Art Faire this Sunday!

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

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

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

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

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!

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.