coast Art Retreat, this Fall. Check out their website for more info....

and the winner is....

2011-03-02T12:10:00.000-05:00

Thanks everyone for their comments and link. A little guerrilla marketing goes along way. With your help, my classes should be completely full.

Sorry for the delay on posting... life got in the way of me picking a winner for the soon to be finished bird house assemblage.

Thank you, Jess for pulling this name at random....

Pamela Tomerlin

congrats!!! you're assemblage will be in the mail soon!

Didn't win??? Don't fret. April will be bringing another fantastic art giveaway. So, stayed tune!!

Thanks again, everyone! Have a creative day!

Soul House Class at Artists' Medium & Giveaway

2011-02-26T13:02:00.000-05:00

I can't believe February is almost over. Here in Vermont, that means the days are a little longer, and the hardest part of the winter will soon be behind us. March will be here in a blink of an eye, and I will be at Artists' Medium teaching next weekend!

I've got a little cabin fever. I am really looking forward to getting out, meeting some new students and teaching this class. Do you need to get out and stretch your wings, too? Need a little creativity and inspiration in your life? There's still a few spots available, I'd be thrilled to have you in the class!

SOUL HOUSES at Artist's Medium, Williston, VT

Saturday, March 5th
10:30AM-4:30 PM

$60

300 Cornerstone Drive
Williston, VT, 05495
300 Cornerstone Drive 05495
Call to register

1-802-879-1236
1-800-255-1290
email: info@artistsmedium.com

click here for supply list and more info about the class.

The end of February also means that it's almost time for me to giveaway a little bird house shrine. I'm in the process of finishing it up. It needs to get it's little nest inside and some work to the front, but it's almost done.

I wonder who will be the lucky winner? It could be you! The drawing will be on 2/28. If you haven't signed up yet, it's not too late.

All you have to do is to make a post blog/website/FB page about the Soul House classes I'm teaching here in VT (and also in CT in the Fall)

Then add the link for my workshop page to your site.

http://glimmeringprize.blogspot.com/p/workshops.html

Attach a comment to this blog post with your link. (Don't forget to include your name)

That's it!! You are in the running for a brand new birdhouse shrine that is just days away from being finished

So, spread the word!

Thanks so much for your support and hope to see you in the class room some time soon!

Fear is the Mind Killer

2011-02-19T10:20:00.000-05:00

I have been incubating on a new project for a while and I finally have gotten a chance to get down to the workroom to start it. It stems out from an idea while I was making some of the bird house shrines.

The initial idea behind the whole bird house is that it was a physical place to store emotion and feelings. I would take bits and pieces of things that have resonance and meaning; like scraps of fabric, feathers, bits of photographs, and lines of text, and put them inside the birdhouse, before I sealed up the hole. The bird house is transformed into a vessel to hold the emotion. With the bird houses, this idea just came to me intuitively. Since then, I have been doing some research into Victorian Memory Vessels. I have decide to work on two large pieces that further this concept. This time however, I am being much more intentional about the work. The pieces are going to be interactive. It relies on feedback from you to be created.

The first piece is about FEAR.

Fear is a distressing emotion aroused by a perceived threat. It is a basic survival mechanism occurring in response to a specific stimulus, such as pain or the threat of danger. It is part of our core, basic emotions. We all have fears, and the range of things that frighten us is astounding.

Sometimes when you create ART, you are forced to face certain fears. Facing those emotions can be extremely difficult, but the result is almost always one that reaps greater benefit than loss.

My first steps in making this piece is to identify what people are really afraid of.

Some of the most common fears are of: ghosts, evil powers, bugs, snakes, heights, water, enclosed spaces, bridges, needles, social rejection, failure, examinations public speaking, flying, heights, clowns, intimacy, death, and success.

I am definitely afraid of some of those things.

I'm asking all you brave souls to leave me a comment about what your greatest FEAR is.

Since all my comments are moderated, you can definitely remain anonymous. Just leave me a little note in you comment and i won't post to the blog. All the "FEARS" that I collect will go into the vessel that I am creating, as well as help me to construct the outer shell of the piece.

Thanks for sharing, and I look forward to receiving your comments.

The Litany Against Fear

I must not fear.Fear is the mind-killer.
Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
I will face my fear.
I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path.
Where the fear has gone there will be nothing.
Only I will remain.^[2]

Soul House Shrine Giveaway

2011-02-01T06:00:00.002-05:00

Yes, you read that right, I am giving away a bird house shrine.

I am just so excited about my upcoming workshop schedule, I just can't contain myself.

Here's the deal...

I'm teaching my Soul Houses class here in VT in March @ Artist's Medium and in CT @ East Coast Art Retreats in October. You can find out more about the workshops I am leading at my workshop page.

All you have to do is post a link on your blog/website/FB page about the class.

Make sure you link back to my workshop page. Attach a comment to this blog post with your link.

That's it. Then, you are in the running for a new birdhouse shrine that I am finishing up this month, in preparion for my class at Artist's Medium.

I will be selecting on person's name at random on February 28th, so spread the word.

Thanks for your support and hope to see you in the class room some time soon!

inspiration-Louise Nevelson

2011-01-30T19:15:00.052-05:00

Louise Nevelson is best known for her monochromatic, abstract expressionist assemblages. She used found objects and discarded things to make shallow "crates" at are grouped together to make larger works.

"When you put together things that other people have thrown out, you’re really bringing them to life – a spiritual life that surpasses the life for which they were originally created."

Art is You - Early Registration Drawing

2011-01-24T20:04:00.000-05:00

Did you know that I am teaching at ART IS YOU this October??

Art is You is a fantastic annual east coast art retreat that takes place Columbus Day weekend in Danbury, CT. It is jammed packed with internationally recognized teaching artists who come together to celebrate and create mix media arts.

I am so excited to be able to lead two new workshops; Ghost Stories and Soul Houses. It's an honor to have an opportunity to share my process and techniques on at such a large venue. I will be blogging about these course offering in the weeks to come. So, stay tuned for more information and inspiration.

Most importantly, you should know that Sallianne and Ellen are hosting an amazing giveaway. If you register BEFORE January 31st, you will be entered into a drawing to WIN BACK YOUR REGISTRATION! - I wouldn't waste another minute. Imagine it, the possibility of attending an Art Retreat, for free! Click on the link and secure your place today. Last years turn out was huge and this year is expected to be even better. Don't miss your opportunity!

what was, what is, what will be

2011-01-06T21:48:00.000-05:00

what was...what is and what will be...

2010
what was...
oh so many challenges
growth
and resolutions
surprises and happy accidents
started the artist's way and never finished it
No new clothing challenge
Suzanne Vega/Lebanon Opera House/Can't believe I got to meet one of my musical muses/Thank you Phil!
QCCB, best craft show i've done to date
Xcountry with Nini, Dave and the kids
Hanging with Debbie, Moose Lodge and Light Beer
Grown up cousin Nicole walking down the aisle, say I do, Alice and George beaming
Spring time in NY, snowboarders on long island, museums in nyc
Flooded kitchen
Down trees, power's out
Garden tours
Memorial Day haircuts from Capt'n Sean
Brimfield treasures, antique warriors and onion ring for Jesus
Scotch and cigars with Edwardo
Ferries ride across Champlain
Tahawus, Fort Ticonderoga 13 stitched for Jacko
Allentown: this is my rifle, mad world, sorry Blue Devils, but Cavi's rule
Hershey's chocolate and amazing roller coasters
Gettysburg you touched my soul forever
Art walks, Ghost stories
Find Beauty Everyday
photoshop class, postcards and banners
press kits
lots of etsy love, treasuries up the wazoo (thank you all the etsians, who i have never met who featured me in their treasuries)
twitter
facebook
Burlington Free Press
Seven days four weeks in a row
nickgammaphotography, master of light and mood, i heart you.

zombieland (the remember the little things)

doctor parnassus

lovely bones

boardwalk empire (oh the 20's)

walking dead

while i was gone

mermaid chair

drive from clausen's pier

ahab's wife

adventure's of sherlock holmes

in the tenth house

ursula, under

daughter of fortune

mrs dalloway

yards sales, estate sales, and auctions
Ethan Merrill, the best looking auctioneer in New England
Stacking wood and bon fires
fake it till you make it
lay-offs (grrr...)
dog and pony shows
Market feedback, skittle kids, park rats
SIG, SLIG, SLIM, TEAM
new hires
mentors, coaching, a to b model
what do you want? how do you get it? what stands in your way?
some things are better left unsaid
spooky doll house
bird houses with soul
man in a shoe
Captain O my Captain
Charlotte O Charlotte,
I lost the tip of my finger
(small price to pay for an amazingly productive, creative day)
angels and demons, mdm (aka tom waits) you still inspired me and i learn something from you every-time

hop, hop, hopping... first year showing in a the juried show at the Art Hop

much love to the folks at SEABA

solo shows, group exhibit

Art of networking

Art of horror

77 Reasons

what remains

so many memories that linger in my mind, i will not forget you.

what is-NOW
Opportunities, opportunities, opportunities
find beauty everyday
everything she touches changes, everything she changes touches
we've got magic to do
hugs and thanks to you

what will be....
oh... so many things... come along for the ride and see the sites with me.

Proportions of a Man's Heart

2011-01-03T20:13:00.000-05:00

You may have seen a few glimpses of this piece in the fall, when I posted it as a WIP, before it went to the Art of Horror show. I wanted to share a few more photos of the finished piece.

I'm currently in the process of photographing all my work and adding to my Etsy shop. So you will be seeing some details on pieces you might not have seen before, or only viewed as a work in process.

Also, I have some great news to share; I will be teaching my techniques and process of making box assemblages like this at East Coast Art Retreats. The class is called "Ghost Stories." You will learn how to I pull together the story from found objects and create your own narrative from artifacts.

Stay tuned for more info on this as registration is opening soon

Title: Proportions of a Man's Heart

Materials: Mixed Media Assemblage (created from found objects, vintage tool box, plastic classroom anatomy figure, key hole, key, old paper, book cover, barbed wire, army men, gel medium, acrylic paint)

Size:14 1/2" across x 10 1/2" tall x 4 1/2" deep

This piece is for sale. See Art Section or my Etsy Site for more info.

Season's Greetings

2010-12-25T17:37:00.000-05:00

MAY THE BLESSINGS OF THE SEASON BE WITH YOU!

Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a joyous New Year!

Our Darling

2010-12-20T20:14:00.000-05:00

I am extremely lucky to have good friends around me, who always have insightful tips for me. Like this one from a fantastic graphic designer I know. A while back, he said to me: "Your work is great, but you really need to improve your photography." I took his work to heart and bought a new camera. Got some clip lights and created some white drapes. The result...I have to say, I am very happy with....

This is a new, soon to be listed on ETSY piece, called Our Darling. Part of my latest Soul House series that uses old bird houses as foundations for mixed media assemblages.This one is has a little different feel than some of the others. But I love the way the inside came to life with just a little light shining in from the side.

And finally.... A hearty congratulations are in order for.....Laurel Martin. The winner of my giveaway, who's name was chosen at random by my son Henry! If you didn't win, don't worry, there will be other giveaway in the next few months. You'll just have to stay tuned... there's a lot more fun in store for 2011!

Today is the Day!

2010-12-19T13:22:00.001-05:00

Good Luck and Happy Holidays!

You may have heard...I am doing a special giveaway today. After all the chores are done, cookies baked, gifts wrapped, cards made and packages packed... I will be drawing someone's name out of a hat.

So cheer me on as I take on my holiday to do list. Leave me a comment to tell me how you get through your holidays and you will be entered to win this one of a kind signed collage. "A boy."

I've been playing with my blog layout and even added some new features. Sign up for my newsletter and mailing list. I've got some great things planned for 2011, don't be left out.

Don't forget if you spend $50 or more on my ETSY site you get FREE SHIPPING any where in the US. I'll even gift wrap your purchase!

Fast times - looking to slow down

2010-12-15T08:41:00.000-05:00

It finally feels like winter here in the beautiful Green Mountain State. It's cold and blustery outside, the days are shorter, the ground is covered with snow and our German shorthair pointer will not go outside without his sweater on. In the morning, the boys are bundled up waiting for the bus in the morning donned in hats and mittens, huddling close to their hot chocolate. Salad days have ended and hearty soups and hot sandwiches are staples in my lunch box. The buzz all around is about driving to the mountain, shredding and sledding, getting out to enjoy the white stuff. And then of course, there's the Holiday Parties, cookie swaps, shopping and decorating... so much to think about and so much to do. There are so many things to prepare for the end of the year holidays, it feels that if I don't slow down, just a bit, it will fly by without me being able to enjoy any of it. How quickly it can change from a magical to stressful. I want to sit back and relax and enjoy the beauty of it all, but the nagging feeling of all the "stuff" that has to get done, can be overwhelming.

So what are the things you do to keep yourself engaged in the spirit of winter? How do you find balance in all the holiday hustle and bustle?

Anyone who posts a comment this week will be entered in a special drawing on Sunday.... More details to come.... stay well.

South End Holiday Hop Artist: Jackie Mangione

2010-12-05T20:51:00.000-05:00

Shop Local! Shop Hand Made. Support the ARTS!

South End Holiday Hop!

December 10,11,12

Throughout the South End of Burlington Vermont

4th Annual South End Holiday Hop. Artist Market and Open Studio. Shop local, support your community, see your neighbors and buy amazing wonderful goods for all your holiday needs.

Location: All along Pine Stree, starting at Maple St. going past The Soda Plant, from the top of Kilburn and St. Paul including Howard St. all the way down to Lake Side

Burlington

Burlington,

Friday: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Sun:12:00 pm - 4:00 pm

While you are out doing your Holiday Hop, make sure you stop by the Soda Plant to check out the work of my dear friend and neighbor, Jackie Mangione. Jackie has a tremenous joie de vie, that is embedded in her work and her personality. She is a joy to know and a huge supporter of the South End Art scene.

Abundance

Jackie is a fantastic painter and teacher. Her recent passions in art includes the use of acrylic and watercolor paints to bring out the vibrancy of colors. She paints with a quest for detailed brushstrokes in her work. As of late, she has been painting the Burlington skyline, wild and native birds of Vermont. She is also inspired by lesser recognized great artists of the 18th century, Jean Honore Fragonard.

Mountain Flurries

Hope to see you out and about this weekend! Happy Hopping!

SMALL WORKS Opening Reception @ SPACE GALLERY 12/3

2010-11-30T23:05:00.000-05:00

December 3-January 29: “Small Works” @ the SPACE GALLERY on PINE STREET, in BURLINGTON, VT.

The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery will unveil the second edition of our ‘Small Works’ exhibit on Friday, December 3rd with a opening reception from 5-9 pm. Expect an array of artwork 12″ or smaller in size. Last year’s show proved influential in creating awareness of the many local talents in and around Burlington. Perfectly sized for holiday gifts.

Kristen Richland- Traffic day

...and, you know who will be there for the opening on FRIDAY.... moi! ......and you should know i have pulled some of my favorite little pieces together to hang in the show...(six altogether, some very new... ) and you should also know that there are some fabulous local artists showing their work in this show... like KRISTIN RICHLAND... who creates whimsical and fantastical little paintings of divine creatures. ( something that i would never, in a million years be talented enough to do!) Kristen works at Artist's Medium, which is a terrific locally owner art supply shop, here in williston. She is a tremendously giving person, who is full of joy and life. I love her point of view fantastically creative mind. Check out her work at her website... and you should stop by on friday at the SPACE gallery to see her stuff live and in person. and say hi to me, because you know i'll be there. it is the 1st friday of the month. so that means... BURLINGTON art walk. game on, art fans.

Queen City Craft

2010-11-15T21:47:00.000-05:00

What are you doing this Saturday?

Me, I'll be shopping at the Queen City Craft Bazaar. Life and scheduling has gotten in the way of me selling my wares at this bi-annual craft show, but I still have a few hours on Saturday to check out some of the best indie crafters from across the state.

John Brickles

all my favorites will be there...

boda.boda

Happy Fantastic Designs

Strange Dolls

New Duds

Stacie Mincher Designs

Bianchi Studio

Jess Graham Studio

and about 20 other fantastic artisans and crafters!

Don't miss it. You won't be disappointed.

2010 Holiday Queen City Craft Bazaar

Robot Dinosaurs

Saturday November 20th

10am-5pm

Union Station at 1 Main St. Burlington VT

Free Parking (in lot next to building)

Free Admission!

Jess Graham

The Queen City Craft Bazaar - Vermont's Premiere Alternative Craft Fair is an indie craft fair showcasing unique handmade goods from local crafters, designers, and artists. Find out more about this event and many of the artists at http://queencitycraft.blogspot.com/

Brush Strokes

2010-11-14T10:38:00.000-05:00

There is something incredible about being able to witness the emergence of a butterfly from it's cocoon. The process is slow and full of anticipation. When the creature finally breaks free of it's shell that it is has transformed all it's cells and pure being into something complete different and awe-inspiring. Not that the caterpillar is not a beautiful thing. That stage of the insect's life is equally as important. But, I think it is the dramatic change into flight that is so compelling and remarkable to me.

I have had the unique opportunity to watch a similar transformation in a dear friend. She has pushed through huge life lessons to emerge transformed and inspired. I have know Heather Brush since we were 15. She has always been a talented artist and writer to me. Somehow, over the years, Circumstance obscured these parts of her being from her daily life. A few years ago, she stood at a crossroads without much of a road map and had to rely on her own sense of self, her own inner bearing to start the long road back her inner artist. She has finally arrived at her destination, emerged from the shell had created around her. And I am so proud of her achievement. She inspires me daily.

Heather lives outside Roanoke, Va with her two kids. She was been busy the past few months creating a body of work to show in a new gallery: The Artisan Center along the Crooked Road. The gallery has yet to officially open, but yesterday, she sold her first piece! It is an amazing feeling, the first time someone hands you money for a work of art. It's inspiring and empowering when some one recognizes your accomplishment in such a way. Congratulations Heather on your success!

Here's to bigger and better milestones!

Don't dream it, Be it!

Shake out those new wings and fly.

You can learn more about Heather and her beautiful mixed media works at: http://heathersbrushstrokes.wordpress.com/

Art and Hours

2010-11-07T12:25:00.000-05:00

If you missed the reception for What Remains at Seminary Arts, but you still want to see the show, don't fret. You can swing by any time it's open for classes which is:

Tues 3:30 to 8 pm

Wed 2:30 to 5 pm

Thurs 3:00 to 8 pm

Saturday 10 am to 2pm

or by appointment (802) 253-8790

To be honest, I am a bit overwhelmed by the tremendous response the show has had already. It has gotten quite a bit of press and I have sold quite a few pieces already. I am so grateful for all the people who have helped me get to this point. I could not have done this without any of you.

Jim and I went out this past Friday to check out the Art Walk in Downtown Burlington. If you are not familiar with this. Many businesses and galleries open their doors to the public on the 1st Friday of the month to celebrate the art exhibition they are showing. The Art Map Burlington, prints a great monthly guide to exhibition in and around Burlington. They also have an informative website with links to different artists blogs/websites. I am not an art critic so I won't even attempt to judge any show. I will leave that those who are far better versed and eloquent than me. I only have my opinions and observations, so I will share those with you.

Our first stop was The SPACE gallery, to see their new show: Make Art, Repeat. It was great to see Christy and other artists in the show at their opening reception. I'm always impressed by Ashley Roark's shadow and light work. This installation did not fail to astound me. The work seems simple, she creates patterns with pins, (and now large nails) in the wall, but the effect when she applies directional light is wonderful. It simply needs to be experienced to be understood,

Tarrah Krajnak

Then we headed downtown, in search of dinner and more art. Following the recommendation of a friend we saw at the SPACE gallery, we stopped at the Firehouse Gallery. We checked out two exhibits there: Homunculus and An Inch of dust.

Homunculus, by UVM professor, Steven Budingtonn is a Dali-like exploration of the human body and technology. A fantastical interweaving of fleshy parts, i-pods, artificial hearts and cosmetic surgery. Beautiful, yet slightly gory and monstrous, his painting and drawing are surrealistic and provocative.

On the second floor we saw An Inch of Dust by Tarrah Krajnak, who also teaches at UVM. Krajnak takes archived photos and projects them onto sculptural paper pieces and then re-photographs them. The result is a distorted image laced in mystery and memory.

Jon Gregg

Our last stop was at the Amy E. Tarrant Gallery, where we saw the work of Vermont artist Jon Gregg.This show, simply titled “Recent Works on Paper”, consists of 50 works of oil pastels on paper, all untitled. His work is very moody and abstract. Landscapes, villages, horses and come into view through his scratchy silhouettes of images that look more like paintings than drawings.

Ghost Stories-Mixed Media Shrine Workshop at Seminary Arts

2010-10-24T11:59:00.000-04:00

Ghost Stories-

Creating Mixed Media Shrines from found objects

Saturday October 30^th 9 am to 4 pm

Seminary Arts in the Center

Waterbury Center, VT

Workshop fee: $75 (plus small materials fee)

Whether it’s an old family photo or grandmother’s rocking chair, we’ve all felt the presence of someone long gone when we encounter their things - the imprint they leave behind after possessing an object for a long period of time…the aftereffects that are left behind in and around the objects of our daily lives. It may be just a fleeting memory, a faint electric impulse that jolts us into thinking, into feeling that person’s wordless presence, but it is there. The ghost of a person, left behind in the yellowed paper, the cracked leather, the worm-eaten wood.

These objects, these things once had owners. They were bought and sold, made and broken. Some of them were kept and treasured, while others were forgotten in attics. Each has a story to tell, whether it is in the voice of young girl or the whisper of an old woman.

This workshop will lead you through the process of creating a unique work of art from artifacts. You will learn to gleam the story from found objects and create a unique work of art. Explore your own imagination to find the ghost in old things and bring forth their tales in a 3 dimensional form.

Materials

The most important thing you bring is a hinged, closeable box, like a cigar box, jewelry box, old tin box or something similar- the top should be able to stay open. This will be the foundation for your shrine, so make sure it is something you are willing to work with.

The rest is the filler:

Old photos, something personal to you or complete strangers, just some that strike you. (Make color copies of your old photos at Staples if you don’t want to alter the originials)

Ephemera, Old photos, postcards, cards, letters, etc.

Fabric, lace, ribbon, trim you find interesting –

Small picture frames, found objects, like clock parts, gears, typewriter parts.

Small figurines, dolls parts, game pieces, toys, household items, etc. Bring things that you are drawn too.

Also bring:

Any Acrylic pants you might want to use

Paint Brushes (a couple small detail brushes, and some cheap brushes (1/2 inch to 1 inch in size)

Basic Tools like pliers, scissors

What Remains -October 22 to November 20 - One woman show in Waterbury Center

2010-10-22T23:17:00.000-04:00

I was able to take some pictures of the exhibition this afternoon as the sun was setting. The natural light the main room where my work is hanging is simply wonderful. The old seminary building is the perfect location for me to display my 1st ever solo show. I am so grateful to Mame for encouraging me to put this together and to my friends and family who have supported me and cheered me on through this process. I am overjoyed with how great the space looks. The photos don't do it justice. You will just have to swing by to take a peak.

The Show is Hung!

2010-10-20T23:38:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I went over to Waterbury Center to hang my solo art exhibition: What Remains.

34 pieces: assemblages of various sizes, mixed media collage, and altered books. Almost all of them new work.

I have put together other art exhibitions and been involved in group shows, but this endeavor is my 1st solo show. I feel like I am growing up as an artist. Perhaps it's a coming into my own.

I have to admit that it's a bit scary to put yourself out there and exhilarating as well.

I've been working hard at getting the word out about the show. Writing press releases, making postcards, tweeting, and talking it up on Facebook. Now, with it only three days away, I have no idea of what to expect. I don't know how many people will make the trek to Waterbury Center to celebrate achievement with me on Saturday.

I'm headed back there tomorrow night, after work, to move things around a little and start tagging everything. I've still have a ton of stuff to do, but feel so very accomplished at this point. And so very thankful for all the people who have supported me and cheered me on. This is something that I have pushed myself to do, but could not have gotten here without all of you.

So, in this quite moment, before settling off to slumber I thank you for that. And, reflect on what it is all about.

The one thing I know, the one thing my art is reflective of, is the reality that "this moment" is fleeting. That no matter how hard I try to hold on to it, Sunday will be here sooner than I know. So, to live each moment, with fullness without regrets is all I can do. Embrace the now, for tomorrow will be only memories..... but great memories that I will have for a lifetime.

Michael deMeng comes to VT!

2010-10-11T10:55:00.000-04:00

(finally... yeah!!!!)

About two years ago, I drove down to Topsfield MA, to take some classes with Michael deMeng at Absolutely Everything. What happened to me that weekend was equivalent to taking a can opener to the top of my head and just cranking away. It was the catalyst to the art that I am making now. The point of no return. The beginning of my transformation.

Now fast forward to the present, I have my work up at the S.P.A.C.E. gallery and opening my debut Art Exhibition,, "What Remains" in about 2 weeks. There are so many opportunities are unfolding in so many strange and wondrous ways. And for the icing on the cake, Michael is teaching here, this weekend in Vermont! and only 15 minutes from my house at Shelburne Arts Center! In addition to teaching to classes, Pandora's Box and Angels and Demons, he is showing some of his recent work in an Exhibition in the SAC gallery. How's that for luck. I am so excited to be taking a class with him again. I can't imagine where this weekend will end up taking me creatively. We will just have to see.

I know there are some spots open for his class, contact SAC @ (802) 985-3648 for more info or check Michael's website for details. He's a terrific teacher, with a great sense of humor and creative insight. He is also a huge inspiration to me as well as a lot of other mixed media artists I know. If you get a chance to swing down to Shelburne, stop by the reception on Friday Night from 5-8pm, check out Michael's magical assemblages and say hi! It's going to be a ton of fun!

What Remains - Opening Reception October 23rd

2010-10-03T23:55:00.000-04:00

The few last month has been so productive for me. I feel like I have finally hit my slipstream and getting into the flow of it all. I am so blessed to be able to be moving forward this way, creating art almost everyday. Art that seems to touch people deeply and personally.

Now it is October. The leaves have started to fall and the days grow colder and shorter.Halloween is right around the corner and I am reminded that this is the time when many people believe that the veil between the living and the dead is the thinnest. We allow ourselves to be spooked and to think of ghostly things in this darkening time of the year.

So it is auspicious that I am a part of two very "haunting" shows. The The Art of Horror, which opened this Friday, October 1. The reception, which was part of the Burlington Art Walk, was simply terrific. I met so many wonderful people and had an amazing time! Thank you Beth, Kevin and Christy for putting together this event.

And....

In just about 20 days, I will be hanging my own work at Seminary Arts in Waterbury Center. The show is called, "What Remains" and is a collection of work from the past two years that deals with the essences, the aftereffects that are left behind, in and around the objects of our daily lives. The things that I pull together to create my art is "What remains." The stories I weave together are ghost stories, moments that are remembered if only in our dreams and vague recollections.

Whether it’s an old family photo or grandmother’s rocking chair, we’ve all felt the presence of someone long gone when we encounter their things - the imprint they leave behind after possessing an object for a long period of time. It may be just a fleeting memory, a faint electric impulse that jolts us into thinking, into feeling that person’s wordless presence, but it is there. The ghost of a person, left behind in the yellowed paper, the cracked leather, the worm-eaten wood…

By sifting through these disparate objects, I have found the compatible bits and pieces of others’ lives and woven their faint and ancient energies together until they sing together in one voice. These new pieces not only speak to the sadness of these lost and forgotten things, but they remind us that their owners have been lost and forgotten as well.

And if them, what of us?

Join me on October 23rd as we celebrate the past and the future and where "when lingers" at Seminary Arts in the Center. I will be posting more info about the show and the workshop I am going to be teaching on October 30th. Stay tuned....