Connie's Dream

Second ABC round robin exchange #2

2012-01-22T21:36:00.000-08:00

Greetings Everyone!

It's high time I showed the art work from our second swap. This time around I received Lisa's book. Her theme was Into The Trees...a fairytale of sorts. Wow-talk about an open ended subject! Again the problem I had was narrowing down the subject into something that would fit into a spread but still be uniquely my own. As luck would have it I had just finished the book you see above: Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. I'll admit that I am enamoured with this book and highly recommend it. It's got to be one of the most creative books I've read in quite some while. Yes it peculiar. It is listed as a young adult book but much like the later Harry Potter books doesn't read like one. This book is a mixed Media Artists dream. It is filled with amazing and very peculiar vintage photos which the story has been cleverly woven around.
Well since Miss Peregrine home is in the woods and is basically a fairytale it seemed tailor made to be my subject for the theme of Into the Trees.

Well this is my first page. I wanted to present a simple page that looked like it was from an old book. I have tried to set up my theme by using a quote from the book. The quote reads "I had just come to accept that my life would be ordinary when extraordinary things began to happen"
Ransom Riggs

The next page again I tried to keep simple. The text on this page is a portion of the story in my own words.
The text reads:
All through my childhood my Grandfather would tell me incredible tales about

his life in a Welsh children’s home. This was an enchanted place designed to keep
very special children safe from monsters. It was located on an island where the
sun shines everyday and nobody ever gets sick or ages. I believed every one of
his fantastic tales until the expected adult skepticism took hold, to my parent’s
relief. This new found skepticism lasted until my grandfather was murdered by
something I can only describe as a monster. But I didn’t believe in monsters!
Monsters were just fairy tales like my grandfather’s stories. But when this letter
and pictures were found in my grandfather’s possessions my skepticism started to
waver and I knew that I needed to find the truth .

To this page I added the letter, a picture of Miss Peregrine and the little Angel. These are both my own vintage photos that I have been collecting forever.

The page ends with a line of text that sets up the next spread. It reads: My search for truth led me to the Welsh Island from my grandfather’s stories and into the trees…

Here are both sides of the spread. Unfortunately the pages were too large to get a picture of the entire spread in one photo. But in the first shot you can see Miss Peregrines Home in the back ground and some "peculiars" in the foreground. The next page shows more "peculiars". These pictures are a mix of my own collected photos and unusual photos that I found on the web. Please note that I have made my own peculiars and not the ones described and pictured in the book. As for the peculiars there are: scary clown person, Siamese identical twins, Boy with the removable head, Mouse girl and her dog friend, stone face girl on roller skates with balloon baby on a string. This spread is totally pieced together from different images. The trees, bushes and grass are all 3-D effects created with Golden's light molding paste. The collage was then painted to pull it together and make it one piece of art.

The texts reads: The trees began to thin and I came upon a clearing filled with green grass and a house. This was it! The house from my grandfather’s stories just as he described it! Miss Peregrine’s home for Peculiar Children.

I end my submission for Lisa's theme with two more peculiars and another quote directly from the book:

"I used to dream about escaping my ordinary life, but my life was never ordinary. I had simply failed to notice how extraordinary it was. "
Ransom Riggs

I thought this quote was particularly true about life. How many times have we all ignored the small details of our lives? If we just look closer we will find that those small "seemingly" ordinary things are extraordinary.

Over and out until my next post.

ABC round robin swap #2-first exchange

2012-01-11T13:14:00.000-08:00

Greetings Everyone!

I'm sure that you are all waiting breathlessly to know whether or not our local Altered Books Club was really going to participate in another Round Robin Swap. The answer is Yes! However the group is a little smaller this time around with 6 participants instead of 11 with the addition of a totally new member to the group.
Since many of you seemed to enjoy the last glimpse into our swap I thought that I might blog about this one as well.
For swap #1 I received Maureen's book, the theme of which was :Romance. EEKKK! was my reaction. One of the most difficult things about this theme for me was distilling it down into something manageable. There's so much you could do with the theme of Romance. To start the swap off I wanted to so something uniquely me-but unexpected. That meant no romantic skulls-that would have been just too easy. And quite frankly the entire group was sure that I would do that. Instead I decided to deal with my hypocrisy. Yes I am a hypocrite. Sounds like an AA meeting doesn't it. Why do I say this you ask? Because of course I would never stoop to reading bodice rippers and other such trash. And its true that I generally don't read that type of book. They contain just a touch too much romance for me. But as I got to looking around at all my favorite books and movies I realized that most of them deal with the subject of romance. In fact I have and entire book of nothing but romantic movies. Movies that my husband likes to call woman trash (even though you will very often find his butt parked on the couch watching them with me!) I won't even go into the number of times I have watched these movies or reread the books. Suffice it to say that I practically know them all by heart!
After admitting my weakness I was ready to move on and suddenly I knew what I wanted to add in my spread or spreads as it turned out. I decided to stay with a very simple paper collage style for this one.

One common theme in all of the movies and books I mentioned is that they might as well start out: Once upon a time. You can see my Once upon a time collage above. I included one of my favorite Preraphelite images called The Bride. I thought her appropriate.

Of course every Romance should end with Happily Ever After. In this collage I made a little niche. Don't be fooled not only am I Jonesing for Happily Ever After...

What I am really waiting for in every book and movie is " The Kiss". In the niche I have created a shrine to the kiss. I sculpted a small iconic glass slipper and put it in there as well.

But I didn't stop there! In my second spread I show a beautiful princess dreaming (that's of course what I wanted to be as a child until reality imposed itself on me) and on the other is another kiss (sigh) with a pocket containing two booklets listing a few of my favorite romantic movies and books. Just in case the others have missed some of them of course!

And just in case some of the group was a little too serious or panting too heavily, I decided to inject my own personal bit of humour.

Click on this picture to enlarge it and you will see that this woman just does not look comfortable on that horse. I believe that this is because she is dealing with an age old woman's problem. Come on guys it couldn't have been much different back then!

Connie-over and out until next time!

A Big fat Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T12:29:00.000-08:00

Well this was the scene out at Maverick's Beach this morning. Glorious isn't it?

I want to take this opportunity to give thanks for every person that has taken my classes, everyone that has purchased my art and everyone that reads this blog. Without you I would not be living my dream. So Thank you for my dream.

I also want to say a great big fat non politically correct Merry Christmas! And as Mister Dickens so aptly put it " God bless us everyone".

Results for Texture in a Big Way

2011-12-15T11:39:00.000-08:00

Greetings Everyone!

My last class for the year was this past weekend and I am on cloud nine. It was my first weekend workshop called Texture in a Big Way . It was a small class but a mighty one. The pieces created were so beautiful that I had to blog about them. You can see one of the finished pieces above. It was created using the artists own photo from Paris and several different texture mediums. This artist usually creates in vivid colors so using such a sedate palette was a definite departure from her norm. But I am sure that you will all agree that the results are stunning. You can see a 3 step process below by the same artist.

The finished Product

And here is second series of in progress pics by another artist in the class :

Please note that this piece is still in progress and I will try to post the finished product at a later date.

Both of these students had expressed to me at the beginning of the weekend that they didn't feel like real artists. That they had never created any work that felt truly original. If this was true I do not believe it is true now. I think that the works above are stunning and very original to the individual artists. From the rough ancient winged Nike at the top of the page to the more graphic Toulouse Latrec poster feel to the serene nature inspired Tree of Ages piece at the bottom. These "students" did not merely follow my instruction. They have reached much deeper inside their hearts, minds and souls. This was my real purpose in designing this class. I read emotion in each of these pieces like I am reading a book. Yet each artist has still allowed me to interpret each piece in my own fashion and draw my own conclusion as to their meanings. Isn't this the very essence of what an artist does?
What should these "students" call themselves but Artists?

I want to thank these artists for taking my workshop and allowing me to be part of their artistic achievement.

Art Sale at the Wind Warrior studio!

2011-12-09T11:05:00.000-08:00

Greetings everyone!

Ok how many of you are still looking for Christmas gifts? For all of you coastside people, do you really want to brave the traffic and go to a crowded mall? Well I have found another chance for you to find that perfect item and still stay on the coast! Some of my fellow artists from the Colony of Coastside Artists group will be at the Wind Warrior Energy Center in Moss Beach on Saturday from 10am to 4:00pm. Here's another chance to find that unique hand made item at excellent prices and support some excellent local artists in the process.
The Wind Warrior Energy center is located of California and Highway One in Moss Beach. The center is right next to Harmony Road Music.
So go on down and take a look!

Texture in a Big Way

2011-12-04T22:33:00.000-08:00

Greetings Everyone!

With a successful Open Studio and participation in a very wonderful Farallone View Holiday Bazaar behind me, I can now focus on my very first weekend workshop: Texture in a Big Way.

The students in this class are going to work on three goals
To create a much larger piece of art than they might normally create. The piece must be 11 x 14 or larger.
To combine two or more textures with a collage image.
To practice using texture and color to imbue emotion and a sense of the artist's personal history with the image selected.

I love to work with texture. But it can be tricky combining more than one especially when you add a collage image as well. In the piece above you can find crackle paste, coarse pumice and fine pumice gels surrounding the collage image. I use texture as an alternative to adding alot of layers or found objects to collage. However just because I have added complicated texture doesn't mean that I can't add found objects as well. In fact found objects are a very tactile way to impart emotion and experience into your collage and luckily many of the modern texture mediums are sturdy enough to embed your found objects directly into the texture. Again if you click on the picture above and magnify it you may see that I've added a few rusty items from the place that I originally took this picture. Below you can see another large collage in my tree series.

If you are interested in this class I still have a couple of spots left. Here are the particulars about this class:

Saturday December 10th and Sunday December 11th ++++++Weekend Workshop+++++

Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Texture in a Big Way
Description: In this advanced class we will have two objectives:
To combine at least two textures.
To combine texture and collage on a surface no smaller than 11 x 14.
Note this is a 2 day workshop. If you choose to combine more than two textures or to use crackle paste a third day may be needed. This can be scheduled separately at a time of your choosing provided that the studio is available.
This workshop is only for advanced collage artists that have had experience using texture mediums. Class size will be kept to a minimum so that we can work through any problems or questions on a one in one basis.
Items to bring: Please bring a stretched canvas, canvas board or other rigid substrate that is 11 x 14 or larger, scissors, paintbrushes and a large image of your choice. I will bring all other supplies. Please note that if you intend to use crackle paste you must bring either canvas board or another rigid surface a stretched canvas will not do. You may also bring a second large surface if you would like to start another collage while the texture mediums are drying.
Time: 10:00 to 4:00pm both days: there will be a one hour lunch break at 12:30 both days. Please bring a lunch.
Fee: $100.00 for two or three sessions.
Class size: 4 people max.
To sign up for this class please email me at connie@isbjorn.com

My studio is located at 103-1 Harvard in Princeton by the Sea.

2011-11-17T11:18:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

I am pleased to invite you to the annual Colony of Coastside Artists Open Studios event this weekend. I will be participating along with 22 incredible artists in 12 different studio locations up and down the coast! I will be selling collage and assemblage items in all price ranges for those looking for unique one of a kind Christmas gifts.

I will be offering my art at B.L. Photography at 1168 Date St. Montara from 11:00 to 4:00pm Saturday the 19th and Sunday the 20th.

Come and make a day of it visiting 12 different locations noshing and imbibing as you go. Yes each location will offer delectable treats to sample while perusing some of the best art here on the coast. Not only that but you will be able to purchase directly from the artists right in the studio setting. This gives you the rare opportunity to visit with them and find out more about their art.

So take a rare day for yourself to relax and unwind. I promise that you will rediscover a little Holiday cheer amongst other artful souls this weekend.

See you this weekend!

Connie

P.S: please click on each picture to see a larger view especially on the map below!

Class schedule through December

2011-11-11T11:21:00.000-08:00

Greetings Everyone!

Yes its time to publish my teaching and events schedule for the next month and a half. Its starts this Sunday with two old classes that I'm reviving by popular request. Please note that I will be participating in the Colony of Coastside artists open studio event next Saturday and Sunday November 19th and 20th. I will be offering for sale some of my larger pieces of collage and assemblage. Also on Saturday December 3rd I will be participating in the Farallone view holiday bazaar. This will be in support of the school as well as myself.
At Farallone View I will be offering many smaller items like mini collages and altoid tin assemblages as well as favorites like dominos and shrink plastic jewelry. On December 10th and 11th I will be offering a brand new class called Texture in a Big Way. For all my advanced texture/collage students this is the class you have been waiting for and even dreading for some time now. We not only will combine textures but we will do this on a canvas at least 11 x 14 or larger! You can view one of my large collage samples above.

Please also note that on December 3rd Ingrid Pomeroy will be teaching a new class called Steampunk Christmas! Wow I wonder what that looks like. On the 4th Pat Sheldon is going to teach all you knitters out there how to knit Christmas ornaments!

Here is the schedule:

Sunday November 13th Back to Back classes!

Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Puzzle Pins and Ornaments**** Back by popular demand ******
Class Description: Mix some puzzle pieces + shrink plastic images, drizzle with diamond Glaze and sprinkle with micro beads and charms and finish with jewelry findings, wire, charms and more beads and what do you get? Puzzle pins and Ornaments of course! Don’t believe me? Come find out how this strange assemblage of items can be turned into delectable jewelry and Christmas Ornaments.
Items to bring: your favorite pair of scissors and yourself.
Time: 10:00 to 1:00
Class Fee: $35.00
Maximum number of student: 4

Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: A world in a Matchbox
Class Description: Have you ever dreamed of finding a secret door, opening it and stepping into another world? Did you know that you can find this world in a matchbox?
In this project based class we will utilize paper towels, collage and assemblage to create our own worlds.
Matchbox worlds would also make very personal and special gifts to give for any occasion. Instead of sending a sick loved one a card, send them the world!
So open the door and step through to another world. Come and play!!!!!
Items to bring: Please bring any personal images or items that are small enough to fit into a matchbox. Please also bring scissors and small paintbrushes.
Time: 2:00 to 5:00pm
Fee: $35.00
Maximum # of students: 4
Get a $10.00 discount if you sign up for both classes! To sign up for either or both classes please email me at connie@isbjorn.com

Wednesday November 16th
ABC Club*****New swap starts*****!
6:00 to 9:00 pm
$10.00

Saturday November 19th and Sunday November 20th
Colony of Coastside Artists Open Studios
Time: 11:00 am to 4:00pm both days
Looking for that perfect Christmas gift? Here’s your chance to find it! Not only that, it’s your chance to view of the work of 23 different artists in 12 different locations noshing and nibbling as you go. This is a rare chance to really talk to the artists about their work and see just what goes into the creating of their superb works of art. Not only that it’s a perfect opportunity to support local artists. Save these dates and tell all your friends and loved ones. Make it a weekend event and have a blast!
Entry fee: None!

Saturday December 3rd
Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy
Class: Steampunk Christmas Paper Theater
Description: This class will definitely be a twist on Christmas. We will create a Steampunk Christmas paper theater using unique papers, images, embellishments and metal findings. You will come away with a one-of-kind Christmas work of art that you will be proud to display
Supplies to bring: All you need to bring are your favorite scissors and sweet tooth. Ingrid will also provide yummy sweets to get us into the holiday spirit.
Time: 12:30 to 4:30
Fee: $85.00
Class size: 4 students maximum
If you wish to sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com

Saturday December 3rd
Farallone View Holiday Bazaar
Here’s a great chance to buy that last minute Christmas gift and also benefit a local school. I will be attending this show with some of my smaller gift items domino's, shrink plastic , one of a kind mini canvas collage art–well who knows what I might bring! Come and check it out or just come by and say hello! Some of the Colony of Coastside artists will be there as well and that means unique quality art and reasonable prices.
Time: 9am to 2:00pm
Fee: free!

Sunday December 4th
Instructor: Patt Sheldon
Class: Patt's Non-traditional Knitted & Beaded Ornaments
Description: Learn to knit knitted beaded spheres for ornaments, decorations, or jewelry. We will make one Styrofoam ornament in class and kits will be available to make more at home or to transfer the knowledge to knitted jewelry. You must be an experienced knitter for this class.
Items to bring: Bring size 2 needles--double-point, circular, or straight will work (if you're a tight knitter, you might also bring size 3); beading needle if you have one, blunt-eye tapestry needle, small scissors.
Time: 12:30 - 3:30
Fee: $40 which includes materials for one ornament
Minimum 4 students; maximum 8.
If you wish to sign up for this class please email Patt at patt.matt@comcast.net

Saturday December 10th and Sunday December 11th ++++++Weekend Workshop+++++
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Texture in a Big Way
Description: In this advanced class we will have two objectives:
To combine at least two textures.
To combine texture and collage on a surface no smaller than 11 x 14.
Note this is a 2 day workshop. If you choose to combine more than two textures or to use crackle paste a third day may be needed. This can be scheduled separately at a time of your choosing provided that the studio is available.
This workshop is only for advanced collage artists that have had experience using texture mediums. Class size will be kept to a minimum so that we can work through any problems or questions on a one in one basis.
Items to bring: Please bring a stretched canvas, canvas board or other rigid substrate that is 11 x 14 or larger, scissors, paintbrushes and a large image of your choice. I will bring all other supplies. Please note that if you intend to use crackle paste you must bring either canvas board or another rigid surface a stretched canvas will not do.
Time: 10:00 to 4:00pm both days: there will be a one hour lunch break at 12:30 both days. Please bring a lunch.
Fee: $100.00 for two or three sessions.
Class size: 4 people max.
To sign up for this class please email me at connie@isbjorn.com

December 14th or 28st-Please note that the 21st is Hanukkah
ABC club
6:00 to 9:00 pm
$10.00
C.Andrews studio is located at 103-1 Harvard st, Princeton by the sea.

ABC dinner/pictures

2011-10-27T23:11:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone,

In the midst of the craziness of my packing, cleaning, showing, selling, packing,moving and unpacking there was one shining moment that helped me through it all. Last month our Altered Books club group decided to celebrate the completion of our first round robin swap. Basically it was our way of patting ourselves on the back for the actually finishing an 11month project. Yes I said 11 months!
This group is absolutely remarkable. With very few exceptions the artist growth that happened during the project was like nothing I've ever seen before. And the art in each book is amazing. Move over Stampington
I'm afraid we've got you beat!

This project with this group was a special moment in time. It was a time of great friendship. laughter, mutual interest and artist growth. Even now I look at my book with all the incredible art inside at least two to three times per week. Everytime I look at it I feel renewed and inspired. What can I say-these artists have left me in awe of the potential inside of every one of us.
Yes it was a very special 11 months. 11 months of memories that I shall treasure always.

Cheers everyone!

Trying to get back on track

2011-10-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone!

Vincent Van Skull and I are here to announce that I am once again bloggable. Unfortunately I have joined the very large homeless club in the state of California. Be that as it may I am safely installed in my new rented digs about 5 miles up the road in Montara. I have finally broken through the surface after at least 4 months underwater doing the whole cleaning the house, showing the house, packing the house, and then moving the house thing. It was so totally life consuming that now I am fighting to find my focus again and continue my art.

The current community that I'm living in is little more eclectic, a little colder and much foggier than the previous one. Here are some views from my morning rambles around the area:

Alpacas

Crows in the fog.

Large Banana Slugs.

wonderful garden gates.

real fall leaves.

Cool Mossy trees

I forgot what it was like to have to move out of a place in which I was comfortable and happy. Its strange-but I feel disoriented, depressed and dispossessed. I've been told that I have been very lucky to have found a nice if smaller place to live. Intellectually I know this is true. My landlord is wonderful, the people around me are nice, its a beautiful area full of intriguing homes and Alpacas. But this doesn't feel like luck. It feels like an essential part of me has been stolen and now there is a huge void. No what is truely lucky for me is that I can fill that void with my art. It is Art that I know will bring me focus again. It is my art that will pull me out of my present depression and through any tough times ahead.

I will never forget that for me ART = Survival.

My classes and events for the next three weeks!

2011-08-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome everyone!
I posted the C.Andrews studio schedule below but I did not get time to list the special events that I will be participating in for the month of August. I am pleased to announce that I will be participating in the Pescadero Art and Fun festival this month. This will be the first time to be a vendor in this event and I am really excited about it. I know that its going to be a blast! Here is my schedule for the next three weeks below:

Saturday August 13th

Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altered Cabinet Cards
Description: Don’t you love all those old cabinet card photos?
Using Collage, Rubber stamping, acrylic paints and various embellishments we will give discarded photos from 1800’s and 1900’s a second chance to be loved.
Items to bring: Please bring paintbrushes and scissors. Feel free to also bring any special charms, found objects or decorative rubber stamps and dye inks that you might be dying to use.
Time: 10:30 to 2:30
Fee: $45.00
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Sunday August 14th

Event: La Nebbia Art show
Where: la Nebbia Winery 12341 San Mateo Rd, HWY 92, Half Moon Bay
Art show featuring the Colony of Coastside Artists, there will also be wine tasting , food, Music, Picnicking and Bocce ball.
Time: 11:00-4:00 or 5:00
Fee: Free entry!

Saturday and Sunday August 20th and 21st

Event: Pescadero Art and Wine Festival
Where: Adjoining the IDES Hall off of Pescadero Rd.
2 day Art and Wine Festival featuring Art, Wine, Food and continuous Music all day long. To get more information go to: www.pescaderoartsandfunfestival.org/home
Time: 11:00 to 6:00
Fee: Free entry!

Saturday August 27th
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altered Books #3 ( Pockets)
Description: Don’t you just love finding that forgotten $20.00 bill in a coat pocket?
In this third class in the Altered Book Series we will learn two different techniques to add pockets to your Altered Book. And then the fun begins because now you have to fill them. Remember you can never have enough stuff!
Items to bring: Your altered books kit
Time: 10:30 to 2:00
Fee: 140.00 for the 5 class series or for returning students only $35.00 for the class.
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Sunday August 28th
Event: La Nebbia Art show
Where: la Nebbia Winery 12341 San Mateo Rd, HWY 92, Half Moon Bay
Art show featuring the Colony of Coastside Artists, there will also be wine tasting , food, Music, Picnicking and Bocce ball.
Time: 11:00-4:00 or 5:00
Fee: Free entry!

Yes I definitely am going to be busy the next three weeks! If you can't attend a class how about coming to one of the events listed above? Come and do some shopping, drink some wine, listen to the music and drop by my booth and say hello.

See you soon!

C.Andrews Studio August events and classes

2011-08-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

Welcome Everyone!

I hope you are all having a great summer. As most of you already know I have been a bit preoccupied with this whole house selling thing. Keeping the house spotless all the time and ready to show is absolute murder. As you can imagine with two dogs keeping things clean keeps me busy. However I finally found a little time to post the Studio schedule for the month and to let you all know about a couple of other events that I am going to be attending as an artist.

Above you can view the August calendar. If you click on the image you get a larger view. Here are the class details and samples below.

C.Andrews Studio

August 2011 classes and events

Saturday August 6th
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altered Books #2
Description: In this second altered book class we will experiment with creating windows and doors. Windows and doors are a dramatic way to present your theme. They are interactive and draw the viewer’s eye deeper into the art. So come and add a little mystery and magic to you altered book by adding windows and doors.
Kit items to bring: Paintbrushes, Scissors, Gel Medium, Gesso, cutting mat and xacto knife and any images or personal elements that you would like to use in your book.
Time: 10:30 to 2:30
Fee: 140.00 for the 5 class series or for returning students $35.00
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Friday August 12th
Scrapbook Night at the Studio
Hey Scrapbookers! Back by popular demand is a Friday Night crop. Come and join the fun and get caught up! Join Cindy McCool & Maureen Barton as they crop till they drop and rumor has it that several Paris books will be worked on for some time to come. We have missed our little socials, so come on down. Space is limited to 6 so reserve early and put this on your calendar for the 2nd Friday of the Month until further notice."
Time: 6:00pm to 10:00-12:00
Cost $10.00
To reserve your spot please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com.

Saturday August 13th
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altered Cabinet Cards
Description: Don’t you love all those old cabinet card photos?
Using Collage, Rubberstamping, acrylic paints and various embellishments we will give discarded photos from 1800’s and 1900’s a second chance to be loved.
Items to bring: Please bring paintbrushes and scissors. Feel free to also bring any special charms, found objects or decorative rubber stamps and dye inks that you might be dying to use.
Time: 10:30 to 2:30
Fee: $45.00
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Wednesday August 17th
Altered Books Club
Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Fee: $10.00 per person

Friday August 19th
Instructor: Gayton Arrigotti
Class: Cold Connections
Description: Learn how to make rivets and join multi layered mixed metals! Riveting is a cold joining method, no heat is applied during the process. This is a useful skill for many jewelry makers, whether hobbyists or professionals because it is inexpensive and a relatively easy technique which provides a method of creating jewelry pieces with multiple dimensions without soldering. The design can be your own or a project piece for the purpose of learning the skills taught.
Time: 9:30 to 3:00
Fee: $105.00 + $25.00 materials fee.
To sign up for this class please email Gayton at: wishing@comcast.net

Saturday August 20th
Instructor: Maria Ontiveros
Class #1: Smash Journal
Description: Smash Journals are the hottest new thing. They're perfect for collecting all the little things of your life that you want to remember. Check out this link to learn about them and then come down to the studio to make your own. We'll start by creating a journal and then decorate the pages with stamps and embellishments appropriate for smash journal pages. This fun class is appropriate for all ages and skill levels.
Time: 10:00 a.m. - noon.
Fee: $30.00

Class #2: Art Journal Workshop: Finish those Pages!
Description: In this workshop, we'll focus on finishing some pages in your art journal. We'll combine your existing backgrounds, embellishments and supplies with my composition techniques and journaling prompts to create pages you'll love.
Items to bring: Bring your journal(s), scissors, adhesives, paints (or other colorants), a journaling pen and assorted embellishments (although I will have some to purchase and share). To get the most out of our time together, you should have a few unfinished backgrounds in your journal. If not, come a half hour early and I'll help you create them.
For intermediate art journaling students or beginners with instructor's permission. Class price includes three new collage sheets!
Time: 1:00-5:00.
Fee: $25.00
If you wish to sign up for either or both classes please email Maria at: mailto:hrinda1961@yahoo.com.

Thursday August 25th
Instructor: Cindy McCool
Class: Sympathy/Grateful and all occasion cards
Description: When you need it do you have the right card or do you have to make a quick trip to the store and spend upwards of $5.00 to get one that says the right thing for the right occasion? If so then this class is for you. This month you will complete 3 to 5 cards for all occasions. Let's face it, your friends want to hear from you and a special handmade card received in the mail will always brighten their day.
Items to bring: basic tool kit, scissors, adhesives and a journaling pen all other materials will be provided.
Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm
Fee: $25.00
To sign up for this class please email Cindy at mailto:cindy@mccoolmgt.com

Saturday August 27th: Meet at La Piazza
Instructor: Maria Ontiveros
Class: Photo Walk in the Half Moon Bay Cemetery.
Description: Meet at La Piazza (corner of Main Street and Miramontes) for a one hour guided photo walk in a local cemetery. We'll focus on lighting and perspective in shooting cemetery photographs and outdoor portraits. Maria will be available to answer your questions about appropriate camera settings and how they will impact your finished photograph. Afterward, we'll go back to La Piazza to review the morning's photographs.
Items to bring: your digital camera (point and shoot or DSLR).
Time: 9:00 am- 11am
Fee: $20.00
If you wish to sign up for class please email Maria at rinda1961@yahoo.com.

Sunday August 28th
Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy
Class: Pearl Girlz
Description: Back by popular demand! I am teaching my “Pearl Girlz” class. So, if you missed last summer’s class, here’s your chance! We will be decorating oyster shells with vintage images of bathing beauties, lots of beautiful shells, beads, moss, sand, and more. What a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon!
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Class Fee: $65.00 (Includes some yummy sweets!)
To sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com

Also offered at the studio

Private studio time– This is for artists and art groups looking to rent studio space to work or to get together during the week-the times and fees are to be arranged on an individual basis. If you are interested in private studio time please email me at connie@isbjorn.com.

Private Lessons: If you are interested in private lessons or make up lessons I am available on Wednesday and Thursday during the week. Also I am available to teach on Saturdays when there are no classes in the studio. Please email me at connie@isbjorn.com to discuss.

Open Studio- Because of lack of use Open studio Friday is closed for Private studio or classes. Possible open studio dates for the month of August will be on the following : August 14th, August 21st . Please make arrangements at least 24 hours in advance if you would like to use the studio as I will be unavailable on these dates above. Please email me at connie@isbjorn.com to discuss.

C.Andrews studio is located at 103-1 Harvard st, Princeton by the sea. If you need directions please email me at connie@isbjorn.com.

Altered Books class this weekend/Sunday Art Faire at the Winery

2011-07-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone,

Late at the bat here as usual these days. Losing my home has me a little distracted right now. So I appologize. The potential move has made me understand that I do not do well as an artist while my surroundings are in turmoil. I can barely concentrate on art right now to tell you the truth. And having people in your home looking at it while you are not there is not a comfortable feeling. It's really wierding me out! I would like to thank all the people that emailed me to show support. Fully half of those that emailed are in similar situations or have already gone through it. Not that it makes me feel better about any of our situations but it does make me feel less alone. So Thank you.
Anyway I am now going to try to pull my thoughts together long enough for the weekend announcements.

This Saturday I will be starting my altered book series. It runs twice per month for 5 sessions. The cost for new students is discounted at $140.00 for all 5 classes. If you have already taken this class and would like to participate again the cost is $50.00/5 classes just to cover my supplies. Also the previous students can also attend any class they missed the first time around for the original price of $35.00. But please email me a week in advance so that I can get your materials together. Here are the details as well as some class samples.

Saturday July 23rd

Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altered Books (series of 5 classes)
Description: Have you ever heard the quotation “so many books so little time”? It’s never truer than when talking altered books! So what is an altered book? An altered book is creative reuse at its best. Think of all those unwanted books ready to be thrown away. Why waste them when you can turn them into works of art!
In this first class in the altered book series we will focus on what book to choose and where to find it, content, how to prepare and strengthen pages, what materials can be used and finally a full collage spread.
In this series of classes students will gradually build up an altered books “kit” of favorite supplies that will be handy for use at any time. This “kit” should be brought to every class.
Items to bring: First kit items to bring: Paint brushes, scissors and gel medium if you have it.
Time: 10:30 to 2:00
Fee: 140.00 for the 5 class series
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

On Sunday The Colony of Coastside Artists will again be at the La Nebbia Winery Art Faire. La Nebbia Winery is located right on 12341 San Mateo Rd. just off of HIghway 92 in Half Moon Bay. There will be wine, music, food and of course one of a kind shopping! The event starts at about 11:00-12:00 until 5:00pm. Come on by and say hello and take a gander at some of the best art on the coast. Here's a sampling of some of the items I will have for sale.

Collage

Mermaids under Glass

Bottled spirits and more!

Well I guess that its for now folks! So as Spock used to say:

July calendar-finally!

2011-07-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone!
Yes I am finally posting after a two week hiatus. What have I been doing the last two week you might ask?
I have been cleaning and packing up my house preparing to put it on the market for sale. Yes I am one more California soon to be homeless in our "summer of recovery".
Eventhough I might not have a home I am determined to keep the studio. So I am finally posting the July schedule. I must appologize to all my blog readers and the others instructors at the studio for not posting earlier but I have found the last two weeks a little daunting.

So here is the Studio schedule minus a couple of weeks . And again I appologize.

Saturday July 16th

Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altered Cabinet Cards
Description: Don’t you love all those old cabinet card photos?
Using Collage, Rubberstamping, acrylic paints and various embellishments we will give discarded photos from 1800’s and 1900’s a second chance to be loved.
Items to bring: Please bring paintbrushes and scissors. Feel free to also bring any special charms, found objects or decorative rubber stamps and dye inks that you might be dying to use.
Time: 10:30 to 2:00
Fee: $45.00
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Sunday July 17th
Open studio
11:00 to 5:00
$10.00

Wednesday July 20th
Altered Books Club
Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Fee: $10.00 per person

Saturday July 23rd
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altered Books (series of 5 classes)
Description: Have you ever heard the quotation “so many books so little time”? It’s never truer than when talking altered books! So what is an altered book? An altered book is creative reuse at its best. Think of all those unwanted books ready to be thrown away. Why waste them when you can turn them into works of art!
In this first class in the altered book series we will focus on what book to choose and where to find it, content, how to prepare and strengthen pages, what materials can be used and finally a full collage spread.
In this series of classes students will gradually build up an altered books “kit” of favorite supplies that will be handy for use at any time. This “kit” should be brought to every class.
Items to bring: First kit items to bring: Paint brushes, scissors and gel medium.
Time: 10:30 to 2:00
Fee: 140.00 for the 5 class series
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Sunday July 24th
Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy
Class: Pearl Girlz
Description: Back by popular demand! I am teaching my “Pearl Girlz” class. So, if you missed last summer’s class, here’s your chance! We will be decorating oyster shells with vintage images of bathing beauties, lots of beautiful shells, beads, moss, sand, and more. What a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon!
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Class Fee: $65.00 (Includes some yummy sweets!)
To sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com

Thursday July 28th
Instructor: Cindy McCool
Class: Birthday/all occasion cards
Description: When you need it do you have the right card or do you have to make a quick trip to the store and spend upwards of $5.00 to get one that says the right thing for the right occasion? If so then this class is for you. This month you will complete 3 to 5 cards for all occasions. Let's face it, your friends want to hear from you and a special handmade card received in the mail will always brighten their day.
Items to bring: basic tool kit, scissors, adhesives and a journaling pen all other materials will be provided.
Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm
Fee: $25.00
To sign up for this class please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com.

Saturday July 30th
Open studio
11:00 to 5:00
$10.00 per person

Sunday July 31st
Instructor: Gayton Arrigotti
Class: Cold Connections
Description: Learn how to make rivets and join multi layered mixed metals! Riveting is a cold joining method, no heat is applied during the process. This is a useful skill for many jewelry makers, whether hobbyists or professionals because it is inexpensive and a relatively easy technique which provides a method of creating jewelry pieces with multiple dimensions without soldering. The design can be your own or a project piece for the purpose of learning the skills taught.
Time: 9:30 to 3:00
Fee: $105.00 + $25.00 materials fee.
To sign up for this class please email Gayton at: wishing@comcast.net

Also offered at the studio

Private studio time– This is for artists and art groups looking to rent studio space to work or to get together during the week-the times and fees are to be arranged on an individual basis. If you are interested in private studio time please email me at connie@isbjorn.com.

Private Lessons: If you are interested in private lessons I am available on Wednesday, Thursday during the week. Also I am available to teach make up classes and private classes on Saturdays when there are no classes in the studio. Please email me at connie@isbjorn.com to discuss.

Studio Membership- Want to come to all the open studios and Altered Books club? Why not pay for a monthly membership? Monthly membership is only $30.00 per month. For this price you will be able to go to any open studio (at least 4 per month) and altered book Club. This is a savings of at least $20.00 to $50.00 per month! Studio membership must be paid by the second Friday of the month.

Open Studio- This is studio time open to everyone for only $10.00 per day. Open studios is available most Fridays and on the weekends when no classes are being offered. Please note that to use the studio you must arrange this with me in advance. Just email me at connie@isbjorn.com and let me know you would like to use it. Open studio for the month of July will be on the following dates: July1st, July 8th, July 15th, July 17th,July 22nd, July 29th, July 30th .

C.Andrews studio is located at 103-1 Harvard st. Princeton-by-the-sea. Please email me at connie@isbjorn.com if you need directions.

Art Faire this Sunday!

2011-06-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone!
This sunday I will be participating in my first Art Faire here on the coast. The art faire will be at La Nebbia winery off of highway 92 from Noon to 5:00. I know right now you are saying to yourself " just one more Art faire-so what-big deal. First of all there will be at least 15 different artists from the Colony of Coastside Artists participating. We will be offering some of the best art on the coast ranging from collage, assemblage,jewelry,watercolors, fiber arts, photography,succulent designs,glass and more. Second at the winery you can also sample the latest vintages from La Nebbia, stroll the gardens, play bocce ball, eat and shop all while accompied to music This sunday Stan Erhart will be playing the sounds of blues rock and soul. So you see there will be something there for everyone!
You've been working hard all week why not come to La Nebbia? It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the world around you.

La Nebbia is located at 12341 San mateo Rd off of Highway 92 in Half Moon Bay. You will find plenty of parking around the back of the winery!

Amazing Mermaids under Glass

2011-06-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone,

On Saturday most of the students that attended Mermaids Under Glass chose to finish their pieces. I just had to show everyone. Their work is stunning and the pieces are truly amazing. Just click on each image if you want a close up. Above you can see Jolene's piece. I love the Blue and purple center surrounded by Crimson and Nickel Azo Gold. Its positively yummy.

Here you can see a close up of the interior

This is Cindy's piece. Again I love the pink center. Also take a look at the shell the coloring and the wire work is absolutely beautiful. I thought that Cindy used the shape of the silver dish to maximum advantage in this piece. It all works together beautifully.

Here's a close up of the beautiful pink center and the shell work.

Here is Maureen's piece. Again I love the teal and turquoise centers. They really show off the images to the max. This triple decker piece is an amazing show piece. I love the use of the beaded wire to pull the separate pieces together. In fact I think its stunning.

Here is a close up of the top piece. Maureen has added little seed pearls. They look like seafoam to me. Just beautiful.

This is Lisa's work. Look closely at the intricate and incredible shell work on this piece. Lisa is a master at small detail work. Again I really love the center image set off with the nickel azo gold and crimson color. The intricacy of this piece reminds me of a Roman Mosaic. I also love the addition of the mermaid bronze piece at the top.

You've got to check out a close up of Lisa's incredible shell work.

More amazing works of art from some very talented artists!

Altoid Tin shrines

2011-06-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone!
I had a wonderful group of students on Saturday for my Altoid tin shrine class and I just had to show you all some of their work. You can see one of the covers above with a dainty beautiful dancer. She is very concerned about aggressive females.

This fairy tin is incredible! Its a whole little world. I love the fairy on the bottom of the top tin gazing into the water in tin below. This is an incredibly creative use of the spaces inside the tin!

And here's a close up of the fairies. Click on the picture to see a larger version.

And look at the beautiful mermaids. Who can resist them?

Aren't these tins incredible?

Putting bad Art night to rest/Sizzlin Sunday tomorrow at La Nebbia

2011-06-11T20:56:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone!

I haven't posted this week because I wanted to give those that wanted to a chance to comment on my Bad Art night thoughts. Thank you all of you for weighing in on this subject-I really appreciate it. You must understand I am not against kindred spirits getting together, experimenting, sharing ideas and having fun. I'm all for that. Its the best way to learn and to move forward in your art. I only dislike the 'bad " connotation. One person commented that it was only a word. I respectfully disagree. Words matter. They mean something. And whether you know it or not the word bad in association with the art created affects the artist. I know this is true because I see this all the time in my classes as I struggle to help my students declare that they are good artists and that their work has worth. A comment was made that it seemed to help the people that come to bad art night. Seemed? will these people sell their bad art? Will they give their bad art to family or friends? Its not the bad art that is helping them it the experimentation and the exchange of ideas. As long as these people think of the products of their experimentation as not mattering because they only created this at bad art night then how can they gain the confidence in themselves as artists. As an art teacher of almost 10 years the most important thing to me is that my students gain the confidence and knowledge to walk up to me and say " I am an artist and my work is good. I am an artist and my work has worth. "
And Michelle I too wish that you lived closer so that you could take my classes.

But enough for now about Bad art. I am pleased to announce that tomorrow will be another Sizzlin Sunday at La Nebbia Winery. What is Sizzlin Sunday you ask? Every 2nd and 4th Sunday until the end of September La Nebbia will be hosting wine tasting, live music and some very Good Art from the Colony of Coastside Artists. There is going to be some fantastic art tomorrow so why not come down and show your support. You never know what incredible treasure is just waiting for you! Its the perfect place to find that special gift for a loved one.

La Nebbia Winery on your at 12341 San Mateo Rd just off of Highway 92 as you are coming into Half Moon Bay. It starts at 11:00 tomorrow.

Bad Art Night-Some thoughts

2011-06-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone,

Since I'm going to have a little extra time this summer-I will not be traveling to teach. I thought that I would share a few thoughts about Art and other sundries from time to time. Some of what I am going to say will most likely not win me friends. Many will not really read what I have to say they will just "assume". I most likely will get the title of negative, snob or uptight. My opinions might even lose me some students. So be it. It is time for me to speak up about some things I see and a few thoughts I have.
This is my blog and these are my opinions only. You of course are entitled to you own.

Last year I joined a local group of artists. This is a wonderful group of people, friendly and very talented. Several of the members have gone to the latest Art fad "Bad Art Night". I have heard about this before from other friends and students of mine that have participated. When I first heard the name "Bad Art Night" it has truly bothered me-but I couldn't put a finger on why. Yesterday the reasons finally dawned on me.

Yes I have to admit that it bothers me that people are going to someones house to create bad art instead of supporting my small studio to create good art. That is rather a depressing idea. And my small studio cannot compete in terms of space or money.  So I must let this disappointment go.  When I push past my petty hurts and see through to what really bothers me it's the concept of BAD ART.

When did deliberately trying to create something bad become a good thing? Don't we already experience enough bad things in life? Bad politics, bad economy, bad education, services completed poorly, bad products and bad people that want to harm you and on, and on and on. Deliberately creating bad art does not "free" you-it locks you into the idea of creating something that you and everyone around you considers substandard.  It locks you into all the negative connotations that are associated with the word "BAD". Its a cheapening of your art and Art in general. You say Bad is just a word and what we are really trying to do is play with new ideas and new techniques. Yes Bad is just a word but words matter. Would you let your children do bad work in school? Would you want a roofer to give you a bad roof? Is it ok for your vital computer services to be bad?
Yes you should play in your art.  Experiment with new concepts, new techniques, new forms of art. As we all know this is not easy. But the ability and permission to play comes from within. It takes time. It takes effort. It takes confidence. You cannot become self confident by creating something you consider bad or substandard. One of the things we consistently do in my studio and classes is to work on giving ourselves permission to play. I take pride in the fact that I have many students that I have helped to find the "play" within. I take pride in the fact that I can now sometimes find the play within myself.
The concept of Bad Art is very subjective. Just because you are experimenting with something new it doesn't mean that the result is Bad. Mistakes usually end up being very good art because you've finally gotten out of your own way and let a tiny piece of your heart and soul show to the world.
Guys-Art is not mainstream. By allowing yourself to create "Bad" art you are cheapening your talent, bringing it down to an everyday level. There will always be people in the world that consider Art unimportant. It is the artists job to educate these people. To make them see and understand your art. How can you do this if you are creating art you do not think of as good?   You've been given the gift of art. Revel in it! Art is love, hate, joy. Be joyful and create your good art.
One last point: Bad Art night is not Art, its a social gathering. What's wrong with a social gathering? Nothing. But why not gather in the name of good art or Heart and Soul night or something with positive overtones?

There is one thing that I can assure you of. At my studio and classes we will never ever strive to create bad art. We will always strive to create good art through shared ideas, friendship, fun, laughter, chocolate, new techniques, play, self awareness, and sometimes a little wine.

And that's my opinion- for what its worth.

June classes at C.Andrews Studio!

2011-06-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

I know its been awhile since my last blog. And what have I been doing you ask? I have been making product for the La Nebbia Art and Wine festivals that will be taking place every 2nd and 4th Sunday of June, July, August and September. But more about these shows later. What I most wanted to do is to post the C.Andrew Studio schedule of classes for June. Because of my attendance at the Sunday festivals I will only be teaching at the studio for the summer. We have another great line up of classes at the studio for June. Just take a look!

C.Andrews Studio

June 2011 classes and events

Saturday June 4th
Open studio
Time: 11:00 to 5:00pm
Fee: $10.00 for the entire day

Sunday June 5th
Instructor: Maria Ontiveros
Class: Altered Houses I and II
Description: Altered Houses I: Introduction. Learn how to apply principles of collage to altered surfaces and end up with a beautifully completed altered house. Appropriate for beginners and lots of fun for continuing students. Bring scissors and a wet adhesive (glue, get medium, etc.). All other supplies provided, but feel free to bring collage images and embellishments if you have them. This class is perfect for children (10 years and older, with an adult partner) or teenagers and can be used to create a teacher, coach or friendship gift for the end of the year.
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Fee: $30.

Altered Houses II: Vintage Heritage House. Turn family photos into a treasured art piece or perfect Father's Day gift. Using principles of collage and vintage elements, we'll create a house (or two) that features your family or heritage photos.
Items to bring: Bring scissors, a wet adhesive (glue, gel medium, etc.), any favorite embellishments and color copies of family/heritage photos (make sure they are color-fast). All other supplies provided.
Time 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Fee: $30.

Sign up for both classes and pay only $55. An additional $5 discount for new students or for people who sign up in groups of two or more.
To sign up for this class please email Maria at: rinda1961@yahoo.com

Friday June 10th
Scrapbook Night at the Studio
Hey Scrapbookers! Back by popular demand is a Friday Night crop. Come and join the fun and get caught up! Join Cindy McCool & Maureen Barton as they crop till they drop and rumor has it that several Paris books will be worked on for some time to come. We have missed our little socials, so come on down. Space is limited to 6 so reserve early and put this on your calendar for the 2nd Friday of the Month until further notice."
Cost $10.00
To reserve your spot please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com.

Saturday June 11th
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altoid Pocket Shrines
Description: Ever want to keep someone or something special close to your heart? How about that small very precious gift? Does it need a special place all its own? How about creating shrines to hold these special memories or gifts? In this class using collage and assemblage we will create these special places inside altoid tins. Your shrine can then be slipped into a pocket or purse to keep close to you at all times. Or it can be placed on a shelf as a special keepsake. Pocket Shrines also make great gifts to give to a loved one.
Items to bring: Scissors, Paintbrushes any special items small enough to fit into an altoid tin.
Time: 10:30am to 3:30pm Lunch break at 12:30
Fee: $45.00
Class Limit: 6
To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com.

Sunday June 12th
Instructor: Maria Ontiveros
Class: Finish those Pages!
Description: In this workshop, we'll focus on finishing some pages in your art journal. We'll combine your existing backgrounds, embellishments and supplies with my composition techniques and journaling prompts to create pages you'll love.
Items to bring: Bring your journal(s), scissors, adhesives, paints (or other colorants), a journaling pen and assorted embellishments (although I will have some to purchase and share). To get the most out of our time together, you should have at least four unfinished backgrounds in your journal. If not, plan to come an hour early and I'll help you create them.
For intermediate art journaling students or beginners with instructor's permission. Class price includes three new collage sheets.
Time: 12:30-4:30.
Fee: $30.
To sign up for this class please email Maria at: rinda1961@yahoo.com

Wednesday June 15th
Altered Books Club
Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Fee: $10.00 per person

Saturday June 18th
Open studio
Time: 11:00 to 5:00pm
Fee: $10.00 for the entire day

Saturday June 25th
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Assemblage: Mermaids under glass part 2
Description: In my first assemblage class we will combine decorative metal trays, glass pocket watch lenses, collage images, sea shells and acrylic paint to create a representational “mermaid”. This class will focus on the materials and logistics of “assembling” this unique creation. Please note that you have to have taken part one to attend this class.
Items to bring: Paintbrushes and scissors-all other materials will be supplied.
Time: 10:30 to 3:30 Lunch break at 12:30
Fee: $ 120.00 for both classes
Class Limit: 5
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Sunday June 26th
Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy
Class: Beeswax and clock glass solder class
Description: Back by popular demand-I am teaching a beeswax collage on canvas class, with an additional request for a soldered clock glass collage. Steampunk will be the theme. This combination class will make everyone happy. You know who you are! Soldering experience is required. I will provide all materials to create this unique art piece.
Items to bring: Please bring your favorite scissors and soldering iron
Time: 12:00 to 4:00
Fee: $75.00 (includes sweet treats)
Class Limit: 6
If you wish to sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com

Thursday June 30th
Instructor: Cindy McCool
Class: Birthday/all occasion cards
Description: When you need it do you have the right card or do you have to make a quick trip to the store and spend upwards of $5.00 to get one that says the right thing for the right occasion? If so then this class is for you. This month you will complete 5 cards for all occasions. Let's face it, your friends want to hear from you and a special handmade card received in the mail will always brighten their day.
Items to bring: basic tool kit, scissors, adhesives and a journaling pen all other materials will be provided.
Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm
Fee: $25.00
To sign up for this class please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com.

Also offered at the studio

Private studio time– This is for artists and art groups looking to rent studio space to work or to get together during the week-the times and fees are to be arranged on an individual basis. If you are interested in private studio time please email me at connie@isbjorn.com.

Private Lessons: If you are interested in private lessons I am available on Wednesday, Thursday during the week. Also I am available to teach make up classes and private classes on Saturdays when there are no classes in the studio. Please email me at connie@isbjorn.com to discuss.

Open Studio- This is studio time open to everyone for only $10.00 per day. Open studios is available most Fridays and on the weekends when no classes are being offered. Please note that to use the studio you must arrange this with me in advance. Just email me at connie@isbjorn.com and let me know you would like to use it. Open studio for the month of June will be on the following dates: June 3rd, June 4th, June 10th, June 17th, June 17th, June 18th, June 24th.

As you can see there is something for everyone at the studio. Come and Play!

C.Andrews studio is located at 103-1 Harvard, Princeton-by-the-Sea.

Evolution of a Mermaid

2011-05-16T10:32:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone!

I had an absolute blast teaching Saturday's class: Mermaids under Glass. I am presenting this project in two class sessions. Some I'm sure consider this unnecessary and will make the class too expensive. However I assure you that two classes are definately needed. Most of the first class was spent visualizing, drilling, sanding and otherwise prepping the piece. Still don't believe it? Well following I have included a couple of photos and steps taken to create Lisa's amazing assemblage.

Here you see the basic structure that Lisa has decided on. Two base pieces: One is a vintage crumb sweeper pan and the lower piece is a small candy dish. Lisa has done a great job matching two totally seperate base pieces. They both have wonderful open work like filigree around the edges.
We began by sanding each piece thoroughly to create the needed "tooth". This is the most tedious step but also one of the most important ones. Don't skip this step guys or your paint will not stay on the metal.
When you begin any assemblage you need to decide the basic structure of the piece and how it will be displayed. In this project all the pieces will be hung on the wall instead of free standing, Since it is to be hung holes have been drilled and picture hanging wire inserted into the holes. Lisa decided to connect the two base pieces together. To do this we drilled a hole in both pieces and screwed them together. Another option would have been to suspend one from the other in some fashion.
Next we prepped each piece with clear Gesso (Thank you Michael DeMeng!) and let it thoroughly cure.
Lisa then chose her Mermaid image. She altered the image to suit her, attached it to a mat board base and covered it with a glass lens. It was then glued onto the round metal dish.
Lisa then chose a base paint color and applied it. That base coat of paint was in turn covered with a protectant. You can see the result in the photo above. As you can see this is the start of a great assemblage.

In this photo Lisa has started the Victorian type shell work in a flower type design around the Mermaid, By this time the class was over but it was the perfect place to stop. This will allow the glue around the shell work to dry thoroughly and without the benefit of a heat gun. Warning-do not apply heat to the lens or you risk it cracking. Cracking-Bad. Also please remember that metal conducts heat. When Lisa resumes next month she can create the shell work she planned at the top of the piece and because its not as close to the lens she can risk a little heat gun time to speed up the drying.

Interested in seeing a finished product? Well come back next month and I will post the last steps and the incredible piece of art that I know this will be.

If you are interested in this class I will be teaching it again this Saturday the 21st at C.Andrews Studio. Here are the details:

Saturday May 21st/Saturday June 25th

Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Assemblage: Mermaids under glass
Description: In my first assemblage class we will combine decorative metal trays, glass pocket watch lenses, collage images, sea shells and acrylic paint to create a representational “mermaid”. This class will focus on the materials and logistics of “assembling” this unique creation. Please note that this class will run for two sessions a month apart.
Items to bring: Paintbrushes,scissors, and apron and any decorative items that you think you might want to add to your assemblage. All other materials will be supplied.
Time: 10:30 to 3:30 Lunch break at 12:30
Fee: $ 120.00 for both classes
Class Limit: 6
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

C. Andrews studio is located at 103-1 Harvard st. in Princeton-by-the-Sea.

New Art (Mermaids under Glass)

2011-05-11T10:35:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone,
This weekend I debut a new class: Mermaids under Glass. This will be my first real found object assemblage class. This class will focus on techniques and logistics of combining found objects into a unique work of Art all your own. This class will combine learning, fun and intensity. Here's my latest sample for your perusal.

If you are interested in this class here are the details of where I will be teaching this class this month.

Saturday May 14th /Saturday June 18th

Location: Art Max in Seaside
Class: Assemblage: Mermaids under glass
Description: In my first assemblage class we will combine decorative metal trays, glass pocket watch lenses, collage images, sea shells and acrylic paint to create a representational “mermaid”. This class will focus on the materials and logistics of “assembling” this unique creation. Please note that this class will run for two sessions a month apart.
Items to bring: Paintbrushes and scissors. Any found object you might want to include on your piece. All other material will be supplied.
Time: 11:00 to 4:00 Lunch break at 1:00
Fee: $ 120.00 for both classes
Class Limit: 6
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Saturday May 21st/Saturday June 25th

Instructor: Connie Andrews
Where: C.Andrews Studio
Class: Assemblage: Mermaids under glass
Description: In my first assemblage class we will combine decorative metal trays, glass pocket watch lenses, collage images, sea shells and acrylic paint to create a representational “mermaid”. This class will focus on the materials and logistics of “assembling” this unique creation. Please note that this class will run for two sessions a month apart.
Items to bring: Paintbrushes and scissors, any found object you might want to include on your piece-all other materials will be supplied.
Time: 10:30 to 3:30 Lunch break at 12:30
Fee: $ 120.00 for both classes
Class Limit: 6
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Please note that if you cannot make the second class date you my schedule a make up class with me.

Don't you deserve some creative time? Come and play!

Mermaids under Glass

2011-05-06T19:37:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone!
I am announcing my new assemblage class: Mermaids under Glass. This class debuts next Saturday at
Art Max in Seaside California. I will also present this as a two part class so that everyone can see a finished
piece of art.
Our Mermaids will start with a small vintage metallic tray or bowl for a base.

In the center will be our mermaid collage image covered with a large vintage pocket watch crystal.

Next we will learn some shell work reminiscent of the work done in a Victorian Sailors valentine.

Lastly we will pull our assemblage together with acrylic paint and add perhaps a word or a line of poetry to add to the mystery of our mermaid.

This class will be open to all students beginner and advanced alike and will focus on the logistics and methods of creating a true found object assemblage. We will be adding wire on the back to server as hangers so that when finished you can immediately hang your Mermaid on the Wall.

This is only the first sample I will be posting so stay tuned for more assemblage to come!

May class schedule-Late!

2011-05-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone,

I just realized that I had not post the C.Andrews studio schedule yet. EEEKKK! May is a short month because of Mother's Day and Memorial day but we are offering some great classes. Here are the details:

Saturday May 7th Back by popular demand!
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Personal Collage Icons
Description: Icon: 1. An Image: representation, a simile or symbol. 2. A representation or picture of a sacred Christian personage that is traditional to the Eastern Churches.
In this intermediate collage class we will be creating our own personal icons on a 10 x10 canvas. What images have deep meaning for you? Is it a person? A place? Or maybe an object? Even the ordinary can become sacred or symbolic of some deeper personal meaning. To accomplish this we will be creating our icons using collage images and small found objects carefully boxed into compartments using embossed and corrugated papers and texture mediums. To help create a unified piece we will then apply paint washes and finally a glossy topcoat.
Items to bring: A variety of paintbrushes, scissors, 5 of your favorite acrylic paint colors and 3 to 5 related images. Please make sure that one of the images is large enough to become your focal point. The images must be color copied or printed on a permanent ink jet printer.
Time: 10:00am to 3:30pm Lunch break at 12:30
Fee: $55.00
Class Limit: 6
To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com.

Friday May 13th
Scrapbook Night at the Studio
Hey Scrapbookers! Back by popular demand is a Friday Night crop. Come and join the fun and get caught up! Join Cindy McCool & Maureen Barton as they crop till they drop and rumor has it that several Paris books will be worked on for some time to come. We have missed our little socials, so come on down. Space is limited to 6 so reserve early and put this on your calendar for the 2nd Friday of the Month until further notice."
Cost $10.00
To reserve your spot please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com

Saturday May 14th
Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy
Class: Marie Antoinette Altered Tins
Description: This month I am teaching an altered tin class with a Marie Antoinette theme. She seems to be making a comeback again! I have lots of fun things to embellish our tins with, including German Dresden, bling, trim, and great images of the queen herself. The possibilities are endless! Here are the details:
Time: 12:00 to 3:30
Fee: $45.00 (includes sweet treats)
Class Limit: 6
If you wish to sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com

Sunday May 15th
Open studio /ABC workday
Time: 11:00 to 5:00pm
Fee: $10.00 for the entire day

Wednesday May 18th
Altered Books Club
Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Fee: $10.00 per person

Saturday May 21st/Saturday June 25th
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Assemblage: Mermaids under glass
Description: In my first assemblage class we will combine decorative metal trays, glass pocket watch lenses, collage images, sea shells and acrylic paint to create a representational “mermaid”. This class will focus on the materials and logistics of “assembling” this unique creation. Please note that this class will run for two sessions a month apart.
Items to bring: Paintbrushes and scissors-all other materials will be supplied.
Time: 10:30 to 3:30 Lunch break at 12:30
Fee: $ 120.00 for both classes
Class Limit: 6
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Thursday May 26th
Instructor: Cindy McCool
Class: Father’s day/Birthday/all occasion cards
Description: When you need it do you have the right card or do you have to make a quick trip to the store and spend upwards of $5.00 to get one that says the right thing for the right occasion? If so then this class is for you. This month you will complete 5 cards for all occasions. Let's face it, your friends want to hear from you and a special handmade card received in the mail will always brighten their day.
Items to bring: basic tool kit, scissors, adhesives and a journaling pen all other materials will be provided.
Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm
Fee: $25.00
To sign up for this class please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com.

C.Andrews Studio is located at 103-1 Harvard, Princeton-by-the-Sea. Please email me at connie@isbjorn.com if you need directions.

More classes in May
Saturday May 14th /Saturday June 18th
Location: Art Max in Seaside
Class: Assemblage: Mermaids under glass
Description: In my first assemblage class we will combine decorative metal trays, glass pocket watch lenses, collage images, sea shells and acrylic paint to create a representational “mermaid”. This class will focus on the materials and logistics of “assembling” this unique creation. Please note that this class will run for two sessions a month apart.
Items to bring: Paintbrushes and scissors-all other materials will be supplied.
Time: 11:00 to 4:00 Lunch break at 1:00
Fee: $ 120.00 for both classes
Class Limit: 6
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Sunday May 22nd
Location: Palace Arts in Capitola
Class: Texture for Collage Artists
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class Description: In this techniques driven class we will explore ways to add texture to your art work using paint, Gesso, Gel Medium and special texture mediums. Each student will walk out with a tag book of Texture samples to use for future reference.
Items to bring: We will be splattering paint so please bring paint brushes and an apron or smock to cover your clothes with and paintbrushes. All other materials will be supplied.
Time: 11:00 to 4:00pm Lunch break at 1:00
Fee: $50.00
Class size limit: 8
To sign up for this class please call Palace Arts at 831 464-2700

Altered Book swap #9

2011-04-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone,

Last wednesday my Altered book group had our 9th swap. This time I had Anne's book which was called "Road trip". I had a difficult time with this one since I'm not exactly a world traveller. I'm more of an armchair traveler. So that's was my take on the subject of Roadtrip. When I finally settled on this idea the wheels in my brain started to turn and all of a sudden a little story wrote its self. The result was of course another way over-the-top presentation. I'm sure that everyone is rolling their eyes but I couldn't help it. The story just took over. I had to tell it. I just couldn't keep it in. To contain my story I decided to make a little book inside Anne's altered book. To hold it I made a pocket in the book. You can see it above. The pocket is laced together in such a way for the book to slip into easily. Here's my explanation page text above:

Ok I'll admit it. I'm an armchair traveler. So I guess you're wondering what that is?

An armchair traveler is someone that rarely physically travels for one reason or another. But we do travel. And I mean big time. I have to confess that I am one of the best. I travel all the time. Yeah-I know what you're thinking. So you read a book, fall asleep and have a dream. Big whip.

But I'm here to tell you-my dreams are spectacular! Stupendous!. I am a professional armchair traveler. If there was an armchair Olympics -I'd be a gold medalist. I'd be a contender! And I'm here to prove it to you.

For your edification and enjoyment I have recounted just one of my incredible adventures. In fact by my count it's adventure # 3,954.

So here goes. Enjoy.

My Title Page

So it all happened one dark and stormy night. Cliche I know. But it really was dark and stormy. Anyway I was reading my latest scif/fantsy novel firmly ensconced in my comfy armchair and somehow despite the rain and extreme winds pelting the house-I fell asleep

I awoke in the midst of a swirling tornado! Debris from the surrounding houses was swirling around and around and I was right smack in the middle of it all. It was kind of a rush. It wa like riding Space Mountain at Disneyland!

I did feel bad about the neighbor's cows though.

Well I finally landed somewhere over the rainbow with frizzy hair and no comb. I was totally disorientated.

Next thing I knew I was surrounded by a bunch of little dudes all talking to me at once. Through all the noise I heard something about a dead witch, her sister finding out and that I should really leave now. I thought: what's the big deal? It's not like I dropped a house on her or anything. But they were all very insistant. Yes even Toto too! So not wanting to wear out my short welcome I decided to leave.

They pointed me to the Yellow brick road as the way out of town and I started off. You can see my start in a way cool time lapse sequence on the opposite page.(above)

I continued to follow that silly road until I came to green hillsides and lush meadows. It was beautiful here but weird. I mean the houses had round doors! Those doors must have been really expensive to replace. It isn't like you could just hop over to Home Depot and find a new one.

Anyway-I'd have stayed longer but some short dude with pointy ears was standing by the side of the road trying to sell a gold ring. He must have lost his job-poor guy. I felt bad for him and bought the ring for $50.00. I put it on so that I didn't lose it during my travels.

I stopped just long enough to ask a nice old man in a pointy hat the directions to the next town. I don't think he was all there because he told me to go fast and not look at the eye.

Ok.

Whatever.

The befuddled old gentleman had directed me to a large B & B on a hill. He said to ask for his buddy Dumbledore and I'd be well treated.

I was finally within flying distance to the Inn when I inadvertantly ended up in the middle of some kind of sporting match. Yikes!

I think the players were trying to catch some sort of bird or was it a key with wings? Anyway I really got in trouble when the darned thing moved into my flight path. I swear that what happened next wasn't my fault. I was trying to shoo it out of my path but I caught it instead!

Man that kid was so angry! And everyone was yelling and swearing at me. So I got out of there fast and didn't look back.

I flew so high and fast that I actually reached space!

Ok so about now you're wondering how I could breathe in the vacuum of space right?

I could breathe because this was my dream. So butt out!

I had now traveled quite a distance. I was parched . I went from galaxy to galaxy looking for a place to relax, have and drink and put my feet up for awhile.

I finally found a great Cantina in Mos Eisley. It was one of those little holes in the wall with real ambiance. I sidled up to the bar to order a drink but was told that this establishment didn't serve my kind here. Huh? I was going to argue this point but the bartender looked a little aggro. So I just flew to a corner and pouted awhile. I have to say that the place had a great band and that helped to chill me out a bit.

However as the night wore on things started to get a little rough. Multiple fights broke out resulting in an actual death or two. But it was after some old guy with a light saber cut off another guy's arm that I had had it. Not even the force could keep me there after that .

I blasted out of Mos Eisley as fast as I could go!

I felt better after I had put some distance between me and Mos Eisley. As I dropped out of light speed I decided to cruise along on impluse power for awhile.

So there I was cruising along, singing a song and minding my own business when all forward momentum halted.

I was caught in a tractor beam!

I was pulled aboard a large vessel. Some crazy Scotsman brought me to the captain. He was kind of cute in a 60's sort of way. I didn't think he was human at first but I realized that he was standing up to his waist in Tribbles! He was irate and told me to get off of his ship. I pointed out that my being on his ship was his own darn fault and that I would gladly leave.

But before I left I gave him the phone number for a good spay and neuter clinic. Man that ship was infested!

I was then taken to the transporter room. Cool! I had never been beamed before.

Just before the transfer the first officer walked in. He looked familiar so I asked him if he was related to a little guy with a ring? He showed no emotion just gave me a little hand signal as said:

Yes you guessed it:

Live long and Prosper.

My only response was : Meh-whatever. The End

Well I suppose that if you didn't think I was crazy before you do now right? meh-whatever.

Connie over and out!

My Classes for the remainder of April

2011-04-14T19:08:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone, Sorry I haven't blogged for awhile but I have been very busy with a brand new assemblage class that I will debut next month. Stay tuned for information about this new class. In the meantime I wanted to remind you about my classes for the reminder of April. Here are the details:

Saturday April 16th

Location: Art Max in Seaside

Class: Altered Cabinet cards
Description: Don’t you love all those old cabinet card photos? Using Collage, Rubberstamping, acrylic paints and various embellishments we will give discarded photos from 1800’s and 1900’s a second chance to be loved.
Items to bring: Paintbrushes and scissors. Feel free to also bring any special charms or decorative rubber stamps and dye inks that you might be dying to use.
Time: 11:00 to 3:30 Lunch break at 1:00
Fee: $45.00
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com
Class limit: 8

Sunday April 17th

Location: Palace Arts in Capitola
Class: Texture for Collage Artists
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class Description: In this techniques driven class we will explore ways to add texture to your art work using paint, Gesso, Gel Medium and special texture mediums. Each student will walk out with a tag book of Texture samples to use for future reference.
Items to bring: We will be splattering paint so please bring paint brushes and an apron or smock to cover your clothes with and paintbrushes. All other materials will be supplied.
Time: 11:00 to 4:00pm Lunch break at 1:00
Fee: $50.00
Class size limit: 8
To sign up for this class please call Palace Arts at 831 464-2700

Saturday April 30th
Location:C. Andrews Studios
Instructor: Connie Andrews
Class: Altered Book of Drawers
Description: In this class we will be creating a simple but elegant altered book of drawers. Our altered books will become a special place that holds our secrets, found objects or treasured memories.
Items to bring: Please bring your altered book kit that contains: xacto knife, cutting mat, scissors, paintbrushes, matte gel medium and gesso. You can bring any personal collage images or items small enough to fit in a matchbox that I might not have. Otherwise I will have plenty of images and found objects as usual. I will also have books with me for you to choose from.
Time: 10:00 to 4:00 Lunch break at 12:30
Fee: $55.00
Class Limit: 6
To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Beginning collage class at Palace Arts in Capitola

2011-03-28T11:47:00.001-07:00

Greetings everyone, I taught a two classes this weekend in which the students produced some incredible art. I would like to share with you some of the art from Sunday's beginning collage class at Palace Arts in Capitola. These pieces are simply amazing. Its difficult to believe these are all beginning collage artists. I find these pieces inspiring and hope you do too. Also keep watching my blog as I hope to have some of the samples from both book of drawers classes soon.

New Book of Drawers!

2011-03-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

Greetings! I wanted to share my new Book of Drawers. This is another sample for the class that I will be teaching this weekend. Yes that's a fly in the bottom right hand corner. Many people ask me where I get my ideas. Often this question is difficult to answer. Many of my ideas seem to be bits and parts of different things. However with this book I can tell you that the idea came directly from the title of the book. This by the way is an excellant way to start an altered book if you have no ideas for a theme in mind. The name of this book was Fly on the Wall. Just imagine what a fly on the wall hears and sees! I used a picture that I liked on the front of the book and made the cover look like peeling wall paper. To do this I used corrugated and real embossed wall paper. The ruined wall/peeling wallpaper look completely covers the book from front to back cover.

Above you can see the book with the Drawers open.

Here is a closeup of the drawers. The peeling wall paper is continued inside the drawers as well. "Fly on the wall. Hears all our secrets and sees all."

Huummm something to think about the next time you see a fly on the wall isn't it?

Altered Book Club Swap #8

2011-03-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone! Its's past time for this post. I seem to be running behind time on everything these days. Anyway, the Altered Book Club met last week with our 8th swap offerings. This time I had Cindy's Book of Secrets. The Book of Secrets was a difficult subject for me because I just don't have many secrets. I figure what you see is what you get. If I do have secrets then they belong to someone else and I don't have permission to spill those. I really don't like holding things like secrets, grudges or anger. They just get you into trouble. So needless to say after three and a half weeks of trying to find a subject it came to me that I do have one secret. This secret was not easy to present or easy to speak about. My secret is that I have a secret world. My secret world goes with me everywhere because it's in my head. My world is populated with people and creatures out of books, poetry,movies or total fabrications from my own brain. In my secret world I am beautiful, special, have magic powers and many adventures. As you might have guessed I spend alot of time in my secret world. I am happy there. Because of my secret world I can think up Fairy Detection Kits and wild art projects. But also because I spend so much time in my secret world often I feel just slightly out of step with the "real" world. "The doors of my mind open to a secret world rarely seen" In the photo above, the two strong doors represent the doors of my mind. If you open the doors you can see my world below.

To create my world I decided to present it as a fold out in Cindy's book.

Here is a closer view of the left hand panel. In the front is the fae maid beguiling and sucking the life from her unsuspecting knight. If you look closely you will find another fairy in attendance. At the top of the page is a tribute to the dragon riders of Pern and the white ship bearing Frodo away to the west.

In this panel the central figure represents me (I always have long beautiful hair and wear Medieval clothing) I am surveying my world which includes a mermaid, Pegasus and enchanted castle. On the very right of the panel is the flying Ford Anglia from Harry Potter (Those boys are goint to be in so much trouble!)

In the right hand panel is my handsome warrior. I won't even go into the comments made about his rather large sword! Above him is Gandalf the Grey. And above everyone's favorite wizard is my beautiful fairy in her enchanted garden.

I think that this has been one of the most difficult collages that I've done. For the first time I actually had to construct a world in which I could fit in all of my favorite elements and still have them make sense. By "construct" I mean paint. Some of the world was painted before the collage elements were added and some of it was painted after the addition of the collage elements.

I have to say that I was gratified when most people thought that my world was a place that they would want to visit. I suspect that many creative people have secret worlds. How about you?

New Class: Altered Book of Drawers

2011-03-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone! Yes it's time for a new class. For the next two weekends I will be teaching you how to make an Altered Book of Drawers. This is a fun and surprisingly easy type of altered book to create. You can add pages to the front of the book for extra content or just use the entire book as a cabinet of treasures as I did in the book above. The original title of this book was Deadly bugs and Killer insects so I thought it was a perfect book for my Secret Life of Bees theme.

Here is the book with the drawers open.

A close up of the Gods hands holding my giant bee. Who doesn't love a giant bee?

I will be teaching this class in two locations this month. Here are the details:

Saturday March 19th Location: Art Max in Seaside Class: Altered Book of Drawers Description: In this class we will be creating a simple but elegant altered book of drawers. Our altered books will become a special place that holds our secrets, found objects or treasured memories. Items to bring: Please bring your altered book kit that contains: xacto knife, cutting mat, scissors, paintbrushes, matte gel medium and gesso. You can bring any personal collage images or items small enough to fit in a matchbox that I might not have. Otherwise I will have plenty of images and found objects as usual. I will also have books with me for you to choose from. Time: 11:00 to 4:00 Fee: $55.00 To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com Class limit: 6 Saturday March 26th Instructor: Connie Andrews

Where: C Andrews Studio Class: Altered Book of Drawers Description: In this class we will be creating a simple but elegant altered book of drawers. Our altered books will become a special place that holds our secrets, found objects or treasured memories. Items to bring: Please bring your altered book kit that contains: xacto knife, cutting mat, scissors, paintbrushes, matte gel medium and gesso. You can bring any personal collage images or items small enough to fit in a matchbox that I might not have. Otherwise I will have plenty of images and found objects as usual. I will also have books with me for you to choose from. Time: 10:00 to 3:30 Fee: $55.00 Class limit: 6

To sign up for this class please email me at connie@isbjorn.com I hope some of you will join me in creating your very own Altered Book of Drawers

Bunny Boy, Cabbage baby and Bird boy oh my!

2011-03-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone, I had a small but wonderful class at Scrap-It in Santa Cruz yesterday. I just had to show you some of the cards that my students made. Above you can see the Bird Boy. This card was really fun because the wings, crow and cat were all 3-D items. I particulary loved the cat with the bird in its mouth just watching that crow. Yum!

Look at this lovely cabbage baby. I guess they do come from cabbage patches.

And you've got to love bunny boy and his stuck up queenly sister. I'd laugh at her too!

These last two are my latest installments. Up top is Emily Squash. She is her parent's " little Pumpkin". And of course Aunt Emily and her lovely new Easter bonnet. And to my fellow artist Cindy McCool-Hey Look! Its a chicken.

And that's all folks!

Altering and more altering

2011-03-10T11:08:00.000-08:00

Greetings everyone! After finding a stash of Cabinet Cards in January I have decided to revive an old class of mine. This weekend we will be altering Vintage Cabinet Cards. I love this class. I love the fact that I am creating a piece of art out of something that is no longer valued in its original form. Many people might think that its disrespectful to put bunny ears on "Uncle Enoch" below. I do not. Uncle Enoch and his bunny ears make me and others smile and laugh. He inspires me and makes me want to be creative. In his slightly altered way Uncle Enoch lives again and is cherished instead of sitting at the bottom of some box at a flea market slowly deterioriating. Who knows maybe Uncle Enoch would have laughed as well. I can only hope that when I am dead and gone that someone rescues my picture and values it enough to give me bunny ears! Here are the details of my class this weekend: Saturday March 12th Location: Scrap-it in Santa Cruz Instructor: Connie Andrews Class: Altered Cabinet cards Description: Don’t you love all those old cabinet card photos? Using Collage, Rubberstamping, acrylic paints and various embellishments we will give discarded photos from 1800’s and 1900’s a second chance to be loved. Items to bring: Paintbrushes and scissors. Feel free to also bring any special charms or decorative rubber stamps and dye inks that you might be dying to use. Time: 11:00 to 3:00 Fee: $45.00 To sign up for this class please call Scrap-it at: 831 475-2380 Class limit: 5 You can see more of my Altered Cabinet cards below.

March Classes-already

2011-03-01T12:06:00.001-08:00

Greetings Everyone! Can you believe its already March?! High time to post my March schedule. The schedule below will include the classes at C.Andrews studio as well as my classes in other locations(see the end of the post). Ok-here goes! Saturday March 5th Instructor: Connie Andrews Class: Personal Collage Icons Description: Icon: 1. An Image: representation, a simile or symbol. 2. A representation or picture of a sacred Christian personage that is traditional to the Eastern Churches. In this intermediate collage class we will be creating our own personal icons on a 10 x10 canvas. What images have deep meaning for you? Is it a person? A place? Or maybe an Object? Even the ordinary can become sacred or symbolic of some deeper personal meaning. To accomplish this we will be creating our icons using collage images and small found objects carefully boxed into compartments using embossed and corrugated papers and texture mediums. To help create a unified piece we will then apply paint washes and finally a glossy topcoat. Items to bring: A variety of paintbrushes, scissors, 5 of your favorite acrylic paint colors and 3 to 5 related images. Please make sure that one of the images is large enough to become your focal point. The images must be color copied or printed on a permanent ink jet printer. Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm Fee: $55.00 To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com. Class limit: 6

Saturday March 12th Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy Class: Vintage Cuffs Description: Let’s create beautiful one-of-a-kind wrist cuffs using vintage lace, buttons, gems, flowers and findings. These lovely and romantic pieces can be worn dressed up or dressed down. I will supply all the materials and sweets to make this class a fun get together with fellow kindred spirits. Time: 12:00 to 3:30 Fee: $45.00 If you wish to sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com Class limit: 6 students

Thursday March 17th Instructor: Cindy McCool Class: All Occasion/Birthday cards Description: When you need it do you have the right card or do you have to make a quick trip to the store and spend upwards of $5.00 to get one that says the right thing for the right occasion? If so then this class is for you. This month you will complete 5 cards for all occasions. Let's face it, your friends want to hear from you and a special handmade card received in the mail will always brighten their day. Items to bring: basic tool kit, scissors, adhesives and a journaling pen all other materials will be provided. Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm Fee: $25.00 To sign up for this class please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com.

Sunday March 20th Instructor: Maria Ontiveros Class: Art Journal Backgrounds and Embellishments (with optional workshop time) Description Bring your art journal and learn some new techniques. We'll focus on a painted and scraped background and butcher paper collaged embellishments. Afterwards, you have the option to stay and play in your journal, with guidance and supplies from Maria. This class is geared to continuing art journal students. Items to bring: Please bring your art journal, paints, brushes and other general art journaling supplies. Also, please bring any large punches you would be willing to share. Time: 12:30 to 3:30 Fee: $25.00 Stay and play until 5:30 for only $5 more! To sign up for this class please email Maria at: rinda1961@yahoo.com

Saturday March 26th Instructor: Connie Andrews Class: Altered Book of Drawers Description: In this class we will be creating a simple but elegant altered book of drawers. Our altered books will become a special place that holds our secrets, found objects or treasured memories. Items to bring: Please bring your altered book kit that contains: xacto knife, cutting mat, scissors, paintbrushes, matte gel medium and gesso. You can bring any personal collage images or items small enough to fit in a matchbox that I might not have. Otherwise I will have plenty of images and found objects as usual. I will also have books with me for you to choose from. Time: 10:00 to 3:30 Fee: $55.00 Class limit: 6 Other Events in March at C. Andrews studio Sunday March 6th Open studio Altered Book Club work day Description: You can work on anything on this day but the emphasis is on your altered book club swap. Come and work in the company of kindred spirits. 11:00 to 4:00 pm or whenever we decide to leave $10.00 Sunday March 13th Maria’s special event All day. Wednesday March 16th Altered Books Club Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm Fee: $10.00 per person Also offered at the studio Private studio time – This is for artists and art groups looking to rent studio space to work or to get together during the week-the times and fees are to be arranged on an individual basis. If you are interested in private studio time please email me at connie@isbjorn.com. Open Studio- This is studio time open to everyone for only $10.00 per day. Open studios is available every Friday evening and on the weekends when no classes are being offered. Please note that to use the studio you must arrange this with me in advance. Just email me at connie@isbjorn.com and let me know you would like to use it. Open studio for the month of March will be on the following dates: March 4th, March 6th, March 11th, March 18th, and March 25th More classes in March

Saturday March 12th Location: Scrap-it in Santa Cruz Class: Altered Cabinet cards Description: Don’t you love all those old cabinet card photos? Using Collage, Rubberstamping, acrylic paints and various embellishments we will give discarded photos from 1800’s and 1900’s a second chance to be loved. Items to bring: Paintbrushes and scissors. Feel free to also bring any special charms or decorative rubber stamps and dye inks that you might be dying to use. Time: 11:00 to 3:00 Fee: $45.00 To sign up for this class please call Scrap-it at: 831 475-2380 Class limit: 5 Saturday March 19th Location: Art Max in Seaside Class: Altered Book of Drawers Description: In this class we will be creating a simple but elegant altered book of drawers. Our altered books will become a special place that holds our secrets, found objects or treasured memories. Items to bring: Please bring your altered book kit that contains: xacto knife, cutting mat, scissors, paintbrushes, matte gel medium and gesso. You can bring any personal collage images or items small enough to fit in a matchbox that I might not have. Otherwise I will have plenty of images and found objects as usual. I will also have books with me for you to choose from. Time: 11:00 to 4:00 Fee: $55.00 To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com Class limit: 6

Sunday March 27th Beginning Collage part 2 ****Note- Part one is a prerequisite for this class***** Instructor: Connie Andrews Class Description: In this continuation of beginning collage 1, we will begin by creating 3 more backgrounds that get progressively more textured. We will then explore composition in more depth and finish our collages using all the tricks and techniques learned from both classes. Every student will get another collage pack of papers and found objects to use in class or take home. Items to bring: Please bring paintbrushes and scissors and your instruction folder and collages from part 1, all other materials will be supplied. Class times: 11:00 to 4:00pm Lunch break at 1:00 Fee: $120.00 for the series Class size limit: 8 Connie-over and out ! connie@isbjorn.com www.conniesdream.blogspot.com www.isbjorn.etsy.com

ABC swap #7-Way over the top

2011-02-23T19:28:00.001-08:00

Welcome everyone! I hope you were wondering where the next ABC swap was. Sorry-I was a little late due to starting this project way late and also teaching a new class this last weekend. Ok- let me say yes, as stated above this was way over the top-even for me. Book #7 was Cathy's book. The subject was Fantasy. Now this subject should be easy for me since fantasy books have long been a staple of mine. Whenever I need to escape I pick up a fantasy book and take a little journey. And by the way I just finshed the Mistborn trilogy by Brandon Sanderson. Wow! its been a long time since I read a fanstasy/scifi book that I have been so absolutely taken with. Its an amazing series! Anyway-back to reality. Since I was the 7th person in line for this book eveyone before me had created these amazing fairies, mermaids, space scenarios and even fantasy Cowboys. I could do more of the same but everyone elses art was so fabulous I knew I just couldn't compete. I needed to come up with something totally different. My first idea was to create a Cabinet of Curiosities and actually embed a small cabinet in a board book. But somehow I just couldn't make this work in my mind. At least not in time for the swap (last wednesday). Finally sunday night before the swap I finally got an idea that I knew I could make work in time-if barely. I worked monday, tuesday and wednesday right up until an hour before the swap. EEEK! Cathy had decided to use a series of board books for the swap and they worked perfectly for my project. I created collages on a spread and made pockets on both sides. You can see the full collages with non filled pockets above. Here is the same spread with the pockets filled. But what's in them you ask? Fairy B-Gones fairy detection flyleaf and instruction booklet of course!

I bet you sitting there with an open mouth wondering what I've done now. I've made a fairy detection kit complete with advertisement and instruction booklet. What else? Ask yourself if you are infested with those nasty fairies what do you do? You call Fairy B-Gone of course! Fairy B-Gone's patented detection kit complete with instructions and bonus elimination suggestions is the nations top Fairy detection method. Guaranteed to be 99% safe and effective!

Here's what their advertisement says:

Fairy B-Gone Do things seem a little different around your house lately? Are you continually misplacing jewelry never to find it again? Do you do stupid things and feel like someone else is in control of your thoughts and actions? Does your house always seem to be in need of a cleaning even thought you just cleaned it last week? If so your house could be infested with Fairies. Contrary to popular belief fairies are not benevolent or harmless creatures. Fairies are mischievous often malevolent beings that leave destruction and chaos in their wake. So what do you do? If you tell just anyone they simply won’t believe you. In fact you could find yourself incarcerated in a mental facility accused of being unstable. But with Fairy B-Gone’s do it yourself home fairy detection system you can find out the truth of the matter. Now for just $19.95 Fairy B-gone will send you their foolproof system that includes their patented home detection kit and booklet. To purchase your very own kit this minute please call 1 800 u-r nuts. Or you can purchase this kit online at www.scamcentral.com.

On the opposite side of the spread is the Fairy B-Gone instruction booklet. You can see part of it above. I have posted the text below.

Fairy B-gone This booklet includes: 4 sure fire ways to test for fairy infestations 3 bonus Fairy elimination suggestions

Test #1: Check for brown specks on your favorite treasures. Despite what science tell us, these brown spots are not caused by flies throwing up brown digestive juice. It is actually something far worse. This is fairy excrement. . (See the speck sample in your Fairy detection kit). These brown specks are a sure sign that the nasty little buggers hate you. Test #2: Bling stealing. Is your jewelry missing? Fairies cannot resist Bling. A sure test for fairy infestation is to place a few very gaudy pieces of jewelry around the house at night. If they are all gone in the morning you have a fairy infestation. Included in your fairy detection and elimination kit are several Bling items. Set them in strategic areas of your home at night and check them first thing in the morning. Test #3: Slippery floors: The next time you slip on the floor in you home immediately look at the bottom of your shoe. Fairies love to place sharp objects on the floor for you to step on. If you are lucky you have stepped on one as it was performing its nasty little deed and killed it. Simply scrap off the slime and look at it through the magnifying glass included in your kit. You can then compare it to the smashed sample also provided in the fairy detection kit. Test #4 Fairy Dust: If you find a load of sparkly dust around the house and you are not an artist then this is fairy dust (please see sample in your kit) important: Fairy Dust will not make you fly! Do not throw it around and then jump off a multistoried building. Wear a dust mask while sweeping or vacuuming fairy dust up. This highly addictive substance could cause lightness of spirit, true belief and throat irritations from excessive laughing.

Some suggestions for Fairy elimination: 1.Elimination of your imagination Method: Seek help from a Mental Health professional or some other person that does not have enough imagination to believe in fairies (accountants, government officials, college professors or any grown up) After a couple of visits these Pseudo intellectuals will drive the remnants of your childhood away and you will stop being troubled with fairies. 2.Lady’s Cottington’s patented Splat Fairy Method This is a particularly effective method that is safe and fun. Go to www.thefairy’smademedoit.com for more information. 3.Double stick tape method: This is the most inexpensive method available on the market today. Simply purchase Fairy B-Gone’s special double stick tape. Before you go to bed at night place this tape in any area that you don’t want fairies (fairies will naturally flock to the areas that you want to be fairy free), place a small crumb of cake on the tape then go to bed. Check the tape first thing in the morning and if there are fairies stuck to it just pull the tape up and throw it in the waste can.

Personally I find this instruction kit to be very helpful in all your fairy detection and elimination needs.

And here is the kit. It is packaged in a handsome antiqued wooden box. It is sure to fit into most every decor.

On the inside top the detection supplies are listed:

This Kit Includes: • Fairy specks sample • Fairy identification sample • Vial of Fairy dust sample (hermetically sealed ) • Bag o’Bling • Magnifying glass

From one of Fairy B-Gone's ads you can see the kit and supplies it contains.

Here are the items for your perusal. Remember Fairy-B-Gones motto is: "No Fairy is too small to be detected".

Over and out.

Fun classes and phenomenal art!

2011-02-21T10:17:00.001-08:00

Welcome everyone! This weekend I debuted my new class: Personal Collage Icons. I was exhilarated by the art I saw from the students. It was truly phenomenal work. Each and every piece was very different and all the students were successful with the goals I laid out for the class. Unfortunately I forgot to bring my camera for the Saturdays class but here are three pieces from yesterdays class. Bear in mind that not all the pieces were finished. We did manage to place a gloss finish over all the pieces but two of the pieces still had found objects to be added.

I am hoping that I will still receive some pictures from Saturdays class(cell phone cameras were in use) and I will post those at a later time.

If you are interested in this class I will be teaching it again at C.Andrews studio on Saturday March 5th. from 10:00 to 3:00. If you are iterested in more information please email me at connie@isbjorn.com.

over and out!

Personal Collage Icons all weekend long

2011-02-18T09:35:00.001-08:00

Welcome everyone! I just wanted to share my new class with you. This weekend I will be teaching Personal Collage Icons both days. This class has three goals: 1. To give students a chance to use their own images and decide why those images are symbolic for them. 2. To experiment with embossed and textured papers. 3. Practice using color and texture to recreate emotions or feelings. You can see my new example above. It shows different views of one of the many angel statues at a local cemetary. I love the angel statues there. They are great pieces of a virtually lost art. They are majestic and glorious. Every time I visit this cemetary I feel as if I am being watched over by one of these beautiful guardians. They have become a symbol for me. Hence an Icon. I wanted to showcase this lost art with different aspects of my favorite statue. I show closeups of her face, wing and arm pointing the way to heavenly paradise. This angel is on a high pedestal and was surrounded by blue sky. I intesified the blue to represent the blue colors on the stained glass windows in all the mausoleums in the cemetary. When the sun shines through the stained glass each mausoleum is bathed in colored light. I added yellow to represent this glow and to warm up this collage. It makes the angel even more dramatic.

Below you can find examples of the first series of collages that I created in Icon style. They are all scenes from one of my favorite places: The Carmel Mission.

If you are interested in this class here are the details for this weekend. I will also be teaching this class again on March 5th at C.Andrews studio.

Saturday February 19th Class: Personal Collage Icons Where: Art Max in Seaside Description: Icon: 1. An Image: representation, a simile or symbol. 2. A representation or picture of a sacred Christian personage that is traditional to the Eastern Churches. In this intermediate collage class we will be creating our own personal icons on a 10 x10 canvas. What images have deep meaning for you? Is it a person? A place? Or maybe an Object? Even the ordinary can become sacred or symbolic of some deeper personal meaning. To accomplish this we will be creating our icons using collage images and small found objects carefully boxed into compartments using embossed and corrugated papers and texture mediums. To help create a unified piece we will then apply paint washes and finally a glossy topcoat. Items to bring: A variety of paintbrushes, scissors, 5 of your favorite acrylic paint colors and 3 to 5 related images. Please make sure that one of the images is large enough to become your focal point. The images must be color copied or printed on a permanent ink jet printer. Please also bring any special found object you would like to add to your canvas as well. Time: 11:00am to 4:00pm-Lunch break at 1:00 Fee: $55.00 To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com. Class Limit: 6 people Sunday Feb 20th Where: C.Andrews studio Class: Personal Collage Icons Description: Icon: 1. An Image: representation, a simile or symbol. 2. A representation or picture of a sacred Christian personage that is traditional to the Eastern Churches. In this intermediate collage class we will be creating our own personal icons on a 10 x10 canvas. What images have deep meaning for you? Is it a person? A place? Or maybe an Object? Even the ordinary can become sacred or symbolic of some deeper personal meaning. To accomplish this we will be creating our icons using collage images and small found objects carefully boxed into compartments using embossed and corrugated papers and texture mediums. To help create a unified piece we will then apply paint washes and finally a glossy topcoat. Items to bring: A variety of paintbrushes, scissors, 5 of your favorite acrylic paint colors and 3 to 5 related images. Please make sure that one of the images is large enough to become your focal point. The images must be color copied or printed on a permanent ink jet printer. Please also bring any special found object you would like to add to your canvas as well. Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm- Lunch break at 12:30 Fee: $55.00 To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com.

See you in class!

Wow-Look at these Altered Postcards!

2011-02-13T21:27:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone! I hope that your weekend was as much fun as mine. I just had to show you a few of the altered vintage postcards from both my classes this weekend. In the card above this child is apparently afraid of something but it's a secret. I love the composition and placement of the red postage stamps in this piece. They add just the right touch. The strong colors used in the piece compliment this very dramatic child perfectly.

I love the fantasy feel of this card punctuated by the colors used. But with that snow on the mountains I bet this fairy is cold.

This beautiful postcard perfectly captures all the Romance and splendor of Venice.

Well how can you resist this little Transylvanian treat. The colors on this piece really set the mood and oddly make Frank the perfect collage image. Better not go there though, Franky looks a little on the grumpy side.

I love this Rialto postcard. It absolutely screams Romance but almost with a carnival twist. Beautiful.

This postcard with its crackle finish looks like an ancient piece of pottery. Using that crackle stamp was a brilliant idea and really makes this card special.

I love the vintage paper border all around the central image on this card. It makes me feel like I am peering through the lens of a camera to capture a fleeting moment in time. I wonder if this woman got her room with a view?

Look at the brilliant colors in this fantasy Poppy fairy card! Beautiful. But I wonder what this fairy is carrying?

And last but certainly not least this incredible woman dancing for sheer joy besides the riverbank. This piece has a wonderful quiet yet joyful feel. I get both energy and serenity from this card. But if that was me in this card I'd probably end up falling in the water where upon that fish would attack me and eat me.

Well that was the last of my altered vintage postcard classes for awhile. I have seen some incredible work done by the students in this class. I want to thank all the students that continue to take my classes. I hope they have as much fun as I do teaching them. I also want to thank Scrap-it in Santa Cruz for their willingness to host this class and for allowing me to invade their space.

Talk to you later!

Connie

Altered Vintage Postcards all weekend!

2011-02-11T10:35:00.001-08:00

Welcome Everyone! Well its a beautful friday here on the coast A little breezy but the sun it out. This weekend promises to be an absolute blast! I will be teaching Altered Vintage postcards both days. First in Santa Cruz and then at the studio on Sunday. Here are the details of both classes: Saturday February 12th Class: Altered Vintage postcards Where: Scrap-it in Santa Cruz Description: Foreign Vintage post cards with their evocative images make beautiful backgrounds for collage. Plus any old postmark, cancelled stamp or writing already on the postcard just adds to the visual interest. So that all these elements mix together harmoniously we will be softening the outlines with a process called Scumbling. To” scumble” is to add a thin layer of white acrylic gouache and then repaint so that all your added elements will match. The surface takes on the look of a painted fresco but still allows the background elements to be seen. To get used to the acrylic gouache the first hour of class will be a color mixing lesson in which every student will prepare an elementary color wheel to take home for future use. Items to bring: scissors, any background rubberstamps you might like to use, various small paintbrushes (Make sure to bring a couple of liners), and a number 4 short bristled filbert brush. If you do not have a filbert brush I will have some available to purchase for a small fee of $4.00 per brush. Time: 11:00 to 4:00 Lunch break at 1:00 Fee: $55.00 + $4.00 for filbert brush To sign up for this class please call scrap it at: 831 475-2380 Class Limit: 5 Sunday Feb 13th Instructor: Connie Andrews Where: C.Andrews studios Class: Altered Vintage Postcards Description: Foreign Vintage post cards with their evocative images make beautiful backgrounds for collage. Plus any old postmark, cancelled stamp or writing already on the postcard just adds to the visual interest. So that all these elements mix together harmoniously we will be softening the outlines with a process called Scumbling. To” scumble” is to add a thin layer of white acrylic gouache and then repaint so that all your added elements will match. The surface takes on the look of a painted fresco but still allows the background elements to be seen. To get used to the acrylic gouache the first hour of class will be a color mixing lesson in which every student will prepare an elementary color wheel to take home for future use. Items to bring: scissors, any background rubberstamps you might like to use, various small paintbrushes (Make sure to bring a couple of liners), and a number 4 short bristled filbert brush. If you do not have a filbert brush I will have some available to purchase for a small fee of $4.00 per brush. Time: 10:00am to 3:30pm Fee: $55.00 + $4.00 if you purchase a filbert brush Class size limit: 6 To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com. Want to see more examples? Check out my earlier posts.

I'm on Etsy!

2011-02-07T14:49:00.001-08:00

Hello Everyone! Well I finally did it! I'm on etsy. Right now I have four items listed. Whew! Not only that but thanks to my good friend Mona I have also linked this blog and my etsy page with an etsy mini . You can find the mini right below my list of followers. You can see there is a little space for me to add more items in the coming weeks. To go to my etsy page you can click on the mini or you can click on this link www.isbjorn.etsy.com. If that doesn't work just type the address into your browser. But do me a favor and check out my etsy store and give me some feedback. This is only a beginning!

February classes

2011-02-02T19:36:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! Its difficult to believe that its February 2nd already. As it is I am a day late in sharing the February class schedule with you, both for C.Andrews studio and my other classes elsewhere.

So here it is:

C.Andrews Studio February 2011 classes and events

Saturday Feb 12th Instructor: Maria Ontiveros Class: Paint/Emboss/Stamp =Fun Description: Come learn how to combine stamps, embossing powders and paint for wonderfully textured and colored images. We'll create 6 cards, using 3 techniques. I will also demonstrate how these techniques can be used in your art journals and collage." I'll bring along an assortment of fish and beach stamps to share, but feel free to bring your own stamps as well. Items to bring: Please bring a heat gun, paint brush and small spray bottle for water if you own them. You may also want to bring along twinkling H2o’s and an assortment of embossing powders and inks, if you have them. Time: 10:00am to 1:00pm Fee: $30 ($5 discount for new comers and for those who sign up in groups of two or more). To sign up for this call please email Maria at: rinda1961@yahoo.com Sunday Feb 13th Instructor: Connie Andrews Class: Altered Vintage Postcards Description: Foreign Vintage post cards with their evocative images make beautiful backgrounds for collage. Plus any old postmark, cancelled stamp or writing already on the postcard just adds to the visual interest. So that all these elements mix together harmoniously we will be softening the outlines with a process called Scumbling. To” scumble” is to add a thin layer of white acrylic gouache and then repaint so that all your added elements will match. The surface takes on the look of a painted fresco but still allows the background elements to be seen. To get used to the acrylic gouache the first hour of class will be a color mixing lesson in which every student will prepare an elementary color wheel to take home for future use. Items to bring: scissors, any background rubberstamps you might like to use, various small paintbrushes (Make sure to bring a couple of liners), and a number 4 short bristled filbert brush. (next Page) If you do not have a filbert brush I will have some available to purchase for a small fee of $4.00 per brush. Time: 10:00am to 3:30pm Fee: $55.00 + $4.00 if you purchase a filbert brush Class size limit: 6 To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com. Can’t make this class? See below for another opportunity to take this class. Sunday Feb 20th Instructor: Connie Andrews Class: Personal Collage Icons Description: Icon: 1. An Image: representation, a simile or symbol. 2. A representation or picture of a sacred Christian personage that is traditional to the Eastern Churches. In this intermediate collage class we will be creating our own personal icons on a 10 x10 canvas. What images have deep meaning for you? Is it a person? A place? Or maybe an Object? Even the ordinary can become sacred or symbolic of some deeper personal meaning. To accomplish this we will be creating our icons using collage images and small found objects carefully boxed into compartments using embossed and corrugated papers and texture mediums. To help create a unified piece we will then apply paint washes and finally a glossy topcoat. Items to bring: A variety of paintbrushes, scissors, 5 of your favorite acrylic paint colors and 3 to 5 related images. Please make sure that one of the images is large enough to become your focal point. The images must be color copied or printed on a permanent ink jet printer. Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm Fee: $55.00 To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com. Thursday Feb 24th Instructor: Cindy McCool Class: All Occasion Cards Description: When you need it do you have the right card or do you have to make a quick trip to the store and spend upwards of $5.00 to get one that says the right thing for the right occasion? If so then this class is for you. Each month you will complete 5 cards for an occasion so that at the end of the series you will have a full portfolio of appropriate cards. Let's face it, your friends want to hear from you and a special handmade card received in the mail will always brighten their day.

Items to bring: basic tool kit, scissors, adhesives and a journaling pen all other materials will be provided. Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm Fee: $25.00 To sign up for this class please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com.

Other Events in February at C. Andrews studio Saturday Feb. 5th Open studio Altered Book Club work day Description: You can work on anything on this day but the emphasis is on your altered book club swap. Come and work in the company of kindred spirits. 11:00 to 4:00 pm or whenever we decide to leave $10.00 Wednesday February 16th Altered Books Club Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm Fee: $10.00 per person Saturday February 26th Ingrid’s private event Time: 1:00pm to 9:00pm Fee: $35.00 + $10.00 Also offered at the studio

Private studio time – This is for artists and art groups looking to rent studio space to work or to get together during the week-the times and fees are to be arranged on an individual basis. If you are interested in private studio time please email me at connie@isbjorn.com. Open Studio- This is studio time open to everyone for only $10.00 per day. Open studios is available every Friday evening and on the weekends when no classes are being offered. Please note that to use the studio you must arrange this with me in advance. Just email me at connie@isbjorn.com and let me know you would like to use it. Open studio for the month of February will be on the following dates: Feb 4th, Feb 5th, Feb 11th, Feb 18th, and Feb 25th

More classes around the Bay Area

Saturday February 12th Class: Altered Vintage postcards Where: Scrap-it in Santa Cruz Description: Foreign Vintage post cards with their evocative images make beautiful backgrounds for collage. Plus any old postmark, cancelled stamp or writing already on the postcard just adds to the visual interest. So that all these elements mix together harmoniously we will be softening the outlines with a process called Scumbling. To” scumble” is to add a thin layer of white acrylic gouache and then repaint so that all your added elements will match. The surface takes on the look of a painted fresco but still allows the background elements to be seen. To get used to the acrylic gouache the first hour of class will be a color mixing lesson in which every student will prepare an elementary color wheel to take home for future use. Items to bring: scissors, any background rubberstamps you might like to use, various small paintbrushes (Make sure to bring a couple of liners), and a number 4 short bristled filbert brush. (next Page) If you do not have a filbert brush I will have some available to purchase for a small fee of $4.00 per brush. Time: 11:00 to 4:00 Lunch break at 1:00 Fee: $55.00 + $4.00 for filbert brush To sign up for this class please call Scrap It at: 831 475-2380 Class Limit: 4 Saturday February 19th Class: Personal Collage Icons Where: Art Max in Seaside Description: Icon: 1. An Image: representation, a simile or symbol. 2. A representation or picture of a sacred Christian personage that is traditional to the Eastern Churches. In this intermediate collage class we will be creating our own personal icons on a 10 x10 canvas. What images have deep meaning for you? Is it a person? A place? Or maybe an Object? Even the ordinary can become sacred or symbolic of some deeper personal meaning. To accomplish this we will be creating our icons using collage images and small found objects carefully boxed into compartments using embossed and corrugated papers and texture mediums. To help create a unified piece we will then apply paint washes and finally a glossy topcoat. Items to bring: A variety of paintbrushes, scissors, 5 of your favorite acrylic paint colors and 3 to 5 related images. Please make sure that one of the images is large enough to become your focal point. The images must be color copied or printed on a permanent ink jet printer. Time: 11:00am to 4:00pm-Lunch break at 1:00 Fee: $55.00 To sign up for this class please email Connie at: connie@isbjorn.com. Class Limit: 6 people

Sunday February 27th Class: Beginning Collage 1 Where: Palace Arts in Capitola Instructor: Connie Andrews Class description: Using the principles of composition we will explore ways to break through artistic barriers to discover the infinite possibilities of you! We will start by learning about: Art surfaces, Mediums and acrylic paints. We will then progress to simple backgrounds and finally create a small collage using the techniques and principles discussed in class. Items to bring: scissors and paintbrushes. All other materials are supplied including a folder of instructions and a large collage pack of papers and found objects to use in class or take home. Sunday March 27th Beginning Collage part 2 ****Note- you must have Part 1 to take this class***** Instructor: Connie Andrews Class Description: In this continuation of beginning collage 1, we will begin by creating 3 more backgrounds that get progressively more textured. We will then explore composition in more depth and finish our collages using all the tricks and techniques learned from both classes. Every student will get another collage pack of papers and found objects to use in class or take home. Items to bring: Please bring paintbrushes and scissors and your instruction folder and collages from part 1, all other materials will be supplied. Class times: 11:00 to 4:00pm Lunch break at 1:00 Fee: $120.00 for the series Class size limit: 8 To sign up for this class please call Palace Arts at 831 464-2700

Wow! Check out my students work

2011-01-30T22:03:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I was just reporting in about my Altered Vintage postcard class yesterday. The student work was so astounding that I couldn't wait to show you all. The first card above was done by Jolene. I just love the humour in this card. It kind of makes me want to get up and dance around the Leaning tower in a polka dot shirt too! All that is missing is the guy playing the accordion. Just look at the painting on the tower with that blue sky and clouds all around. Great work.

This is Karen's very romantic post card. Karen has done some very beautiful subtle painting on this piece. I love the blue green patina colors on the metallic border and also on the grass. This would make an awesome Valentine's day card. I love the way the woman's dress mimics the butterflies wings.

This is Maureen's Paris Postcard. Maureen has totally captured that Romantic Parisian mood. The work on the sky and clouds is just yummy. Gee I wish I was going to Paris!

This is Debbie's card. It says Pride and Prejudice all the way. Debbie's painting on the trees and foliage is incredible. And look at that water. You can just see the sun's glinting off of it.

This is Erica's card. It's very Nick Bantock. There's great texture on this piece that my small photographic skills didn't capture very well. But you can see it in the sky. And if I was that guy I'd get down off that rock! If he happens to fall in that position he may be injured for life! Not to mention he might get eaten by the fish!

Well what do you think? Aren't these great pieces?

Altering Vintage Postcards

2011-01-28T15:24:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone, Tomorrow I begin a new class: Altering Vintage Postcards! I am totally addicted to the new techniques we will be using in class tomorrow. Whats different about this class you ask? Well, Instead of using regular acrylic paints we will be experimenting with Acrylic Gouache. To do this we will be using Holbein Acyla 5 color mixing sets. This gouache is opaque like all gouache but also stays "open" longer so that you can spread the paint around and play with it a little more. Since there are only 5 colors in a set you not only get experience with gouache but also in color mixing. I have set up a little exercise for the students tomorrow so that they get experience using the paint and also do a little color mixing before we start on our postcards. I will also be introducing a technique that will be new for many of my students Its called scumbling. In scumbling you put a very thin layer of white gouache over your collage. This soften the outlines on the card so that you can alter the card to your satisfaction by over painting. Once the painting is done you can then add rubber stamping, Victorian scrap and vintage postcards to make the card really special. No kidding guys altering these postcards is a blast. You can then use the postcards to make cards to send to loved ones, book marks or even frame them and hang them up. My class tomorrow is full but if you are interested in taking this class I will be teaching it again on February 12th at Scrap it in Santa Cruz and at C. Andrews studio on Feb 13th. If you wish to sign up for the class you can email me at connie@isbjorn.com I have included more samples below. I hope you enjoy them.

Hey I can solder!

2011-01-24T12:04:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone! I had the most wonderful class yesterday given by Ingrid Pomeroy at C.Andrews studio. And I actually soldered! I had soldered once before, two years ago but I am pretty shaky about the whole soldering thing. But with Ingrid's excellent help I actually made it through an intermediate class I probably shouldn't have been in. For this class we made double sided clock glass hangings. They are about 3 1/2 inches around. Ingrid provided the beautiful Madonna and angel images that were the theme of this class. The clock glass is convex so you can place 3D type elements under glass. They remind me of those very ornamental items that the Victorian ladies made. So on my first side I decided that I wanted to reproduce that highly decorated Victorian look complete with silver and gold leaves, pearls and Rhinestones. You can see this side above.

This is my second side and this time I included a simpler collage with an angel image. I love the pastel blue-green paper that Ingrid provided with her supplies and couldn't resist it. After we collaged then it was time to solder. I have to admit I'm not great with hot irons and solder but I did manage to make an ornament that won't fall apart tomorrow.

I really love making these type of ornaments. They just feel like precious treasures to me. They are something that I can keep for years as an heirloom type item and also if I wanted to make another one it would make a very special gift for family or friends.

This was really a fun class. Ingrid brought most of the supplies. All we had to bring was a soldering iron. She even had treats for us! To top it off Susan Morgan from Elegant Cheesecakes ( www.elegantcheesecakes.com) brought by some strawberry Pistachio cake for us to share-sheer heaven!

Just one more great class at C.Andrews Studio.

To contact Ingrid you can email her at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com.

ABC Club swap #6

2011-01-19T10:15:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone, Yes I am still among the living but have been busy working on my new classes, new ideas and my altered book club swap. This time the swap took a little more consideration and thought because of the subject. I received Karen's book for our 6th swap. You can see the cover above. The book is called Adventures in Art and Karen is asking for her fellow artist's advice and help. Karen believes that her art in her words is just "nice". Her art is sweet, detailed and predictable. She wants to be "Bold, Brave, Fearless and maybe a little dangerous. Personally I don't see her art this way but I can certainly understand the need to stretch her wings a little. I can understand the hunger and was determined to really try and help with a suggestion or two. But what to tell her? Karen wants a little edge to her art and was looking for it by experimenting with texture in her collage. As I studied the art that Karen created in my book it looked like she achieved everything she wanted by using texture and collage. The work is exquisite. It dawned on me that Karen doesn't need any advice when playing with texture and color. She's a fine artist that knows exactly what to do. In my book, her art had added texture but was still a "sweet, beautiful "collage-still in the style that she is looking to change. So my advice to her is to take it by subject first. What is the flip side to the beautiful woman in the meadow? While considering how to give this advice my inner Art Geek bloomed into a nice little weed. In this case a truly bad poem wrote itself in my head one day. I really tried to silence it but it wouldn't go away. All I could do is to add it to poor Karen's book with some art to illustrate it. Below you can see the art and I will reprint the text/advice below each picture. Ok here goes:

"So you want to be bold and dangerous too?

"If this is truly your wish here's my advice for you."

"A mermaid my be beautiful but she's dangerous too,

A ghost may be frightening but was a person like you."

"Add some spatter, some drips and a large skull,

They say Memento Mori, a warning to all."

" Life's not always pretty, rosy or sweet,

It's Ok to show it, who cares what we think?

Life has a duality pretty pictures can't hide,

And as an artist remember that beauty comes from inside." This last collage is a Karen door. Since I don't have Karen's OK to show her face on my blog the picture above shows the door open representing the beauty inside her.

We all want to create beauty with our art. But that's just not life. If we are to be artists and " hold the mirror up to nature" as Shakespeare says then we must address both the dark and light within us all. My thought, respectfully, is that if Karen wants to be truly bold then she should address the darker side once in awhile. I am in hopes that when she does this everything she was hoping to change in her art will fall right into place.

And for the record: No-I am not a poet and I definately know it.

Connie-over and out.

My Schedule for January

2011-01-05T20:54:00.001-08:00

Welcome everyone! I know that I have already posted the studio schedule however I will be teaching my classes at two other venues for the month of January as well. I am basically teaching two different classes this month. Beginning in about a week and a half I will be reoffering my Dream Guardians class in two locations. You can see an example above and also below. At the end of the month I will be offering a new class: Altered Vintage Postcards with Acrylic Gouache. Here are the details:

Saturday January 15th Class: Dream Guardians Location: Scrap-it in Santa Cruz Description: Sometimes we need a guardian so that our dreams do not get forgotten amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this class we will be creating our own guardian using Antique doll heads and wire. We will learn to make the wire dress form doll and then adorn it with antique lace, fabric, and trims. We will then add charms and found objects that symbolize our deepest dreams and wishes. Items to bring: any personal charms, found objects, lace and fabric that you would like on your doll. I will have some with me but you will need to augment and personalize this. Time: 11:00 to 4:00pm Lunch break at about 1:30 Fee: $65.00 Class Limit 4 To sign up for this class please call Scrap It at: at 831 475-2380 Sunday January 16th

Location: C.Andrews Studio- Princeton by the Sea Class: Dream Guardians ****Being offered again to those that could not take the first class**** Description: Sometimes we need a guardian so that our dreams do not get forgotten amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this class we will be creating our own guardian using Antique doll heads and wire. We will learn to make the wire dress form doll and then adorn it with antique lace, fabric, and trims. We will then add charms and found objects that symbolize our deepest dreams and wishes. Items to bring: any personal charms, found objects, lace and fabric that you would like on your doll. I will have some with me but you will need to augment and personalize this. Time: 10:00 to 3:30pm Lunch break at about 1:30 Fee: $65.00 Class Limit 4 To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Saturday January 22nd Class: Altered Vintage postcards with Acrylic Gouache Location: Art Max in Seaside Description: Foreign Vintage post cards with their evocative images make beautiful backgrounds for collage. Plus any old postmark, cancelled stamp or writing already on the postcard just adds to the visual interest. So that all these elements mix together harmoniously we will be softening the outlines with a process called Scumbling. To” scumble” is to add a thin layer of white acrylic gouache and then repaint so that all your added elements will match. The surface takes on the look of a painted fresco but still allows the background elements to be seen. To get used to the acrylic gouache the first hour of class will be a color mixing lesson in which every student will prepare an elementary color wheel to take home for future use. Items to bring: scissors, any background rubberstamps you might like to use, various small paintbrushes (Make sure to bring a couple of liners), and a number 4 short bristled filbert brush. If you do not have a filbert brush I will have some available to purchase for a small fee of $5.00 per brush. Time: 11:00 to 4:00 Fee: $ 55.00 + $5.00 if you buy a brush If you wish to sign up for this class please email me at connie@isbjorn.com Class Limit:6 Saturday January 29th

Location: C.Andrews Studio-Princeton by the Sea Class: Altered Vintage postcards with Acrylic Gouache Description: Foreign Vintage post cards with their evocative images make beautiful backgrounds for collage. Plus any old postmark, cancelled stamp or writing already on the postcard just adds to the visual interest. So that all these elements mix together harmoniously we will be softening the outlines with a process called Scumbling. To” scumble” is to add a thin layer of white acrylic gouache and then repaint so that all your added elements will match. The surface takes on the look of a painted fresco but still allows the background elements to be seen. To get used to the acrylic gouache the first hour of class will be a color mixing lesson in which every student will prepare an elementary color wheel to take home for future use. Items to bring: scissors, any background rubberstamps you might like to use, various small paintbrushes (Make sure to bring a couple of liners), and a number 4 short bristled filbert brush. If you do not have a filbert brush I will have some available to purchase for a small fee of $5.00 per brush. Time: 10:00 to 3:30 Fee: $ 55.00 + $5.00 if you buy a brush If you wish to sign up for this class please email me at connie@isbjorn.com Class Limit:6 See you in Class!

January classes

2011-01-01T09:38:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

To me there's no better way to start the New Year than with some Art. And with that in mind I have posted the C.Andrews Studio class calendar . Everyone here is ready to create and we are starting the New Year with some great classes. If you click on the schedule above you should be able to see a larger version you can actually read. Here are the classes and details. Saturday, January 15 Class: Journal your Intentions ***NEW CLASS*** Instructor: Maria Ontiveros Class Description: Interested in learning about art journaling, book binding or striving to find a way to art journal more regularly? Curious about the difference between resolutions, intentions and "one little word"? If so, read on to learn more about my new art journaling class . . . We'll start by discussing three different ways to approach the concept of "New Year's Resolutions" and then we'll create an art journal for you to follow through with whichever approach you have chosen. This class is perfect for beginners, as well as experienced art journaling students. We'll cover two painting techniques (water colored spray inks for the inside pages and DeMeng color washes for the cover and a book binding technique (traditional copic). To help keep you on track, I'll host a monthly on-line share for those who took the class. Because we will be creating and binding a journal for this class, I have a lot of preparation to do. As a result, I need to get a firm number of class participants by Tuesday, January 11 and the class will be limited to eight students. So, if you're interested, please email me to sign up sooner rather than later. It's going to be great fun! Time: 9:30 to2:30pm Cost: $50 +$5 material fee. 10% discount for first-timers and for those who sign up in groups of two or more. To sign up for Maria class please email Maria at rinda1961@yahoo.com

Sunday January 16th Instructor: Connie Andrews Class: Dream Guardians ****Being offered again to those that could not take the first class**** Description: Sometimes we need a guardian so that our dreams do not get forgotten amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this class we will be creating our own guardian using Antique doll heads and wire. We will learn to make the wire dress form doll and then adorn it with antique lace, fabric, and trims. We will then add charms and found objects that symbolize our deepest dreams and wishes. Items to bring: any personal charms, found objects, lace and fabric that you would like on your doll. I will have some with me but you will need to augment and personalize this. Time: 10:00 to 3:30pm Lunch break at about 1:30 Fee: $65.00 Class Limit 4 To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Sunday January 23rd Class: Soldered Vintage Clock Glass /Madonna/Angel Hangings Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy Description: This month by request, I have rescheduled the soldered clock glass class, but with an angel statue and Madonna theme. Each piece will measure approximately three to four inches in size and will have clock glass on both sides. Students must have soldering experience and bring their own soldering iron. I will provide all other materials. Time: 12:00 to 4:00pm Cost: $65.00(includes savory and sweet treats) If you wish to sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com

Wednesday January 26th Instructor: Cindy McCool Class: Thank You Cards/Valentine Day Cards Description: Just in time to acknowledge all those nifty gifts and kind gestures of the holidays we will be doing "Thank You cards". We will also make some Valentine cards for your special someone. Actually, these cards lend themselves to any message you want to include. The holidays remind me of how thankful I am for my health and my wonderful friends and family. What better way to show your appreciation and love than with a handmade card. Come relax and make cards with me at C.Andrews Studio. Items to bring: Your basic tool kit, or just detail scissors and glue, all else will be provided. Time: 6:00 to 9:00 pm Fee: $25.00 To sign up for this class please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com.

Saturday January 29th Instructor: Connie Andrews ****New Class*** Class: Altered Vintage postcards with Acrylic Gouache Description: Foreign Vintage post cards with their evocative images make beautiful backgrounds for collage. Plus any old postmark, cancelled stamp or writing already on the postcard just adds to the visual interest. So that all these elements mix together harmoniously we will be softening the outlines with a process called Scumbling. To” scumble” is to add a thin layer of white acrylic gouache and then repaint so that all your added elements will match. The surface takes on the look of a painted fresco but still allows the background elements to be seen. To get used to the acrylic gouache the first hour of class will be a color mixing lesson in which every student will prepare an elementary color wheel to take home for future use. Items to bring: scissors, any background rubberstamps you might like to use, various small paintbrushes (Make sure to bring a couple of liners), and a number 4 short bristled filbert brush. If you do not have a filbert brush I will have some available to purchase for a small fee of $5.00 per brush. Time: 10:00am to 3:30pm Cost: $55.00 + $5.00 if you purchase a filbert brush Class size limit: 6 If you wish to sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com Other Events in January At C.Andrews Studio Sunday January 9th Open studio Altered Book Club work day Description: You can work on anything on this day but the emphasis is on your altered book club swap. Come and work in the company of kindred spirits. 11:00 to 4:00 pm or whenever we decide to leave $10.00 Wednesday January 19th Altered Books Club Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm Fee: $10.00 per person Also offered at the studio Private studio time – This is for artists and art groups looking to rent studio space to work or to get together during the week-the times and fees are to be arranged on an individual basis. If you are interested in private studio time please email me at connie@isbjorn.com. Open Studio- This is studio time open to everyone for only $10.00 per day. Open studios is available every Friday evening and on the weekends when no classes are being offered. Please note that to use the studio you must arrange this with me in advance. Just email me at connie@isbjorn.com and let me know you would like to use it. Open studio for the month of January will be on the following dates: January 2nd, January 7th, January 9th, January 14th, January 21st, January 28th and January 30th.

C.Andrews Studio is located at 103-1 Harvard Street, Princeton by the Sea. If you need directions please email me at connie@isbjorn.com

See you at the Studio!

2010-12-25T08:32:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas !

Altered Books Club swap #5

2010-12-15T10:40:00.000-08:00

Greetings Everyone!

I finally finished my 5th offering for the Altered Book Club swap. Just in time as the December meeting is tonight. Yikes!

This time I have Maria's book: Rennaisance Faire. Its wierd because Maria teaches great journalling classes and I found myself unconsciously tapping into some of the journalling techniques she has taught me. It also helped that this book is almost like a scrapbook for me.

When I look at all the other offerings so far I see Romance, great artists, jewel tones and gold everywhere. All the things that would pop in a person's mind when they think about the Renaissance right? Unless of course you are or have been a participant in one of the many local Renaissance Faires as I have. I see it a little more earthy that most. I started out in high school and college ( a very long time ago now) and continued on for a few years when I lived in the Cental Valley. I have been a musician, street performer, guild member and craftsperson. Since these faires take place around the time of Henry the eighth and Elizabeth I most of my knowledge is centered around this time period in England. The Elizabethan age was full of life, color and excitement not to mention evil smells and bawdy language. It seems alive as no other age has been since. I thought all of this was always captured best by the Renaissance Pleasure Faire in Novato. The Novato Faire is now extinct but it opened in the mornings in glorious pagentry and closed at night with the color and excitement intact. I wanted my spread to reflect this yet still keep it real and immediate. In the morning the workers would wet down the powdery dirt throughout the oak forest. This fragrent earthy smell mingled with the smell of cooking food and made your mouth water for steamed artichokes, mushroom pies and churros. On the first page of my spread above I show the opening parade amidst the colors, symbols and traditions of the old English Faires. A lovely peasant lady rounds out the collage with a cup of Ale to toast your partaking of the riches of the shire. And of course no Renaissance Faire experience could be complete without a visit from Queen Elizabeth. You can see her in the second page and it was not for nothing that she was named Gloriana. "See how the Queen doth carouse!"

If you've never experienced a Renaissance Faire, make an effort next year and attend one. Step back into history for just a day and you will come out with a whole new perspective.

Huzzah! God Save the Queen!

A lovely surprise

2010-12-08T08:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon I received a wonderful surprise in the mail: a copy of Somerset Gallery with my spotlighted Christmas Dominos. This is the best Christmas present I could have received. I want to acknowledge Stampington and Somerset studio for bothering to publish art in their magazine. Most magazines don't do this. But Stampington has made artist submissions the heart of their publications. As a realtivly unknown artist it not only makes me feel glorious but is a great spur to continue to move forward as an artist. So thanks again Stampington!

December class schedule

2010-12-06T10:31:00.001-08:00

Greetings everyone!

Its the beginning of week and I am way past due in getting this schedule on the blog. C.Andrews studio is offering some incredible classes this month. Here's a look at them:

Saturday December 11th Class: Soldered Vintage Clock Glass Ornaments (Madonna/Angel Ornaments) Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy Description: I will be teaching a soldered clock glass Christmas ornament class. We will create as many ornaments as we can during class time. Each ornament will measure approximately three inches in size and will have clock glass on both sides. Items to bring: Students must have soldering experience and bring their own soldering iron. Time: 1:00 to 4:30pm Fee: $65.00 (sweet treats included) Class size limit: 5 If you wish to sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com

Sunday December 12th **** Maria’s Double Class****** Class: Photo Walk in the Princeton Warehouse District Instructor: Maria Ontiveros Description: Meet at C.Andrews Studio for a one hour guided photo walk in the neighborhood. We'll focus on interesting still life possibilities, as well as potential portrait locations. Maria will be available to answer your questions about appropriate camera settings and how they will impact your finished photograph. Afterward, we'll go back to the studio for a cup of coffee and a review of the morning's photographs. Items to bring: your digital camera (point and shoot or DSLR). Time: 9:30 am- 11am Fee: $15.00 Class: Winter Solstice Nichos featuring DeMeng Color Washes Description: Working in a plaster nicho or altar, we'll be creating a three dimensional assemblage to celebrate Christmas, Hanukah, Yule or other Winter Solstice event. We'll create a small tag book of Michael DeMeng's amazing color wash backgrounds to help you paint your nicho. Then we'll fill our shabby chic shadow boxes with items representing either a vintage Christmas, a traditional Hanukah, a religious Christmas or a Celtic or Aztec Solstice Celebration. Items to bring: brushes, acrylic paints (if you own them) and any small assemblage items representing the Winter Celebration of your choice. I will have plenty of assemblage items and adhesives to share as well. Time: 12 noon - 4:00 pm Fee: $50.00 (10% discount for newcomers or for people who sign up in groups of two or more) Class Limit: 6 To sign up for one or both of Maria classes please email Maria at rinda1961@yahoo.com

Sunday December 19th Instructor: Connie Andrews Class: Dream Guardians Description: Sometimes we need a guardian so that our dreams do not get forgotten amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this class we will be creating our own guardian using Antique doll heads and wire. We will learn to make the wire dress form doll and then adorn it with antique lace, fabric, and trims. We will then add charms and found objects that symbolize our deepest dreams and wishes. Items to bring: any personal charms, found objects, lace and fabric that you would like on your doll. I will have some with me but you will need to augment and personalize this. Time: 10:00 to 3:30pm Fee: $65.00 Class Limit 6 To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Tuesday December 21, 2010 Instructor: Cindy McCool Class: Thank You Cards Description: Just in time to acknowledge all those nifty gifts and kind gestures of the holidays we will be doing "Thank You cards". Actually, these cards lend themselves to any message you want to include, but were designed around being thankful. The holidays remind me of how thankful I am for my health and my wonderful friends and family. What better way to show your appreciation than with a handmade card. Come relax and make cards with me at C.Andrews Studio. Items to bring: Your basic tool kit, or just detail scissors and glue, all else will be provided. Time: 6:00 to 9:00 pm Fee: $25.00 To sign up for this class please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com. Other Events in December Wednesday December 15th Altered Books Club Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm Fee: $10.00 per person Also offered at the studio Private studio time – This is for artists and art groups looking to rent studio space to work or to get together during the week-the times and fees are to be arranged on an individual basis. If you are interested in private studio time please email me at connie@isbjorn.com. Open Studio- This is studio time open to everyone for only $10.00 per day. Open studios is available every Friday evening and on the weekends when no classes are being offered. Please note that to use the studio you must arrange this with me 24 hours in advance. Just email me at connie@isbjorn.com and let me know you would like to use it. Open studio for the month of December will be on the following dates: December 3rd, 4th, 10th, 17th, and 18th. Also if you would like to take my Dream Guardians class but cannot make it to the studio I will be teaching this class in two other locations. Here are the details: Saturday December 11th Where: Scrap-it in Santa Cruz Class: Dream Guardians Description: Sometimes we need a guardian so that our dreams do not get forgotten amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this class we will be creating our own guardian using Antique doll heads and wire. We will learn to make a wire dress form doll and then adorn it with antique lace, fabric, and trims. We will then add charms and found objects that symbolize our deepest dreams and wishes. Items to bring: any personal charms, found objects, lace and fabric that you would like on your doll. I will have some with me but you will need to augment and personalize this. Time: 11:00 to 4:00pm Fee: $65.00 Class size limit: 4 If you wish to sign up for this class please call Scrap-it at 831 475-2380 Saturday December 18th Where: Art Max in Seaside Class: Dream Guardians Description: Sometimes we need a guardian so that our dreams do not get forgotten amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this class we will be creating our own guardian using Antique doll heads and wire. We will learn to make the wire dress form doll and then adorn it with antique lace, fabric, and trims. We will then add charms and found objects that symbolize our deepest dreams and wishes. Items to bring: any personal charms, found objects, lace and fabric that you would like on your doll. I will have some with me but you will need to augment and personalize this. Time: 11:00 to 4:00pm Fee: $65.00 Class size limit: 8 Note: this class will start promptly at 11:00 so that we can finish on time and not keep the staff overtime. To sign up for this class please email me at connie@isbjorn.com.

I hope to see you soon!

Working....working.....working...working....working...

2010-12-03T20:12:00.000-08:00

Greetings everyone! As you can see I've been busy working and creating for the Artisan Faire on Sunday. I thought that a little preview of some of the work that I will be offering for sale was in order.

Cards and tags

Shrink Art collage collage and more collage

dominos(of course)

Bottled Spirits

Altoid tin Pocket Shrines

If you are looking for unique gift items the Artisan Faire is the place to find it. Even if you are not buying this Christmas (I totally understand) come by anyway and say hello. Get out of the house for a couple of hours, browse and have a plate of yummies from the treat table and get to know some of the wonderful local artists. Its going to be a blast!

See you Sunday!

Holiday Artisan Faire Sunday December 5th

2010-11-28T20:13:00.000-08:00

Good Evening everyone! Can you believe that its almost Christmas?! Haven't even started shopping for gifts yet? Don't know what to give that Mom who has everything? How about shopping at the Artisan Faire next Sunday in Half Moon Bay? I and many other local artists will be offering unique and one of a kind items for that special person. This year I will be offering some very different pieces for sale. How about spending the day on the coast next sunday? Shop all day and then take a load off, relax and have dinner at one of our many very fine resturants. How great is that? The Artisan Faire is located at Studio 4 Pilates, 213 San Mateo road, Half Moon Bay. Time: 11am to 4:00pm. No entry fee. I hope to see you there!

Queen Of Dreams

2010-11-26T20:32:00.001-08:00

Good Evening everyone! I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. Can you believe that I actually cooked a whole turkey this year?! I have cooked turkey parts many times but never the whole thing with stuffing and all the works. It was just the four of us this year. I, the hubby and the two dogs. And you bet they made sure to get as many turkey treats as possible. Dinner turned out yummy-if I do say so myself. I have also been busy making items for the Artisan faire in Half Moon Bay on December 5th. Stay tuned for more about this next week. Another thing that I have been working on is my December class. I really wanted to do something different for a change. I've had an idea about how to make a dressform doll ever since I won some antique doll heads on ebay almost two years ago. I thought that this would be a special class to teach for Christmas. This class is a weird synthesis of assemblage and doll making. It will also mark my return to some form of doll making. I call this doll the Queen of Dreams because attached to her skirt are symbols of some of my hopes and dreams for my art. You can see the full doll below.

I'm pretty happy with this first sample. However I need to shorten the working time for this class. I have some ideas of how to do this which will make the wire skirt form a little neater in the bargin. You can see that the wire form is a little uneven. Even so I kind of like it. It suggests age and history. I really love the fabric that I used on the doll. Its a remnant of a dress dated about 1900 to 1910 and loaded with beads and sequins.

So what do you think about my little dream Queen? I'd love to hear your opinion.

Altered Books Club swap #4

2010-11-17T15:43:00.000-08:00

Greetings everyone! Well tonight is ABC club and we are onto the fourth book.This time I chose to create two much simpler spreads. I thought that it was most appropriate for my theme. This month I have Jolene's book about "Traveling People". Most everyone that has altered a spread before me has chosen the subject of Gypsies. And while I'm sure that Gypsies are fascinating people and well worth studying, when I think of "Traveling People" what comes to my mind is the American Pioneer. Probably because I am of pioneering stock. This spread began with an old photo passed down to me of my grandmother's family in the Homestead. Now the family story passed down is that this land was acquired in the second Oklahoma Land Rush of 1891. That's kind of cool so I decided to base this first spread on this picture. Now you must also understand that at the same time that I started work on this spread Ancestry.com just happened to offer me "a 14 day free trial"! How did they know? I'm sure you can see where this has gone. Yes I now have an ancestry.com account, have spent hours tracing my family tree and visited several grave sites in Modesto looking for more information. The good news is that I did trace two family lines back to the dates they came to this country from England at about 1635 or so. Anyway to get back to the spread I have collaged a very cool picture of a wagon train over both pages. I really wanted the viewer to feel the emptiness of the country. I also wanted to convey how self sufficient the pioneers were and the hardships they endured to find a better life. In particular I was fascinated by the woman's role. So to give the viewer just a little taste of what a woman's life was like on the overland trail I have added a little booklet with 8 amazing pictures and 6 woman's pioneering facts. You can see the cover below.

Booklet cover showing a wagon train. Can you imagine the dirt and dust everything must have been coated with? Yeach!

One of the interesting little tidbits I found that I have to say I never really thought about. It reads:

Toilet facilities along the trail were nothing more than communal ditches. The full skirts worn by most pioneer woman acted as shields or " curtains of modesty" for this purpose. Now you know why they continued to wear long skirts instead of the more comfortable and convenient bloomer outfit! Gack!

My little booklet fits behind my grandmother's homestead which I have made into a pocket for that purpose.

I also included a quote from one of the pioneering books that I read. I believe that its from one of the woman's diaries:

It reads:" We finally reached our new home. Out here on the lonely prairie we reached to the stars through the wilderness."

You can see my last spread above. Again I wanted the viewer to feel the breathe and emptiness of the prairie. I also wanted to emphasize how lonely it must have been for a woman particularly a woman alone miles away from the nearest town or homestead. The text is from one of my favorite Louis Lamour westerns. It reads: The wind whipped her skirt, and she saw one of the silent riders of the wind (a tumbleweed) roll by not very far away.

Maybe...off to the south somewhere...maybe there was somebody down there as lonely as she was, somebody whose thoughts reached out into the emptiness of the night, longing, yearning... alone. By the way 15% percent of the Homesteaders were woman alone either single or widowed. If your husband died along the trail a woman was expected to continue.

One of the things I realized after all the research I did for these spreads was that feminism had its roots right here. As woman traveled west it was necessary for them to step out of their traditional role for the first time. For the first time a woman was expected to do much more than just cook and clean. They also tended the stock, harnessed the wagon teams, and even branded their own cattle .

I feel proud that I am the ancestor of such brave and resilient people. I feel humbled by their strength and determination. I only hope that in some small way I can live up to the hardships they endured so that their children and their children's children could find a better life.

Colony of Coastside Artists Open Studios this weekend!

2010-11-11T15:30:00.000-08:00

Greetings Everyone! This Saturday C.Andrews Studio will be participating in a studio tour with the Colony of Coastside Artists group. There will be 6 studios participating in the tour with some of the studios open both Saturday and Sunday. At C.Andrews studio Ingrid, Maria and I will be there all day to greet you! The event starts at 11:00am and goes until 4:00 pm. Come by and get a map to the other locations, have a yummy and buy some art. This is the perfect time to buy unique gifts items at great prices for all your favorite friends and family members. Below you will see just a few of the pieces that I will be selling along with Domino and shrink art jewelry!

She came back home. Aubergine Dreams

Skull de los Muertos

A heaping spoonful of mortality

Vincent Van Skull

The Spirit of Romance

Bottled "Gin"

And this is just some of the items that I will be including on Saturday. Just think of what Ingrid and Maria might bring!

See you at the studio.

Classes for November

2010-11-03T06:45:00.001-07:00

Greetings Everyone! Can you believe that its November and that are heading into the Holidays already? In any case I am definately late posting my November schedules. Above you can see the schedule for C.Andrews studio. You should be able to enlarge the picture by clicking on it. Here are the class details for the month of November.

Sunday November 7th Class: Bottled Spirits Instructor: Connie Andrews Description: On a foggy day I was walking along the beach on one of my morning rambles. As usual I was beach combing for shells that I had picked up a hundred times before and didn’t need. But this time instead of a shell I found something else. As I drew closer I could see it was a bottle half buried in the sand. I dug it out. It was crusted with barnacles, small shells and ringed with rusted metal. As I turned it around I noticed a clear area where I could peer through the hazy glass. But wait something looked back at me! What will your spirit be? Will it be a fairy of dreams offering you 3 wishes? Or will it be an imp of mischief? Items to bring: A pair of scissors, paintbrushes and small non-melting items like charms or beads. **Note: We will be heating diamond glaze so if you are easily susceptible to smells this class may be difficult for you to take. Time: 10:00 to 3:00pm- Lunch break at 1:00 Fee: $55.00 If you wish to sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Saturday Nov. 13th Colony of Coastside Artists Studio Tour and sale Description: This is a Studio tour in conjunction with the Colony of Coastside Artists. This is your chance to buy Art from your favorite artists before the Holiday season starts! We will be offering all our newest stuff so come by and say hello, have a snack and take a load off before the Holiday madness starts. Participants: Connie, Ingrid, Maria. Free entry Time: 11:00 to 4:00pm

More on this event to come!

Sunday November 14th Class: Beeswax collage Instructor: Ingrid Pomeroy Description: By popular demand, I will be teaching a beeswax collage on an 8 x 10 canvas with a Steampunk theme, or vintage theme, if you prefer. I have attached a few examples of beeswax and canvas collages. Here are the details Items to bring: All materials will be supplied Time: 1:00 to 4:00pm Fee: $50.00 (sweet treats included) If you wish to sign up for this class please email Ingrid at ipomeroy@peoplepc.com

Saturday November 20th **** Maria’s Double Class****** Class Photo Walk in the Princeton Warehouse District Instructor: Maria Ontiveros Description: Meet at C.Andrews Studio for a one hour guided photo walk in the neighborhood. We'll focus on interesting still life possibilities, as well as potential portrait locations. Maria will be available to answer your questions about appropriate camera settings and how they will impact your finished photograph. Afterward, we'll go back to the studio for a cup of coffee and a review of the morning's photographs. Items to bring: your digital camera (point and shoot or DSLR). Time: 9:30 am- 11am Fee: $15.00

Class: Christmas Art Journal Description: Working with great new papers from Kaiser Craft of Australia, we'll create an art journal to record ten favorite holiday memories from Christmases past or present. Items to bring: a pair of scissors, but the following could be helpful if you have them: glue; bone folder; heat tool; and dark green and/or dark brown ink for edging. If you want to bring photos to include, they should be small (2" circles or squares). Time: 12 noon - 4:00 pm Fee: $45. To sign up for one or both of Maria classes please email Maria at rinda1961@yahoo.com Sunday November 21st Class: Collage Challenge II Instructor: Connie Andrews Description: Are you up for another challenge? Tee Hee! Yes I’m doing it again! In this class you will be creating a 9 X 12 collage on the subject of my choice (oh the power!). But you won’t know the subject until the day of the class! The main focus of this class will be visualization and jump starting your imagination. You can choose any background you want with the materials that I bring. I will also supply the images. Don’t worry, I will have all the instructions with me in case you forget our earlier beginning collage techniques. Items to bring: Please bring a pair of scissors, paintbrushes, matte Gel medium and any embellishments you would like. All other materials will be supplied. Time: 10:00 to 4:00pm Lunch break at 12:00 Fee: $55.00 *****Note: This Challenge is for intermediate to advanced collage students only or students with prior collage experience***** To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Wednesday November 23rd Class: Christmas Cards Instructor: Cindy McCool Description: You know you have been dying to send handmade cards for Christmas but just never seem to get around to it. So come join Cindy and see how simple, yet elegant handmade Christmas cards can be. Now is the time to get started and have a fresh batch of handmade cards ready to share with your list of special people. In this electronic age, people cherish mail and handmade cards are always a plus in anybody’s mail box. Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm Fee: $25.00 To sign up for this class please email Cindy at cindy@mccoolmgt.com

I also will be teaching at two other locations for the month of November and here are the details: Saturday November 6th Where: Scrap-it in Santa Cruz Class: Bottled Spirits Description: On a foggy day I was walking along the beach on one of my morning rambles. As usual I was beach combing for shells that I had picked up a hundred times before and didn’t need. But this time instead of a shell I found something else. As I drew closer I could see it was a bottle half buried in the sand. I dug it out. It was crusted with barnacles, small shells and ringed with rusted metal. As I turned it around I noticed a clear area where I could peer through the hazy glass. But wait something looked back at me! What will your spirit be? Will it be a fairy of dreams offering you 3 wishes? Or will it be an imp of mischief? Items to bring: A pair of scissors, paintbrushes and small non-melting items like charms or beads. **Note: We will be heating diamond glaze so if you are easily susceptible to smells this class may be difficult for you to take. Time: 11:00 to 4:00 Fee: $55.00 Class limit: 5 If you would like to sign up for this class please call Scrap-it at 831 475-2380 Saturday November 20th Where: Art Max in Seaside Class: Collage Challenge II Description: Are you up for another challenge? Yes I’m doing it again! In this class you will be creating a 9 X 12 collage on the subject of my choice. But you won’t know the subject until the day of the class! The main focus of this class will be visualization and jump starting your imagination. You can choose any background you want with the materials that I bring. I will also supply the images. Don’t worry, I will have all the instructions with me in case you forget our earlier beginning collage techniques. Items to bring: Please bring a pair of scissors, paintbrushes, matte Gel medium and any embellishments you would like. All other materials will be supplied. Time: 11:00-4:00 Fee: $55.00 *****Note: This Challenge is for intermediate to advanced collage students only or students that have some collage experience***** To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com Class size limit=7

Well that's the line up for the month of November. It's going to be another wonderful month full of classes that can rival anything you can find at an art retreat. C.Andrews Studio is located at 103-1 Harvard st., Princeton-by-the-Sea -4 miles north of Half Moon Bay. How about a mini vacation? Take a class, take a walk on the beach, have a nice dinner at one of our excellent resturants here on the coast and drive home with a glow. You deserve it!

See you soon.

I'm out of my Skull!

2010-11-01T10:37:00.000-07:00

I just had to show everyone some of the incredible skulls created this weekend at the last skeleton Portraits class. Aren't they great? I couldn't believe the range. We had the delicate Victorian skull you see above...

This great skull scream...

Good Queen Skullabeth I...

And Frieda Skuhlo. The two skull monkeys are cute (not!)

What more could you ask out of life than a good skull?

Wow!!!! Look at the Skulls!

2010-10-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone! I had to show you the skulls from both classes this weekend. Have you ever seen so many different skulls? There are Frieda skulls to a Goth Chick Skull to a demure Victorian skull to a rasta dude! There was even a Venus rising from the ocean skull unfortunately my picture didn't turn out so I am unable to show it to you. Guys this class has been an absolute blast. This is an amazingly freeing project. One in which the only limits are your imagination. And yes the skulls jokes were flying all day long. Take a peak at the rest of the skulls below.

If you wish that you could have taken this class you still can! I will be teaching Skeleton Portraits one last time this Saturday. I still have a couple of spaces left in the class. Here are the details:

Saturday October 30th Instructor: Connie Andrews Class: Skeleton Portraits Description: Doesn’t everyone love a good skeleton at Halloween? In this whimsical holiday class we will combine, collage images, gesso, molding paste and acrylic paints with 3-D skulls to make dimensional skeleton portraits on small stretched canvases. Mona skull-Lisa anyone? Items to bring: Please bring scissors and paintbrushes all other materials will be supplied. Time: 10:00am to 2:30pm Fee: $45.00 To sign up for this class please email Connie at connie@isbjorn.com

Skulls, Skulls and more Skulls!

2010-10-22T20:14:00.001-07:00

Yes its 3-D Skulls all weekend long!

How did I do it? Oh No you're going to have to come to class to find out! Here's where I'll be: Saturday October 23rd Where: Art Max in Seaside Class: Skeleton Portraits Description: Doesn’t everyone love a good skeleton at Halloween? In this whimsical holiday class we will combine, collage images, gesso, molding paste and acrylic paints with 3-D skulls to make dimensional skeleton portraits on small stretched canvases. Mona skull-Lisa anyone? Items to bring: Please bring scissors and paintbrushes all other materials will be supplied. Time: 11:00 to 3:30pm lunch break at 1:00pm Fee: $45.00 Class Limit: 8 To sign up for this class please email me at connie@isbjorn.com Sunday October 24th Where: Palace Arts in Capitola Class: Skeleton Portraits Description: See above Items to bring: Please bring paintbrushes and scissors Time: 11:00 to 3:30pm lunch break at 1:00pm Fee: $45.00 Class Limit: 8 To sign up for this class please call Palace Arts at 831 464-2700

Weirder and weirder, curiouser and curiouser

2010-10-20T06:41:00.001-07:00

Yes my life keeps getting weirder and weirder. I can prove it. When I left the house yesterday I discovered this creatures head in my driveway.

Here's a close up of the mangy thing.

Yep- weirder and weirder...........curiouser and curiouser

October's altered book club swap post

2010-10-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone! Yesterday I finished the final portion of my latest Altered Book Club spread. Just in time since the group meets this week. This time I received Sally's book. You can see it above. That's not a book you say? You would be correct if you were thinking of an altered book in the traditional sense. Of course this begs the question: How does one define an altered book? This cabinet which Sally made herself is quite clever because in the middle cabinet are the pages already ready gessoed and ready to go! You can see the pages below. Very out of the box or maybe I should say very out of the book.

Inside were instructions from Sally that we could make our "spread" on one of the pages or in one of the cabinet cubbies or both! Her theme is Cabinet of Wishes. We were instructed to create anything about wishes even dark ones if we must. Boy am I glad that she left that door open because the one phrase that rooted itself in my little mind was: Be careful what you wish!

Be careful what you wish suggested the duality of wishes and that's what I chose to explore.

In order to stress this duality, I chose to create a two sided altered book page. One side would be my Fantasy and the other side would be my reality. Also since wishes are so personal I chose to insert my ugly mug into the picture. So the picture above is my Fantasy. It reads: I wish for a fairy Godmother to grant me wishes. And there I am with my beautiful Fairy Godmother. I am happy. Fairy godmother is graciously granting me a wish in a Fairy Medieval Castle setting. Ahhhhhhh how wonderful. But then reality intrudes:

Here is my Reality. This is my real Fairy Godmother. Sweet isn't she? Nice bat wings. So the full text of my wish reads: I wish for a fairy Godmother to grant me wishes...or maybe not! And what does she say to me? " Ok you get one wish. And make it snappy!" Oh yeah that's what my life is really like.

Here is the wish that the fairy Godmother gave me. There are instructions that read: unstopper bottle and speak wish. It shall be granted. Not liking the look of this little wish fairy I hesitated. When I turned over the instructions I found some product warnings. The warnings read: Warning:wishes can be hazardous to your health. Do not drink. Open in a well ventilated area only. And of course the last sentence reads: Be careful what you wish.

Then and there I decided that Sally needs this wish more than I do so I have placed this gift wish in one of the cubby's. Remember Sally-Be careful what you wish!