Modern Moroccan Chairs from Anthropolgie

I am in love with these chairs, from Anthropologie,  http://www.anthropologie.com/ ,its like crawling into a big ball of yarn. I'm really wishing that I could afford one of these, what a perfect addition to my studio, but for now I will just have dream and add it to my wish list. Which one is your favorite?

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Blind Painter in Turkey

I decided that I wanted to do a one day sculpture activity with my students, where they would have to recreate an object only from touch. I was hoping that if they were not able to see the object, this would help them to pay more attention to their senses and pick up more on the details of the piece, instead of creating more of a "symbol" of what they know that the object should look like. To give them some inspiration I found this Discovery video about a man that was born with no eyes, that creates amazing paintings. My mind is still trying to understand how he does this.

Jillian Moore

Today's one of my favorite days, my American Craft Magazine came in the mail! I love this magazine and always find inspiration. They featured an artist named Jillian Moore, and I am intrigued by her work. They are so interesting.

Visit her website: http://www.jillianmoore.net/

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Artist Statement:

Nomen Dubium —"doubtful name"




Our natural tendency to seek out patterns results in a sensitivity to the congruities in biological forms. Deliberate exploitation of these phenomena results in objects that are both ambiguous and evocative. Some are organs removed from the body in which they once belonged, revealing structures with unknown functions. Others are complete specimens tagged with labels. Signs of dissection as well as taxonomy provide evidence of attempts to demystify these new organisms. However, this approach leaves many unanswered questions and highlights the inherent ethical compromise in these methods of understanding.



I choose materials and techniques that are transformative, resulting in objects that do not readily reveal the processes of their making. Copper may be hidden under layers of paint, the only exposed metal oxidized. The electroforming process allows for wax forms to be coated in copper leaving a hollow shell with textural encrustations--evidence of the accretive nature of the process of building copper on a molecular level. The resin pieces are light in weight, built on a core of carved foam that is strengthened by successive layers of an opaque, water-based composite resin. The clear epoxy resin is then layered with paint to create a depth of surface typically expected of glass work. The slick gloss of the resin further mimics biology

Smithsonian Crocheted Coral Reef

I've been wanting to go to DC to see the crochted coral reef that they have on display at the Smithsonian. The exhibit is free, as all musuems in DC are free, and fairly small, but was fun to see. The exhibit was created by a large group of crocheters, that created fasinationg and creative coral reefs. One of the reefs was created from all recycyeld materials, they crocthed with plastic bags. I think that my favorite pieces were the really declicate pieces and the ones hanging from the ceiling. There were also some wonderful reefs created from crocheted with beads. Its worth checking out.

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Washington DC Zoo

On Saturday my husband, brother, and sister-in-law spent the day in DC, it was a little bit cold out, but lots of fun things to see. We visisted the zoo to see the 7 baby lions that they have. They were adorable, and so playful, I think that I could have watched them all day. If you get a chance I would recommend going to see them. They are 6-7 months old, and the zoo normally has them out between 11 and 2.

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Robert Capuuci and Fashion

Yesterday I had the privledge of taking 70 high school students to the Philadelphia Musuem of Art to see the Chagall exhibit. I also got a little sneak peak of the fashion exhibit displaying the amazing work by Robert Capucci, the show is open until June 5th and I'm hoping to make my way back. His pieces are simply stunning. Amazing color and amazing structure, now I just need to make some scarves to go with them. Talk about inspirational, I'm inspired.... are you?

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Scarf Pins by Kerri White

Check out these great scarf pins created by jewelry artist Kerri White. Here's a little bit about Kerri: My life long love affair with arts and crafts began as a young girl when my grandmother taught me how to crochet. Since then, I'm happiest when my hands are creating something. My favorite is beading, but I also enjoy sewing, cooking and crocheting. My father was in the military so I grew up all over the world. I think this gives me a broader perspective and appreciation of things around me. Being exposed to several different cultures gave me a wide range of interests.



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To visist her shop click here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/BeadworksbyKerri?ref=pr_shop_more

Rice Field in China

I came across these photos of rice fields in China and just fell in love with the colors and patterns. Hmmmm, how would I weave these?
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Spring Scarves: Perfect Gifts for Mother's Day

I'm still working on creating more scarves for my Spring Line and I'm having so much fun. I"m also still working on using up the yarn that I have in the studio before going and purchasing more. This has been a really good way of stretching myself, and making me think about how I can create with what have instead of running out and buying more.

These scarves are great gifts for anyone, but would be perfect for Mother's Day. My most recent piece. The silver one. I decided to braid 4 yds of cream yarn and then interweave it throughout the piece. I found this interesting, as it added some new texture and another touch of color to the scarf. What do you think?

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Studio Clean Out

Projects: 24
Balls of yarn: 28
Cones of Yarn: 17

Spools if thread: 5
Beads: 10

Summer Art Classes, Camps, and Workshops

I know it's not quiet summer yet, but it's not too early to start thinking about it. Fellow art teacher and artist Laurie Kitzmiller and I are offering a wide range of summer classes. Stop by the Sunflower Studio website to check out the offerings and to register. http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Classes_and_schedules.html

Classes and Workshops

Art and Nature Camp for Kids
Pet Portraits
Watercolor Painting
Meditative Collage
Portfolio Reviews
Painting Camp for Adults
Intro to Crochet
Wire Wrapped Cabachon workshop
Bead Crochet Necklace workshop
Coil Bracelet workshop


Art and Nature Camp for Kids

Join me for five consecutive mornings of fun and creative exploration. We will explore several art mediums to include but not limited to drawing, painting, weaving, printmaking and sculpture. Art projects will be nature inspired. I’ll provide the supplies and direction...your child can bring their creativity and desire for self expression! This class is open to all children in grades 3 - 6.

June 13th - 17th.
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Instructor: Laurie Kitzmiller
$150.00 per child.




Pet Portraits..It’s easier than you think!

Bring a photo of your favorite pet or animal and let me show you how easy it is to capture a likeness. We will work with charcoal and or pastels. I will supply everything you need to do a successful animal portrait. No art experience is required or expected. this class is open to anyone 16 and up.

3 Thursday evenings

June 16th - 30th

7:00 - 8:30 PM

Instructor: Laurie Kitzmiller
$50.00



Watercolor Painting


This class is for anyone who has ever wanted to try their hand at painting. I will show you some very basic techniques to get you up and painting your very first class! No art experience is required or expected. All supplies will be provided so you only need to bring your desire to try!


Monday evenings
June 13th - 27t
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: laurie Kitzmiller
$50.00


And now for something completely different........

Meditative Collage

Join me for an evening of total relaxation and artistic exploration through the medium of collage. Together we will express our thoughts and feelings through the collage process to create a beautiful piece of art. You will be amazed at what your inner artist can create. No artistic experience is required or expected. You will need to bring a picture or pictures of things that make you happy. Small personal photos or trinkets work best. this class is offered two separate evenings. Join me for one or both! come find your inner artist and your happy place!


Wednesdays June 22 and /or June 29th
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: Laurie Kitzmiller
$25.00 per session




Attention High School Students

Art portfolio reviews and critiques will be held at the Sunflower Art Studio on tuesday evening June 28th. to assist you with your art portfolio process. Two experienced high school art teachers will help you put your best foot forward when it comes to the art school/college application process. Bring your work and we will help you put it all together. Digital portfolios will be discussed at length.

Tuesday June 28th

7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructors: Laurie Kitzmiller and Amber Kane
$15.00

Private reviews and critiques by appointment call: 245-9817


Painting Camp for Adults

This camp is for anyone who want to try their hand at outdoor acrylic or watercolor painting. Even if you have painted before, join us for this week long camp and you will be amazed at how quickly you will be wielding a brush and creating beautiful art1 If you have some painting experience come along and learn some new techniques or hone your skills with “like minded” individuals. We will meet at the studio for your first class and then every other morning we will meet at the Children’s Lake in Boiling Springs (weather permitting). A supply list will be available upon registration. An easel is great but not required. (2 one week sessions available)

Week of July 18th - 22nd OR

Week of July 25th. - 29th.

10:00 - 11:30 AM

Instructors: Laurie Kitzmiller and William Soisson

$150.00 per week






Intro to Crochet

This class is for any adults 18 years and older. In this class you will learn basic crocheting techniques, and create your own scarf or cowl by the end of the class. You do not need to have any experience to take this class. come with your crocheting questions, and i will help guide you through the process. Crocheting is a wonderful relaxing activity and once you know the basics, the possibilities are endless. A supply list will be sent to you upon registration.

Tuesdays and Thursday evenings

6/7 6/9 6/14 6/21

7:00 - 8:30 PM

Instructor: Amber Kane

$50.00



Wire Wrapped Cabochon Workshop


This workshop is for any adults 18 years or older. You will learn basic wire wrapping techniques and leave the class with a complete wire wrapped pendant. A supply list will be made available.


Wednesday Evening, June 15th.

7:00 - 8:30 PM

Instructor: Amber Kane

$15.00



Bead Crochet Necklace Workshop

This workshop is for any adults 18 years and older. You will learn how to create an elegant necklace through the use of crocheting thin wire and beads. Once you learn the technique the possibilities are endless! Crocheters and non-crocheter are welcome. a supply list will be available.

Thursday Evening, July 7th

7:00 - 8:30 PM

Instructor: Amber Kane

$20.00



Coil Bracelet Workshop

this workshop is for adults 18 years and older. Come and learn some basic wire twisting techniques and make a unique bracelet. A supply list will be available.



Thursday Evening, August 11th.

7:00 - 8:00 PM

Instructor: Amber Kane

$20.00

Spring Scarves by Fabricatedends

I've been really busy in my studio the last few days and am excited to share what I've been working on. I decided to create a line of scarves that are more light weight for the spring. If you're like me, no matter what the weather its fun to wear a scarf to add a little color and flair to an outfit. My first braided scarf happened after I greatly miscalculated when creating a piece for my mom for Christmas. At the time I wasn't very interested in the design, but then it hit me, and I got really excited. I love when mistakes turn into something wonderful. Most of the scarf designs that I end up loving began as a way to fix a mistake. I try really hard not to waste any yarn, and not to abandon a piece, which forces me to problem solve.

Let me know what you think of this design. These are perfect gifts for Mother's Day, don't forget May 8th. My mom has already been dropping hints about the ones that she wants. 

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More colors coming!

Studio Clean Out

Projects: 22

Balls of yarn: 28

Cones of Yarn: 15

Spools if thread: 5

Beads: 10

Lancaster Art Work

I just found out that I was juried into the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsman, Fine Craft shows, as an emerging artist. I will be selling my work at two of their shows. The first show is right around the corner, and is May 7th and 8th. I will be a part of Lancaster Art Walk.

Lancaster's annual mini-show, Craft Market, features the work of 40 of the Guild’s finest craft makers in pottery, woodturning, leather, traditional German folk art, jewelry and more. This fun outdoor event is outdoors on May 7 & 8, at the corner of Prince & Walnut Sts during Lancaster ArtWalk, http://lancasterartwalk.org/

Stop by to see lots of great artist, and get your last minute Mother's day Shopping Finished. Many scarves from my new Spring Collection ( currently in progress) will be featured. These scarves are stylish and affordable, and make great gifts.

Here's a Sneak Peak. Photobucket