Artfest Ft. Myers 2010

Just got a notice about Artfest Ft. Myers 2010 in the mail-

I checked out the website and application on line, and I have to say that this is probably one of the best put together shows I have seen in a while. They seem to really be interested in the comfort and success of the participating artists, which is often not the case with many shows. It is in Florida, so I’m not sure how that is going to work for us with a then 10 month old, but I’m going to apply anyway because it looks to good to pass up.

The application deadline is Sept. 16, and I encourage you to check it out if you are doing the show circuit. If you live in the area, maybe we’ll see you in February!

-M

The Big Crafty

So as if I haven’t whined and complained enough about having so much to do before Bele Chere, my wife and I decided we would just add more to our plate by deciding to do The Big Crafty this weekend. It’s in Asheville as well (Oh Joy! 2 trips in 2 weeks, in a car, across the state, with a 3 month old!); I suppose we’re gluttons for punishment. Truthfully though, there is nothing I’d rather be doing than making art full-time while spending my days with my wife and son.

Anyway, if you are in the area this weekend, it’s a great show so maybe we’ll see you there!

-M

My Kingdom for a Canvas

Well actually, I’m stretching a large canvas for a friend as we speak, but more about that later. In the meantime, I’m beginning to think that the panels in my studio are multiplying on their own.

what I’m wondering is- why can’t all the art that goes on them be already finished as well? I figure I have about 16 days until I have to begin packing for Bele Chere, and I’ve come to the realization that with 350,000 people expected to attend, there is probably no way to make enough art.

Luckily I don’t get to stressed about these things, especially not now that Jeremia is here…

I mean seriously, who could be stressed when you have this cute mug to look at all day long-

and I am making progress- I just hope that I’m able to get to all the jewelry pieces I want to do.

If not I suppose I’ll survive, there is always the next show.

-M

Mud Slinging

Literally. Went to the NC mountains this past weekend to visit with family, and ended up down at the river with my niece and nephew. We couldn’t go swimming because they didn’t have their bathing suits, but it’s not like that kept them from having fun.

The river is so nice this time of year even if the water is still really cold.

On the way home, I found a nice antique mall with a few necessities I thought I should pick up.

-a great ambrotype from the late 1850’s

-a nice antique bone brooch (this one will probably end up in my Etsy shop)

-a great old rouge to be transformed into a neckpiece

-and a nice petite tin which will be transformed as well

All in all, it was a great weekend, but now its back to it, Bele Chere is coming up in a little more than 3 weeks!

-M

Randomness

This post is just what it sounds like- complete randomness. Well, I suppose there must be some order as I chose all of these random things to share at the same time, which I guess would make them not so random.

First a cloud- yes, it's really just a cloud- I shot it the other day looking out my studio window. Something about the way it was catching the light, out there without any of its little cloud friends, just doing its thing. I suppose I relate.

This is a shot of my booth that the Handmade Market in May; I meant to share this the other day and completely forgot about it. It was a good show and is a lot of fun to do in general, especially the November holiday show.

I'm in the middle of preparing inventory for Bele Chere, and have started on another new piece of jewelry. Here is an early look at some of the basic parts. I'll try to do a full update of it soon.

And speaking of jewelry, Virtue Adrift is now up in my Etsy Shop if you'd like to stop by.

Be back soon.

-M

Upcoming Shows

So, I finally have information on a partial list of the Festival/Shows I will be doing this year-these are the spring shows. If you happen to be local to any of these, I'd love to meet you!

Art Walk- Durham, NC April 18, 19 2009

A Great 2-day event where you can meet about 200 different artists and craftspeople on a wonderful walking studio tour.

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The Handmade Market- Raleigh, NC May 3, 2009

A dynamite show which features around 50 local artists and designers showing the best in regional art, jewelry, clothing and handmade accessories.

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Artsplosure- Raleigh, NC May 16, 17 2009

A regional arts festival that attracts about 100,000 people annually. Features around 200 regional and national artists and craftspeople. An excellent show.

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There are about 10 more shows I am applying to for the Summer and Fall including shows in Philadelphia, Chicago, Richmond, VA, as well as more here in North Carolina. I keep you updated on the details as I have them.

-M