Here's to a Heartfelt New Year!

New Year!

2017 is going to

filled with

I'm going to 

to the occasion.

Enjoy the

have

each step of the way.

and

Join me?

****************************************

Each of the pieces shown above is from 

"When Hearts Take Flight"

an artistic collaboration between 

Jean Skipper and Jodi Ohl.

Watch for more collaborative efforts and exciting news and announcements from Jean, Jodi, and ReMe Retreats in 2017!

In Living Color

In my jewelry and in my mixed media assemblages, I tend to be drawn to the same colors again and again.  These include the raw colors of all types of metal, and of metal in various forms of decay.  This palette is comforting to my eye, and somehow it has a story to tell.


In my work, the exception to this includes any and all of the folk art pieces that I create.  In these, all bets are off!  Bright rules; more colors are a wonderful thing; and generally each piece is polka dotted to within an inch of its life.



While I adore both of these approaches to my art, for years I've challenged myself to "add more color to my jewelry".  This has come in the form of beads, enameling, fiber, and various patinas.

In January, I joined the talented Debbie Keen and Nikki Thornburg-Lanigan for a weekend of creative play.  During our time together, we experimented with metal etching, enameling, graphite, colored pencils, and alcohol inks.  We learned from the good , the bad, and the ugly... and we had a ball!


As I posted this photos to Facebook today, I realized that this process of adding color continues to evolve for me, and I love where it's going.

The journey continues...

When Opportunity Knocks - Creations from Jewelry Class - ReMe - Ocracoke - May 2016

Here's a sample of my work in process from my
'When Opportunity Knocks" Class

At the beginning of May, I had the absolute pleasure of leading my 'When Opportunity Knocks' class at our ReMe Retreat - Ocracoke.

This exploration in self expression is represented by vintage treasures, found objects, resin, beads, baubles, and other parts and pieces.  Our guests knocked it right out of the park!

Here for your viewing pleasure, in no particular order, are 

our guests' creations from this class.

**************************************************************************

We'll be publicly debuting our next 

ReMe Retreat on Monday, May 23rd.  

Stay tuned for more details!

Spotlight on Blue Horse Market!

My jewelry, artfully displayed at Blue Horse.

Last weekend, I was lucky to spend a bit of time wandering one of my favorite local stores, Blue Horse Market.  Blue Horse, owned by the talented Sharon and Jeff Augustyniak, is located near my hometown.  Sharon and I met when I owned Artist Alley, when I represented her work.  Now the tables have turned, and I'm grateful for the opportunities that they've created for me.

Blue Horse is so much more than 'just another store'.  With craft beers, a large wine selection, antiques, comfy couches, hot coffee, handmade goods aplenty, farm fresh food offerings, and more; this modern country store has become an integral part of our community.

The following photos don't begin to do it justice!  If you're in the neighborhood, do yourself a favor, and stop.  If you're not in the neighborhood, make it a destination.  I promise you'll be glad that you did.

A glimpse at some of the kids' creations at Blue Horse.

This repurposed bed frame promotes local businesses and our community.

North Carolina Pottery and other treasures.

Sharon's handmade Mat and Frame,
my Ode to The Sandhills,
Amy Smith's Canvas Earrings, and other treasures.

From floor to ceiling you'll find treasures at Blue Horse Market!

Blue Horse Market is located at 3196 Vass Carthage Road, at the 

intersection of Niagra Carthage Road, in Whispering Pines, North Carolina.

Their phone number is 910-949-2996, and you'll also find them on Facebook.

Here's to a Swank Filled Season!

LOVE the piece above my display

Anytime is the right time to visit Swank Coffee in Handmade Market in Southern Pines!  The lovely Lisa, owner of Swank, has a heart as big as her head.  She kind, friendly, compassionate, patient, and so much more.  Her gentle soul is the real secret behind Swank's success, and I absolutely love working with her!

This morning I was thrilled to fully stock the shop with my latest creations, and I also had the opportunity to browse.  A walk through Swank is like a visit with dear friends and their work.  There are paintings by Jacqueline Sadler, Amy Smith, Jodi Ohl, and more!  pottery by Suzanne Rehbock.... photography and accessories by Sharon Augustyniak... the cutest clothing and accessories for adults and children... metal sculptures by Jean and Randy Chapman... dog collars and accessories by Kelly Lawson Stevens... and so much more!

What a lovely way to start the day!

 

 

Have Tools Will Travel!

Between the hospital, rehab, and the doctor’s office, I’ve been spending a lot of time on the go with my Mom lately.  I generally pack for these adventures as if I’ll be away for a weekend, with my purse, laptop, a good book, and a variety of other “necessities” that could make me a winner on Lets Make a Deal.  In kindness to my back, I’ve been trying to lighten my load.

This was my brainstorm today, and I think it's a winner. Who knew that a quart jar would be the perfect size for my components, a roll of wire, pliers, and flush cutters?!?!

This is my idea of successful canning!