peartreegallery -art by teri

Clematis and Birdhouse demonstration!

2012-01-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

I am excited to have this

demonstration documented

so I can share it with you all!

My watercolor group meets every Wednesday and this little sketch was selected as our subject for the day.

The resource (clipped from a discarded bank calendar) had a white background so the class wanted to have a white background.... I will post that later when the class gets it completed. It is turning out fine but not my favorite approach to a painting,

After they left, I went straight to work on the same image with a more negative approach.

I remembered to snap a photo after each step and I think you will find it interesting to scroll through the 12 images and "see" the painting emerge.

Flowers .... I love them!!!

2012-01-03T19:11:00.000-08:00

Another busy day in the studio...

Student #1 Paper Collage started of Daisey type flower
Student #2 Basic Watercolor Negative Painting of a Daisey
Student #3 Tempera painting of Tulips

Along with helping these three students I was able to complete some office work, have lunch with my husband and paint a tulip card plus signed up a new student.

It was a good day and I love teaching .... but I am anxious to have time to paint on my own projects. I have so many ideas in my head, in my sketchbook and in a pile of projects started but not finished.

2012-01-02T20:23:00.001-08:00

Fresh start for the New Year!

2012-01-02T20:21:00.000-08:00

I would say today was a good day ....

lots of things accomplished.

Today was a good day for another BIG reason ... we put away all the holiday stuff at the brick and mortar ...fresh start for the new year!

I still have some office work to complete for the end of the year and the beginning of the new.

We have a system that helps us with orders and filing that requires tabs and labels so I have to print little titles ... I do it the old fashion way with my pen (no computer).

In the classroom/studio, I demonstrated pushing a color for one student. He was using green with no value shifts, no variety ... just green ... everything was flat. I think the lesson helped him see the possibilities.

With another student, I started a basic collage lesson/project. She is super excited to be taking classes with me. I am really in the mood to do some collage work of my own so look for that in the near future. During my own time today, I was able to finish two greeting cards to sell.

I worked in my sewing room tonight to create a round table cloth we need for the showroom table. I selected a blue and silver fabric with snowflakes, suns and stars. It is very wintery. I will try to posts a few snaps of it tomorrow.

I feel good about all I accomplished today. Sometimes, feeling good is what it is all about!!!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T20:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone!

I am going to try and post more often and get back into the habit of blog reading and communicate more with others I have clicked to follow.
I know I won't successfully diet or excercies .... or clean and organize.
Those are my usual new year's resolutions... but I am more likely to blog and post that I am to jog and fast.

So, for 2012 I resolve to be creative and blog about what I create.

I am in the mood to collage and work with paper and paste. This will be my first series of projects that I will be writing about. I love paper and started pulling out some of my stash.... I like art paste more than mediums because I really don't like the glossy shine. I will post some of my collages soon, most of my collages are backgrounds for future work ... the backgrounds are fresher and free of small details that come with the
finishing of the piece.

So gather your paper stash, favorite paper glue and let's work together or you can wait to see what i blog about and follow my lead.

Scribble!

2011-10-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

I have a young student that comes in for classes every Friday and the first 10 to 15 minutes are spent pouting, sniffling and crying because she is so afraid of doing it WRONG and doesn't trust herself to know what to do.

So.... I today presented a project I have used before....scribbling ....random marks with related colors .... even this baffled her for a bit.

I gave her a surface to work on and a few watercolor pencils (warm colors). We drew a border together with the aid of a straight edge and all four of our hands. I then told her to pick a color and Scribble! She again got teary eyed and said she didn't know what to do ... so I demonstrated for her on a smaller piece of paper and she started in, rotating colors as I called out for her to "switch!"

The thought of drawing Autumn Leaves would have put her over the edge so we traced around the leaves I have pressed in an old phone book. She is light handed with her colors so after we had traced several to fill the paper in a pleasing way, I had her go over the outline for more pigment.

Then, following my lead, she added small amounts of clean water to the leaf shapes and watched as her scribbles melted into beautiful soft Autumn Colors.

Her time was over before she could complete the background to which she had added more watercolor pencil (cool colors).
Hopefully she will return next Friday with a smile on her face, anticipating the FUN we have ahead of us.

Fresh from the Fall Farmers' Market!

2011-10-01T13:34:00.000-07:00

My friend from Portland bought four bags of yummy produce from our local farmers' market and shared a few items with me ... I immediately drew and painted the radishes she left with me.

If you treat the group as a whole, the colors work to unify the painting.

The radishes are supposed to be mild with just little heat .... we shall see.

Swans on the river.

2011-09-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

How lucky I am to live in a small community and enjoy the benefits of observing the "wild life" that shares this space with us.

I live on the river and this morning two deer were crossing the river. I have mixed feelings about the deer population ... they are beautiful in my river but should stay off the roads and out of the garden.
Anyway, this post is about swans, not deer, both of which live on or near my river.

My paintings are based on a snapshot from the paper, the photographer is a friend and he said I could use his image for paintings. He caught the swans at the right angle and I wanted to teach my students about relfelctions.
Dark blue is the key to this being as successful as possible ...

New You Tube ... Bleeding Hearts Parts B C D E

2011-09-14T08:59:00.000-07:00

I think Part B will be fun to watch after I get better at recording .... the learning curve starts very LOW!
Part C, Part D and Part E.
I welcome your comments ... and you don't even have to be kind because I have a list of my own already of things to do differently!

Have a great day ... get those brushes wet and paint somethin'!!!!!!!

New You Tube ... Bleeding Hearts!

2011-09-14T07:32:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!
I have returned ... the You Tube video for the whimsy was trouble from the start and I may never get the rest of it uploaded ... so I may record a new whimsey if you ask.
BUT
I recorded a watercolor demo series of me painting a bleeding heart greeting card and I am uploading them with much more ease .... it is amazing what my IT guy can teach me about these things!!!
So take a look at these ... I realized after viewing and editing them that I need to rotate my camera .... don't get a neck cramp watching them.

thanks for following
teri

Video .... ready to give it a try!

2011-08-23T08:53:00.000-07:00

I posted back on July 9th that I was going to try and post video demo ....I boasted of my ONE TOUCH video recorder ... then I was crushed to realize they had not been truthful (they LIED, ha ha , ONE BUTTON hahahah).

Well, all these weeks later and two tech hours with my buddy ELI. (thank you, Eli) I think I am ready to post the first of many.

My first mistake was length. Size does matter .... I recorded for almost 20 minutes and then realized that is a "no no". So I am breaking the demo into little snippets for you to view, follow and then go on to the next.
Watercolor Whimsy part A

It's been fun (after I got over the frustration) and I have the second lesson recorded and will edit and post soon ...need to get the WC whimsy out there to my viewing audience (giggle).

Tissue Paper .... I love it!!!

2011-08-14T19:41:00.001-07:00

Earlier, I posted one of my student's tissue paper projects .... her work was based on my original piece. I have a long running attractive to layers of paper and color. I created many paper collages, way back in college, (ha ha collage ... college, whatever) mostly with expensive color aide paper ... do they still sell that stuff? I find to very calming to cut and paste .... don't we all???

I have been waiting to finish my flower tissue paper project with the addition of cut out letters and today I took the time to find all the right letters. Yeah, I was able to finish a project.

I flipped though my stash of magazines for find just the right letters, considering size, color and font. (that's a funny word, "font", don't you agree?) Snip, snip, clip, I arranged the letters and spelled out one of my favorite sayings, "Bloom where you are planted."

I have read this saying from time to time on novelty items, cards and posters. It always speaks to me about doing the best I can. I googled the saying to see if I could use it without fear of plagiarism, seems to be up for grabs. There were many posts about the origin and deep meaning for this simple saying .... I attach no deep meaning to it, for me it's translation is basic, just do the best in the moment and you will (hopefully) survive.

Arranging the letters, I did find it interesting that without just the right "W" (I had to remove one and find another) ... the phrase could still work ... "Bloom HERE, you are planted." I saw this as a positive saying about hometowns and being rooted in the history and future of the community in which I live.

Here, there or where, I think it's a good saying, I hope you like the piece .... and I hope you bloom, where ever you are.

Creating .... Keep at it!!!!

2011-08-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

Many of my summer students are finishing projects and preparing for the school schedules that will fill their calendars and time.
They will put away their art supplies and carry on with all the tasks their teachers and families put in front of them. Some supplies will be forgoteen under piles of clutter and some will be tucked away in closets or under the bed.... until next summer.

Of course, I encourage all my students to keep at it ... but life goes on and not all can fit into their busy lives that which makes us who we are .... ART!
Doodling, drawing, painting, writing, daydreaming ... thinking outside the box... don't let it go.
Keep at it !

Sunflowers!

2011-07-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

Another trip to the Farmers' Market before art class ... today nothing edible .... I was on the hunt for SUNFLOWERS and the first vendor I have purchased from before had NONE .... but a new vender ... the first time for them had what I was looking for... beautiful SUNFLOWERS. A nice variety of sizes and colors, they aren't just yellow any more you know? They were very eager to have a paying customer and told me about the way they were grown and I could tell they were dedicated to the organic way of growing and harvesting the items. I smiled and told them these lovely ladies were going to be the subject for my art class today and they looked puzzled at first but after it sunk in they were interested in what I was telling them. We talked about gourds that he might have to sell next week .... mmmmmm ... what can I do with more gourds?

Water Lily

2011-07-27T14:38:00.001-07:00

I was helping a young student with her drawing idea of a snake ... not too many people like snakes.

Luckily for her, I do like them and know a bit about them. We have a "discussion" going on about their nostrils.

The plan was to surround her snake with waterlilies and lily pads. I was helping her with that part of the drawing.(on another piece of paper .. of course!)

This brought back memories of painting them years ago and I sorted through the brain cells later in the day to share this lesson with one of my watercolor students.

Our goal has been to get transparent dark values and this lesson helps.

Oh, the snake project will be finished next week, perhaps I will post it.

Farmers' Market ... not just for eating stuff!

2011-07-26T18:44:00.001-07:00

I love the farmers' market across the street from our shop ... Tuesday and Thursday and Saturday.

I go there atleast 2 out of the three days. We eat local whenever we can ... fresh corn on the cob is our summer favorite. Today I walked over and selected two green peppers and two small cucumbers, to be eaten by me tomorrow for lunch. But first, my farmers' market gems were the subject matter for my watercolor class.

We drew them, looking at the shapes of the pepper itself, and the shapes of the highlights and the shadows. We then applied layers of transparent watercolor and worked to create a small painting.

Everyone left with a watercolor they were pleased with .... plus I have fresh goodies for lunch!

Secret Garden Painting.

2011-07-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

Hello bloggers!
I still don't have the video camera working the way it should so I am posting a series of photos to show what I did ... old fashioned way.

Last night I was part of a Gallery Walk in a near by city and although it was not highly attended, I had a good time and create this small painting. As most of you know, I love painting in front of a crowd and talking about what I am doing.

This painting is of the Secret Garden at the site where I was painting. The hostess said she and a friend had just eaten lunch out there earlier in the day. So glad the garden is used and enjoyed.

Ha HA ONE BUTTON!

2011-07-09T19:36:00.000-07:00

The instructions say I will be able to video tape and then post with the touch of one button.... not so easy.
I down loaded the program ( I think) but then I could not get it to publish. I watched my little sequence several times and learned what I want to do NEXT time. (Zoom in, talk, have EVERYTHING ready for the project closer at hand.)
Any one know what I mght be doing "wrong"?

Video Camera

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

My new video camera came today!
I have charged the battery and read the manual.
Tomorrow I will be setting up a drawing/watercolor demonstration and seeing if I can record and post. I plan to work on a whimsical design that I have taught some of my students. It is colorful and different every time I create it ... but it teaches many watercolor techniques so it will be a fun lesson to post.

I will be welcoming suggestions from you for future subjects you would like to see me draw or paint.
SO ...... what do you think?????

Where does the time go??????

2011-07-02T11:26:00.000-07:00

Three (3) months have passed since I posted that I was excited to be back in the swing of things and ready to post on the blog. Where did the time go???
I completed the six paintings for the Mass Ave Wine Shop, displayed them for the month of May and they all returned to the brick and mortar (no sales). We set up the new studio/classroom and I have taught several classes there ... everyone loves it. I finished the year in the classroom and I am certain that it was time well spent but not something I can do again.

SO.... WHERE DID THE TIME GO????? I know that we have been busy and I did a bit of traveling. These experiences will be talked about in future posts.

One of my next projects is to hook up a camera to work on line and show students and friends what I am creating.

Going to post this and check in with a few other blogger friends I have not talked with for a long time.
Happy Fourth of July weekend to you all!!!!

Back again and anxious to blog.

2011-03-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!!
I have been under the weather for so long .... I almost forgot what it's like to feel good.

And I have things to write about... things I want to document and record what happens.

First, I have 6 paintings to create for a show hanging in INDIANAPOLIS at Mass Ave Wine .... they will be ready to hang on the 29th of April and the Opening (Meet the artist .... oh, that's me ) is April 6th. I have four of the ideas planned ,,,, need to start the paintings SOON and hope to show what I go through to complete each one.

Second, Tom and I are designing a new, larger class room upstairs at the PEAR TREE. The last workshop I taught had 5 students in attendance and we were elbow to elbow. I showed Tom (my wonderful Hubby) and he finally understood what I was talking about. And we went right into planning mode. The next workshop will be in the new classroom and I am planning to add a variety of topics.

Of course, all this takes time as well but hopefully I will be able to post more often and welcome your ideas too.
I hope you are excited about what you are doing.... off to read some blogs!

Who would have figured ...

2011-01-29T08:46:00.000-08:00

Last week I wanted to show my watercolor class a few techniques for building layers of color and value. I decided to create a small demo of beach towels hanging on pegs. They loved it and have been painting groups of towels like crazy. I think they understand layers and values .... but I KNOW they are getting betting at drawing and painting towels.

Here are my wishes!

2011-01-13T16:05:00.000-08:00

I created these from glass jars I had for a long time. I had soaked and scrubbed the jars trying to remove the paper and finally realized "it's not coming off" and I let them sit there and dry out. Then it dawned on me ... if I can get the paper and texture off .... why not put more paper and texture on them.

Each one is different, with a wish (bead) trapped inside and texture embellishments on the outside. You could save them for the holiday tree in December or hang it somewhere in the house or studio NOW for all the good wishes to gather,

Many years ago I was told by a weaver friend that every time I tie a knot, I should tie a wish or a good thought in the knot. I have always passed this weavers tale on to my students and as I made these "wishes" I had good thoughts flowing into every one of the little gems.

Happy 2011

2011-01-09T15:43:00.000-08:00

I have been away from the blog since I returned to the class room in August. I think I have finally gotten organized and healthy enough to get back into blogging.
I was working in my studio today and created 11 "wishes".
I will post photos soon and explain the project soon.
I HOPE TO HEAR FROM MANY OF YOU AND SEE WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN UP TO.
HAPPY 2011

Day one .... done!

2010-08-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

I had a great day back at school ... in some ways it was like I had never left.

The students were great and the time flew by. I still don't have any computer to communicate with the other teachers and that frustrates me. Tomorrow is still a rules and regulations type of day but Wednesday we will start drawing ... and that is when I really connect with the students.

What ever you do with your days ... I hope you love it as much as I love teaching!

Back to School!!!!?????

2010-08-15T17:40:00.000-07:00

As of Monday August 16th, I will be back in the classroom teaching middle school art for 10 months, covering for a maternity leave, I will be back in the same classroom I left in 2006.

I am excited and looking forward to this adventure ... and a bit frightened too ... 450 kids who don't know me. I will have to win them over with my humor and charm ... well, it will be worth a try.

I am going to try to keep up with the blog, esty and facebook ... and after school hours at the brick and mortar. It will be burning the candle at both ends... so stop back in here to see what I am doing in the classroom and the studio.

Have a great week!

Helpful Pet - what is your's up to?

2010-08-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

Our cat "POGO" is only 2 years olds so she is still a kitten in many ways.

She thinks she is allowed to go anywhere she wants and is quite curious.

I was photographing a pitcher of Black Eyed Susans for an up coming class subject and she was right up there checking it all out.

I just kept clicking .... I could not have planned this!
So how and when and where has your pet been helpful????

Something to CROW about!

2010-07-29T14:50:00.000-07:00

My Wednesday Watercolor Group went very well this past week.
I presented a copy of a photograph I took at the friends house (two years ago, I think).

The photo was of the friend's collection of ROOSTERS and I found them interesting and inspirational.
The students took the idea and created different images from the same photo... that is one of my favorite things about teaching!!!!

My drawing and painting was not completed (because I was busy mentoring the students)but I will get to it soon and post it on Esty with a link for you to find it easily.
Just wanted to get this on line to share with you .... I love the variety and will post them again when the students bring their work back in to show me the final image.

Keep working on the ideas .... and never settle for ONE ... push yourself and enjoy the possibilities!!!

The LADY has left the builidng!

2010-07-29T14:39:00.000-07:00

After one small study, I painted the Victorian Lady.
I had to create her twice to complete the job to the customers liking and to meet my own standards.

It was one of the hardest commissions I have down in a LONG time because I was trying to please the client and the sign maker she was working with.

I am posting the image of the watercolor today and when the sign finally gets made and in the ground, I will post that image as well.

I think the lesson here is to push yourself and try subjects that are not in your comfort zone... and expect to "fail" and work out the problems. That is how we learn .....

Have a great evening.
teri

Tuesday ...... Top 10 items on your "to do list"?

2010-07-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

I have been busy with students and in the studio... wanted to check in for a quick post and let everyone know that I am still here ... just busy.

We are all busy...

So you are busy too? What have you been doing???
Here is my list:
1. Working on a painting for an Antique Shop (Victorian Lady) Sign.
2. Working on the collage I started as my demo in class last Friday.
3. Working on a bunch of cards that were demonstrations for students and will be for sale in the shop.
4. Trying to create an illustration for a client.
5. Creating a lesson plan and handout for my watercolor class tomorrow.
6. Cleaning the studio/class room for tomorrow. (This is the worst).
7. I have an acrylic painting started for a client I need to get back to.
8. At home I am sewing a baby quilt for a gift.
9. Wedding on Saturday.... don't know what I will wear. Should I go shopping or just wear something I have.
10. Haven't posted anything on Esty in a month.

Mmmmmm, that was cleansing .... my list could be longer .... what are the top ten items on your to do list?

Mixed Media Class

2010-07-23T15:23:00.000-07:00

Mixed media ... no rules but you still have to know the rules!

I just finished a class with three teachers on their summer break.
They have met with me every summer now for 6 years.

The mixed media project I set up for them this year resulted in three very different images. I supply all the materials, glue, ephemera, and hints to get them started on their projects. I wish we had longer but they have fun and that is their goal.

I started my own and I love the background but helping them was my main focus so I fluttered around the studio offering advice and hints as they worked through thier ideas.

The studio looks like a bomb went off .... but that will be tomrorrwo's project.
I am going to wash out the brushes and head for home.

Hope you are doing something fun!!
teri

Thursday ...... busy day!

2010-07-22T14:35:00.000-07:00

Closing down for the day
after working with several students and clients.
It has always been a busy day but
summer Thursdays are even busier than normal.
Student #1 worked with watercolor and brought a tiger lily for me to work on later.
Group class drew the tiger lily and they all did a great job.
Three after noon students . . . working on watercolor and drawing skills .... flowers, pumpkins and turkeys.
What a variety!
It keeps me on my toes.
I am heading home and I may sew or I may just put my feet up and read the morning paper.

Hope your day was full of fun stuff.
teri

Back from the lake!

2010-07-21T15:14:00.000-07:00

I was able to spent time at the lake with three ladies I started teaching with 4 decades ago ... we are still friends, even though life has taken us in different directions. We raised our children "together" and now attend graduations from college and retirement parties.

We laughed and talked about memories that we all share... and made plans for the future. The dream of traveling together to a tropical island came up .... where and when? Who knows.

Being back in the studio is where I find myself today with 5 students and little time to paint on my own work. That is the frustration that I am dealing with lately. Not enough time in the day for ME and my own work ... I think it will slow after the school begins and I can hang in there until then.

I often think about scheduling one day a week with NO LESSONS ... just my own studio time ... but that doesn't pay the rent.

Squeeze in a little time for yourself ....

Full Circle

2010-07-02T15:01:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had part of your life come full circle?
For many, it happens with the birth of a child or grandchild and the feeling that your life has completed a full circle. For Tom and I, that actual event has not happened yet .... yet.

As a teacher, an ART TEACHER .... it has happened when I find out that a former student of mine has become a teacher .... and not just any teacher but an ART TEACHER.

There are several former students that I am still in touch with (not as often as I would like). Kim, Scott, Carollee, Amy, Emily, Tara, Lorel to name a few off the top of my ol' brain.

Today, one of my student/ART TEACHER returned for a refresher course in WATERCOLOR BASICS.
We were able to catch up a bit about what she is doing while we painted. She will have been a teacher for 11 years .... goodness!
As she was talking about teaching she said there are many times she hears herself telling the students things that I told her years ago. I had to think about that for a few seconds but it sank in that this is a great compliment ...
She plans to return when she is in town again. Watercolor is not her favorite painting medium but she did fine during the lesson. I am anxious to see what she works on be between now and then.
When we said good by, she still called me by my teacher name ... some things never change.

Monkey in the Studio!!

2010-07-01T16:19:00.000-07:00

After seeing the moving TOY STORY 3, I went to my stash of toys and stuffed animals and selected my Sock Monkey to visit the studio.

My students were not as amused as I was but it was (and always will be) a good lesson.
Take something soft and cuddly, like a stuffed animal and draw it, photograph it, make a painting of it.

I hope you like the four paintings of the Sock Monkey .... not all were finished but you will get the idea.

Toy Story 3

2010-06-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

What FUN!!!!
We went to the movie theater tonight with friends and watched Toy Story 3! It was a creative pleasure! We all laughed out loud! We enjoyed every minute of it and 2 of the four of us got teary eyed at the ending.

The story line is very fitting for the life of the toys and the boy named ANDY who loved and played with the toys over the years of his life. The ending was quite believable and tugged at the heart while giving you hope for the future of the group of toys that would not leave each others' side.

This blog has nothing to do with my art but with my life... it was time well spent with friends and my hubby that was good for us all.

55!

2010-06-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my newest follower, Debs.
If you like yarn and knitting .... check her out!
She is having a giveaway!

Tulip Tree Blossum - Watercolor Workshop

2010-06-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

Today's watercolor workshop was as successful as I had hoped.

My students learned more about watercolor ... layering, lifting and patience!
They know going home and working on their own 2nd painting is the best way to retain what they have just experienced. Throughout the day there was information, conversation and bonding but at times we all noticed the silence .... brought about by the intense concentration.

I have posted my students' work. Even though they will say they are not finished, you will see the variety of individual students' work. The lesson was based on the tulip tree blossom. I provided the students with some of my own photos and references from the internet. Each person drew their own composition (no two were alike). The lesson is based on layers of transparent watercolor, starting light and ending with a full range of values.

Enjoy!
My painting is posted for sale in my Etsy shop!!! It could be yours!!!!!

Busy Week!

2010-06-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!
I had a very busy week and I am glad it is over.
I offered a five day drawing class and it was more stressful for me that I thought it would be.
The students learned but it cut into my studio time and I was not prepared to that.

This afternoon was actually my first relaxed studio session in a while and it felt so good!!!
I worked on a logo commission and prepared for tomorrow's WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP.
I am very anxious to paint my demo for the students and see what they all come up with ... I will post images and let you know how it goes.

Remember when you plan for new activities, you often have to let go of some old ones .... and that is not always a good thing.

Good Start!

2010-06-21T17:48:00.000-07:00

My first week of summer classes at the Pear Tree started today ... it was a good start and I think the students all learned a few new tricks. I will post some of the work as the week continues.

I am so lucky to be able to teach. I communicate with my students and bring out the best in the ones that are there to learn.

Check back in to see what the projects look like.

Remember to set some of your own goals and DRAW!

Still room in the #1 Week of Summer art at the Pear Tree!

2010-06-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

2010 Summer Art Classes

Pear Tree Gallery

331 E Market St Logansport IN 574 - 737 - 8374

info@peartreegallery.com

Art Instruction with resident artist and educator, Teri Partridge.

Explore Art Monday thru Friday, all supplies included!

Class space is limited, please prepay to reserve your place.

Pear Tree Summer Art Class #1 - Drawing

Cost $100. All supplies included!

9:30 - 11:00 AM, daily, June 21 through June 25, 2010.

Basic drawing skills presented and reviewed. Introduction to different drawing styles and materials. Students will complete several drawings, mats will be

provided for their best work(s).*

Sister's Palm Tree

2010-06-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

I am getting back into the swing of things
after my trip to my sister's house in FLORIDA.

I photographed several flowers and trees while I was there and have found a calming benefit from using these images for my classes this week. I focused on the Palm Tree that she has growing in her front yard.

My students and I were challenged by the subject because we don't have Palm Trees here in INDIANA. My knowledge of the growth and nature of these trees is limited to what I observed and photographed. If I truly wanted to work in depth, I would read and study about them but the lesson was simple and just the idea of the TEXTURE of the trunk and the building of watercolor layers.

I think I put away the photos of the PALM TREES for a while... need to tackle a few projects for clients.

I think we should all try ideas and images from other areas ... as you travel this summer ... be observant and step out of your comfort zone for a few days.

New Blog Toys!!!!

2010-06-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!
I have been away for a few weeks and just logged on to find new toys here on the blogger.
WOW!
I will play with a few and see what the results are ..... has anyone else changed the look of their blog???

I have been with my sister in Florida... as she finished her 16 weeks of chemo and reluctantly started her radiation treatments today. 28 treatments .... so only 27 to go.

Getting back into the studio and routine after being away for 10 days has been stressful... the old saying of taking three steps forward, two steps back kept coming into my mind. I think one more day will get me caught up and working in the present, instead of playing "catch up".

I keep asking myself ....Do I really need to go through the stack of newspapers, emails and FB entries? Part of me feels like I may have missed some tid bit of info .... but then again, I may just post and "I'm Back!" message and tell everyone if I missed something, fill me in. Yeah .... fill me in!!!!

Happy Memorial Day Weekend to everyone.

2010-05-29T10:34:00.000-07:00

I am in front of the computer, doing some work and munching on some lunch. This is a big "no no" but I am being careful (famous last words).

I will be heading out of here in a little bit to run some errands and then home to start cooking for our "pitch in" tomorrow. I am making deviled eggs (some people call them stuffed eggs) and rhubarb cobbler.
Friends will help us celebrate the holiday and then the rain is supposed to return.

I have absolutley no idea where the month of May went! As a retired school teacher, this month has always be a blur, filled with events, paper work and deadlines . ... one would think that should change now that I am out of the classroom. But, in two days it will be JUNE and I am saying ... where did May go????

Have a SAFE weekend everyone, and welcome to my newest follower, Teresa at Poppy Place!

Summer Class List

2010-05-24T10:39:00.000-07:00

Most of my blog followers are from far away places but I am listing my summer class information as a link for others w are close by with school age family that may want to take a summer art class with me at the Pear Tree Gallery.

Thank you for requesting information:

2010 Summer Art Classes

Pear Tree Gallery

331 E Market St Logansport IN 574 - 737 - 8374

info@peartreegallery.com

Art Instruction with resident artist and educator, Teri Partridge.

Explore Art Monday thru Friday, all supplies included!

Class space is limited, please prepay to reserve your place.

Pear Tree Summer Art Class #1 - Drawing

Cost $100. All supplies included!

9:30 - 11:00 AM, daily, June 21 through June 25, 2010.

Basic drawing skills presented and reviewed. Introduction to different drawing styles and materials. Students will complete several drawings, mats will be

provided for their best work(s).*

Pear Tree Summer Art Class #2 - Collage

Cost $100. All supplies included!

9:30 - 11:00 AM, daily, July 5 through July 9, 2010.

Paper and glue will be our main focus this week, exploring the different ways

to create with collage & mixed media images. An art journal will be created.*

Pear Tree Summer Art Class #3 - Crafts

Cost $100. All supplies included!

9:30 - 11:00 AM, daily, July 19 through July 23, 2010.

Hands on crafts, exploring a variety of techniques and materials.*

Pear Tree Summer Art Class #4 - Painting

Cost $100. All supplies included!

9:30 - 11:00 AM, daily, August 2 through August 6, 2010.

Students will work on color theory, painting skills, using various water based paints. *

*Although I never plan for students to get messy, the creative process tends to stain good clothes.

Dress in play clothes or bring a smock (old shirt).

Window Box

2010-05-19T15:54:00.000-07:00

This idea has been a good lesson all week long.
I may never complete these two but wanted to post them "as is" so that I don't forget to do it.
I hope that you can see the benefits of trying one subject in different art mediums ... still like my watercolor the best ... just feels right!

Have a good day ... maybe I should try it in collage ....

This may be ...

2010-05-17T14:06:00.000-07:00

the last acrylic I do for a while.

I am longing to get back to my transparent watercolor.
I like the direct painting of acrylic and it serves my purpose from time to time but I am a watercolor artist at heart and I will be returning to that set of brushes soon ... I plan to create this window image (shown here as today's last acrylic painting) in watercolor and post it later this week.

I think it does my brain good to work with other art materials from time to time .... forces me to think in other ways and not create by memory. Many times, I will paint something from memory or "like I've done it before."
Teaching usually knocks me out of that comfort zone rather quickly because I am forced in a gentle way to view things through my student's eyes. Working in a new or different art medium, or just reverting back to the basics like pencil or crayon (don't laugh) can relax your thinking and open up the clogs.

Try it ... you'll like it!

Dreary Monday ....

2010-05-17T08:03:00.000-07:00

probably now one will enter the shop but the postman and the two students that are signed up for lesson.
I am catching up on the computer work and headed to the studio.
No one guessed the exact subject of the earlier post but Paula was close.
It is a fan and tassel.

Hope everyone has a cozy Monday.
Smiles to you all,
teri

So what ....

2010-05-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

do you think this image is??????

I believe I am finished painting on it .... will post the entire image tomorrow ... just the teaser today!

Take your pick?

2010-05-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

Pick and run?
Pick Me! Pick Me!
Pick of the bunch?
What clever title should I put on this??? I am not really into clever titles.

I am so glad I went forward with this lesson ... my students thought it was a crazy lesson (although they learned from it). I am anxious for them to view this finished piece and see if any of them went on to work on their own.

I was taught decades ago by my mentor and first watercolor teacher that it is NOT the subject but the fresh way it is painted that is the goal ..... what do you think the subject was??????

Ivory Pick

2010-05-12T20:00:00.000-07:00

I created a lesson to present to my Wednesday Watercolor Group that would help them to see the subtle value shifts they could achieve from one color and the amount of water they use.
At first, they were all reluctant ( or should I say rebellious) to paint such a simple subject, an ivory pick.
But the lesson was a solid lesson, full of information to absorb and as they worked on their small paintings they began to realize the validity of what I was showing them. It was a good class session and the time was spent learning and laughing about our thoughts and our watercolors.
We decided there was never going to be a large market for ivory pick art
and this thought stayed with me as I organized the art supplies after they left the studio.
It had not been the reason for me presenting the lesson ... I wanted them to see the value, shading and colors of the subject. But now I was intrigued with the idea of using the Ivory Pick as a painting subject.
So the single Ivory Pick is the lesson but the other image is the beginning of my Acrylic painting.
As always, I will post more images as it developed into a finished piece.

It may be complete .....

2010-05-10T11:35:00.000-07:00

.... one never knows.

It is the image I want to send off to the competition....the one I see in my mind's eye ... will they like it (Love it)? That is now the next step.
It brings up the question, do I paint for me or for others.... I paint for me and hope (HOPE) that others like it too.

Some people say an artist should paint what sells ... I paint and hope it sells. Perhaps that is why I have so many images just waiting for a new wall to hang on.

I feel that painting what is true in your own heart and mind is the only way to go ....
so GO!!!!! PAINT! CREATE and learn for every mark you make.

Wish me luck!
teri

Happy Mother's Day - Fringe Stage #2!

2010-05-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you creative people, caregivers and mothers.
I have found over the years, there are many preforming tasks of love and caring that qualify us all to deserve kudos and hugs on this holiday.

This is the second day of work on the Abstract Painting I am going to submit for consideration for the FRINGE event. I would love to win but the process of thinking it through and creating AND submitting is the reward most of us work for... winning is a plus.

I hope you are all enjoying this day ... it is 53 degrees out there. I am headed home to make spaghetti and meatballs for my hubby and me .... and rhubarb cobbler .... oh my!

New Abstract started

2010-05-08T13:08:00.000-07:00

My Saturday is grey and chilly so the weather may be influencing my color choices.
BUT I like the way this is staring .... I am going to sew the rest of the day. I will return to the studio tomorrow and see how this first layer of ink and watercolor dries.
Watch for more posting of images as this project grows and develops into the poster art idea I am working on.

I hope you are staying warm and dry and feel the urge to be creative! Follow that feeling and turn something on in your brain ...

Friday plans ...

2010-05-07T08:22:00.000-07:00

I have students coming in later this afternoon so after I post this shot blog and going to work on our new LARGE FORMAT PRINTER.

We purchased this wonderful machine and need to learn how to work it so we can offer this service in our Brick and Mortar.

It is something new for this brush pusher .... wish me luck (or suggest a good mentor)!!!

Monday - Let down .....

2010-05-03T13:48:00.000-07:00

I am in a kind of funk,
a low place,
tired,
want to take a nap,
not being productive ....
you catch my drift.
After the rush of painting nonstop last week, I have nothing (ha) but a mess to clean up ... and
a list of smaller jobs that I put off to complete the MAY FLOWERS series.

I hope if any of you are in the INDY area, you will be able to get over to see the series up on the wall during the month of MAY.

Well, I feel better just writing this and getting if off my chest .... I am headed to the studio to finish cleaning up and get a little project started ....

I hope your Monday was more productive than mine .... let me know what you do to get out of your low place.

All Finished!!!

2010-05-01T09:09:00.001-07:00

Just a quick post!
The art in in the van and I am headed to INDY for the drop off!
Have a great weekend everyone!

yesterdays corrections ..... todays tasks

2010-05-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

Here are the updates for the corrections I mentioned yesterday.

I was too crunched for time to post last night.
I am ready to paint on the Hydrangeas as soon as my Hubby puts the wire on the back ... wet paint is a no no in his work area.

I have a blossom sketched in the upper right orange that I haven't painted white yet (the white is in preparation to cover the orange before I make it blue). I may cut it out of paper first to see if I like it there or not .... the orange negative ("empty") space is pleasing to my eye.

Like most of my art, it will be "finished" when some one takes it out of my hands ...

Tom just came in the back door so off to get wires and paint!

GREEN SNOWDROPS

2010-04-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

I am 99% finished with this final painting ... I am surprised it went together as easily as it did.
In posting it here, I see one petal I wish to change .... I will attempt that before I go home for the evening.

Now the HYDRANGEAS are calling to me .....

will this ever end?????/

Friday ... final stretch!

2010-04-30T12:47:00.000-07:00

Oh my, I have the last one started
but
I aggressively painted on the Hydrangeas...
making more work for myself but improving the look ...I think.
I like it and may stop on it.

The RED POPPY has it's green back and I believe I will leave it alone.

Waiting on the paint to dry a bit on the GREEN SNOWDROPS so when I apply the next layer of paint I will have minimal smearing. While I wait, I am posting this blog and working on a few little tasks.
I need to print out the tags and check all the edges for missed spots.
I have signed them all but this last one.

The rest of the afternoon will be spent on the completion of the GREEN SNOWDROPS ... It has been the hardest ... hopefully it will not show the stress I had in completing it.

I will post the final image and the entire series.
thanks for following along.

Nearing the end ....

2010-04-29T15:24:00.000-07:00

I am nearing the end of this series .... six paintings of flowers, one for each color of the color wheel with it's complementary color.

I am 95% finished with 5 of the them and 0% on the last one .... guess what I will be working on tomorrow?!?!?!?

I think I have the idea .... I will hit it hard in the morning and break for a couple of lessons with students then finish it before I go home ......could tomorrow be an all nighter??

Too dark ....

2010-04-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

I am just popping in to say Thanks for the comments and welcome to two new followers, "almost precious" and "confections in glass" - thanks for the interest!

I am working in the studio on the large flowers .... still looking at the last canvas - starring at me .... all white and empty .... what am I going to paint for a GREEN FLOWER?????? I think I have a photo to inspire me .... right now it is back to complete the RED and ORANGE pieces.

I think the background for the RED POPPY is too dark so I going to green it up a bit .....

Making progress .....

2010-04-28T16:05:00.000-07:00

I was able to almost complete the RED POPPY and the ORANGE LILY .... I think they both may need a bit more attention but need to let them dry to really SEE the colors and make the decision.

I am still trying to select the GREEN flower ... the one I thought I would use is an allium or onion so I decided against it ... my next thought was my sisiter's cactus but that doesn't feel right either.

All of the other 5 paintings in this color theory series are from my own photos ... so I will look some more and walk around the neighborhood tonight - perhaps the inspriation and resource I need is right around the corner.

If you are up for it?!

2010-04-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

Well, the VIOLET IRIS is signed and complete.
I worked in the RED POPPY and started the BLUE HYDRANGEA.

Feels good to work on my own work this week ...still need to start (HA and finish) the orange and green pieces.

I had a student post yesterday that she was frustrated with the professor's assignment and hating the structure. I fumbled with the words to inspire her but another friend and ex-student (ANDY) stated it very well ...

"If you're doing something you love but don't love what you're doing then you should change the way you're doing it. That's how I've always dealt with my creative outlets. I also never let a teacher stifle me, and I have taken grade cuts because of it, but I don't mind at all because I was pushing myself to new ends whether or not the teacher was able to see that.

By the way, the really good teachers will and do see that. Regrettably, most teachers are not that good. So, it's up to you. Everything is always up to you .... if you're up for it."

DaY #2 of flowers ....

2010-04-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

I was able to complete the YELLOW FORSYTHIA and start the second and third painting in this flower series.

I didn't mention yesterday that these images are being painted with acrylic paint on 40 x 30 inch gallery wrapped prestretched canvas.

I still have a bit of work on the VIOLET IRIS but the RED POPPY only recived the base coat so I plan to work on both tomorrow ... and .... start the fourth in the series ...... should it be blue, green or orange??

I wanted to post the images from today just to keep you all inspired!

Gotta let it dry ....

2010-04-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

This may be the hardest past .... walking away and letting it dry .... good thing there is cooking, laundry and a hungry (supportive) hubby at home.

I was not pleased with this at first ... after stepping back and looking at it .... I think it looked like I used a ruler and measured the spacing of the branches ... too evenly placed. I know better than that!!!!

But I glazed over a few of the forsythia sprigs and I think that will help the composition .... let me know what you think (honestly). Tomorrow I will add more yellow layers and small details on some of the blossoms.

Background laid in .....

2010-04-25T10:57:00.000-07:00

letting it dry a bit while I post these photos ..... the background is fun and fresh (and easy?).

Now I am headed back to do more focused application .... a slower placement of the YELLOWS for the petals and the greens for the leaves .... it should just POP off this cool, violet background!

Off to the studio!!!!!!

Take a deep breath....

2010-04-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

I am getting ready to head to the studio and begin work on a painting ... one of 6 (yes, six) I would like to complete this week. The brain work has been down and the supplies are here, after a canceled order ... going to crank up some tunes and approach the empty white canvas ....

The first is forsythia .... for my yellow flower .... check back in as I post the progress.

The Lady who can draw anything!

2010-04-22T21:20:00.000-07:00

I just got home from participating in an Elementary School's Art Festival.... what fun!

This was my 2nd year and I am known as the Lady who can draw anything!

The event is two hours long and I drew non stop for the entire two hours. The line was several deep all evening as the students and their families waited their turn to hand me a wrinkled dollar bill and shyly ask for their favorite subject to be sketched on a 12 x 18 piece of white drawing paper. I had taken a small project of my own to work on when times we slow .... but I never got a chance.

Horses, pandas, pets, castles and lots of monkeys. I talked to the on lookers about what I was doing ... starting light and using basic shapes. My drawing skills are better that average but it is the speed in which I can turn them out and the variety of subjects I can pull out of my memory that keep the crowd's attention.

Most were totally impressed and liked the drawings I autographed and handed them ... I always politely took the dollar bill first .... joking with them that if they didn't like it they may not want to pay me for it later. Most parents chuckled at my humor, but the young patrons were serious.

I have no photos to post, perhaps I will get one from the sponsoring art teacher, Brenda. She set up a great event and displayed art work from every student in the school. I had my camera with me but never had a chance to ask an adult to snap a shot.

I think next year, I may get a tee shirt that says I'm the Lady who can draw anything!

Mellow - art coop prompt!

2010-04-20T14:25:00.000-07:00

I have been busy with positive family stuff ... our daughter and son in law purchased their first "fixer upper" and we were there over the week end to help with some of the first clean up and planning. Oh, youth ...

So, I am back in the studio with students and my paint brushes today.
I finished my small watercolor to fit the prompt, MELLOW.
I am pleased with the look and emotional feel of the piece.

Now I am on to a bigger project ... six large canvas to hang in INDIANAPOLIS at the Mass Ave Wine Shop. I have most of the ideas on paper and in my head so painting them should be easy .... The project should be good for a blog entry or two!

Off to the sewing room for a project there .... so much to do ... so little time!
Keep smiling!

Forsythia FUN!

2010-04-11T09:28:00.000-07:00

Forsythia ... Fun to say and fun to paint!

These YELLOW blossums are tiny and made only of four little petals .... great to study and design with.
Put them together in a group and the landscape has a burst of yellow that certainly heralds the fact that spring is here!

I feel that way about myself ... nothing to shout about all by myslef but with the support of art friends and family .... I beam with warmth and color.

Have a great day everyone .... and remember, I am here for you and trust that you are there for me if I need an "art" ear to listen or a keen eye to view my work.

Original Watercolor - Magnolia A....

2010-04-07T13:18:00.000-07:00

My watercolor Wednesday Group painted Magnolia Blossoms today and everyone was successful ... it makes a teacher proud.

I present the lesson and demonstrate small steps, they observe and translate it into their own projects ... in other words ...we don't use patterns so that everyone's projects look slightly different. I never know what their projects will look like but the lesson sinks in a bit for each of them.

I think everyone worked well today and learned about using minimal amount of paint and maximum amount of water to create a HIGH KEY image.

Lesson for the day .... I love watercolor and all the layering that can be done .... a little bit a paint goes a long way ...

IT's the berries ....

2010-04-07T08:24:00.000-07:00

I had the daffodil lesson ready to go for my afternoon One on One Class and the student wrinkled her nose ... "I like berries (not daffodils)."

So, we went forward with a cute little painting idea of leaves and berries instead of my favorite yellow flowers.

It caught me off guard at first,
even though I tell my students the classes are their time and encourage their ideas.
Most of my students are comfortable with my ideas and give suggestions for "next time".
This was a roll with the punches lesson that turned out well (thankfully) and the student was very pleased with her painting and I (giggle) was pleased with mine as well.

I think it helped me get away from my regular subject "comfort zone". As a teacher, I invent several lessons and subject approaches every week and it was enlightening to just jump into the berries ... not a subject I have selected for myself over the years.

So the insightful lesson for the day ... don't get suck in a rut, it can happen to us all!

Try spontaneous selection for your warm ups or sketches.

I tell my students to sketch the alphabet (skipping letters if they can not think of anything and returning to those letters, later). I now think I will encourage this practice even more often.

I am off to the studio, preparing to teach my Wednesday watercolor class this afternoon, Magnolia Blossoms .... unless they want berries!

Monday .... madness .....

2010-04-05T19:24:00.000-07:00

It was slow at the brick and mortar today so I focused on a few tasks that needed to be taken care of ....

I designed a new gift certificate offering a FREE CLASS for all the requests we are getting.
We try to honor all the worthy causes but it can be overwhelming ... so I designed the card to be easily personalized for the event and group.

I made up several gift bags for the sorority's events, stuffed with note cards, bookmarks and recipe cards .... don't you wish you were winning one of these???

I worked on my art supply order but that task takes me several days to make the best selection.

I designed several ideas for the Peru "Mellow" challenge ... I plan to post the development of this series in a later blog. I finished my pencil drawing of daffodils, look for that on Esty tomorrow.

And right now... I am working in this blog and would like to welcome several new followers. Leave a comment and make suggestions about things I can ramble on about to help you with your art. I am also sitting here watching NCAA final four game ... I am not really into sports but this is the final game of college basketball .... Go BUTLER!!!!

Sweet Saturday!

2010-04-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

Woke up to clouds,
worked through the rain
and now the sun is shining
and I am headed home from the brick and mortar to sew .....
and have a bowl of strawberry short cake ....
I made the shortcake and cut up the fresh strawberries this morning before I left home.

I finished the 48 x 36 Poppies and have the logo ready enough to talk to the client about their needs.
Taking the pencil Daffodil drawing back home to work on it some more.

My hubby will be with friends to watch the final four (that's basketball, friends) and I too will be home alone with the cats and my crafts. (May even listen to the game as a play).

I hope you all have a sweet Saturday, with or without the strawberries .... make it a good one!

More than 24 hours!!!

2010-04-02T15:09:00.000-07:00

Have you ever accomplished so much in one day that your are sure there must be more that 24 hours in the day?????

Me neither ...
but today was close.

I had a student call in sick and I was sorry to hear it but this opened up the entire after noon for me to "work"!!!!!!

I was able to complete a Easter Egg bookmark that I gave away almost immediately to a friend who stopped in to say she missed us .... (serendipity).

I worked on the watercolor for the nursing home logo,
almost completed the LARGE poppy commission (it's acrylic on 48 x 36 canvas),
started a daffodil pencil drawing (taking that home to work on it with my feet up),
and
completed the daffodil watercolor, photographed it and am ready to post it on esty, tomorrow.....
Special preview here tonight for my blog buddies!

No, even with the extra time today ... I did not clean up anything (are you surprised?)!

So, I hope you receive the gift of time this weekend and use it for something special!

Thursday - warm weather and busy, busy, busy day

2010-04-01T18:01:00.000-07:00

Greetings all - we reached 85 today on the down town time and temp board.
Everything warmed up and improved everyone's outlook.

I was occupied all day with students and classes. My senior center group was fooled when I showed them I copy of the Last Supper ... we drew a cartoon instead and talked about proportions and shading.

My two ONE ON ONE students in the afternoon made great breakthroughs in understanding shading and value shifts. The lessons were basic but just what they needed to bring their work to the level.

I was able to paint a bit on two projects I am working on. The first project is a full color logo for a local nursing home and the second is a personalized birthday card that will be given to a person celebrating her 90th. Both should be dry and ready when I return to the studio and work on them tomorrow. Perhaps I will post the images.

My mother in law made us a lemon meringue pie .... I am going to serve myself a piece.
I hope your April 1st was playful, not hurtful.

Wednesday .... long day!

2010-03-31T14:59:00.000-07:00

I usually have a light Wednesday but I have had two classes today and am preparing to leave to go on location and teach a BASIC DRAWING class to a group of 14 young girls.

My watercolor group worked on Daffodils ... they are blooming and there for the inspiration!!

My after school students spent their time on bunnies and eggs - color pencils and markers were a flying!!!
Fun time!!!

The group this evening is a new group and I will hopefully pick up a few private students from the lesson.
That is my favorite way to teach - ONE ON ONE and focused on the interests of that student.

Also scheduled a student for tomorrow, this young gentleman was a student of mine way back when he was in middle school and wants to get back into his drawing ... it will be fascinating to see him regain that spark and build his skills, again!

That would be the LESSON for today, it really doesn't matter when you start or restart your drawing and art interests .... like the commercial says ... JUST DO IT!!!!!!

I am back on here to add this note ... the evening group was made up of 15 girls (4th through 6th grade). They were full of energy, manners and talent. They all tried their best and were very creative... I hope to see many of them again.

Is it only Tuesday????

2010-03-30T13:14:00.000-07:00

I could not leave the Easter Pear alone .... had to add more decoration and I am satisfied now.
I had four students today but the calendar is clear for the rest of the day so off to clean and put things away.

Happy Tuesday to you all!

teri

Easter Pear?

2010-03-29T16:52:00.000-07:00

I like Pears ..... never have been a big fan of eggs ... so I painted an Easter Pear for my new Esty Avatar and banner.

I did not get cleaning done today but I did embelish two items brought into the Brick and Mortar, taught two students and mentored another. It was a good day and I wanted to share the banner painting. As often happens, I thought it was complete about 7 times.

I hope you all accomplished some small thing today and look forward to reading your comments.

Saying goodbye to March ....

2010-03-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

and HELLO TO APRIL!!!!!

March always seems to be a busy month for me.
I have taught many classes, workshops and out reach programs,
put up with strange weather and
enjoyed our annual vacation that takes us away from our brick and mortar.
The month seems to zip by, bringing us to my favorite month .... April!

The days are longer and getting warmer and the sun .... you gotta love the sun!
And flowers are beginning to bloom ... bringing inspiration with every petal.
Our vacation was relaxing and I thought through many ideas for future projects and lessons,
worked on several project ideas and prototyoes for items I hope to complete soon and
post here and on ETSY.

My goal is to get busy cleaning and organizing my studio/class room/ sewing room.
Of course, I make this declaration every spring.

But, I plan to clean and create with renewed energy!

I hope all of you feel the energy of Spring and say good bye to March and welcome April!!

Abstract Collage Class

2010-03-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hello followers .... I have been very busy with family, the brick and mortar and classes .... the students at Saturday's Collage Class had a great time and although they still may work on their pieces at home... I thought they were worth posting here.

Mine is not complete yet .... I am actually working on about three of them at once ..... SO MUCH FUN!!!

Back again!

2010-02-22T09:36:00.000-08:00

Hello followers ... I had to take time away from the computer to be with my older sister.
I know you all understand that family comes first!

She and my brother in law live in the Orlando area and love the climate there (even though it was "cold" during my stay). They have a wall mural that I add to when I visit ...it started out with just a tree when they moved in many years ago... I started by adding an owl and making the tree more attractive. This time I added a manatee - my style and skill have improved over the years so it is a rather unique piece of original art.

It is good to be back home with my hubby, partner and our kitties. It feels good to be back in my studio.

I hope you are all staying creatively busy and feeling the love that runs through the blogs and esty shops we all host and follow. Have a great day.
teri

Complete!

2010-02-04T15:05:00.000-08:00

The Faux Rag is complete ... at least my part. The home owner will now seal it with several coats of poly and it will be fabulous. If I do this for any future clients, this homeowner has agreed to partner with me and do the prep and finish ... how wonderful is that!!!????

I will post a final photo after they have it sealed, polished and the antique table and chairs are in place.

Hope you have enjoyed this glimpse of the hours that went into this project.

Fourth Day

2010-01-31T14:11:00.000-08:00

I was able to get another afternoon of painting done today and both the client and I are happy with the way the project is going. When I return for the next painting session, I will be bringing the small brushes for details which tells me I am getting close to completion.

Third Day

2010-01-30T09:49:00.000-08:00

I added the small and large swags, basic coats or paint, no details yet.

Second day.

2010-01-28T17:49:00.000-08:00

I spent time today redesigning the fruit swag for the FAUX RUG project. I did not want to enlarge anything because I am still going to use the original stencil for the small end of the rug. I drew the clusters of fruit and added more fruit, not bigger fruit. I made sure the pear in both small and new clusters was the same size so it will all tie together.

I color tested some of my paints to combine with the clients colors. I think I am ready to go at it again. After lunch tomorrow I will get down on my knees and get busy working the paint brush. It's not the getting down that bothers me ... it's the getting back up again.

I will have to paint on all four clusters simultaneously to insure my colors are the consistant ... it would be nice to use a roller board to scoot around the floor from area to area ... but I doubt the clients would like the resulting scuff marks.

Check back in tomorrow (or the next day) when I will post photos of the next stage of the project.
I am excited to get the colors flowing.

I am excited about my new project!

2010-01-26T19:10:00.000-08:00

This evening I started painting a new project on location and I will be posting images as I work.

The project???? I am painting a faux rug on the client's dinning room floor.

Last week, I drew images and cut stencils based on the client's wallpaper... not so much for application of paint but for repetition and spacing. Tonight, I used a watersoluble pencil to indicate where my images of ribbons would be with the help of my stencils.

Using colors of paint that coordinate with the wallpaper, I completed the ribbons on the four corners. I am sure I will add areas of darker value to the ribbons later but we were all pleased with the look so far.

We discussed the size of the secondary design ... my original stencil for this part of the design is not big enough for the size of the rug so I must design another and cut it before returning to the site tomorrow.

Gray Monday!

2010-01-25T15:21:00.000-08:00

It has been a gray Monday here at the Brick and Mortar.

My studio window overlooks the main west to east street through our little town and it has been a swirling snow flurry all day. Many times it looked like a flurry of small bits of paper the flakes were so big and white.

Needless to say, if I can report on the various sizes of snow flakes flying by my window ... I didn't get too much "work" done today. I am hoping to get more accomplished after I lock the door and can focus on a small abstract I want to work on or the logo I have to ink. Both projects have been whispering to me all day. I will give them a little attention before heading home and sewing more on the black and white art quite that beckons.

I think the lesson today would be to look at small amounts of time as a gift, a plus. Look at these small amounts of time devoted to a project as time well spent, not as a failure to complete the masterpiece you wish you had time to complete. Small clusters of minutes will soon add up to the finished project.

Think of it this way ... a little bit of creativity each day (writing, painting, sketching, thinking, sewing, knitting, you get the idea) is better than NOT creating.

Sunday Summary

2010-01-24T19:51:00.000-08:00

Good evening ... I hope everyone is finishing a safe and creative weekend.

Football for most TV viewers.

I did have the games on but have been sewing most of the day.

I am creating a black and white art quilt and have been working on this idea in the sewing room. Using the sewing machine up until now ... I am ready to do some hand sewing. I like hand sewing, I find it rewarding to see the stitches slip into place as I work around the surface.

It is very strict to work with only various fabrics of white and blacks ... I really don't have that many in my stash. Whatever medium you like to create with ... fabric, pencil or paintbrush ... challenge yourself to work out of your comfort zone every so often.

This art quilt may or may not end up being one of my favorites, but I am learning from the process ... and that is the real success for me and many who create.

The Fog Has Lifted and I am BACK!!!!!!

2010-01-22T12:58:00.000-08:00

Hello followers and bloggers!!!!! I have been neglecting my blog!!!!!!!!

I have been drifting in an after holiday FOG but am feeling better and getting back to normal ... whatever "normal" is. This is my first blog posting of 2010!!!

I have been reading many of your posts but expended no energy to reply or throw in my 2 cent worth. I am sorry to have missed out on so much ... I am charging my self up and hopefully will be posting every day again.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This challenge/contest from CoolMomPicks helped me get out of the depths and pick up pencil and pen for a good cause ... No computer generated images here ... just my little sketches refined and inked for the contest. I don't know if I will win but it is a deadline and entry that gets me going!!!

Let it Snow!!!!

2009-12-20T11:20:00.000-08:00

How wonderful!!
On the day that I taught a watercolor class about Snowflakes (and Negative Painting) most of the eastern United States woke up to snow - for better or worse! Some love it, some feel less affection towards the white stuff .... but as artists, it is a challenge!

We drew and cut snowflakes and with the use of watercolor pencils and paint, we created a small watercolor for a magnet and a greeting card. We talked about the process and brainstormed about using the cut outs, not only as our original stencils but also as collage elements.

Like the snowflakes themselves, no two being alike ... our ideas were individual and plentiful.

Enjoy or tolerate ... spring always follows the winter cold.

Great stuff ...

2009-12-20T07:38:00.000-08:00

All my followers have great stuff in their shops/websites, so I encourage all of you to click away and meet each other.

I would like to welcome my newest follower, Honeysuckle Designs. She has delightful layouts worth looking at ... thanks for making me one place where our paths cross.

Taking the time to check out other artist/crafters should be part of our busy routines... we all put so much into our work, we need to look and learn from each other ... I am not talking about stealing ideas, but learning about good design, craftsmanship and use of the materials.

We should strive to go through life with our eyes wide open, keeping an open mind and an open heart! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays ... 5 days left!

Welcome two new followers!

2009-12-18T19:34:00.000-08:00

Good evening~~ Welcome to my two newest friends and followers!
Annette creates great aprons and is having a give away!
And NaLa who creates wonderful jewelry and promotes promotes promotes!

I had a busy week, finishing up all the HAVE TO paintings for the holidays last night. Now things may slow down a bit ... I have to start cooking (which means eating)!

Everyone take care out there.
Merry Christmas
teri

Relief!!!!

2009-12-17T20:22:00.000-08:00

I am feeling a sense of relief tonight as I finished and signed the last painting that was a commission I HAD to complete for the Holidays. Relief!!!!

I like the way my watercolor turned out ... it was done with the help of the client who sent me wonderful photos to look at and get the information I needed to personalize this painting. I prefer to work from my own photos but this cottage is in another state ... so I had to rely on the photos.

Commissions are a challenge for me and for most artists ... trying to understand what the client wants and still be true to owns self. Don't shy away from taking on commission work ... be true to your own style ... that is what attracted the client to you in the first place. The client will most likely be pleased with the work if you are in control of what you want to do with the idea.

If you are pleased, they will be pleased too!

And .... I would like to welcome the Lanyardlady to my followers! It is heartwarmimg to know that someone is reading what I ramble on about!

Holiday Wreath!!

2009-12-14T16:15:00.001-08:00

I finally found an afternoon to create my own wreath.

I am reminded of the story about the cobbler's children who went barefoot, their father too busy creating shoes for other children.

I willingly spend my time creating for others, and our own front porch wall was empty, lacking a festive wreath ... until this weekend when I found some time to create a new one using items I have had tucked away for a couple of years.

I am very pleased with the way it turned out although I do wish I had a white light cord instead of the green one I upcycled from my stash. It will not be seen from the road.

I took my photos this morning as I left the house and must say I am inspired by the third ... it may be the start of an abstract ... but for now, it is just my front porch wreath, finally!

December .....

2009-12-07T10:04:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone .... I have been on the run since Thanksgiving .... painting and crafting and enjoying the spirit of the Holidays. Last week I spent every evening with a room full of crafters for ornament classes. We laughed and created some very cute ornaments.

My demonstrations may end up in my esty shop.

Hopefully posting on the blog and reading others will work it's way back into my routine.

Take care everyone,
teri

Great Day ....

2009-12-02T16:31:00.000-08:00

It was a great day with all my students!

I love to share by teaching.

On the Road ....

2009-12-02T07:01:00.000-08:00

I am headed out of the studio for most of the day today to teach a beginning watercolor class at the local Art Association.

I enjoy introducing people to the wonders of watercolor ... usually people like it because it is fresh and splashy and then will not allow themselves to splash and splatter ... my goal is to get them to loosen up.

I will post photos later.

I am waving my magic wand and granting you all the wish to do whatever creative thing you wish you could do ... easily ... HAVE FUN!!!!!

Treasury ...

2009-11-28T11:32:00.000-08:00

just a heads up that one of my leaf paintings is included in this Treasury until Monday the 30th.

It is one of the examples of the class I am teaching on the 2nd!

Let me know if you are interested in the painting or the class.

It is Saturday here at the Brick and Mortar ... we haven't been too busy but I can't seem to get anything accomplished ... ever have one of those days???

HA! The floor is shaking ... I think is all of you rolling on the floor,laughing ... I am going to turn up the tunes and try to get something going! Wishing you are productive day ... some one better be!