Scarlet Fields

Work Days

2011-08-05T08:03:00.000-07:00

What a terrific break in my working day to find out that I have been given a shout out on "bloombakecreate.com". Thank you so much for plugging my texting mittens as gifts for the holidays. Just so you can read it for yourself...here is the http://www.bloombakecreate.com/.

As a total aside and to plug the vendors who will carry my texting mittens: Wildflower, Evansville, Indiana, http://www.wildflowerboutique.org/. Peggy carries my jewelry, handbags and of course texting mittens. She should be fully re-stocked by the end of September. Lush Day Spa, Evansville, Indiana, http://thelushdayspa.com/. Shannon will have her shipment of texting mittens mid September. The Purple Plum who can be found in Huntingburg, Indiana or via face book: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Purple-Plum/106371279387370. Texting mitten arrival-mid September. Last and newest vendor is The Magic Jacket, located in Fish Creek, WI, http://www.magicjacket.com/. The Magic Jacket, due to location already has mittens in stock.

Play Dates For Grownups

2011-06-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

This is my first attempt at making paper fabric. Wow! I invited myself over to a new friend's house (I so have to stop doing that) and she graciously took me through the process of making paper fabric. She also provided most of the supplies as well as lunch on beautiful depression glass paired with the most lovely of vintage cloth napkins. My love of dishes and cloth napkins is legendary, so imagine my surprise to find a kindred spirit only an hour away. It is seldom that you find another person who you find such ease with and on such short acquaintance. I feel very blessed to have been able to spend six glorious hours, making and sharing thoughts and ideas with my new found friend. I have expectations of many more grown up play dates. The next time will be my treat, complete with the appropriate dishes and napkins! I will never look at paper the same way again. Thank you Katherine, for one of the very best of days.

Etsy Shop

2011-06-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

I have finally put things in my Etsy Shop. I can be found at scarletfields.etsy.com This is a beautiful silver pendant made by Lunt Sterling Company. It is dated on the back, Mother's Day 1973. I have no excuse for not trying to fill the store sooner, but having said that...well there you go. My husband is positive that I am just a complete chicken, afraid of success. Maybe he is right?

Another Perfect Day!

2011-06-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

As the story goes...I paint paintings in my entry way. My house is not really old, just drafty in the entry. My fingers would get cold and decide not to work properly, prompting me to make some fingerless gloves, which in turn I now sell as "Texting Mittens".

I began selling them last year; to be specific on December 19th. I lost track of how many I made and how many I sold. I had a terrific local boutique, "Wildflower" that carried them for me here in Evansville.

The owner of Wildflower, the fabulous Peggy Chastain, took them with her to market in Chicago last year and wore them around for all to see and admire. That trip my mittens took to Chicago has resulted in my first retail store outside of Indiana. Thank you to Peggy for sending "The Magic Jacket" my way! Thank you to Debbie Frank/Oowner, for your order of 12 pairs of texting mittens. You will have them the week of August 1st.

I am thrilled to be represented in the state of.....
drum roll please........Wisconsin!

To those of you who don't know about the texting mittens-they are made from re-purposed wool sweaters. My attempt at giving back to mother earth. I use vintage buttons, lace and trims to embellish them. They are one of a kind. They can be special ordered. They do have a thumb hole, to keep them in place. Yes, there is a manly version, however, they were placed in homes prior to their photos being taken.

I am so excited that I am sure I am leaving out important details. That is bound to happen when you are having yet another perfect day! My hope is that all of you out there are having your perfect day as well!!!

"She Carried The Ocean"

2011-06-14T06:39:00.000-07:00

I am a night time beach girl at best. I do miss being able to get to the ocean anytime I want. I miss the sound of the water. I miss the feeling of awe. In thinking about my yoga practice, it seems that our breath is very like the ocean tide. Nourishing inhales and detoxing exhales, ebbing and flowing like the sea. I will hold this thought in my heart today; "I am strong yet flowing like the sea, with patience and grace I will recieve the day's gifts". I will carry the ocean in my heart.

"She Was Such A Girl Scout"

2011-06-12T06:42:00.000-07:00

Another new cuff to show off. "She Was Such A Girl Scout", funny thing is: the whole time I was making the cuff, I thought the pin was a Boy Scout pin, not a Girl Scout pin. I guess I really do need those bifocal glasses after all. The leather cuff is repurposed, pearls and crystal are woven throughout the cuff. The flag is a vintage brass pin that was made by a Veteran and then sold on little cards, most likely made in the 70's.

As to my cuff, "Her Hands Were Tied" My friend Gina:

Gina wrote: "I absolutely love her. FABULOUS! But I expect no less from anything you do. The note cards were a lovely surprise. Thank you! Now I have an excuse to buy a whole new outfit to go with my cuff."

Again, many thanks to Gina Marie who gave my cuff an excellent home!

2011-06-11T02:20:00.000-07:00

My beautiful cuff "They Tied Her Hands" will most likely arrive at it's new home today. A very dear friend, Gina Marie, bought her the very day I posted her on line. I am so thrilled that she has found the perfect home. I had a great yoga class yesterday; as the student. I always feel so great after class and yesterday was no exception, Lezlie's special touch was also very appreciated. Delivered a ring to Ant Jenny this morning and Princess E chatted me up. Nobody can wear pink like Princess E. I left with a lovely bag of sweaters to felt, what a great morning! Many days and much sweat and my closet has been ruthlessly purged. Somehow, it still looks too full. I am tackling the shoes today. Yup, the shoes. Too many twisted ankles and broken toes to wear many of them, so I am passing them on for someone else to love (we will see how I do with that). Taking myself to the New Harmony Farmers Market this morning, a treat for almost having a clean house...my life is good.

Poor Neglected Blog

2011-06-10T04:51:00.000-07:00

Good Morning to my patiently waiting blog spot..

I only have lame excuses for not writing, so I will just beg forgiveness and move on. I have been working and making jewelry. This week, I have had a welcome, natural break in the schedule; so I have been sorting the gifts of discarded items that my friends have bestowed to me.

I am truly blessed in that I think I will need additional storage to accommodate all of the lovely things I have acquired. So very cool.

Here is a little sample of the things I have been working on lately...

How to Edit?

2010-10-21T15:32:00.000-07:00

Really, is there such a thing as a "how to edit" for a girl who loves all things that sparkle as well as all things that are more than a little loved, tattered and rusty? I've been shaking up my downstairs in anticipation of my "First Annual Black Friday Shopping and Desert Party". Let me just say, I have the most amazing ability to pack an enormous amount of goodies into such a small amount of space. This will be the third time I have attempted to edit dishware, OK, this time I didn't give up any dishes so I moved to glassware. All right, I didn't give up glassware either, well maybe two glasses.

My very best friend in the whole wide world, for the longest time gave me and my husband two beautiful champagne flutes for our wedding. My friend passed away within a year after I married. Since that time I have always used the champagne flutes to celebrate his birthday on October 31st, mine as well since its just a few days later. It occurred to me as I pulled them out of the cabinet that it seemed a shame that I only used them once a year. The exception being the year my best friend in Indiana married. I was honored to have their wedding reception at my home. The bride and groom used those special glasses to toast their new future together. A joyful use of the glasses and an excellent way to remember a lost friend.

That was several years ago and I find that I no longer need the glasses to remember my dear friend. I honor him in my heart and that is all that really matters, not the things left behind. As I was washing them and trying to decide if I could really "edit" them out of my life, I thought of the last time they were used joyfully. Owen and Celeste toasting to their new life together and to the blending of their two families as they became one. Now, one of their daughters, Laura is going to marry Michael and they will be toasting with the same champagne flutes, as my offer of flutes were accepted today from the bride to be. I am sure Jeff is looking down with approval.

So in the end, I did part with things that had been very special to me, but my heart still carries the memories and that in the end is really all that matters

New Roomie

2010-09-20T05:20:00.000-07:00

Imagine my complete surprise when I realized my studio has a new roomie...not a mouse this time, (thank heavens) but the chubbiest earthworm I have ever seen. I guess she has been living in my little terrarium since the spring and has finally grown large enough to see. I wouldn't have noticed her, except I have been noodling on what to do with the moss that has overgrown the little red mushroom that was lovingly planted in the middle of the jar. I keep looking at the glass jar and wondering what the proper procedure is for grooming a terrarium? I am sure Martha would know! I am delighted to have my new roomie's company and have decided to name her Lou-La-Belle. I think she will be a welcome source of inspiration.

Mid States Exhibit

2010-09-18T00:24:00.001-07:00

Well, here is one of the two entries in my attempt to be selected in the "Mid States" Exhibit, held at the Evansville Museum of Arts and Science. This piece is "Incubator", she is my first piece to have a lighting element (that actually works). She is a variation of an art box I did early this year entitled "Incubator of Dreams". Often I think my art boxes are a bit off putting to the viewer. My thought in creating "Incubator" was to make the piece an interpretation of the same subject in a more understandable presentation (a piece that looks more like a painting than a three dimensional piece) in the hope that it might be more viewer friendly.

She is an acrylic painting on board, with plenty of gold leafing for her halo. The box inset or the incubator itself, is an assortment of found objects. The photo used as the background is the working photo of the original art box "Incubator of Dreams". I have used, wire sod, wire grate, eggs, ribbon, mirror, rubber, found metal letters and let me not forget the lighting element. Many thanks to Katie Waters and Rob Millard Mendez who helped guide me in this first attempt.

Floral Lovelies

2010-09-16T04:18:00.001-07:00

Here is one of my newest creations, I call it the "Rocker Girl" cuff. Stones and Pearls and Leather and Crystals-oh my. Just for additional information, it doubles as a lovely weapon! LOL!! Getting ready for Funk in The City next weekend and don't want to do any of the mundane things that I am supposed to be doing...ie, housekeeping duties. I wish there was a magic cleaning fairy who would tidy up my house everyday and clean off my work desk every afternoon-wouldn't that be just the best! Well a person can dream!

I finally succumbed to the crud and visited with my physician yesterday. I won't exactly rant, but I find it appalling that my visit the same time last year cost me $75 and this year the same kind of visit cost $111. I mean please, I did get the discount for being "self insured" and I do understand that people need to be paid for their services. Four minutes of service for $111.00, maybe I too should raise my prices.....although on the other hand, I would prefer to continue selling my art, so maybe not.

The good news is that the crud will bow down to the pharmaceuticals within the next four days, I am very thankful for that!

Exploding Head Tuesday

2010-09-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, can you say 92 degrees on September 14th. The weekend was so fabulous that I really did get suckered into thinking fall was really in the air to stay. I wish the nastiness that I picked up from the office would leave my system for good-lingering head cold or just a respiratory infection that has taken up residence? Working on food donations for the "Holly Day" Bazaar. I have a really high bar to reach as the food last year for the artists and vendors is very fondly remembered-no pressure! Breakfast, lunch and snacks-oh my...

On a more traditional note, cleaning up and re-arranging furniture in my studio, yet again. I am in need of more blank wall space, so the re-purposed china cabinet is going back to its original job of storing dishes and the forlorn Hoosier bottom is going to become new flat surface to work on (minus the top). I am sure that is an arrangement that will last a month or two. LOL!

It's Monday again....

2010-06-14T06:11:00.000-07:00

I spent a lot of the weekend wondering if it is really possible for a person not to buy anything new and remain fashion forward. To re-phrase, can "I" be fashion forward and not buy anything new. Am I going to have to refrain from running out and buying all of the things I think I need or do I bite the bullet and see what it is really like to "make do" I was thinking about experimenting for a year and blogging my thoughts-mostly to keep me honest. I restructured my first garment this weekend. A white tee shirt that I got black paint on-why do I think white tee-shirts are so fabulous when I can't keep them white, I don't know... the shirt looks amazing. I did some reverse applique and some traditional applique. Thank you to the nice lady who helped me with the "buttonhole" thread. You were so right, the quilting thread worked out very nicely and was much less expensive. I think I will noodle on what the rules should be for my one year experiment. Let me know your thoughts.

Happy Sunday!

2010-06-06T07:02:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who came to the Brinker's event this weekend. It was so much fun seeing and catching up with so many people-boy am I blessed! I was able to spend a great day with a fellow artist/potter and his lovely fiance, I got myself some painting lesson hours, and the cutest little moss terrarium (yes that is a tiny little red mushroom). A very good friend dropped off a wonderful book for me to peruse over the weekend by Alabama Chanin-what a great surprise and very same good friend's husband offered to let me come and experiment with his wood lathe-how cool is that? It's good to be me!

Another nice thing about 1962

2010-06-03T04:17:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough this weekend to take pictures of my neighbor's very cool red Corvette. Just loaded them up this morning and here is one to share. She is in really good condition, original everything from what I could tell. It was so great to have her parked on the front lawn-the Queen of the weekend festivities. I often wonder about the stories she could tell and the adventures she has been on. Most of the time she stays tucked away safe and secure in the garage but when she goes out she is a real show off!!

Time Really Does Fly!!

2010-06-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

Its official, I have finished school and all of the loose ends have been tied up neatly and put into storage until I apply for grad school in the fall. So, for a little catching up about what I have been doing...making jewelry (who knew) and collecting fabric treasures that I then turn into custom couture pieces. Upcycled and recycled!

This is a wool and silk handbag that I made as a fund raiser for Holly's House, (here in Evansville). I will be selling the bags all year on line and at the second annual "Holly Days" event this fall.

I have been trudging my way through getting a website and the ability to accept credit cards (they call it "virtual merchant")-that has been a job in and of itself. I am not helped by the fact that while I am amazed at all the technology available to us, I am not any good at deciphering how to get from point "a" to point "b". Patience is required, also something I fall a bit short on.

I have been working on Yoga Teacher training via The Yoga Center. Training is not for the faint of heart, but well worth all that I have learned and the new freinds I have made. I have even been inspired to not only buy running shoes but to actually wear them for their intended purpose (thank you Susan).

PS... I am so excited about catching up with you!

Painting Material

2009-04-13T03:34:00.001-07:00

Easter Tulips...can't wait to start painting them!!

Fab Finds

2009-03-30T05:23:00.000-07:00

Purple and gold chandelier pendants! Treasures that cleaned up remarkably well. Poor things were pretty sticky (don't ask). I made it through the entire box of vintage trim that came from Granma and Auntie out in California. I have to say there must be hundreds of yards and no I am not exaggerating. It has all been washed and divided and is hanging all over the house to dry. Poor, poor hubby; this is what the house would look like if I ever wore pantyhose! I did get two pieces into the USI Student show. Two out of three, I will take! I believe the opening is the 5th, I will have to follow up on that. I have also committed to a "One Woman" Show; no point in going by half; life is too good

Here is another one!

2009-03-27T07:16:00.001-07:00

Buttons and copper and pearls-oh my!!!

Where have I been?

2009-03-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

Mostly nibbling on the bumper of my big truck when no one is looking. Just kidding! I have been playing in buttons and having so much fun, I cant believe it. I scored pristine vintage table cloths last weekend, sending one to granma for a fab apron (purple watering cans and pink garden glove motif) and the rest I am making yoga bags or handbags out of. Spring has finally sprung in Southern Indiana, I have my very first daffodil, which is always a happy sign. Entered the USI Art Show yesterday, looking forward to the opening on the 5th of April. Off to see the wizard....

Technology

2009-03-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

Its a very funny day when I am helping my friends on the computer!! Been playing in buttons and making pretty things, so happy it finally feeling like SPRING!!!

Button Jewelry

2009-03-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

Here we go....I am showing off my new favorite thing to do!

Old buttons, vintage re purposed glass beads and a old chandelier bauble. Who knew it could be so much fun!!!

Time Change Monday!

2009-03-09T13:30:00.000-07:00

I have a love hate relationship with the time change. My body wants the time to be the same all the time, but I love that we have light later in the day. I have gone completely off the reservation this past week, I made a button and vintage glass bead necklace; I have to do something with all of those buttons. The girls at "Busy Beads",;have been extremely patient as well as gracious. I always have ideas but not sure about how to make them happen-I just know it when I see it. Thanks to them for letting me have so much fun in their fabulous shop. Making a piece of jewelry is much more of an instant gratification. Oil paint takes forever to dry and my boxes sometimes take months before the perfect part arrives. Needless to say, Busy Beads is a treat I am keeping

Artful Thursday

2009-03-05T12:02:00.000-08:00

Thursday is now my favorite day of the week! I adore my painting class, I love the people in the class, and the instructor is an absolute gift of a gal! Class isn't nearly long enough, it flies by and when I leave class I feel like I am on the tippy top of the world. No bad thing to be me on Thursday. I left the museum after class and went to hang my work at Penny Lane Coffee House. The show has an opening reception on Saturday from 2-4. There is some amazing work there already, I can't wait to see it all of the work installed. I think there are two more artists to go, very exciting.

The whole entire Richardson family made it home yesterday, they are now a family of 4 (six if you count the fur balls) with the addition of Grant. Congratulations to them!

My "Hot Flash" tiara is top heavy, so the paper doll is doing some serious leaning forward. She looks like she is trying to lunge out of the box and directly at you (if she were really having a hot flash that might be the case). Naturally that leaning thing is not going to work, so I have been noodling around today, trying to figure out how to get her back in balance and keep her fabulous crown in place.

On another note entirely. I was whining to my friend Celeste about how incredibly uncoordinated I was in my Pilate's class. She calmly pointed out that it didn't matter because I could wear really, really impossibly high heels and pull off looking completely graceful. Did I mention we will be friends for life?

Gifts of Love

2009-03-04T10:07:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! I am giving my dear friend Karen's daughter her supply of "Thank You" notes for her upcoming wedding events. I knew that they were working on a budget (aren't we all) and wanted to do something special for her and her soon to be hubby (August 22nd). So, I had a chat with the bride to be this morning and will be creating some original note cards for her. So many ideas spring to mind!!

I heard a really great "give it up for Lent" idea-"I will be giving up excuses"!! Is that a great thing to give up or what! I'm not Catholic, but I have been using it on myself this week, particularly in the morning. Its cold and dark in the morning and I don't want to get out of bed to go to the gym. I find that every morning I consciously think of at least a half a dozen reasons to stay in bed-all excuses. Believe me, I have been really creative and am being conservative on the half dozen! I have been making it to the gym. I am really uncoordinated and seemingly do not know my right from my left. I cant decide if I am really all that bad (most likely) or if I just don't listen well to instructions( really likely)...maybe a bit of both (very, very likely).

I received an invite to "Hogs House Gallery". Those who know me best, will know that I love the name! It really was a Hog place and has been "re-purposed" as a gallery. I can't wait to see it!!

I've been pretending to figure out "Face Book", entertaining to say the very least. Can I just say "Where's the Wall?"

Life in the Big City!

2009-03-03T12:21:00.001-08:00

Mrs. Hot Flash is taking longer than expected to get dressed; her box is done-FINALLY!!! I borrowed an idea from Sharon's husband and used wire and fabric together for her base that she is perched on. The little base is now perfect-thanks to "D". I did, however, safely misplace the little glitter matchsticks, (the safe place completely escaped me, until five minutes ago). So, I will be completing her tiara and she will be all finished, just in time for the next exhibit!

Weekend was very busy! Gave Gizmo a bone, that he swallowed and proceeded to be sick. I of course, thought I had killed him. Saturday night I couldn't sleep, for fear he was sick, choking or couldn't breath, every time he made a peep. It was a great surprise Sunday morning to find that I had made the social page in the newspaper, (Life in the Big City). I have to share, as it was just the best; "Scarlet Fields' mixed media three-dimensional piece "To Be" was totally fun and whimsical".

Nancy, Jack and Kelley write the "Out and About" portion of the Evansville Courier and Press; our local newspaper. I have never met any of the three of them, and I was so excited that they "Got" the piece. The funny thing about shows is that people aren't usually brave enough to ask about the piece during the opening reception and it is not conventional to have an explanation next to your piece to help the viewers along. 70 Artists are represented with 90 pieces, what an honor to have mine noticed.

Oh yes, Gizmo is just fine and grounded from bones for the rest of his life!

Living Out Loud!

2009-02-27T07:11:00.000-08:00

Here are two girls who used to know how to really "Live Out Loud"! Somehow life gets in the way of really living. We don't spend enough time with the people we love, doing the things we really love to do. I want to work harder at living my life instead of my life living me....

I am so thankful its Friday! I am starting to feel that way every Friday...that can't possibly be good. I am loving my painting class at the Museum with Connie, she is such a generous spirit. I am feeling very blessed that our paths crossed. I am currently painting on seven different canvas pieces of various sizes. Mostly exploring the medium of oil paint itself. I am getting over the obstacle of the drying time, hard for me to believe! The trick for me is to have more than one or two pieces going at a time. Down side to that, I am daydreaming about painting when I am not painting.

All of my "official transcripts' have finally shown up in the mail, so I can move on to finishing up that resume of mine. I just hate having unfinished projects that fall into "being a grownup" category of things to do. However, it must be done, so I will press forward on that project.

Hoping to attend an auction in the morning, weather permitting; maybe even if weather doesn't permit. I find that if the weather is not so good, stuff goes for less (always good). Went to a fabulous consignment shop yesterday in Newburgh, Indiana. It was spectacular! Everything was color as well as size and season coordinated. It didn't smell bad, and the proprietress was absolutely charming. I will be going back just as soon as I take a bit of an inventory of my own!

Thanks to my friend Celeste B for the fab lunch and much needed girlfriend time. Too bad we forgot to pick out the paint for her kitchen cabinets!! Oh well, guess another girlfriend day is in store.

All About Marketing

2009-02-25T11:48:00.000-08:00

Whew! There seems to be something in the air, that is causing many bad moments for me and several people around me. The trend seems to be over, hopefully as of yesterday afternoon. I have been reading and reading and reading on marketing "oneself" as an artist. Should I be an "Artist for Hire"? Should I be the girl who puts "Art In Your Life"? Should I be selling fellow "Artist's" work? Should I do an "Art Consult" in your home or office? I know, I know; I should be doing all of that...so guess what! I am. Working on a website now, or should I say I am researching how to build a website. Websites for dummies-you get the general idea. There are several people in my life who wonder what the hold up has been, those would be the people who know how lacking I am in the world of tech.

Been painting away, here at work (don't tell the boss). Writing on "Why there have never been any "Great" women artist's"; don't get me started. The paper is for class so I will be unable to go full rant. Boy, could I (rant that is)!

The gallery that was showing my work lost their rent agreement unexpectedly, I had to hear about it from the newspaper. All is well, in that I have all of the pieces in the back of my big truck. I was accepted in the "Inspired Women In Art" Show. I have one piece in the show, "To Be"; a self portrait. The Women's Hospital is located: 4199 Gateway Blvd., Newburgh, Indiana. I have three pieces going up at "Penny Lane Coffee House"; located: 600 SE Second Street, Evansville, Indiana. We will be hanging the "Through the Eyes of a Goddess" show on Sunday, March 3rd, just in case you want to come by, say hello, and partake of large quantities of coffee. Opening reception for "Through the Eyes of a Goddess" is on March 7th.

Changes

2009-02-17T12:19:00.000-08:00

Seems to be the theme running through many of our lives lately...as I struggle with my lease and business (not the art business, still trying to move that forward); I guess I feel some comfort knowing that others are struggling as well. It makes the world seem smaller and less of a lonely place. I just have to share this post-Jack and Cat Curio: Changes, Changes, Changes

I have been madly working on a slide presentation of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Can I just say, technology is wonderful! I will share as soon as I am finished, maybe a couple of weeks. I think the culmination of the work can be seen in this photo that I have borrowed from Ken Mensack of ken215photography/Flickr. OK, so I am not so good at moving photos around...sorry Ken!

Resume Hell

2009-02-05T11:12:00.000-08:00

Yes, that is where I am right now. I took a wonderful class last night. The instructor was a former electric engineer...he was wonderful. I, however am not wired that way. I am looking for a more creative resume, not exactly an executive resume Back to the drawing board for me and the sun is really shining today!

Being a Grown Up-Help Wanted

2009-02-04T10:18:00.000-08:00

I am in the middle of creating a new resume for myself. I would liken the experience to trying on a bathing suit or trying to find a new bra. I am not any good at tooting my own horn and have a really hard time trying to make myself look good on paper (unless it is a paper collage of some sort, and yes a mixed medium format has crossed my mind). I have checked out dozens of "how too" books, I have been on line for samples. I have looked up "artist bio", "artist statement" on line self help resume sites...thus far to no avail. I am off to a one hour class at a local church this afternoon in hope of some enlightenment. Resumes seem like one of those seriously grown up and be responsible things, like making out a will. I guess my frame of mind is obvious, thank goodness tomorrow is another day! LOL

Day 3

2009-01-29T11:32:00.001-08:00

I don't think I ever thought about what color cold is? I think it is a shade of blue. I noticed that in all of the weather pictures I have taken, there is a chilly blue cast. It was sunny for just a bit yesterday which was helpful, since we were without power. Today is very overcast and very cold, with more snow on that way. Rumor has it that we will be melted off by Saturday. I must say I am soooo looking forward to Saturday!

Day 2 and Counting

2009-01-29T11:12:00.001-08:00

Have I ever mentioned that I am not a big "Weather" fan? We were without power yesterday, no electric and no heat. As the day went on and we were still without the basics, I am afraid that I become increasingly grumpy. Everything I wanted to do either required lighting or a glue gun. So, too keep busy I cleaned for a while, then I decided to give in and take a nap. It was candle lighting time when I finally removed myself from the igloo made of blankets and puppies. Lucky for me I hoard candles sticks and we had plenty. Hubby and I snuggled in to read books by candlelight. We only had to read by candlelight until about 6:30 PM; what a relief! It took till about 8:00 PM to figure out the continuing lack of heat; but all worked out well. There are many, many trees down. We lost a good chunk of one of the two trees in the front yard. Unfortunately, the branch was well into the street (and super heavy with all of the snow and ice), so hubby had to cut it up to move it (this is while I was napping). The next door neighbors tree is giving a good fight, you can see that it is leaning into the fireplace chimney, but the limbs haven't broken yet, I hope they don't, the tree is absolutely gorgeous. The snow and ice have dragged down numerous trees and power lines and in general everything is a mess. The mail hasn't run and the newspaper man and stayed at home (smart thinking). The front of my house looks charming in the snow...looks can be deceiving!!

Baby, It's COLD Out There!

2009-01-27T15:22:00.000-08:00

Ice and Snow and Ice and Ice and Ice

2009-01-27T10:13:00.000-08:00

I know its winter; however, I am so over winter already. The ice started here about 9:30 last night, it woke me up off and on all night long. I hate weather of any kind, I find it creepy. The ground this morning was so hard that the puppies didn't even make a mark when they went out for their morning constitution. I had to drag Gizmo (he is the young one) back into the house, he was very intrigued and was beginning to turn into an "icekimo".

I had a ridiculously excellent Saturday morning. I found a junk store that sells by the pound! Really, by the pound!! They had scads of double deluxe wallpaper books that had been abandoned. I tore out all of the cool papers I wanted, gorgeous, fabulous, yummy papers. I found an old champagne box, and some lovely fabric remnants. Fifteen bucks, buys you 25 pounds of "Stuff". I have 8 pound of "Stuff" left on my "Pound Pass"!! The little shop is only open from 9-12 on Saturdays, guess I know where I will be for the next few Saturdays.

My friend Tresa, who has a fabric store-Grateful Threads-was having a sale and I helped to unload some of her inventory of smallish pieces. I was waiting to meet her dad, who was in for the weather (just kidding) and decided that all of the little piece would make great eyeglass covers. So, on Saturday afternoon I made 27 eyeglass covers out of a wondrous assortment of embroidered silk, tapestry, paisley, check, plaid, metallic and one piece of wierd faux leather. They are absolutely gorgeous and will be for sale at "Grateful Threads" as soon as the ice melts. Tresa is always on the look out for ways to make money donations to the MS Association and part of the proceeds from the eyeglass covers might be just the ticket!!

Saturday afternoon, I also got a call that my artwork had been accepted at "Penny Lane's" for a showing of women's artwork. Show is in March, six artists, three pieces from each of us. Pretty cool! Many thanks to the owner; Heidi K.

Now I am off to make lemonade of the rest of my day!!!

Happy Friday

2009-01-23T06:24:00.001-08:00

I have had the best week! Dinner with Tracy was big fun and very informative. I had much to noodle on and couldn't get to sleep until after midnight. The Dean at USI has very graciously allowed me to add a needed class at the third week mark. My dear friend Kate, clocked out of her part time job just to have a glass of tea with me while I ate lunch yesterday (I could have eaten a car bumper). I am feeling so very blessed and today is Friday, which of course is just the beginning of who know what kind of adventures for the weekend.

Looks like I will be writing my first paper for class on "Tiffany", oh boy, won't that just be horrible! I am so excited, and apparently there must have been some Karma there, because the topic had previously been assigned to someone who didn't want him (go figure), so lucky me (again).

Took my first oil painting class at the Evansville Museum yesterday, that was really fun. The class is small and the instructor; Connie Rae Bell, is just the right amount of serious. I used every brush I had, I tend to do everything in a speedy manner and oil isn't very speedy. None the less, I finished a small, semi respectable, scene from straight out of my head. I know there are so many things wrong with that last sentence. It is completely evident that I will need more brushes, as I don't like the paint to mix together, again a bit difficult with the slow speed of drying. Forgot my camera at home so I didn't get pictures, but will get that accomplished this next week.

I hope everyone has a wonderful and very creative weekend!!

Up from the Dead

2009-01-21T10:23:00.000-08:00

Happy to be up and moving and doing art and posting. It has been a dreadful couple of weeks. I am originally from California and since I have moved to the Midwest, I am sick from October through mid April. This year, I thought I had beat being ill, but low and behold, right before Christmas-BAM!!! Same junk every year, respiratory stuff. I went AWOL on the antibiotics after my third round (the last at 12.00 a tablet). Well, turns out I am low on vitamin D. I am happy to say I am now heavily "D"-eeed up! What a relief. I am so happy to feel fabulous and not just go through the motions or worse yet, not go through the motions; and its only January! YIPPY-SKIPPY!!!!!!

As a complete aside, I lost the paper doll for my "Hot Flash" piece. Temporary of course, but stressful, none the less. Worked on the exterior sides and back last night. Still haven't found all of the perfect items. Very, very close. I have used some vintage jewelry and vintage cigar bands on the exterior. Moving the exterior from hot to coolish in the very back. Taking my first oil painting class tomorrow, missed the class last week due to the zero degree weather. Not so good for my ear infection, so inside I stayed.

I have decided to go back to college to finish my BA; can I say getting through the three inch file has taken up a day or so this week. It's hard when you originally started in 1980. Change of course catalog, don't you know. I quit as a Senior in 1983, not so smart. Ugggg. However, I don't need that many units to finish and I must have really good Karma-I applied for an exciting internship possibility yesterday, that I didn't know existed. I have my fingers crossed!

Having dinner tonight with the fabulous Tracy Zeller. She started her own business several years ago, doing the very thing she loved. I contacted her right before Christmas, possibly her busiest time of year (jewelry) and she very graciously made arrangements to have dinner with me so I could pick her brain. Lucky, lucky me!

Christmas Cards

2009-01-08T11:06:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the belated photos of the hanging cards I made for Friends. Naturally they haven't received them yet (leaning toward a "Christmas Month-kinda like "Birthday Month"). Good news or bad, not sure, but these three girls aren't blog followers, so posting them is a OK! I went to a yard sale several years ago and bought this great plywood boxes, they sold the whole group to me. I think there were 25 or 30 in all. The boxes had lids and sometimes my boxes don't need lids and naturally I couldn't just throw them out. So I made these little hanging plaques-I actually like them. There are vintage buttons, old lace pieces, velvet ribbon remnants, pieces from vintage cards, old sheet music and lots of gold and silver paint! Funny enough, I thought that a two dimensional piece would be easier or should I say faster to make. Silly me, I still had to find parts....LOL! Have a Creative Day!! S

Jewelry Giveaway

2009-01-07T08:35:00.000-08:00

Yes, its true!! Sharon Henry of Mana Moon Studios is getting ready to celebrate her 1,000th jewelry creation. Lucky us! Do yourself a little favor and sign up for her giveaway -here is the link Mana Moon Studios: Something Big a Brewin'
For a big dose of inspiration and gorgeous eye candy, mosey on over to her new website: manamoon.com (yes, you can sign up for the jewelry give away through her website as well). Good Luck! Many congratulations for such a "BIG" Milestone!!!

Debut-John Fields

2009-01-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Here is my fabulous husband! I had to give him some blog time. He wanted to know why the puppies made it on the blog before he did...mostly it never occurred to me that he would want a photo of himself out in the blog world; here it is.

Yes, for those of you who know him as well as I do, that is a novel in his lap. He blazed through a whole James Patterson novel yesterday. Hard to believe that when he asked me to marry him, he refused to promise to keep me in books! He even broke down and got his own library card. I keep telling people that he had hip surgery and when he came out of the hospital someone else was in his body! All joking aside, he is a huge support for me and all the crazy things I want to do. I am truly blessed-XOXO honey!!!

Inner Diva

2009-01-06T08:28:00.000-08:00

Here is a little 4 X 4. I finally completed it over the weekend. The little swirls are black sequins that I painstakingly cut off of an elastic trim, that I seem to have just oodles of. I had been looking for the perfect thing, and there is was right in the trim box...the trim is something my grandmother got from somewhere, I have two bolts. OK, really; I don't need to two perfect bolts of 1970's, one inch, stretchy, black sequin trim. I have had it for at least ten years and have used it only on two projects, I used the trim in its original state. I finally decided to tear a piece of trim up, four sequins across, so it only took about six inches and I have sequins to spare. I love them on the swirly things-they are just the detail I was searching for. The background is acrylic paint. I adhered a piece of a sewing pattern over the paint with gloss gel medium. My Diva is from a magazine advertisement that I clipped sometime over the summer-I love the big, dark sunglasses, and the giant hat. The feather is a real feather attached with gloss gel medium, the feather is from an old beat up Mardi Gras mask, found at a yard sale. I kept the thing only for the feathers, you know they are getting harder and harder to come by.

On another note, I was a good girl and went to my Pilate's class this morning....I met another artist. Cynthia Watson. She was also being a very good girl. I had heard of her, but I had never met her, so that was big fun. She makes lovely pendants from used coffee filters-how cool is that? Not to mention the pendants she had with her were absolutely gorgeous. I am looking forward to getting to know her better!

My Puppies

2009-01-05T08:34:00.000-08:00

Here are my puppies in their new chair. Molly is on the second floor, she is nine and Gizmo is on the first floor, he is a year and a half. Notice Gizmo is perched on a new pillow I made-cut velvet no less. He does have good taste!

We were given Gizmo just when he had turned one. The original owner couldn't keep him. We gladly took him, however we didn't know how thin he was until we had him for a day or two. He was smaller than Molly when we got him, now he can stand over the top of her and not touch the top of her back. He has developed a new personality, he is extremely clumsy, hungry all the time and adore's Miss Molly; who mostly just tolerates his presence. He is also of the opinion that if my husband and I get in the car, that is where he should be getting himself to as well.

Finished up several projects. 3 D Christmas plaques, for my girlfriends. Completed my first "comfort doll, she is beautiful although a little unbalanced. The second one is ready for stitching together for stuffing, the second one was much easier than the first and I am guessing that the third one will be a piece of cake. I made gorgeous button and paper clip magnets for my wall calendar. With all of the buttons I have you would have thought that would have been easily accomplished, but the size I had to use to make it all work was very specific and I couldn't bear to cut off the shank of a button to use it as a magnet! I finished two 4 X 4 pieces that hadn't been just right. I didn't manage to find anything for my hot flash box...I just know it will come to me this week!

Hot Flash!

2009-01-03T06:16:00.001-08:00

I have been working on this box since before Christmas. I just hate it when I have an idea and it has to come to a complete and utter stand still because I am missing parts! The box itself I have been saving since it was opened on New Year's Eve 1999-the bottle was emptied by my cousins and me. It was the start of a very good year. I picked up the paper, just because; horded said paper until this box idea. The paper doll I found in a game box, misplaced I am sure by the original owner. Yes, the matches really are covered in ruby red glitter. I couldn't pass up the opportunity for glitter! I am really needing something to indicate heat, something(s) really small and relatively inexpensive, I need a lot of whatever it is. I just know, I will know it when I see it-however I would prefer sooner rather than later. If you think of something I can use, please don't hesitate to share, I am starting to go a little crazy. Have a terrific Day!!!

December's PJ Strike Is Over!

2009-01-02T08:44:00.000-08:00

I have borrowed heavily from my blogging friend "Josh" of original "PJ Strike" fame. I spent the entire month of December in a work related stupor. I didn't stay in Malibu Feathers the whole month, but my favorite flannel PJ's were involved about 90% of the time.

My catatonic frame of mind in regards to my perceived "real job" is finally at a standstill if not a permanent outage. I have been noodling for the last six months or so about what I do for a living. I love the job. The people I have to surround myself with; not so much. The stress in unbelievable and available for pick up 24/7. Stress follows me home, clouds my relationships and sucks the creative life right out of me.

I have spent a whole lot of time talking myself out of taking any "next step". manamoon-studios.blogspot-Sharon Henry has more than once commented that you have to start, and little by little making art will be all you do.

The creative people I have connected with on line, has made the "talking myself out of (anything)" much more difficult to do (thank goodness).

At the end of the day, the little steps made everyday will now be my new focus. I'm a bull in a china cabinet so small steps aren't so easy for me to adhere to. Suffice it to say that I have finally talked myself out of talking myself out of making art for a living. Lucky, Lucky ME!!!!

Thanks to all of the blogger's out there who are helping me along on this journey-you know who you are!

Many blessings in 2009-Scarlet

Art on the Road

2008-12-07T01:35:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been taking continuing education courses this week so I can keep my business license in the state of Indiana. Trapped in a really chilly basement, eight plus hours a day and stuck in a hotel the rest of the time. The first night at the hotel, I spilled a container of seed beads in the bed. I started laughing so hard, trying to round them all back up again, imagining what in the world the poor housekeeping person would think about the beads in the bed...Who really tries to stitch with beads, while lounging in bed anyway!

I have been wondering about this couple that I found in an auction box. New Harmony auction of course. I am so overdue for the auction next Saturday, but my little buddie, Conner is having his first birthday party and I have been lucky enough to be invited, and of course I must attend the celebration of his birth! I bought him his first crayons; the kind that look like little eggs. I am sure it's a bit too soon for crayons (at least for most people), but really can you ever start making art too soon? That would be a great big-NO!

I woke up night before last and had a fabulous idea for a Christmas card. I have never wanted to make a Christmas card before, so I don't know what came over me at 2am. I woke up at my daughter's house and remembered why I like to have a sketch book by the bed! Now this morning as I was waiting for everyone to wake up, and happily making Christmas cards, I wondered why I didn't take the time to make them before. Yes, the cards are time consuming, but so are holiday cookies! I am not making that many cards, but really, they will be suitable for framing and how much fun will that be? I think almost as fun as cookie dough, but with a longer shelf live.

Play Day Saturday

2008-11-22T09:26:00.000-08:00

So happy to be alive on a fabulous Saturday morning!! Here is my studio "Guard Dog". Found him in the attic, last time I was up there, his name is: Blog Dog. I think I will have him keep everyone away from me this weekend. So much to do during the week that there is never enough time just for play. I have a really urgent need to play. I woke up in the night last night (the whole too hot thing) and worked on hot flash piece. Noodling on a crown of sorts, I can almost see it in my head, but not quite yet. Would two crowns be too many?

Happy Friday!!

2008-11-21T09:10:00.000-08:00

Shoe Fetish Series. This is a close up shot of the interior of this little box. Yes, that is gold leaf that I painstakingly applied with a soft Japanese brush. I think it is the perfect background for these little Mary Jane's. The interior of the shoes were pretty worn, so I applied glitter to the inserts, time consuming but well worth it. I used feathers like wings, because we all know that a good pair of girlie shoes will make us feel like we can fly!

I saved this little Kewpie doll from being run down in the road, she fell off a box, that was in the back of a truck. I very seldom use the entire doll, but in this case I wondered...do dolls secretly envy one another, do little pudgy Kewpie dolls really long to be tall, tan and blond; Malibu Barbie? Maybe Barbie threw her from the back of the truck for trying to borrow her shoes? So-this is Malibu Kewpie wishing to be Malibu Barbie.

Here is the winner for "Hot Flash 2008". Her box is almost ready. I decided to use a champagne box from 1993-Dom no less. I lined it with flocked red damask paper. I am doing a gorgeous crown of matchsticks, tipped in red glitter. There are some burgundy feathers needing a home and this could be it. Edging the box with mirrors this afternoon and when she is finished she will be box number 6 out of 52. Sounds a bit daunting on this end of the numbers, maybe I should say 46 to go-LOL

Have a CREATIVE weekend!!

Inspirations

2008-11-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

Here is part of my inspiration board in my studio. This is a little dress that my grandmother made my doll so she could match me when we went out for the day. The dress is pretty much exactly like mine. My cousin had a dress made the same as well, not sure if she had her doll dressed the same, but as for me and my dolls we looked alike when possible! My grandmother has always been amazing at creating something from whatever is on hand. With the economy the way it is, I find myself stretching a little more to use what I have on hand. Heaven only knows I have plenty to work with, especially now that I can find it. I am extremely blessed to be able to look at my board and wonder; "What would Grandma use"?

Day Behind Posting

2008-11-19T11:23:00.000-08:00

Here are canvas pieces in process, invention being the mother of necessity...flat spaces at a premium so the wall seemed a good place to hang things waiting to dry in between steps. As an added bonus, they are right in front of me, giving me more opportunity to noodle! I have been absolutely busy, busy, busy-making stuff. I think one of the harder things to manage is getting the pictures taken fast enough to post. I just can't make myself post a good art piece with a bad picture. Unfortunately that does cause a bit of delay, OK a big delay. All in the learning curve!

Junk Style Diva

2008-11-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

OK, you must know that a name with "Diva" included would of course be right up my alley! Well you absolutely must see what a fabulous honor she has bestowed on me...

http://www.junkstylediva.blogspot.com/

I had no idea when I started to blog, how much fun I would have meeting people on line! It also didn't really occur to me that other like minded people would like my blog, much less my art. So, what an absolute delight to find myself on her blog yesterday morning.

You also must check her out at http://www.junkstylediva.esty.com/

The Esty shop is where I originally found her, I was wondering around in different shops and found this one. I'm pretty greedy and could almost have one of everything in her shop!

I could have a million pincushions if I only had enough space! I would definitely add these two charming little things!! Anybody reading-HINT! HINT!

Proof of Clean Studio

2008-11-17T10:32:00.000-08:00

Here is proof of my ever so clean and has been for three weeks-happy art making studio spot! Every little thing in its very own home. Labels galore and projects in process that I can actually find. I am using scrape booking paper storage boxes for future art box pieces that don't have all of their individual parts yet. I just labeled the storage boxes with the name of the future art box and stacked them on the same shelf for easy finding.

Here is the abalone shell with a new use...scraps of things that aren't where they need to be yet. Currently holding a picture from a sewing instruction book, Venus of Wilendorf and a button card that has had the middle cut out for a future photo as yet to be found, there is also a scrap of a music book that is so old I just couldn't bare to throw it a way. When the abalone shell is full, I have to stop whatever I'm doing and find permanent homes for everyone in the abalone shell...really, its working so far.

This is a hand painted purse that holds brushes. Another little thing that I couldn't part with. I have the purse hanging on the wall so I don't have to take up any flat work spaces

Here is a collection of cups from various auctions. The little creamer that looks like a house; belonged to my great grandmother. I just love that I can look at the little creamer whenever I want, I don't think it will ever be used for an art box.

Finally, all of my buttons!! One place, all separated-color, size, material, good buttons, not so good buttons, vintage buttons, buttons for garments, buttons for art and buttons I will never part with. I cant believe I never got around to sorting them all out sooner, they are all so beautiful and now that they are so tidy I can show them off!

A friend of mine, gave me the sign "Goddesses Gather Here". I have been making a point of starting and ending my day here in my little spot where I create. I didn't realize that you could "nest" in your creative space, but that is indeed what I am doing.

Tagged!

2008-11-04T09:14:00.001-08:00

I was tagged several weeks ago ( October 20th) and have been on a complete freak out ever since! I am so new at blogging and technology is not my forte and good grief I have such a tough act to follow.... so here goes...

First the rules
1. Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2.Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by including links to their blosgs.
4.Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogs.

Here are my seven things.

1. I was born and raised in California and lived there until I married my husband. Six months later we moved to the Mid-West. Just in time for the Oklahoma City bombing. We had been in Oklahoma City for about a week or so and were on our way downtown to pick up my car. The experience changed my perspective on people helping one another-in a good way.

2. I believe Chocolate is the most important food group (I do know it isnt a "real" food group, but hey it is my list).

3. I am afraid of failure so I never achieve real success.

4. I am not brave but have aspirations...

5. I married my husband and our daughters and it was the best personal choice I have ever made. My husband puts up with me and all of my quirks! Lucky me, I couldnt possibly have two more beautiful, intelligent, strong, giving or talented daughters. Did I mention our daughters are gorgeous?

6. I love Madonna-every version (Much to my husband's dissappointment).

7. I dissected my first doll about 30 days ago. I usually buy dolls that are already broken up, however, when I decided to do a self portrait, I took apart one of my own dolls. I am sure if my Aunt is reading this she is having a spell. I think that doll parts are like abandoned love and I like to make homes for the lost pieces I find; if I can.

I am not known to follow rules, exactly, so I am borrowing from manamoon.blogspot.

The Luna Award for spreading the Light of Hope and Inspiration.

This award goes to anyone who brightens our days through their wonderfully written, deeply inspiring, often comical and unending, hopeful blog posts. So without further adieu, here are the the authors and blogs I follow for inspiration...

http://www.manamoon.blogspot.com/

http://www.jackandcatcurio.blogspot.com/

http://www.hophopjingleboo.blogspot.com/

http://www.junkstylediva.blogspot.com/

http://www.girl-gone-thread-wild.blogspot.com/

http://www.hollylovesart.blogspot.com/

http://www.lisabebi.blogspot.com/

Each recipient should post an image of the award along with the person who they recieved it from. They should then pass the award on to seven others whose writing fills them with Hope and Inspiration. Thanks to all of you! Scarlet

Part and Parts and Legs and Arms

2008-10-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

This really should have been posted prior to the last post. To the left is box parts-maybe anatomy parts are more fitting as a description. My poor husband woke up early morning to find these parts on the kitchen counter. Bless his heart, he was a bit creeped out; he hadn't even had the luxury of the first cup of coffee. You have to know how blessed I am that my husband is able to go with my artistic bend of the moment. He has been very encouraging even though he mostly doesn't get anything I do. A few weeks ago he suggested that I paint something and really "wow" the folks out there. I just purchased 20 or so canvases, so stay tuned to see what is in the works (yes, I am taking my significant other's suggestion-he doesn't know). I replaced "Once Upon A Time" this morning at ONB-a viewer had pulled part of the shoes off, so a re-do was a must. I woke up last night in my usual sweat ( I know more information than you need), and came up with a box idea. Are you ready? Are you sure? "Hot Flash". I have the perfect 1940's vintage paper doll just screaming to be my hot flash queen! I cant wait-and yes matches will be involved along with some red glitter! I think it is safe to say it will be posted on Monday! I don't know about everyone else but thank heavens it is finally Friday-LOL

Time Flying By...

2008-10-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

Here is the very bottom half of "Too Be". Just a little time taking flight at just the right moment. I love that the clock is nesting in the softest fur; ever. I seem to be obsessed with time and the forms it takes, including the lack of...

Here we are close up and personal. I know that in movies the crazy, psycho killer, chops up the doll into teeny, tiny pieces-news flash-it is not easy! I had to use a serrated knife and huge amounts of energy to do a little reconstructive surgery on "Ms. Thing"

This a close up of the right hand door of this piece. The top card is a busy bee, working, working and working. The middle card is from the art piece "Chance" that is currently patiently waiting on a magazine submission. The last card is my wish to be courageous and more like my favorite artist Ann.

This is a close up of the left door. The top card holds the description of an object-which is how I feel I started. The second card is a collage of artists I liked in college. The last card is photo of my own personal eight ball, the kind you would ask questions to; as a kid, shake the eight ball and read what it had to say on the bottom. I laid it on top of a road map, the flip side has a grade card from my first art class in college. I know, really, who keeps that stuff?

Here she is in the atrium at the ONB Building. Not a very good photo, too late in the afternoon for photos. I really love this piece and am not entirely sure that it is complete. I think it is the only piece I have ever done that has something to do with me and my life specifically. I thought that being an artist was one thing in my twenties, another in my thirties and as each day passes I find myself defining "artist' in different and more meaningful ways. Now that I am meeting artists on line and reading blogs from other artists, I am amazed how much we are all the same in our efforts. Some of us are much braver than others and age does not seem to be the deciding factor. For me, I want to pass on the gift I have to others, whether is through my art or encouragement to others to make their art.

Chocolate Pumkins

2008-10-13T13:50:00.000-07:00

I did a lot of stuff that needed to be done and hadn't been done in quite some time. OK, that could also be an excuse not to enter the disaster area, lovingly referred to as "studio". The biggest thing I did on Saturday was to make these fabulous cakes that look like little pumpkins. No, that was not on the "to be done" list. Not my idea of course, a "Southern Living" idea-plucked from one of the endless supplies of magazines a friend of mine drops off to me almost weekly. Oh, my; oh my!! I had trouble finding marzipan-I do live in a small mid western town. I'm sure I went looking in all of the wrong places, when I finally found it, I didn't care how much it cost (always bad)! I didn't have a pan large enough, so I had to bake two separate batches of mini bundt cakes, which means I had four left over cakes-hubby loved that. I made my first chocolate glaze, I would have done it sooner but I had some crazy idea that it was too complicated for me. Easy Peasy-go make some! PS-I will be happy to pass along the recipe.

SOLD!!

2008-10-13T13:27:00.003-07:00

Look who sold over the weekend! This is "I'm Your Venus". She is part of the ONB exhibit. She is a part of someones Vegas souvenir collection. She was attached to a pipe with the inscription "Pipe Dream". I cut her off her pipe stand with my little craft drill tool-smelly work-kinda like a bad dental procedure. I then placed her in a golden tub of clear glass marbles, with the obligatory shell for the sake of modesty. Her backdrop of course is Botticelli's' Venus. Thank you so much to the person who purchased the piece-and thank you for not taking her home until I had taken pictures!!!!!

Whew!!

2008-10-07T14:11:00.001-07:00

I am so glad the ONB pieces are on their little pedestals and just waiting for comments. Seven pieces in all, "Another Embarrassing Moment" had a little accident on the way and is awaiting repairs. Naturally, I have not taken photos as per usual. Shame on me! I have such an aversion to picture taking for some reason-I want everything to be just right or I don't want to take the picture. Not really a particularly good way to do things. Something would be better than nothing and all that...

My studio now officially looks like a bomb has gone off. I have parts everywhere and there just aren't enough flat spots. Food for thought, take that Hoosier out and replace it with shelves and a long work shelf on top of some kind of small cubbie storage shelving. Everything I work with is so small, even when you contain stuff it still has to go someplace. I think this is going to require a bit of space planning-sounds official doesn't it?

I am dangerously low on boxes to work with. I did my first 3-D piece without a box, as I couldn't find one the correct size. I also did my first box that was not black..."I want to be Malibu Barbie" is white/off white. I guess the good news is-I must be growing creatively or I think I would have been a stressed out puddle on the floor, due to lack of appropriate supplies. I just keep thinking; "use what you have"! Luckily there are several auctions this weekend and I think I am going to invite my husband on a treasure hunt. It will most likely be one of the last fabulous weekends before the real weather begins.

Thanks to Amy for the reminder yesterday-much appreciated!

Time To Be This Part Of Me

2008-10-02T13:42:00.000-07:00

Yes, her little head is indeed upside down-she is waiting for the glue to dry...this is a work in progress; "To Be". A friend of mine the other day said the most amazing thing to me; "Take the time to be that part of you". It is so true that the creative part of me I mostly, "have" to make time for. When you have to make time to do, what you love to do, it becomes one of the things on the "to do" list. A chore, just one more thing to check off before the end of the day. I am hoping that by working everyday no matter what, that making art will be like cooking dinner when I get home at night. Cooking dinner is just something you do, I want spending time in my studio to be just like that; something I do.

Posted myself on "Flickr" today. I am exhausted from all of the technical stuff that I am just clumsy and slow with. Too many late nights and early mornings this week. I am so happy tomorrow is Friday-Until then

Wonder Women

2008-10-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

What a fabulous group of women I am getting to know! I was thinking on the way home last night that it is so nice to be meeting like minded people. I think women in particular can be very nurturing for one another. I unfortunately, havent really made too much of an effort in the past to make those valuable connections. Well, that's all over now!!

The "Born Knowing" art piece pictured above is now at the J.E. Smith GALLERY. 56 Adams Avenue, Evansville, Indiana. You can call about the hours-812-455-8982. They have really beautiful things and some great events. I personally am looking forward to the "Clay and Cocktails" event.

I successfully emailed Glamour Girl photos with only three bouncing back, I was really careful about putting in the email addresses-apparently that paid off. I will get those three wayward photos to the owners in the next day or so.Thank you for all of the lovely return emails I have recieved -what a gift to me.

My rapid rust concoction didn't work our so well. I really didn't take off enough of the tin paint-so I have lovely rust spots, with a lot of perfect painted surfaces. I'm going to leave the tins in the solution for another 5 days or so, just to see what happens. OK, who am kidding, I am working on the ONB pieces.

The ATC girls that I met at Funk are to be given huge credit from me; they unknowingly helped me with my own ATC cards. Its funny when you just follow directions, how much is left out. All I had to do was pick up one of their lovely creations to know that mine were so wrong!
I have six cards that are going to be attached to the current piece I am working on; "To Be". They are almost finished and so much superior to the cards I have done in the past-Thanks Ladies!!

Hopefully, "To Be" will be finished up tonight. I am really excited about posting her.

Mana Moon Studios: Celebrating 100 Sales Giveaway

2008-09-30T10:31:00.000-07:00

Mana Moon Studios: Celebrating 100 Sales Giveaway

OK-How, did I forget to hit the POST button! You just have to go to her blog and sign yourself up to win one of her absolutely fabulous bracelets. Please, don't let me know if you are the lucky winner, I might have to have you over for dinner. You also might want to check yourself at the door to make sure you have everything you came in with:) Good Luck!!!

Just in case I didn't link it correctly...manamoon-studios.blogspot.com

Glamour Girls

2008-09-30T07:00:00.001-07:00

Spent the morning entering the names, emails and phone numbers of those brave enough to register to win the "Glamour Girls" Box. There were so many kids who registered that I sent this photo to all who entered. With my skill at typing I am looking forward to seeing how many bounce back...

My vinegar and bleach concoction has the most beautiful color you can imagine. I dint think i sanded enough of the paint off, hoping that isn't the case. However, it is fixable and and experiment-I guess I should give myself a little grace.

ONB exhibit goes up next week. Naturally I am still working on the pieces I want to be viewed. I am finally doing an homage to: Anne Lannert. Hers was the first piece of art work I ever acquired and has been just a huge inspiration for me. I invited her to lunch for my birthday last year, she politely declined. I am going to try again this year.

Tip of the Day-Hobby Lobby will wire your work for 1.00 per piece. Best game in town!!

Post NOW!!

2008-09-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

Good Grief-The things I forget to do, like hit the "post now" button. Took some photos of my "Kissing Frogs" piece this morning. I am posting it for sale on Etsy. I'm sure that is going to take most of my day. Everything from Funk with the exception of the furniture is out of the truck and put back in place. Whew! I had to take two naps yesterday, poor me, I was sore in places I had forgotten about and tired from having "artmares". I tried a new technique to make my atc's feel more like the girls I met at Funk. It worked-a so much better texture and a much better weight without much trouble. I used a print roller to squish out the excess medium, and flattened them with pieces of glass until they dried. I then took a nail file block and sanded both sides. I am going to attempt to poke hole in them for hanging before I apply anything else to them.

Etsy address is: scarletfields.etsy.com Come visit!

Early Morning Funk

2008-09-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

This is at 6AM Saturday morning...what a blessing to witness the gorgeous sunrise. I was so excited about participating that I naturally got to the event before anyone else. It was too dark to take any really good photos and then it was too light to take any really good photos, maybe next year.

My friend came along a few minutes after 6 to help me set up. Thank heavens, because I was more than a little loopy from lack of sleep. We were able to set up pretty quickly and were able to wander around and see everyone else setting up their booths. I am really glad we took the time to wander around before the event, once the event opened to the public, there wasn't much of a chance to wander. I made a interesting observation while participating in the event-artists are really funny. OK, stop laughing, I mean that artists can have funny attitudes-I found that artists were either really friendly or they were very much full of themselves and couldn't be bothered with another artist. I understand that it takes a lot of self confidence and a healthy portion of ego to put yourself out there for the public view, however nothing really can take the place of simply being approachable and polite. Note to self-Check the ego at the door-always.

I am so fortunate that I was able to speak with so many people about my art. I met two delightful women who had a booth of atc cards. When I stopped by their booth, not only were they friendly but more than willing to chat about the techniques they used for their art. I loved the hand of their cards, mine are not nearly as lovely and I intend to experiment in the next week or so to see if I can duplicate the lovely texture of their cards. I foolishly did not get their information and wish that I had. I hope they didn't lose my email address, I would really love to have a mixed media party.

A lovely group of young women came by my booth and one in particular was interested in interpreting "Great Expectations". I cant tell you how much fun that was!!! I loved that she was sure of what she had to say and that she was willing to share her thoughts. Thank you so much for that-the sharing was an absolute joy. If I can pass along one little thing...don't wait, contact someone about a small business loan, the world is waiting for your photography studio.

Thank you to my friends who stopped by my booth for love and support. You know who you are and I appreciate all you do for me, including the boxes of stuff and gorgeous bird nests that come my way via your thoughtfulness. To all of the people who registered to win "Glamour Girls", Mollie is the lucky winner and to the rest of you who left your email address, expect a photo in your email by the end of the week.
I can't wait to get ready for next year-Funk in The City 2009!!

I can't close without thanking the J.E. Smith Gallery for accepting 4 of my pieces, another reason to be excited!!!!

Funk in the City 2008

2008-09-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

Here is my Funk in the City booth with my friend and her grandson. I would not have had a clue or should I say the clue would have come late if she hadn't helped me so very much. She helped me find my spot, let me borrow the tent, folding chairs and even showed up at 6AM on opening day to help me set up. She passed out 400 postcard in regards to my next exhibit space and was instrumental in making sure I didn't charge 3.00 for 10 note cards and 4.00 for 1 note card (yes I almost did that).

THANKS KATE!!!!!!!!

My First Arts Festival

2008-09-26T06:40:00.000-07:00

Would you look at this gorgeous banner-purchased from manamoonstudio.etsy.com!! I have used it for my price tags for the Arts Festival this weekend. Spent this morning trimming photos and admiring how nice everything looks. Took a look yesterday to see where I will be sitting tomorrow-looks to be a much bigger show than last year. Very exciting to think about participating instead of just looking. My friend Kate has been helping me remember everything and Just Faux It is moving my furniture to the site. I will take a picture when I get there!

Bewitched

2008-09-25T04:20:00.001-07:00

I am having so much fun having too much "set up" of this and that on my plate. I think I should be Samantha from "Bewitched" for just a few hours. I could really use her skills right now!! I worked for hours on my Etsy store front last night just to inadvertently delete everything I had done-I forgot to hit the save button. Note to self-Save, Save and Save!!!!

The Evansville Art's Festival is this weekend downtown. I got into the game really late and then had surgery so I'm not really ready. I have two spaces and one tent. I don't have tables and not sure I want them. I don't have enough business cards. I most likely don't have enough work. Having said all that "I am soooo excited". I figure I will work it out!!!

I decided to do give away photographs of my artwork, I have put labels on the back with my Etsy store address and my blogspot address and my email address-they look good! I was able to get 500 photos in less than 24 hours so that suited my time frame really well.

I have been working on cutting photos for note cards-I can use all the practice that I can get. Started out using my fine point exacto knife-big mistake. My husband suggested my rotary cutter-smart thinker that man!

Attaching a photo-a close up of "Mrs. Lackey". She won third place in the Women's Show last year at the Women's Hospital here in Evansville. She is for sale this weekend-I hope she finds the perfect home.

Left Brain Right Brain

2008-09-17T11:09:00.000-07:00

You can tell I am new to the blogging. I will have to work on the picture taking as well as the picture attaching. First photo is my hoosier art cabinet, overflowing with goodies. the second picture is a close up of me trying to organize my pens, so I will stop using the wrong one for the wrong thing-yes I know the odds are not good for that to work out....

The picture below is my messy worktable. My husband installed it for me, I just wish I would keep it cleaner. This is also an in process of
pretending to get as organized as possible. My

lighting right now leaves a lot to be desired-any
suggestions and I am all ears!

I have christened my brain with a name-Cybil. My brain was jumping around like a ping pong ball last night while I lay in bed not sleeping. My work days are filled as a Mortgage Loan Originator. I have my own business. In the present climate the stress in unbelievable! So, I was making boxes in my head one minute, cleaning my studio, making up titles and then the next minute I am worring about interest rates and loan closings. I decided last night that I am a very artistic; type "A" personality. There is so much wrong with that picture!

Still pretending that my studio is ever going to get clean. I am proud to say there are some clean spots. As you can see, I am in the middle, where everything is at its most messy. I love the little clear statues, they were some time of advertising product for an oil company-they are going to make the coolest box once I have found all of the other parts. I almost want to make them ballet dancers, that would be really funny in the right background. We will see.

It has been so long since I have written that I had forgotten my password. My Etsy store is open with nothing in it. I have a new Blackberry that I can't get to work properly-not fault of the Blackberrry, I just dont seem to be setting it up correctly. After many useless hours of trying I remember why I paid someone the last time I had to set my Blackberry up. What was I thinking!!!

Baby Smiles

2008-09-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

This is my second full week back at the office, it was a late night for me. I did get to end the day at a friend's house who has the most fabulous little boy. I was lucky enough to get to play catcher for flying Lego's. The energy of a baby can sure put the day into a different perspective. He is simply a happy, charming little boy; obviously taking after his parents. Lego's, his toothbrush, a vanilla wafer or two and attention were all he needed. I was significantly more relaxed as I made my way home and wondered as I often do-why do we make things so much more complicated then they have to be. I am very thankful for little CJ's smiles and I think I could learn a lesson about letting a vanilla wafer make my day.

Health Hiatus

2008-09-09T09:39:00.000-07:00

Thankfully back in the saddle if not moving at full throttle. Its amazing how slow time passes when you can't really do anything. Bed rest has never been my strong suite. I did however manage to put my time in and am enjoying a complete recovery! I have never felt better!! My studio is a mess. The kind where everything needs to be put back where it belongs so you can work with any speed of thought process. I watched entirely too much HGTV and discovered the DIY network. My favorite new program is DIY's "Cool Tools". I could very easily want one of each tool on the show-I don't have any idea what I would do with them, but they do look like a ton of fun.

I successfully separated all of my buttons; a job that took many hours. I divided old from new; plastic from metal and wood; rhinestone from clear. I also divided 2 hole buttons from 4 hole buttons and then of course separated by size and color. A perfect occupation for "bed rest". I spent a lot of time reading and tearing out pages in magazines. A friend gave me several magazines (none of which I subscribe to) that helped pass a good amount of time. I plowed through several beading books, no I don't bead, but beading does seem to be a bit of a rage and I do have some great jewelry findings that I would love to use. Love stories have never been high on my list of reading materials; but another friend donated a bag of romance novels to the "bed rest" cause. I read all of them and was very happy to have them; I will be passing them on.

Started working on my little 4 X 4 paintings which prompted the realization that my little studio had become a mess. I would blame it on Gizmo and Molly, but they are both too short. I started cleaning it up and putting all of my little goodies back in their proper spots. For such a small space the mess should be in a much larger room. I still have some more too go; but at least there are some clean flat surfaces, which is a big improvement. I have been playing with paint pens, which I have not done before. A bit smelly, but the lines are great and much faster and cleaner than a brush.

I will try and post after an after photo this weekend!

Parts in Progress

2008-06-18T11:30:00.000-07:00

Here is the wedding couple in process, too fun! The dress was a little plain so I glued individual vintage aurora borealis sequins all over the lace. After I did that; the base looked too plain so I added pearl rope and individual pearls to highlight the diamond shapes. Lends a more cake like feel to the topper. The second photo is the top half of the box where the topper is going to rest on the domino dance floor. I like the repetition of the polka dots. I use mirror frequently, in this case the mirror was really needed as the box is deeper than boxes I normally use and it was much to dark in the back of the box. The mirror works to expand the space and also bounces light around the box. The bottom interior of the box is now covered in white feathers; I glued them down with craft glue (what was I thinking?). Feather usage 101: never cut a feather and then try and glue it down-it falls apart. Every time I cut a feather and try and glue it down, I remember that I shouldn't cut the feather before I glue. A little late in the process to be sure; but some days are brand spanking new.

I have been noodling on the Mary Jane's. I am leaning toward a gold leaf background with velvet shoe inserts. It would be fun to have a Faberge looking box for my little shoes, just to marke certain that everyone would know that they were irreplaceable treasures. I thought instead of using glitter for "bling" I could use seed beads in a pattern on the outside of the box. I think that idea is worth a trip to the library to check out some fab egg designs.

The other box that I have been thinking of, is from a game piece that was given to me about six or seven years ago. The game was "Pin the Leaf on David". Big Mike's David of course. I have gathered up plenty of goodies to go in the box, it just hasn't seemed quite enough of the right things. I decided this morning it was because I was morphing my bible stories. Adam and David really didn't have the same performance in the Bible and I guess I made up my own little story to fit my box parts. Now I think the box will be called " I wish I were Adam". I will think on that for a day or two and see if it holds up with the box parts.

Chances for today. Starting a blog post. Closing the office early ( for the weekend). Taking photos of other people's landscaping without their permission.

Trains of Thought

2008-06-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wonder at my thought process and how a wedding cake topper can turn into the search for things that relate to games and gambling. My thoughts sometimes do a slow meander and it takes weeks for me to reach a moment in my thoughts where I know just exactly what to do next. Other times my thoughts are like a rock skipping across the water and the jump from one thought to the next doesn't seem to connect, but then a thought or two later I have somehow found the perfect solution. This is a photo of some of the objects for the box I am working on right now. Mardi Gras babies; a friend gave me. The babies are supposed to go in a Mardi Gras cake, however, they are a little larger than the standard Mardi Gras cake babies. I knew when I saw them that they were indeed a treasure to be saved for a future project. Old game dice, old domino's, glitter and wish bones complete my initial trip of hunting and gathering. While I was rummaging around in my art finds this morning I noticed my first Mary Jane shoes on a shelf. A box that is much overdue in the making. I can't seem to find the perfect size box and I can't make up my mind about the background. The little shoes are all polished up and ready, the rest of the box is still somehow not quite right in my head. I have made several sketches, but somehow nothing is just right. I am sure the Mary Jane's were the beginning of my love affair with shoes, which could potentially be a series in and of itself. I don't know any girl who doesn't secretly love a good pair of fabulously frivolous shoes. I have a friend who has the most magnificent pair of emerald green silk pumps. I think that was the first pair of shoes I ever saw and knew immediately that they were indeed a very special treasure. I think she would be pleased to know that I am wearing my red, high heeled sandals with the roses across the toes-now there is a chance!

Back To Work Monday

2008-06-16T04:22:00.000-07:00

My weekend was really productive! This photo is from my scientific method of object placement. Box needs a shelf so this is how I determined where the shelf should go. I used balsa wood for the trim and the shelf, I only needed something lightweight so the balsa wood was a great fit. I added a base to help balance the weight of the eight ball. I used square cubes for the legs and wooden beads for embellishments. I painted the whole thing flat black. It took several coats of paint, the wood was really quite dry. While waiting for the paint to dry I went through or at least made a valiant attempt to go through; all of my buttons. I have collected buttons with no real reason with the exception that I just really like them. I have horded buttons for years. I made a significant dent, I separated the shank buttons from the flat buttons and the metal buttons from the plastic, wood and rhinestone buttons. Now that I am separating the buttons, I am going to have to find a way to keep them separated. There are some really cool buttons that will just have to be applied to a box, it would be great if I could just put my hands on them, without having to hunt them down. Right now the buttons are in little piles on a large plastic lid, one bump and they are back to a messy pile. The paint is still not dry, the air is much to humid. The base of the wedding couple needs a bit of a lift and a much more decorative base. I used a child's alphabet block to give the couple a bit more height. The alphabet block is something I have been saving the alphabet blocks for the letters, but this block had a nasty hole right thru the letter so I felt ok about using the block where it wouldnt be seen. I rummaged through my art papers and found plenty of black and white papers to work with, enough that the papers should have their own compartment (another thing for the "to do" list". I think the best choice for the papers are graphic designs adding to the whimsy of the piece; I am going to go with diamonds and polka dots. I am going to use the graphic paper on the top half and white feathers for the background on the bottom half. I am sure that in a perfect world a "magic" eight ball would have wings. To add to my list of things we take chances on: driving through the construction zones, petting a strange cat, having fabric cut without knowing the price and walking out the door everyday.

Attic Shopping

2008-06-15T04:17:00.000-07:00

I recently moved all of my potential empty art boxes up into the attic. Now that I have the two major pieces for my current art box-it was just a quick hike up to the attic to do a little box shopping. I am sure I purchased this box at a yard sale and I am also sure that I found the exterior verbiage amusing. More Air, Less Labor, Constant Satisfaction-what do you think? Here is a start to my list of what we take chances on. Getting married, rescuing a puppy, starting a business, being a friend, trying a new recipe on guests, starting a plant from seed.......

The Magic Eight Ball

2008-06-14T03:20:00.000-07:00

This was a favorite childhood toy of mine. I rediscovered this Eight Ball in an old box of "stuff" when I was cleaning/organizing the attic. I was amazed that there was still liquid inside; not as much, just enough to ask a question and get an answer. It is an excellent addition to my bride and groom. In a perfect world we would all have a magic ball that we could ask our most serious questions and get back the exact answer that we need. This piece is starting to lean toward a black and white theme. I have never done a piece with a color theme, so this will be an excellent adventure. The weekend is finally here and I have very high hopes of getting much accomplished.

The Wedding Couple

2008-06-13T06:27:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love this cake topper. From the groom's stylish haircut; I think that the topper might be from the 1970's. I found them in a box of auction items. This charming couple begged to have a art box built around them. It occurred to me that when we marry we are taking a chance. We take many chances in life, getting married being one of many. This line off thought has inspired me to pursue a "Chance" series of art boxes. So; I am starting a list of personal chances we take in life. We will see where that takes me.

How It Begins

2008-06-12T12:29:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite places to find objects for my artwork. This is Wilson's Auction Center in Historic New Harmony, Indiana. Boxes and boxes of treasures laid out on flat bed trailers. There are usually ten or more trailers full of boxes of all kinds of stuff! I don't know which part of the experience I like best-looking thru the boxes prior to the auction starting or actually getting the final bid on a box of goodies. This is where I bought a box of old wedding items. There was a cake top, a wedding invitation, the announcement from the local paper and a garter still in the box, along with souvenir items from vacations past. When you attend auctions of any kind I think it gets you wondering about the people who owned the items. What happened to them? I have also become a little better at editing my own belongings-Sorta!