adventures in art & design
Artists
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Lisa Leonard Birthday Giveaway!
Aug 19th
Leave it to a fabulous lady to offer a fabulous giveaway on her birthday!
Stop by Lisa’s blog and wish her a Happy Birthday AND enter her fabulous GIVEAWAY!
Thrifty Baskets and Outer Banks Art
Aug 12th
We’re just getting back from our family vacation in Nags Head, NC! We had a blast hanging out on the beach and touring around nearby Ocracoke Island and Manteo. We love these little islands because they offer a wide variety of local artists’ work.
One of our favorite places to stop is the Kill Devil Hills Cooperative Gallery and Studios right in Nags Head. KDH Coop is an artist run cooperative featuring a wide variety of artwork from local artists. There’s even studio space upstairs where you can often see the artists at work!
Another great place to check out is the Pea Island Art Gallery on the Outer Banks. They carry a wide variety of local artists work as well in various medium, which I really enjoy.
I’d love to still be hanging out on the beach and spending my afternoons pouring over the awesome artwork. Unfortunately, we had to return to reality. And since we’ve been away for a while and still have family visiting, I haven’t had much time for thrifting. (sigh) BUT… I do have a few treasures to share with you that I’ve been saving up!
We picked up these beautiful baskets at an estate sale a couple weeks back. I still haven’t decided where they’ll live or whether or not I should paint or stain them. I think they’ll look nice in our master bedroom once that’s redone this Fall.
We always try checking out the estate sales on Sundays because that’s usually when they’ll cut the prices by at least 50%. So, yep, I got these lovely baskets for $4 instead of $8!!!
We also picked up this gorgeous basket at another estate sale in downtown Richmond, VA. The tag said it’s a rice basket but I couldn’t find a good reference online anywhere. This too was 50% on a Sunday afternoon. I believe the original price of $36. Right now she’s hanging out in our office which is in the midst of a redo so we’ll have to see if she stays or moves to the basement’s entertainment area.
So I’m off to spend time with family we have in town from Nebraska that we haven’t seen for 8 years!!! Soon life will be back to “normal” but for now I’m soaking up this special time with family! I hope you’re enjoying your summer too!
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Glass Act-Choices In Handcrafted Glass Chandeliers
Jul 21st
I came across this amazing kitchen design by Pitsou Kedem in Architectural Digest yesterday. My eyes were instantly drawn to that magnificent glass chandelier hanging over the dining area. (Sorry, I couldn’t find a close-up of it.) It’s constructed of interlocking glass loops and exquisitely handcrafted. Seeing this article inspired me to research other handcrafted glass chandeliers.
This piece is a Suzanne Guttman Glass creation. The delicate hanging mechanism and minimal metalwork allow the glass to stand out.
In contrast, in this piece by Elizabeth Lyons of Lyons Glass the metalwork plays an important role as the armature, tying the piece together. The metallic of the steel and glass are simply grand on this small piece.
This gorgeous opalescent and clear glass chandelier from Red Fern Glass is simply stunning. Oh how I wish I had the space for such a piece.
So here’s hoping you find inspiration today, even in the seemingly small places!
Getting Back Into The Swing Of Things
Jan 24th
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Fine Arts Building
This past Tuesday I started my Senior year at VCU! That means that this building will be my home-away-from-home for the next five months. And believe me, I will be spending A LOT of time here not only attending the four classes I’m taking this semester, but also putting in lots of hours working on projects in the various studios. I’m very excited about my classes this semester.
I’m taking a new course offered for the first time this semester called Intermediate Seminar. This lecture class is described in the syllabus as class where “we will talk (a lot) about all of your curiosities…and we will look hard at how other designers, makers, and artists have utilized their curiosities in their work. We will read articles, write down our thoughts, feelings, theories and our wild conjectures (and read them aloud in class).” And then at the end of the semester we’ll be required to give a presentation meant to “articulate our individual curiosities”. Yikes. Both exciting and scary for me. I’m not a get-up-and-talk-in-front-of-people-person! But hopefully by the end of the semester I’ll be ready!
In addition to this lecture class I’m taking three studios: Fabric Design II, Pattern Weaving and Lampworking II. Fabric Design II continues our exploration into various printing and dyeing techniques as well as fabric piecing and construction. Yes! Quilting! I can’t wait to put my new sewing machine to good use! Woohoo! Oh, and we also had to select a “theme” for the semester-something that our work would revolve around. I chose to continue exploring ocean life so you’ll be seeing a lot of octopi, squid, jellyfish, etc. in my work this semester.
Pattern Weaving is going to be great too. And of course our professor has us diving right in! We’re already working on our first project, called “Green”-either as a color and/or from an environmental awareness perspective. We’re also dressing our looms for our first samples. I’m honestly amazed at how comfortable I’m feeling in the weaving studio considering that I felt like I was all thumbs last semester! LOL I pray that comfort continues!
And then there’s Lampworking II. In this class we’ll be building on the skills we learned in part one but we are also free to choose the direction of our work. If we want to explore sculptural work, jewelry construction, etc., we are able to! Now, I just need to choose! I’m thinking about working with images on glass. I’d like to incorporate some of my husband’s photographs into my work!
Oh, and then on top of this course load, I found out Tuesday that I got an internship at the Virginia Center for Architecture helping with Education and Program Development!!! I’m really looking forward to it. I have a passion for non-profits, especially in the area of education and program development. And Architecture!? Oh yes! I’m hoping to get the opportunity to attend a few lectures and learn A LOT from the wonderful people there. I’m so freakin’ blessed! God is just too good!
Now, I just hope I can keep my sanity through it all and still produce good work, learning and growing all the way!
I’m going to try my hardest to post, at least weekly, about school and things going on with projects, lectures, shows, etc. I hope you’ll stop by!
Update and an apology
Oct 26th
Shu….time is a flyin’! And, yes, I’m having fun. I started back to school August 21 and life has been a whirlwind ever since. I’m taking three studio classes this semester: weaving, lampworking and fabric design. I am learning a lot and keeping quite busy. Hence the apology.
I feel I must apologize for neglecting my blog and blogland friends. I promise to not stay away this long again. 
The photo above is from my first weaving project of the semester. The theme was Small Made Large-take a small amount of weaving and activating a larger area. I did a series of 4 x 6 weavings, three with glass rods through them to help activate the area between them all. Pretty successful I think.
This piece is from my first Lampworking project of the semester. The assignment was joining-attaching multiple pieces/rods of glass. I chose to make glass disks and some crocheted disks as well. I have a wonderful instructor, Emilio Santini. He is so knowledgeable and willing to share that knowledge with all of us. Oh, and he’s very patient.
Though I do not have any photos from my Fabric Design class, I am learning a lot there as well from another great instructor, Julia Pfaff. We’ve been learning various fabric dyeing techniques such as shibori, which is a Japenese dyeing technique, used from many, many years. Loving it!
I promise to keep posting….regularly!
Another Semester Comes To An End
May 8th
And what a semester it has been! It started out kind of rough. This was my first semester being full-time and boy did I feel it.
By mid-term I was seriously considering dropping a couple classes because I just didn’t feel I could keep up. But…by the grace of God (seriously!) I was able to hang in there and pulled off STRAIGHT A’s!!!
Can you believe it? Straight A’s.
I’m just amazed. I’ve learned so many new techniques and a better understanding of working with dyes and textiles.
Though I’m sad the semester is over, I’m looking forward to a summer of exploration with lots of projects that have been bouncing around in my head. I’m giddy with anticipation to get started.
I am also looking forward to heading to Peter’s Valley in a couple weeks for a workshop. Woohoo! Lots of crafting fun! I’ll be keeping you posted.
Artist Interview – Cathy Nault
May 4th
Cathy Nault
What is your background (schooling, training, etc.)?
I am currently seeking a BFA in Crafts at VCU. I took numerous art classes throughout high school and have continued taking classes at various studios/shops around Richmond.
What medium(s) do you work in?
I like working in a variety of mediums. I often tell people I have A.D.D. when it comes to art making because I still can’t pick just one medium to work in and stick with it for too long. However, I would say I’m most passionate about painting ,textiles and recycled art…at the moment. ☺
What is it about this/these medium(s) that fascinate you?
I enjoy painting with acrylics because you can see the results of your work more quickly than most other paints and mediums. I like the fluidity of it too.
With the textiles, I’m still learning. It is a lot more versatile than I thought it would be. With the recycled materials I like find unique ways of using the materials in art.
How would you describe your work?
All over the place! Mostly realistic.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by the challenge of creating something meaningful and different. You’ll often find animals in my work as well.
What motivates you?
I’m motivated by my family and the desire to create.
Why do you think it is important to create things?
Creating art is a way of expressing myself-something I may find difficult doing with words. I believe God has given me this passion for art and I intend to use it.
Were you exposed to art/creating as a child (through school or elsewhere)?
Yes. I took every art class available to me in school growing up and my mom and I took ceramics classes together.
Do you think art is important for children’s education? If so, why?
Absolutely! I think it is important for children to have the freedom to express themselves. Art education gives children an opportunity to be creative and imaginative.
What else do you do for fun?
I enjoy just hanging out with my family. I also volunteer with a local humane society.
Where are you now with your work? Where are you going?
Right now I’m exploring with find objects and recycled materials. I also plan to do some silk dyeing over the summer and just ‘play’ with different mediums.
I haven’t decided where I’m going just yet. I’m just enjoying the ride!
Artist Interview – Andrea Danner-Schultz
May 2nd
Andrea Danner-Schultz What is your background (schooling, training, etc.)?
I majored in Art Education in college at VCU — BFA 1995. Before that I took a variety of art classes in the public school system and some private classes as well.
What medium(s) do you work in?
I work in a variety of mediums, but my current favorite are pmc (precious metal clay) and acrylics.
What is it about this/these medium(s) that fascinate you?
PMC: This product is amazing! You can stamp it, press it into molds, shape and sculpt it and then it becomes pure silver after firing it in a kiln. It’s a bit like magic!
Acrylic: This medium has become one of my favorites. I love how forgiving it is. If you make a mistake, you just simply paint over it. I like to work in building up layers for some dimension to my pieces. This is actually I technique I learned with watercolors, but found it works very well with acrylics too.
How would you describe your work?
Simple and sweet. (this is often the comments I hear as people look at my stuff at shows)
What inspires you?
I am inspired by nature. I have a great love for flowers, birds, and plants. These are the source of inspiration for both my paintings and my jewelry.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by both the desire and need to create as well as the determination to make myself successful as an artist. I just can’t imagine myself in a 9-5 desk job environment.
Why do you think it is important to create things?
For me, it is just something I “have” to do. If I don’t I am miserable, if I do . .. .well, then I am happy.
Do you think art is important for children’s education? If so, why?
Art is a way to express ourselves in different way. It gives children an different form of communication and expression than other outlets. So, yes I think art is fundamental to a child’s well rounded education.
Were you exposed to art/creating as a child (through school or elsewhere)?
Yes, I was lucky to have experienced some great art classes through school as a child.
What else do you do for fun?
I walk my dog every morning in the woods. I am inspired during our walks and it helps keep my in shape since I spend a lot of my day sitting in my studio.
I also love to dance and take Zumba classes – another great way to express yourself!
Where are you now with your work? Where are you going?
I am constantly growing and changing as an artist. I continue to take new classes and read books to improve my skills. I find myself trying to create a happy balance between making what I love, but also selling it successfully too.
For more information about Andrea and her work, you can visit her website Artwork by Andrea, her ArtisticCreations etsy shop or check out her blog.
Artist Interview – Adele Castillo
May 2nd
Adele Castillo What is your background (schooling, training, etc.)?
I have a bachelors degree in education from ODU with concentration in art. I’ve also taken some graduate level courses along the way, keeping my certification up-to-date. I taught art in the public school system for 19 years at the elementary school level.
What medium(s) do you work in?
Currently I’m working in acrylics and have worked in all medium.
What is it about this/these medium(s) that fascinate you?
I enjoy working with the medium because it is quick. I like to see the results quickly. Acrylic is so versatile and I still have more to learn and explore with it.
How would you describe your work?
Photo realistic with an unusual sense of color.
What inspires you?
Usually a scene, I like the way the animals are filling in the space they are in and their relationships with the people they are with.
What motivates you?
I have a need to create and paint. I’ve gone through dry spells and then have to go on a painting binge to fill that need.
Why do you think it is important to create things?
It is the desire for creativity.
Do you think art is important for children’s education? If so, why?
Absolutely. Art is the one link throughout time that links us to our history. It records history. Because of the history art provides, we could almost do away with the written word.
Were you exposed to art/creating as a child (through school or elsewhere)?
Yes and no. My grandmother painted. My parents were artistic but didn’t pursue it. Though they did not pursue their artistic abilities, they were very supportive and accepting of my abilities and provided me with any materials necessary.
What else do you do for fun?
I paint all the time. Hmm…eat!!! ☺
Where are you now with your work? Where are you going?
Right now my commission work is keeping me very busy.
I would like to explore more abstract painting and textured surfaces. I also enjoy learning about acrylic paints and want to become an expert on color and acrylics.
You can learn more about Adele’s work at her website and blog.
Artist Interview – Keithley Pierce
May 2nd
Keithley PierceWhat is your background (schooling, training, etc.)?
I don’t have any formal art schooling or training. I went to St. Catherine’s where the art teacher liked my work and was very encouraging. Then I went to Freeman High School for part of high school and the art teacher hated my work. I went from thinking I had the potential to thinking I didn’t.
I went into real estate where I acquired some investment properties. Over time I built up enough to finally pursue a career as an artist
What medium(s) do you work in?
What is it about this/these medium(s) that fascinate you?
With the Bad Girl Art, I have the freedom to create whatever I feel when I’m painting.
With the mixed media book art, there’s a sense of a thought process that goes into it. I’ll pick something up on my walks and think, “hmmm…that will go great with that piece.”
How would you describe your work?
I would say colorful.
What inspires you?
With the mixed media pieces I address racial intolerance, bad relationships, and animal rights. Bad Girl Art has a sense of humor, poking fun at things and making people laugh.
What motivates you?
When I’m in a good mood and feeling good about myself, the artwork comes easily. It is difficult to create when I’m down.
Why do you think it is important to create things?
It is what keeps me sane, an outlet.
Do you think art is important for children’s education? If so, why?
Absolutely! When humans come into the world they have creativity. Art is an outlet for that.
What else do you do for fun?
Facebook, volunteer at Richmond Animal Care and Control, reading, and gathering with friends.
Where are you now with your work? Where are you going?
Right now my time is split between Bad Girl Art and working on Mixed Media altered hardcover books, many from books I’ve read and don’t feel are worthy to pass on. I’d like to experiment with blank books. I am also playing around with Photoshop and incorporating these pieces with painting and other media.
You can see more of Keithley’s work at Bad Girl Art.
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