Friday's Fish Tale and Flowers WIP'S

 A fish story in the making is this future wall hanging. Last year at Wallowa Lake, Oregon a man from Pendleton caught a world record Kokanee Salmon weighing 9.67 lbs, at 27.75 inches long. Wallowa Lake Fishing One of the galleries in Joseph, which is about a mile north of the lake, asked if I could create a fish wall hanging that would be about the same length as this big monster fish, so I've tackled the challenge. Watch, someone will break the record again and I will have to make another one, oh darn? Lol. Actually, these are fun to do. Hopefully this fella will take off to the art show with me on Monday, and be beaded and wired and ready to show at the gallery next week.

 This is another one of my fun and funky abstracts in the works, again hopefully destined to go into another gallery in Joseph next week. I'm trying to decide whether I like it better the way you see it above, or below. I still have a few layers of color to add to it, but times getting short so I'd better get this finished today or tomorrow.

My stepson is coming from California today, we go to Kent's parents tomorrow after work, Saturday we celebrate Kent's birthday, and Sunday we are back here to speak in church. I can see me finishing these and one more piece Sunday night as we are going to be sooooo busy for the next few days. Ah well, so much for a relaxing weekend aye? The upside is that I'll be stopping at a friend's place on Monday to spend the night and help her with a blog set up. I'm excited about that as she creates some amazing vintage western art and wall hangings as well as jewelry, so she needs to be on the web! We also get to visit with a teacher we had at church when we were 14. Gee that was a loooong time ago.
Then I will stay with a friend at Wallowa Lake as we have a house sitter I don't want to uproot just for a few days. So I will get to fish with my friend, and we shall see whether we can catch a record trout from her dock. Probably not, but a girl can dream right?

Monday's Mad Dash.....

 I only have a moment to run in, post and take off to do other "stuff", but the 3 queens are finally done! Once I put their little felt dots on their stands, sign them and carefully wrap them up, I can get them on their way to Australia where the Queen of Hearts is waiting amongst a bevvy of cats and I'm sure other delightful creations.

 I've already started on a fish sculpture for a gallery in Oregon, and need to do some catch up for other opportunities before I make my weekly run in to the in-laws. It sure feels good to get these ladies done.

You know that you should never say never, but I really would love to say I will never commission so many pieces at one time again, at least at this juncture in my life, but then I'm a glutton for a challenge or punishment, however you choose to look at it. I wouldn't mind doing another set of these, on my own time, as I can see some possibilities for changes. It's always that way though isn't it? You start on  a project, and before you know it, ideas are whirling around in your head while you are trying to focus on the task at hand. Well, now to the other things I've got to do....have a great Monday all!

Unarmed, but dangerous-

ly close to being finished, the Queen of Diamonds and Queen of Spades await their arms and crowns. Their sister, the Queen of Clubs, is only half dressed so she begged out on this photo shoot. I hope to have them finished and on their way to Australia this week, whew! I never thought I would have a problem with a commission, but it seems that as soon as I said yes, life threw me a curve. Luckily the sweet gal who purchased these is an angel and very understanding.
Wish me luck as I attack the house tonight and finally get it in order, so I can get back to these gals and finish up later. I need to take a break and get up off the hinder ender for a bit. Sitting most of the day is not good, but I am very pleased with the progress I've made. Prayers work!

Have you ever had .....

..........  what appears to be a stress dream and not know why? Last night I dreamed I was in Oregon getting ready to help with the Wallowa Valley Festival of Arts, only to discover I had left my two entries back in Utah, EEEK!!! I don't know why it happened; for the first time since I've been entering into this show I have my work done well ahead of time due to the change in set up and the jury process, which is most of the battle in my opinion. Being accepted is the other part, and you can see by this photo that I'm in! So where the dream came from I don't know.
Sure I'm under a lot of stress right now. I live in a never ending, open ended life plan as we are not sure when my father-in-law will pass away. Each week as I drive the 100 miles one way to go spend a couple of days with Mom and Dad, he looks more and more gaunt, and complains of feeling weaker all the time. He sleeps most of the day now, and is in such pain that we just don't know how he stands it. He gets dressed every morning though, with a lot of trouble due to severe arthritis, and will try and do things such as water the lawn, take out the trash, and so on. Sometimes he looks as if he will collapse and we are amazed at how he keeps going. So hubby and I take turns tending to them, he goes in on the weekends and sometimes I go as well, and trying to keep Mom from doing things she will regret as she doesn't see very well and hears even less. I've put in a garden for them and us, and it gives Dad something to tend to in that he makes sure the little Parson's Patch is watered.
When I'm home my job, besides tending the twins 3 days a week is to help keep hubby's spirits up. His job is tremendously stressful, and while he doesn't dump all his problems on me, he is not a very happy camper right now and that wears on me because I hate to see him so frustrated with the mountain of work he has in trying to clean up a school that has been let go for over 10 years now. Add to that trying to keep up with children and grandchildren, church responsibilities and such, it gets so crazy I can't concentrate on the commission I have to finish, much less any other art. If you're like me a messy house is a downer and adds to all that. Right now I feel like a boat without a rudder, directionless and wandering aimlessly adrift. That must be the reason for the dream because I'm actually ready for the show and can't wait to head to Oregon. Thank goodness I get to stay home this weekend! All will work out I know, but it's funny how dreams happen.

Orange and Black and Halloween Like That!

 Orange and black and Halloween like that!

we decorate each Autumn,

For fun and scares, black cats and bats....

we frolic, and shriek among them.

The moon and sun will take their turn,

to add the colors of Fall...

with chill and cold and sun and night,

it's the spookiest season of all!

A little fun with vintage buttons, beads and wire to get you in a Halloween mood. 

SIMPLYSHERYL'S

Crows or Raven....

 There are those who would crow, or not depending on their character. Such was a former president I admire greatly - "I have no desire to crow over anybody or to see anybody eating crow, figuratively or otherwise. We should all get together and make a country in which everybody can eat turkey whenever he pleases. "
Harry S. Truman

Here's a quote that gives one pause to think - "Method is more important than strength, when you wish to control your enemies. By dropping golden beads near a snake, a crow once managed to have a passer-by kill the snake for the beads."
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
In Alaska the "crows" were actually ravens, birds large enough to haul away a cat or small dog. They rivaled the eagles in size and noise.When I hear a " Caw Caw" today I still expect to see these giant shiny black birds, but most often see a much smaller version. 

 

Regardless, crows and ravens are the subject of many an artist's muse.  I've tried my hand at them as well, and would like to explore this topic more. I have prints available at Mother's Dream Artworks of these three versions. Have you used crows or ravens in your art?

Lovely sparkly glittery things........

 I've always loved sparkly pretties, especially when they are colorful and wearable. Mom used to have charm bracelets that we would put on and play with when we were doing the dress up thing.We loved to look through all her pretties and try them on, and since she's passed I've gotten a couple of her pretties to remind me of her.

 I also love to create gifts of all sorts for friends and loved ones, and anyone whose looked at beads knows you can't just buy a couple of strands. Once you get started, you come up with all sorts of rationales for why you need this or that color or style. What woman doesn't like to have a nice matching set of earrings and bracelet or necklace to match their favorite outfit?

 Okay, so maybe there are a couple of women out there, but really..... I would bet truth be told, they have a secret stash of bangles and baubles somewhere they will pull out for that special occasion. For me, that occasion can be as simple as running to Walmart.

I've opened a new shop on etsy to sell jewelry and collectibles. I have a bunch of pretty things created, and will get them all posted here shortly, but here is where I'm starting. I use all glass, metal or gemstone beads, no plastic here! To see where I'm starting, here's a peek at my etsy shop, Simply Sheryl's

Roadtrip Roses ACEO prints on etsy

Roses are some of the loveliest of flowers with a long tradition of being a symbol of romance and love. They were my mom's favorite flower, so whenever someone wanted to show they cared, roses were the gift for her.
The earliest roses are said to have flourished 35 million-years ago, with rose hips being found in Europe and petrified rose wreaths have been unearthed from ancient Egyptian tombs.
The tradition of giving a red rose to your sweetheart became popular in the 1700’s when King Charles II of Sweden introduced Europe to the Persian custom of the “language of flowers”.
Different colors of roses have special meaning such as RED for romantic love, YELLOW for joy, friendship and affection, DEEP PINK means gratitude and appreciation, LIGHT PINK means admiration, and WHITE means purity, reverence, humility.
The roses in this painting are yellow with an edging of deep pink on the petals, so perhaps they could be for that wonderful friend who brings joy into your life, and you want to show your gratitude, affection and appreciation to.  This little print is perfect for a gift to that special friend, and can be tucked into a gift bag or basket easily. Learn more about them at my etsy shop.
Do you have roses in your flower beds? What is your favorite color?

Americana jewelry and art for Spring at American Holiday Artists Studios & Marketplace

 Before you know it summer will be here and fireworks will be lighting up the sky. At least it's supposed to although you can't tell by the weather. I did hear that the meteorologists are saying warm weather is on it's way so it's time to think summer clothes and how to dress up your favorite outfits.

 I've created a bracelet and earrings suitable for any nautical or patriotic themed ensemble from gorgeous glass beads.

Another mixed media art piece, created on a wooden scoop. I used stamps, vintage buttons and other tools to create the texture on this piece. I then used layers of paint and sealer to create the color for this piece. A one of a kind original, you can find this at American Holiday Artists Studios & Marketplace

A Pretty in PInk Maneki Neko for Japan

A Pretty in PInk Maneki Neko for Japan
If you have a moment please stop by and see what Eleanor is doing to raise funds for the Japan earthquake victims. You get a lovely gift, and can choose between several charities that the money paid for the charms goes to. She is donating 100% of costs, not including shipping.

Hippie Art?

A little music to go with this post...hopefully....

 The other day as I was showing my husband these newest creations he asked when I decided to create hippie art... huh? I asked him what he meant and he said he thought the colors, so bright and the patterns reminded him of California and hippie art. Well duh! Lol... I am a Cali girl born in Salinas... and yes I spent a bit of time on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley right after the riots....

 ....so I guess it comes naturally? Funny he would see it that way, but I am having fun, and hippie or not, it's a nice change of pace for me. The wood scoop at the top is about 16 inches tall and will hang or sit. The pink and orange and lime green still needs it's backing and frame. I did do the antiquing and some touch ups with color. I wish I had taken photos during the day as I just don't have good lighting in our tiny cave. Hopefully you get the idea.

This one is ready to hang, and again, I will have to try and get some daylight photos as these just don't show the true colors. I antiqued this one as well, and am pleased with the over all result. I can see some fun possibilities with this medium.
What are you working on that's different or new for you?

To Antique...or not...that is the question among others

 I have become so addicted to these textural abstracts! Fun and challenging, as I try out different color combos, they give me a freedom to explore color in a way I've never done before.

I've also re-visited the whole color purple and shades of thing in regards to photos. This is a bit off in color, but as close as I could come. My husband says the painting on the top is done, and ignored both inquiries to this one, so I'm thinking he's not fond of it, or it was just coincidental....lol. I was going for a spring like feel with shades of peach and violet, but am not sure yet if I've done what I could. I threw in green to give contrast.  I'm trying to decide if I'm done layering color on both pieces, and if either one should have a final antiquing to bring out the texture more. What do you think?

Craft supplies on ebay.....

 In my continuing effort to find focus in my art, and make room to work in my tiny studio room I'm getting rid of pieces I know I will never use. Above is a nice batch of wood textile bobbins that would be great for art doll bases or Halloween shakers, among other creations.

 These tin canisters are so cool and I had imagined painting a nice apples or cherries border on them and spiffing them up for a kitchen with glass knobs for the tops, but alas, I just can't seem to find the time and so I'm letting these go as well.

Here are a set of children's blocks, some are very old and very cool, but again, I know that I'm never going to get to them. I planned on using them as bases for Christmas creations such as Santas or snowmen. What would you use them for? They are all starting at very low prices so check them out if you are looking for a good deal. Here's the link to see more about them... Simply Sheryl's

Bitzy Bee is buzzing around ebay...

 Pretty little Bitzy Bee

Buzzing everywhere...

Busy little Bitzy Bee

Do you really care?

Fancy little Bitzy Bee

Honey is your game...

Flightly little Bitzy Bee

Sweetness is your name!

A gourd folk art ornament  to be found on ebay. She would love to buzz around your home!

Vintage Victorian Easter Bunny Treasure Keep on ebay

A sneak peek at a paper mache box created with storing Easter treasures in. I've taken a Victorian Woolsen Spice card and copied it, then added it to this hand painted and embellished box. Aren't the little bunnies darling? Stop by my ebay auction to see more. Easter Bunny Treasure Keep
Here's to a wonderful Monday.....

Bernice Bunny on American Holiday Artist's Studios & Marketplace

 

Bernice Bunny has gathered her colored eggs and a sweet little chick to get ready for Easter.

 She wants to get ready for the Easter parade, Shhhh, don't tell her it's a bit later this year!

 Doesn't Bernice look lovely though, in her sweet homespun dress and sparkly little hat?

Bernice had me use the best trims and ribbons to dress up her outfit. As I was sculpting her she made sure I gave her big beautiful eyes, and nice bunny ears so that the big boy bunnies would be sure to be smitten. Bernice has made her debut at our American Holiday Artist's Studios & Marketplace for this coming month. Easter is already hopping at our marketplace so pop on over and enjoy!

The Layers of Life and Art

I've been reading "Of Human Bondage" by W. Somerset Maugham. It's the story of a young man with a club foot, who is orphaned at a young age. His discoveries in life and human nature take him through a period when he is in his late teens and early 20's, where he thinks he wants to be an artist, in fact he is sure he has the "genius" for it. He soon finds out though, that his aptitude for art amounts to being able to copy others quite well. After much soul searching, and a compatriots death by starvation and suicide he finally realizes that perhaps he hasn't got what it takes, and asks others their opinion. He is told that while he is good at the mechanics, he has no real "genius" for art. His friends have the mind set that you must have the overwhelming drive, the "do or die" attitude towards art, where all else suffers, even family, so that one can paint. The idea of making money wasn't as important as creating. But, without money, you have no resources to create. Quite a dilemma, wouldn't you say?

That got me to thinking about where my artistic journey is taking me. I love to create holiday figures, or storybook figures such as this White Rabbit, from Alice in Wonderland.

I made him a couple of years ago, and he was sure a fun challenge. I have a tendency to be very literal in my thinking, and that spills over into my art. As much as I would love to create whimsical figures that delight and bring smiles to those who see them, I have an even stronger drive to paint and sculpt in a more serious vein. I would also like to make money at it, so that we can do the things we want to do when hubby retires, and not feel like we have to pinch pennies all the time. Then you throw in the human factor of the needs of those around me. I am so in tune with those around me, that I can't seem to step back and let them find other resources or support so I have more time to create. I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing, but then am I being arrogant in thinking I'm the only one who can do it right, or do I truly care those around me and want to be helpful.
I find it interesting that I should get "Of Human Bondage" at a stage in my life where I'm assessing where I want to head with my art. Do you ever have those sorts of life coincidences? What are your challenges in your creative ventures?

Abstract Art- Challenging Myself...

 Awhile back Alyice Edrich of The Dabbling Mum shared a youtube video of work by Paul Bozzo. It was fascinating to me how he put his pieces together so I decided to try my hand at his technique. My first piece warped as I used a bare canvas, but this one didn't as I used a piece of standard board which is a type of lightweight sheet rock. It's easy to cut, and easy to work with.

Then I gathered stamps, doilies, and tools to create texture just as Paul does. I took a different approach than he, more a spring time theme for the fun of it. It was a blast to try this, and I may do more, perhaps with different themes. Layering the paint and sealer was also interesting as I like bold color but am still learning the whole "what comes first" thing. It's different for different media, some you would start light to dark, others dark to light and this ended up being a bit of both.
I would sure love some feedback on this and how it turned out. Thanks for stopping by. :-)

I'm not goofing off, really I'm not....

 Okay, rules for taking photos #1 Never wrap something until you know the photos are clear and sharp....  Ahhh well, what can I say, live and learn right?
Among the many projects in my studio were creating this pair of earrings for a family member who has a birthday coming up shortly. Simple with spring colors to perk up any pink lovers ensemble, I sure hope she likes these.

Here's the box I jazzed up to hold the earrings. It's always nice to have "stuff" on hand to make gifts out of isn't it? One of the advantages of being a creative spirit.
Well, back to the studio to work on 3 dolls that were commissioned to go along with my last Queen of Hearts doll, as well as a new art technique I'm testing and a bunny for the upcoming AHA Spring launch. What is going on in your studio these days?

Horse is finished, yay!

Hmmmm blogger is up to no good again...lol. I have been slogging through back pain and mental fatigue trying to get this piece done, and finally! So I've taken the photos, filled out the entry form for the show, and it's off to the post office in a bit to send the entry off. 
I knew it! As soon as I try to add another picture below the text, it pops underneath the other photo, oh well. So here is El Caballo De Calabasa II, a gourd horse who has a bronzed and silver look. Hubby wants me to start on the next one now, while I'm in the groove...:-) It's so nice to have his support. My house is upside down right now, but it will get put back together next week, I think. I now have 3 art dolls as a commission to do, and so it goes. Thanks to all who were cheering me on. I look forward to seeing what you've been up to. Oh, if you want to see what is happening and more information on this art show here's the link. Wallowa Valley Festival of Arts  I'll bet you've never seen a more beautiful and inspiring place to have an art show...;-)