Venus d'Pyro

Further Explorations in Image Transfers

2012-01-25T18:19:00.000-08:00

I have spent the last two days experimenting with gel handsanitizer for my inkjet image transfers. For me, I have concluded that:

Printing my original on vellum typewriter paper works much better that on wax paper or sheet protectors.
140 lb. watercolor paper works very well and takes abuse
It is best to coat the paper with sanitizer on both sides before printing. This allows the sanitizer to absorb.
Adding one more coat to the receiver side of the paper, letting it dry "just a bit," and then laying the fresh print on the paper, then rubbing vigorously with a wooden spatula, gives great results.
The transfer is okay for a transfer, but that's just what it is...a transfer.
Hmmmmmmmmmm
Mistakes lead to great results. I dropped one of my transfers in a pan of water and forgot about it. The result? A blurry, vague, soft image somewhere between a photograph and a dream. Some beg for "drawing into," others stand on their own.
Letting the transfers sit until almost dry, blasting with warm water, and then letting sit on an absorbant towel while the inks run, gives me a result I can work with.

Rainy Day Works

2012-01-22T17:06:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to get a handle on inkjet wax paper transfers. Figuring out which settings, which receiver papers, which waxed surfaces....ugghh. BUT, I love the hands-on process.

Up next: Purell Transfers.

I find that I am currently obsessed with Highway 395. It must be because I have been driving it quite a bit, lately.

High desert, Incredibly beautiful.

The bug is not part of the artwork...yet.

Some Artists Are Neat and Clean

2012-01-21T18:59:00.000-08:00

I AM NOT ONE OF THEM!
When you see me in my torn jeans and T-shirts, there's a REASON. I can't even "run into my studio for just a minute" without getting stuff on my clothes.

Okay...happen to love torn jeans and T-shirts.

Jewelry Artst Tanel Veenre

2012-01-19T09:44:00.000-08:00

Via: Wearable Art Blog

"I'm excited to offer you the third and last post in a mini-series on werable artists from Eastern Europe by introducing you to Tanel Veenre from Estonia, whose work has been shown in galleries around the world.
Tanel has been a freelance jewelry artist and fashion photographer since 1994. Currently, he is the design critic for “Eesti Päevaleht”, a major daily Estonian newspaper, and he teaches at the Estonian Academy of Arts.
I was immediately hooked by the range of his work and the way he transforms common materials -- including fishing floats -- into fashionable pieces that just draw you in. Also, as you'll see in his comments and in the examples of his most recent work, he's a true 'artist' who follows his heart."

HIGH DESERT DRIVING

2012-01-18T11:31:00.000-08:00

I love high desert driving. Bright light on cold day. Light dusting of snow. Really cheap phone camera giving watercolor effect.
I want a "Google Camera" on my car.

New Jackets from Re-Purposed Cotton

2012-01-01T11:49:00.000-08:00

Working with the re-purposed cotton, again! Printing on sheets and turning them into wearable art. Adding the floral "Rosettes" really helps the look. I made this one out of two printings that, at first, I didn't "see." I cut one of the printings without paying attention to front and back, leaving me with four front cuttings and nothing for the back. I then remembered a printing that I hadn't been able to realize as a garment and usde that for the trim and the back. The result is so much more interesting. "Mistakes" often lead to the best work.

Designs by Andrea Williams from the 2011 RISD Alumni Holiday Sale

2011-12-22T07:59:00.000-08:00

From The Wearable Art Blog

Andrea Williams of Bound Earth Jewelry Design is a metalsmith specializing in beach stone jewelry. She's someone who is truely 'bound' to nature, living in Maine and thriving on the beauty of the Maine Coast.

Andrea says she "lives in the woods. I stack rocks for fun. I collect seedpods. I spend summer days gardening. I find beauty in improbable places." Her appreciation for nature and all things natural comes across in each of these inventive pieces of wearable art.
Even though it's now officially winter, it's still a good time to think about beach stone jewelry to keep the spirit of summer alive. Or, even better, simply get someone special a unique gift for the holiday season. To see more, go to Bound Earth.

This jewelry really rocks! (Sorry, couldn't help myself.)

INFINITY SCARVES

2011-12-20T19:27:00.000-08:00

I've been enjoying "down time" (not printing) sewing and beading these one-of-a-kind silk infinity scarves.

Double Snake print on textured silk with burgundy glass beads
8" wide by 50" around.

Lakshmi print on silk chiffon with multi-colored glass beads.
15" wide by 50" around.

Pink Retro Floral on silk chiffon with pink glass beads
12" wide by 56" around

Soft Turquoise Jellyfish print on silk with green glass beads
16" wide by 41" around

BOOOOOOOM! Remake Finalists

2011-12-19T18:45:00.000-08:00

BOOOOOOOM is a great blog created by Vancouver artist Jeff Hamada in hopes of fostering a community of people excited to go out and be creative!

Boooooom's Remake project is finally coming to a close! Click here if you haven’t already seen all of the submissions.!

“Grande Odalisque” remake by Craig White

Embroidered Portraits by Cayce Zavaglia

2011-12-17T11:28:00.000-08:00

American-born painter Cayce Zavaglia paints and hand sews these photo-realistic portraits, which are made with crewel wool and acrylic paint on linen. The textural images are very intricate and mesmorising. She turned away from using oil paints while pregnant with her daughter, to avoid harmful substances like turpentine and varnish. Zavaglia dds: “I kept thinking back to a crewel embroidery piece that I had made as a child and wondered if it would be possible to sew a portrait…or perhaps use the material in a more modern way.”
Images by Cayca Zavaglia

article courtesy COVER via THE TEXTILE BLOG

THE PEOPLE'S PRINT

2011-12-12T10:56:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun blog to follow if you're interested in collaborative textiles, technology, currents, etc.
THE PEOPLE'S PRINT pioneers new concepts for textile design combining traditional and digital technologies, open source, participatory and co-design, aiming to create a community of like minded people with a passion for designing their own textiles.

Founded in 2011 by Dr Emma Neuberg and Melanie Bowles

I LOVE THIS BLOG!!!!!!!!!!

2011-11-28T11:23:00.001-08:00

What took me so long to find The Jealous Curator?
See for yourself.
What more can I say?
I'm so jealous.

WIDOW 2009 by Susie MacMurray - Astounding!

2011-11-21T11:08:00.001-08:00

SUSIE MACMURRAY

Susie MacMurray's work encompasses drawing, sculpture and architectural installations. A former classical musician, she retrained as an artist, graduating with an MA in Fine Art in 2001. She now has an international exhibition profile and shows regularly in the USA and Europe as well as the UK.

Widow 2009
black nappa leather, 43 kg adamantine dressmakers pins, tailors dummy
collection of Manchester Art Gallery

Susie MacMurray is represented by Agnew's Gallery.
www.agnewsgallery.com

BEHIND THE GATE Artisan Gift Show

2011-11-20T16:56:00.001-08:00

1127 Spruce Ave
Chico, Ca

Fridays, Dec. 2 & 9: Noon to eight
Saturdays, Dec. 3 and 10: Ten to seven

Amazing artisan-made gifts for the home and your soul

Buy local - Buy Art

Rip 'n Shred

2011-11-14T18:20:00.001-08:00

There's nothing more cathartic (studio wise) than tearing up old work. Some drawings were from college!
I was feeling bogged down, and this afternoon of Rip 'n Shred really released me. I'll probably recycle these into handmade paper.

2012 Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Artist-in-Residence Program

2011-11-14T08:00:00.001-08:00

Call to Plein Air Artists for the 2012 Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Artist-in-Residence Program

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area’s Artist-in-Residence Program is seeking submissions from professional plein air artists to apply for the park’s 2012 residencies. Selected artists will have the opportunity to spend up to four weeks in an artists’ cabin in Whiskeytown to produce new works. Whiskeytown is one of fewer than thirty Artist-in-Residence programs in the national park system.

Jean Stern, Executive Director of The Irvine Museum, will juror this year’s submissions. Stern is a recognized authority on California Impressionism and has extensive experience in the field as an author, curator, lecturer, and educator. The deadline for entry is February 29, 2012. In exchange for their stay, artists selected for residencies will be asked to conduct at least one program for the public, and to donate a piece of art reflective of their time at Whiskeytown.

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is located approximately 3½ hours north of the San Francisco Bay Area and 2 hours north of Sacramento. Whiskeytown is situated just seven miles west of Redding, California. The park features 39,000 acres of forests and a beautiful 3,200-acre lake nestled among the hills and valleys of California's Klamath Mountains. The cabin is a great base from which to explore the park by boat, car, or on foot.

Plein Air Artists are asked to submit the following:

1. Artist resume and exhibition record.

2. Statement of intent for residency, not to exceed one page in length, to include: Relevance of work to nature & specific focus of project to be completed during residency.

3. Sample of artistic works: 5-8 recent images on CD.

4. Indication of preferred residency dates.

Please mail all submissions to:

Whiskeytown Artist-in-Residence Coordinator

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

P.O. Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA 96095

For more information and application details, please contact Sheila Edridge via email at whiskeytown.art@gmail.com For more information on Whiskeytown, please contact the Visitor Center by calling (530) 246-1225 daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/whis

A Great Blog for Inkjet Explorers

2011-11-09T09:48:00.000-08:00

My passions include creating digital design on my Macintosh computers (big time Mac junkie); quiltmaking and working with a variety of media such as pigment inks, paints, dyes, fabric, papers, and threads; and photography, using my cameras (Nikon girl) and printers (Epson junkie).

FABRIC DESIGNS

2011-11-06T19:01:00.000-08:00

Quiet day recuperating from a week with twin infants (1 month.) Gave me plenty of time to work on slidehows of our fabric designs. http://www.venusdpyro.com/Fabric_Patterns.html

BLOWIN' IN THE WIND

2011-10-24T15:33:00.000-07:00

I love the look of new fabrics hanging on the lie. These are newly printed silks for lightweight cover-ups. Lots of hand sewing ahead.

Just a sample. The silk jacket with attached scarf is individually printed silk chiffon, hand sewn. The asstached scarf can be worn many ways....tied in front, wrapped around the neck, hanging free, draped over shoulders, draped over the head...............

TWENTYFIVETOGO

2011-10-22T10:51:00.000-07:00

Get a jump on your holiday shopping with this 25% coupon code, TWENTYFIVETOGO, in Venus d'Pyro's Etsy shop. Discount applies to all items.
Don't forget to use the code: TWENTYFIVETOGO

2011-10-03T18:27:00.001-07:00

Just right temperature for printing. Unfortunately, my mind wandered a bit and I realized I should quit while I was ahead.

Ahhhhh....cooler weather makes for happier printing

2011-10-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

The weather has cooled down, making the printing of fabric sooooooooo much nicer. Ironing the fabric to the freezer paper is no longer excruciatingly hot. Top left: a wonderfully soft wool that will probably go into a jacket. Bottom: butterflies on silk chiffon. Top right: Sandy came up with a great drawing based on new jewelry she is making. It's hard to see in this picture, but the watercolor textures are amazing. I LOVE HER \ideas and ca't wait to see them realized.

BEADING FOR BURLAP

2011-09-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

A crazy workday with Susan Emerson, seen here beading away in preparation for The Burlap Harlot Show on Saturday, September 24.

BUNDLNG FOR BURLAP

2011-09-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

Making clothes from one-of-a-kind fabrics leaves a lot of scraps. What to do with them? MAKE BUNDLES for THE BURLAP HARLOT SHOW! Perfect for small bags, covered buttons, patchwork pillows, collages, etc., etc., etc. Don't forget....the fabrics are artist-printed-one-of-a-kind. They're just in smaller pieces.

Vintage pattern silk scarf

2011-09-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for The Burlap Harlot Show coming to the Shasta District Fairgrounds on September 24. I printed a vintage floral design on Habatoi silk. The sewing machine belonged to my grandmother, a most amazing seamstress. Love it.

Two more designs for today

2011-09-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

Snakes in the grass (leaves)

Today's Fabrics

2011-09-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

New silks - chiffon and crinkle.
Sometimes the printer likes me, sometimes it doesn't.
Chiffon printed great - bloopers on the crinkle. Fortunately, they can be worked with.

Many thanks to special friends

2011-09-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

Just finished hanging the show at Redding City Hall (Civic Center.) I couldn't have done it without the help of Sandy and Susan. No way.

Great group of artists.
Patt Causey
Denise Dethlefsen
Derek Grinnell
Gini Holmes
Stephanie Luke
Page Miller
Vickie Wolf
Aaron Eby (Redding Library)
Stephen Woolery (Redding Library)

Great staff and volunteers.
Hope to see you all on Sept. 22nd.

MAKING PILLOWS - "MAKING PIES"

2011-08-23T16:11:00.000-07:00

It's hot out. What to do?
Make pillows from leftover fabrics and listen to "Making Pies" by Patty Griffin. Yum.

THREE IN A ROW

2011-08-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

If only...............

I don't really have three printers in a row, but I do have Photoshop!

THINGS MADE OVER A WEEKEND

2011-08-16T15:55:00.000-07:00

I had a busy weekend creating these items from new fabrics I printed. The short jackets are made using recycled cotton on which I printed digitally altered retro floral patterns. The tunic jackets are created from silk crepe scarves printed with digitally altered images. Every item is washable.

These soft cotton (recycled) jacket with Kimono sleeves fit sizes 10-16.

Two 2" x 90" silk crepe scarves sewn halfway on back and sides for flowing fit. Copper glass beading down the front.
Top: Digitally altered jellyfish image on black background.
Bottom: Digitally altered retro abstract image.

Mid-length tunic jacket made from two 15" x 70" silk crepe scarves sewn halfway in back and sides, beading on open front.
Digitally altered retro pattern, iridescent blue beads.

LIKE A HOUSE ON FIRE selected for National Juried Exhibition

2011-08-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

My Giclee on aluminum, LIKE A HOUSE ON FIRE, has been accepted to the Pacific Art League, Palo Alto, CA national juried exhibition, Multiples.

September 2 - 29

Juror: Rebecca M. Schapp, Director, de Saisset Museum, Santa Clara University

I'm excited about getting back to the "art stream."

Whoa! Must ship this off, then organize work for the Autumn Exhibit, Art in the City Hall. Thought I had until October. Nope. September 12. OOPS!

After that, Contemporary Crafts Market, Santa Monica (November), San Francisco (March), Santa Monica (June)

A PIECE OF JEWELRY PAT CAN RELATE TO!

2011-08-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

Wearable Art Blog highlights Ganoksin Show: Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder
The Ganoksin Project, an amazing online resource for jewelers and those who love jewelry, has a great show right now featuring nearly 250 pieces by more than 50 artists from around the world.
Called "Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder," the exhibit is meant to show that jewelry made of materials other than metals is appealing - even if it's made of nontraditional or inexpensive metals or utilitarian things. Many of the artists in the show are new jewelry makers or are relatively unknown, which makes the work especially interesting.

I especially like this piece by artist Judith Freyer Thompson, made out of an antique headlamp bulb and copper. Perhaps Pat shall find some of his amp tubes missing in the near future?

BEATING THE HEAT

2011-07-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

These pictures indicate how I was feeling. Working early and getting out before the temps rise. Still.......thankful that it isn't like the rest of the continent East of the Rockies, especially in asphalt jungles.

Tell Congressional Republicans: Don't turn America into a deadbeat nation!

2011-07-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

Tell Congressional Republicans: Don't turn America into a deadbeat nation!: "Sign Barbara Boxer's urgent open letter to national Republican leaders today: Tell them that Big Oil, big corporations, and millionaires & billionaires should pay their fair share to end this default crisis!"

PERFECT WEATHER, GREAT WORK DAY

2011-07-13T17:25:00.000-07:00

Cotton, Silk, Silk Crepe. Florals and Jellyfish.

Everything went well and I even knew when to quit.

Next step(s): Steaming the fabrics fr 3 hours, then letting them sit for 48 before washing.

Whew!

ROOM FULL OF FABRIC

2011-07-09T15:26:00.000-07:00

Plan 9 from Outer Redding:

Get to Studio by 6am
Prep fabric
Print without haste
Quit while still ahead (once upstairs temperature reaches 100)

Summer Dresses by Sarah Clemens

2011-07-08T08:02:00.000-07:00

via WEARABLE ART BLOG
...designed by Sarah Clemens of Pennsylvania, who learned to sew by watching her mother and grandmother.
Sarah's creations are made at her home by "super girls who sew, cut and take care of the computer stuff."

SOLD!

2011-06-11T08:47:00.000-07:00

Just a sampling of what has been selling at the Venus d'Pyro booth, Contemporary Crafts Market. Great crowds, great vendors, fantastic organizers and staff. Exhausting, but satisfying. Two more days to go.

The Booth is Ready

2011-06-09T21:29:00.000-07:00

Contemporary Crafts Market, Santa Monica

Easy set-up, then three hour sleep crash before heading out for the beach and the 3rd Street Promenade. So nice to see people, hear music, eat fine food.

Now...we just need to make it through the next three days and then the drive home.

JUNE 10, 11, 12

2011-05-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

COUNTING THE DAYS - SEWING AWAY

BOOTH 351

You saw the cat sitting on the fabric, now see the finished jacket

2011-05-22T18:58:00.000-07:00

Two Habatoi silk scarves were printed with an abstract image of Iris. Hand-sewn, the garment gently flows with the motion of the body.

I love the feel of this silk. Soft - so luxurious.

And...........washable.

Why working at home isn't always an option

2011-05-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

Three of the patterns I printed today

2011-05-17T17:16:00.000-07:00

I just love printing on the silk scarves from Dharma Trading Company, especially the silk chiffon and silk crepe. The fabrics just love the colors and steam beautifully. I pre-treated the fabric with a mixture of Alum and Soda Ash. The steam activates this mixture and helps set the dyes.

VENUS d'PYRO signs Venus de Milo

2011-05-13T19:19:00.000-07:00

In a major fashion coupe, Venus d'Pyro signed the glorious, voluptuous Venus de Milo as its signature model. Though unable to work the runway circuit, Ms.de Milo will be Venus d'Pyro's featured model in all photo media campaigns.

"This is the perfect marriage of fashion and beauty," said a Venus d'Pyro representative. "Just as there is only one de Milo, making her the uniquely ultimate icon of feminine individuality, so, too, does our individually creative line of clothing."

JOIN VENUS d'PYRO AT THE SAN FRANCISCO BEAD AND DESIGN SHOW

2011-04-30T10:25:00.000-07:00

We have been invited to exhibit our work at the San Francisco Bead and Design Show
May 6 - 8, 2011; 10am to 6pm Friday-Saturday, 10am to 5pm Sunday.

Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport
1333 Old Bayshore Highway, Burlingame, CA 94010 [ Google Maps ]
Highlights

Visit 200 unique artisan booths, galleries, and displays —in one location; offering the highest quality and best value in beads, gemstones, jewelry, gold & silver, textiles, antiquities, art clothing, and objets d'art.
Workshops

Workshops, classes, do-it-yourself projects, demonstrations, and free "make & takes" —including techniques in hand knotting, jewelry design, beadmaking, soldering, polymer clay, mixed media, and wirework.

For expedited show entry, register online! Admission is $10, good for all three days. Open to the public —both wholesale and retail pricing.

A FEW ITEMS FOR THE CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS SHOW IN SANTA MONICA

2011-04-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

Picture slideshow customized with Smilebox

NANCY GROSSMAN REDUX

2011-03-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

The latest posting from THE WEARABLE ART BLOG features fantasmagorical work by artist is Riina Õun of Õun Design.

I couldn't help but make a connection with the work of NANCY GROSSMAN, who became famous in the 60's for "her sculptures of heads carefully carved from the soft wood of discarded telephone poles, overlaid with leather and adorned with zippers, glass eyes, enamel noses, spikes and straps." (from her biography)

Patchwork Couture by Gibbous Fashions

2011-03-07T08:10:00.000-08:00

From Wearable Art Blog:
Gibbous Fashions on EcoFashion Talk. Gibbous describes themselves as a "miniature fashion house" that's committed to "harvesting the lost trinkets of the city" (they're located in the San Francisco Bay Area) and turning them into one-of-a-kind clothing from "left-behind" things - starting from scratch. Their work, often infused with humor, is very vintage in style.

I can't wait to visit this place when next in the City.

SANDY!!!!!!!!! ROAD TRIP!!!!!!!!

You can see more on Gibbous Fashions or visit Swankety Swank in San Francisco.

ONE MUSEUM, TWO AMAZING EXHIBITS

2011-02-20T18:54:00.000-08:00

Getting away can be so inspirational. I recommend getting away to the Palace of Legion of Honor to see these two exhibits. you really won't believe what you see.

Pulp Fashion: The Art of Isabelle de Borchgrave

February 5, 2011 - June 5, 2011

Belgian artist Isabelle de Borchgrave is a painter by training, but textile and costume are her muses. Working in collaboration with leading costume historians and young fashion designers, de Borchgrave crafts a world of splendor from the simplest rag paper. Painting and manipulating the paper, she forms trompe l’oeil masterpieces of elaborate dresses inspired by rich depictions in early European painting or by iconic costumes in museum collections around the world. The Legion of Honor is the first American museum to dedicate an entire exhibition to the work of Isabelle de Borchgrave, although her creations have been widely displayed in Europe.

Arthur Szyk: Miniature Paintings and Modern Illuminations

December 4, 2010 - March 27, 2011

Arthur Szyk (American, b. Poland, 1894–1951) is best remembered for his diverse work as an artist and illustrator, from pochoir illustrations for traditional Jewish and Polish folktales and religious texts to watercolor designs for political cartoons that were regularly featured on the cover of Collier’s magazine throughout the 1930s and '40s. Szyk’s Polish and Jewish heritage remained central, and his attention to detail betrayed considerable historical research into his craft. His work recalls the intricate illumination present in medieval manuscripts, Near-Eastern miniature paintings, and traditional Polish and Jewish folk arts. Arthur Szyk: Miniature Paintings and Modern Illuminations is a presentation of approximately 70 drawings and illustrations.

OLD PHOTOS, VACATION PHOTOS, AND PRINTING ON METAL

2011-02-08T18:01:00.000-08:00

I have been scanning glass negatives that were given to me over 25 years ago. Fascinating images of lives lived somewhere in our valley. Portraits, farm views, workers, families, children, immigrants...so many images from a time lost. I've been thinking about these images and what to do with them for 25 years. Nothing clicked until I started printing on metal.
It's still slow going, but I'm feeling good about my combinations.

STUDIO DAZE

2011-01-30T12:07:00.000-08:00

The tablet is working well, the printer is primed and printing beautifully, the other printer is getting a "tune up." All-in-all, a happy day.

One question. Why do corporations mess with a good thing? (I know that this is a redundant question.) My refurbished 7600 is flexible, durable, easy to manipulate, easy to take apart and put back together. A simple workhorse with little headache. But, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. It must be made better (read: better for the manufacturer as in more dependency.) Less user friendly.
For me, less is more.

PRINTING ON METAL

2011-01-28T15:46:00.000-08:00

It's taken time, but my new inkjet printer has finally been restored (beautifully, I might say,) by Alpha Copy and is installed in my studio. Ahhhhhhhhh.......two large format printers! One for sublimation work, one for inkjet printing.
My first experiment? Inkjet printing on metal. All I need to do is come up with images! (the two beow are slightly different.)

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

2011-01-25T18:37:00.000-08:00

Christian Dior Spring Couture 2011-WWD

no comment required

PRODUCTION DAY REALLY WORKS!

2011-01-11T18:26:00.000-08:00

What happens when two ADHD adults get together for a "production day"?
? With good, strong, coffee: success from chaos. Sandy and I actually kept relatively focused. She took my jackets to another level by suggesting appliques and added beading. I did try to distract her with scarf ideas, but she brought me back with comments such as "not now," "later," "that's not what we're doing, today."

Distraction was kept relatively low until I commented on her great vest and she found the perfect fabric for a prototype...............it's actually more of a blouse.....still thinking

Now.......where to eat dinner?

FAIRYTALE FOOTSIES!

2011-01-07T08:08:00.000-08:00

REN CUMING FAIRYSTEPS

FROM THE WEARABLE ART BLOG

These adorable boots with pointy toes and beautiful ribbon laces are made by 'Ren - The Fairy Shoemaker' of 'Fairysteps' studio. The self-taught Ren Cuming makes all of the shoes and leather goods by hand in Devon, England and has been doing so since 2005.

The 'Prickle' shoes (above) feature fanciful polka dot satin ribbons top laced over a holly leaf lacing panel.
I really like the distinctive, playful quirkiness of these amazing designs. On her website Ren says that her shoes are "...the perfect antidote to modern mass produced goods"--a statement that captures the essence of wearable art and why I like her work so much.
For handmade shoes, they're very reasonably priced, too. You can see more at Fairysteps on Etsy.

WASTE NOT - WANT NOT

2011-01-05T18:11:00.000-08:00

After the hectic Holidays, I'm returning to "following" those links on my blog. Today's delightful highlight:

MORNA CRITES MOORE: WICKED WAIF

"I learned to knit and sew when I was a young girl - and that was when I fell in love with textiles. I am especially fond of old textiles - their soft hand and faded palette, the occasional mended patch. I like to make new things from old things, including a wonderful felted wool which I make from old wool sweaters. I often wonder about the life that was led by the abandoned articles of clothing I use in my work. Does this little pair of mittens have memories of building a snowman? Does that cardigan sweater remember its freshman year at college?"

A MONTH AWAY - TIME TO THINK - STARTING AGAIN

2010-12-25T11:18:00.000-08:00

It was so sunny and beautiful in Costa Rica. Coming home to Winter such a shock. Time to re-evaluate and re-create. I began by printing this fabric for a new Shoji Screen.

Back to work!

THIS ONE'S FOR YOU, ROBIN!

2010-11-22T17:54:00.000-08:00

The following is from The Wearable Art Blog:

Leather Accessories from SM Walker

SM Walker is the fashion accessories label of Stephanie Macdonald-Walker, who handcrafts highly sculpted and stylish boleros, shrugs and bags out of leather. Walker is a UK-based fashion and accessories designer who only graduated from fashion school earlier this year.

Rustic maroon leather scarf with wool and silk lining

I love the drama and power of these designs. And I marvel that they're so professionally made by a designer who's just starting out. I think Walker has a big career ahead of her. Do you?

I discovered Walker's creations on Not Just a Label. You can see her whole collection at SM Walker.

I was fortunate to have been chosen as a guest artist. What an amazing experience. My recommendation: Go For It!

2010-11-19T17:34:00.000-08:00

Call to Artists: “Stay in the Woods at Whiskeytown’s Artist Cabin”

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, as part of the National Park Service's Artist-in-Residence Program, is seeking professional artists working in photography, sculpture, and painting to apply to participate in the 2011 Residency Program. Selected artists will have the opportunity to spend up to three weeks in an artists’ cabin at Whiskeytown to produce new works inspired by the park’s diverse natural and cultural resources.

Prospective artists will gain inspiration by exploring and interpreting this special landscape; the forested slopes of Shasta Bally Mountain, surrounding oak woodlands, majestic waterfalls, and clear blue waters of Whiskeytown Lake. In exchange for their stay, artists will be asked to give a public presentation and donate a piece of art reflective of their time at Whiskeytown N.R.A.

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is located approximately 3½ hours north of the San Francisco Bay Area and 2 hours north of Sacramento. Whiskeytown is situated just seven miles west of Redding, California. The park features 39,000 acres of forests and a beautiful 3,200-acre lake nestled among the hills and valleys of California's Klamath Mountains. The cabin is a great base from which to explore the park by boat, car, or on foot.

Artists are asked to submit:1)      Artist resume and exhibition record.
2)      Statement of intent for residency, not to exceed one page in length, to include: Relevance of work to nature & specific focus of project to be completed during residency.
3)      Sample of artistic works: 5-8 recent images on CD.
4)      Indication of preferred residency dates.

Mail or deliver application to:

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Attn: Artist-in-Residence Program
P.O. Box 188Whiskeytown, CA 96095

Applications will be accepted until February 15, 2011. For more information, please contact Sheila Edridge, Artist-in-Residence Coordinator at Whiskeytown.Art@gmail.com, or P.O. Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA 96095.

WORKS IN PROGRESS

2010-11-17T19:41:00.000-08:00

I just couldn't "get into" the travel pillows I saw for sale, so I decided to make my own using silk and satin scarves that I had printed. I've been leaning against walls in my house to see how they work. So far, so good.

I was blown away by this work

2010-11-11T15:43:00.000-08:00

Via the Wearable Art Blog

Royah Collection: Ethical Fashion from Afghanistan

When you think of Afghanistan, do you immediately think of war? Sad to say, I do. But, here's a different twist. Two women who wanted to make a difference there decided to create a business to fight poverty and preserve ancient embroidery traditions. And so they created Royah in 2005. One of the founders is Zolayhka Sherzad, an Afghan architect living and working in New York, and the other is Italian designer Gabriella Ghidoni.

COSTUME JEWELRY

2010-11-11T14:39:00.000-08:00

There's nothing like costume jewelry. I know. I've been sorting it for two weeks. The result? A great selection to be found at the 5601 STUDIO SALE on November 14 between 11am and 4pm. The selection below is just 1/4 of what's on sale.

GOT ART?

2010-11-08T18:02:00.000-08:00

Lining up the items for the 5601 STUDIO SALE.
Photos, paintings, drawings, prints, frames.....................great prices!
These are just some of the items.

BOOKS, BOOKS, BOOKS

2010-11-06T18:32:00.000-07:00

Alice and I started sorting items for our 5601 STUDIO SALE, November 14, 11 am - 4 pm.

I knew I had collected a lot of books over the years, but..........geeeze.

Anyway: Great selection. Very diverse. From 25 cents to $20. Average price: $3

THINGS TO DO WITH CARDBOARD

2010-11-05T18:04:00.000-07:00

Ritsuko Ogura at Alternatives Gallery

I love the weekly WEARABLE ART BLOG updates.

20% OFF SALE

2010-10-22T16:29:00.000-07:00

Dress yourself up for the holidays in a one-of-a-kind, artist made, flirty circle skirt These taffeta circle skirts are individually printed "per piece" by the artist. Originally $92, now $73.60. Visit STORE for details.

Perfect with a little tank or soft cashmere.

THE DAYS ARE GETTING COOLER, THE NIGHTS LONGER

2010-10-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

Looking for a lightweight, yet warm, accessory? Try one of these satin neck wraps. Add a splash of color to your fall/winter wardrobe. Non-bulky, they are easily folded and stored in your purse when. Te soft satin feels great against your skin while providing much needed warmth. Can also be worn as accent belts.
4" x 80"
Just $35. Free shipping.
One-of-a-kind, dye-printed poly satin. Washable. Use medium/synthetic iron setting.
STORE

WEARABLE ART BLOG HIGHLIGHTS STEPHEN JONES HATS

2010-10-18T17:52:00.000-07:00

The Wearable Art Blog is dedicated to building appreciation of the most talented jewelry and fashion designers specializing in handmade design from the U.S. and around the globe.

SANDY'S GLASSWARE

2010-09-27T14:56:00.000-07:00

The beauty of Sandy's fused glass never ceases to amaze me.

Her jewelry is strikingly unique, amazingly lightweight, and exceptionally affordable.

And then, there's her "household" items.

AHA!

2010-09-24T17:25:00.000-07:00

After much ado about nothing, I finally figured out how to place my FB Store in the right column. Now, many more hours of adding images and writing those darn descriptions.

RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH

2010-09-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

Having just purchased another wide format printer, I am doing a lot of research regarding inkjet printing on fabrics: specifically, dye-based vs. pigment-based, inks. The best part about research? Discovering the many artists already doing incredible work.
Check out Gloria Hansen's great article at

ARTIST CHRISTINE MARIE

2010-09-22T19:03:00.000-07:00

I joined the yahoo group, inkjet_transfers@yahoogroups.com. This is a great source not only for learning about techniques and idea sharing, but also for finding out about many amazing artists. One such artist is Christine Marie O'Brien. Visit her blog at

WHAT A WONDERFUL WAY TO SHARE AND CREATE

2010-08-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

Looking for inspiration? Visit this blog.

Every two months, after a sumptuous pot luck dinner, one in our group of eight artists will disseminate a black and white photo to the group. Each artist, using textiles as the primary medium, will create a work using that photo as inspiration. The maximum perimeter is 112 inches.

A DIVERGENCE FROM FABRIC

2010-08-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

LYNN CUNNINGHAM is a Davis-based artist who is also "branching out" (her own words.) She recently moved into new studio space in the Art Foundry, downtown Sacramento. I am very excited about meeting this talented artist and "branching out," as well.
Enjoy her work.
http://paintboxjournal.blogspot.com/
http://www.lynnecunningham.com/

OF OLD SHEETS AND NEW LINEN

2010-08-18T20:54:00.000-07:00

I have found that printing on old sheets, or "re-purposing", is quite enjoyable. The fabric lends itself to the softest, most "familiar," clothing.
I find the sheets in second hand stores and yard sales. I'm still trying to figure out how to ask for them. "Slightly used"? "Gently loved"?

This jacket series is inspired by a Hawaiian jacket my uncle gave me in the 50's. I wore that darn thing until a year ago. (Obviously, it was much to large for me as a child, but I didn't care.)

This short jacket was influenced by a picture given to me by my friend, Jackie Jeantette. Jackie owns a great little shop, Jeantette's, specializing in fantastic, upscale, clothing.
I printed a digitally altered image of granite on a soft, green bed sheet.

I used burnout linen printed with a red lily pattern to make this variation.
German glass buttons close the asymmetrical front.

I'VE GOTTEN OVER MY BLUE PHASE

2010-08-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

These are long (22"x90" or 22"x72"), silk scarves I printed before the heat set in and the studio became unbearable. Some are solid Habatoi, others alternate solid with chiffon stripes. They have already been washed twice to set the colors. Very soft. Very elegant.

Blue Butterfly Blue Lakshmi Geisha

Passion Flower Silk Lakshmi Chiffon Lakshmi

Retro Floral Red Butterfly Lilies

Red Rocks Turquoise Jellyfish Yellowbird

WRAP OF THE DAY

2010-08-13T13:10:00.000-07:00

Silk and silk chiffon striped fabric printed by artist with a digital interpretation from her Creek Series.
Lightweight garment is a great travel item, as it can be worn so many ways. Dress up or down. Wear with jeans or as a cover-up over a gauzy dress.
It's up to your imagination.

CATCH-UP AFTER THE SILENCE

2010-08-10T19:58:00.000-07:00

I've been printing in between heat spells. Printing and sewing. Now is the time to edit images and post, but just one item at a time.
TODAY'S WRAP

I abstracted a vintage Japanese print of a Geisha and printed it on this elegant silk/chiffon fabric. I then over stitched two pieces together and added German glass buttons to make an adjustable (sizes) garment that can be worn several ways.

TWO MORE JACKETS

2010-07-22T20:06:00.000-07:00

This YETI JACKET was made from re-purposed cotton (sheet) on which I printed a floral abstraction and images of the YETI crab, the tiniest crab living at the bottom of the ocean. German glass buttons close the front.

Another re-purposed sheet printed with butterflies and a digitally altered, vintage fabric pattern.

Both items fit medium - large
Very soft and comfortable.

WHEN IT'S HOT OUTSIDE, SEW INSIDE

2010-07-18T17:46:00.000-07:00

I spent the first half of the week printing fabrics. I knew the weekend would be ridiculously hot and the studio would be unbearable, so I wanted to stock up for sewing time. If only I was totally dedicated and not easily distracted. Besides, my sewing foot keeps swelling up. How I miss Mom's old Kenmore with the knee lever!

Here are just a few of the new items:

This multi-functional "wrap" is made of crinkle silk printed with Zinfandel grapes. The two panels are slightly different in color to add interest and sewn together with purple thread over stitching. Blue, German glass buttons adjust the shoulder, bust, and waist fits. Buttons are also sewn on the sides if the wearer wishes to make armholes.

Another multi-wrap made from crinkle silk printed with red and blue lilies. Red German glass buttons and purple over stitching.

I'm working on a jacket series made of re-purposed sheets printed with my altered images. This jacket is printed with an abstract design from the 50's which I digitally altered.

Still photographing the others. The heat and mosquitos make me a bit wobbly, so I need to go to the studio and use my tripod.

ONLY 98 DEGREES, TODAY!

2010-07-13T19:44:00.000-07:00

I'm madly trying to print fabrics before the temp goes back up to 105 or more.
Experimented with a new fabric "coating." I bought some online - a very little bottle for a large sum.
Smelling it, I figured I could make my own compound, and I did. First day of printing with this and...........it works!
The inks reacted vibrantly when ironed, steamed well and washed beautifully. Only a small amount of residue ink came out in the final washing.

This printing is on a heavy cotton sheet. I will most likely make a short Kimono-style jacket.

ZINFANDEL

2010-07-04T12:08:00.000-07:00

Inspired by a recent post by Glen Huntsberger of Bella Vineyards, I printed this image on a 100% silk/crepe striped scarf for a very good friend. Ah, the Zinfandel grape.

FRIDAY ROAD TRIP WITH SANDY

2010-07-03T20:59:00.000-07:00

FIRST FRIDAY, MONTANA MORRISON AND NEW ITEMS
We finally got ourselves dressed up and out of town (albeit not very far.)
First on the agenda? First Friday at Red Bluff Gallery to see the work of Jay Murphy and Eugenie Hirsch, along with several other wonderful artists. In the Video Cube: The Wolfman in New York, by Matt Barry.
Then, next door to see the incredible works of Montana Morrison. If you haven't been to this gallery to see these fantastic works, GO!

Sandy looked great in my new multi-wrap, the Blue Passion Flower. She wore it off-the-shoulder, but it can be worn as a skirt, a strapless top, a shoulder cover-up.

Made of 100% wrinkle silk and over-stitched with silver thread, it's German glass buttons are spaced to allow for all size adjustments.

Looks great with anything from jeans to evening gowns.

DIGITAL ATALIER

2010-07-01T19:11:00.001-07:00

I just love this site
http://www.digitalatelier.com/

Shop Handmade - Rewarding Creativity

2010-06-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

Shop Handmade - Rewarding Creativity

FLORAL SILKS

2010-06-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like drying fabrics on the line.

These crinkle silks will be made into flowing shoulder wraps/skirts, a new design that is very simple, yet elegantly versatile. (See below)

I used the Pink Jellyfish striped silk to make this shoulder wrap/skirt. German glass buttons on the shoulders make the piece adjustable. Light green over stitching accents the edges.

Wear as a boat neck.......

as a v-neck.......

as a skirt

A BUSY WEEKEND

2010-06-21T18:54:00.000-07:00

The weekend didn't get too hot, so it was a great time to print more fabrics. I'm still adjusting the color levels of the inks, so every print is a surprise. That's the best part!

This is a print I made from photos I took in Sandy's garden. First, I mirrored the image and repeated to create a kaleidoscope effect, then I painted larger and smaller flowers on top for diversity.

Here's the fabric after heat setting, steaming and washing.

This is another abstraction from a picture I took in Sandy's garden. Printed on Dupioni.

Eggshell NadaPrada on Dupioni

Dupioni double printed with an altered image of vintage wallpaper

The Textile Blog: Virginia Abrams Reflections

2010-06-17T18:53:00.000-07:00

The Textile Blog: Virginia Abrams Reflections
Virginia Abrams' work is a wonder to see

THE JELLYFISH ARE BACK

2010-06-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

One difficult day of printing. I guess the silk thought that having a jellyfish pattern printed on it, it should behave like a jellyfish and move all over the place. Frustrating!

The good part? My new mixture of inks really saturates the silk when heat pressed, eliminating the need for steaming - for thin silk, anyway. I'm still running tests to see which process (heat press/no steaming or heat press/steaming) renders the best colors.

I finally took pictures of the Lakshmi Pants that Sandy made from silk I printed. These pants are sooooo comfortable - and washable

Another cut linen draped vest. This one has buttons on the side to easily adjust the size. The print is the jellyfish print I posted a few days ago (last week?)

JELLYFISH AND MOUSE CELLS

2010-06-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

Cut linen and Dupioni Silk.

The printer and I had a few "moments," but...all-in-all...a good day.

I printed the cut linen with a jellyfish interpretation

and the Dupioni with a kaleidoscope of mouse cells.

TODAY'S FABRIC

2010-06-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

CUT LINEN AND FERNS

Back to the studio - though it is rather hot.

Must get a new cooling system.

Just a small amount of the cut linen left.

anyone know of a good, wholesale source?

This print will be made into another draped jacket
/vest.

TODAY'S FABRIC

2010-05-31T20:59:00.000-07:00

I am still enjoying the "honeymoon stage" with my new printer. I am mesmerized by the way it produces my designs. (Am I drooling myself into a technological stupor?)

This cotton print will work well in a Kimono.

FABRIC FOR TODAY

2010-05-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

New printer, new designs, new fun. This comes from an old fabric sample of my mom's. I altered the design and printed it on recycled cotton (old sheet.)

Finally, some new work

2010-05-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

My printer blew up and I have been anxiously awaiting the new one. Upgrading to 24" from 17" so that I can actually reduce my supply costs. (It's a racket, I tell ya!")

To pass the time, I've actually been cleaning my studio and working with fabrics I printed a while back, but wasn't sure what I wanted to make. I ended up with this circle skirt made from a medium weight cotton on which I printed a retro translation of a floral pattern. I had odd widths, lengths and color saturations. I over stitched the pieces and added pockets. There is no front or back, just endless variations.

Updating the website ...ackackackackack!

2010-04-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Venus d'Pyro

To web, blog, linkedin, facebook, myspace, storefront, network, network, network.....or not.

Which is the best?

Who reads what?

Where does the time come from?

Will colleagues send their updates?

Isn't there more life?

I'm too old for this.

not

FUN DAY WITH JACKIE

2010-04-18T20:02:00.000-07:00

I'm a little late on posting, but......things happen.

Thursday was a productive day at Jeantette's.

We moved things around and arranged skirts with T-Shirts and blouses.

Too bad I'll have to take things apart for the Holistic Fair this weekend.

Ah, well.

This little number is actually a print of screws and nails.

Printed on a lightweight fabric (yes, it's synthetic) with an accent ruffle.

Drawstring waist.

Size 0-4

The "Button" skirt is jaggedy, raggedy.

Lightweight (synthetic) fabric stitched with seams meant to fray, asymmetrical hem, colorful buttons accent a front pocket. Drawstring waist.

Size 0 - 10

The "Grapefruit" skirt teams so well with a salmon T.

This retro pattern was printed on taffeta and stitched together with red accent thread.

Red ribbon "drawstring" waist makes skirt adjustable for sizes 0 - 10.

Ahhhhhhhhhh.................

Jackie surely know how to combine my creations with her clothing.

I printed this little shoulder cover on a synthetic crepe and edged it with lime green stitching.

GRAPEFRUIT, ANYONE?

2010-04-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

I made another taffeta circle skirt out of the "grapefruit" fabric I printed two days ago.

Loving the retro theme.

Two pockets accented with German glass buttons.

Stopped by Jeantette's to check on her latest additions. She is working on her black and white section

and is featuring Venus d'Pyro clothing in her cruise wear

knit vest (center) drawstring pants (right)

satin neck wrap and pants with crinkle top

A GOOD DAY FOR FABRICS

2010-04-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

It's just great when things fall into place, and today was one of those times. The silk adhered to the freezer paper, the designs, the colors "popped," and the printing went smooth. The first two photos show two different "granite interpretations" on silk.

The side-by-side photo shows a print on taffeta before being heat set (left) and after (right.)

Taffeta - my new obsession.

TAFFETA! & more

2010-04-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of shopping at The Fabulous Fabric Shop, where I bought plain taffeta for printing on ... and more. Great service, very friendly. PLUS>>>>>>discount for buying in bulk. What a fantastic welcome present.

I printed some of my new hardware designs on the taffeta (screws, nails, and resisters) and then made some funky circle skirts. Over stitching seems to be my current mania.

Screws and Nuts Taffeta Circle Skirt with light green thread over stitching

Resisters Circle Taffeta Skirt with red thread over stitching

I also made some other skirts with other fabrics.......

Palms Circle Skirt: digitally altered image of old postcard, Huntington Gardens

Lightweight poly blend with great body, red thread over stitching

Nuts, Bolts and Screws Circle Skirt with ruffle

Lightweight poly blend