I took an Anticlastic Raising workshop a few weeks ago. This is a good thing. I was having flashbacks to making angels throughout the 90’s. It was a good feeling to be significantly shaping metal once again. There is something very empowering to taking a flat sheet of metal and, with the use of a tool or two, ending up with a functional piece of jewelry. We made bangles. We made neck pieces. We made bracelets. Mostly we learned tips and shared camaraderie with fellow jewelers. Our instructor was Kevin O’Dwyer, from Ireland. Time well spent. Thanks Kevin!
Category: Thoughts and Shows
35th Annual Holiday Studio Sale – Dec. 14, 2013
35th Annual Holiday
Studio Sale & Open House
December 14th, 2013; Noon – 6:00 pm
Semi-Automatic Glass Studio
Mississippi Mud Works
2600 31st Avenue S, Minneapolis, 55406
612-332-5842
FEATURED ARTISTS
Andrew Shea – Glass
Susan Warner – Clay
Jenny Levernier – Jewelry
Ken Dumdie – Leather
Eric Sommers – Glass
Rose Heim – Soaps, Lotions, Hats
Chuck & Renee Grisham – Fused Glass
Come help celebrate another year!
New jewelry to see . . .
Bring a friend – Everyone welcome!
Love to see you here! –Jenny L
Stop Procrastinating!
October 28, 2013
Tackle those things on your list that you have been putting off. I have been working in my studio today. I still haven’t unpacked all the boxes marked ‘studio’ from my move this past June. It is amazing how much more familiar and at home you feel when you have your ‘things’ around you! I have missed some of these familiar friends.
We cannot reach our full potential when we ignore what must be done. Having my tools around me is crucial. I spend more time looking for items I can’t figure out which box they are in, than I do actually making jewelry. So today I’ve unpacked my studio books, the rest of my tools, and hung up my bottle opener. That’s kinda funny considering how many bottles these days are screw caps. It has it’s spot. On a nail at the top of the door frame. It’s familiar. It’s home.
Have a Weekly Art Date with Yourself
October 13, 2013
The Sogn Valley Show was really nice. Part of the success of that particular show is the complete package. The setting, the weather, the other exhibitors; as well as the show committee and how they treat us, and the guests who drive to enjoy the flavor of a fall event.
Have a weekly date with yourself. Expand your world and stay up-to-date on what is going on around you. Okay, I can do that.
Yesterday I drove down to the Red Wing Art Fair with a friend. As a guest. What a treat! We walked the show, talked to a few artists and patrons, made a few purchases. Then, wandered the town. I’ve never spent time in Red Wing just shopping. It’s always been business related. We found some good sales at the Annual Red Wing Shoes Warehouse Sale, headed to the Pottery Place to spend a few hours checking out antiques, and ended up at the Red Wing Brewery enjoying a taste of the local community with beer and pizza. What a pleasant day!
Getting more balance and creativity into life seems to have its’ rewards.
Straddling the Fence
October 2, 2013
So the economy tanks a bit and I start thinking, what else can I do? Last week I took a workshop on resume building, skill identification, and interviewing. When you think about almost 30 years of self-employment, you acquire a few skills along the way. What I hadn’t been able to figure out was the words. Funny, I use words all the time. I knew I should be able to apply for a number of jobs, but couldn’t narrow down a field to apply in. After this workshop, I can stand a little taller with confidence. I am very employable. I also reaffirmed what an honor it is to be self-employed as an artist. That’s a skill no one can take from you.
Yesterday my Aunt Jean turned 95 years old, she lives by herself and still drives. What a good example. Today I am in my studio soldering, hoping to make it through the art fair weekend. I’m working on 6 pendants that will be ready for the show. Plus what I make tomorrow. Now, if I can find enough warm clothing for the weather they are predicting, it will be a stellar weekend!
Sogn Valley – October 5 & 6, 2013
October 5 & 6, 2013
Come see my work! This is a fabulous show that combines quality art along with local growers. (pumpkins, honey, baked goods, clay, glass, fiber, photography, etc.) Dress warmly, we’ll be there all day, both days!
Hours: Saturday 10-5:00; Sunday 10-4:00
Address: 35200 County 24 Boulevard, Cannon Falls, MN 55009
More information: www.sognvalleycraftfair.com
Facebook: Sogn Valley Craft Fair
Phone: 507-263-4007