Christine Atkins

Art and Soul Blog Hop

2012-01-30T01:00:00.000+08:00

Welcome to the 2012 Virginia Art and Soul Artist Interview Blog hop.

Today I am lucky enough to have Lynne Suprock to introduce you to.

Lynne is teaching Metal Chapter books at Art & Soul. and they are just beautiful.

As a self taught artist, Lynne began Simply Pretty Stuff in 2007 by designing charms and tiaras for local shoppes and charity. From 2007 to 2011 Lynne designed and made charms and ornaments for The StoryPeople. She currently teaches soldering techniques to individuals and groups at a local studio in Gettysburg, PA and loves to attend shows as a vendor and teaches workshops on the East Coast. Her pins were featured in Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine and she will also have an upcoming feature on rings in the same magazine as well.

So Lynne..........

Where do you get your inspiration?

I have always been a people watcher …..always, always, always. If I could afford the luxury of time, I would spend more actual research hours at the airport, in a coffee shoppe, or in Grand Central Station doing just that.

So, I guess I can say that people inspire me; what they say in a day, what they wear, how they walk or talk to their children or their pets. I choose a person or two and allow my imagination to design a pin, ring, tiara, etc. for them. Of course, the kind of media I use places my magic into perspective and sets parameters back in the studio.

The other place I find inspiration is in the world of little things. Dusty, little glittery things from my childhood inspire me. Portobello Road inspires me. Lots of itsy bitsy glitter and little things there! The most special of my finds, fit into my pockets for the flight back home.

After Art, What Else Is Your Passion?

Hmmm… Telling people what to do…hehehe. Honestly, I do find passion helping others to learn whatever it is they want to learn. I also really love to write. To expand my horizons and to earn extra income, I was a local feature writer for The York Sunday News, a York and Adams County, PA newspaper. Loved that.

What a lot of people don’t know about me is that being an artist is actually my second career. I have a Master’s in Science degree and had published in health care journals and taught clinical and classroom nursing until 2007. I was used to the organization and structure that went with the profession. I also acquired and finely honed the skills needed to deal with those daily life and death situations. Back in the classroom or in the clinical setting, I was excited to impart that knowledge to the students.

Perhaps it is both nursing assessment skills and teaching experience that dovetails nicely with designing or teaching my art and art techniques. Teaching allows me to be free and true to myself in many ways.

What aspect of teaching do you love the most?

I love that the students are diverse. They can be anyone of these: novice and in an art class for the first time, looking to express their inner selves, wanting to learn new technique or tools, or just wanting to meet others with like minds and go home with something cool! It is amazing to hear students share their own stories of their artistic journeys.

I also love that art itself is so diverse. You can use one media, or mix the media. You can invent a new technique or pull from others and use their wisdom in a new way. No one owns art, and creativity is not exclusive. We each bring our own twist and turn to the artists and creative media that came before us. Teaching helps to nurture imagination of the new artist and is a good way to pass the baton.

What is one “key” to creativity or personal discovery would you like to share?

One thing that has taken me three or so years to realize is that there is no wrong way to create art. Art is expression that begins within. We get inspired to create, but how we do it depends on our imagination, our stash of available supplies, and how well we can manipulate our tools. There is no real failure in my work, but there is always room for improvement, which can give birth to more complicated pieces or new designs completely.

To see more of Lynne's work have a look at her blog and website.

www.simplyprettystuff.com

www.simplyprettystuff.blogspot.com

Remember to leave a comment letting us know where you get your inspiration and you go into the draw to win a fantastic goody pack by Artistic Artifacts. Comments are open until 6th of February 2012.

PS make sure to visit the next blog tomorrow Leslie Brier another fantastic teacher at Art and Soul this year.

Constructing Nature

2012-01-28T16:49:00.000+08:00

My first solo exhibition opens on the 9th of February 2012 at Gallery East.

See below for all the details.

I would love to see you there.

xxx

GALLERY EAST

has pleasure in inviting you to the opening of

Constructing Nature

sculptural forms by

CHRISTINE ATKINS

at 6pm on Thursday 9 February 2012

(the exhibition runs until 4 March)

Maiden Voyage, electroformed copper, 12 x 49 x 7 cm

Using simple elements from the natural environment, such as leaves, sticks, flowers and seeds, the artist entices the viewer to connect to the Australian landscape and relook at nature in a new way. With this reconnection to nature comes the hope of sustainably and protection, drawing attention to the importance of preserving the native environment as precious and integral.

Lotus pods, electroformed copper, 22 x 8 x 8 cm

The works can be viewed on http://www.galleryeast.com.au/exhibit/current/main.htm from 6 February

Directors: David Forrest & Janis Nedela

Gallery East. 94 Stirling Highway, North Fremantle, Western Australia 6159

T: 08 9336 6231 F: 08 9336 2678 www.galleryeast.com.au

Gallery East hours: Tues - Sat 11am - 5pm, Sun 2 -5 pm

Pewter Casting Workshop February 2012

2012-01-07T10:59:00.002+08:00

One Day Workshop.

Come and learn how to create your own unique pewter charms, pendants and miniature sculptures using four simple pewter casting methods.

You will learn how to cast repeatable flat back charms and 3d charms, as well as creating one off non repeatable carved charms.

You can make all of these charms at home with very little cost and equipment.

Workshop fee $85 plus a material fee of $60
Total cost $145

Friday 3rd of February 9.30am - 2.30pm or Saturday 4th February 9.30am - 2.30pm

Limit 8 people per class

Workshop to be held in Greenwood, Western Australia

For Bookings please contact Christine Atkins on
info@christineatkins.net
PH 9246 7448

Townsville - Fibre Arts Australia 2011

2011-12-16T08:04:00.040+08:00

Time has flown by since I went to Townsville to teach this year. I wanted to show you some of the work that was produced from the other workshops. Those of you that know me, you will know that I frequently visited the other classrooms and made a pest of myself with the other tutors.

But first this is a picture from the day I spent with Glenys Mann who is the instigator of many of these fibre events around Australia, Pamela Croft and Joss. We had a fantastic day over at Magnetic island and after the loss of a very dear friend of mine it was nice to spend some time with some lovely women and laugh.

John Garrett

Experimental Fibre Constructions with Alternative and Recycled Materials

John Garrett is a fibre artist and most definitely a sculptor of textiles. John's work is mind blowing and John himself was allot of fun to spend time with during the week. I think he may have got a little tired of me living in his classroom though. Next time John is in Australia teaching I am definitely going along. Not only is John's work amazing, the works produced by the students were fantastic. Here is a little glimpse. I could only remember a few names so if I am showing your work please let me know and I will add your name in.

These two baskets are by Warren Virgen

The talented Warren is going to be my studio tradee for Ballarat 2012. So watch out everyone we will be having a great time. Can you come to New Norcia as well Warren?

This gorgeous creation is by Barbara Neuohoffer.

Barbara and her husband Bob were so nice and helpful to me in Townsville. They chauffeured and tour guided me around EVERYWHERE. Barbara is a great artist herself and has been making these drawings a day of an apple for a year. They will be exhibited next year in Townsville. Her eye for detail and design was beautiful. I look forward to purchasing one when they go on sale.

Dr. Pamela Croft

Textured - A visual narrative

Mmmm, where to start with Pamela Croft. She is amazing. A beautiful warm person, wise and a wicked sense of humour. Her students again produced some fantastic pieces which if I was not in Western Australia with our incredibly strict quarantine, I would have loved to have bought one of the boats that Pam and her students made during the week.

(Carol- found any more seed pods yet and remember I know where your sister lives.)

CHERILYN MARTIN

NEW DIMENSIONS IN SURFACES & STITCH a journey of discovery………

I get the sense that Cherilyn class were worked off their little feet and Cherilyn stood over them with a whip. The amount of work they produced and techniques covered was enormous. Cherilyn is not really that scary either, she is a beautiful lady, who always asked after me while I had the flu at Townsville. I look forward to spending more time with Cherilyn in the future.

These last few pictures are of some flowers I came across on one of my early morning adventures. I am going to try to sculpt one in wax........... one day.

Pewter Casting Workshop 2012

2011-12-10T06:51:00.000+08:00

First I wanted to say a very big thank you for all the lovely comments here and on facebook from those that have taken a workshop with me before in response to my Art & Soul Giveaway.

Those comments have given me a nice "kick up the b@m" to arrange more Perth workshops. I am looking to schedule a pewter casting workshop for the end of Jan, early Feb 2012. Those of you that are interested can you let me know if you prefer a Friday or Saturday class.

More details when I have a preferred day.

Giveaway- Art & Soul Virginia 2012

2011-12-09T10:00:00.000+08:00

I realise that I am unknown to most people so I thought I would offer a gift to two people who are willing to take a chance and enrol in one of my classes at Art and Soul in Virginia as a thank you.

One person from my Capture my heart workshop and one person from No solder etched shadow box will receive one of my signature heart necklaces. ( Similar to this one).

Living in Western Australia (the most isolated capital city in the world) I assume that everyone else has better access to supplies and tools than I do. I have since discovered that this is not always the case. So I have adjusted my supply list for my classes to make it easier for those of you who would like to attend the workshop, but could not access the required tools. See below for the revised materials list. Don't be put off by the optional list as it is just that, optional. If you have the tools and want to bring them great, if not we will make do without them.

Capture my heart

Thursday March 1st

Kit Fee $20: Includes, Sheet metal, wire, silver wire, hand cast bronze twig, neoprene, tubing, bronze clasps and other surprises.

Essential

· Small riveting hammer or small ball peen hammer , either will do

· Safety glasses

· Precious object/ objects /focal bead to place inside your cage.

· Beads for decoration

· Long bead or focal piece to decorate the bottom of your cage.

Optional

If you have some of these tools bring them but they are not essential.

· Jewellers saw

· Centre punch

· Drill- battery – if you have one

· Table vice. Large and heavy is better

· Hand held vice. Can often be found in antique shops.

· Metal Bench block. Only bring if your table vice does not have one attached.

· Jewellery Bench pin- if you have one.

· Round nose pliers

· Needle nose pliers

· Flush cutters

· Metal scribe

· Metal file- small

· Sharpie – fine

· Tube cutting jig if you have one- for small tubing

· Small letter stamping set

No Solder Etched Shadow Box

Friday 2nd March

In this workshop you will learn several ways to create an etched wearable shadow box or slider charm, with no soldering. Learn different ways to fasten your box to hold your precious object safe. This can be adapted for pendants, miniature sculptures and bracelets. Highlight the beauty of your shadow box with a professional buffed surface or a lovely soft satin.

Kit Fee $15: Includes, Sheet metal, wire, metal strips, neoprene, tubing, bronze clasps, precut bezels and other surprises.

Essential

• Flat nosed pliers
• Safety glasses
• Riveting hammer or ball peen
• Charms, interesting decorative beads, buttons, and small bits and pieces

Optional

If you have some of these tools bring them but they are not essential.

• Tube cutting jig- jeweller’s tool – for small tubing.
• bracelet mandrel
• Small jewellery anvil
• Metal Bench block.
• Flush cutters- important must be flush cut
• Round nose pliers
• Battery Drill
• Jewellers Saw
• Jewellers Bench Pin
• Hand vice
• Rubber stamps- include texture and pattern stamps.
• Staz on stamp pad- black
• Black sharpie pen- medium tip is fine.

Please feel free to leave a comment or email me if you have any questions. info@christineatkins.net

Modern Relics - Townsville 2011

2011-10-09T16:53:00.000+08:00

A few weeks ago I spent a week teaching in Townsville, Queensland. I had an amazing week, with a class of fun and really talented students.

I have never travelled with so much luggage before. I think I spent the whole time apologising to everyone who had to handle it. I am much more of a one bag kind of girl.

Here are some photos of some of the work from the class. Hopefully I have matched the right person's name to the right work. If I have made a mistake please let me know.

Christina Bahrdt

Christina was my partner in crime all week and kept me sane with early morning trips for good coffee and seed pods. Thanks Christina. Have a look at more of Christina's work at Studio Indigo

Lyn

Lyn was a Townsville local and it was a joy having her in the class. My favorite pieces of hers was this cast silver pendant.

Wendy

Wendy travelled down from Cairns or the tablelands (sorry Wendy can"t remember which) I seem to remember her and Kes having a fun adventure on our half day.

Jan

Jan was another local and another lovely person who took myself and Pam Croft out for an afternoon of fun and seed pod collecting.

Kes

Kes is a jeweller in her own right and once I got over my nerves of having someone in the room who knew how things should be done, not how I do them, she was great value.

Gitte

Linda

Linda and Gitte made the trip from Brisbane and again created some gorgeous work during the week.

Joan- What can I say about Joan....... Joan created some absolutely gorgeous pieces during the week but I did not get a chance to get a photo of her pieces. (Joan, you thought you got away with it)

Estelle

And saving for last Estelle. Estelle and her husband Warren drove from Darwin to Townsville. I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed their company. I will show you some of Warrens work later. I will not be able to show you his amazing t-shirt basket as I am not sure if you are allowed to have an x rated images on blogs so you will just have to use your imagination.

Thanks everyone for such a great week I had a wonderful time with my students and the other amazing tutors who I will talk about next time.

Jewelry Workshops - USA March 2012

2011-09-26T13:53:00.000+08:00

Art and Soul Viginia 2012

Wow one of my best artist buddies ( aka Jen Crossley) and I are off to the US next year to teach some jewelry workshops.

Art and Soul Virginia 1-6 th of March 2012

I will be teaching some one day classes

Capture my heart

No solder etched shadow box

and Jen and I are teaching our masterclass Found, Etched and Connected. This is such a fun and technique packed class, that involves no glue so your jewelry will last forever.

Found Etched and Connected

Jen is also teaching some one day and evening workshops so be sure to check out her classes. She is an amazing teacher and alot of fun as well.

I am really looking forward to this adventure and also excited about making some new American friends.

InTension- Fibre Exhibition

2011-08-19T09:53:00.001+08:00

Finding Home - Christine Atkins 180 x 104 x 24cm

Last Sunday I helped man the WAFTA exhibition at the Moores Building in Fremantle.

The exhibition was themed around architecture, black and white and bold colours. As you could imagine it could be extremely difficult to curate a show with so many diverse artists, but WAFTA did a wonderful job of pulling together a interesting and cohesive exhibition.

Unfortunately photos were not allowed so I can not show you any of the works except mine. The hanging of the exhibition was really well done and interesting, with a 2D and 3D section. All the 2D panels were mounted on bamboo sticks and hung as if they were floating in space. Hard to explain without photos. I took some time to stand in the middle of the space and the effect was very interesting. Upstairs were the 3D works, which of course are always my favorites. There were a group of felted and patch worked dogs that were great fun with each one having its own unique character, by Karen Cameron. As I was downstairs for most of the time I did not get the chance to study the amazing pieces in as much detail as I would have liked. I am hoping that I will get a chance to go and have another look before the exhibition closes.

InTension August 12-28th of August 2011

Moores Building Contemporary Art Gallery

Henry St Fremantle 10-4pm every day.

PS: there is a nice coffeeshop inside the building for coffee after visiting the exhibition.

Reliquaries and Shrine Workshops 2012

2011-07-23T17:57:00.003+08:00

The problem with not posting on your blog like a good little blogger is that all of a sudden you have so much to share it is overwhelming.

Fibre Arts Australia has arranged two fantastic events for 2012 which I will be teaching at.

For both events I will be teaching my Reliquaries & Shrines Workshop

The first is in Ballarat Victoria from 8th to the 14th of April

The second is in Western Australia at the Monastery at New Norcia 15th to the 22nd of April

Fibre arts do such a fantastic job of the week with all meals and accommodation provided with tutor slide shows each night so you get to view all the tutors works. Check out some of the other tutors as well. So hard to choose which class to do sometimes.

I have made some fantastic and lifelong friends from these weeks and it is absolute heaven to have everything provided for you, so it is a week of total art indulgence.

Art Melbourne 2011

2011-06-02T08:42:00.000+08:00

From the Fire- Christine Atkins 2011

Hi all, I am finally back from Melbourne and have so much to share. While sales at the show were slow I meet some wonderful people and sold one of my pieces to a hospital art collection. From the fire will be going to a new mental health hospital in the Dandenongs in Victoria. This piece was created after the horrific bush fires in Victoria and our own bush fire in Toodjay in Western Australia which also destroyed many homes two years ago. This piece shows the resilience of humans and of our native plants. The blackened seed pods represent how our bush needs fire to regenerate, for seeds to grow and sprout and how from this destruction came many stories of hope, heroism and resilience both human and animal. The resilience shown by the people affected by these fires was amazing and still ongoing today. I feel that their stories and sense of community hold many lessons for us to learn from.

As well as my piece going to a place of healing I also met some amazingly talented people and I thought I would introduce you to some of the people I shared my row with.

Oodlies are a range of fantastically quirky characters created by Joi Murugavell. Joi and her husband Casper are amazing people. I am blown away by the following they have created in one short year. As well as her prints Joi had some hand drawn chairs and shoes at the show. They were great fun and I loved meeting them both. Jo's pieces are inspired by some interesting people and experiences. Go here to read more about the inspiration for image above. The Cycle of Waking Up.

Sarah Gully- Art Melbourne 2011

Sarah Gully had a range of her miniature oil paintings, acrylic paintings on found board, and water colour pencil drawings. Sarah's art has a quirky sense of fun and adventure. Her pieces had great titles, I just wish I could remember what they were to share with you.......

Sarah Gully - Art Melbourne 2011

Sarah Gully- Art Melbourne 2011

I will post some more finds soon.........

Ceramic stories- Kathy Ruttenberg

2011-04-30T21:50:00.001+08:00

Grounded 32”x56.5”x26” ceramic-2009

I have been so caught up with getting every thing ready for Melbourne I have not had much time to look for new works to share with you, however I came across Kathy Ruttneberg's work this week and could not wait to share it with you.

Kathy works in ceramics, watercolours and etching, but my love of sculpture has won out here and I am extremely taken with her ceramic pieces. I am amazed at how much imagery can be put into one piece and how rich each one is. I would love to sit and listen to Kathy as she told the stories contained within each piece.

Role Reversal 26”x23”x18” ceramic-2010

Tree Hugger 92”x35”x40” ceramic, bronze, wood-2010

Be sure to also check Kathy's work displayed in Macys window. It helps us to see the scale of these wonderful pieces.

Art Melbourne Ticket Giveaway

2011-04-26T19:10:00.000+08:00

If you are going to be in Melbourne from the 19-22nd of May and would like to come to Art Melbourne I have tickets to giveaway for the opening night, Friday and weekend. Included in each giveaway is for entry for two.

If you would like tickets email me your address and which day you would like to attend. Please include two preferences incase your first choice is taken

info@christineatkins.net

Opening night- Thursday 19th of May 5 -9pm
Friday     20th of May    12 -9pm
Saturday 21st of May    10 -5pm
Sunday   22nd of May   10 -5pm

PS: Make sure you come by and say hello. I will be at Stand S22.

Learning Curves

2011-04-09T09:18:00.001+08:00

Wow what a few weeks of trials and learning's.

First lesson- Patience.

Second lesson - What can go wrong, will go wrong

Third lesson - Having a tooth pulled out hurts (alot) and no they do not let you keep your tooth

Crating artworks for Art Melbourne

The universe works in mysterious ways. Why is it that when you are really busy and have alot on with deadlines looming things go wrong. First a week of being sick, then a week of trips to the dentist with a bad tooth and lastly needing to uncrate all my crated artwork and reshoot the photos.

Lighting is not right.

I have experienced a large learning curve over the last few weeks on how to and how not to photograph artwork. I quite openly declare that anything to do with photography means my mind automatically shuts down. However one part of being an artist means the documentation and promotion of your work and if you are like me there is no money in the current budget for a professional photographer so it is DIY.

So two weeks later, one new camera, new lens and new studio lights and I have photos. I now slightly understand aperture, ISO, white balance,exposure and the importance of getting the lighting correct. One book I found helpful was Photographing Arts, Crafts & Collectibles: Take Great Digital Photos for Portfolios, Documentation, or Selling on the Web by Steve Meltzer .

PS I forgot to mention if you decide to photograph your own work look forward to some (alot of ) trial and error. Apparently practice does make perfect.

My next learning curve ....... how to design promotional materials or find a graphic artist who is willing to help me. Any offers?

Sneak Peak- Art Melbourne

2011-03-25T07:50:00.000+08:00

130 x 32 x 10cm

This piece is called Anemohory Journeys or Journeys on the wind.

Representing the start of a plants life from when the seed journeys to a new place and begins its new life, this piece reminds us of our own journeys to new places and new beginnings. The need to send down new roots and grow strong in our new place of being.

Art Melbourne 2011

2011-03-20T10:31:00.000+08:00

I am exhibiting my new series Constructing Nature at Art Melbourne in May this year. I was selected as a stART artist which is a special section for emerging artists. I will be giving away free tickets closer to the dates so if you are interested sign up for my newsletter and you will get first option. Tickets will be available for the opening night or general weekend admission. If you can't make it to Melbourne this year, still join up for my newsletter as I will be posting some freebies over the next few months as well.

Some sneak peaks of my new series coming up over the next few weeks.

Nature's Photographer- Daniel Sroka

2011-03-12T09:06:00.000+08:00

Sting - An abstract macro photograph of the seed pod from a mesquite tree.

I recently came across Daniel Sroka's work and was instantly attracted to his process. He takes the often overlooked beauty in nature and makes it large and in your face, so there is little chance you can miss it.

"I work like a sculptor who lets the flaws and veins of a stone guide his chisel. As I explore each object, I let its unique characteristics guide my hand and eye, allowing me to discover patterns and forms hidden within the material." Daniel Sroka

Heliotrope II - An abstract macro photograph of a dried desert marigold.

The results are simple, striking and incredibly powerful photographs "of light, texture, and dimension that celebrate the physical and spiritual grace that can be found within the simplest elements of nature"

To see more of Daniel Sroka's work visit his website and blog

Like many artists Daniel also has another business producing Ketubah's
"A ketubah is a work of art that uses images and words to express the love and commitment of your marriage vows. While the ketubah has its roots in the Jewish wedding tradition, its beauty has become embraced by couples from all different religions and cultures. It is signed by the bride and groom in a special ceremony at the wedding, publicly declaring their commitment and love, and symbolizing the traditional start of their married life. After the wedding, the ketubah is usually hung in a place of honor in the home, and serves as a daily reminder of the vows they have made to each other on their wedding".

If you are interested in your own ketubah go to Daniel's other site for a look. Modern ketubah

Fibre Design Book

2011-03-04T08:19:00.000+08:00

In 2010 a team of dedicated Textile and Fibre lovers ( Jayne Stacey, Dragon Design and TAFTA) worked to put together a full colour book on Fibre and Textile art in Australia and New Zealand. Unfortunately after all their hard work, they did not receive enough submissions with quality photography to publish the intented book. I have to admit my heart was broken a little, as I was fortunate enough to be one of the chosen artists.

As an honour and appreciation to the chosen artists the magazine Textile Fibre Forum will be publishing all the selected artists in their next few issues. Starting with Issue 1 no 101, 2011. My work appears in this issue.

If you are a textile and fibre lover I would encourage you to get a subscription to the magazine as it showcases some very talented and interesting artists and keeps you up to date with textile news in Australia and overseas.

You can see all the chosen artists for the Fibre Design Book on TAFTA's website. While you are there have a look at the events pages and there maybe an exhibition or workshop which may tempt you over the summer.

China's Entombed Warriors

2011-02-25T07:07:00.001+08:00

I am just back from a few days in Sydney and while I was there I managed to sneak in a visit to the Art Gallery of NSW to see China’s entombed warriors.

The First Emperor: China’s entombed warriors reveals the fascinating story of a key figure in world history, who unified China, leaving a legacy that has lasted over 2000 years, Qin Shibuang.

As well as the amazing terracotta warriors on display there was a range of cast bronze ceremonial vessels and bells, ornamental gold and jade, weapons and armour, palatial architectural remains, pottery and ceramics.

In the last room of the exhibition were some life-size bronze animals, just recently discovered.

All of the pieces including the entombed warriors were truly fascinating, the amount of intricate details were amazing. I would love to see how the cast vessels were made with such detail and fine lines. The terracotta warriors display included two horses with all pieces being life sized or larger. Again the attention to detail and the craftsmanship was amazing.

Even if ancient art is not your taste it is worth a visit just to admire the amazing craftsmanship with which all of the pieces are executed.

The exhibition runs until the 13th of March, 2011.

Tim Tate- Extraordinary Glass Work

2011-02-17T09:51:00.000+08:00

The Apothecarium Moderne

I am always drawn to art that contains stories and history. Tim Tate combines rich narratives with the skills and talent to produce incredibly strong works. Looking at Tim's website he calls himself a mixed media sculptor, but it is his glass work that draws me in. He is the Co-founder, Creative Director and Marketing Director of the Washington Glass Studio.

Ashes

Vials

Concrete Heart

Fragile

Elsa Mora

2011-02-11T08:45:00.000+08:00

Part of the purpose of this blog is to introduce you to other artists, Australian and international who you may or may not have come across before. Even though we may practice one form of art ourselves our inspiration comes from many diverse places.

Today I would like to introduce you to Elsa Mora.

Her work is filled with fairy tales and stories that I imagine are not always rosy tales of love. I am espeically taken with her paper cuts which are incredibly detailed and very time consuming. I find it difficult to imagine the control she possesses to make such intricate works. Like her papercuts her drawings are quirky, yet very narrative. With Elsa's work my mind travels to far off places filled with talking animals and intriquing adventures.

You can also visit her Etsy shop for prints of some of her works. Elsita Etsy Shop

This last one is one of my favorites.

Storia- Merchants of Wares and Stories

2011-02-04T08:20:00.000+08:00

Today I thought I would tell you the story about one of the stockists of my jewelry. Storia in Guildford is filled with hand- picked eco-conscious artisan products. With the focus on sustainability Storia, carefully researches and sources its products from ethical producers. Annah (the gorgeous owner) stocks many West Australian and Australian designers, with a few carefully chosen international creators mixed in for the WOW factor.

What I love about the store is that I can shop there knowing I am supporting individual artisans and ethical manufacturers and I get something unique and one-off. Storia stocks clothing for women, men and children as well as jewelry and other hand made products.

If you are looking for something special for yourself , a gift or you are just window shopping definitely drop in to the store. You can then continue shopping in Guildford, which has some new shops, fantastic antique stores and cafes.

Storia- 1/151 James St Guildford Open Tuesday - Friday 10am - 5pm Saturday- Sunday 10am - 4pm

Something for fun

2011-01-29T07:40:00.000+08:00

For those of us with blogs - What type of blog are you?

Go to Typealyzer and type in your blog address.

I am The Guardians.

The organizing and efficient type. They are especially attuned to setting goals and managing available resources to get the job done. Once they have made up their mind on something, it can be quite difficult to convince otherwise. They listen to hard facts and can have a hard time accepting new or innovative ways of doing things.

The Guardians are often happy working in highly structured work environments where everyone knows the rules of the job. They respect authority and are loyal team players.

mmmm I am not sure, I will check back in a few months.

Let me know what blog type you are...........

Fibres West 2011

2011-01-28T08:04:00.001+08:00

Lissa Hunter

Fibres West is held in Bunbury Western Australia, two hours from Perth, 9th to 15th of October. I am lucky enough to be doing Lissa Hunter's workshop Sculptural works: Mapping your creative process. I have admired Lissa's work for many years so I am looking forward to doing one of her workshops.

The others tutors include:

AKIRA BLOUNT
RUTH HADLOW
CATHY HOFFMANN
ANITA LARKIN

MARIANNE LITTLE

Jen Crossley in the USA

2011-01-21T07:51:00.000+08:00

Modern Relics - Jewelry workshop - Ancient Techniques, Contemporary Style

2011-01-14T10:26:00.000+08:00

I am teaching a weeklong jewelry class in Townsville from the 18th to the 24th of September 2011.

My workshop is part of the Fibre arts @ Townsville run by Fibre Arts Australia.

These are really wonderful retreats where you get to play and learn all week and have all your cooking, cleaning and dishes done for you. Plus you get to meet some wonderful creative, talented people.

In my workshop you will create your own wearable art from start to finish in this fast paced class designed for people who want to create unique contemporary jewellery without the large outlay for expensive jewellery tools. The start of the week sees you creating unique charms, talismans and components with a range of simple casting techniques for silver, copper, pewter and bronze. Team these components with shaped, etched, textured and coloured metal to form rings, bracelets and necklaces. Learn a range of stable cold connections to ensure your jewellery lasts and incorporate found and treasured objects into your work. Techniques covered during the week include a variety of jewellery casting techniques, cold connections, wirework and forging metals, chains and clasps, torch fired enamelling and etching. Give your jewellery that professional look with a range of finishes from a soft aged patina, a smooth satin or a highly polished shine. This class is suitable for beginners and more advanced students who are looking to extend their skills.

For more information on my class or to see what else is on offer go to Fibre Arts Australia

Lost wax casting

2011-01-09T15:18:00.000+08:00

To start my blog off I thought I would show you the steps to lost wax casting. This is the process I use to make my sculptures along with electroforming.

Welcome to my new blog

2011-01-09T15:00:00.000+08:00

Thanks for joining me on my new blog adventure. I will be showcasing some of my favorite artists over the next few posts as well keeping you in the loop about what I am up to. Please feel free to make any comments and to bear with me while I add links and bits and pieces.