Hiking in Zion National Park, Utah
We just returned from a week away with the camper up near Zion National Park in Utah. So good to get away and we are fortunate that we live only about two and half hours away from this stunning area up in Utah. Pristine vistas with unbelievable rock formations. It never ceases to leave me speechless and in awe of it's beauty, no matter how many times we return there! We only hiked one day as the temps were higher than normal (90's) and there is always plenty to do up that way...it was great getting away, but also good to come home. This summer is going to be a busy one for us and so we were glad to get away with some R & R!
"The Abundant Heart"
As I posted last in January many artists in Las Vegas were given these 16" diameter hearts by the local chapter of St.Jude Children's Hospital to create artwork on. Some artists took on the larger hearts which are 5' diameter. These all went up for auction at the Gala Event at the Four Season's Hotel here in Las Vegas just last weekend. This is my piece which was created in a mixed media collage....I loved making it and considered it an honor and a privilege to have participated. It is such a worthy organization and I will do one every year, if asked. This organization treats children with cancer and catastrophic diseases whether they have insurance, or not...a pretty noble endeavor and cause, for sure. I still have no word on what the piece sold for, but am sure it is more than I could have afforded to give them, so this is my small way of helping out....and my pleasure, indeed!
Kristin and myself in front of Viva Las Vegas Stamps
About a month ago I had a friend come to Las Vegas for a visit....we had met on Facebook about a year ago. Her name is Kristin Hubick and she is not only a fabulous person in her own right, but also a fantastic vendor who owns Retro Cafe Art Gallery...an online supplier of the most wonderful supplies for artists and crafters. You can find the link here. I can't tell you how many terrific things I have purchased from her and her service is top notch, too!
One day while she was here we met for the day and she wanted to go to Viva Las Vegas Stamps...sort of a landmark here. A lot of locals and tourists go to this shop as it has more stamps than there are stars...seriously. We had a great time there and then went to lunch afterwards.....
One day while she was here we met for the day and she wanted to go to Viva Las Vegas Stamps...sort of a landmark here. A lot of locals and tourists go to this shop as it has more stamps than there are stars...seriously. We had a great time there and then went to lunch afterwards.....
While we were having lunch, Kristin presented me with a gift she had made for me. I was not only surprised by her lovely gesture but upon opening it I was deeply touched....she had taken a photo of the heart that I had created and made an absolutely beautiful charm out of it on a necklace! She remarked "I know that you donated the heart to St.Jude's, but wanted you to have it with you forever". Seriously, I thought I was going to cry....I don't think I have ever been so touched by anything that someone has made for me!
On the other side is this touching quote by George Sand....how perfect a quote is that for this piece?! I will treasure this forever and thank you again Kristin, from the bottom of my heart, I will treasure it always. Not only is Kristin Hubick a great shop owner, but a very talented artist in her own right, and I am so glad we have become friends!
Online classes at Artful Gathering!
As many of you know, and for some who may not know, I am teaching an online class this summer on Artful Gathering 2012......you can find the link right here. I am teaching a six week class titled "Metamorphosis Collage Bracelets". I am so very excited and can't wait for the classroom to open up on June 6th! I am looking forward to meeting my students and getting to know them better...I love to teach others and this is the perfect opportunity for me to do so without having to leave home and go to the expenses of travel and lodging....and the same for the students, too! Six weeks of 24/7 classes, in the comfort of one's own home....what could be better than that?! I will be available every day to answer questions on the videos and guide them every inch of the way. It is important to me that they not only learn the techniques, but enjoy themselves while learning....after all, that's what it's really all about! There are many other class offerings also....all fantastic teachers with wonderful talent! Awhile back I created a promo video that tells a bit about the class and gives you a glimpse into my wonderful studio....I will post it below. Registration for the class is still ongoing...it's all very exciting!
Here are a few examples of what I will be teaching in the class. These are so much fun to create, I have had much success with them in the galleries and want to share what I have learned with other artists. These two bracelets in particular will be raffled off to two students before the class is over!
I will be posting again as the class begins to share my experiences with you all....wish me luck and I am so excited and very grateful for this experience that I know will prove to be wonderful!
I will be posting again as the class begins to share my experiences with you all....wish me luck and I am so excited and very grateful for this experience that I know will prove to be wonderful!