Katherine's Notebook

Eddie Izzard - When the first Brits/Americans met the Indians

2010-11-25T09:15:00.000-05:00

Skinny French Toast

2010-11-18T11:27:00.005-05:00

Lately, I've made a habit of eating French Toast. I thought to myself," how can I make this healthier and with fewer calories?" I came up with a little plan. After being hungry by mid morning because my cheerios were not holding me over I thought eating something with egg in it was the right approach for being satisfied longer.
Ingredient list:
Several pieces of bread of your choice, stale. (I used Wonder 100% Whole Wheat because it only has 120 calories for two slices.)
Egg Beaters or any egg product in a carton (egg whites.)
Silk Vanilla Soy Milk. Soy milk has a heavy consistency therefore the creamy texture is good for french toast.
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Sugar free maple syrup

Mix a little egg product in a bowl with soy milk and beat together spices. The consistency should be that of eggnog. Use Pam or any kind of spray vegetable oil coating on your pan. Using stale bread, coat each side of the bread and put them in the pan.
Patiently wait for each side to get light fluffy golden brown and a medium heat. Flip toast several times to avoid buring. Use a lid over the pan to capture heat and cook the egg in the middle of the bread so that the texture of the french toast not soggy in the middle. Be patient and don't cook at high heat, the outside will cook fast and burn while the inside will be soggy. If you want to cut more calories skip the dusting of confectioner sugar at the end. Add a little butter spread and smother with sugar free syrup and you have a high protein but sweet treat for breakfast or brunch.

Pumpkin shaped sugar cookies

2010-11-06T17:44:00.001-04:00

I'm posting this as proof that I have done something creative in the last week. Any little thing counts, even playing Betty Crocker. The cookie shapes came from Crate and Barrel. Stay tuned for Christmas cookes. This was just a test run.

Inspiration

2010-10-11T09:48:00.003-04:00

As an artist with an appreciation for all aspects of design, I found inspiration from a toy line that Target offers. The company is Just B. You. They have a line of blocks there were the first blocks that I bought for my daughter. They are squeezable, well packaged pieces of fun. They are sculptural which appeals to the tactile side of learning. Each block has a micro-relief sculpture of an animals and numbers correlating with the number of animals on each block. The packaging is spectacular, all the blocks fit in a nice little bag, making clean up for parents simple. What really drew me to this company is the use of color. The color forecast for design across the board has been that of a tribal nature. The colors in paint, furniture and industrial design are teals, yellows, aqua-blues, variations of pinks and purples. This is a great introduction to the baby of tertiary colors. I'm tired of seeing everything in primary colors. This company has thought of ways to make toys and package them responsibly (recycled or post consumer materials.) There is no doubt that we will probably purchase more toys from this company in the future. Just B. You is being carried at Target in the toy section.

It has been a while

2010-10-07T10:22:00.003-04:00

Since last year I have had a baby. The baby has changed everything. I don't have to call her, "the baby" anymore since her name is Lucy. Since her arrival our lives are consumed by child rearing in a way that I never thought would happen to me, but that being said, she is the priority at the moment. Now that she is about 7 and half months things have gotten easier. Now I can sit down and have a few thoughts of my own that don't involve, feeding or spit-up or diaper changes.

Pumpkin Pie

2009-10-30T16:13:00.002-04:00

We wanted to start out fall with a bang, what a good way to do it!

Baby's room pictures

2009-10-30T10:37:00.003-04:00

Piece of art Ray made for the baby's room at the Guaguin exhibit.

Classic story books, note that the Winnie-the-Pooh book is the classic one, not Disney.

Sheep skin rugs from ikea on earthy dark green rug make the room soft.

Sage color curtain which looks better in real life from the store Old Time Pottery for only 8 dollars. Lamp is from Target.

Art that will be hung on side walls of room. One was found at thrift store several years ago for 25 dollars. It is an original print by Annora Spence, a British poster artist. The other piece on the right is a piece I did at the Guaguin exhibit of stamped horses with color pencil. Yellow was Gauguin's favorite color with the influence of Van Gogh.

Hooks that my friend Caren gave us when we moved in, five years later we found a good use for them.

Rocking chair Ray's mom gave us, beautiful piece.

Top of old Ikea entertainment center being used as book shelf and changing table once kit is installed on top surface.

Ikea shelving re-used as baby storage with added cubes for storage and and color.

Artist interview with Jan Weiss

2009-05-01T12:32:00.005-04:00

Do you have a website or your own blog?

http://www.artprints-online.com/

www.twitter.com/artprintsonline

http://www.artprints-online.blogspot.com/

What inspires you?

Art inspires me. I have been in the industry for 15 years and I can't imagine doing anything else. It's what makes sense to me. I was laid off my job at Art.com in February and chose to take this opportunity to develop my own business. I went live last week and have orders already! In addition to this site I am a licensed and published artist and my extra money earn from this goes to our vacations.

Do you feel you are effective at time management?

Yes I do. Because it's my own business and I know that no money will come in unless I earn it - it makes me very focused and driven. I got this entire business up and running in two months. Two weeks after my lay off I bought my domain name and the Yahoo store template and went to work.

Have you been able to earn a living doing your art at least part time?

Not yet. But between me, my husband and my sales rep I know I will earn a living at this - just too early to tell anything yet.

CSAs

2009-03-16T13:51:00.001-04:00

Community shared agriculture.

MV Knits Video

2008-12-12T13:57:00.001-05:00

I saw this on Etsy for months ago and loved her story.

studio space

2008-11-28T15:31:00.002-05:00

This is my studio / design area. We rehabbed the basement when we moved in.

sketches from last weekend

2008-11-26T14:39:00.005-05:00

Preliminary sketches of animals. Observations from my recent visit to the zoo.

Loft Life Magazine

2008-11-26T11:35:00.003-05:00

If you like to read about sustainability, good design and a modern lifestyle, this magazine is for you. Reclaimed materials are used in many of the featured designs. For the naysayers that think modern is cold and boring, think again! Modern means form follows function in terms of design practicality and aesthetic. Using natural materials like reclaimed wood will add warmth to a space. Modern doesn't mean life devoid of nature. At this very moment, most households across the country are not buying random junk to fill their homes anymore and they are being choosy about what they will buy. Designing with a purpose is now a part of our culture. You can't turn on any lifestyle show on networks like HGTV or DIY without this concept being beaten into you head. If you are looking to re-design and get inspiration this magazine is for you. Sometimes changing your lifestyle means changing your space in order to feel differently.

I had a conversation with someone from Loft Life Magazine yesterday while on Facebook. Loft Life is trying to gain readership and they certainly deserve it. About a month ago I started noticing this magazine at the local bookstore, but like everyone, I'm counting my pennies and passed it up. After viewing their magazine online and seeing what the magazine is about, I will be an avid subscriber. In a week I look forward to receiving a copy in the mail. I will pass up my other design magazines for this one.

Recycled Chairs

2008-07-29T14:02:00.012-04:00

After

Before

I was driving down a street near home where I spotted chairs that were the right size and shape for my kitchen being discarded on someones lawn in our neighborhood. I remembered that I had some fabric that I got at a fantastic discount at a local store a year ago and that is when it came to me to reupholster the chairs. I bought some almond colored paint from Lowes. I bought batting for quilting at a local craft store and I already had a staple gun that I use for building canvas stretchers for painting. With all that I was able go from shabby to chic in a week. The chairs took much longer than anticipated to paint. Plan to spend at least 5 hours in total on just painting. The chairs were from the 60's and in poor condition. Comments and questions welcome.

Environmental Studies and resources

2008-06-28T19:19:00.003-04:00

On my last visit to Oberlin a few weeks ago, I discovered the environmental studies building on Elm Street at Oberlin College. On the same trip at the local bookstore I saw books by David Orr who teaches environmental studies. The students of Oberlin have the opportunity to work with local farmers and they eat what is locally grown. Sustainablity is the word.

Pictures from the week

2008-06-20T21:44:00.003-04:00

Architectural Salvage

2008-06-12T14:22:00.007-04:00

Architectural Salvage

Although this has been a trend for years it is now called upcycling.
If you want a piece of Cleveland, and I do mean that in the real sense of the word go to apieceofcleveland.com . They provide lumber taken from old sites to the public; why cut down trees if you don't have to?

from my garden

2008-06-12T12:13:00.001-04:00

Pine Nut-White Bean Dip

2008-06-09T10:42:00.002-04:00

I found this recipe in the June 2008 Issue of Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

1/4 cup soft bread crumbs
2 Tbsp. fat-free milk
1 15-oz. can cannellini or Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup fat-free or light sour cream (light is better)
3 Tbsp. pine nuts, toasted
2 tsp. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. salt-free garlic and herb seasoning blend
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
2 tsp snipped fresh or oregano or basil
Pine Nuts toasted, (optional)
Assorted vegetable dippers
Fresh oregano leaves (optional)

1. In small bowl combine crumbs and milk; cover. Let stand 5 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, in a blender of food processor combine beans, sour cream, pine nuts, lemon juice, seasoning and pepper. Cover and blend or process until smooth. Add crumb mixture. Cover and blend or process until smooth. Stir in herbs. Cover; refrigerate 2 to 24 hours. To serve, sprinkle dip with pine nuts and oregano. Serve with vegetable dippers.

RubyTwilight

2008-05-13T08:14:00.003-04:00

I friend of mine makes jewelry and has her line on etsy. To view her beautiful pieces, please go to http://rubytwilight.etsy.com . She has a sophisticated sense of style at affordable prices, who can pass this up!

Fashion Week

2008-04-16T07:25:00.002-04:00

I used to think Ohio was flyover country like many people from the coasts. I think Northeast Ohio has much to offer people interested in designing clothes for a living. There have been many successful fashion startups. NEO has first rate resources and capital. Kent State has a well known fashion program. JStyle Magazine is also a terrific resource.

Fashion week is fun so check out the link.

Art of Derek Hess

2008-03-08T18:44:00.005-05:00

From Rust Belt to Artist Belt

2008-03-07T07:54:00.002-05:00

The Community Partnership for Arts and Culture is a good resource for artists.

Martha Stewart

2008-02-29T09:09:00.001-05:00

Etsy will be a featured segment on the Martha Stewart Show today. It is nice to know that I was two years ahead of Martha.

Cedar Lee

2008-02-24T08:57:00.000-05:00

Click here to check out
The Cleveland Independent Movie Goers!

Coffee Meetup

2008-02-23T08:18:00.001-05:00

Click here to check out
The Cleveland Coffee, Lunch & Brunch Meetup Group!

Market Watch

2008-02-13T10:10:00.001-05:00

Marketwatch is website that I often visit. Here's an article on people buying digital art.

http://marketwatch.com/rss/columns/?column=Sophisticated_Investor

Favorites

2008-01-22T09:04:00.000-05:00

Spaces Gallery

2008-01-16T12:02:00.001-05:00

Opening and Gallery Talk this Friday

Phenomena(l)
January 18–March 7, 2008
Curated by Kate Budd
Opening reception Gallery Talk
Friday, January 18, 2008
5–6pm Members' preview hour
6pm Public Reception
Same night, 6pm
Join SPACES World Artist Christa Donner (Chicago, IL) for an informal discussion on her work and residency at SPACES.
It is the fierce intellectual curiosity of artists and scientists alike that drives the search for truth and reason. The artists in Phenomena(l) are our emissaries into the mystery, spectacle, process and pure fun of science. Through their investigations we reconnect with science and re-imagine its role in our lives.
David Bowen Duluth, MN
Nancy Bowen Brooklyn, NY
EG Crichton San Francisco, CA
Dylan Collins Cape Girardeau, MO
Christa Donner Chicago, IL
Erica Duffy Waterloo, IA
Nene Humphrey Brooklyn, NY
Greg Little Findley, OH
Gary Nickard Buffalo, NY
Reinhard Reitzenstein Buffalo, NY
Steven Thurston Bexley, OH
Laura Splan New York, NY
Laura Vinnedge Akron, OH
Click here for more information. Also on view

SPACES World Artists Program>>
Christa Donner
Chicago, IL

SPACELab presents>>
Chelsea Blackerby
Akron, OH

Don't forget!
Monday, January 21, 11am–11pm Eat at Johnny Mango World Cafe & Bar on January 21 and 20% of your purchase will benefit SPACES. Just click here to download the promotional flyer to present to your server. SPACES— and your tastebuds— will thank you!

The Secret Door Project

2008-01-12T09:07:00.000-05:00

I received a beautiful silk screened print this Christmas. Check out this link because this project is comprehensive.

Sweet Corn and Red Pepper Soup

2007-12-05T08:10:00.000-05:00

We often give cookies as a gift around the holidays but you can also do hot meals that can be reheated soon after they are given away. You could give a neighbor this in a mason jar with a nice lid and a card, as long as they eat it within a few days.

7 cups vegetable or chicken stock
8 ears fresh corn on the cob, shucked
1 medium carrot, grated
1 large onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup green pepper, diced
2 tbsp vegetable or organic canola oil
2/3 cup raw cashews
1/2 cup dry sherry
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
Fresh parsley or cilantro, minced

In a heavy pot, bring stock to a boil. Add ears of corn and simmer 5 minutes. Remove corn and set aside to cool. Cut corn kernels off cobs. Then use the back of your knife to scrape the "milk" off the cobs into the stock. In a skillet, saute' a carrot, onion, garlic and green pepper in the oil until soft. Blend corn kernels, cashews and sherry in a food processor with enough stock to help puree the mixture. Add puree' to soup pot, bring to simmer. Season with salt and pepper. Serve garnished with red pepper and parsley. Serves 6.

Please note:
This is from Mother Earth News Oct/Nov 2007 page 66.

Art

2007-12-05T07:33:00.000-05:00

Tractor Supply Company

2007-12-03T07:10:00.000-05:00

Tractor Supply Company supplies everything you might need for your backyard and even some indoor things. I came across the store a long time ago and discoved that even though I'm more of a city dweller this store offered a lot of what I liked. The pricing on the goods in this store is much more competetive than Lowes and Home Depot. Even though you might think that you have to be a farmer to have any interest in this store, think again! You can buy anything from basic garden equipment to birdseed and things for your kitchen. The store publishes a free magazine that features recipes and stories from people around the USA living a rural life and many of them are successful business owners. The stock symbol for this store is TSCO. Even if you live in a city loft I can guarentee something will appeal to you.

Opening of Fusion Studios

2007-11-30T10:47:00.000-05:00

Jennifer Szalkowski and Kerri Frech are having a studio open house for the joint venture they have formed with Lake Erie Artists Gallery. The opening is tonight in a space next to Lake Erie Artists Gallery in Tower City Center. From 4 PM - 8 PM tonight they will serve wine and appetizers. Stop by and do some of the Christmas shopping that you have been putting off. Buy some original art and enter a raffle to win some original artwork by Cleveland area artists.
firetamerglass.etsy.com
frechstudio.etsy.com

With a name like Smuckers ...

2007-11-29T04:16:00.000-05:00

Ohio's economy is moving away from manufacturing into different and much more diversified economy. However, we should not lose all of our manufacturing. With the manufacturing that is left, we need to make sure that employees are treated fairly with a decent wage.It is important make consumers understand that buying a jar of jam that is marked One or Two dollars higher than the generic store brand has the cost of the employee worked into the pricing. Sure the company profits but the employees get health care and above average manaufacturing pay. That is important. People complain about jobs getting shipped overseas but they are the same people visiting dollar stores and paying for cheap wares made in China. Word the the wise, buy quality not quanity and consume less.

I had the opportunity to visit the Simply Smuckers Store in Orville, Ohio a few weeks ago. Smuckers is a name that is synonomous with wholesome goodness. It is not a just a well crafted advertising campaign, it is the truth about the company. Sure all large corporations have pitfalls but this company has not strayed from its core values. I watch the ticker symbol and monitor the stock market based on Smuckers stock. You would never guess that they have many brands under the umbrella of Smuckers. Some of the brands are Borden / Eagle Brand, Pillsbury, Jiff, Martha White etc. The company is located in a farming community that is vibrant and has an excellent workforce. Think of fresh air not smokestacks.

tugboatprintshop

2007-11-07T07:57:00.000-05:00

Tugboat print shop told me about the way they work and this is what they had to say:

Our work is our day job. Its much more work than a day job, and much
more stressful at times, but always more satisfying!

We have always known that we would have our prints for sale online
through our official website, www.tugboatprintshop.com. The idea for an
additional online shop came to us when we discovered Etsy. Etsy provided
us with a easy-to-use template and the means to reach a broader
clientele. We are always eager to find new ways to let people know who we are,
what we do, and what we make.

Traditional Printmaking techniques are processes that are drawing
focused-media (etching, woodcut, lithography, etc). We love
drawing--especially detailed drawings. With printmaking, we create the time-consuming,
intricate drawings that we want to be making and are also able to
print multiples. Editioning allows us to share our work with more people at
more affordable prices.
It's true that digital media can also reproduce things. But giclee, or
offset or inkjet prints, have no real artistic merit. It is just a
file or an image, it isn't really an object of art.

Running a business is something that is new to us, that we learn more
about everyday.

We work to keep ourselves scheduled for more and more shows, projects,
and opportunities each year. This keeps us attuned to what is going on
and propels us to make new work that is part of what is going on in the
arts. Also, our lifestyle basically centers around constantly making
newer and better work. Thankfully, we're the type of individuals that
tend to find inspiration/ideas in nearly everything! We are
continually bouncing ideas for new projects off of each other and often
experience a back-log of ideas (too many projects--so little time!)

Our best advice for people selling work online is to maintain your
vision for your work. Take good pictures, communicate with your customers,
ship fast, and deliver something you can be proud of!

Take the Handmade Pledge

2007-11-01T07:35:00.000-04:00

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow

2007-10-31T06:59:00.000-04:00

I had the chance to meet Kerri Frech from Frech Studio. Her work is in a case in the back of Lake Erie Artists Gallery in Tower City Center in the center of downtown Cleveland. She does beautiful jewelry with a victorian flair. Her creativity doesn't stop there. I saw some beautiful snow flake ornaments that are made out of glass. Buy her ornaments because they make wonderful additions to your holiday display. During the dark days of December they catch light. Put in your order and support handmade products for your holiday instead of mass produced junk that is often shoved down our throats from September until January. See her snowflakes and other pieces of art by visiting her shop. Kerri Frech

Sweetest Pea

2007-10-28T04:43:00.000-04:00

This storefront is fantastic. Handmade stuffed animals. Great design concept from Boston.

2007-10-26T17:37:00.000-04:00

Click here to check out
The Cleveland Independent Movie Goers!

A Scientist's Take on a Creative Life

2007-10-21T13:58:00.000-04:00

When did you know that you were cut out to be artistic?

Late. Very late! Everyone in my family is very artistic. My Mom, brother and sister all draw and paint. My dad and brother build awesome things and put on amazing Halloween “Haunted Houses” that are like Hollywood productions. They’re famous in the San Fernando Valley! I was the ugly duckling of art, the poster-stepchild for artistic deficiency, the black sheep…baaaa. Then again, I made doll furniture, clothes, mini doll food and household items. I just didn’t think it was art. I was a purist at 7. So I went the other way and I became a scientist and banned all artsiness out of my mind. But as I grew older I realized people copy my style, my decorating, my outfits, my original ideas in SCIENCE! A friend got me to make jewelry with her and the creative side of me finally busted out and couldn’t be denied! I still tend to think “Art? Me?” and then I realize that a lot of my science –like worrying about the composition when taking electron images of tiny structures in fish IS art!

How did it make you feel when someone bought something that you made?

Amazing! The most wonderful part is when you realize someone actually “gets it”; that they share your aesthetic. So much that they have to own a piece of it. I find it so weird that we go about the world looking for like minds. To be understood. And when it happens it’s a BAM! moment. It’s so exhilarating! I’ve had people at shows say “I want every single thing on your table” and “This is the exact…(ring, necklace, object)…I’ve been looking for!” or “ I like how your stuff is a little random” or “your color combinations are weird but so right”. It’s like two minds have been wandering around and slam into each other in a moment of recognition and it’s very strange and satisfying. It’ s why I love doing shows and I think it’s why we all like the Treasuries on ETSY so much. A chance to express this shared aesthetic and fish for other like-minds!

What keeps you inspired?

The desire to make something that will strike a chord with people. That will become one of their favorite things. The work of other amazing artists in all genres. I strive to become better and better to deserve to be in the company of such artistic spirit, inspiration and originality. To get something just right, even just for me. The things I haven’t tried yet, the tools I haven’t bought yet (!), the shapes I haven’t produced yet, the colors I haven’t combined yet, the ideas I haven’t expressed yet. There’s a whole world of possibility and even if I’d started at birth there would always be more to try!

www.phbeads.etsy.com
Intelligently Designed

Recipe of the Week

2007-10-20T14:03:00.000-04:00

I was flipping the pages of my old Real Simple Magazine from May 2007 and found this recipe:

barley risotto with asparagus and Parmesan

5 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
1 large clove garlic, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups barley
1 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
1 pound asparagus, cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup (2 ounces) grated Parmesan

Warm the broth in a small saucepan over low heat. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7 minutes or until soft. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute or more. Add barley and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Stir in the wine and cook until tender. It should take 30 to 35 minutes for all the broth to be absorbed. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, and stir in the Parmesan. Spoon into individual bowls.

Photographer Susanna Corson

2007-10-18T07:53:00.000-04:00

Susanna Corson has shown her work all over Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. She is currently in talks with galleries in New York City.

When did you first know that you were going to do something artistic?

Someone gave me a used and outdated (but still highquality) camera - once I saw what I could do with it,I was totally hooked. It developed very organicallyfrom that point.

How did you feel when you sold your first piece of art?

I sold my very first piece to my mom, so I don't know if that counts! When I sold my first piece to a non-related-to-me customer I was kind of shocked. The interaction was very brief, it sort of went: she saw the piece as I was setting up my show, grabbed it,asked how much, and then pulled out her wallet. I was kind of amazed at how quickly she connected to my work. I often say that photographs are the language I use to express emotion, and it was a truly wonderful feeling to be able to connect over something so meaningful to me with a complete stranger.

What makes you stay creative?

I couldn't be any other way. I've done the traditional 9-5 life and it always felt empty, constrictive and meaningless to me. Everything about photography stimulates me, on many different levels. I love the business side of being an artist - trying to come up with creative ways of getting your name out there and being able to pay your bills, I find great satisfaction in the production side of it - creating a finished product with a framed print, and, of course, I adore the creative side of it. I lose myself when I go shooting. I become totally in tune with my environment in a indescribable way. I see things I've never seen before, and find beauty tucked in the most unexpected places. Photography has changed my life.

Barbara Danin

2007-10-17T12:13:00.000-04:00

Barbara Danin is an artist based in the Philadelphia region. Philadelphia is a hotbed of artistic activity. She is an experienced professional who is in various collections. She has an impressive resume. Make sure to visit BarbaraDanin.com

Here is what she had to say about her creativity:

I honestly didn't know I was doing anything artistic but when I was ayoung child I got lots of support from my parents who valued all the craftsand paintings I was creating. I then realized this was refered to as"Art" by others but it was what came naturally to me and was simply what I enjoyed.

I felt great when I sold my first piece of art. It happened in college ata student show and was followed soon after by a gallery discovering my work and wanting to represent me. So all of this was great motivation to continue. I was very fortunate to get this encouragement so early on.

I stay creative since life inspires me and I want to express this on paper. It is also a form of meditation for me and something that nourishesme at a deep level.

It is all Natural Historie

2007-10-17T05:57:00.000-04:00

Straight out of LA.

When did you know that you were cut out to be artistic ?

My elementary school was a public academy for the visual and performing arts, and every Thursday afternoon my first grade fingers itched for all the delights of the art studio – oil pastels, colorful papers, watercolors and clay. We'd do line drawings, collages, paintings and sculptures, we'd emulate Picasso, or view slides of Van Gogh, and sometimes we'd even go outside and draw plants and flowers – my very first plein air excursions.

How did it make you feel when someone bought something that you made?

Selling my first print was very exciting. For me it marked a significant point in my journey as an artist, and even though I do not plan to make art my livelihood, it is very heartwarming to know that others enjoy my work as much as I do.

What keeps you inspired?

Natural Historie is a fanciful collection reminiscent of the past and of nature, crafted in girlish pastels, delicately designed and prettily packaged. I'm inspired by the natural world, the historical past, antique maps and old photographs.
My Etsy URL: naturalhistorie.etsy.com
My blog URL: afieldjournal.blogspot.com

Support Your Local Farmers Market

2007-10-16T13:36:00.000-04:00

Scout out the local farmers market and get good produce and locally made goods.

Paper Crafts and SoCalledMommy

2007-10-15T11:33:00.000-04:00

Have you ever gotten tired of the racks of greeting cards at the commercial kiosks in chain stores like Target? Try supporting paper crafters who can design works for you.

Read on to see what Stephanie had to say:

When did you know that you were cut out to be artistic?
I'm pretty sure it goes back to a couple of things when I was much
younger. Perhaps it was when I was decorating place cards for all my
friends coming to my 12Th birthday party. Or maybe when I snuck a
cross-stitch project out of my backpack during a movie in 9Th grade
biology. But I love being able to make something with my hands, and
with the scrap booking and albums that I do, my cute kids end up in the
final product too.

How did it make you feel when someone bought something that you made?
I was glad that my husband was at work the afternoon that I made my
first sale, because I seriously did a little dance at the computer. It
was so great to know that someone else also liked something I had made.
One of the hard things about being and artist or crafter, is that you
want so much to find your own unique style, something that's really
you. Yet at the same time, you love to get that validation through
someone else that what you do appeals to them also.

What keeps you inspired?
I've got to do something to start chipping away at my mountains of
scrap booking supplies I have! But really, it's my way to unwind and
spend some time by myself. I love looking for new ideas and
techniques,
and then seeing how I can make them blend in with my style I already
have.
socalledmommy

Artist Statement

2007-10-13T22:37:00.001-04:00

I wrote this statement a few years ago:

About the Artist

I define my work as a series of small paintings, drawings and prints that have graphic design devices such as lines and fields of color paired with an image. My content ranges from botanicals to architectural, figurative and lifestyle subject matter. My materials are canvas, acrylic or oil paints and ink. I have done silk screened pieces that are in the same kind of series. I'm currently working a series of drawings. My inspiration comes from advertising in magazine and newspapers. Color trends are a part of my body of work. Artists and designers that have influenced my process or way of thinking are people such as: Raymond Loewy, Milton Glaser, Elsa Schiaperelli, Dale Chihuly and Tim Burton. The competitive and economically thriving nature of the East Coast near Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE has played a large part in feeding my creativity as well us growing up with a creative family. I now live in Cleveland, OH.

projectfelt

2007-10-13T19:17:00.000-04:00

I interviewed projectfelt and discovered a great store while I was at it. Felt is fun!
I like the storefront on this shop.

This is what projectfelt had to say:

When did you know that you were cut out to be artistic?

I knew from the time I could understand what artistic meant. I was constantly re arranging my bedroom, buying $12 Vogue Couture magazines at the age of 10. Cutting our clippings of room designs out of magazines and keeping them in a shoe box for later in life. one proud thing I remember from middle school was each month we had an artist of the month for the whole school. And each month, I was chosen. Kids got angry and thought I was a suck up but I truly felt alone as I was the only artistic person in my class. In High School I worked hard to graduate early so I could study fashion design with my art teacher. She helped me perfect my drawing skills while my Home EC. teacher taught me how to sew. I planned on attending college in Miami Florida but a series of events prevented me from going. That's when I got heavy into the craft/indie world. I realized that I was talented on my own and didn't need a teacher or college education to tell me that. I started to experiment with jewelry making, clay sculpting, paper crafts, crochet etc. till I stumbled upon my true passion, felting. And that's when I really realized that this is what I wanted to do the rest of my life. My goal is to create enough revenue from Etsy and other outside venues to quite my 9-5 and be a crafty momma till the end of time.

How did it make you feel when someone bought something that you made?

I was honestly shocked. I could not believe that someone would actually spend their hard earned cash on my handmade stuff! I was hooked from day one when I discovered Etsy. It was hard in the beginning when sales would come and go and you always wonder during those slow months when sales are slow, what you are doing wrong. The key is consistently. Without that, you have no sales.

What keeps you inspired?

Color inspires me. I'm always looking at magazines to see what the new "in" color combo is. I also like to gather free paint samples from home depot and bring them home so I can play around and create my own color palettes. My shop is based on color. My sections are separated into all the color pallets I currently have listed. I'm always on the prowl for more ideas!

My shop is http://projectfelt.etsy.com
Blog http://projectfelt.blogspot.com

Napa Style

2007-10-11T09:04:00.000-04:00

Napa Style happens to be a catalog that I get in the mail sometimes. The catalog does a good job of highlighting recipes. Check it out online and enjoy the autum!

Thom Glick Illustrates

2007-10-09T07:52:00.000-04:00

Thom Glick has an impressive illustration portfolio. You may have seen his work in print. He's being represented by Langley Creative.
thomglick.com
thomglick.blogspot.com

Rep: Langley Creative
T. 312.782.0244
w. langleycreative.com
e. s.langley@langleycreative.com
e. j.bosco@langleycreative.com

Glass Artist Jenn Szalkowski

2007-10-08T08:07:00.000-04:00

I asked Jenn Szalkowski questions about her creative self. This is what she had to say:
When did you first know that you were going to do something in your life artistic?

I can trace my artistic roots back to my early childhood spending time in my Mom's ceramic studio in the basement of our house. I remember feeling artistically inclined to the materials and the ability to create a beautiful object with my own two hands.
I first knew that I was headed for a life traveling the artistic path during my college career at Kent State University. The 'glass bug' first bit me when I took a Beginning Glass class as part the art program requirements. I fell instantly in love with the medium....the glowing heat, the raw power and the ability to shape a molten material...and we lived happily ever after...

What are your goals?

My ultimate goal is to create a life where I support myself by doing what I love: creating glass art, while being able to share my talent with others. I plan on opening my own glass studio where I can create my own work while offering instruction and advice for other artists. My studio will house an art gallery for exhibiting my own work and the work of talented, local & regional artists. I want to foster an environment of creativity and help contribute to the thriving art culture in Cleveland.

What makes you get up in the morning?

Well I'm more of a night-owl so not much makes me get up in the morning :) ...but what drives me to live every day to the fullest is creating beauty through my art work and the happiness that it brings to so many people, including myself. Everytime I open the kiln, I am amazed and delighted with the beautiful glass treasures that lie inside. Art is why I wake up in the morning, the wonder of creating glass art inspires me to sieze the day, everyday. Carpe Diem!

You can contact Jenn by the links below.
http://firetamerglass.etsy.com
http://firetamerglassworks.blogspot.com

Mail Order Cup Cakes

2007-10-06T19:17:00.000-04:00

Etsy isn't just for crafts and artistic items. Buy baked goods! Mail order cupcakes.
Fat Daddy Loves You Bake Shop.

Style and Shopping

2007-10-06T10:10:00.000-04:00

Sundance isn't only about the Film Festival that comes along every year. It is also about rustic style. Check out these western chic pieces. Rustic elegance is the way to go.

Featured Artist This Week

2007-10-05T10:34:00.000-04:00

Check out the work of Robert Patricy. He is based in the Columbus metro area. Make sure to check out his comprehensive bio and his stunning pieces. He has a great resume. Contact him directly. http://robertpatricy.com

The Storque

2007-10-03T12:24:00.000-04:00

I will be one of the many sellers showcased on The Storque website on October 5, 2007.

Best Transportation System in North America

2007-10-02T19:49:00.000-04:00

Greater Cleveland has the best transportation system in North America according to the news on October 1, 2007. Thanks RTA.

Blogs of Note

2007-10-02T12:33:00.000-04:00

http://illustrationfridaynight.blogspot.com

http://desiretoinspire.blogspot.com

Snapshots From the Summer

2007-10-01T19:53:00.000-04:00

It is now October and I can not believe summer is over! I took some pictures of my garden over the summer just to remind myself of warm summer days.
http://katherinerobbins.imagekind.com

Recipe of the week

2007-10-01T09:32:00.000-04:00

Bleu Cheesy Broccoli Potato Soup

1 large onion, diced
1 leek, cut into thin rings
3 large colves garlic, minced
5 tbsp butter or olive oil
2 to 3 medium potatoes, grated
1 carrot grated
1 green pepper, seeded and diced
1 large head broccoli, chopped
4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
5 ounces blue cheese, crumbled (milder cheeses can be substituted)
1 cup half-and-half or cream
1 cup milk (all dairy can be replaced with soy milk)
1/3 cup dry sherry
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, minced

In a large pot, saute'onion, leek and garlic in butter or oil until soft, about five minutes. Add potato, carrot, green pepper and broccoli. Saute' 2 to 3 minutes, then add stock. Simmer until all ingredients are soft. Pur'ee soup in a food processor or blender. Heat puree over medium heat, stiring cheese, cream and milk. Simmer a couple of minutes, then add sherry. Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley. Serves 6.

Please note: this is from Mother Earth News Oct/Nov 2007

Kingwood Center

2007-09-30T21:02:00.000-04:00

For great inspiration go to Kingwood Center ( http://kingwoodcenter.org ) or other botanical places. It is free and open to the public.

Financial Knowledge

2007-09-28T09:23:00.000-04:00

I would like to debunk the myth that creative types and fine artists are somehow idiots when it comes to finances and business. My suggestion for anyone starting a business or wanting to have some kind of creative endeavor, is arm yourself with as much knowledge about the economy and where local business and national businesses are thriving. Pay close attention to the stock market and live below your means. The living below your means part is what many people have a problem with. Living below your means helps you to be able to take entrepreneurial risks. Without risk there is no success. Sometimes trial and error is the best way to become successful.

Car Free Cleveland

2007-09-28T08:52:00.000-04:00

Good morning to everyone. I have had my first cup of coffee this morning. To spread a little of my morning cheer, I want everyone to know about Eco city Cleveland and a car free life style. Touting this as an option for folks wanting to move here from large population densities might be the way to go. Make sure to check this out.

Garden Noir in Cleveland

2007-09-27T19:40:00.000-04:00

Stay tuned for Spaces Annual Benefit & Silent Auction. Saturday November 3, 2007.
Garden Noir: Where the Wild Things Bloom
I will probably submit something. I'm designing different compositions at this point.

Cleveland is excellent for artistic activity!

Red an Orchestra

2007-09-22T13:53:00.000-04:00

I had a great time seeing Red an Orchestra at Spaces Gallery on Thursday evening. Spaces an artist run galleryin Cleveland . http://spacesgallery.org/

To see http://redanorchestra.org/

To see my latest creations go to http://stuffbuykwr.etsy.com/

Art that has sold

2007-08-30T12:51:00.000-04:00

The lemon and the sunflower have both been sold within that last month. I like to work with oils on canvas paper. Canvas paper can be shipped in a poster tube.