Darla Kirchner Designs, LLC

Please visit my NEW website

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:08:00 +0000

Hi All! I have developed a new website for all my art, designs, classes and much more.

Please come and visit me here

http://www.darlakirchner.com/

You can also find me on twitter at http://twitter.com/DK_Designs

On facebook at http://www.facebook.com/darlakirchnerdesigns

On Pinterest at http://pinterest.com/darlakirchner/

or find me on Tumblr at http://dkdesignsllc.tumblr.com/

I hope to see you at my new home (so to speak) soon!

Take care,

Darla

May flowers

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Thu, 05 May 2011 13:34:00 +0000

May flowers...I do see them everywhere!

With all the rain here in SW Ohio, the flowers are thriving.

"Blossoms" Acrylic on canvas Painting Party Class.
Call Darla for details!

Though all the extra seasonal rain has kept me indoors.

I find myself pushing my creative side to paint and play with my photographs more.

A good thing...Sigh.

"White Iris" Photo Art available in print, canvas, panels.
Contact Darla for details.

However when I was able to get out and take a few shots, I got lucky

and wanted to share a few with you.

"Stargazer" Photo Art. Available in prints, panels and canvas.
Contact Darla for details.

Happy May everyone!

Darla

Hello Spring!

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 13:55:00 +0000

Hello Friends and hello Spring!

Sorry I haven’t been in for a little while. I took Spring Cleaning to a whole new level and decided to work on a few things…

First I started to redo my business plan…Yikes!…I know! Crazy! A constant work in progress!

Darla Kirchner Designs, LLC

Business Plan -2011

That lead to reworking my website and then my blog. Which lead to lots and lots of research. Am I making you tired yet?

Be right back…out of coffee...

With my new found clarity, I began a body of meaningful pieces. Some are what I love...one is Coffee and then there is chocolate…ah. ADD moment...I will more of that soon.

Back to focus…

I promise to update you here with my new post while I am preparing my shiny new home. You are always welcome to drop by as I settle into my new home. It is truly is like a moving into a new home. A little overwhelming…but good for me too! Let me know your thoughts!

http://www.darlakirchner.com

I better get back to work. Then I REALLY need to do some spring cleaning in my actual home and studio...Lots of cobwebs there!

Talk soon,

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 13:14:00 +0000

E. Roosevelt stated..."The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams". I believe!

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 13:11:00 +0000

Had a wonderful class last night. Turned our snowy night into a warm beach. All with paint, good company and popcorn!

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 16:07:00 +0000

Wearing lots of hats today! Working on some special designs today; a Wedding invitation, Christening gift for a special baby boy and a corporate design project too.

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:08:00 +0000

Excited to have my Artsy girlfriends come over to paint and play today! Happy dance!

Creativity for Cabin Fever

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 03:53:00 +0000

I love art!

Composition, brush strokes of paints, Discovering new tools...and canvas.

Landscape Beginning Acrylic 2 hour Painting workshop

I love to learn, to read and create.

And I love to share my passion with other creative souls.

So I do.

Floral beginning acrylic 2 hour painting workshop

Do you like art? Playing with paint? Learning about your inner artist?

Join me in a workshop!

Children's Mini Mosaic Masterpiece workshop

Visit my calendar tab of upcoming Workshops.

Let's get creative...and cure that cabin fever!

Do you have another project idea in mind? Share it with me!

Have a creative day!

~ Darla

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 17:26:00 +0000

I am all ears for everything Ingrid Michaelson sings. What music are you listening to today?

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 18:12:00 +0000

Come and join us at our monthly Arts Council Meeting! Tonight our guest speaker is Malinda Hartong of Hartong Digital Media. Lot's of creative things happing in YOUR neighborhood! For more info. www.artscouncilwcl.com

And the winner is.....Honeysuckle Pink!

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 23:56:00 +0000

I see lots of Pink, rose, magenta, blush
and now Honeysuckle too!

I had my "aha moment" a few days ago. Since then I have been researching the Internet, my magazines, books etc. to get ideas to create some concept/design boards. Every artist and designer needs inspiration, honestly it is a very rare moment when the stars are aliened and beautiful art/design just flows with out planning.

So in my research to create concept boards around Spring trends and Mom's day and I found

Pink.

http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/colors/pink-decorating-ideas

This powerful punch of color is everywhere!

http://www.pantone.com/

If you know me well you would know I am not a pink girl.
I rarely wear it, perhaps when I actually have lipstick on. And the only place in my home that has PINK is in my daughters room.

Pantone states “In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®.

pantone.com

I have to say this Pink trend is growing on me.

I am ready for some uplifting spirits. If this color chases away the winter blues then bring on the blush!

I could even wear it (in small does) or even add a pink pillow in the family room too.

This adorable pink rose pillow is perfect for a girly room with silver and white...ooh.

What are your thoughts on the color for 2011? Please share...I would love to hear!

Have a rosy day!~ Darla

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 22:11:00 +0000

Happy Valentine's Day from Darla Kirchner Designs!

Happy Valentine's Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 22:07:00 +0000

Just a little something warm & sweet...from

me to you!

I hope your Valentine's Day is

warm, wonderful and filled with lots of love.

xoxo, Darla

A Love Story

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:06:00 +0000

I love a Love Story...

Recently a client commissioned me for a very special event. Her dad was getting married. She and her sister were told not to bring gifts, but...She thought of me.

What do you give someone who really doesn't need anything? Something special to commerate a very special event? This is why I love what I do too!

12 x 12 Mixed Media on canvas Framed. Contact Studio for details.

The three of us met and brainstormed ideas, colors options and here is the result. I entwined each of the families names, their wedding date, the couples names and mixed in hearts of course!

I was excited to receive the nicest email today from my client stating "Everyone loved the gift!". It made my day so I wanted to share. I do love a love story!

I think I have my Valentines Day gift for my hubby....what about you?

Take care,

~ Darla

A glimse into my happy place

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 16:57:00 +0000

Hello there...Happy February!

It is cold here...snowy, gray and challenging to find inspiration.

So, I thought I would share with you a glimpse into my happy place.

Today Jack Frost took a deep breath and blew HARD. Much of the center of the country is under a weather storm.
Here in SW Ohio we woke up to ice! Yippee!

I love the snow...ice not so much. Beautiful to look at, not to drive or walk on.

So I thought I would share with you a piece I created for one of my classes. I needed some inspiration and saw it propped on my filing cabinet in my office. Sigh.

It was pretty easy to paint mostly because I love the water.

Paint what you love...

Seascape Acyclic painting on 9 x 12 Canvas board See Classes Tab for Workshop details!

In fact I am pretending to be there now. Warm and sunny with a nice breeze. The soft sand between my toes.
This is one of my favorite happy places.

Where is yours?

I dream I am there walking with my husband as the kids chase our dog Wrigley. A mid morning stroll. Then I will go back to my studio ( that overlooks the water of course) and paint.

A little slice of Heaven. Hey a girl can dream....it doesn't have to be a big slice.

Dreaming BIG today...I feel warmer already!

~ xoxo Darla

A quiet moment with Mother Nature

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:43:00 +0000

Hi there...

Is is as could where you are? Here in Ohio Mother Nature layed a thick blanket of fresh snow. Then Jack Frost blew in overnight. Before it hit a balmy 10 degrees, I grabbed my camera and braved the great outdoors. Well at least to my back yard! It was refreshing to grab some creative moments with mother nature.

And so quiet...

I hope I captured a little of the still...Peaceful...beauty. Even when she is asleep, mother nature still shines. Looks like new inspiration to me. I am thinking of "Warm Winter Whites". What do you think?

I am off to my painting demonstration today. Wish me luck! If you are in the area, drop by Michael's in Mason off Field's Ertle. I will be there with my art bag of goodies from 12-4.

Enjoy your weekend...and stay warm.

~ Darla

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 20:50:00 +0000

is working on connecting all my networks. Then on to updating new workshop classes. Wish me luck:)

A new year...Yes I am ready!

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 02:30:00 +0000

Hi, Happy New Year!

I do love a clean fresh slate and shiny new year to begin...create...learn...grow!

A sometimes sparkly studio...and tidy home (as much as that can be with a family of 5).

But mostly a clear head and honest heart.

So in order for me to start the "New" year I have to say goodbye to 2010. Blogging, journals and learning from other fabulous artist have helped me grow last year. It has been tough, scary, creative, tiring, financially stressful and overall challenging year.

"Transition" was the word for 2010.

I am happily walking into January with a clearer head. I have to admit I was a little afraid to share that it is time...to completely move away from creating hand painted ceramics.

Typing it makes it "official".

It is time to move on for so many reason. But mostly because I missed all the other art and design mediums. I missed getting my hands dirty with paint and glue, using my camera and the excitement of the creative learning process...

So now that the holiday decorations are boxed away, my studio ready for some new art and my office getting prepared for the new year...I see the light.

A forever "half full" kind of girl, I REALLY do see it. And it looks like a beautiful new canvas begging me to play, paint, textures and...oh...perhaps collage!

So my word for 2011 is "Love"

I promise to share much more the next time we talk. Bear with me as I finish up the last of my "cleaning". I guess it is all part of my creative process. I think, plan and dream while I clean. The creative wheel is starting to move and I have lot of ideas to share with you.

It's going to be a fun year...be back soon!

~Darla

Reflections of 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:40:00 +0000

So as the year comes to an end, I took a little time to reflect on this year's events.

I have much to be grateful for....

My hard work and creative strides have resulted in some large accomplishments.

Transitioning my focus from functional ceramics back to art and design has been quite an undertaking.

And yes, stressful on my family.

Always a "half full" kind of girl...I see the light! And yes, the new year looks bright.

Finding a focus through my camera again and journaling this year has been a such a gift!

I have always said my children are my true "masterpieces".

Capturing their moments this year has been a treasure.

Capturing a wonderful moment in South Haven, Michigan this summer

So I celebrate them in every holiday card I create. I am excited to share this years design!

Ta Da!

5 x 7 Holiday Card by Darla Kirchner Designs

Thank you to my children, my supportive husband and family.

It is because of your support that I can be a creative soul and follow my passion.

Happy Holidays and here's to a bright new year filled with promise and possibilities!

Darla

Creative Stocking ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 02:26:00 +0000

Some Creative Stationery for

your stockings!

Stationery card sets of 4

"McHaley's Garden" Note card set of 4 assorted $4.95
Set of 8 assorted cards $7.95

Stationery Card set of 8

"Courage" Note card set of 4 assorted $4.95
Set of 8 assorted $7.95

Stationery Card Gift set w/pen

Mon Petite Amie Girlfriend Stationery Gift Set of 4 cards/pen $7.95

Notepad sets

Boho Notepad (50 sheets) with pen set $7.95

Art Cards

"Be True" Art Card fits a standard 5 x 7 frame! $4.95 each

Hurry while supplies last!

(Supplies are limited)

Stock up on creative stocking stuffers, Teacher gifts, hostess gifts and more.

Email us today to place your order at sales@darlakirchner.com.

We accept Visa and Master Card. Shipping throughout the USA, or local pick up available.

Feel free to contact the studio at sales@darlakirchner.com for available stock.

Happy shopping!

Darla

The Holiday party isn't over...just beginning!

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 22:13:00 +0000

So my annual Holiday Studio Party was over the weekend...sigh.

Such sweat and time energy goes into preparing for these events. It is a little crazy beforehand, but so worth it! The gallery was hung with all our new collections. The studio filled with friends, clients and guests.
Seasonal yummy treats, beverages and holiday music set the tone nicely.

My fabulous clients!

View from the new gallery!

Couldn't come, no worries! The studio is open by appointment and on Saturdays

from 9:00-1:00pm now through December 18th.

New Courage Collection, perfect inspirational gifts for any of life's challenges

Admirers of new Jewelry Art samples.

So now I am happily working on holiday orders. Since I have shifted my focus from hand painted ceramics to mixed medium, paintings and creative gifts I can extend my holiday order dates. Yippee!

New "Wisdom" Collection original mixed medium available in Canvas, Art Panels, Prints and Stationery

Ever popular...Our "Wine about It" Collection is sure to be on your seasonal gift giving list!
Wine stationery makes great hostess gifts!

The studio is filled with creative gifts for all your seasonal gift giving. Many ready to go in adorable packaging too! The Mistletoe Market area has great deals on remaining ceramics, gift items, ornaments and stationery too. Stock up while supplies last!

New "Mon petite amie" Girlfriend Collection, great creative gifts for all the girls in your life!

New "Bohemian Spirit" Collection of fresh art. Great for the happy inspirations for
your youthful side. Personalization available

Named after my daughter, McHaley's Garden collection is fresh, fun and just happy. Like her!

Contact the studio for your seasonal, personalized and custom gifts today!

513.777.ARTS (2787) or sales@darlakirchner.com

I am so THANKFUL to be able to share my passion...

Creating art and creative gifts to define you is what we do!

Happy Turkey day everyone!

Darla

Preparing for the Holiday's, Open Studio

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 13:22:00 +0000

Amazing how it seems that it is Halloween then it jumps to the holidays?

I feel like we just hit the fast forward button and it is here! Since that never changes, I am hustling to prepare for my Holiday Open House this weekend.

You are invited!

Contact studio for details and directions at 513. 777.2787

Our Mistletoe Market will be open for all your holiday gift giving! Hurry while supplies last!

So come and join me for some holiday cheer, shopping and see our new introductions too!

I am too excited to show you are

NEW Jewelry Art Collection!

As always, thank you for choosing us for your creative gift needs!

Darla

P.S. ~ Remember we ship anywhere in the USA!

My 11 year old masterpiece

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 04:21:00 +0000

My baby, McHaley turned 11 years old the other day.

Hard to imagine that she came into the world premature and only weighing 4 pounds.

Now she is beautiful, almost as tall as I and an amazing person.

Our little princess

Oh and did I mention her heart? Okay, I will stop bragging.

She is a joy and I cherish every second we spend cuddling or playing pretend beauty day.

Created for my Mother's day gift to myself

Happy Birthday to my youngest "Masterpiece". You know how much I love you.

Always,

Mom

What a Spooktackular weekend!

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:52:00 +0000

Happy Post-Halloween!

I hope yours was "boo-tifull". It was most a perfect weekend here in Ohio.

Crisp and clear days filled with an abundance of treats

The weekend began Friday downtown with my dear friend Pattie.

We sat up our show for "Final Friday" in her studio at the Pendleton Art Center.

After delivering our "Pimp out your Pumpkin" for their contest we headed to the Art Museum for some creative girlfriend time.
Shared a delightful lunch and toured the Thomas Gainsborough and the Modern Woman Until 01/02/11Rouchenburg
AND the Wedded Perfection: Two Centuries of Wedding Gowns Until 01/30/11 exhibits.

Both truly amazing exhibits and a blissful way to "research".

Some of the creative pumpkin's we saw...

Title: "Thanks, Mr. C". Tom Bosley, Happy Days TV dad passed on October 19, 2010
after battling lung. Pearl is the color for Lung Cancer. Ironic that my dad is living with the same disease.
I dedicate this pumpkin in honor of his courage.

Patties Pumpkin theme "the volcano eruption in Iceland".
Ah to be stranded in Paris...

The Reds new mascots

How Pumpkin pie is made...hilarious!

Tricker treaters eager to receive their goodies

Pieces with Pattie's beautiful sculpture

Hanging of Wine Collection as a guest artist in Pattie Byron Studio's

I want to thank Pattie for allowing me to be a guest artist in her studio. If you are looking for amazing sculpture for yourself or as a gift I highly recommend her pieces!

For more information go to http://www.pattiebyron.com

I hope your Halloween was warm and wonderful!

~ Darla

Courage

noreply@blogger.com (Darla Kirchner) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 14:40:00 +0000

Webster's defines "Courage" as:

Mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.

"Courage" Mixed acrylic piece.
Available in print, canvas and stationery. E-mail us for details

I know courage well...my parents and dear friends are "Courage"s defined.

This month we know as breast cancer awareness.

My mom was diagnosed with "it" over five years ago. We celebrate as she is in remission.
Though it has taught my sister and I to take it seriously and get regular testing.

"Heart" mixed acrylic piece.
Available in pint, canvas and stationery. Email us for details

Both my parents were smokers.
It looked so glamours when we were kids to watch them or the beautiful actors on the TV.
I remember my sister and I pretending one day in the cold morning air with candy imitations. One of the neighbors saw us and told my mom. It's a memory, but I remember knowing then that I would never smoke.
I saw it's ugly hold on them and am thankful when they finally broke free of it's steel like grip.

When my Dad was diagnosed in the spring of 2009 with stage 4 lung cancer, we were all heart broken. Dad was a baker working with flour everyday for most of his career. Combined with smoking had developed CPOD and has been living with it for many years.

"Learn" Mixed acrylic piece.
Available in print, canvas and stationery. E-mail us for details.

As with my family and dear 'Couragous" friends, we cherish each day.

It has breathed renewed life into our commitments and priorities.
I find my passion to express and relate is by creating.
All of my works and collections are apart of me and "Courage" is the dearest.
The colors chosen in this initial works represent the different cancers that affect my family and friends today.
The words, quotes and art were carefully choosen to inspire all living with "it" to remember their strength, grace and wisdom.

"My friend" Mixed acrylic piece.
Available in print, canvas and stationery. E-mail us for details!

Pink: Breast, Black: Melanoma, White/pearl: Lung and Lavender for all cancers.

I pray for a cure for all families and people living with cancer and hope this
collection will help remind them along the jouney that they are not alone.

I love you Mom & Dad with all my heart.
Thanks to my dear friend, Ms. P. for asking me to share.
I am humbled by all their courage.

xoxo, Darla