RAEvN's Nest

Silver Carnival Horse Necklace

2012-01-21T14:20:00.018-06:00

Today I finished this necklace. The actual construction didn't take long once I decided on the design. What took me a lot of time was going through my stash looking for inspiration.

The vintage silver horse is the starting inspiration for this necklace. I made this piece of jewelry, filled with loving memories. I also made it with the intention of listing it on Etsy. It is not always easy to for me to let go of my art.

The above picture is of my Great Aunt Lena. She never married nor had children. I am the keeper of her pictures, some belongings and memories. Lena is at the carnival with her boyfriend. This picture along with the horse gave me the idea to pursue a vintage carnival inspired theme. The pearl rosary style chain is from Lena's jewelry box. I love the combination of beads in white, silver, plum, steel and a bit of pink for a feminine touch. The asymmetrical design gives added interest to the composition of this necklace. The 5 small silver beads are from my Aunt Carol and Uncle Al. At one time they sold jewelry findings at flea markets.

The necklace measures 24" with the horse and poles hanging an additional 4" below.

Close-up detail.

Another photo styling idea.

To complete the necklace I added a vintage silver barrel clasp. The crescent shaped beads are silver plated brass. I am not sure of the metal content of the rest of the necklace.

Time to share my memories and list this necklace on Etsy. You can find the necklace listed here:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/91119780/vintage-silver-carnival-horse-necklace
SOLD 1/21/12

Next I need to put away the creative mess...

Guest Blogger on PERSONAL GEOGRAPHIES

2012-01-18T21:12:00.004-06:00

I am thrilled to be the guest blogger today on Jill K. Berry's Blog - Personal Geographies.

Jill has many fabulous pieces of art in my book Interactive Art Journal and I am a contributing artist to her book.
You can buy an autographed copy of Jill's book from her blog or it is available from Amazon here.

Check this out!

FREE Webinar: My Journey with Maps Hosted by Jill K. Berry

On Thursday, January 19th, 2012. Hurry and register...

http://www.createmixedmedia.com/uncategorized/free-webinar-my-journey-with-maps-hosted-by-jill-berry

Sketchbook Challenge - Prize Winner

2012-01-06T17:36:00.005-06:00

I am fortunate to be a prize winner for the December Sketchbook Challenge. All you need to do is follow the Sketchbook Challenge Blog and post 1 photo of sketchbook art on their Flickr site for a chance to win. Prizewinners are picked randomly. They host a different challenge each month. Included in my prize packet from Luminarte is a set of twinkling H2O's in Pearlesque colors and a set of 4 Radiant Rain Color Concentrate. Plus a sample pack of ready cut Watercolor paper by Strathmore. Thank you Sketchbook Challenge! I am looking forward to trying out these new products in my journal. Click on the badge above for a link to the Sketchbook Challenge Blog.

Art Journal Page

2011-12-29T08:24:00.003-06:00

The quote inspired the drawing of the man. Colored pencil over an acrylic wash. I liked the design of the postage stamp and thought it's color and pattern complimented my layout.

"And in that line was a whiskered old man, with a linen cap and a crooked nose, who waited...to share his part in the secret of Heaven; that each affects the other and the other affects the next, and the world is full of stories, but the stories are all one." Mitch Albom
The Five People You Meet in Heaven

December Sketchbook Challenge

2011-12-28T21:45:00.003-06:00

The theme for the December Sketchbook Challenge is "Trashed, ruined and decay". Not a real strong tie to the theme for me other than the stamps I saved from being trashed.

Keep Your Eye on the Prize is my title for this art journal page. I worked the design by drawing the image of a trophy over the face of my daughter Brook. I painted around the trophy with gesso trying to maintain a balance between the trophy standing out without covering the image of my daughter entirely. To further support the theme, I inserted a blue ribbon into a slit that I cut in the page. The writing chronicles some of the recent wins showing dogs that my daughter has accomplished.

A Boston Terrier plus 1 Bulldog - Merry Christmas!

2011-12-27T19:45:00.002-06:00

Christmas this year was “Dog Christmas” which Mark & I celebrated at Mom’s house. Pictured are our 4 boston terriers plus all of the granddogs. Ruby & Simon, my Mom’s dogs, aren’t included in the picture (we had overstayed our welcome with them).

Waiting to open Christmas Presents…

…is it time yet?

Crow Picture & Quote

2011-12-26T17:10:00.003-06:00

"The way a crow shook down on me, the dust of snow from a hemlock tree. Has given my heart a change of mood and saved some part of a day I had rued." Robert Frost
A picture that I took of a crow a couple of years ago.

Merry Christmas – A Gift for You

2011-12-21T18:19:00.008-06:00

I designed this cardboard church along with others for the 2006 Holiday issue of Stampington Inspirations. As a little Christmas gift I am including the pattern below (This was not included in the magazine).

Above are the patterns for the cardboard Church. You are welcome to copy and print them. They should be printed full size on 8 1/2" x 11" paper. If this doesn't work for you just send me a message and I will be happy to email you this pattern in PDF format. The circular hole on the back side is for a light to fit through if you wish.

To see my three page article, the 2006 holiday issue of Stampington Inspirations is available here.

I hope that you have a joyous holiday season!

Gourdon the Gourd Doll

2011-12-20T10:54:00.004-06:00

This is the gourd doll that I made for Art Doll Quarterly's Call for Creativity. Gordon even landed himself a full page photo stylist spread in the magazine! I always like to try challenges that help to get me out of my box. I don't understand why artists would want to limit themselves to a specific medium. I am routinely told "Oh, I couldn't make that, I am a ______ artist". I have found that techniques or compositions that are learned in other mediums often lead to new ideas in your primary medium. Not that I think everyone should try making a gourd doll, but I encourage you, when the opportunity arises to try a medium that takes you out of your comfort zone.

Doesn't Gourdon look happy? I shaped his teeth with a dremel (kind of felt like a dentist).

To see my gourd doll and read the article you can find Art Doll Quarterly, Autumn 2007 here.

More Maps of Possibilities - Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking

2011-12-18T19:17:00.004-06:00

Behind the pages look -
This is the bottom view of the Map of Self Discovery, a map that is included in Jill K. Berry's book Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking. I thought you might like to see this view of the nesting cone maps, as they were not included. They are compass roses etched in three different medals.

I often do a lot of research to develop my ideas for a piece of art. I like to record this process in my art journal. Click on pictures for larger view.

All of the writing on the left side of the page and above the transparency on the right side are taken from various web sites on the internet. From the transparency on down I am starting to develop my own ideas. The transparency is the actual pattern that I created for the etched brass cartouche of the map.

Further working out my idea for the symbolism that this map incorporates.

Sometime in the future I will feature this map on this blog as I think it is one of the most symbolic and important pieces of art that I have created so far.

For now it is available to see in Jill's book Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking along with my condensed thought out explanation of the map.

Assemblage - Gift That Comes With Strings Attached.

2011-12-15T22:46:00.004-06:00

Since it is the holiday season I thought it would be a good time to present this assemblage to give warning "Be careful of accepting gifts with strings attached". I'm really not that cynical but I do have quite the wandering imagination of "what ifs".

The most challenging part of creating this assemblage was attaching the strings to the hands as it was glued shut from the backside. I was able to salvage the porcelain hands from a broken figurine.

Fritz is Wondering “Where are all of the Christmas Presents?

2011-12-15T17:08:00.001-06:00

This is going to be Fritz’s first Christmas. I think that this is the smallest Charlie Brown tree we have had yet. It has been put up on the table to prevent ornament theft by the bostons. Fritz weighs under 8 lbs to give to an idea of the scale. I hope you are enjoying your holiday preparations.

Boston Terrier Countdown to Christmas

2011-12-08T11:40:00.002-06:00

Christmas music is playing and we are busy getting ready for Christmas here. Edna is off traveling around the show circuit with her sisters. Frankie, Fritz and Gertie are spending some time at Grandma & Grandpa's house. Pictured: Rufus, Frankie, Fritz, Spanky, Gertie and Ziggy. Hopefully we will be able to get a picture of the whole gang for Christmas. We hope that you are enjoying your day!

Good dogs...here's your cookies!

Golden Eagle Silhouette

2011-12-01T22:02:00.005-06:00

“The day is done, and the darkness, Falls from the wings of Night, As a feather is wafted downward, From an eagle in his flight” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

A picture of a Golden Eagle taken by my husband Mark this Fall.

The Mime - When Fantasy Becomes Reality

2011-11-29T12:40:00.012-06:00

THE MIME
When Fantasy Becomes Reality

Claude spent most of his time living in a world of fantasy.

One day his fantasy became reality.

If only Claude could call out for help.

His frantic gestures led only to further amuse his viewers.

First act or grand finale?

The idea of a mime being trapped in a jar came from the classic "Mime trapped in a glass box" performances. When "fantasy becomes reality" is the theme of this piece. What if a mime was trapped in a jar and couldn't ask for help because he was a mime? What if the more frantic he became only led to further amusing his audience? Somerset Studio magazine had a "Call for entries - enchanting jar scenes". This is the concept that I came up with, perhaps a bit more odd than enchanting!

To see this jar and other jars view the March/April 2007 issue of Somerset Studio available here.

Thank you to my son-in-law Joel! You did an excellent job of modeling and acting out the mime role!

Project 4 - Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking

2011-11-28T13:49:00.007-06:00

Another project that I have done from Jill K. Berry's book - Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking. The project from her book that I was inspired by is called Hand Map.

Welcome to RAEvN Land! Home to special places in my life and a lot of puns! Towns are named after places where family, friends and I have lived. Come sailing with me on Artistic Ocean, Analytical Ocean or Productive Ocean. Although a boat ride in the Gulf of Passion is saved exclusively for my husband Mark. For you land lubbers there are Mountains of Information, Idea Desert or Painters Peak. Beware, keep away from Carpel Tunnel. I hope you have a creative journey!

I am fortunate to also be a contributing artist for Jill's book. (I won't be posting my art that is included in her book on my blog).

Project 9 for - Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking

2011-11-28T08:56:00.010-06:00

This is one of the projects that I have done from Jill K. Berry's book - Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking. I am fortunate to also be a contributing artist for Jill's book. (I won't be posting my art that is included in her book on my blog). The project from her book is called Pop-up Memory Map.

I am interested in totem animals. On May 20 on our way home from the cabin Mark and I seen these animals cross the road in front of us in the order indicated on the map. I looked up the meaning on the internet for each of these animals and included that on my map.

After some time away from the map and looking at it with fresh eyes I realize that these animals represent the stages in my married life:
Rabbit - Ability to procreate, fleetness and movement by leaps. This certainly describes the first years of my marriage. I had three children within four years of my marriage. We went from renting an old farmhouse to an apartment to our starter home ...
Deer - a new innocence and freshness is about to be awakened - Getting to know my husband and children and what I am capable of doing.
Squirrel - Balance within the circle of gathering and giving out - This certainly describes what being mother and raising her children is all about.
Snapping Turtle - Honor the creative source within, longevity, ability to grasp opportunities. Now that my children are all grown up and out of the house this is what I need to work on. And Mark, sorry for snapping! (It's just a phase I'm going through).

What if I had seen the snapping turtle first in my married life?

The process of creating art is like that for me, it heightens my personal awareness. Jill's book is a wonderful way to jump start your creative journey!

Project 11 for - Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking

2011-11-27T19:25:00.005-06:00

This is one of the projects that I have done from Jill K. Berry's book - Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking. I am fortunate to also be a contributing artist for Jill's book. (I won't be posting my art that is included in her book on my blog). The project from her book is called The Right Place at the Right Time. While mapping out our pets, my family and I enjoyed reminiscing about all of the animals that have lived at our place. Creating this map provided a nice trip down memory lane!

I decided to map out the pets that we have had since living in our present house. It was always a dream of mine to live on a hobby farm. The gold colored shed is the first shed that we had. We actually moved it from our previous house which is less than 1 mile away. This shed housed 1 chicken, 2 cats and six goats. With our expanding herd of goats we built the gray pole shed. The increase in shed size led to an even greater increase in goat herd size! The most pets we have had at one time including house pets was 25. This was when my kids were younger and lived at home so was the "right time" to have many pets. Three of the goats were rehomed but I found that I didn't have the heart to break up anymore goat families after that. All of the rest of the pets have lived out their lives here. I think that it is important that if you buy a pet or are responsible for bringing them into the world that you should look out for their welfare until they pass on. This month our last goat passed on. I am sad!

My hobby farm is currently composed of one of the original cats and the original chicken. They are both 16 years old. I'm not sure what my dream is now! The current plan is we are done with outside animals for now. We also have 4 boston terriers who are house dogs. They don't even like to venture outside in the Winter!

Next I want to map the pets I had as a child and the houses we lived in prior to this one.

Thanksgiving Art Journal Entry

2011-11-25T14:41:00.002-06:00

My journal entry after getting together with family for Thanksgiving. I drew a robin rather than a turkey. I must be thinking about Spring...

Art Journal Page - Andy Warhol Quote

2011-11-21T09:04:00.006-06:00

I found this Andy Warhol Quote:

Don’t think about making art…just get it done…let everybody else say whether its good or not…and while they’re deciding…keep making more art.

I found this quote to be so relevant to my creative journey that I have placed it at the top of my side bar.

My first idea was to find a picture from the Shaker book that I have, illustrating someone making art. These two ladies fit the bill. In serendipitous journaling behavior I found Andy Warhol’s famous Campbell Soup Can art in the American Craft magazine that I have been collaging from. This art was the inspiration for my tomato red color. I don’t use the color red very often so this was leading me out of my comfort zone. I like the combination of red coral and turquois in jewelry and decided to play with these colors together on my journal page. While flipping through the magazine later, looking for more inspiration, I found the tiny Campbell Soup Can image. An "M" with a brush caught my eye because of the color. After tearing the "M" out of the magazine I found it upside down on my table and seen a “W”, for Warhol. I admire the craftmanship of the Shakers but decided to “shake” things up a bit and add some bright colors and quirky designs to their clothes and décor.

November Sketchbook Challenge – Imaginary Animals

2011-11-11T12:04:00.001-06:00

I combined this month’s theme “Imaginary Animals” with an entry into my FRagMENteD Journal. This painting was inspired by Lynn Whipple’s Ninnies. She takes vintage cabinet photos and paints imaginary creatures over them. You can see her work HERE.

I am as a boston terrier. Look at my square face and jowls! They say owners resemble their pets, no wonder I like boston terriers! I tried to take a picture of myself to mimic the serious poses on vintage cabinet photos. Upon reflecting here: I look like I am waiting for something to eat; Someone to feed me; Perhaps my master to come home. Funny, not my intention. I had to include one of my RAEvNs. While we don’t have any ravens where I live, seeing crows gets the dogs quite excited.

Boston terriers have been bred to not have long tails, I guess I needed one to feel balanced!

IT’S HERE! Personal Geographies: Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking

2011-11-10T14:45:00.001-06:00

I couldn’t wait, so I ordered a copy of Personal Geographies – Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking by Jill K. Berry from Amazon. I was priviledged to be invited as a contributing artist. Upon seeing the book I can say that I am honored to be included among such a diverse and talented group of artists whose work appears in the book. I truly enjoyed making the projects included in the book, in fact I made most of them. Jill did a fabulous job of putting together this inspirational book. I am still processing all of the wonders of this book and will be posting more comments about it and projects from it in the future.

Here is a link to Jill’s blog and a her book blog Personal Geographies.

You can order your own copy of Personal Geographies – Explorations in Mixed Media Mapmaking HERE!

Pictured above is part of my promotional team, Ziggy and Spanky.

Sketchbook Challenge

2011-11-09T09:36:00.002-06:00

I am happy to announce that I have a "special guest profile" featured on the Sketchbook Challenge Blog today. You can find the article HERE!

Art Journals

2011-11-08T07:23:00.001-06:00

My art journals that I have gathered together so far. Why am I compelled to record my thoughts, ideas and artistic journey?

FRagMENteD Journal page

2011-11-07T08:07:00.001-06:00

A continuation of artistic exploration and discovery.

FRagMENteD Journal Entry

2011-11-04T17:58:00.002-05:00

Another entry to my FRagMENteD Journal. It is hard for me to believe that this painting started with a photocopy of myself. My intent was to paint loosely, with simple designs and bright colors. I gave myself permission to not maintain an exact likeness of myself. This was quite freeing.

It did not turn out like the artists’ whose work I admire. It still looks like my art. My art holds no mystery to me. Time away from the piece does help - to look at it with fresh eyes. Can you see me underneath all of the paint?

Assemblage Art Journals in my Etsy Shop!

2011-11-02T14:15:00.001-05:00

ALBERT EINSTEIN

This one of a kind assemblage journal has been made with oak veneer plywood book boards. To the book boards is bolted a brass plate that a life size portrait of Albert Einstein has been hand-drawn and then etched upon. A photograph of Albert Einstein's actual eyes has been place under a vintage pair of glasses similar to the ones Einstein would have worn. In the cutout is featured Einstein's quote
"Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere". Albert Einstein 1879 - 1955.
The 8" x 10" book is bound with waxed linen thread in the coptic style enabling the book to lie open flat when in use. Six signatures of 140lb watercolor paper with a total of 72 pages enables you to use most wet or dry mediums.

For Sale in my Etsy shop.

TUNING INTO CREATIVITY

This one of a kind assemblage journal has been made with oak veneer plywood book boards. To the book boards is bolted a brass plate that has been hand-drawn and then etched upon. Bolted on to the cover is a vintage radio dial that actually turns, so you can "Tune into Creativity"!
Enclosed is a side view of the book to illustrate how much the handle projects from the surface.
disclaimer: I personally find the inspiration of this journal to more than compensate any hindrance the knob causes. There is a hairline crack to the right side of the logo on top of the dial which isn't noticeable unless you are looking for it.
The 6 1/4" x 8 1/4" book is bound with waxed linen thread in the coptic style enabling the book to lie open flat when in use. Six signatures of 140lb watercolor paper with a total of 96 pages enables you to use most wet or dry mediums. Pages vary in width, some are 6" wide and some are 4" wide.
Use as a journal, sketchbook, or guest book. Display on your coffee table for guests to doodle or write in. Would make an exceptional gift for yourself or someone special.

For sale in my Etsy shop.

DISCOVERING CREATIVITY

This original art assemblage journal has been made with oak veneer plywood book boards. To the book boards is bolted brass and copper plates that has been hand-drawn, stamped and then etched upon. Bolted onto the brass plate is a vintage door escutcheon plate with a vintage engraving of an eye encased in resin.
The 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" book is bound with waxed linen thread in the coptic style enabling the book to lie open flat when in use. Ten signatures of 140lb watercolor paper with a total of 120 pages enables you to use a variety of wet or dry mediums.
Use as a journal, sketchbook, or guest book. Display on your coffee table for guests to doodle or write in. Would make an exceptional gift for yourself or someone special.

For sale in my Etsy Shop.

THE STANDARD

This one of a kind assemblage journal has been made with oak veneer plywood book boards. To the book boards is bolted a vintage brass plate. "The STANDARD Not genuine without this signature Nathanial Baldwin Salt Lake City, Utah".
The 5 1/2" x 5" book is bound with waxed linen thread in the coptic style enabling the book to lie open flat when in use. Four signatures of 140lb watercolor paper with a total of 64 pages enables you to use most wet or dry mediums. Pages vary in width, some are 6" wide and some are 4" wide.
Use as a journal, sketchbook, or guest book. Display on your coffee table for guests to doodle or write in. Would make an exceptional gift for yourself or someone special.

For sale in my Etsy shop.

Girl and Owl

2011-11-01T21:36:00.001-05:00

Girl and Owl painting shown hanging above my desk. Painting available for sale in my Etsy shop.

New Paintings

2011-10-29T15:10:00.002-05:00

In between journaling this past week I have been painting again. I can't begin to tell you how good it feels to be productive again. These are original paintings on a vintage wood patterns by the Gilson Bros. Factory in Fredonia, Wisconsin. The original tin pressed number from each pattern is also included. Click on each picture to see a close-up. The wood has a nice worn patina and adds to the vintage industrial feel to these art pieces. Visit my etsy shop to see these paintings and more.

GIRL AND OWL

15” X 27”

BARN OWL

20” X 24”

FrAgMENteD Journal Continued…

2011-10-27T17:41:00.001-05:00

I had the idea of weaving together 3 year old Kim and OLDer Kim. I made the OLDer Kim into horizontal strips and the 3 year old Kim into vertical strips. First I wove them over and under one way, the design was ok but I decided to weave them the opposite way to see if it looked better. It looked worse. Then I had the idea of a basket weave, which turned out to be the right mix.

This is the opposite page with more weaving. I cut strips from the American Craft magazine that caught my eye. “Strike a Balance” resonates within me.

FrAgMENteD Journal Pages

2011-10-26T17:56:00.010-05:00

Additional pages from my FragMENteD Journal.

Do you ever wish that you could create art like someone else? My FrAgMENteD self often sees other peoples art and wish that I could create like them. In reality I want my art to reflect who I am. Teesha Moore is the inspiration for this journal spread. I had something very specific in my mind when I think of Teesha's pages but when I looked at her journal page site I was reminded of the variety of art that she creates. Teesha's style has been copied many times before but I can always tell that it isn't actually her art. She often uses vibrant colors and doodles over the top of her collage and her figures are often composites.

I used my face as a starting point, after all this journal is about me. I added big lashes and rosebud lipstick. How do you think I look? I never wear mascara as I tend to rub my eyes a lot. I found these cute little tights with herringbone socks. I would wear this outfit (ok, maybe just for halloween) if I ever attained my ideal weight. Circular shapes in the American Craft Magazine caught my eye. A theme was developing without even thinking about it, which is the wonderful magic of working with collage. Call for entries describes all of the shows and magazines that I have submitted to. Yes I have been making art for years. This was fun! Now what style should I experiment with?

How many ways can I illustrate FrAgMENtaTioN using the same old face? The grid of squares represents order and precision to me. This only lasts so long and then life starts to fall apart. Ideas break away and are lost. It is hard to think. There is no organization. The world is gray. On the outside I may show a smile, while inside I am fragmented. Don't feel too sorry for me. I have a wonderful life, migraines are my challenge!

After seeing the above page my sister suggested I explore this idea using circles. The round shape reminded me of a warm, sunny and bubbly atmosphere. I suppose a person can be both FrAgMENteD and happy.

Sometimes a person shouldn't say everything that they are thinking.

Evidence of a checkered past with some flourishes, wink. This page isn't completed yet.

October Sketchbook Challenge - View

2011-10-26T09:00:00.002-05:00

The October Sketchbook Challenge is “View”. While sitting at the studio in Cedarburg for Arts Weekend I decided to journal. This is the “view” looking outside the window from the 3rd floor. A view of the rooftop of the stone building across the road. The heavy dark line in the middle of the page is from the wash of Golden acrylics that I applied before drawing in colored pencil and was too shiny for the pencil to adhere.

Assemblage Art Journals

2011-10-18T21:53:00.002-05:00

#1 TUNING INTO CREATIVITY

A couple of years ago I started making these art journals for myself. I wanted to incorporate some of the jewelry making techniques I have been using to create a one of a kind journals. Although I have made myself other journals, this is my first one of this type. The cover started with the top and base from a wooden cigar box. The radio dial was the inspiration for the theme and style of the cutout brass plate. These are my everyday journals. I continually struggle with the desire to use a different journal for a different style of art or purpose. I have found that I usually didn’t have the right journal convenient when I needed it. This is the first journal that I have fully completed, other than a specific event journal that covered one topic such as an art retreat or vacation. I find the 6” x 8” journal a very comfortable size for me to use. The book is filled with 140# cold press watercolor paper that has been torn down from larger sheets and held together with coptic stitch binding. COMPLETED

#2 TUNING INTO CREATIVITY

A larger size cigar box dictated the 8” x 10” size for this journal. I continued the “Tuning into Creativity” theme but also included my name and the year into the etched brass. I made this journal shortly after creating the first one. Unfortunately I estimated my start time incorrectly and instead of 2009 didn’t begin working in the Journal until February 2010. COMPLETED

#3 FOCUS ON CREATIVITY

A shutter from a vintage Kodak camera was the inspiration for this journal. Focusing on creativity is definitely something that I am trying to accomplish. Incorporating my name and the date permanently on the cover adds and extra quality of personalization. I also added a piece of leather from a vintage suitcase that was beyond repair. Size 6” x 8”. COMPLETED

Close-up showing face from an antique engraving covered with a sheet of mica.

#4 JOURNAL

This is the journal that I am currently working in. I used a door escutcheon with an antique engraving of an eye in the bezel filled with resin. Beneath the escutcheon I placed some handmade paper and a vintage ticket for added texture and interest. Size 6” x 8”.

#5 CONFESSIONS OF A SINNER JOURNAL

As mentioned earlier in this entry it is challenging for me to work in one journal at a time. For the most part I want to be able to share my journals. I try not to write anything in them that I wouldn’t want anyone to read. This journal is an exception. I wanted a place to record my feelings about spirituality and organized religions. I replaced the Virgin Mary with my face in a brass icon, not because I think that I am Virgin Mary or even like the Virgin Mary but because I am “trying to understand”. The title “Confessions of a Sinner” was inspired by my experiences in parochial school and church. Size 6” x 8'”

#6 FRagMENted JOURNAL

Journal #4 wasn’t done yet but I had an idea for this journal and the pages inside of it. Yes, I am FRagMENted! For more information on this journal see this post.

New Profile Picture

2011-10-16T17:06:00.001-05:00

I have had the same profile picture since the start of this blog in 2006. I am compelled to make a change. To flip up the blinders and look in different directions. This is my masked character RAEvN. Some characters with dual identities and anonymity choose to duck in and out of their invincible roles. “The disguise has therefore become a mythical element. ... The character divides himself into two component parts, each part playing its role: the alter ego and the secret identity. The dream half (alter ego) expresses all that the author or designer — and with him the reader — would like to be; the other half, rooted in reality, is a symbol of the ordinary everyday man following the behaviour pattern ordained by society. It is a division of life into dream and reality ... and serves to strengthen the individual's self-confidence and to justify his personal way of thinking.” ^[4]

To join me in my creative journey are my faithful companions… because who else could I convince to wear this costume :)

Spanky

Ziggy

Edna

and Rufus.

Stay tuned for the artful adventures of RAEvN and her supporting canine cast.

Butterflies

2011-09-21T12:52:00.001-05:00

The caterpillar dies so the butterfly could be born. And, yet, the caterpillar lives in the butterfly and they are but one. So, when I die, it will be that I have been transformed from the caterpillar of earth to the butterfly of the universe.

--- John Harricharan

Pages in my “FrAgMEntEd “ Journal

2011-09-20T12:03:00.002-05:00

I decided to incorporate and journal about my first and second prototypes for the cover to show how my idea developed.

I had a lot of leftover parts from the journal cover so I decided to create another collage of myself. I like the idea of repurposing less than “perfect” copies for journaling.

Yes it is true, I don’t work in my journal in an orderly fashion. After creating the page above I decided that I needed a different cover page so I pasted in another piece of paper. A circle cutout gives a peephole to the next page.

Now that I have this art journal that I love I need to start working in it. I put in just what I am thinking about “Looking for Inspiration”. To add literal meaning and an interactive component I make my eyes moveable.

Yes I do look a bit crazy! LOL!

Sketchbook Challenge Theme–Unfurled

2011-09-15T12:50:00.001-05:00

The theme for this month’s Sketchbook Challenge is “unfurled”. I plan on using photographs of myself a lot in my “Fragmented” journal. Since my art is already in some way about myself, I want to explore this idea more literally. I also want to incorporate more interactive elements to this journal.

As Kim journaled with each mark, thought and idea put to paper…

More marks, thoughts and ideas unfurled…

The three dimensional moveable layout has yielded several opportunities for different photos. With the addition of light and shadows there are even more possibilities. After looking at this journal entry on the blog I see that there is a need for some marks and a journal date. To be continued…

Finished…at least for now.

My New Art Journal!

2011-09-15T10:41:00.002-05:00

I have been trying to complete my journals before I start a new one but I just couldn’t resist. This journal is about me. Yes I am “fragmented” which only further explains my inability to complete a journal before beginning a new one. So information from this year will be found in multiple journals. Also, I have the habit of not writing in my journal on consecutive pages. This happens when I want to work over a previously painted page and the next one in my book isn’t the color(s) I want to draw or journal on. Perhaps I am happy and want to write on a sunny yellow background so I skip the Pthalo blue/ Burnt Umber page.

The idea for this fragmented picture came from an article that Angela Cartwright had written in one of Stampington’s publications. In that article she had collaged a face from various photos of herself from different ages. I have been wanting to explore that idea for years. It takes a lot of prep work though. First you have to find a variety of pictures of yourself at different ages, then scan them into the computer and print them out in the sizes you want.

I came up with the idea for incorporating the apple slicer while creating one of my assemblage figures (Which I’ll blog about in the future.) Each slice captures different moments in time in my life.

First I etched the title of my journal, them I torched the copper to give it a nice patina. I love the rich colors that copper can have! I only applied the antiquing solution to the title area. Then I sprayed on a glossy clear coat to protect the finish.

Being creative and organized doesn’t work together for me. When I am in one of my most creative moods I like to work quickly to keep the ideas flowing. Being organized is a hindrance for my creative self. Then when the creative flurry is over or I can’t stand the mess anymore I organize. My creativity and organizational skills are fragmented. But in a way I use creativity and organization both to help defragment myself. Getting ideas out of my head and onto paper helps to declutter my brain. Organizing helps to compartmentalize and put ideas and memories in their place.

So what if I’m fragmented! THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ART FOR ME IS TO KEEP CREATING! It also helps my organized side that I date each journal entry.

I made this journal with coptic binding. The pages are torn down to size from sheets of 140# watercolor paper. The cover is a bit bulky with the apple slicer but doesn’t seem to hinder working in it for me. I find the journal to be very inspiring in itself and have all sorts of ideas to fill it with.

Another Art Journal Page

2011-09-08T09:27:00.003-05:00

I drew this last night on a prepainted page in my journal. The face is larger than life so that was a challenge for me. I am not used to drawing such big eyes.

Goat Vignette

2011-09-08T09:18:00.002-05:00

A little goat vignette. The angora goats in the frame above are Little Lulu and Baby Dumpling. That picture was taken about 14 years ago. The clock portrays the passing of time on my little hobby farm. I used to collect goat related items, before I had even heard of eBay. Goats were hard to find then. The internet has changed that. I am trying not to collect anything these days. I don't like to part with anything in order to make room for the new. I attach memories and feelings to objects.

Creative Inspiration at the Cedarburg Cultural Center

2011-09-03T14:14:00.002-05:00

The Cedarburg Cultural Center is one of my favorite places to visit for inspiration. They are sponsoring monthly Artist in Residence programs. This month the featured artist is my friend Lisa Brobst, who specializes in fabric collage as well as woodworking and furniture design. You can see her creating on Thursdays from noon-3pm. This is my window view from last Thursday (much better in person without camera glare!)

In addition, Lisa will conduct a special workshop on fabric collage for families on:

Saturday, September 24: 10 am - 1 pm

House Design Continued - Kitchen View

2011-09-02T18:37:00.004-05:00

Here is where the bench usually is in the kitchen (see previous post). The jug terrarium was Mark's and has survived for over 30 years. The grandmother clock was from a kit that my grandma Eleanore's husband put together. The hoya plant on the top of the clock was mine since I was a teenager, so it probably is almost 40 years old. They are very hardy plants. I only have a few plants, these are ones that have survived years of neglect. The wooden boards that hold my curtains are eveners from an old wagon. They even out the animals when they are pulling the wagon. Other than the pillows and potted flowers in the window this is a regular view from my kitchen. Bonus -This was a good incentive to wash my windows inside and out.

Photo Styling My Living Room

2011-08-30T13:11:00.001-05:00

I have been pinning beautiful home design ideas using Pinterest. Pinterest allows you to "pin" pictures off of their site and other websites creating a virtual bulletin board to store ideas.

I am inspired to photo style objects in my house "feathering the nest." This is a view from my living room. The only piece in it's original location to the way we really live is the watercolor painting by Violette Yahnke. I bought the painting from her at her last show. The frame was a score from my sister. The bench is from my kitchen and was made by my Dad years ago by combining the bottom of a sewing machine stand to a buggy seat. The table was given to me while helping Bernie Berlin pack to move. The crocheted pillow was made by my Granny Eleanore. The pillow case hanging on the back of the bench is also from Granny. The linen pillow is one I had made and actually turned around to the backside as I felt the flowers embroidered on the front did not match with my design scheme. The lamp is from my studio, a score from St. Vincent dePaul years ago. Spanky the boston terrier is posing as the model dog. What fun this has been!

Now to put everything back to the way we really live. The pillows need to be stored away as the dogs would have them off the bench the minute I wasn't looking!

Sketchbook Challenge - Every Day Objects

2011-08-27T18:58:00.001-05:00

It occured to me today that August is almost over and I hadn't done my Sketchbook Challenge for this month. Here is a cup and saucer from my every day set of dishes. My granny Eleanore had these. I never seen her use them but I thought they were pretty and I liked the quote on the back of the dinner dishes. There are only 4 dinner plates left, but I have plenty of cups for tea.

Art Studio - Cedarburg, Wisconsin

2011-08-15T22:36:00.003-05:00

You are invited to a reception to celebrate
The Grand Opening of our new Art Studio

Featuring artists Joan Hollnagel, Mary Newcomb and Kim Rae Nugent

Third floor in the Settlement Building,
Located on Bridge and Washington Streets
In Historic downtown Cedarburg

Thursday, August 25th
4 pm to 8 pm

refreshments served

Journaling at the Weather Center Cafe in Sheboygan

2011-08-10T20:13:00.004-05:00

Sketchbook page from the day Jill Shulse and I went to a coffee shop named the Weather Center Cafe in Sheboygan, WI.

2011 Vacation Journal

2011-06-14T17:22:00.007-05:00

My friend Jill K. Berry gifted me this journal she made. I had been saving it for "something special". Something special was a trip with my husband Mark to visit long time friends John & Gail in Idaho and Randy in Montana. I love the small portable size of this journal and it was my goal to completely fill it during our vacation. The 72 pages, although tiny proved to be a daunting task. Today I have finished the journal, 10 days since the end of our 10 day trip. So this journal comprises everything artful that I have created in 20 days. Below is a sampling of the pages.

A fold out map showing the route we took plus where we stayed overnight.

This was one of the few paintings that I was able to create while on our vacation. It is a view from "Ancient Hunters Overlook" in the Badlands. I had a lot of time to journal while driving but motion sickness makes this impossible for me. By the time we parked for the night I was usually too tired to journal.

I did take over 300 photos during the trip and Mark took over 700. So I had a lot of reference photos to work from.

We visited Yellowstone. I was in awe about the numbers of wildlife that we seen there.

We brought a lot of food along and cooked many of our meals. Mark's fortune from a chinese take out that we treated ourselves to.

Road Trip 2011

2011-06-08T22:43:00.003-05:00

On Thursday, May 25, Mark and I started our road trip to Idaho. About thirty years ago we went on our first road trip, our honeymoon. We don't vacation very often and with the current price of gas and other reasons to think of it, it probably wasn't the best time to travel. But we had already delayed this trip for 18 years...

Spanky came along. Rufus and Ziggy went to Grandma's house and Edna stayed with Brook.

Nice View!

Mark did all of the driving.

Spanky and I enjoyed the scenery on the way.

There was elk all over town in Mammouth Springs.

I found a buffalo in a wash of paint in my Journal earlier this year. I had no idea at that time we would be traveling out west and actually see buffalo. Many buffalo!

I was in awe of all of the wildlife at Yellowstone Park. Mark and I seen 4 black bear, many bison, lots of elk, mule deer, Eagles, pronghorn,mountain goats, dall sheep, and even a wolf. Is this how it used to be all over, before "white man" took over? We traveled through different temperatures and weather depending on our elevation in the mountains.

We even were greeted by a Raven at the park. I now have several nice reference pictures to add to my folder.

We seen buffalo at all different elevations in Yellowstone.

We stopped to see "Old Faithful". Not yet time for it to spout off.

Our next stop was Thompson Falls where we met with our good friend Randy Umbs. Randy used to be our next door neighbor, then he moved to Hayward, Wisconsin. For all the time he lived there we talked about visiting him but never made the trip. Now that he lives on the West side of Montana we visit him. Life is full of surprises, and sometimes you need to make them happen!

Spanky thoroughly enjoyed being the only spoiled dog. The sleeping space above the cab was the perfect spot. He could see out the windows on all sides.

Our Locomotion and Lodging. Our riverside camping spot on the Clark Fork River, courtesy of Randy.

A pair of eagles floating on a log in the Clark Fork River.

Our destination point was Clark Fork Idaho where we spent three fabulous days talking, eating and relaxing with good friends John & Gail, Kristin and Gerald.

Village Wide Rummage Sale

2011-05-20T23:32:00.005-05:00

Nothing like a village wide rummage sale to get my heart going! I have every excuse in the book, usually, to not walk especially on a windy rainy day...except if there is the opportunity of spending some time at a village wide rummage sale. Just one more house, just one more street...my motivation for walking. Not too far into the quest I find this:

A library card cabinet. Actually there was two sections side by side for a total of 30 drawers for $10. I could hardly believe my eyes and scurry to pay for the cabinet before someone else claims it. The owner tells me that she had another section available. So for $20 I have added 60 drawers to my cabinet collection. Not that I needed another cabinet! The downside to my find is that the sections don't have a finished backside or top. Mark wanted to know where was I going to put this. He took the cabinet sections apart so I could stack them vertically instead. After a couple of days pondering, here is the result of how I squeezed three sections into my assemblage studio.

I am sure that I can find a place for the fourth section. Many happy hours sorting junk and labeling drawers await me!

Coloring Easter Eggs

2011-04-23T15:57:00.005-05:00

Today the dogs and I colored Easter eggs. I have no grandchildren, so I improvise :)

Gertie was the most willing to wear the bunny ears.

Rufus thinks he hears the Easter Bunny!

Spanky was really the only one who was actually interested in the whole egg dyeing process.

and stayed until the end.

Inspire My Life Retreat

2011-04-19T09:34:00.005-05:00

I have been given the fortunate opportunity to teach at "Inspire My Life Retreat" this Summer in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. The retreat runs from Thursday July 28 - Sunday, July 31. Come for 1 or more days. I will be teaching two classes on "Interactive Art Journaling". Sign up for both classes or one. Friday, July 29, 12 - 6pm and Saturday July 30, 9am - 3pm. I hope to see you there!

PS - I'm taking classes too!

64 Annual Ozaukee County Art Show

2011-04-05T20:55:00.006-05:00

I entered my owl assemblage titled He Knows Who in the 64th Annual Ozaukee County Art Show at the Cedarburg Cultural Center.

The saw handle was the inspiration for this assemblage as it reminded me of an owl's head. The shape of the handle is just as I found it. The body is made from a wood casting pattern. The wing feathers are made from the clips of an old fishing stringer and a recipe page for eggs from a vintage book. The feet are curtain hooks and tail feathers are made from parts of Christmas tree candle holders. I cut out and etched the brass plate with the phrase HE KNOWS WHO. The phrase relates duality of the noise an owl makes and what the wise man knows. The cast metal drawer pull was the final addition.

To see more of my assemblage figures click here.

I was greeted by a nice surprise when I went to the opening of the Show on Sunday.

Actually two surprises as my Mom Joan Hollnagel also received a ribbon. It is always special to have one's art validated in this way, thank you judges!

Both pieces of art were hung on the wall next to each other. Click on my Mom's picture to see all of the amazing detail that she has incorporated into this design.

Figure Drawing Group

2011-04-01T19:24:00.005-05:00

I joined a figure drawing group. We meet once a week for a 3 hour drawing session with a live model. I haven't done this since college. It feels good to get back on the horse! Actually I don't remember the horse being that uncomfortable. I am bringing with a chair to sit in next time! Our model was Julie. Above a couple minute long sketches.

5 minute pose.

10 minute pose

15 minute pose

1 hour long drawing of the 2 hour pose. I redrew this same pose in my art journal as I had finished this one as much as I cared to.

My First Art Journal

2011-03-05T08:48:00.004-06:00

I am in the process of organizing photos and family history. I thought it would be fun to share part of my trip down memory lane.

Here is my first art journal. I am around 6 or 7 years old. Like many of my art journals, sketchbooks, or scrapbooks (call them what you want) I usually didn't finish filling them in before I was on to the "brand new" book - something I still struggle with. I am trying really hard to completely finish one journal before starting another these days.

Yes, we always had some kind of wild animal that we rescued. I would not recommend it today. Racoons carry diseases that we didn't know of back then. Seeing these pages just reaffirms art and animals have always been a constant for me.

I am a OWOH Winner!

2011-02-28T21:35:00.002-06:00

I participated in the OWOH event this year. I had the wonderful experience of visiting several blogs. But, not as many as I would have liked to. I am thrilled to be a winner from the blog of Nikki Smith http://www.booksmithstudio.com/. My prize is an 8" x 8" print of

Planet Path

Based on a 360 degree panorama photograph of a rural Bryan, Texas. Check out Nikki's blog for more planets and book arts.

Looking at this particular planet makes me think of: the paths we choose; what if there was only one path? and do we create our own path.?

Thank you Nikki!

Sketchbook Challenge - Opposites - Hare

2011-02-24T19:28:00.002-06:00

For the February Sketchbook Challenge, I created the Hare an "opposite" to a previous art journal page the Tortoise.

Sketchbook Challenge - Opposites

2011-02-21T09:14:00.003-06:00

Opposites 1
I started out working with foregrounds and backgrounds, with opposing views on each page. Then I searched the internet for quotes that spoke to me.

Opposites 2
After thinking about Marc Chagall's quote "All colors are the friends of their neighbors and the lovers of their opposites". I decided to add the "opposite" color to blue, which is orange. I think a much richer version than Opposites 1.

Edna's Father Wins Best of Breed at Westminster!

2011-02-20T17:29:00.003-06:00

Edna's father Hoss, won best of breed boston terrier at the 2011 Westminster Dog Show. Edna is our little sweetie. She is one of Gertie's puppies, my daughter Brook's dog. A picture of Hoss on the big screen at Madison Square Garden. Brook also was showing a boston terrier at Westminster. She is wearing an all red suit in this video for the boston terrier group.

After Westminster Brook brought Hoss home for a few days. I brought Edna over so that she could meet her father.

Frankie (Edna's brother), Hoss and Edna. Gertie couldn't be in the picture because she was in heat. Not quite the right time to add to the family :)

Sketchbook Challenge - Opposites

2011-02-16T22:08:00.002-06:00

The February theme for the Sketchbook challenge is opposites. I had a page prepped with the purple and gold mix and decided that these colors opposite on the color wheel would be my inspiration.

My cup of chai tea was the inspiration for this page. Chai tea...one of my favorites.

When you get to the end of all the light that you know

2011-02-05T10:29:00.002-06:00

When you get to the end of all the light that you know & it's time to step into the darkness of the unknown...
Faith is knowing one of two things will happen: either you will be given something solid to stand on or you will be taught how to fly. -Edward Teller

One World One Heart 2011

2011-01-28T22:23:00.009-06:00

Welcome to RAEvN's Nest! I hope that you enjoy your visit here! I am Kim Rae Nugent, a mixed media artist who enjoys exploring just about any art medium. Besides creating art, I have four Boston Terriers who keep me company in my studio and several granddogs who visit often. I am married and have a lovely family, but for the most part I keep this blog art related. I live in Fredonia, Wisconsin, USA

My giveaway is a signed copy of my book "Interactive Art Workshop: Set Your Mixed Media Art in Motion" .

Just leave a comment on this post to be included in the drawing. I must be able to contact you from your comment. Open to all active bloggers worldwide. The winner will be announced Feb. 17th and I will email the winner as well as post it here.

Congratulations! The winner of my OWOH giveaway is Rusted Wings Gallery!

Rose

2011-01-28T16:56:00.002-06:00

The long winter has a hold on me. At least when I create a journal page I feel a bit productive. Rose my granddog is over for a visit this week.

Doodling Continued

2011-01-27T10:50:00.001-06:00

I decided the revisit the pod shape that emerged from the previous doodle. It was a conscious choice to draw three pods. The rest developed as I went along.

The Sport of Doodling

2011-01-24T21:05:00.001-06:00

I have been inspired by the doodling or zentangles of other "Sketchbook Challenge" artists. So while watching with friends the Packers vs Bears game and the Steelers vs Jets I doodled. I probably missed a lot of the games action...but look at my doodles!

Bumper Cow - Madison, Wisconsin

2011-01-20T17:35:00.002-06:00

Every once in awhile I google my name and this image came up. One of my accomplishments before I started this blog. My husband and I made this for Cow Parade Wisconsin 2006. 101 cows were displayed in and around Madison. I designed and painted the "Bumper Cow". My husband Mark fabricated the seat and opening. He also attached the pole and steering wheel. After they were done being displayed, the cows were auctioned off to benefit various charities.

The story behind this is Mark had surgery on both big toes and his knee before it was due. He took a little time to recuperate before finishing the fabrication. This left me with only 1 week to paint the entire cow, so being stressed out, I gave myself a migraine which lasted the entire time. Sometimes we can't enjoy the process!

Art Journal Page

2011-01-17T09:10:00.007-06:00

A wash of dioxazine purple and nickel azo gold acrylics. Do you see what I see?
?
?
?
?
He is just staring at me...
?
?
?

I see a buffalo, so with the help of colored pencils I bring him out. I have no journaling inspiration of my own for this buffalo, perhaps it is because I live in Wisconsin, and I have no personal experience with them.

Next I google "buffalo quotes". I find this - "What is life? It is the flash of a firefly in the night. It is the breath of a buffalo in the Wintertime. It is the little shadow which runs across the grass and loses itself in the sunset." Crowfoot

I write down the quote. Then pencil in snow and a bit of buffalo breath, which were not in the plan until I found the quote.

A cold snowy day today, I doubt I will see buffalo breath though :)

Edna Has a Full Page Ad

2011-01-16T21:29:00.002-06:00

This is Edna's full page ad that appears in the latest issue of the Coast to Coast, a magazine of The Boston Terrier Club of America My daughter Brook is a graphic artist and was the designer. Her company is Gunther Graphics, named after her first Boston. Yes I am biased, I think my little Edna is adorable!

Today's Art Journal Page

2011-01-15T21:18:00.011-06:00

My journal entry for January 15, 2011:

First, I looked for a face

and found her, with eyes wide open.

Then I gave her a dove,

so she could be at peace with what she saw.

RAEvN

Today I tore down a watercolor paper into 8" x 10" sheets. Then I painted washes on them. This one has a wash of Burnt Umber and Phthalo Blue. Isn't it amazing all the colors that can be created from mixing only two colors? I turned the paper around in all directions until I settled on this one. From this wash of paint I created the journal entry above using colored pencils.

bleeding hearts

2011-01-14T10:23:00.002-06:00

My latest art journal page. I'm dreaming of Spring, bleeding hearts are one of my favorite flowers. I purposely used black ink for my journaling so as to not compete with the drawing and somewhat camouflage it. In retrospect using a white gel pen may have made it more visually interesting.

Jack in the Pulpit

2011-01-07T20:09:00.002-06:00

After drawing the Jack in the Pulpit I needed some inspiration of what to write. I wandered around on facebook, seen a post by Jill K. Berry, visited her blog...and found a poem that I liked by Wendell Berry. Thank you!

Rufus - Sketchbook Challenge - Highly prized

2011-01-04T20:41:00.001-06:00

My posting for the "highly prized" theme of the Sketchbook Challenge wouldn't be complete without Rufus. I am on a journaling roll. I hope to continue this pace for the rest of 2011.

Sketchbook Challenge - Highly Prized

2011-01-02T16:41:00.004-06:00

I decided to join the group The Sketchbook Challenge. One of my goals for 2011 is to try and work in my Art Journal every day. Jill K. Berry is hosting the group this month. The theme for the month of January is "Highly Prized". Jill and I have worked on several projects together and I am looking forward to being inspired by her and the camaraderie of being in a group.

I drew Edna first, our little "Champion". Next was Spanky. Then Ziggy and I want to draw Rufus yet.
Journal pages of Noel the Christmas pigeon. She was with us for just a short time.

Drawing of my Dad. It's most difficult to draw people that you know!

New Years Day Toad. What can I say?

Always have trouble deciding on subject matter. Picasso and Willie Nelson. Two very different artists.

I needed to accomplish something quickly.

Sketched while sitting in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina.

Merry Christmas from Olive

2010-12-25T22:21:00.002-06:00

A Pigeon in a Pine Tree

2010-12-25T20:52:00.003-06:00

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me "A pigeon in a pine tree!"

Two weeks ago today I was driving to West Bend to do some Christmas shopping. On the way I noticed a bird huddled by the side of the road, it was sleeting out. I pulled over to check it out and it was a pigeon. I stooped to pick it up and it didn't even try to get away. It's wing was broken, eye bloodied and blood coming from the beak. The prognosis didn't look good, but I put the pigeon on the mat rubber side up in the back of my car and scooped up a bit of snow. At least it would be out of the elements (I hate Winter, and being cold). I checked on it at each stop and noticed it took a drink of the now melted snow. I did my planned shopping and when I arrived home the pigeon was still alive. So I put it in a crate with some water and food. It drank a little water. The next day Noel, the pigeon, was moving around a bit and it's eye was mostly cleared up. I taped the wing up and hoped for the best, which would be to release it back into the wild. Noel has recovered except for it's wing. I guess I now have another pet. The pigeon is quite friendly and enjoys coming out of the crate. Time to find a bigger cage!

Etsy Shop Updated

2010-12-05T20:26:00.001-06:00

I have been busy uploading items to sell in my Etsy shop RAEvNsNest today. Besides art I am also listing collage, assemblage and other art supplies. All of this takes so much time! I have been telling myself all year that in the Winter this will be my focus. So lets keep trying :)

New Beginnings

2010-11-28T10:04:00.002-06:00

Did you ever read something that held so true for you personally and reasonated with your soul that it almost seems like it came from within, instead of someone else. The following holds true for me:

There are times to cultivate and create, when you nurture your world and give birth to new ideas and ventures. There are times of flourishing and abundance, when life feels in full bloom, energized and expanding. And there are times of fruition, when things come to an end. They have reached their climax and must be harvested before they begin to fade. And finally of course, there are times that are cold and cutting and empty, times when the spring of new beginnings seems like a distant dream... Chogyam Trungpa (1937-1987)

Etsy shop, Main Street Gallery, Blizzard of Art Show

2010-11-26T16:26:00.011-06:00

I painted every minute I could for two weeks straight and below is the result. My husband Mark was out of town for much of the time so I really had the opportunity to concentrate on art. I had hoped to make one piece of art a day...not quite! I also had one more piece I was working on but it was giving me problems, so I have abandoned it for now.

After over 1 year I have reopened my Etsy shop RAEvNsNest. It is difficult for me to decide where to concentrate my efforts. These assemblages using cigar boxes and metal casting patterns have been flying around in my mind for years, so it feels good to execute them.

The cigar boxes can be used to keep treasures or mementos on a table or shelf. They can also be hung on a wall for a look with extra dimension.

Black-billed MAGPIE hand-painted on cigar box SOLD

This is an original painting of a black-billed Magpie on a wood cigar box. The magpie has found a shiny jewel and is about to stash it through the keyhole of an ornate brass plate. A combination of painting and found objects make up this unique assemblage piece. The cigar box measures 5 ½”” tall x 9 ¾” wide x 1 1/2” deep.

Saw-whet OWL hand-painted on cigar box

This is an original painting of a Saw-whet owl on a wood cigar box. The original logo hints to the shape of the moon. A metal number tag is the finishing touch for this assemblage piece. The cigar box measures 5 3/4” tall x 7 ¾” wide x 2 1/2” deep

GREAT HORNED OWL hand-painted on cigar box

This is an original painting of a great horned owl on a wood cigar box. Parts of the original lettering peek through the bird to hint of the original character of the box. Brass clock parts are the finishing touches for this assemblage piece. The cigar box measures 8” tall x 4 ½” wide x 3 1/2” deep.

OXPECKER bird hand-painted on cigar box SOLD

This is an original painting of a Oxpecker on a wood cigar box. The bull stamped on the cigar box cover was the inspiration for the Oxpecker as a subject and red trim echos the color of the bullfighter's red cape. Metal number tag and key are the finishing touches for this assemblage piece. The cigar box measures 7 1/2” tall x 7 ¼” wide x 2 1/4” deep.

For more views visit my etsy shop RAEvNsNest.

I also decided to take advantage of the gallery space that our artist guild has at the Cedarburg Cultural Center called Main Street Gallery. The Cultural Center is also sponsoring a show called Blizzard of Art (All artwork is under $200) Below are the pieces I have displayed there.

BARN OWL hand-painted on antique wood casting pattern SOLD

This is an original painting of a barn owl on an antique wood casting pattern. The aged patina of the wood makes the perfect backdrop for this realistically portrayed owl. The wooden pattern is 3-D and the owl’s feet are painted as if setting on the molding that protrudes from the back piece. The old wooden casting pattern is from Gilson bros foundry in Fredonia, Wisconsin and measures 18” x 10” x 3 ½” at the widest point. The metal number plate is original to the pattern but has been repositioned for aesthetic reasons.

Spotted TOWHEE bird hand-painted on wood box

This is an original painting of a spotted Towhee on a wood box. Antique drawer pull, keyhole plate and glass beads add the finishing touches for this assemblage piece. The wood box measures 3 1/2” tall x 5 ¾” wide x 4” deep.

RAVEN hand-painted on cigar box SOLD

This is an original painting of a raven on a wood cigar box. Old clock parts are the finishing touches for this assemblage piece. The cigar box measures 5 3/4” tall x 4 ½” wide x 3 3/4” deep.

The Nugent Zoo

2010-11-07T07:44:00.003-06:00

I thought I would share a few pictures from the Nugent Zoo.

Here is Rufus. He is a rescue dog from Bernie Berlin. I don't know what kind of life he had before but he is obsessed with blankets. He usually covers himself completely. I am keeping his name but if I were to rename him it would be Linus. Rufus also has space issues when he is sleeping. He doesn't want to be next to the other dogs. Otherwise Rufus enjoys being around them and playing with them.

Here is Edna, Ziggy and Spanky. They obviously don't have space issues.

Picture of them from another day.

Milwaukee County Zoo

2010-11-06T21:55:00.014-05:00

Today was a Family Free Day at the Milwaukee Zoo. My daughter Brook had read my comment on facebook about how I hadn't been to the Zoo in a long time and wanted to. When Brook found this special offer at our zoo she suggested we go.

I stopped by her house and just before we got into her car I seen a penny.

"See a Penny Pick it up, for the day you'll have good luck".

I snatched it and put it in my pocket without saying a word ;)

I told Brook if she drove I would pay for parking. Parking is $11.00 and the admission fee per adult is usually $11.75 for this time of year. When we arrived we noticed all the cars parked along Bluemound with people walking into the Zoo grounds. What a good idea, besides the cost of gas this will be a FREE outing. We turned on a side street where other Zoo attendees were parking. I glanced at the sign and it said-

We are such thrifty girls! What a beautiful Fall day. Perfect weather to walk around the zoo.

Our first stop was the penguins. They were very amusing to watch. Unfortunately I am not an action photographer so this was the best I could do.

Here we are. Our plan was to take another picture in better lighting but it never happened.

They have one of those machines at the Zoo if you insert a penny plus 50 cents it flattens the penny with an impression of the Zoo in the shape of an oval medallion. I pick the one with a peacock on it. I confess to Brook about the penny...

When we arrived in the primate building Brook sees another machine with different monkeys for the medallions. I tease that I wish that I had waited before spending my money. Brook pays to make me a monkey medallion. I plan on putting them in my journal.

It is simply amazing the variety of animals we have on Earth!

This handsome fellow was in the aquarium. I wish that I had written down the names of my picture subjects. He reminds me of the incredible Mr. Limpet.

He looks like he is trying to tell us something.

Perhaps that we are such thrifty ladies...

And reminder, we gotta stick our necks out there so people know what we do... And how we can help them!

There is a snake loose and it's not this fellow!

Caribou and

Grizzly bears. This fellow seems to actually enjoy all of the attention. Did you notice the bear in the hammock below the deck?

Camels can drink up to 25 gallons of water at once. I have trouble drinking 2 quarts in a day!

Time to leave. Brook and I comment how we each only spent 50 cents - not bad hey? Oh and I forgot that I splurged on a Pepsi out of the machine for $2.00. We get in the car and there it is...on the windshield...tucked under the wiper arm...how could it be...a ticket! We get out to look, Mr. Police Officer is driving by. He says he is sorry, apparently there were many people who made the same mistake. I walk over to the sign again and I see what I missed the first time.

After reading the green sign I didn't bother to read on. I just assumed the 1 hour rule did not pertain to Sat-Sun and Holidays. Besides the red sign was way above my eye level. No excuses!

This is how I feel...time for bed.
"See a penny pick it up, for the day you'll have good luck... if you don't flatten it's face value!"

The next Family Free Day is December 4, are you game?

Boston Terriers

2010-11-05T23:18:00.003-05:00

Brook came over with her Boston Terriers and we had a photo shoot. Rufus is in front because he has major space issues. The rest were happy to pose together with the prospect of a cookie in their future. Left to right - Geraldine, Spanky, Gertie, Frankie, Olive, Edna & Ziggy.

Belle Amoire Jewelry Submission

2010-11-05T22:11:00.004-05:00

Last week Monday Jill and I had another art day at her house. Our goal was to finish a submission for Belle Amoire Jewelry. Part of this required a picture of each of us. Above is our pictures with a peek at the project we are wearing. Jill's yard provided us beautiful fall foliage for our backdrop. We always look like this when we get together to make art :D

Look for our article in an upcoming issue of Belle Amoire Jewelry.

Visiting My Sister in North Carolina

2010-10-25T19:16:00.020-05:00

For my birthday my sister treated me to a trip to North Carolina. Both my sister Jodi Hollnagel-Jubran and her husband Hanna Jubran are prolific sculptors and I was looking forward to seeing some of the work they had completed since the last time I visited.

I also met Jodi & Hanna's new puppy Zues for the first time. He is adorable!

Jodi picked me up at the airport in Greenville and we headed on our way to Asheville.

This is Jodi's recent piece for the veterans' memorial in Asheville, NC. The seated lady reading a letter from a loved one represents the families of men and women in the armed forces who must wait at home while their loved ones are serving. Jodi also made the relief sculptures signifying the different military forces of the USA.

The Art Deco styled Asheville city building is beautiful. Look at the stained glass light. Wish I was there to see it lit up!

Models are one of my many interests and I found these of Asheville's City Building and Court House.

The Phil Mechanic Studios is one of the many studios that we visited. I would love to have a studio in a building like this, filled with artists to inspire each other. I also realize that I love being at home and working at my home studio. Wherever I went would have to allow me to bring my dogs...4 boston terriers :)

I love seeing the pigeons in town. Perhaps I need some country pigeons!

Friday evening in Asheville is the place for drummers, dancers, and gatherers to be. The music and experience is was very moving.

Jodi sitting by the French Broad River.

This butterfly modeled for several minutes allowing me to get multiple shots of the irridescent wings.

We spent the third day in Marshall. A cute cozy riverfront town in the Mountains of North Carolina.

A vintage police car with the word "Mayberry" on the star parked outside of the cop shop. There is also a ruler on the side of the building to mark the flood water. We were told by one of the locals that Marshall is in a 50 year flood plain and it flooded twice last year.

The Madison County Court Seat in downtown Marshall.

Greensboro was on the way home so we stopped to see the Spartan that Jodi made. The Spartan resides at the University of North Carolina - Greensboro.

My brother-in-law Hanna Jubran is a sculptor and professor at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. Pictured is a water fountain that he created, which is located outside of the Greenville Museum of Art.

We also stopped at the Library where a sculpture made by both of them is featured. Even though they usually each design their own work, sculpture for them is a team effort.

Another one of Hanna's sculptures in Greenville, North Carolina.

My sister also recently completed The Hands and Heart Sculpture at the East Carolina Heart Institute.

We stopped at the park, the mosquitoes were horrid so I only looked for about 15 minutes but was able to find all of these fossils and shark teeth in the creek. I hope to create some art incorporating these finds.

Charm Necklace

2010-09-29T14:14:00.002-05:00

I have been at a crossroads artistically wondering what direction I want to pursue. I decided to make this charm necklace using the covers of most of the books and magazines that I have been published in as a reminder to myself of what I have accomplished when it seems I am going nowhere in my art career. The largest charm features the cover of my first book Interactive Art Workshop. A large number of charms are covers of Stampington Publications that my art has appeared in. Time to work on another necklace full of charms!

The Creative Connection Event

2010-09-20T16:05:00.004-05:00

The first time my artwork appeared in a publication was the Sept/Oct issue of Somerset Studio 2002. It was a thrill then and continues to be whenever I see my art in a publication while holding the actual magazine in my hands. Stampington and Company has played an integral part in the growth of my artistic career. I had the fortunate opportunity to help out at the Stampington and Company booth at the Creative Connection Event and meet Christen Olivarez who is the Editor-in Chief & Director of Publishing. Kerri Winterstein is the marketing coordinator manager. Both have a great sense of humor which made for a fun time! Stampington and Company is located in California so I didn't know when I would have the opportunity to visit in person. Whereas the Creative Connection Event was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota about a 6 hour drive from my house.

Stampington & Co. booth. Stampington publishes over 30 magazines. It was fun seeing repeat customers as well as new ones discovering Stampington & Company for the first time.

I met my facebook friend Kecia Franzee Deveney for the first time in person. She wears wonderfully arty outfits, her booth was fabulous, and her jewelry is gorgeous! I also met facebook friends Ruth Rae and Cindy Dean but unfortunately didn't take any pictures. I wish that I had taken more pictures as usual!

The closing party complete with cupcakes...yummm!

Because I worked at the booth in the Handmade Market I missed out on a lot of the other fun going on. I did have the opportunity to attend two morning panels which were fabulous! The panels were:
How to Launch a Business
Blogging: How to Make it Matter More
The exchange of ideas and information was phenomenal! I would certainly recommend this event to any creative woman entrepreneur.

9/11

2010-09-20T15:09:00.004-05:00

A day that I will never forget. A reminder of how vulnerable our Country actually is. A sign I passed on my way home. I took a couple of pictures to record the moment.

God bless the USA. God bless our world of different faiths!

Today 9/11/2010 was also our granddog Gunther's 12th birthday. Mark and I stopped by to drop off his heart medicine and gave him a treat :)

Assemblage Figures

2010-08-11T20:10:00.006-05:00

I am thrilled to announce I have an article featured in the Fall 2010 issue of Art Doll Quarterly. Larry, Helen and Albert are making their debut here. But, to see more of my assemblage figures and article check out the current issue.

LARRY

Larry could not resist the urge to pinch his Mother-in-Law.

HELEN

Helen's heart belonged to the stage.

ALBERT

Whenever Albert's world was turned upside down he was given the opportunity to start over.

ArT PaRtY 2010 & Burning Woman

2010-08-02T20:28:00.019-05:00

This Summer I turn 50 years old. I truly have been blessed the passed 50 years and wanted to celebrate by hosting a three day Art Party at my house. Guests could come for the weekend, a couple hours, or just stop by to say hi.

The main theme of the Art Party was simply to provide a group of artists a place to get together and create for FREE.

BURNING WOMAN
Ever since I have heard of the event Burning Man I have been intrigued with the idea of attending the event. The main drawback for me is that it is held in the middle of the desert. I don't tolerate the heat well and no natural water kind of freaks me out.

Since I am turning 50 and all that goes with the next phase of my life I thought Burning Woman would be a fitting metaphor.

Her nose is a bit large but the hat does a good job of downplaying its size :-)

Nice Nails!

My son Casey building Burning Woman.

Mom, I and the finished product.

Mom & Casey. The fence was around to keep the dogs out since anything in their backyard is of extreme interest to them.

My friend Peggy treated myself and attendees to a chair massage.

There was quite a variety of media that was worked on.
Linda busy making cards. I guess that I better turn on the lights.

Brenda was painting and Ali working on a collage.

Peggy creating a display board for her massage business Timeless Touch Massage.

Jeanne prepping tiles for a mosaic.

The finished poster for Timeless Touch Massage.

Jill Shulse working on a project.

Jill Shulse holding Wilma.

Wilma's mother Flossie trying to con Shelly out of some snacks.

Messages were added

The fire was lit

Engulfed in fire

The flames danced
and danced
a work of art ever changing

Oddly the womb and right temple was where the fire concentrated for a long time

fire is so primal
This story is my gift from Dave - the only guy to witness this event ;)

July 31, 2010 8:30pm -Witnessed a tribal ritual of unexplainable proclaimed artists around a wood statue of a woman. This only happens every 50 years. This picture is the only record. The next day it was gone. Story told

What a perfect gift!

Burning Woman lasted for over an hour then toppled at 10:00pm. Reminding me that nothing lasts forever...but doesn't disappear...only changes.

Peggy and others pulled parts in the pit and it burned all night

Still smoldering the next day!

I plan on making more art to burn!

My friends John & Gail had a tandom celebratory Burning Woman in Idaho since they couldn't be here with me - how thoughtful!

New Granddog

2010-06-05T19:03:00.003-05:00

I have a new Granddog. Her name is Wilma and she is an English Bulldog. Wilma was the only one in the litter. She must be very special!

I've Been Making Maps

2010-06-02T19:41:00.002-05:00

I have been working on projects as a contributing artist for Jill Berry's book Personal Geographies: Mapping Your Stories in Mixed Media. So I haven't been able to show what I have been working on. Here is a little teaser portion of one of my submissions. I have been enjoying working on the projects and have seen some of the art work. Jill's book is going to be fabulous!

New Toys

2010-06-02T19:31:00.003-05:00

I picked up the boys some stuffed animals at a rummage sale.

Spanky, Rufus, Ziggy and the new toys 5 minutes later. I hope that your day was as good as theirs ;)

Resolve and Thou Art Free

2010-04-03T11:21:00.005-05:00

The creation of this necklace actually began in November of 2009 when I found the pulley for a window weight at an antique store in Columbus on my way to Valley Ridge Art Studio with Jill. I finished it yesterday. The leather cord is from a boxer's jump rope I found at the village wide rummage in Fredonia for 50 cents last Spring (score!) I doubt that I will find another one, much less at such a deal! It fits around the pulley wheel like it was made for it. This is the process of assemblage that I find so appealing, bringing together disparate pieces so that they look like they were always made to be that way. I also hung a jump ring made from rebar wire in a hole that was already in the pulley wheel. Next I hammered the stem of a clock part flat and drilled a hole which was strung onto the jump ring before it was closed shut. I like to represent the concept of time in my work. The pulley would move around freely if not bound by time. Instead it is able to only move back and forth within the constraints of time.

I like to combine words with my art and spent an afternoon at Jill's looking at quotes. Sometimes I create my own phrase or poem. Other times I like to use a quote for inspiration. Another requirement was that the words had to fit around the brass ring I had cut out. Resolve and thou art free by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. This quote fits me on so many levels and the more I thought about it the more I liked it. Next I etched the quote on the brass ring.

I spent a huge amount of time trying to decide what to put in the resin of the threaded brass plug with the hexagon opening. My first thought was a mustard seed. I was attracted to it for it's biblical meaning. Matthew 13:31-32 Another parable he put forth unto them, saying, the kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field. Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof. I do like mustard but I am not obsessed with it. What we do have sowed in our fields is alfalfa, clover timothy grass and wild Queen Anne's lace. After researching the symbolism of each and in retrospect of my life I have decided on alfalfa. Alfalfa hay has been the bane of our existence. We have harvested 20 acres of hay for the past 15 years. At one time we had 17 goats but this is another story. Baling hay usually happens on the hottest most humid day of the year with the threat of rain in the near future. I hate baling hay! Having goats was my idea :) I also included an engraving of an eye (all seeing past and present).

If you look at just the right angle in the resin you can see my fingerprint. Not being able to let well enough alone I picked the brass plug up to look at the resin before it was completely dry. I fumbled and left a print so I promptly made up another batch of resin and added a thin layer to cover the rough texture.

Back view of necklace.

After several attempts and 4 1/2 hours later I finally finished fabricating the rebar wire clasp yesterday. Not one of my most productive moments but I am pleased with the results.

I also wrote much of the process and ideas that were developed for this project in my journal. Journaling is a wonderful tool for reexamining ideas, thoughts and time.

Score!

2010-03-27T23:10:00.002-05:00

I scored 250 square feet of pine beadboard from freecycle. Next pull hundreds of nails. I'll keep you posted when I find a project to use these with. I love to recycle wood. My husband and I once dismantled a one room school 24' x 46' that is now our 24' x 30' garage.

Got Milk?

2010-03-27T23:02:00.002-05:00

As you can tell from the above picture Frankie and Edna have been eating well! Picture taken at two weeks old. Their eyes are open now too! It's amazing that you can see a difference in size from morning to night at this stage.

Edna's version of the "Got Milk?" ad.

Book made in Shanna Leino's Workshop

2010-03-16T21:16:00.005-05:00

I finally finished the book that I started in Shanna Leino's Workshop at Valley Ridge Art Studio last November. Rather than etching for surface design I worked the metal by hammering the design onto it. I found this process extremely rewarding for me and look forward to developing it more in the future. Shanna fabricates her own chasing tools and I would like to learn yet another skill. She is an excellent teacher and would recommend that you take a class from her if you ever have the opportunity to.

The focus of this class was hinges and hasps. Shanna had the book boards and pages pre-cut for us. We assembled the books in the first day of class.

The second day of class we started making the hasp. We were all encouraged to make the hasp in our own style. The raven was calling to me once again.

Earlier in Fall I watched the crows eat pears from our pear tree, thus the inspiration for the second part of the hasp. Shanna said the goal was to have enough tension that the hasp stays hooked until you squeeze the book slightly to release it.

I also made pear shaped book bumps and corners to protect the cover. The last two corners are what took me so long to finish, because of procrastination rather than complication.

Edna and Frankie

2010-03-16T20:31:00.005-05:00

Wow, I am surprised to find that my last post was in December. Yes I have been hibernating.

Thought I should post a picture of my new granddogs Edna and Frankie. They are 1 week old today. I am on dog sitting duty while my daughter works.

I think Edna has great potential as a dancer!

Frankie is waiting for his next meal!

Christmas with the Boston Terriers

2009-12-28T07:21:00.003-06:00

Pictured above is the group of Boston Terriers, family and friends that spent Christmas with me. Valentine (mine), Tonka (friend), Grendle (friend), Spanky (foster dog), Geraldine (Brook's), Ziggy (mine in back), Olive (Brook's), Rufus (Mine - Rescue dog from A Place to Bark), Gertie (Brook's).

We went over to my daughter Brook's house Christmas morning and then I brought the granddogs home with me plus two Boston Terriers that Brook was dog sitting. They had a lot of fun in the blanket fort made over the coffee table. Plus everyone received a Christmas bone. Brook had a house full of her husbands family over later Christmas day.

4 Fatbooks Auctioned to Benefit A PLACE TO BARK

2009-12-27T20:34:00.006-06:00

I just listed 4 Fatbooks on eBay with 100% of the proceeds to benefit Bernie Berlin's A PLACE TO BARK dog rescue. These are 3 day auctions and if the winning bidder pays by Dec. 31st the amount will be doubled with a matching grant offered to the rescue.

Fragments

Heavy Metal

Pink and Orange

Strange Botanicals

Rock Found at Valley Ridge Art Retreat.

2009-12-14T22:31:00.007-06:00

It was a warm and sunny Fall day. I decided to take a break from class at Valley Ridge and go for a walk to take advantage of the beautiful weather. I try to get outside at least for a little bit on days like this to savor the weather and hold me through the Wisconsin Winters. On the trail this stone caught my eye.

A man who was part Indian and a collector of Indian artifacts once gave a talk to our 4-H group. He said that if you see a stone and it makes a strong impression on you it probably does have some special significance to it.

The circular opening in the circular socket is what caught my eye. The rock reminds me of a shoulder or hip socket. Perhaps it is because I know several people who have had their shoulder operated on this year including my friend Jill Shulse and a hip replacement for my friend Jeanne.

After holding the rock in my hand for awhile, thinking...it would be a nice artifact to include in a piece of art as a remembrance of my experience at Valley Ridge. The circular opening could be complimented by a dome made with a dapping block that I bought on the way to the retreat at Harbor Freight Tools. We also had used dapping blocks in class.

The starting point will be the a dome to fit in the opening of the rock and to represent the sun. The sun that shone that day, light, birth and creativity.

I have also decided the primary shape for my piece will be a circle to further emphasize the circular opening of the rock and to contrast with the irregularity of the remainder of it. I draw several prototypes on tracing paper, cut them out, fitting them around the rock. Retracing and altering my design several times. I finally decide on swirling rays of the sun to hold the rock in place.

Here is the outer shape cut out of copper.

The rock, main piece, and brass addition to add more body, color and shape to the piece. I have also drawn on a design with a Sharpie marker to act as a resist for etching.

Fitting the pieces together.

A map to marking the spot with an X where I found the rock. An arrow on the bail points North. The curve on Witek Road where the driveway to Valley Ridge is. Buildings, trees and open fields. This part involves a bit of faith for me as the design in sharpie looks cartoonie to me at this point.

The back finished with a patina.

The front with the rays of sun curling around the rock holding it in place. Brass plate held on with micro bolts.

Inspiration from gathering with kindred souls in a atmosphere conducive to creativity lingers long after the event is over. Thank you Valley Ridge Art Studio for providing a special haven for artistic souls.

Hopefully in a future post I will backtrack and revisit my experience at Valley Ridge. Even my journal entries are all over the place, out of order. This is how my mind works :)

SECRET DEVOTIONS NECKLACE

2009-11-21T20:58:00.014-06:00

I bought a brass burner this Summer at a church rummage sale in Cedarburg. I have had the idea to make it into a necklace ever since. I'm glad to finally get started. Jill Shulse, Thomas Mann and Keith Lo Bue are artist's whose work has inspired me in the creation of this necklace. I hope my work reflects inspiration versus copying.

The cover with it's door that opens and closes is the part of the burner that I want to use for this project. The bottom of the burner also has an interesting shape and perhaps will be used in a future project.

The next step for me was to find some type of theme or direction for the piece to take. This engraving from a 1800's book was just what I was looking for. I ponder using the title "A Royal Pickpocket" somewhere in my piece but it is not quite the direction I am looking for.

I cut out two circles, for the front and the back.

Next to find a quote or write a verse for this piece. The story included with the picture doesn't yield something for me to quote. The man appears to be dreaming so I look up quotes with "dreaming"as the key work...nothing. The pickpocket seems to be stealing a message from the dreamer. Nothing that I write seems sophisticated or mysterious enough. I look up Keith Lo Bue's work. His title's are thought provoking and I want this for my art. I look up a few words in the dictionary and this is what I come up with - SECRET DEVOTIONS OF THE DREAMER LIFTED IN A SURREPTITIOUS MANNER. I love the word "Surreptitious" and after a few days I think that I can finally pronounce it :) There are certain words that I have trouble pronouncing or remembering how to pronounce. My Grandma had this challenge also.

In order to letter this I write it upside down. It is really bothering me that the lettering is upside down so I remove the handle and turn it around. It is not until that I am almost done that I realize the handle now covers part of the lettering. After going back and forth several times, I decide I would rather have the handle cover part of the lettering than to have it upside down.
Final fit for the dreamer.

I had been using plexiglass for my previous projects but was looking for something more natural and aged looking to use. Mica was the answer.Unfortunately I didn't buy the mica at Valley Ridge that I was considering when I was there. I was trying to watch my expenses and had no ideas for it at that time anyways. Mica is not easy to find locally, and in the midst of a project I hate waiting for supplies to arrive via snail mail. Fortunately my friend Jill Shulse had a piece of that I could use :)

Mica arranged over picture for best look.

I decided to cut out the hand to emphasize it. Then drew the rest of the figure on a brass circle and etched it. This will be the plate for the back side of the necklace. I want the back of my work to be as finished as the front.

Close-up of two pieces together.

Mica arranged so that the least amount of spots show.

A brass key hole escutcheon to help protect the "Secret devotions".

A slot cut out from the backing plate that I made to go with the key hole escutcheon. Phrase from the story that came with the engraving.

Working out the arrangement of the necklace. Keys to enhance the theme I am developing. Wooden beads to compliment the wooden handle of the cover. I am also considering an asymetrical design to help balance the wooden handle.

More pieces to consider.

The finished necklace. I had one piece of brass chain from a vintage necklace. Adding a second and different chain gave me the weight I was looking for, plus more variety to the design. I also attached another key that looked like it could work with the key hole escutcheon. I feel this helped to further balance the large handle on the cover.

The clasp is made from a clock part and a nut (from a set of nuts at the dentist's estate sale). After letting it set for a couple of days I still need to redo the wiring on the clasp. It looks to messy for the style of the rest of the necklace and I have thought of a way to make it more neat in appearance.

The backside.

The front with door open. I'm still considering if I want to add something to the inside of the door...

RAEvN's Nest Art Retreat - Thursday Night

2009-10-31T21:32:00.010-05:00

Thursday night's social included a closet full of vintage and slightly odd clothes (some from my own closet :) for dress up and pictures. I sent the pictures to Walgreens and had them ready for the participants before the retreat was over. Here are some of my favorites.

Being the only guy on Thursday (Richard Salley was delayed in Chicago) Randy was worried at first when he walked into the closet. Luckily I had planned for Men's fashions too!

My daughter Brook, decided she liked the jacket and hat and now wants them!

Dianna modeling the latest in Cedarburg fashion.

Janet Davis drove all the way from Pennsylvania to attend RAEvN's Nest Retreat and found this lovely outfit to wear.

Kim Grant looking towards the stars.

Skip Wencl our Birthday girl!

Marie Kennedy sporting the latest in RAEvN's Nest Fashion!

Hmmm kind of how I always look ;)