Persnickety Chick

Getting down to the "Nitty Gritty"

2012-01-14T12:52:00.000-08:00

It's funny to me that when I take an inventory of my life as far as where it stands in it's decorative form, my tendency as an interior decorator is to be attracted to the pure pretty simplicity of white, white and more white. I wonder that that may just seem so boring but I realized it does play into my being an artist in that I see the world (and in the case the walls and surfaces of my house) as a blank canvas. The color to come secondary/complimentary to the white is usually black and then last but not least come the addition of natural earthy colors and textures. My art pieces however are usually overflowing with the bright reds, spectacular golds and vibrant blues of an old side show or the landscape of a magical "Wonderland" full of color, sights and sounds. Why that is, I can't say but I realize that one is not complete without the other and both are beautiful in their own right.

Creating outside my usual tendency and within the realms of black and white was a bit of a challenge for me (and you will see that I couldn't resist throwing in just a smidge of color on this one; teehee). Of course, it helps when you have fabulous images to play with.

Thanks to my dear friend, Marsha of Tumble Fish Studio for this awesome collection of "Nitty Gritty" fun!

2011-12-26T15:40:00.000-08:00

With the weekend's festivities over and my dear cousin put safely on a flight back home to the West Coast, I opted for some quiet, creative time for myself. After spending so much time reminiscing in the past few days, I suppose I was feeling a bit nostalgic about my childhood. I think that's why this page created itself as it did. The adorable little lady featured is, alas, not me but I supposed I could live for a moment vicariously through her and my friend gets a special surprise out of it, as well.


Lil' Luna Moth and her pet owl.

For full credits to this piece, check out my gallery here.

Bzzz Bzzz Bzzzz!!!!!

2011-12-13T06:55:00.000-08:00

We have been busy busy little bees here in my household this past couple of weeks.

Here's what I've been up to:

I started about a month ago scouring local thrift stores for articles of clothing that I might transform into more period appropriate (1850's) attire for this year's Christmas in Little Falls celebration. This year will mark the first time any of us dressed up in Dickens' style but we are hoping to start a trend that will take off in the years to come. I created costumes for all of us and spent no more than maybe $30.00. I'm so proud of how well they all turned out; most accomplished were our straw bonnets I made from simple inexpensive hats, scrap fabrics and trims. UPCYCLING ROCKS!!

Things have also been a bit hectic around here getting adjusted to having a new member of the family. Losing our sweet Topper was such a traumatic experience and some days I honestly feel that I will never fully get over it but also realized that there is enough love to go around and room still left in our hearts for another. We saw this sweet face and could not resist . . .

Despite the craziness, I have managed to get some creating done. I really love how both of these pieces turned out. I see my art evolving and changing and I honestly start to think that maybe there are others out there who might enjoy my pieces as I do. I have had a few inquiries by people looking to buy prints of my artwork and I wonder if I might give it a go and see what happens.

Anyhoo!!! Here are my latest pieces; the first two created "just because", the third to highlight Tumble Fish Studios' latest and greatest kit.

Greta wasn't about to let anyone "STEAL THE SHOW"


I call this the "CIRQUE DU SOULEIL"

And now for a little fun at my very own expense . . .

For an explanation of this crazy colorful concoction, see my gallery here.

Tis the Season . . .

2011-11-22T17:11:00.000-08:00

And Tumble Fish Studio has THREE

(yes, you heard me right three!) new kits in the shoppe just for the occasion.

HERE

The sadness of the incomplete, the sadness that is often Life, but should never be Art. (E. M. Forster)

2011-11-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to say that I am taking a little break from my art for a bit . . .
I have some healing and sorting through to do before I might be ready to create again. I can't hardly tell which end is up and where I am right now. We had to make the heart-wrenching decision to say goodbye to our beloved dog whom we considered to be not only a member of the family but one of the true highlights of our lives. I can't hardly recall a single memory that he isn't in nor is there a single corner in my house that does not remind me of him; nearly every thought that comes to mind now finds its way connected to his memory. We all miss him so terribly!

I created this just three days before that fateful day. A new kit was going to be released and I just knew that I wanted to make up something special to commemorate how much I love being with my doggy. Time spent with him is "the best of all". Though I know it seems crazy, it was kind of my way of showing my love for him and what he had been going through. I just felt so awful that he had been so sick and none of us (us or the vet) could figure out what was wrong and how to make it better. We all thought we were going to get through it and he was on his way to being back to his sweet little ole self. It was a complete shock when we found out there was no hope left and yet I realized something inside of me must have known. I feel sad when I look upon this piece right now but I know in time I will be so glad that I created it.

I dedicate this post in loving memory of my Topper dog . . .

Almost back to normal but then again . . .

2011-10-06T19:34:00.000-07:00

What exactly is normal?! And do I really want to be just normal?! Heehee . . .
What I mean to say is that although it's not quite there (at least to me) I have done some work on getting my blog back to the more artsy theme it was and though I have some skewing to do, I think this will suffice for a bit.
Be back soon to share some more!

2011-10-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

Well, as you can "plainly" (quite literally) see, there have been some unforseen changes to my blog. A simple case of pushing upon a prompt without realizing I had done so and here we have it . . .

While I intend to get back in here at a later date and gussy it back up to look more like a creative individual inhabits this portion of cyber-space, for now, I simply had to post something. It has been far too long (shame on me) and I have much to share on the creative front with you.

Here's what Ive been up since the last . . .

"For the Birds"

This layout is a stand against something I am currently very vested in.
It's something I think is absolutely "for the birds" and interestingly enough with a little compare and contrast research I discovered that the origin of this phrase in fact draws a direct correlation to what I'm fighting against.

Here it is:
Before the advent of cars, one could see and smell the "emissions" of horse drawn carriages in New York. Since there was no way of controlling these emissions, they (or the undigested oats in them) served to nourish a large population of English sparrows. If you said that something was for the birds, you’re politely saying that it is horse crap.

Hydro-fracking threatens our environment, our health and quite literally our right to even live and breathe. The entire idea is most assuredly a load of crap!

"I keep dreaming about a better world where profit does not take precedence over human rights and human life!"-Trudi Styler (actor, producer, director, yogi, wife, mother)

"The Show of Contradiction"

As is always the case for me, with Halloween fast approaching, there appears to be a bitty part of me that pitter-patters with excitement! It isn't the candy and it isn't the thought of dressing up but rather the influx of really really morbidly, deviantly, cool kits! I think I've always had a little thing for the Gothic and the creepy, maybe even "Slightly Sinister". (a little clue of sorts, teehee)

Below are some of my Halloween inspired, layouts of a more creepy nature . . .
All created with some of the latest and greatest of Tumble Fish Studios' designs!

"Himrod's Spirits Shoppe"

Elvira was not your typical woman nor was Himrod’s your typical shoppe.

"One Giant Headache"

This little "skinny" Minnie was created for the Spooky Skinny challenge in this month's issue of the Deviant Muse. If you haven't had the chance yet, I would swing by DS and get your copy. Simply click on this link HERE. This month's artist of choice/muse is one of my ghoulish favorites!!

Be sure to visit my gallery for all the credits to the above layouts but to make it easier here are some of the kits you should be looking out for . . .

And some of my personal favorites for this Hallow's Eve . . .

Oh and about that little clue above, though I rarely do this . . .
Here's a sneak peek of what's coming soon to the shoppe.

My latest "fishy" creations

2011-08-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

Just checking in to share some of my latest pieces created with some of the latest from the Tumble Fish team . . .

Longfellow's Beauty

Magical Things

Captive Beauty

This next one is a little out there but I was just so intrigued by this old french poster advertisement, I did a little research and then from there it just evolved. What can I say? Guess I have a bit of a dark humor!


La Tete Decapitee (translation: The Decapited Head)

All credits for the above layouts can be found in my gallery here.

Due in part to some things that have been weighing on my mind as of late (hydro-fracking in my state) and the things for which I feel strong in taking a stand against (saving the environment, respect for all creatures upon this planet), this piece came to fruition . . .

Just a quick preview of some of the incredible kits (my favorites) used in the above layouts:

the Chicks rule again!!!

2011-08-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

Well, the 2nd annual Chicks show was a raving success! We had the most incredible assortment of some of the most talented and creative chicks that this side of New York has to offer. Some of my favorites from the day? Here ya go . . .

These are so fun! Necklace/Scarves created from reclaimed material (t-shirts, ribbon, you name it). Made by the talented reclaimed clothing designer Brit Rose of Rosmari Brand.

This lovely lady is just a little something I whipped up to be my official greeter and business card holder.


Yum! What more can I say?! These darling delectables made by Candies and Cupcakes.

Madame Marie; an altered art doll of mine made from a vintage bottle and lots of scrap fabric, lace and jewels. She was in my Etsy shoppe for quite awhile but never seem to get the proper audience. I brought her with me hoping to find a home for her but alas, she still sits in my studio.

I call these "pine cone pretties". So sweet. Created by Jewel of Denile


I created this as an art piece to be featured in the Reclaimed Fashion Exhibit; an event I was involved in as part of the local Green Initiative Team efforts; something else I'm passionate about in addition to my art.

My DD, Livy, made her debut in the show with her first public exhibition of her fashion design from sketch to completed design on the dress form. This picture above is actually taken from the write-up in our local paper. For more check out this link here and here.

How absolutely adorable are these little creatures made from discarded socks. The gals at Under the Green Umbrella have the cutest assortment of fun stuff made entirely from discards. Their motto is one I adopt myself: "Be Green, Buy Local"

Another of my pieces: The Unlikely Vixen

We have one of these every year to welcome our guests. We had twice as many vendors as last year and I'm sure twice as many visitors, as well.


My latest piece I'm working on; an altered Victorian photo.

Aside from all of the wonderful creations on display there was also some fun to be had . . .

Cupcakes!

My boy gettin' in on some hoopin' action!


And would you believe this is the only photo from the day that exists of me? Go figure! LOL I was such a busy bee, I guess I didn't stay still long enough for anyone to snap a shot. Heehee

All in all, it was a really fun event and I can't hardly wait for next year!

the COUNTDOWN begins . . .

2011-07-26T08:49:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Hooray!

As of today, we are, officially, 2 weeks an 5 days away from the 2nd annual Chicks Along the Canal show. I am so excited for this year as we have all sorts of really great things planned. I can't hardly believe how much it's grown from last year and I just know each year it is just going to get bigger and better. I have had quite a bit of "real life" on my plate as of recently and so though I am a little disappointed that I won't have as big a collection of physical pieces to display, I am still so thrilled to be a part of all the fun. Here's just a sample of some of the wonderful things there will be there to enjoy . . .

Our first ever Reclaimed Fashion Show

featuring original reclaimed and recycled fashion designs by RosMari, the Persnickety Chick, and one of our youngest chicks, Livy Rose of the Vintage Rainbow. Reclaimed jewelry and fashion accessories by the talented Richelle Hawkes of Shipwreck Dandy and the whimsical Betty Maple.

For more info you can check out our facebook page here.

In addition to all the incredibly vendors we are also privileged to have special appearance by these fun gals . . .

CNY Roller Derby girlz (Utica Clubbers and Rome Wreckers)

the Merry Hoopsters

And treats provided by

Who doesn't love a scrumptious cupcake brought to you in a vintage double-decker? Yummers!!!

Other vendors expected to attend are:

Kelly of the Painted Cottage . . .

Juli and Gail, mother-daughter team of the Mustard Seed fame . . .

Laura of Little Fish Photography (a personal good friend of mine who has such an amazing eye)

Be sure to check out the Chicks' official website here for all the details.

While I will be spending my time with next month with the talented ladies (and others) mentioned above, here's what I've been up to right now . . .

Kids of the 3rd Dimension

Un Noveau Depart

My Fair Prince

Magic Show

Jumbo Giant Head Wash (vintage altered ad)

Sheila and Earl

All created from Tumble Fish Studio designs. See my gallery for full credits here.

For Shame!

2011-06-28T20:16:00.000-07:00

I am so behind in my posting and have so much to catch up on with this post!

This past month has had me trying to keep up with all of the incredible kits flying into the shoppe over at Deviant Scrap and though it has kept me on my toes (being new, adjusting to the life of a CT member, heehee) it has been a whirlwind of creative fun.
Check out the latest that Tumble Fish Studio has to offer:
These little winged beauties just melt my heart . . .

And who doesn't cherish a collection of their "favorite pieces"?

I suppose it would seem obvious the direction I would go with either one of these beautiful kits; something spiritually uplifting, ethereal, maybe? Or perhaps a tribute to an altered gussied-up tribute to grandma?
Well, truth is, my head has been a bit elsewhere lately and I was just really feeling the need to create a little something for me. Being at the precipice of a rather big decision, I just felt the need for a little art therapy to clear my mind and make my path visible; a little something to reinforce the need to push onward and stay focused. I was no doubt able to use goodies from both
Winged Splendor and Favorite Pieces (as well as a few other little TFS trinkets.
Here is my art journal page chronicling my new found perception of change as being a good thing, having the courage to embrace it, act on it, and in the end hold in my hear the belief that all will work out!

And in case you missed out on last week's arrivals . . .
The "Divas" made their debut:
With so many glorious heads to choose from how could I ever pick just one?
Don't they always say that Two are better than One and don't you agree: freaky can be beautiful!

And my personal favorite:
A little "Odd Magic" and a splash of "Dark Glow"

and you get Sideshow attraction #2- the Wilkins Family of Asheville, North Carolina. Teehee

New in the Shoppe today!

2011-06-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore this new kit, available in the Deviant Scrap shoppe today. There is something so absolutely adorable yet totally flirty and sexy and fun about those vintage bathing beauties from so long ago. Somehow, I get a sense that these gals are about to break through that barrier of what is and just may not be appropriate and I love a gal who asserts her independence and feminine wiles! Heehee . . .

I had no choice really but to seize the opportunity to transform myself into one of them.

Brought my hubby along too for a day "At the Beach"

And while we are on the subject of outings . . .
If you are in the need for a Vacay, simply click on the word "Vacay" to be promptly taken to your destination.

Aren't these guys a hoot? Bellboys for the Heavenly Rates Hotel . . .

Been a bit of a busy bee creating layouts this past week and all of them were created with the fabulous goodies designed by Tumble Fish Studio. Here they are. Be sure to check out my gallery for all the credits.

If you haven't checked out the newest Deviant Muse, you really should. This issue is extra special to me because . . .

"I'm the cover girl!" Yeah!!!!
Lots of other wonderful surprises, as well!

Woot Woot! Go Team!

2011-05-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

What team?

Whose team?

The Tumble Fish Studio team, that's who!

After what feels like a long hiatus, I have decided to join the ranks of the creative team process once again. Having the esteemed privilege of being approached by one of my favorite artists (and inspirations) out there, I found I simply could not say "no". After all, she asked so nicely and it was her second time asking. I figure opportunity never knocks more than twice. I was extremely flattered she thought of me and even more thrilled when I discovered the collection of incredibly talented ladies I would have the pleasure of working alongside. To think that THE oh so talented Marsha Salyer Jorgensen, thought enough of lil' ole me is such a treat!
If you aren't yet familiar with her whimsical work, be sure to check out the Tumble Fish Studio blog.

I assure you that you will be both awed and tickled at the same time.

I promise to be back to share all sorts of her goodies with you now available in the shoppe at Deviant Scrap but in the meantime, I have created a new avatar for myself using all of the wonderful whimsy that is Tumble Fish Studio.

Credits can be found here.

Latest issue in the shoppe now!

2011-05-05T07:45:00.000-07:00

The latest issue of the Deviant Muse is in the shoppe! My talented friend and co-deviant Lisa Easterling's gorgeous layout graces the front cover and for those of you wanting to get a bit more familiar with her, you need only proceed a few pages in to read her entertaining interview.

I must point out that I am also privileged to have one of my transformation deck cards featured this month.

I have a tremendous fear of (and distaste for) being controlled.

I am all about embracing your individuality and

being true to yourself!

I think one of the most wonderful things that ART allows all of us if the freedom of expression and there are many times that my art reflects that. It's been no secret that while I thoroughly enjoy creating whimsical scenes of pure nonsense, I often use my art as therapy for myself; a sort of venue to reflect on my life and an opportunity to slow down and listen to my inner voice.

That having been said . . .

I cannot wait to share with you all the following news.

Drum Roll if you please . . .

I have been asked to create the front cover for next month's Deviant Muse! Hooray!

I am so flattered and so excited! I mention the art therapy up above because my proposed page will be created along the theme of listening to our inner voice. While I feel so flattered, I have to be honest and tell ya: I also feel a little bit nervous about bearing my soul. But excited! Yes, definitely excited! I, of course, would encourage you to head over here next month to pick up your very own issue but I assure you I will post something here, as well, so be sure to check back.

I now leave you with this:

A layout created for my friend with the fabulous new Kit by Pink Lotty (available at Deviant Scrap) in honor of this Sunday's celebration.

Happy Mother's Day All!

‘What is Art? It is the response of man's creative soul to the call of the Real.’ — Rabindranath Tagore (Indian poet and philosopher)

2011-04-23T19:11:00.000-07:00

The last post I gave a shout-out to my friends over at Deviant Scrap. I have said many times how much I love all the gals over there, how great it feels to be amongst other "deviants" breaking through the boundaries of what is the norm and creating outside the box. Well, I have discovered that there is another place I feel just as loved, supported and just plain comfy to be myself. And it is where I have recently found another new home for myself and my art.

I dedicate this post to all of my new friends at

"A diverse gathering of creative souls, a place to help promote each other. Discover new & interesting people. ~ALL creative people welcome~ "

If you haven't yet had the pleasure I encourage you to check it out, just as Miss Izabella has invited us to do so.

I discovered today that this layout of mine from a while back was featured and I am so flattered. There are some pretty tremendous artists in this little community I've found online.

For full credits click here.

Not much time to play lately!

2011-04-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

OR work! On my artsy stuff that is.
Things, life in general, and icky health issues have been in the way a bit lately but I managed to get at least a little playtime this month.
Last month I participated in the physical paste and paper ATC swap at Deviant Scrap and had the pleasure of sharing one of my creations with my inspiration, friend and deviant muse, Hollie Harradon (of Holliewood Studios fame). This month I went digital and got the opportunity to create one of the things I love best.

ART DOLLS!

Here's my gal:

the Queen of Arts . . .

I also scrapped this AAM layout as a result (and a tad bit I admit in retaliation to) of a misunderstanding I had with a family member. I strive to live my life to get along with everyone and to never offend whenever it's possible but something I've learned as of late (and that I am still working on keeping in mind) is that none of us can control anyone's elses reactions nor are we responsible for their feelings. In the end, all that matters is our intention and if our intention is good, that's all that matters. My efforts are in living a life where my intention is always positive, always good, love always my aim.

Lo and behold, it has that total hippie vibe that so personifies my philosophy in life! Dont'cha just love my groovy outfit? One of Hollie's latest creations! Loved the first one and this 2nd edition totally rocks too.

You can find it here.

Been hangin' quite a bit with my gals at Deviant Scrap lately and been privileged to work on a few upcoming projects with them. They are all such "my cup a tea" and am just so tickled that they have asked my to put my creativity to work for them. Don't want to spoil the surprise but be sure to check out the May issue of the Deviant Muse coming soon.

Chicks hold a peep pow-wow. . .

2011-03-01T22:46:00.000-08:00

Well, tonight was the 1st official meeting of the Chicks to plan for this year's "Chicks Along the Canal" celebration. Last year we called it a show; this year it will definitely be an event to remember. We have all sorts of fun ideas/plans up our little feathered sleeves! Stay tuned for more information . . .

In the meantime, I leave you with my latest layout:

Created from the absolutely gorgeous new kit (found here) from all of my talented gal pals at Deviant Scrap; a Somerset Studios publication feature. Got my copy today and I am telling you that it has got to be the best issue yet! The kit was just the icing on the cake.
Hats off to all of the fabulously creative ladies featured but a special congratulations to my dear friend Erika (aka dancingscrapper) who on her very first try at submission was asked to write an article for a three page feature. Woot Woot to you!

and as promised . . .

A pic of the ATC I created for the swap amongst my deviant friends. This gal took a trip clear across the U.S. to the home of my friend and fellow artist (not to mention one of my favorite designers), Hollie Harradon

Faith opens the door to Dreams . . .

LIFE

2011-02-12T17:37:00.000-08:00

So with the Altered Hearts zine currently on hold and with so much of just "life" (work, the kids, volunteer work, etc) happening, I honestly haven't had much time for creating; scrap art, that is. Life itself is a creation, each moment, your invention. At least that's how I see it. Point is, I've really been itching to get my hands dirty in all of my favorite messes. What I wouldn't give for some gesso and alcohol ink wedged under my nails or a bit of mica indelibly stuck to my forehead for a week; hahaha. Gonna make it my personal goal to get back into my studio really soon before it kills me. Actually had an artist friend of mine say to me today that he realizes when other things in life feel outta whack, it usually means he's not connecting with his creative side enough. I have to agree!

Also, to my credit, I hurt my hand pretty bad a couple weeks ago and it's only now starting to feel normal again. I did manage to participate in a swap with my dear gal pals at Deviant Scrap, and just yesterday mailed out an ATC to a friend who I know will be very happy to receive it. I cannot wait for her to see it!!! I've snapped a pic of it but will wait to post it until she for sure receives it. Don't wanna spoil her surprise.

As far as digital scrapping goes, I did recently attempt to step outta my usual style a bit and with the inspiration of the very talented Kelly Rae Roberts, fashioned this layout . . .

"Ode to a Muse"

By the way: have you seen these?

Thank you Kelly, and all of my wonderful friends, artists and muses who continue to inspire me even when "life" gets in the way and my art must take a back seat, if for just a little while. Be back soon!

I "Heart" my Zetti World

2011-01-09T21:28:00.000-08:00

A submission for Week #10 of the Take A Word blog challenge. Not entirely proud of this one (went a bit wild with this one or rather should I say I really "went with it") but it frankly was my endeavor to reclaim my mojo and I simply could not afford to hold back. The sentiment really does ring true if that counts; hehehe.
Credits can be found here.

Happy New Year

2011-01-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

Just piping in to say that I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday full of light, love and creativity and wish all of you the best in the coming new year.

This past year was a time of great growth for me and my reaching out to embrace myself as an artist was such a major part of that growth. I am grateful to all of my family and friends who supported me in this endeavor and to all of you (my fellow creators and artisans) who stood to be such a motivation and inspiration to keep on creating no matter what!

(even when my mojo seemed to skip town for a bit; heehee)

I treasure you all!

~Amber

A winter wonderland set amidst a vast sea of artistry

2010-12-17T11:03:00.000-08:00

Brrrr!!!!

Here, in my neck of the woods, things have taken a rather cold but illustriously snowy turn in the past couple weeks and that means staying inside working on things of a creative nature. Honestly can't complain!

painting by local award-winning artist, Robert Willman of Willman Gallery-Little Falls, New York

This past weekend was the annual Christmas in Little Falls celebration and marked the inaugural event for the Indoor Farmers/Artisans Market. I was privileged to be a part of 27 v vendors present. I shared a space with my very talented friend, Christina Hoover. You can find her gorgeous creations on display here:

Signs of Obsession

Since my friends hail from all over this grand planet of ours and for obvious reasons could not attend the show, I thought I would share some of my latest creations with all of you here.

This sweet little girl was just too cute not to bring back home with me.

This distinguished lady went home with a friend of mine who just adored her foofy feathered chapeau.

Not your traditional ornament, for sure, but the woman who took home Miss Holly apparently thought she would add some flair to this year's celebration. I just adore her flapper-esque style. I must confess that Miss Holly's real name is Lulu. She was altered from an original design of my friend, Christine Honsinger of Fiddlette Designs. She is part of one of my absolute favorite scrap kits, found here.

This little gal found a home that day too.

These butterfly ornaments were such a find and so relatively inexpensive; just needed a bit of sparkle and whimsy!

Something a bit more traditional.

These girls were my first attempt at the art of paper cornucopias. I just adore everything Victorian!

One of many of the more simple gift tags created for the occasion. This guy comes from a classic kit, "Lot No. 87 {ATC Christmas Collection Etcetera}" designed by the dynamic duo (and my friends) Tangie Baxter and Sherrie Drummond available for purchase here.

Our space turned out to be in a bit of a dark corner so the photos aren't the best but I wanted to share them with you all none the least.

There is such a wonderful artistic community of people here in my little town that I am proud to be a part of. I strongly believe that we all stand to inspire one another with our various gifts we have to offer. I also strongly believe that artists are a unique sort of people in that they are able to set aside petty jealousy and envy in order to be able to really support one another in their creative endeavors; that has been my experience, at least. For that reason, I wanted to use this post to showcase some of the super artists that I have had the advantage to meet and in some cases, befriend. They are people of all ages and from all walks of life but we all share in common that insatiable need to just CREATE!


Did you happen to notice the awesome paper wreaths in the right hand corner of the photos taken of our booth? My friend Christina specializes in beautiful handpainted furniture and signs, but just so happens to also be a very talented upcycling artist. This wreath (made from the pages of an antique book) adorns the mantel in my back parlor. Isn't it beautiful? I just love it!!! Christina at the Chicks show! She just so happens to be manning the Mustard Seed booth; another fabulous shop here in town full of creative wonder. My friend and fellow Chicky, Juli Webster has such the decorative eye and her entire shop is a jewel. If you're ever in town it is so worth the stop. I just can't believe how ingeniously Christina (and her partner in crime Hubby) take discarded items and turn them into the gems that they are now; an old door gets a bench and becomes a halltree, window frames thrown out on the curb are reinforced and turned into a greenhouse and staircase spindles and decorative woodwork become a candelabra. Sheer genius, I tell ya! (Incidentally, that greenhouse sits in my garden right now; teehee. Check out the photo of my house at the beginning of this post)

Clay is a local guy who relocated here just this past year and has already made himself well-known in our community. I first met him this past fall at our annual Garlic Festival where he was featuring some of his wire-wrapped bent metal jewelry. His talents in ice carving were showcased at our Christmas in Little Falls celebration last week.

Emily is someone who I met at this year’s Chicks Along the Canal event. I gotta tell ya she is definitely one of my favorite Chicks! She is the owner of E.S.P. Eclectics; a collection of quirky and fun novelties (jewelry, handbags, pillows, headbands, you name it!). Together with her co-creators, Brit Rose and Megan Foley, their crafty and inventive gifts will stop you in your tracks and say "Now why didn't I think of that?!"
Emily has been featured locally in Little Falls, Utica and Albany and currently has her own page on facebook.

I just love her little dolls (so does my daughter)! And this handbag; It's totally mine! Hands off!

Among the talented people I know, there are also these three who I am especially impressed with because of the sheer fact that they are already at such a tender age displaying the courage to express themselves. They are living authentically as the creative beings they are and I admire them for that.

I met such a young man, this past weekend. He was set up beside us at the show and what this kid can do with paper folding is awesome. Visitors and vendors alike were going nuts for this kid! He takes origami to the next level, having been paper folding since he was 4 years old and has come up with 40+ designs of his own.

From bookmarks to jewelry to giant cranes made from flattened sheets of tin and copper, Tristan Dunn, 14, does it all.

And last but not least, my two favorite artists in the whole wide world . . .


My darling daughter, who at the age of 10, has now had two showings of her photos. She is so gifted in so many ways but definitely has that natural ability when it comes to her photography.

Three of her photos found a home that day (this being my favorite of them all).

My 13 year old son is an aspiring comic book artist and professional animator. Art has been his passion since a very young age and he has tried his hand in so many artistic endeavors (painting, sculpture, jewelry, you name it) but sketching remains the most satisfying of them all. He was featured at the Christmas in Little Falls event and is currently working on an exhibit to be featured at the Garnett Art Gallery at SUNY-Rome this next year.

"I'm no angel but . . ."

2010-11-08T19:35:00.000-08:00

So I totally went the other direction with this but I couldn't help it. This famous quote by the infamously naughty, Mae West was the first thing that came to mind:

"I'm no angel but I have spread my wings a bit."
What a stinker she was. Love it!!!

This "skinny" was created for the all-new Take a Word challenge blog. Don't know about it yet?
Check it out!

http://takeaword.blogspot.com/

Into a "Sea of Uncertainty" I go!

2010-11-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

Sometimes to take chances in life even when we are uncertain about where our choice will lead us, we just have to dive right in. Often the things we do in life that really matter require us to tread into unchartered, sometimes rough waters. There may even be what appears to be the threat of danger, the things we fear most, looming by, above and behind us but we must be courageous and vigilant if we are to ever find what it is that is hidden beneath and beyond that uncertainty and fear. This layout is a page for my art journal:
After many long years of being afraid, I am now taking a chance on certain things, treading into foreign seas, uncertain of the outcome but confident about my choices to do so.

For full credits to this layout, see my main gallery here.

Come, sit a spell . . . won't you?

2010-10-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

I decided to join in on the fun at Sunday Postcard Art this week.
Here is my "wicked" submission . . . a bit of a spin on the classic; teehee.

Credits can be found here.

Three Muses Challenge: Things with Wings

2010-10-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

Been in a bit of a "mojo-less" funk lately and thought maybe a little challenge would help. Went to my "Three Muses" for a little inspiration and here is what I came up with.
This week's theme: Things with Wings.