Staci Rose Designs

I Am Healing

2011-02-17T09:24:00.000-08:00

It has been so long...and a long road for recovery, healing, and a little mental recovery!

I am still on that journey and look forward to returning, sharing, creating more and more each day.

While the body might inhibit, the creative spirit still burns.

Undergrad

2011-02-12T14:12:00.000-08:00

Oil on Canvas Paper - Sold

Undergrad

Joke:

What do you call a person that graduated last in his class at medical school?

Answer:

A doctor…

Clean white coats

that dish out the mud. sling the mud.

I drown in misplaced puddles

unexpectedly

tripping into them in my search for home.

for the voice that broke.

for the spine that

ruptured…the knee that shattered.

I am of Eve’s body, of cracked ribs

searching for the garden I possessed

restrained by the Rod of Asclepius.

*Staci

The Many Faces of Jasper

2009-03-16T16:15:00.000-07:00

I was very excited to see the Etsy Treasury created by a fellow etsy seller featuring Jasper! Here's a BRIEF list of the different types of Jasper commonly used in Jewelry making:

Red Jasper
Ocean Jasper
Fancy Jasper
Brecciated Jasper
Poppy Jasper
Sesame Jasper
Picasso Jasper
Picture Jasper

The Treasury will be up until Wednesday, March 18th and you can view it by clicking the image below.

Just a word to the wise: Jasper is one of those stones that can look like other stones like aventurine, charoite, agate, calcite, etc. Always be sure to ask questions if you have them and purchase your beads and jewelry from trusted sellers!

Clean & Bright

Welcome! You'll find luxurious handmade natural soaps scented with essential oils only, fun & funky soaps scented with top quality fragrance oils, herbal teas, natural perfumes, incense, aroma melts, jewelry, and coming soon candles!

Just click the banner below to be whisked away to this luxurious shop!

I Like Custom Work...Remember?

2009-03-06T15:59:00.000-08:00

And, here's more! Not only do I create picture frames to match that perfect event, but jewelry to match the perfect sentiment!

Lapis & Moonstone on Sterling Silver Chain.

Multitude of Gemstones and wood beaded Necklace & Bracelet.

Glass Eye to Ward off the Evil Eye with various glass beads.

Chalcedony faceted beads on Sterling Silver chain.

Two pairs of Mother's Earrings!
Left: Tourmaline, Peridot & Quartz.
Right: Blue Topaz & Ruby.

Please don't be shy about asking me to create custom work for you! It's true, there are some artists that do not like customized pieces - but, I say bring on a beautiful challenge!

Just Want to Share!

2009-02-16T23:43:00.000-08:00

I was very lucky to be featured in a few Etsy Treasurys, but absolutely unlucky enough to get a cold. So, I just wanted to share!

Artist Torrie Smiley created this lovely and serene Treasury with beautiful blues from fabulous artists. I was very proud to see my painting included!

And, then!!! Stephanie Baker of Old World Primitives created another wonderfully colored Treasury, absolutely fun works and a fabulous array of talents! I was very happy to see my painting included!

Etsy has such a vast amount of brilliant artists and crafts-people...I am always amazed at the work I see there and am very proud to be a part of such a supportive and talented community!

Guess What?

2009-02-04T03:28:00.000-08:00

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

I love nothing better than the idea that once each year, you celebrate the day you were born, the day you entered this world as a major event in your life and the lives of those that love you.

I decided I'd like to spend the day with my favorite person. He got me four different slices of cheesecake, we watched movies snuggling, and I tried all four slices. (Don't worry...we had cheesecake left for four days!!!)

If I miss your birthday you should know that I think it is one of the most fabulous celebrations ever and I would definitely wish you a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

WWAO February Exhibit - Flow

2009-02-01T21:43:00.000-08:00

Artist, Jean Levert Hood hosted February's WWAO online exhibit "Flow". Please, click on the images for a better view and enjoy these fabulous pieces!

I Love to Customize!

2009-01-24T02:43:00.000-08:00

I have a great imagination, if I do say so myself. I try not to mimic trends and fashions and create pieces that are true to myself. I would never create a necklace that will fall out of style in three months...I hope and believe my work extends itself through the quarrels of time.

Which is why I am excited to share a few custom orders I've completed over the last few months. I've had simple requests and tried to create pieces to suit their needs and wants. Every customer enjoyed them - which is really what makes me SO excited!!!

Love the Lighthouse:
5x7" frame with 3-D embellishments and real shells

"Hi Staci!! Just want to let you know how much E---n loves his picture frame!!! He has it sitting next to his bed. He LOVES it!! Thanks again!!" --Lori

Trees & More Trees:
4x6" frame with real twigs and "angel" leaves.

"...the...picture frame [was] extra special. Thank you!!!" --Ryan

Peter Rabbit: 5x7" frame, mixed media.

"I love this! Thank you so much for the wonderful frame. :)" --Lynda

Take it from me, customized work is fun, rewarding, and personal and in the end a meaningful piece of art to remember for a lifetime. Contact me anytime - maybe, our imaginations can come up with something wonderful!

The Butterfly Project

2009-01-17T16:10:00.000-08:00

In an effort to remember those children, Holocaust Museum Houston is collecting 1.5 million handmade butterflies. The butterflies will eventually comprise a breath-taking exhibition, currently scheduled for Spring 2012, for all to remember. As of Summer 2008, we have already collected an estimated 400,000 butterflies.

Based on the following poem, which I remember singing it when I was in high school at every Holocaust Memorial:

Here are the guidelines as set forth by the Museum:

Please facilitate the “I Never Saw Another Butterfly ” activity and create as many handmade arts-and-crafts butterflies as possible. This project may be completed by all ages as individuals or groups.

Butterflies should be no larger than 8 inches by 10 inches.
Butterflies may be of any medium the artist chooses, but two-dimensional submissions are preferred.
Glitter should not be used.
Food products (cereal, macaroni, candy, marshmallows or other perishables) also should not be used.

If possible, e-mail a photograph of your butterflies, to butterflyproject@hmh.org.

Please send or bring your butterflies to the Museum by June 30, 2012, with the following information included:

Your name,
Your organization or school,
Your address,
Your e-mail address, and
The total number of butterflies sent.

Mail or bring your butterflies to:

Holocaust Museum Houston
Butterfly Project
Education Department
5401 Caroline St.
Houston, TX 77004
USA

For questions or additional information, please e-mail butterflyproject@hmh.org.

What Have YOU Done?

2009-01-07T15:53:00.000-08:00

I saw this on Amanda Bishop's blog. The idea is to bold the things you have done! I thought I'd give it a try...

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band (Sing in a band!!!)
4.Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6.Given more than you had to a charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8.Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art form from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort (built a blanket fort...)
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Rode in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied (How do you answer rightously?)
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelos David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant (many times...)
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone (IRONICALLY!)
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit (indirectly...)
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day

Not only are there many things on this list I would LOVE to do, it also makes me think of all the places I'd like to travel, things I'd like to do yet, people I dearly miss in my life, and 100 just isn't enough! It's the possibilities that make life worthwhile - and our own gusto that makes those possibilities turn into realities!

Here's to your fabulous realities!

Shopping vs. Lose Blood

2009-01-03T16:58:00.000-08:00

I don't like the options so much... I hate shopping (Etsy and direct from artists is the exception) and losing blood isn't always a good thing...

But, Etsy member gurapu created an Etsy Treasury featuring some beautiful work with colors that are absolutely delicious! She was gracious enough to include one of my Signature Swirl Polymer Clay Pendants! You can view until Monday, January 5th just by clicking the image!

New Year...Already or Finally?!!!

2009-01-01T16:35:00.000-08:00

This year has been up and down for so many of us. Financial fears, layoffs, bailouts, home foreclosures...not to mention those experiencing, theft, medical issues (and by issues I do meant treatment AND insurance companies & HMO's...), as well as the myriad complications between people and nations...

For me, it was a year of chronic pain, surgeries, medications, therapy (of all kinds!), relationship building and collapses. Each year my nieces and nephews grow is a year I've had to love them more.

My artistic creations have slowed as my body adjusts to the new symptoms and limitations. Sometimes I feel trapped inside myself and sometimes I feel like I can't wait to get the artistic images out of my head and create the reality...every day is different.

I do wish all of you reading this, health, and joy - because if you don't have your health, you'd better keep a great sense of humor.

I wish better for your lives and the lives of people you love. That attaining dreams is a firm belief no matter if you did have to take a temp job in the meantime.

When the blizzard is over, the sky is new, and the ground is covered in soft snow and possibilities. Never believe there are no options...and give as many hugs as you can, human touch is truly underrated!

Have a wonderful 2009 and every day afterwards!

After the Storm, Look Here...

2008-12-26T16:08:00.000-08:00

I think that's the word I'd use...'storm'. Celebrating, parties, phone calls and packages sent to family all over the globe, cooking, baking, wrapping, card writing, trips to the post office and supermarkets. Not to mention, the driving to Thanksgiving at my cousin's - seeing how each niece and nephew, cousin and friend has changed over the past year.

And, then there were storms! Black ice in Portland, OR, 15" of snow in Boston, MA, tornado and blizzards in Mississippi...and, there was a complain about rain in Las Vegas but I didn't feel too badly.

Unfortunately, in while swatting away random wrapping paper and flying boxing tape, I completely missed Heide Hibbard's fabulous Etsy Treasury until the last hour! She included a pair of my gemstone earrings and the entire color scheme is extremely fun.

Hieide Hibbard Fine Art Paintings & Fine Art Gifts

What you see in my artwork is the expression of what I feel and think. I interpret in the way that with all my obsessions and life's dings and dents...I see things. I hope you find my artwork interesting.

And, I KNOW you will! Just click the banner below!

How Did You Know Where We Are?

2008-12-23T12:47:00.000-08:00

Well, Marie created a wonderful Etsy Treasury to make sure you do know where we are...

Stunning Holiday Design!

2008-12-17T22:30:00.000-08:00

Stunning art from fabulous artists: EBSQ, WWAO & Interior Design Team. And, I was lucky enough to snag an Etsy Treasury and create one of my own!

I was so excited!

Please click on the image below to view these wonderful works until Saturday, December 20th.

If you miss this Etsy Treasury, please click below to view these fabulous artists' work!

atelier marie mella - original and unique oil paintings

Into the Blystic - Elis Cooke Original Art

Jordanka's Studio Art Gallery

Webb Pottery

Tags Cats

Tara Robertson Pottery

Fogl's Kitchen

Carol Lago

Darkling Woods

Torrie Smiley, Original Works of Art

Wrinklegrin Studio - Art by Elizabeth Fiedel

Schar Art

STEP THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS

Natural Beauty - Art by Carla Kurt

Talking Dog Productions

Designing It - Jewelry Designs by Carol Langston

Have a Hip Hanukkah

2008-12-16T13:26:00.000-08:00

These are the two adorable tots that featured my "To Be a Kid at Chanuka" Chanukeah. I got the idea after an abundance of Hebrew building blocks that were complicating my storage and my brain was itching to create something special with them.

See their wonderful article below, or click on their banner to see it in its entirety on their site!

But, these cuties are the inspiration for a fabulous shopping site featuring some fabulous artists and gifts to make your little ones smile! Please click below to visit their site and wonderful gift ideas!

Red Wanted!

2008-12-09T00:27:00.000-08:00

I've sorted the gifts for family and friends. I've started wrapping, bagging, card making and just purchased those last two books for my niece and nephew. I'm feeling overwhelmed, but good that I am an all year shopper instead of waiting until December to find everything!

I was happy to see my Judaica gemstone earrings included in an Etsy Treasury created by Marie Mella, from atelier marie mella - original and unique oil paintings. It's a lovely treasury with wonderful works by fellow EBSQ members. I'm sorry I didn't find this earlier, but if you click below, you can still view it until Wednesday, December 10th.

I KNOW I've mentioned Marie before! She is a wonderful woman, a talented artist, and an excellent support! Go...go to her shop and enjoy!

2008-12-05T21:30:00.000-08:00

Today has been a rough day full of good news. I don't know if that makes any sense...but, there it is!

And, after seeing I was in QueenBiscotti's Etsy Treasury, I was delighted. I checked again and Carol from Designing It featured one of my pendants in her Etsy Treasury, too! I'm elated! Click on the image below to view until Monday, December 8th.

Designing It
Jewelry Designs by Carol Langston

Please come in and look around. I started making jewelry about 25 years ago. After a couple of classes at a local college, I was hooked!! I love BEADS....working with wire....chainmaille.....I just really love designing jewelry.

I didn't make jewelry as a child, but I did "collect" rhinestones from my mothers jewelry!!! I kept them all in a tiny vial. I would take them out just to touch them.... show them to my uninterested friends. I still love taking out my beads and just looking at them and showing them, at times, to my uninterested friends!!! So I guess some things really never change.

Sweet Deal

2008-12-05T20:56:00.000-08:00

The BiscottiQueen is queen for a reason! She created another fabulously delicious Etsy Treasury. With the help of some EBSQ Artists and their scrumptious creations it is a true delight. And, I was delighted to see my Signature Swirl Polymer Clay Pendant included! Click on the image below to view until Monday, December 8th.

And, if you haven't been to Fogl's Kitchen yet...GO! Her shope is filled with goodies perfect for the holidays - perfect for everyday!

All That is Fluffy and Warm - A Few EBSQ Favorite Artists

2008-12-04T19:26:00.000-08:00

Fluffy and warm...exactly what I was doing when I found the excellent Etsy Treasury that Shannon Girouard created. She found some wonderful EBSQ artists' works and put them together and even decided to include one of my picture frames! Yeah!

Click on the image below to view until Sunday, December 6th!

BiscottiQueen at Fogl's Kitchen

After years of baking with my grandmother, I am passing on her wonderful cookies to you. I've been baking biscotti for years and have moved from ebay to etsy. This is a wonderful site and I enjoy being here. Click below to drool and order!

Happy Holiday Recipe

2008-12-03T14:56:00.000-08:00

I noticed a strange, irritating buzzing in my ears when I went to the post office yesterday. I was concerned...I was waiting in a long line, and the postal workers looked busy, except for the manager (for the life of me I have no idea what he does other than smile as he walks past customers and employees...). And, the sound wasn't coming from anyone in line...it was coming from the air. The music of the holidaze I would be inadvertently consuming via my delicate ears for the next month. And, the music doesn't care if I'm Jewish.

But, Elizabeth Fiedel of Wrinklegrin Studio knows that the holiday season encompasses more than the regurgitation of the same ten toe-tapping, mind-numbing songs! Her recent treasury included wonderful art with varying themes from fabulous artists! I as extremely excited to see my hand made Chanukea included!

(*Point of reference, here. A Menorah has seven candle holders and is used to represent the seven days of the week for the Sabbath or Shabbat. A Chanukea has nine candle holders to represent the miraculous eight days the Jews' oil lasted until they could get more with an extra candle called the Shamash that is used to light all the other candles.)

You can view this lovely treasury by clicking the image below until Friday, December 5th.

Enjoy the season's changes, the warmth of family and friends that fight the incoming cold, and don't forget those less fortunate than others - this season and throughout the entire year!

I Have Been Tagged by Torrie Smiley!

2008-12-01T15:16:00.000-08:00

Three Olive Martini IV

16 x 20 Acrylic on Gallery Wrapped Canvas

by Torrie Smiley

I just got tagged by Torrie Smiley.

Here are the rules:

1. Place a link to the person that tagged you.

2. List seven unusual things about yourself.

3. Tag (and link to) seven other artists at the end of your post, and post on their blogs to let them know they have been tagged.

Unusual Things About Me

1. I am an afghan junkie! I LOVE them...almost all of them. The women in my family all know how to make them and when I see one it just takes me back to warmth and family and security. There's nothing better (maybe chocolate!) than getting cozy with an afghan, something you know someone worked hard on, to bring comfort and that "oh I feel much better now" feeling.

2. DH's big contribution to this list was Butterfly Kisses. My father and mother and aunt and grandparents always used to give me Butterfly Kisses. It's when you take your eyelashes, get real close to someone's cheek, and flutter your eyelashes against their skin...their cheek usually. If you get really good at it, you can do it eyelash to eyelash! I love it, think it's sweet, and DH thinks it's odd.

3. I live in an apartment complex with a lovely courtyard in the middle of several buildings. I've lived here almost six years but this year our gardener as been MIA. So, I've been pulling weeds, removing the dead flowers from the rhododendron so they can bloom again, and generally keeping an eye out for the welfare of the plants. It got to the point where new tenants were asking me if I was The Gardener...

4. I don't like diamonds. Really, never have. I love gemstones, the colors and surprises they can hold, but I do not like diamonds. I find them somewhat boring and would rather a sapphire or fire opal.

5. For some reason, I give nick-names. Always people I love or have a strong relationships with. My nieces and nephews are as follows: Chicken, The Kid, Princess, and My Sunshine. I have a bunch for DH...most of them good.

6. I am a messy person. I like to blame it on the artistic license, but I know where everything is located. You may not be able to see it in the boxes or under the bags but I know where all my belongings are hiding.

7. I can not tell a joke. I am a very funny person with a great sense of humor. I can make people laugh all the time. However, when it comes to telling a joke, it might as well be in Middle English because I suck at it! But, I'm more of an intuitive person and can get to the humor that belongs to that particular person and have them on the floor, crying while they're also laughing!

I don't know if this is considered unusual...we all have our quirks, abilities, and preferences. I thank Torrie for tagging me - she is a wonderful person and stunning artist, I have never seen anyone paint water as beautifully as she can.

I'd like to tag the following fabulous artists:

Diane Clancy

Heide Hibbard

Noelle Hunt

Gillian Lee Smith

Sidhe Kalas

Maryann Kudera

Jennifer Busby Matas

Functional Art - WWAO November Online Exhibit

2008-11-24T19:11:00.000-08:00

Worldwide Women Artists is an international collective of women artists showing and selling our original art through the worldwide web. As women artists, we give birth to our ideas in a variety of styles and media. We embrace the diversity of each others' work, celebrating the joy of creating our art and sharing it with the world.

I am very excited and extremely proud to present this month's WWAO Online Exhibit (fresh for the holidays!!!), Functional Art! Peruse, purchase - these fabulous pieces are just the tip of the creative iceberg from these wonderful artists! I know you will have a very happy shopping experience with these fabulous artists!

Don't forget to stop by WWAO for more excellent artists and fabulous gifts for a loved one AND yourself!

So...sit back and watch the slide show and then scroll down for contact information! Enjoy!

Amy L. Burns
Infinite Kindness – Mug
Stoneware Clay, $16
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15098954
http://amylburns.etsy.com

Sharon K. Shubert
Woodburned 3 Panel Pine Dressing Screen
Measures 4 x 6-feet, $5,000.00 plus shipping
http://redladyart.com

Janine Maves
Koi Hand Painted Dupioni Silk
shawl or table runner, edged with jacquard silk
lined Dupioni silk, 18" x 74", batik, dyes
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14634699

Carolyn Osborne
Bunny Ornament & Santa on the Moon Ornament
copper, beads, mica
www.creativeforcesbycarolyn.com
www.carolynosborne.etsy.com

*35% of all Carolyn Osborne's sales will go to St. Anthony's Oncology Unit in Gig Harbor, Washington in honor of her brother.*

Lava Jewelry
My Favorite Sterling Silver Earrings
$36
http://lava-jewelry.com

Tara Robertson
The Love Mugs on a Tray in Raspberry Red
High fired stoneware clay (dishwasher and microwave safe)
http://trpottery.etsy.com

Robin Hernandez
Sunny Day (tile)
Fused Glass Size: 6 1/4" x 6 1/4" x 1/4"
http://www.robinhernandez.com
http://RobinHernandez.etsy.com

Carol Lago
Mariposa
It is a art glass inlaid serving tray. The tray itself is wood, decoupaged in imported handmade paper.
www.carolelago.etsy.com

Nora Blansett
Red Hot Pepper Pixie, Maria
OOAK Doll made from fabric, wired antenna, glass beads, paint, pens, yarn, love and magic.
http://www.norablansett.com

Linda Erzinger
Time to Upcycle
This is a clock made from upcycled Plexiglas, fabric and acrylic
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9942916

Upstream Creations
Purple Spiral Earrings
These are made from upcycled Plexiglas painted with acrylic
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16014550

Gayle Bell
Hummingbird Garden
A glass mosaic table, 18" round
www.gaylebell.com

Schar Freeman
Kauai Sands Art Vessel/Vase
Limited Handpainted Vase is made of tempered glass. The sand and shell go completely around the base of the vase. I use shell and sand that I have gathered around my island. Approximate size is 6" high and 12 inches around, rectangle.
http://ainakauaiart.bravehost.com

Nancy Davenport
Iris
Hand painted notecard Watercolor on Strathmore Ivory Cards with Deckle
www.leopard.etsy.com

Cathy O Lewis
Crazy Quilt Cane
Wooden cane, hand painted with acrylics in a crazy quilt design, 2 coats of poly
http://www.cathy-o-riginals.com

Cathy O. Lewis
Personalized Tote Bag
100% cotton, machine quilted, portrait is fused applique
http://www.cathy-o-riginals.com

Staci Rose

To Be a Kid at Chanukah!
Wooden Hebrew Letter Blocks, Mixed Media Chanukah Menorah (Chanukeah)
http://stacirose.etsy.com

Diane Clancy
Ocean Dreams Mug
$16.49 plus Shipping
http://www.cafepress.com/dianeclancy.278899861
http://DianeClancy.com
http://DianeClancy.etsy.com

Thank You!

Art Smiles from Everywhere - Dreams from EBSQ Tender Artists

2008-11-23T19:16:00.000-08:00

Red Moon Stars Magic Mirror - Sold

It's gloomy here...but, the colors of Fall are starting to surround us in San Francisco. They lend themselves perfectly to warm nights snuggled up creating, borrowing the Season's colors and overwhelming feeling of change.

Marie Mella, a fabulous artist and wonderful human being, from atelier marie mella - original and unique oil paintings created a lovely Etsy Treasury. It was a pleasure to see my Gemstone Jewelry Collection included! You can click on the image below to view until Tuesday, November 25th.

Thank You!

Zebra Love

2008-11-17T11:06:00.000-08:00

I have been experiencing a medical breakdown. It is effecting every aspect of my life - my relationships, my daily life, even my own ability to function without pain or pressure or loss of perspective. I wouldn't recommend it...

I'm not having a lot of fun, here, so it was a pleasure to see the fabulous Etsy Treasury that Tamra of Sock Monkey Greetings created. The truly wonderful part is that she included some fabulous artists and even one of my picture frames! Click the image below to view until Friday, November 21st and enjoy!

Sock Monkey Greetings

Welcome to my Etsy Shop - Sock Monkey Greetings. I have a passion for creating handstamped cards and gifts. I am a proud participating member in MSS. (Mission Soldier Support) A charitable effort of Handcrafted Card makers dedicated to providing beautiful handmade cards to our soldiers overseas, for the upcoming winter holidays. The soldiers can use these cards to write to their loved ones back home. Click the banner below to view this wonderful shop!

All That Gitters...oops...Glitters!

2008-11-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

I had one hour left to see it but I was so glad I did! The Biscotti Queen from Fogl's Kitchen created a wonderful Etsy Treasury. But, she also graciously included one of my newer creations, a gemstone necklace of Onyx and Rhodonite. I was very proud to see the fabulous work my necklace was keeping company with - please take a peek below!

Fogl's Kitchen

After years of baking with my grandmother, I am passing on her wonderful cookies to you. I've been baking biscotti for years and have moved from ebay to etsy. Recently, Fogl's Kitchen came to Etsy from Ebay. We LOVE the new space, and the wonderful people we've met.

It's My Birthday!...In a Parallel Universe

2008-10-29T20:06:00.000-07:00

It MUST be my birthday! I got a message from Heide Hibbard (I can't say enough good things about this fabulous artist!) that one of my Signature Swirl Polymer Clay Pendants was featured in her Etsy Treasury! (And, with BIG thanks!)

This one's terribly fun - the artwork is wonderful! Click on the image below to view in detail until Sunday, November 1st.

Please visit Heide Hibbard Fine Arts shop and enjoy her work by clicking her banner below!

I Spy Something White - A Flurry of EBSQ Artists

2008-10-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

I live in San Francisco and weather here might be somewhat predictable, but you can depend on the skies not snowing during winter. A downpour of torrential rain, maybe, but in such a hilly town PERFECT for snow time shenanigans, the skies above the city itself will not snow.

Instead, I think back to winter in Vermont or Vancouver, BC and enjoy Etsy Treasuries like the one Amanda from Makepeace Arts created. She very graciously included my Customized Birthstone Earrings. You can view by clicking the image below until Thursday, October 30th.

Makepeace Arts

"I like to take things from nature that we ignore, take for granted or trod upon without a second glance as my subjects. This most often happens to be stones, rocks and pebbles. They come in more colors than just grey and brown - we need only look a little closer. Beauty can be found in the simplest things."

Click on her banner to view her lovely Etsy Shop!

For more information on the arts and artists,
please visit Kris Jean's article at EBSQ: Art Meets Blog v.20!

A Laugh for Today!

2008-10-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

In the midst of turmoil and chronic pain, uncertainty and frustration, keeping my sense of humor has been vital to my survival...before my accident and surely, after my accident!

On a Northwest Airways flight from Atlanta , GA , a well attired middle-aged woman found herself sitting next to a man wearing a kippa ('yarmulka' in Yiddish). She called the attendant over to complain about her seating.

'What seems to be the problem, Madam?' asked the attendant.

“You've sat me next to a Jew!! I can't possibly sit next to this strange man. Please find me another seat!'

'Madam, I will see what I can do to accommodate,' the attendant replied, 'but the flight is virtually full today and I don't know if there is another seat available.'

The woman shoots a snooty look at the snubbed Jewish man beside her (not to mention the surrounding passengers).

A few minutes later the attendant returned and said, 'Madam, the economy and club sections are full, however, we do have one seat in First class.'

Before the lady had a chance to respond, the attendant continued, 'It is only on exceptions that we make this kind of upgrade, and I had to ask permission from the captain. But, given the circumstances, the captain felt that no one should be forced to sit next to an unpleasant person...'

The flight attendant turned to the Jewish man sitting next to her, and said: “So if you'd like to get your things, Sir, I have a comfortable seat for you in First class...'

At this point, the surrounding passengers stood up and gave a standing ovation while the Jewish man walked up to the front of the plane.

The lady then said indignantly, 'The Captain must have made a mistake.'

To which the attendant replied, 'No Ma'am. Captain Cohen never makes a mistake.'

Treasuries in Action - Fresh Art from Tender Artists

2008-10-26T21:11:00.000-07:00

Look what I found on the EBSQ Blog! I didn't even realize I was in an Etsy Treasury, and the creator of the Treasury and article are both fabulous artists and wonderful people!

Fresh Art From Tender Artists features some lovely new work from several EBSQ artists who are members of the EBSQ-Etsy Street Team. This fantastic treasury on Etsy features work from: Carolyn Schiffhouer, Tracey Allyn Greene, Amanda Makepeace, Beth Fiedel, Kris Jean, Adra, Laura Winzeler, Staci Rose, Blenda Tyvoll, Gabriele, Heide Hibbard, and Loredana Mariotto.

Thank you to Marie Mella for putting together the treasury. -> Marie’s Etsy

78 stores and growing strong! Come join the EBSQ-Etsy Street Team today!

-Kris Jean
Mod, EBSQ-Etsy Street Team

Minor Surgery

2008-10-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

And, already, I can't wait to get home! I'll be resting for a few days, then probably when I feel all claustrophobic, I will create until I get tired again!

It's an outpatient procedure, one of the many I've had over the last five years, and I know I'll be fine. Thanks very much to everyone that's sent well-wishes, they're always appreciated!

Autumn Inspirations

2008-10-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

I love the seasons of transition - Spring and Fall. I can relate to change so deeply that I enjoy watching the world change right before my eyes. The stunning scape of trees sleeping and leaves painted and falling. The beauty, the diversity and not to mention a great harvest! Squash, pomegranate, corn, apples - pumpkin pie, pomegranate salad, corn on the cob and cider.

I'm getting hungry...

Yesterday & Now
Polymer Clay Pendant

Coastal Mood
Gemstone Bracelet

Changing Moods
Gemstone & Wood Necklace

Fall Festival
Glass Beaded Wine Charms

Feel free to drop on down to my etsy shop or contact me directly to purchase anything you see here!

Shopping for Citrine - Witchy One's Buyer Beware!

2008-10-06T16:33:00.000-07:00

I am excited and proud to bring this article to you from fellow artist Tree Pruitt from her blog Witchy One! In it she warns on buying gemstones...something I advocate myself. Click on the images below to see larger print and check out the links at the end of this article for further reading and more great information.

Squidoo Lens:
Gemstones & Glass Beads & Trust

Autumn Trees, Autumn Leaves - WWAO October Showcase

2008-10-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

Be sure to click on each image to view the wonderful art by these very talented artists! And, a big sloppy kiss to Lava Jewelry for hosting this exhibit! Please click on her banner below to view this wonderful exhibit!

L'Shana Tova! Happy New Year!

2008-10-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

We have just celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and I'm looking forward to a better year, myself.

I'd like to wish all of you
a happy, healthy,
joyous and maybe wealthy,
very sweet New Year!

MIA

2008-09-30T17:40:00.000-07:00

I love alliterations so I'll explain my experience with the month of September in this way: September Sucked.

Thank you for your patience! I'm looking forward to the forward.

Happy Birthday Grandma Ophelia

2008-08-22T17:14:00.000-07:00

I miss my grandmother.

We were extremely close, she and I were extremely different, and she was extremely adept at holding our family together...She had the Nice Jewish Girl dream for me and didn't understand my passion for art until much later in her life. It was a necklace that she received many compliments for and couldn't get enough of, so I made her as many as I could. And, after being ill for over six years I was not only proud that she enjoyed the jewelry and art I sent her, but happy to give her everything she wanted that I could give to her.

She passed away over one year ago. Not a second goes by that my thoughts don't wander to my grandmother. I miss my grandmother.

So, to see a lovely Etsy Treasury dedicated to Grandma Ophelia's 90th birthday that included one of my gemstone bracelets, I became very nostalgic. It's a lovely treasury and you can view it by clicking below until Sunday, August 24th.

Ophelia Miller Boutique

Hi and welcome....

Ophelia is my grandmother, who is precious and dear to me. This shop was named after her as an honor to her while she's still with me. The hummingbird logo is inspired from her. She is a collector of hummingbirds from ceramic pieces to clothing.

Ophelia Miller bags are quality hand made totes, diaper bags and purses. Each one has been made with meticulous care. Quality fabrics and notions are used. These bags range from a variety of styles from Hip chic to cottage chic. These styles reflect the potpourri of styles that are dear to me. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy shopping.

He Must Be Premenstrual

2008-08-16T14:43:00.000-07:00

...because, I can't think of anything else. He's been moody, grumpy, hot and cold, and annoying as all get out. Yes...I love him - which is why he's been allowed to throw his tantrums. But, we're both adults and it's getting old.

I happened to be talking to my sister, venting about the obnoxious behavior when she asked, "Is he premenstrual?" After we had a good laugh, I was able to get an Etsy Treasury and dedicate it solely to my DH and the many moods of the minute!

I you miss this treasury, these artists can be found by clicking their names below!

Little Bugs Boutique
Classy Castle
The Bunny's Hiccup
Studio Tau
Pockets & Patches
Phat Benetar

Maidenhand Felted Fibers

Sappy Moose Tree
Nina Gibson Designs
Mina's

One-Eyed Collie Jewelry Designs by Lori Bugaj

Moody Girl Aromatherapy

TLS Design

Paintings Galore

Nifty Stuff Made by Voz

Pretty Girl Things

Behind the Moon, the Sun, the Sea

2008-08-11T20:16:00.000-07:00

I've been sick. I mean, flu, cold, lung infection...absolutely miserable. So, it was nice to see an Etsy Treasury dedicated to the beauty of the earth that included a pair of my gemstone earrings! (Sigh...smile.) You can click on the image below to view until Wednesday, August 13th.

As for tonight, I am going to swim in the sea of cough syrup, breath in the inhaler, and try to refrain from mooning anyone while I'm hopped up and feeling ill.

But, you should visit this Treasury's creator: atelier marie mella - original and unique oil paintings. She has wonderful art, is a completely wonderful person and all you need to do is click the banner below!

New Bracelets on Ebay!

2008-08-06T14:35:00.000-07:00

I have been creating. That includes bracelets...four of which I have added to my Ebay Shop, Staci Rose Designs. You can purchase these bracelets directly from my shop, just click on the text or the store name at the top/right hand side of the page. Thank you!

Pele's Passion
Agate & Red Jasper Bracelet

Zebra Petals
Zebra Jasper, Rose Quartz & Pearl Bracelet

Sweet Blues
Chalcedony, Aventurine & Pearl Bracelet

Garden Shadows
Blackstone, Obsidian, Yellow Turquoise, Tree Agate, Pearl, Zoisite, Tourmaline, Fancy Jasper, Rhyolite & Peridot Bracelet

Babies Everywhere...Tiny Inspirations

2008-08-03T18:49:00.000-07:00

There are two new babies in my life. One, a friends of ours just had a little, or should I say, huge baby. He has features from both his parents and I was very happy to see him and hold him in the hospital. His mother, a friend of mine, had a rough pregnancy and was ready to give birth nine months ago...but, surrounded by friends and family with her baby, she glowed.

The second, we just attended his Brit Milah or in Yiddish, his Bris on Friday. He is my cousins second child but first boy. My cousins were very proud of their new addition to the family as was my Great Aunt. Actually, she was a little too excited. When she asked when DH and I were going to have children, I put my arm around DH's neck and said, "Well, we've been trying to get pregnant, but DH just hasn't been able to." Everyone laughed and she left us alone. (PS...I find, when someone says something absurd to you and you respond with something absurd as well, they usually leave you alone.)

At any rate, I created some picture frames, thinking about the babies, and little ones in our lives, in the lives of my clients - recently one client asked me to create two picture frames for her Grand Nieces! I hope you enjoy my new offerings!

Monkey Fun

Elephant Playtime

Purple & Zebras
Currently available in my Etsy Shop

Peter Rabbit
5"x7" Custom Order - Sold

Feel free to contact me if you'd like to purchase one of these frames or have one customized for you!

WWAO August 2008 Showcase - "Fly Away"

2008-08-01T15:29:00.000-07:00

Big thanks to Chel from Lava Jewelry for hosting this wonderful, online exhibit! Please click on the banner to view in it's entirety...make sure to take a look around at Lava Jewelry while you're there!

You can also click on the images below to view each artist's websites!

Artists Rock

2008-07-30T20:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my friend's birthday. He doesn't like to celebrate his birthday so I made sure to give him a gift, go out shopping with him, have lunch out, and take him to a bar that evening with open mic night, and then a pizza slice before we came home. It was great, he had a wonderful time, and I got up to sing Happy Birthday to him.

Don't look at me that way! He had a FABULOUS time!

Today, I am recuperating! My band, Meshuggenismo, will be performing at a wedding on August 9th, and I'm getting excited to sing in front of an audience, again. And, after last nights applaud for my efforts, I'm feeling very good about the upcoming show, my abilities as an artist, and those people that share my loves! So, when an Etsy Treasury became available, I dedicated it to my favorite artists, WWAO & EBSQ, and their artistic homage to music. You can click below to view this treasury until Saturday, August 2nd.

In case you miss these artists, you can click below to view their work!

Curio Castle of the Mystic Griffin

Elis Cooke Original Art

WillowGroveStudio~~ Modern Figurative Oil Paintings

Karen Casey-Smith__Mandalas, Photography & Digital Art

Twisted Thicket Studio

Avalon Stained Glass Studio

Dream Asylum Studio

Muriel’s Artshop

Nathan Gazin

Sujati Designs

Mazer Design

LD photography

Art by Loredana

Teresas Art

The Art Spirit

live funky

400 Hearts Etsy Sale!

2008-07-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

"They love me, they really, really love me!"

In the same flattered and adored feeling that Sally Field once expressed, I am feeling a little loved right now. My Etsy shop has received 400 hearts and I would love to share the love!

From now until the end of July, I am offering $4.00 off any order from my Etsy shop! I will be sure to send a recalculated invoice after your purchase.

Loverly Judaica at Etsy.com

2008-07-14T12:16:00.000-07:00

L'chiam- To Life!
Picture Frame
"...If statistics are right, the Jews constitute but one percent of the human race. It suggests a nebulous dim puff of stardust lost in the blaze of the Milky way. properly, the Jew ought hardly to be heard of, but he is heard of, has always been heard of. He is as prominent on the planet as any other people, and his commercial importance is extravagantly out of proportion to the smallness of his bulk. His contributions to the world's list of great names in literature, science, art, music, finance, medicine, and abstruse learning are also away out of proportion to the weakness of his numbers. He has made a marvelous fight in this world, in all the ages; and had done it with his hands tied behind him. He could be vain of himself, and be excused for it.

- Mark Twain
("Concerning The Jews," Harper's Magazine, 1899,
see The Complete Essays of Mark Twain, Doubleday [1963])

Simcha
Pewter Judaica Charms Bracelet

I was able to fill an Etsy Treasury today with some fabulous Judaica artworks! Click on the image below to view until Thursday, July 17th!

If you miss this Treasury, please click on the artists' below to view their shops, their art.

Julie Gallant Multimedia Art

Lucky Amulets
Design Kippah
Sjengraving
Kinor David - The Lyre of King David

Down to Earth Creations

EidelJewelry
Orianna Studios

CoCoMo Mosaics

Zula Surfing

RazYoel Arts

Moonblaze
Ceramics by Marcelle

Laura Bolter Design

AgruArts

Jen Lewis- Inspired Judaica

My Guys

Chanukea

Oh So Modern

2008-07-10T23:34:00.000-07:00

I think the color brown gets a bad rap. That is, until someone thought it was a great pairing with pink, now turquoise and teal. I still enjoy a little chocolate brown with lavender.

But, color effects us in ways we may not even be aware of. Red is a color that will get you picked out of the Oprah Winfrey Show crowd - it catches the eye. Blues and greens are "friendly" colors, great for job interviews. Check out this article at Wikipedia on Color Symbolism and Psychology.

I am enjoying these color combinations that may not seem obvious at first and so are many others. In fact, one of my signature swirl pendants is featured in a lovely treasury alongside other beautiful works on Etsy! Click below to view until Sunday, July 13th!

SK Photography

I love doing any artsy and always have! I grew up in a house where my dad was constantly showing me many different things to do with art. I've been drawing and painting ever since I remember. My newest interests are photography and graphic design which I really don't know what I would do without it. All of my art no matter what, is made with love! :)

Singing the Praises of Slide

2008-07-07T19:28:00.001-07:00

What an excellent way to share images!
Slide let me create this little number and show a few of my original oil paintings.
Hope you enjoy!

A Vote for College!

2008-07-05T17:20:00.000-07:00

Angela Taylor, a fabulous artist and member of WWAO wrote to our group today:

All of us create our marks in different ways. My dream is to go to college to make that mark. I got accepted into the Savannah College of Art and Design!!! As many of you know though, I am epileptic and paying for college, even for regular students is hard enough so I am asking for your help. I have made a page on Brickfish where you can vote on my entries to help me get a scholarship. The person with the most entries gets one. Although, there is no guarantee, at least it's a shot. Please vote for my entries to help me get a scholarship. You can vote as many times as you like. To vote just click the picture that you would like to vote on, then look on the lower left side and there will be a button to click saying VOTE. Confirm your vote and bingo!

Her page to vote:
http://www.brickfish.com/Changing

"Just Face It", Angela Taylor

She is an inspiring woman, talented artists, and very dear human being. If you have a minute and are in the mood for clicking and viewing unique pieces of art, click the link above. When you're finished, take a gander at her shop; the link is listed below!

Painting With Passion
Original Art by Angela Taylor

My interest in painting began after meeting a local artist and friend. She helped me learn about painting and inspired me to become an artist. Since then, painting has become my voice. It has become my way of coping with the hard situations that I face from having seizures.I started having seizures at 12yrs for unknown reasons.

I had about 7 seizures a day 100 a day at the most. After having brain surgery in June,2003,I only have them at night. I did wake up from brain surgery with my left side paralyzed but it was NOT permanent. Physical Therapy helped ALOT! I can not go without medications or they will start again. I started painting as Therapy after I healed from surgery. I hope that painting will help others to prosue their dreams of painting as I have been inspired to prosue mine.

My work is basically abstract in style because I choose to work with color and a more intuitive approach to painting. While looking at each painting you may wonder what I was thinking while painting. I assure you that every painting has a meaning. The ability to paint my emotions is what I find so therapeutic about art.

She is a very inspiring woman and artist. Now! Go visit her Etsy shop and fabulous artworks to help support her College Dream and acquire a fabulous piece of art!

Vibrant AquaPinks...Got Your Shades On?

2008-07-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

I am having a bit of a rough start today. I have some pain and anxiety and a meeting later where I have to talk...with my mouth...that hurts. Hopefully, she can understand me! Did I mention, the water was turned off? They're doing maintenance from 11am-2pm...there just isn't a good time to turn it off, maintenance or not.

But, I was happily surprised when a message in my inbox said:

hello - you're in my TW
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=14969
best wishes
heather

I was in for a real treat! The colors were beautiful and she even included one of my oil paintings! You can view this Etsy Treasury until Sunday, July 6th by clicking below!

Nifty Knits

Hand knitted flowers, jewelry and collectibles.

I used to knit all the time when my kids were small, but rediscovered it recently during a period of time off sick from "the day job". I'm really enjoying getting the creative juices going once more, and have already got a considerable stash of yarn itching to be turned into items to sell! I recycle clean packaging when I can get my hands on it, both to save the trees and to keep your costs down. Click on her banner and visit her site!

July WWAO Exhibit - Our Favorite Works

2008-07-01T14:57:00.000-07:00

July 08 Worldwide Women Artist Show !

Graciously hosted by Noelle Hunt!

Just click on the artists to view their sites and their fabulous work!

Big sloppy kisses to Noelle Hunt for hosting this exhibit!

Internationally-known Canadian artist Noelle Hunt works in a studio full of her muses collectible pieces of vintage kitsch. Her work, under the name WickedDollz, has been featured in magazines and celebrity homes around the world.

Noelle's early work, revolving around disturbing representations of the female form, echoed a tragic eating disorder that nearly took her life. Her recent work, however, is inspired by lighter, nostalgic things, like Big Eyed Dolls and Mattel's Liddle Kiddles, as well as newer dolls like Pullips, and Takara Blythe. Now, with tongue set firmly in cheek, she continues to express her own brand of humor and exorcise the demons.

What is WWAO? Look and See...

2008-06-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

Worldwide Women Artists is an international collective of women artists showing and selling our original art through the worldwide web. As women artists, we give birth to our ideas in a variety of styles and media. We embrace the diversity of each other's work, celebrating the joy of creating our art and sharing it with the world.

And, that's the official statement and you can click on the WWAO official image and visit the site to see many fabulous artists! OR! You can take a quick look afterwards at the wonderful Etsy Treasury that Glass Cat Jewels created. She featured WWAO artists with Etsy shops and very graciously included one of my Gemstone Necklaces from my 'Candy Collection'. Just click on the image below to view until Wednesday, July 2nd!

Glass Cat Jewels
Uncommon Glass Designs

Glass Cat Jewels specializes in fused dichroic glass jewelry as well as other fused and stained glass designs. I've been an artist since forever. Over the years I've done a variety of art but GLASS has been my chosen medium for about 18 years now. First working with stained glass making panels and suncatchers I am now into bead making and fused glass. GLASS is my passion. It is my creative outlet and my main source of relaxation. I can't imagine not doing it. Thank you for shopping on Etsy, a site where you purchase directly from the artist. Click on the banner below to view her gorgeous work!

Orphan Works Bill - Please Take Action to Support Living Artists!

2008-06-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

The entire Artists' Community is abuzz about this Orphan Works Bill. It has already passed in the House and is waiting for decision in the Senate. Artists are not happy as it is designed to make copyright works more easily accessible to those that would use the work without compensating the artist.

For information on the Bill and it's wording, check here at the Library of Congress online.

Talking Points and Action you can take by the
ILLUSTRATORS' PARTNERSHIP OF AMERICA:

Backers of the Orphan Works bill are circulating their Talking Points:

"Neither the House nor the Senate drafts of the bill contain the word "registries," [they write] but rather they require users to search non-governmental databases of copyrighted works. The purpose of any database is not meant to take the place of copyright registration, but to have a way to search for visual images. Any participation in such a database would be voluntary."

But this doesn't mean what it appears to say. Take it point by point:

Talking Point #1: "Neither the House nor the Senate drafts of the bill contain the word `registries. ' "
Response: Correct. They contain the word "databases," a synonym:

Registry: register: an official written record of names or events or transactions
http://wordnet.princeton.edu/perl/webwn

Database: A database is a structured collection of records or data
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Database

Q: Why a synonym?
A: Because international copyright law forbids member countries to impose registries as a condition of protecting copyrights: Berne/Article 5(2) "The enjoyment and the exercise of these rights shall not be subject to any formality."
http://www.law.cornell.edu/treaties/berne/5.html

In other words, if they used the word "registries" in the bills, it would be a red flag to other countries that the US is flirting with non-compliance with international treaties.

Talking Point #2: "...rather they [the bills] require users to search non-governmental databases of copyrighted works."
Response: Non-governmental databases" means databases maintained in the private sector. For users to find your work in these commercial databases, your work would first have to be in the database. Work not in the database would be orphaned.

Talking Point #3: "Any participation in such a database would be voluntary."
Response: Congress cannot pass a bill making registration mandatory because that would violate Berne/Article 5(2). And that would state explicitly to other countries that the US no longer intends to honor its international agreements. There are red flags all over these talking points.

Summing up: The Orphan Work bills would mandate the creation of registries by commercial interests. You would not be legally forced to place your work with these for-profit registries. But failure to do so would orphan your work.

The deceptive talking points accompanying this bill are another red flag.

— Brad Holland and Cynthia Turner, for the Board of the Illustrators' Partnership

Take Action/ Write Congress
http://capwiz.com/illustratorspartnership/home/

Over 37,000 messages have been sent from the site in the last 48 hours. Please spread the word.

Please forward or post this announcement in its entirety to any interested party.

If you received our mail as a forwarded message, and wish to be added to our mailing list, email us at: illustratorspartnership@cnymail. com

Place "Add Name" in the subject line, and provide your name and the email address you want used in the message area.

Please support living artists - please take action now!
Thank you!

Summer Bracelets

2008-06-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

It's summer and it's hot! Hot for San Francisco for sure! Mark Twain was right when he said "The coldest winter I ever saw was the summer I spent in San Francisco." And, this is usually the case, but we've had a couple of over 90 degree days where the natives have no idea what to do! Most people don't have air conditioning in the city because the water that surrounds us usually does the trick. But, not this summer!

I have been creating...and my photographer, David Torres, has been very busy! Here are a few Summer Bracelets - I hope you enjoy!

Garden Secrets
Rhodonite, Rose Quartz, Pearl, Crazy Horse Stone, Unakite, Green Garnet, Peridot, Yellow Turquoise & Red Hair Quartz Charm!

Kisses
Coral, Carnelian, Moukaite,
Pearl, Rose Quartz, Ruby,
Red Hair Quartz, Rhodonite

Joyful Waters

Aventurine, Turquoise,
Fluorite, Pearl,
Amazonite,
Chalcedony,
Aquamarine

Sunny Fun
Calcite, Quartz, Coral, Carnelian, Red Aventurine, Nephrite Jade, Pearl, Unakite, Serpentine & Yellow Turquoise

Ophelia's Waters

Lapis, Chrysocolla, Pearl, Malachite, Turquoise, Shell, Chalcedony, Onyx, Fluorite

I will be adding more bracelets to my Etsy shop in the days and weeks to come. But, they fly like hotcakes - so be sure to check often!

I Signed Up for PPP!

2008-06-22T15:43:00.001-07:00

That's right - I went for it. I have heard about PayPerPost, seen other bloggers use it and wondered if my little, artistic brain and my humble little blog might be able to support this opportunity.

And, they said I could...or might...or, at the very least, give it a try!

I'd like to keep the artistic integrity of my blog - so, hopefully, PayPerPost will offer those topics. I do know they offer many different topics that I can choose from...I feel a little better equipped to speak about things I know about!

But, the bottom line, they offer their customers a service and their bloggers an opportunity to speak and be heard by varied persons. Win, win, right?!!

As a blogger, I can choose the topics available or choose the topics I'd like. Each topic has certain guidelines: number of words, tone, sometimes a link. All fairly easy I believe. They offer a monetary reimbursement for the writer's time and efforts. While I can't imagine that I will make $1000 like one particular blogger did this month, but I am hopeful and looking forward to writing - getting the creative juices flowing, and making a few dollars for more art supplies.

You can make money writing about things you enjoy, too!

So, if you find yourself intrigued, interested, totally gung-ho, you can click on the links provided here or the button on the right side of this blog.

Candy Jewels

2008-06-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

What a great title! I love it and am so grateful for Yazmin's feature on her blog A Pretty Rock.

We both have something in common - we are both self-taught artists. This is something I can relate to as well as admire. I hope you enjoy her post as much as I do!

A Pretty Rock
Handcrafted Limited Edition Jewelry

My name is Yazmin. I've always been an artsy-crafty person, but it seems like I just moved into jewelry unintentionally. In 2004, I went to the Yellow Daisy Festival for the umpteenth time and found a pair of beautiful hair chopsticks with beaded ends. I wore them for about a month straight! They were a true obsession. I spent a lot of time thinking about the chopsticks and how to make my own. This led me to local stores like Michael's and Joann's, but it also led me to several boutique bead shops... Many gemstones and wire later and here I am! Heaven help me when the crafting wind finally takes me in a different direction. ;)

Make sure to click on the banner below to check out her shop!

Use It - It's Fabulous!

2008-06-15T19:45:00.000-07:00

I have a strong appreciation for Functional Art. According to the Gallery of Functional Art, they define it as "Functional Art is the blending of form, function, sculpture and fine art." In other words, it looks good and you can use it for practical or impractical applications: jewelry, furniture, pottery, felting, etc.

I also have a love and appreciation for the hard-working, wonderful artists of Worldwide Women Artists Group. With almost 300 members, each woman creates her own unique fabulous artwork in myriad of forms.

So, when I chanced an Etsy Treasury, I decided to combine these two loves and came up with a very lovely treasury with very wonderful functional art by very excellent artists! You can view by clicking below until Wednesday, June 18th.

If you miss any of these artists you can visit their Etsy shops by clicking below:

Tara Robertson Pottery

Lava - Gemstone Jewelry Crafted by a Geologist

Glorious Hats

McLain Jewelry

Sujati Designs

Webb Pottery

Color Me Gifted

Carole Lago Custom Designs

Into the Blystic - Elis Cooke Original Art

tanis alexis : eco-conscious art

Twisted Thicket Studio

Original Artwork by Amy L Burns - Abundance Faerie

Glass House Jewelry

Teresa's Art Studio

Art by Betty Refour

Sharon K. Shubert Art Designs (aka redladyart)

WWAO June Showcase - Getting Away From it All!

2008-06-01T13:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome to June's Worldwide Women's Artists June showcase! I've personally been thinking about places like Thailand, Morocco, Petra in Jordan, Golan Heights in Israel, Ireland, and Galapagos - this showcase seemed to welcome my own sentiments in a very timely manner!

To view the show in it's entirety, simply click here. Below, is a sample of this wonderful exhibit from some equally wonderful artists!

The Artists included in this exhibit:

Barbara Furlong

Robin Hernandez

Jordanka Yaretz

Judy Matechuk

Diane Clancy

Caelynn Creations

Sharon Shubert

Special thanks to Lava Jewelry for hosting this exhibit!

Lava Jewelry - Gemstone Jewelry Crafted by a Geologist

Geology plays a strong role in my jewelry through my use of natural gemstones. I strive to appreciate and celebrate the variety found in nature by choosing gemstones with character.

I studied jewelry-making at the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Francisco, CA, and metalsmithing at Mission College in Santa Clara, CA.

Why "Lava Jewelry"? Well, it fits in with what I do. I study volcanoes, and many of my friends will tell you that there are few things in life I love better than red hot magma.

Click on her banner to view the work from this talented artist!

Good for Girls...GREAT for Guys!

2008-05-31T19:59:00.000-07:00

I have been so lax...and my husband has been stealing a lot...but I have created some new necklaces geared for the guys! My husband has approved each one and is letting me share these with others. He thinks this is a good arrangement - his own personal jeweler

And, like all my jewelry, I do not create duplicates, so each piece is handmade, original, one-of-a-kind. I got tired of seeing the blah shell necklaces or millions made hemp necklaces that get pretty grubby (guys and gals treat their jewelry very differently!). And, the first men's pieces I made were for my now husband - a 6'3" man to be reckoned with if anyone said anything about his necklace. But, he hears plenty of "Oh, nice necklace!" which makes him feel like a king.

Berkeley - Shell & Onyx Necklace

African Grassland
Kambaba Jasper & Onyx Necklace

Mojave Desert -

Surreal Jasper, Shell & Wood Necklace

Pampas - Blackstone, Nephrite Jade & Serpentine

Outside -
Lapis & Wood Necklace

Motor Oil -

Blackstone & Hematite

Necklace

Let me know if you are interested in purchasing any of these pieces; I'd even be excited to create a custom necklace just for you! Feel free to visit my Etsy shop or email me directly.

So, What is on Your List? Favorite Things from My Favorite List!

2008-05-30T19:43:00.000-07:00

Etsy has a wonderful feature where a member can "add item to favorites" or "add seller to favorites". You can click a link and poof! you have added to your list of items and sellers that are particularly special to you.

I have a list of favorites; with the amount of talent on Etsy, needless to say, my list is fairly large! Torrie Smiley decided to create an Etsy Treasury with some of her favorites. And, elatedly, she included one of my ceramic pieces! You can view until Sunday, June 1st by clicking the image below.

Now, when you're finished peeking at this Treasury, check out Torrie's work! She's a fabulous artist and a lovely human being! Just click her banner below!

Customer Care Counts

2008-05-28T20:42:00.001-07:00

It's a lost art. In a world where people relate to each other through computer screens and never see someone's facial expressions or hear someone's vocal tones, relationships can be confusing and awkward. Customer care gets thrown out the window far too often which can create a frustrating experience that turns people off...but not before they tell fifty of their friends!

I was lucky enough to create my own Etsy Treasury recently and dedicate it to some of the talented artists that I've had the absolute pleasure to meet and deal with. You can view by clicking below until Friday, May 30th.

Just in case you miss this treasury,
you can view each artist at their Etsy shops!

JUMA Jewelry

Alysa Merle Handcrafts

Simply Raevyn

La Beana

Torrie Smiley Original Works of Art

atelier marie mella - original and unique oil paintings

Anam Cara Candles

Zbella

Abbily Babbily

Tag's Cats

Art Mind

Heide Hibbard

By Allison

Into the Blystic - Elis Cooke Original Art

The Crafty Wino

Donna Gill Colestock

Who's Your Daddy?

2008-05-28T15:26:00.000-07:00

Based on Toby Keith's song "Who's Your Daddy", a very nice Etsy Treasury was born! I'd never heard the song before, and am not the hugest Country music fan, but I got to give a listen, and it's pretty cute. You can check it out here if you haven't heard it yet - just click the image to watch the video on YouTube.

The Etsy Treasury features fabulous work complimenting this song and includes one of my Magic Mirrors! You can view until Friday, June 3rd by clicking below.

Spoil Yourself
Anderson Soap Co.
Natural, Spa Quality, Handmade Bath Products
Making Soap is my full time job I recently decided it was time to do something that truly made me happy. I have been fortunate to be able to make a living making soapy products and Love it!

Click the banner to view his delicious work!

Featured Artist Staci Rose - by Pamela E Miller

2008-05-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

I am always happy to support other living artists and, of course, over the moon when I am supported as well! I was glad to receive Pamela's message telling me that she had written a feature about my work on her blog Pamela E Miller Contemporary Abstract Art.

Pamela E Miller

I feel that creating art is a way of sharing your soul with others. As you will see in my artwork: sometimes I am very flamboyant and always colorful, sometimes confidant and peaceful, other times angry or chaotic. I think all of my emotions; passions come out in my works. Sometimes I layer it on thick (paint and words) and other times I flirt with the canvas with light feathery strokes. My art reflects my beliefs in love, warmth, generosity, loyalty, and honesty. I’m inspired by science, fantasy, martial arts, architecture, and nature (especially water).

Miller Modern Art provides art collectors original paintings and fine art prints by contemporary artist, Pamela Miller. Original Painting Styles Include: Urban Cityscapes, Impressionistic Seascapes, Asian Influenced, Geometric, Abstract Expressionism, Surrealism, Cubism, Fantasy, Abstract Impressionistic Animals, Figurative Abstract Nudes and MORE! NEW! Now offering hand-embelished giclees and limited edition prints signed by PMILLER. We have artwork in a wide variety of sizes.

Visit her etsy shop by clicking the banner below to enjoy her wonderful work!

Artistic Inspiration

2008-05-20T18:52:00.000-07:00

Inspiration comes from many places and it varies from artist to artist. I am inspired by textures for my pottery, colors for my paintings, the stones themselves for my jewelry, or even the desires of one of my customers!

I gain inspiration from the different artist groups I belong to, as well. One recent challenge had me creating a Hamsa. Also known as the Hand of Fatima, the Eye of Fatima, or the Hand of Miriam, it is a symbol used to protect against the evil eye. The word itself, in Hebrew and Arabic, literally means "five" - some associate the significance of the five fingers to the five books of the Torah for Jews, the Five Pillars of Islam for Sunnis, or the five People of the Cloak for Shi'ites. In Jewish culture you can find it incorporated in wall plaques, mobiles, keychains and necklaces. Sometimes they are inscribed with Hebrew prayers for the home or travelers.

I decided to take a random idea of wire, pewter charms, and glass beads and make it a reality in a 6 inch wall hanging. This is the first time I have ever created something like this and I had a fabulous time! I am happy to create one just for you - I welcome custom orders! Simply drop me a line at stacirosedesigns@yahoo.com or request a custom order through my etsy shop at http://stacirose.etsy.com!

Returning the Love

2008-05-13T12:59:00.000-07:00

I finally snagged an Etsy Treasury of my own! Woo Hoo!

And, as it has been my honor to meet and personally enjoy the arts and crafts of many artists, my most recent interactions have been wonderful. I thought it only fitting to feature these fabulous individuals in my Treasury! Click the image below to view until Friday, May 16th!

If you miss this treasury,
please visit their shops by clicking the links below:

Designs by Danna

.Maram...

Purseonality Bags

Alysa Merle Handcraft

SunRaven Designs

Laurie Ryan

Teresa's Art Studio

atelier marie mella

Butercups N Buterflies

Anam Cara Candles

LaAlicia

Tags Cats

Smiles and Sunshine

Couture Brew Too

From Ewe to You

Simply Raevyn

I'd Rather Be Blue...EBSQ Has the Blues

2008-05-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

And, she's right! I have the blues! I am recuperating from my attack earlier this week. It's amazing how much energy Pain can zap from your body and psyche.

And, it gives me the blues. But, Tracey has put together some beautiful blue work from fabulously talented artists of EBSQ - a group of guys and gals I adore and appreciate. She also included one of my gemstone bracelets! Her Etsy Treasury is wonderful, friendly, diverse and you can see it until Thursday, May 8th by clicking the image below.

Tracey Allyn Green creates fabulous work - her art is wonderful. Now go and visit her shop!

Another May Edition - So Many Happy Flowers and Colors

2008-05-05T21:21:00.000-07:00

Today was not a good day. I've had an unexplained pain off and on for over a year and a half. My doctors have run blood tests, ECG, Xray - you name it! The pain is so severe, it makes me cry. It's sharp and feels like someone has harpooned me through the right side of my chest...and it doesn't go away for an hour or two. I try to focus on my breathing, but in the end I'm exhausted, spent and I get the hiccups for a week or so. But, today was a little different! My doctor came up with a hypothesis! She thinks have a pinched nerve between my ribs! I'm not that thrilled about the prognosis - BUT I HAVE A PROGNOSIS! For those of you not falling apart piece by piece, this is a big deal.

So, we'll work on it...

In the meanwhile, I was filled with warm fuzzies when I saw Marie's newest Etsy Treasury. Beautiful colors, lovely art focusing on Spring (a wonderfully transitional season!) which included a pair of my gemstone earrings! Click on the image below to view until Wednesday, May 7th.

atelier marie mella - original and unique oil paintings

my name is marie, I am a full time professional painter, living in germany. welcome! My preferred paintings are the old flemish highly colored so called primitive (:-) If one day one painting of mine gets the slightest flair of these jolly companions, I will be so happy (:-) Working hard on texture, color and detail, I'd like to see my artwork going towards a kind of "primitive abstract" style.

She's absolutely lovely AND a fabulous artist! Click on her banner below to view the wonderful work in her shop!

WWAO May Showcase - Seascapes

2008-05-01T10:50:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the WWAO May online exhibit! May's theme is Seascape and you can view the entire show by clicking the image below and see each artist and their individual works and purchasing information. Relax and enjoy the view!

Artists Include:

Barbara Haviland

Staci Rose

Klaire L.Martin

Wendy Lee Hearn

Debi McSwain

Cathy O Lewis

Carolyn Osborne

Jordanka Yaretz

Teresa M. Turner

Dorothy Birch

Diane Clancy

Torrie Smiley

Sharon K. Shubert

Robin Hernandez

Carole Lago

Donna Ridgway

Michele C. Dodge

Beth Robinson

Linda Watson

Jane Carlstrom

Brenda Thour

Dawn Andersen

Madelaine Fedorowich

Carol Megivern

R. Tori Sudduth

Barbara Furlong

Extra special thanks to Barb for hosting this exhibit! In the past three years Barbara has painted with oils non stop. Barbara took the Bob Ross certifications, times 3. After 360 hours of training she got certified in landscapes, seascapes, florals and wildlife. She has taken additional classes from Joyce Ortner, Buck Paulson, Susan Jenkins and soon from Valerie Stewart. She also is certified 4 ways with Donna Dewberry and has taught for Donna in the past at the BEE Painting and Crafting Expo in Florida. Before all of that she did tole painting too. Now she mainly loves to paint with oils.

Etsy TradeAHolics

2008-04-28T12:08:00.000-07:00

It's true. I love it, can't get enough of it, I am almost finished with my holiday shopping with some of the most gorgeous, handmade creations I have ever found! My name is Staci and I am a Trade-a-holic! I mean, I can quit anytime I want to...but why would I want to?!!

"The Etsy Trade-a-holic Team’s purpose is to trade amongst it’s members and other interested shops. Thru trading, we self & cross promote, receive feedback and build our sales plus gain wanted or needed items. We also strive to maintain an organized and updated list of people willing to barter for what they want & need."

If you are an Etsy seller and have an interest in this group, you can visit the blog and connect to sellers and other great links!

Now, on to a wonderful Etsy Treasury, created by the owner and creative operator of Raevyn77. It's a wonderful collection of artists and always a pleasant surprise to see that one of my picture frames was included! You can visit this Treasury until Wednesday, April 30th by clicking below!

Simply Raevyn - Handcrafted Jewelry
Hello! Welcome to my shop. I make handcrafted jewelry. I specialize in brick stitch, beaded earrings. However I also make chandelier earrings, drop earrings, and necklaces. Take a look, see if you spot anything you fancy.

Make sure to click the banner to view her shop!

$25 and Under - Something for All!

2008-04-26T21:28:00.000-07:00

I have been sucking on matzoh for quite some time now (don't get me wrong...Passover is my favorite holiday. what better thing to celebrate than 'once we were slaves and now we are free'?!!) , but there's been A LOT of matzoh and not a lot of variety. But, I was happily surprised to hear from Samantha of Anam Cara Candles. I love this girrl and just the thought of her delicious candles made me feel better!

She created a fabulous treasury featuring excellent artists and their affordable work...cuz' let's face it, the economy right now ain't so hot, but needs and wants don't always change as quickly. (The pursuit of happiness sometimes costs a few dollars...) And, I'm glad to say she included one of my gemstone bracelets; doubly glad to add that I do not mark up the cost of my work to indulge a reputation instead of having a self-assured confidence that shows in the things my customers say all the time. (major warm fuzzies there!) I've been thinking a bit about the economy lately, can you tell?

But, you can view this Etsy Treasury until Tuesday, April 29 by clicking the image below!

Anam Cara Candles - Warm your Spirit, Soul & Senses

Anam Cara is Irish-Gaelic for "soul friend"

Greetings & Welcome to Anam Cara Candles!

Anam Cara is the place to come to nourish your spirit. While candles are practical and ornamental, they are also healing and celebratory. Our candles are made from 100% soy, with NO chemical additives, dyes or petroleum by-products. We have beautiful collections for you to choose from, whether your candles are for decorative purposes or personal intentions, you may bask in the glow of your natural candle.

Now GO! Visit her shop because I KNOW from my own experience you will NOT regret it!

Gettin' Wiggy With It!

2008-04-20T23:04:00.000-07:00

I love wiggy, squiggly, spirally round shapes, too! Which is why I enjoyed Judy's Etsy Treasury; I especially appreciated that she included one of my Signature Swirl Polymer Clay Pendants! You can view until Wednesday, April 23 by clicking the image below!

Juma Jewelry

Modern handcrafted jewelry made with the finest gemstones...Each piece of my jewelry is handmade, in that I do all of the metalsmithing and wirewrapping myself. I love combining sterling silver with gemstones -- it's something about the sparkle of the white precious metal with the facetting of the gemstones that get me all tingly! I only use the highest quality gemstones in creating my jewelry so you can rest assure that you'll get a heirloom quality piece of jewelry. Click on the banner below to view her work!

Some Framed Goodies!

2008-04-17T15:15:00.000-07:00

Attention! I created some new picture frames and am extremely excited to share them with you! For these frames, I had different inspirations.

1. The pieces themselves (I felt very clever and had a ton of fun using the glass pieces as bubbles for the drink!)

2. I also thought of one of my dearest friends and decided to create a Curious George picture frame. I love that girl and she loves Curious George!

3. A request I get a lot! Camping, hiking, outdoor sports are loved and those memories look fabulous in a frame like this one. (if I do say so myself...)

These frames have not yet been posted in my shops - please feel free to send purchase inquiries directly to my email address! Thanks for taking a peek!

Night, Dream, Black, Green: With an Owl, Other Night Birds, and Many Moons!

2008-04-14T00:42:00.000-07:00

From Left to Right:
'My Guys' Chanukeah/Menorah, 'Spring' Serving Dish,
'Of the Earth' Candlesticks, 'Handle Me Gently' Bowl

Not long after I created my last post did I find Marie's wonderful Etsy Treasury. And, absolutely fabulously, she included my ceramic scroll bowl! Please enjoy this treasury by clicking below until Tuesday, April 15th!

atelier marie mella - original and unique oil paintings

She's a doll AND a wonderful artist! Click on her banner below to view the wonderful work in her shop!

When I Grow Up...I Want Be a Potter

2008-04-12T23:41:00.000-07:00

And, really, don't we all. I mean, after seeing the movie Ghost, I think that did it for most women in America if not the entire movie watching world...

I first started working with clay when I was in High School. I had four classes my senior year, all Advanced English, Advanced History, blah blah, and Ceramics! I had to drag myself up to the school at 8am and it was my first class of the day. And it was great! I loved the handbuilding methods and the abundant creativity it allowed me! Our teacher had been a potter for years and had an excellent attitude, and I enjoyed hanging out at the back of the table with the other artsy weirdos like me.

Fast forward to an AWFUL break-up...it lasted just about as long as our relationship. Did I say AWFUL?!! I had a need to pund something that wouldn't cry and I joined an open class at the local Jewish Community Center. It was affordable, I got to handbuild all the ceramic pieces my imagination could handle, and I got to pound wet clay until all the air bubbles were gone and maybe a little while longer if I wanted to.

I was very proud to see my ceramic scroll bowl featured in Torrie Smiley's Etsy Treasury. You can view it until Wednesday, April 16 just by clicking below.

Torrie is awesome, fabulous, talented as heck - check out her shop!

Life Gets in the Way & Two Great Gals!

2008-04-10T23:58:00.001-07:00

¡Mi Dios! ¡No puedo utilizar mis manos! ¡Soy tan joven! ¿Qué ha sucedido a mi vida?

Diva, 9x12" Oil on Canvas Paper

Hi. My name is Staci and it's been nine days since my last post. My life feels like a soap opera but not as interesting...

I just hate it when life gets in the way. For those of you just tuning in, the joints in my hands and arms have been sore and weak and it's causing me pain. They think it's arthritis (yeah! ...oh, wait.) and they've given me medication to help stop the deterioration, but it will take one to three months to kick in. And, as a side-effect, I could go blind. I'm also going nuts - thank goodness I still have a sense of humor!

So, I actually got a good smile on my face yesterday; two wonderful artists created Etsy Treasuries and included some of my work!

First, Torrie Smiley, an artist I love and adore and is excellently supportive, created a Treasury called Art: Original art from my friends at WWAO and EBSQ. They happen to be two of my favorite artist's groups, too, and it was a nice bonus that she included my Great for Guys Necklace!

Then, Tracey Allyn Greene, an artist I love and adore and mutually support, created a Treasury called Primaries: A few of my favorites. It's a fabulous display of primary colors in art and I was thrilled to see my ceramic splatter bowl included!

Please click on their banners to view their fabulous work!

WWAO April Showcase - Beautiful Mother Earth

2008-04-01T20:14:00.000-07:00

I am very happy to share the Worldwide Women's Art Organization April Showcase: Beautiful Mother Earth. These shows are particularly interesting, not only because of the fabulously talent women artists, but the excellently diverse interpretations.

To get a better view, find out more information on these pieces and the artists, or find the sale information click any of the images below or visit: Red Dirt Road Photography.

The Artists participating in this showcase:

Earthrising by Linda Watson

Guardians of the Earth by Deborah F Voizin

Rain Forest by Sharon K Shubert

Breezy Buckskins by Donna Ridgway

Mountain's Majesty by Klaire L Martin

Organic by Natalie Prevost-Mero

Mother Earth Among Her Blooms by Jane Carlstrom

Consciousness by Diane Clancy

Go Green by Jan A Sullivan

Encroachment by Cathy O Lewis

Fern Fronds by Dorothy Birch

Purple Lightning Strike by Barbara Furlong

Mother Nature by Jordanka Yaretz

Monk by Debi McSwain

Our Melting Planet by R Tori Sudduth

The Key to Happiness by Nora Swallows

Sterling Silver Flower Ring by Zbella

Mother Earth and Sky by Nora Blansett

Autumn Moon by K Markley-Reade

This Showcase was graciously hosted by Dorothy Birch of Red Dirt Road Photography.

Dorothy Clifford Birch and travels the country as the wife of a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter pilot. An avid naturalist and environmentalist, Birch received an undergraduate degree in environmental science from Virginia Tech and a master's in environmental education from Nova Southeastern University. She loves her work as an environmental educator, joining in the delight of natural discovery with children and adults alike, encouraging the critical thinking and action that help people to appreciate the wonderful web of life in which they are enveloped.As for these pictures and their role in Birch's environmental education efforts. . . if one picture is worth a thousand words, then these, she hopes, might just begin to describe the beauty of this small and precious, blue and green planet on which we are blessed to live.

I Love Jason Robert Brown!

2008-03-31T02:13:00.000-07:00

I have never heard of him before Alysa Merle's Etsy Treasury. She and her daughter are big fans of his music - and he is quite an accomplished composer, pianist, and singer. According to his official website:

JASON ROBERT BROWN has been hailed as "one of Broadway's smartest and most sophisticated songwriters since Stephen Sondheim" (Philadelphia Inquirer), and his "extraordinary, jubilant theater music " (Chicago Tribune) has been heard all over the world, whether in one of the hundreds of productions of his musicals every year or in his own incendiary live performances.

It's just a taste, but here's a YouTube video of a performance he did at Eton University in New York:

But, what made me happier, was seeing the wonderful artists she chose and she included a pair of my gemstone earrings! You can view this Treasury by clicking the image below until Thursday, April 3rd.

Alysa Merle - One Stitch at a Time

Original knit & crochet, many with recycled materials.

Welcome to my Etsy Store! All of my items are original designs, hand made by me. I have been knitting and crocheting for over 40 years, and put lots of care and love into everything that I make. I learned to knit from my grandmother when I was 8 years old, after that I taught myself to crochet, sew, embroider, needlepoint, & cross stitch. I always have multiple projects in process and I bring something to work on wherever I go. My latest interest has been in making things out of recycled materials. Two materials I have been working with recently are cut up plastic shopping bags and recycled sari silk (silk yarn spun by women in Nepal from the material left over from making saris in India). I also love working with soft and textured yarns.

Click the banner below to view her work!

Odds and Ends and Such!

2008-03-28T03:52:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I am delightfully reminded that art is everywhere. Sometimes, good vibes are sent zooming in your direction without ever asking. Sometimes, you find these things in the last place you might look.

I was very happy to see Torrie Smiley's Etsy Treasury, filled with beautiful works of art and craft. Lifetime's of skill, talent, hard work, and even one of my gemstone bracelets!

Polymer Pendants from Staci Rose

2008-03-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

It's a new endeavor of an old love...I used FIMO when it first hit the market. Most of the pieces I sold or gave away - I have only a few beads, and two pendants I just didn't have the heart to let go of left from those days.

Fast forward to a day I feel compelled to work with clay but can't get to a ceramic studio and don't have the fingers to use FIMO classic - working out the hard, finger-gnarling clay. I found FIMO soft! I bought a few colors to test it out and now have a nice collection, create my own colors by mixing, AND serve the Muse by creating some sculptured jewelry!

I was extremely pleased to see that Peggy, of Lucky Girl Trading Co and fellow Etsy artist, had written a very nice feature about these new pendants on her blog Lucky Girl Trading Co. - Make Every Day Your Lucky Day!

Lucky Girl Trading Company--Pretty Sparkly Things

In the spring of 2001 I was overwhelmed by sadness and huge piles of clutter. My marriage was in the midst of a very ugly ending, and he had left tons of his stuff behind. I suddenly realized that I was a very lucky girl to be rid of him, and Lucky Girl Trading Company was born. A few years later I met my lucky guy--who was selling a bit of jewelry--and married him in a hot air balloon ceremony in 2006. We've worked together to build Lucky Girl Trading into a fun and fulfilling enterprise. I've also discovered working with glass--one of my all-time favorite creative outlets. I've also discovered two ancient arts: Kumihimo and Temari. Both are centuries-old crafts, and both give me a zen-like tranquility while working. I truly am a Lucky Girl! Every day I gather pretty, sparkly things and send them to people. I imagine a person opening their mail and taking out their new pendant or chain or pouch. It's perfect--they have a huge smile on their face--and so do I. I'd love for that person to be you!

Click on the banner to view this fabulous shop!

Yay, Spring is Here!

2008-03-23T04:54:00.000-07:00

I have lived in many different climates; they even vary greatly from state to state, city to city here in the US. And, San Francisco, for the most part, has a very mild climate. Everyone worries about Earthquakes, and some people even claim there's "Earthquake Weather", but the seasons aren't as easy to distinguish as they are in say, Vermont. Sometimes, I miss the seasons...leaves turning, snow falling, flowers blooming, scorching heat waves...and then again, I appreciate the knowledge that I will never be buried in falling leaves, the roads won't be covered in black ice, flowers bloom all year long, and I've only experienced one heat wave in San Francisco in twelve years.

Alison created a lovely Etsy Treasury that depicts the gorgeous green of spring, some lovely art, and very generously included one of my Signature Swirl Polymer Clay Pendants. You can view this until Monday, March 24th just by clicking on the image.

BY ALLISON

Polymer clay has been a way to satisfy that inner artist in me. In general the clay is all that is used, not paint added. I combine the colors of clay to make a pleasing design called a cane. I then hand form that cane into all manner of wonderful objects. Being able to own my business, create what I love, and offering it for sale is a lifelong dream.

Visit her shop by clicking below.

Golden Whisky

2008-03-22T18:21:00.000-07:00

It's not what you think....although, I could probably use a good, stiff drink right now! The pain and weakness in my hands and arms has kept me from typing and is seriously chipping away at my sanity!

So, I definitely got the warm fuzzies when I saw Marie's Etsy Treasury, featuring fabulous art from EBSQ members - including, one of my gemstone bracelets, as well.

atelier marie mella - original and unique oil paintings

my name is marie, I am a full time professional painter, living in germany. welcome! My preferred paintings are the old flemish highly colored so called primitive (:-) If one day one painting of mine gets the slightest flair of these jolly companions, I will be so happy (:-) Working hard on texture, color and detail, I'd like to see my artwork going towards a kind of "primitive abstract" style. Click on her banner below to view the wonderful work in her shop!

Clive Owen Owes Me

2008-03-10T00:51:00.000-07:00

...err...Tracey Allyn Greene, fellow Etsy & WWAO artist, says he does. And, she's a doll, so he better own up.

She created a great Etsy Treasury I'm sorry to say I didn't get posted in time to view on Etsy, too. But, she included a pair of my gemstone earrings and I was delighted to see them!

And, Tracey created a masterpiece from some awful mobile phone photos...my neighbors were delighted to see their babies (a Persian and an American Short-Hair Tabby) watercolored so wonderfully. It made a perfect holiday gift! Be sure to check out her shop and her talent by clicking the banner below!

Beautiful Art from the Worldwide Women's Artist Organization

2008-03-08T15:12:00.000-08:00

I made a choice to join WWAO and have never looked back. I have found a supportive community of women artists, that, for the most part, always seem to know what I'm talking about and what I'm going through. I feel lucky to be included in this organization, contributing what I can and enjoying new experiences as well. Don't let me fool you! It ain't always pretty, but it is always wonderful! With over 300 members, not everyone agrees on everything, but that's the great part about learning experiences.

And then, real life gets in the way. As of lately, the joints in my fingers, palm, elbows and shoulders have been aching non-stop. Nothing helps, using them, not using them, ice, heat, rubbing, and I've had tons of blood tests and seen my doctor and will be seeing several specialists next week. Until then, typing is difficult, let alone creating art - the one thing that keeps me sane.

But, smiles lurk everywhere...

Worldwide Women Artists is an international collective of women artists showing and selling our original art through the worldwide web. As women artists, we give birth to our ideas in a variety of styles and media. We embrace the diversity of each other's work, celebrating the joy of creating our art and sharing it with the world.

Staci Rose Art & MyCatLulu

2008-03-04T14:51:00.000-08:00

I was happily surprised when Becca, Etsy artist and author of MyCatLulu Notes on Art & Life blog, let me know she had created a wonderful feature about my work!

Hey, hey, hey - MyCatLulu Gocco Goodies

I'm lover not a fighter who enjoys the company of people, the songs of birds, and an occasional Mia tai. Don't like mean people, but really who would. Don't own bowling shoes, but I did play in a league when I was in 5th grade. Other than art, my passion is traveling. My last trip took me to Kauai, Hawaii...lovely.

Click on the banner to visit her shop!

WWAO March Exhibit - Our Art, Our Selves: Selected Self-Portraits

2008-03-01T16:10:00.000-08:00

I am VERY proud to support this wonderful exhibit of self-portraits by some of the fabulous artists of Worldwide Women Organization!

To view each artist's work individually, please click on the participants names below:

Nora Blansett

Diane Clancy

Robin Hernandez

Noelle Hunt

Carole Lago

Cathy O. Lewis

Judy Matechuk

Debi McSwain

Ujwala Prabhu

Donna Ridgway

Tara Robertson

Nora Sallows

Sharon K. Shubert

Jan A. Sullivan

Teresa M. Turner

Deborah Voizin

A special thank you to Robin Hernandez for organizing this event! Robin best summarizes her professional work with sculpture, ceramics, paintings, and other wonderful multi-media art in this way:

"I make art using a variety of media. Of particular interest to me is creating art from found objects, and returning them to their former glory as prized property. In blending the human figure with these “rescued” objects--I create sculpture that is highly anthropomorphic, thus illustrating the connections we have to our personal belongings.

I am an interdisciplinary artist, not feeling constrained to work in any one medium."

Click on her banner to view her work!

Just a Bit Corky - We Are All a Bit Corky Here

2008-02-28T15:29:00.000-08:00

You know you're in good company with a nice bottle of wine (Riesling happens to be my favorite next to a nice Muscat for desert...) - that delicious taste rolling over your tongue...that warm feeling flowing down your throat also wrapped around your being by laughter and friendship.

Moving to San Francisco opens you up to the world of wine...it permeates the culture. Napa/Sonoma are only short drives away and people are proud to serve local wines in almost any restaurant. (Not to mention the Monterrey Bay Area - a delicious neighbor).

And, then, back where civilization began, in one of the
fewgreen havens left in the Middle East, I had the
opportunity to visit the Golan Heights winery - an
experience I will NEVER forget and always cherish. I
boldly tell you - if you have the chance to purchase or
try Yarden wines - you won't regret a single swig!

And, while we are all a little bit quirky, some artists are a bit corky...and Connie, fellow Etsy artist, was able to nicely bring them together in this fabulous Etsy Treasury! You can view these pieces as well as one of my featured Vino Hot Stuff Wine Cork Trivets by clicking the image below until Friday, February 29th:

The Crafty Wino - Corky Creations and More!

Welcome to The Crafty Wino!
Here you will find fun and useful handmade items, most of which are related to a love of wine. I crave to make things that are fun, useful, and most of the time related to my love of wine. And as I satisfy my craving I like to enjoy a nice glass of wine, whether it be a smooth Merlot or a sassy semi-sweet Missouri wine. Hence The Crafty Wino was born! I prefer variety when I create, so rarely will you see something in the shop that is exactly alike. Thanks for visiting, and check back often as I'm always making something.
Click on the banner below to visit these tasty creations!

Turqoise & Friends

2008-02-24T16:53:00.000-08:00

In caves and mines Turquoise has it's own friends. Jasper, Copper, Malachite, Lapis - the fabulous Eilat Stone from Israel is a gorgeous example.

But, here above ground, Turquoise found friends with EBSQ and WWAO artists and Torrie Smiley in her fabulous Etsy Treasury - which happily includes one of my gemstone bracelets. She displays the Turquoise and many wonderful artistic applications - click on the image to view until Monday, February 25th.

Torrie Smiley
"Welcome to my Gallery featuring original landscape and still life paintings using oil, acrylic, watercolor, and pastel. All art is original paintings. ***No prints*** I am primarily a self taught artist who paints using oil, acrylic, watercolor, and pastel. I guess you could say I am a mood artist. I paint what I feel at the time using the medium that will best capture the feel and look I am trying to achieve. I have become known for my different renditions of pears, ranging from realism to colorful impressionism. My Martini Series has become an award winning series and collector favorite. Enjoy the Art!"
Click on the banner below to view her wonderful work!

Faves: EBSQ & Bestbooks

2008-02-22T20:10:00.000-08:00

Etsy has attracted some fabulous self-representing artists. Not only providing art and craft at excellent prices, cutting out any annoying middlemen, producing gallery quality art you can pass down through the family in a plethora of styles and subject matter. How excellent is that?!!

So, it's difficult to pick favorites, I have a list that's a few hundred items long. But, Elis Cooke, a rock star of an artist herself, was able to create a beautiful Etsy Treasury with fabulous works of art available from Etsy artists - but I'd swear they were worthy of The Met. Click on the image to view until Sunday, February 24th.

Into the Blystic - Elis Cooke Original Art

Not only is her art some of the most beautiful I've ever seen, she is a wonderful supporter of my art! Most of her pieces have an ethereal quality that looks like it comes so easily from her being - absolutely awing and extremely humbling. Specializing in Mixed Media, Handmade Paper Collage, Abstract, Bookarts and Monotypes. Enjoy her work by clicking on the banner below:

High School Color

2008-02-22T19:21:00.000-08:00

I attended two high schools...neither had the greatest color combos. The first, was SUPPOSED to be gold and blue. But...gold doesn't translate into fabric unless it's lamet, and I'd LOVE to see a bunch of football players touting that uniform!

The second was white and bleh green. Wasn't quite olive, wasn't quite kelly, a nondescript green paired with the absence of color - white. Bleh.

It was funny to bring back these memories when I saw the Etsy Treasury that the shopowner of AbbilyBabbily created. She even included my dotted polymer clay pendant! Click on the image to view until Sunday, February 24th:

Hello and thanks for coming to my Etsy shop, AbbilyBabbily! The term 'AbbilyBabbily' comes from my son on the day his little sister was born. He saw her for the first time and asked her name. When he was told Abby, he immediately called her 'AbbilyBabbily'. And it fits, she talks a lot. But, you can see her fabulous glass creations by clicking her banner below: