Diana Frey

Love Is

2012-02-06T12:32:00.000-08:00

Love is....the enchanted dawn of every heart. ~ Lamartine

Love is ....a trembling happiness. ~Kahlil Gibran

Love is....the exchange of two fantasies and the contact of two skins. ~Nicholas Chamfort

Love is....to the moral nature exactly what the sun is to the earth. ~Balzac

Love is....the master key that opens the gates of happiness.

~Oliver Wendell Holmes

Love is....a second life; it grows into the soul, warms every vein, and beats in every pulse. ~Joseph Addison

Love is....the beauty of the soul. ~St. Augustine

Love is....light from heaven; A spark of that immortal fire. ~Lord Byron

Love is....the Mother of Art, inspirer of poet, patriot, and philosopher. ~unknown

This past week I have been playing with etchant, brass, bling and FIRE. I love using my butane torch to solder elements together and creating interesting textures on whimsical shaped brass.

Now it is off to preparing for Riki Schumacher and my Charming Romance class coming up in a few short weeks. Riki and I had so much fun shopping for the kits for this class. Part of the joy for us is making our students feel ever so special and treating them to sweet surprises. We do have a few spots left in the class....so if you would like to join us, just check out the class flyer under "Classes" above for details. It is a class packed full of techniques: fine silver clay, etching, and cold connections.

As I prepare for Valentine's Day, I am filled with so many loving memories of my hubby of 32 years. What a blessing he is to my life. His enduring love, constant support in whatever I do, kindness, care taking in the not-so-good times, strength and purity of heart are constant reminders why I fell in love with him. My heart is full!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Life

2012-01-11T15:34:00.000-08:00

Just stopping by to tell you that I am thinking of you this fine, beautiful day. Busy with class proposals, class samples and tutorials for 2012. So, I haven't had much time to spend here on my blog. But know you are being thought of and are very appreciated.

Hugs

Diana

HEARTBOXES

2012-01-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

A little birdie told me that a few of you were interested in purchasing one of my heart boxes. FYI....I just listed two of them in my Etsy store. These pieces will be featured in Belle Armoire Jewelry magazine some time this year and a "how-to" tutorial will be available soon. Hope you likey.

Happy New Year!

Holiday Greetings!

2011-12-23T10:55:00.000-08:00

Just stopping by to wish you all a wonderful Christmas holiday!! I hope that during this season of HOPE you experience the LOVE of your family and friends, the WONDER of what life can bring each and every day, GRATITUDE for your countless blessings, and PEACE in your heart !

I so appreciate all of you who have dropped by during this past year, left kind words, have attended my classes, purchased my jewelry and supported me on my creative journey. Thank you!!

For those of you still working on your "Wish List" for Santa..... there are still spots left in Riki and my "Charming Romance" class in February. We would love to have you join us as we explore the magic of fine silver clay, etching, cold connections and wire wrapping. See the class flyer in my "Class" section.

Well.....I must be off to work on my "To Do" list for today. I am excitedly getting prepared for my boys to arrive tomorrow evening...can't wait. We will be celebrating Christmas on Monday with all of our children and grandchildren. So, I have baking to do and meal preparation, gifts to wrap, house to clean....where are those Christmas elves when I need them.

LOVE YOU!!!

Meet Marpessa

2011-12-03T15:06:00.000-08:00

I would like you all to meet my little spokesmodel, Marpessa, (created by the talented Rebecca McMeen). Marpessa will be assisting me in announcing and promoting my up and coming events in 2012. Whenever she makes her appearance on my blog in her flamboyant finery, you will know to expect a new class (either in person or on line), new tutorial, or new kits. I am excited about the new ventures on the horizon...stay tuned.

*******************

The holidays are here, days filled with to do's, expected arrivals of family and friends, cards to be addressed and sealed with a kiss, and those gifts lovingly created for all of those special people in our lives. As you ponder the perfect gift for the giving keep in mind:

Not all gifts have to be obtained by the giving of coin --

"On the first day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of my Undivided Attention

On the second day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Enthusiasm

On the third day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Creative Energy

On the fourth day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Simple Seasonal Pleasures

On the fifth day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The Gift of Tenderness

On the sixth day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Good Cheer

On the seventh day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Beauty

On the eighth day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Communication

On the ninth day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Surprise

On the tenth day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Wonder

On the eleventh day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Peaceful Surroundings

On the twelfth day of Christmas, I gave to my true loves:

The gift of Joy

Be ready at all times to give those you love the simply abundant gifts of Spirit. If you do, they'll give you Christmas gifts you'll never forget: happy smiles and contented hearts. And you won't want to exchange them." ~Simple Abundance

Know that I may not be making my appearance too often during the holidays as many different projects are keeping me busy in my studio and I am spending time with family and friends.

May you be blessed during this season of HOPE and may it fill your hearts all year through.

GRATEFUL THANKS

2011-11-21T12:46:00.000-08:00

"AN OPEN HOME, AN OPEN HEART, HERE GROWS A BOUNTIFUL HARVEST." ~JUDY HAND

Soon loved ones will gather at the table to rejoice in our bounty of blessings, and with us lift up their hearts in thanksgiving. This is a good thing. I have so much to be thankful for, so much to smile about.....and you, my friends, are counted among my many blessings. Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Thanksgiving week.....and may you be filled with a grateful heart and embrace this holiday season with joy.

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND

2011-10-28T09:39:00.000-07:00

Wanted you to be the first to know that Riki Schumacher and I have been asked to teach our A Charming Romance class once again. The dates are set for February 18 & 19, 2012. We are taking reservations now. Please see the flyer below for details. Reservations can be made by contacting me via email. I write this as I dash out to set up for our Bezelicious class this weekend.....so excuse my briefness. Wishing you all a spooktacular weekend! I have my costume picked out.....do you. Happy Halloween!!!

PLAY DATE

2011-10-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my friend, Jeri's, art studio. Jeri's studio is utterly amazing...she has been collecting art supplies and tools for years....and has just about everything a mixed media artist could ever want complete with two pure white guardian kitties. I had the pleasure of being invited to join this awesome group of women from the Orange County Art League for a play date. One of their members, Carolyn Waitt, chose the project for the day and sent everyone supply lists. Our project was going to be creating art dolls from old tins.....well I didn't have to think hard about whether I was going to go or not with my new found love of making art dolls. I chose a small sterling silver tea pot for my doll.

Everyone worked at their own pace, shared whatever they brought with one another and shared techniques and helped out in brainstorming. The culminated talent in this group was amazing. And speaking of talent, meet Cindy, above. Cindy is a fabulous mixed media artist and loves working with fabric. She started out with a tin box, took off the lid and created a dimensional doll. The crows wings and heart are all hand stitched and beaded. I love the contrast between tin and fabric. Love it Cindy!

This is Carolyn, the person responsible for this great project. She really came prepared and with lots of ideas as she worked on four different dolls at once. Love her use of those old metal curlers for arms on one of her dolls and the handles of antique silver spoons for another. Tiny light bulbs, electrical components, bottle caps and faucet handles all found a place on one of Carolyn's dolls. Just proves the point of don't throw anything away...and be creative in repurposing.

Linda's little retro doll is complete with a hand sewn felt purse. Her crown is a plastic shampoo bottle top treated with a rusting solution.....so clever Linda.

Now Debbie had a different take on her doll. She formed her doll's nest out of Spanish Moss hanging from the trees right outside the studio door. I would like to see what her little talcum powder tin doll turns out to be like. Beautiful smile Debbie!

Kim started with a Harlequin doll which she took all apart and hand painted her face in kind of a day-of-the-dead fashion. Her doll's body is an old cigar box. Love what she did with the legs.

I didn't get pictures of everyone...so sorry to those of you who are not included here.

This sweetie was created by Barbara. The accordion pleated paper collar amazed me...loved it!

This is my little girl, Cosette, sitting next to my latest purchase from Julie Haymaker Thompson. They just seem to go together don't you think? Her little legs were my first attempt at using paper clay and some of the painting techniques I learned from JoAnnA Pierotti at Art Is You last month. Another new product I incorporated into Cosette in attaching her head to the tea pot was Apoxy Clay.....great stuff....thank you Michael DeMeng for introducing me to this.

The Orange County Art League gals get together once a month to make art, kindle friendships, share, support and grow. Do you have an art group you are a member of? Or perhaps you have wanted to get a group together but haven't yet. Now's the time...don't wait. Getting together with like-minded friends is so very nurturing and rewarding.

ART IS YOU!

2011-10-02T21:36:00.000-07:00

A perfect get-away with friends....that is what my week at Art Is You certainly was. The venue, The Sheraton, in the charming town of Petaluma, in northern California was the perfect, relaxing setting for the first Art Is You here on the West Coast. Sallianne and Ellen are to be commended for orchestrating such an enriching event. I spent five glorious days with my girlie friends taking classes which took me in new directions....right out of my comfort zone.

Meet my friends (L to R): Connie Freedman, Riki Schumacher, Me, and Susan Hunt

Day 1 and 2 were spent with JoAnna Pierotti learning some of her techniques in creating her amazing dolls.

Riki Schumacher; Denise Peterson; Renee Troy; JoAnnA Pierotti; Debby Anderson; and Susan.

The photos above are from JoAnna's "Adorn Me Necklace" class. The doll on the left is mine, JoAnna's jewels are featured front and center and my dear friend, Susan's, creation is on the right. Painting faces was a challenge for me and creating the porcelain-like flowers was an amazing technique to learn. Who would have ever guessed that you first start with paper flowers.

And this is my Olde Soul doll. I had a lot of fun learning JoAnna's techniques for painting beautiful roses and of course, designing my doll's dress was something I so enjoyed....the lover of fashion that I am.

I chose to feature my Adorn Me piece on an antique cabinet card which was lovingly sewn onto the kits for the class by JoAnna. She now hangs in my studio next to one of her sisters.....yes, I couldn't help myself and did adopt another JoAnna doll....isn't she wonderful? My friend, Susan, named her Lady Guinevere....she certainly looks like a Renaissance maiden.

Then it was playing with plaster with one of my favorite artists, Stephanie Lee. Look at her treasure boxes above. To think that these beauties begin with simple scraps of cardboard and the application of plaster wrap. I haven't finished my box yet but promise to share when it is completed.

And I had the pleasure of spending part of another day with Stephanie in her Pipe Dreams class. These were the two pieces I completed in the morning. They will soon be adorned with some of my favorite stones, gems and wired things so I may wear them as a reminder of such a special day. I must admit that I did cut out of class a bit early so I could catch a bit of the Petaluma antique faire taking place that very day.....treasures were to be discovered after all!

And look who I shared lunch with one fine day. Yep the Ever Gorgeous Earl (EGE) with his vivacious wife of 34 years, Rice Freeman-Zachery; her friend Tiffany and who is that strange man lurking behind them......yep, Michael DeMeng himself. What a character he is.

The final day of classes was spent with that strange man himself....only to discover he is not strange at all ....just so very extremely talented....did I say TALENTED!.. Michael's Pretty Vial Things class was a class I took to challenge myself to get out of my comfort zone...outside of the box.....or should I say outside the bottle. While Michael's art can appear a bit dark to me, I knew that I could take the new found techniques in class and create a piece that would reflect me...afterall isn't that what art is all about....self-expression.

So in the collage above you will see my bottle....the Byzantine object in the back with, OMG, the arms!!! Who would have ever guessed that a collection of antique lamp hardware, antique broken doll parts, rusted mesh, rusted lamp wire, rusted door knob, paint, Kwik Dap, apoxy clay and of course, bling could transform this old medicine bottle into something that time forgot. And it is complete with the perfect Michael DeMeng touch....a few drops of my own blood locked inside....not by design....but done quite serendipitously so. I broke the neck of my bottle when working on the top and my old fingers got in the way. But that made for the further discovery of the many uses of apoxy clay....as it put the pieces back together so nicely. And when you are looking at the neck of my bottle, just above the rhinestones....see the fabric tied around it? Well, that was made with strips of a baby wipe I had used all day to wipe my hands and brush on. I was just about to throw it away and knew immediately it had to have a place on my bottle with all of it's beautiful colors and contrasting texture next to the bling-a-ling.

And let me share with you a few bottles from the class...namely my great friend, Riki's. Fabulous!...eyeball and all. The final hour of Michael's class was Michael critiqueing everyone's creation. And I must say that that was one of my favorite parts of the day. Michael has a way of picking out all of the positive elements of each and everyone's pieces. It was such an excellent learning experience. Thank you Michael!

From L to R: Denise Peterson's (make lemonade out of lemons) bottle; Susan Hunt and Debby Anderson.

Denise's bottle broke while trying to cut a hole into the bottle and look what became of it .....a shrine of remains.

Well, that's my recap of Art It You. The contract has been signed with The Sheraton in Petaluma, Ca to hold Art Is You 2012 the same time next year. If I were you, I would mark your calendars and start saving your pennies so that you, too, can experience five days of amazing creative frenzy.

OOh La La

2011-09-08T15:43:00.000-07:00

OOH LA LA --- Take 1 and 2

Two weekends in a row I had the pleasure of teaching 16 lovely ladies the basics of working with fine silver clay.

At the request of a Southern California art group, I opened up an additional weekend of teaching Oh La La so they could plan a fun art weekend together. What an amazing, talented group! Julie and Cindy are missing from the photo above, but their presence was not. There was so much positive, crazy energy going on all weekend.

Oh, Julie....there you are.

Look at Carolyn's fabulous pieces....I don't think this was your first time working with fine silver clay Carolyn!

The second weekend started off with my sweet friend, Charlene, from Texas and mutual friend, Sandy, arriving in town a few days early. That gave us plenty of time to visit over a leisurely lunch and dinner beforehand. Oh how I am blessed with good friends.

Here is the OOH LA LA class Take 2...another amazing group of women!

Charlene's great pieces!

Susan's loot....I think she has a plan going here...don't you?

Now that my classes are completed until the end of October when my friend, Riki, and I will be team teaching "Bezelicious"...... my time and attention is focused on creating a fall collection of jewelry for the stores I design for. Here are the colors I have selected for fall....amber and eggplant. Aren't they yummy!!! Recently picked up the beauties above at the Gem Faire in Santa Barbara. Love Citrine, Amethyst, Spider Agate, and Ametrine.

By the way there are a few spaces left in "Bezelicious" if you would like to come and learn all about creating bezels. Just contact me and we will reserve you a spot. And while you are thinking about classes, take a few minutes to visit Riki's E-Workshops Blog and see what that girl has up her sleeve.

Hope you all had a wonderful Labor Day weekend...always great to have a long weekend off. For me "Labor" Day means something quite different other than the original definition of this holiday. For me 39 years ago I was actually "in labor" wtih my dear son, Jeremy.....certainly another reason to have a holiday celebration!!

Incredible

2011-08-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

I returned from Phoenix a few short days ago after teaching two classes at Art Unraveled. Everything about my experience was incredible!! Linda and Chuck Young who organize the event single handedly are fantastic. Every detail was taken care of and seemed to run smoothly. Smiling faces were seen everywhere. I had the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful people, making new friends, meeting blog peeps in person, and my students were amazing!

Here are two very special people...Tiffany and Pat......both volunteered to help me set up my Briar Rose class. Thank you ladies....you were incredible.....and look at your sweet Sleeping Beauties....love them!

More examples of my student's creations. So enjoyed meeting Betti Z....what a charmer from New York. And look at Mary's beautiful smile! ....I told you smiles were everywhere.

Wednesday evening I met up with my good friend Diane Cook and her hubby Allen as we ventured out of the hotel for a dining experience in nearby Scottsdale at The Mission restaurant. Many others joined us....seen above with Diane is Pam Carriker.

The restaurant was full so we were offered seating out on the patio (at 112 degrees mind you!!!!). I, at first, was hesitant but the patio was very pleasant and they situated our table right in front of the largest fan I have ever seen. It kept us all quite comfortable. Here we all are...look at Allen sitting at the head of the table with a big grin on his face as he is surrounded by women. Starting on the front left and going back we have Serena Barton, Pam Carriker, Diane Cook, Allen, Renee Troy (back right), JoAnnA Pierotti, and Pat Soenke. The food was amazing Latin cuisine and certainly lived up to the raves I had heard from others back at the hotel. About half way through our meal, the weather gods entertained us with a light show as streaks of lightening filled the darkened sky and the jubilant possibility of cooling rain. The skies finally opened up and large cooling droplets fell on us just as we were waiting for our dessert to arrive. Oh well, I didn't need those calories anyway. A very fun evening indeed!

My Twisted Sistah class was also full of wonderful souls. I was so very proud of them and their creations. Such a fun group of ladies.

I BIG "Thank You" to all of my students who made my experience at Art Unraveled incredible. You are all such an inspiration to me!!

Every evening there was a reception at the hotel and I met up with a lot of friends....both new and old.

If you haven't had the opportunity to attend an art retreat, I encourage you do so.....an experience that will surely enrichen your creative soul.

Art Unraveled

2011-07-31T18:36:00.000-07:00

Just a short note to send you greetings from Phoenix. Here I sit in my room at Embassy Suites where Art Unraveled festivities will begin tomorrow with everyone coming from near and far. How exciting to be here and preparing for my classes "Briar Rose" and "Twisted Sistah". I so look forward to seeing friends and meeting new ones and sharing my love of mixed media jewelry art. If you will be here, be sure to say hello and introduce yourself...I would truly enjoy meeting some of my blog friends in person.

Sorry no photos this time as I am not quite sure how to do it on my iPad. I will make up for it after I get back.

Be good to yourselves and take time to just play.

About Time

2011-07-26T12:01:00.000-07:00

Well, after not posting for about six weeks, I should say that it is about time that I catch you up on the happenings here in my part of the world. Where to begin.....

My husband I have had the plans in the works for several months now to have work done on our home this summer. To begin with, we had new windows put in....love the dual pane windows....so quite. Next we had to have our house tented and fumigated to get rid of the critters that have been feasting on our abode for many years. That was a major job ....removing all of our food, plants, medicines, etc.....not to mention ourselves. We had to move out for four days and decided to make a little vacation out of it. So we became tourists in our own town....well the nearby town of Baywood Park. We took our kitty, Sade, stayed in a quaint B & B and enjoyed the beautiful central coast.

For four days we ate great food, relaxed, walked, took time to appreciate the wonders of nature, went to farmer's market and sipped local wines.

I had fun exploring my new camera.

Upon our return home...we missed out on the entire tent experience....the ordeal of moving back in took place. I must admit that after having toxins pumped into our home, I was a bit paranoid about eating off the dishes, and silverware I left behind....even though the exterminator told us it was okay to do so. So I cleaned and cleaned, reorganized and put everything back. Whew....don't want to do that again any time soon. Those critters better stay away for a while.

The next step in our plans immediately began. We had the outside of our home painted. So every morning for about a week, the painting crew ascended upon our house at 7 a.m. and worked throughout the day. We love how it turned out....taupe, white trim with black accents.

We have had sweet family get-togethers, ice cream feasts (as you can see grandpa with our grand daughters here), nieces and great nieces visiting, birthday celebrations and goodbyes.

I've been busy in my studio with class preparations, teaching and designing.

Dreaming up future collections.

And getting excited about teaching at Art Unraveled in a week. Just shipped off supplies, tools and kits to Phoenix. I so look forward to meeting all of you who plan on attending AU and especially those of you who have signed up for my Briar Rose and Twisted Sistah classes. Can't wait for our play date. Wishing you all a safe journey!

Until then

With One Finding

2011-06-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

WITH ONE FINDING

A JEWELRY COLLABORATION BETWEEN LIKE MINDS

I had the pleasure of being invited by my dear friend, Diane Cook to participate in her "With One Finding" design challenge along with five other designers. We were all asked to use the "Marianne" brass filigree finding from the Brass Bouquet in a piece of jewelry. And look at the inspiring results of the following artists in the current Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine now on the shelves.

Molly Alexander

Cindy Wimmer

Julie Pishny

(this would be yours truly)

Maire Dodd

In the photo you will note that Riki Schumacher's name appears as the designer of this piece, however, this is Maire's creation.

Diane Cook (left) and Riki Schumacher (right)

Isn't it amazing how each person's creation is truly a reflection of their individual, artistic style. Every one is unique. This was certainly a growing experience for us all. As a result of this challenge, I learned to look more closely at the versatility of just a single element and the infinite possibilities of its use in my designs.

Thank you, Diane, for including me in this challenge.....such fun!

And thank you to Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine for featuring this collaboration. As usual the photos are amazing.

Robin

2011-06-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

Hello all...hoping you have been enjoying your week and are getting ready for a relaxing weekend. I just had to share with you one of my days this past week. My friend, Robin Kaplan, who is the clothing designer I have the pleasure of working with on occasion, invited me and a few others to her lovely home for a private viewing of some of her gorgeous clothes.

Robin garment dyes each and every piece herself. This day, Robin's color was "pearl"....and I just had to try and capture the loveliness of these pieces hanging on the weathered fence near the dyeing tubs. Each piece took the dye differently depending on the fabric.....silks, of course.

Other pieces hung on a nearby clothing rack waiting their turn.

(Robin)

We were treated to yummy snacks while we tried on anything our hearts desired.

(Colleen)

Oh, how much fun it was.....like playing dressup in a queen's closet.

(Kathee and Melinda)

What started out to be a very organized table ladden with Robin's collections, a few hours later turned into a mass of wonderful colors and fabrics.....we just had too much fun dressing each other up.

A sea of threads displayed in one of Robin's design rooms.....I loved the colors.

Melinda and Robin brain-storming on a new design.

This is one of Melinda's amazing wedding gown designs created with recycled fabrics. Perfect for that romantic seaside exchanging of vows.

My closet plays host to four more pieces of Robin's beautiful clothing....thank you Robin. What a fun day it was!

***********

While visiting with Robin, she and her friends expressed an interest in learning basic wire wrapping and fundamentals of jewelry design. As a result, I have put together such a class which will be held in Robin's very charming home on the central coast of California. And through Robin's graciousness, I am able to open up the class to those of you who would like to join us.

The class will be a two-day workshop, July 16 & 17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For all of the details, please download the flyer below. Reservations can be made by contacting me via email. Just click on the "contact" button above.

Friends Bearing Gifts

2011-05-29T18:23:00.000-07:00

My last two weeks have been filled to the brim with family gatherings, greeting friends (both near and from afar), and spending time in the virtual classroom.

I am known as "Nana" to my four grand-children and last weekend I stayed with my two grand-daughters (ages 8 and 5) while my daughter and grand-son flew to New Jersey to attend my eldest grand-son's graduation ceremony.....graduation from Coast Guard boot camp. He survived which we were all grateful for. My grand-daughters and I had so much fun while mommy was away making cupcakes for a welcome home party for their big brother. I was coronated "Best Nana" as a result...Oh, the magic of cupcakes. When my grand-son appeared at the door in his dress blues, this Nana's heart about burst with pride. I found myself jumping up and down with excitment before I realized what I was doing. There's something about a man in a uniform isn't there girls?? His visit home after graduation was brief and he is now stationed in San Juan, Puerto Rico for the next few years protecting our borders.

A few days after our family celebration, a sweet friend of mine and her husband arrived on the central coast for an overdue reunion.

A lot of you know this familiar face....yep that's my friend, Diane Cook, or "Tex" as Riki Schumacher and I endearingly call her. We so enjoyed our reunion as it had been a long 1 1/2 years since we last saw eachother at Adorn Me! in Texas.

Diane came bearing gifts. She knows what I love....look at those lucious baroque green pearls, OMG, and the hand-dyed silk ribbon, and the rhinestone brooch, and the Parisian token, and the resin-filled charm, and, and, and. Love them all....thank you, again, Diane!

(Susan, Stephani, Diane and me)

The visit with Diane and her wonderful husband, Allen, went way too fast. But we did find time to eat a lot of great food, sample a lot of good wines, shop, share in a lot of laughter, story telling and artful ideas.

I just had to introduce Diane to my art group buddies. Here we are above in my studio. Diane was so kind to give us a private "show and tell" of her beautiful jewelry and a preview of new class projects that are on the horizon. You are all in store for some wonderful new Diane Cook creations.

This weekend I have finally taken the time to go over the on-line "Skinny Mini" Photoshop class hosted by Kim Klassen. I am learning slowly but surely. Photoshop is simply amazing. Check out Kim's classes she offers...she is quite generous with her knowledge and comes from a very creative place in her instruction. One of my first projects was the "friends" photo at the top of this blog using various layers and textures to create it with. As a result of getting so inspired with the artistic capabilities of Photoshop, I went out yesterday and purchased a new camera (a gal just has to have the newest Nikon camera, right??) I am so spoiled. I decided on a Nikon Coolpix P500 digital camera. So, I have a lot of learning to do.....oh but what fun.....stay tuned.

Bezelicious

2011-05-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

Okay girlie friends....so many of you have been asking about what class Riki Schumacher and I will be teaching in the fall. Ta DA....here it is. We have developed a class focused on the creation of bezels. In this two-day workshop you will learn that materials for making bezels are all around you....in the kitchen, in your tool box, on the ground, in found objects and at the hardware store. You will use pre-made bezels along with creating bezels using a little torch, solder and brass. Making the bezels themselves is just the beginning, turning them into a jewelry component will be the icing on the cake. Basic resin techniques will be taught along with a bevy of ideas in creating texture, layering, color and interest in your resin creations. On the second day, Riki and I will share with you our design process incorporating basic design principles and elements giving you the tools to start composing your works of art.

Won't you join us here on the Central Coast of California as we play in Riki's studio in Shell Beach. Space is limited. Reservations can be made by contacting me by email.....which is just an easy click away here on my blog using the "Contact" button above.

All the details about the workshop can be found on the flyer...just enlarge it and print it out. There you have it.

Welcome

2011-05-16T13:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my new blog!!! I am so excited to invite you into my new blog home created for me by Karen Valentine....blog designer extraordinaire. What a joy it was to work with Karen. After our initial talk, she just took off and I loved the first designs she created. If any of you are thinking of starting your own blog or would like a facelift like I did and looking for some expert help.....Karen is your gal. I also purchased her "Building Beautiful Blogs" book and look forward to learning more about the capabilities of Blogger. What do you think??? Do you like my new look?

Also, wanted to share with you what I have been up to the last few weeks. I am always wanting to learn more wire-wrapping techniques and picked up this publication by Denise Peck, "Wire Style 2". It is full of fabulous photos, projects and step-by-step designs by Lorelei Eurto, Cindy Wimmer, Kerry Bogert, Denise Peck, Jane Dickerson, Donna Spadafore, Jodi Bombardier, Lisa Niven Kelly, and Connie Fox. I picked up my copy at Michael's.

Art Unraveled is just around the corner and I have started to gather supplies for my students' kits. These little orphans just flew in from Germany today. I will have to sand down the shoulder plates with my glass grinder to get them ready for my Briar Rose class. The other tiny Charlottes will be incorporated into jewelry and other projects.

(Encapsulated Beauty)

Orders have been filled for the various boutiques that carry my jewelry. This sweet little piece is available at Charlotte's in Salt Lake City along with several other creations of mine.

(Butterfly Dreams Necklace)

Riki Schumacher and I have also been putting our thinking caps on developing our fall class which will be offered in Riki's home here on the Central Coast of California....most likely the end of October. Details will be up within the next few weeks. Can you guess what the class will be by the teaser photo below? Keep checking back for the full scoop.

Thank you for dropping by for a chat....I so appreciate you all. Leave a comment and let me know what you think about my new blog. Remember, Karen Valentine might just be the perfect person to help you with your blog. For those of you who have wanted to start a blog and just haven't been brave enough to take the first steps....Karen makes it painless and has the resources available to educate you on all the in's and out's.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T11:34:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a "Happy Mother's Day". As mothers (and grand-mothers) we have boxes of treasured memories from our children growing up. In my case, I also have treasures from my grand children. My grand daughter, Elizabeth, drew this picture for me a few weeks ago and it has become one of my favorite treasures. I am astonished by her artistic abilities at the tender age of 5.

We all have our stories that touch our hearts the most about our children......the first steps, first words, accomplishments, defeats, sweet kisses and hugs, the salty tears, the scratched knees, the oh-so-many joys that are sewn to our hearts and the unconditional love we never thought possible to feel toward another human being before our children blessed us with their arrival.

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A few weeks ago, I shared with you the story of Erin, the daughter of a very dear friend. I wanted to express my sincere appreciation to those of you who purchased items from my Etsy store so that I could, inturn, make a donation to help Erin in her fight with liver cancer. My friend wrote the following note in response to the donation....I wanted to share it with you.

"Thank you!! Every little bit does help! But even more than the dollar amount is the priceless gift of your generous and loving spirit which found a unique avenue of expression. Your donation, given from your heart, provides the emotional support that continues to help Erin stay strong as she fights to regain her health! Erin will win this battle!! And many people will be blessed by her paying forward all the love that she received during her own health crises."

Thank you to all of you who have visited Erin's website and left messages, said prayers or made donations. As of last week, Erin's tumor has shrunk 41.8%. Her doctors are amazed.

****************

In addition to celebrating Mother's Day with our children and honoring our own mothers, today can be a time to reflect on how we are "mothering" ourselves. We as mothers, are usually the ones who provide comfort to our children, elderly parents, our friends and partners. But how often do we take care of our own need to be comforted. "Though we are grown, we never outgrow the need for someone special to hold us close, stroke our hair, tuck us into bed and reassure us that tomorrow all will be well. Perhaps we need to reacquaint ourselves consciously with the maternal and deeply comforting dimension of the Divinity in order to learn how to mother ourselves." ~Simple Abundance

Enjoy this beautiful day, embrace your children, kiss your mothers and celebrate your own feminine divineness!

Artfest 2011

2011-04-26T18:55:00.000-07:00

A touch of spring greeted my sister, Susan, and I as we arrived in Seattle at my son, Jeremy's, house a few weeks ago. I just loved these trees so heavily laden with fragrant pink blossoms. They were a welcomed sight amidst the dreary, cloudy skies that seemed to be ever present during our visit to the Pacific Northwest. A few years ago, my sister and I agreed to not exchange material gifts anymore on birthdays or Christmas....yet instead plan a special playdate and give eachother the most precious gift of all...that of eachother's time and sweet presence. We don't get to see each other often so spending quality time together doing things we both love is very special indeed. So, began our journey to our first Artfest in Port Townsend, Washington.

My son lives in Seattle so we visited with him for a few days touring some of the hot spots of Seattle and eating scrumptious meals. Enjoyed going to the Fremont Street Fair on Sunday and shopping at University Village shopping center.

Then on Tuesday, we picked up our rental car and hopped the ferry over to Bainbridge Island in preparation for our drive to Port Townsend.

Great views on the crossing.

Later that day, we arrived at our little cottage on Discovery Bay.....very charming with great views.

Port Townsend and immediate surrounding area was everything I had imagined...beautiful countryside, quaint downtown area with great little boutiques and fabulous restaurants. Queen Anne, Victorian-styled homes stand majestically in the uptown area, Fort Worden was very picturesque overlooking the expanse of water and nearby islands.

The first day of Artfest, I had so much fun in Clarissa Callesen's, "Doll Transformed" class. This was an amazing class. I learned so much from Clarissa. Here is how my doll began....a porcelain headed, cloth body, thrift store doll.

With a touch of gesso, acrylic paint and fire (yes we used torches) my thrift store purchase became my "Bird Brained" creation.

My doll wears a real bird's nest on her head with hand-glued twigs covering her skull. Her attire was created with antique lace, fabric, feathers, shredded paper, of course, a touch of bling and wears a chatelaine around her waist. I used a rusty, wire, antique birdcage for her skirt.

Painting the face was my biggest challenge.

This cutey was created by my table mate, Kelly. I just LOVE her. Great job Kelly!!!!

My next class was with Shelly Massey - "License to Create". We made a box out of old license plates...isn't that an ingenious idea.

Shelley showed us how to create figures out of foil and plaster strip....new to me for sure. I was inspired by one of Anahata's Papaya creations and did something really different than the rest of class. But that is what art is all about...making it an extension of your own voice. I painted and glazed a porcelain doll head (I think I am obsessed with doll parts....as my sister would say) and that became my box topper.

I used Shelley's plaster strip technique and made strands of hot pink and glittered hair. After attaching fabric flowers and foliage to her head, she almost took on a Carmen Miranda appearance.

Of course she needed to have splashes of bling a ling. Antique glass drawer pulls were used for feet. A fun class!

The third day, I took my first polymer clay class from well-known Laurie Mika. Definitely a fun medium with lots of potential.

My sister and I had such a great time and Artfest was everything people have been telling me over the years. Teesha and Tracy Moore certainly do it up right.

Tootles

Diana

Erin's Story

2011-04-16T16:39:00.000-07:00

"Please meet Erin, a truly amazing young woman who has dedicated her life to helping others in need. " .....so reads the beginning of Erin's Story. Erin is the sweet 32-year-old daughter of a life-long friend of mine.

Let me take a moment to introduce you to Erin's beautiful family:

Julian - age 8 months

Lyla - 3 years old

Love of Erin's life - husband Greg

Erin and her family live in Portland, Oregon. Last year, my life-long friend, Peg, and her husband were compelled to sell their home here on the central coast of California and move to Portland to be near Erin and her family and their other daughter who also lives in the Portland area. Two new grand-children have arrived since Peg made the sojourn to Portland and she felt assured of the importance of her re-location to be closer to her children.

Two months ago, that certainty was confirmed even more strongly when Erin was diagnosed with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma - liver cancer. The tumor in Erin's liver is inoperable and requires agressive treatment of both radiation and chemo. Unfortuantely, Erin and her family do not have medical insurance to cover her astronomical medical bills. A single dose of a needed injection of Neulasta, which takes 10 seconds to inject, costs $5,780.....that is absolutely mind-bogling to me!! I am blessed with excellent health insurance and haven't realized the extreme hardship a devastating illness like cancer can have on a family.

A church friend of Erin's has developed a web page for Erin. Read Erin's story here. Erin's site includes her story, photos, blog, message board and most importantly a way to help her. Anonymous donations can be made here to assist Erin and her family with the growing hospital and treatment bills.

Financial donations are not the only support Erin needs right now. Prayers and supportive comments are heart felt and give Erin the courage and strength to just get through her day.

I have decided that my way of helping right now is by sharing Erin's story with you, hoping to move your heart to reach out to a stranger in some way. Compassion for another is magic. Perhaps you are a cancer survivor yourself and can share with her your success, your struggles, your insights. Whatever you feel moved to do will be most appreciated.

I am also listing new items in my Etsy store today. The proceeds of sales will be donated to Erin. I am going to leave these items in my shop for only two weeks.

************************************************

I realize that it has been several weeks since I have posted....forgive me....I neglected to let you know that I was out of town for almost 2 weeks on vacation in the Pacific Northwest visiting my son, going to Artfest and spending time with my beloved sister. I'll post all about it next week. I really felt compelled to share Erin's story first.

Tootles

Diana

Show and Tell

2011-03-17T21:26:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I didn't have to sing "Rain, Rain, Go Away" again as I have been singing for the last 3 months. The Alameda Antique Fair in the San Francisco bay area, which takes place the first Sunday of every month, has been rained out for 3 months. What's a girl going to do when you just HAVE to go antiquing. Well, when I received word that it was being rescheduled to last weekend, my bags were packed even before I finished reading the announcement.

One of my favorite finds....the bronze shoes above.....simply love them! There are two different shoes. Did the parents who had this made have two children??? or are they shoes from one child at different ages??? I'll never know but the charm of these sweet antique shoes, preserved for me to enjoy and speculate upon will hold a special place in my studio.

Even with the reduced number of vendors in attendance, I was able to find some pieces that will hopefully find their way into my designs......bits of lace, watch cases, watches, compasses, hardware, buttons, doll heads, and more.

Just had to buy these antique baby dresses to use in my doll creations.

I just had to share with you my latest addition to my JoAnna Pierotti doll collection. JoAnna painted this sweet face on fabric and adorned her with lushous bits of antique, tea dyed fabric. She is now my favorite. I am so looking forward to taking two classes from JoAnna at Art-Is-You in Petaluma, California this September. Have you discovered Art -Is-You yet??? If not, hop on over to the site and check out the great line up of classes. There is also an Art-Is-You on the east coast.

Have you ever been so touched by a stranger's thoughtfulness that it brought tears to your eyes? Well this handmade IPad case was made by the loving hands of Niki Weippert. Niki contacted me and when she saw that I replied to her inquiry via my IPad she offered to design a case for me from antique quilt fabric she purchased in France. She included some of my favorite things...lace, Madonna, and rhinestones. The Madonna pocket is perfect for holding my earphones. Thank you Niki, I so appreciate your gift!!

On my design bench now...my Charlotte is sleeping as the resin I used to attach her to the antique carving cures. She will soon find her place dangling from an antique brass chain and hopefully around someone's neck who will love her.

Tootles

Diana

Chair Cushions

2011-03-11T12:04:00.000-08:00

Who would have ever thought that finding these chair cushions at Ross for my studio would cause a redecorating frenzi for the following week. Those things happen to me often, how about you? I change one thing and see all of the other things that can be changed....I have a vision.....and just have to bring it into reality. I wanted to "freshen up" my studio and just took off. First, I visited our local lighting expert in search of an antique chandelier and found one immediately. Within 24 hours Jack had the chandelier rewired and ready to go. Within another 24 hours, my hubby had it hung for me. Next, Chloe, my 1800's manequin, had been pleading with me for a long time to dress her in something fantastic instead of standing nude for years. I obliged and with a little gathering here and there, tearing strips of tulle and ribbon, Chloe now is dressed in her finery.

The curtains hanging on my storage shelves were next.

Wall decor was next. I have a collection of wonderful antique cabinet cards that just stay hidden in drawers and I decided that it was about time they were showcased and enjoyed somehow.....so this is what I did. I took an ornate gold frame I had stored for years and repurposed it as follows:

-sanded the frame to remove some of the gold paint

-distressed the wood with a hammer and filled in nicks with paint

-tore pages from antique French book and with matte medium, attached the pieces to the velvet section of the frame. Layers upon layers....let dry.

-after it was dry, I used a combination of bronze, teal and brown paints to accomplish a worn, patina effect on the paper. Using a baby wipe, my fingers and a brush, I rubbed paint on and rubbed the excess off. This took a while to layer the paints but I love the aged look it soon took on.

Next, how do I display my cabinet cards in a way that I could change them out when I wanted. This is what I did:

-purchased burlap and heavy gauge plastic fabric.

- using the cards as a guide, I sewed the plastic onto the burlap to form pockets. I sewed the plastic onto the burlap in two strips so that the pockets were open above each photo.

-when I put it all together, I noticed that the sharpie sewing guidelines I put on the plastic did not get concealed with the stitches....oh boy...creative opportunity! So that's when I added the bling with the deco dress clips...oh yes!

I attached the finished burplap piece to a piece of foamcore I had and attached it to the back of the frame with ducktape.

A ribbon for hanging was attached to the top of the frame with hooks.

I was pleased with the results.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, with the studio redecorating completed, I was off onto another project....getting ready for Artfest. One of the classes I am taking is Shelley Massey's "License to Create". I so love Anahata's images and decided to model my box after one of my favorites.

You know me and my fasination with antique doll heads...so what a perfect opportunity to feature one on top of my box. For the head, I started with purchasing a discarded porcelain doll from the Goodwill. After removing the head from the body and striping the hair off (sounds rather barbaric doesn't it?), I painted the head and glazed it. I have never done this before and it took me literally hours to paint her. I'm pleased with it for my first attempt. Paperclay will be used to create her hair, and you can see the flowers that await to be arranged on her head. It will be fun to put it all together. I will share the finished project with you upon my return.

Well, that catches you up some what as to what I have been up to.

Hoping you are all well and honoring that creative spirit of yours.

Tootles

Diana

Mary Hetts

2011-02-21T13:37:00.000-08:00

Girlfriend time is so very important!

I was so blessed this last weekend to have spent it with two of my favorite people - Stephani Gorman and Riki Schumacher. We took a trip down south and spent two days with Mary Hettsmansperger learning to weave with wire, enamel, anneal sheet metal, and a variety of cold connections. Mary is amazing and I just love how she has taken her passion for weaving with fibers and transferred it to weaving with metals.

Here is the piece I worked on the first day of class. Look at those wonderful colors achieved with a propane torch. Simply amazing! I chose to showcase a vintage rhinestone that I have been hanging on to just waiting for that perfect project. I enjoyed creating a different type of "reveal" in metal. If you will remember, I created a reveal in silver clay in a previous post when taking a class from Jonna Faulkner.

On the second day, Mary demonstrated a variety of weaving techniques. Again I chose a vintage crystal to adorn, this time with vintage bronze wire and seed beads. Now I have to find the perfect chain to display this pendant on.

If you haven't discovered Mary Hettsmansperger's artwork yet......do! She has three books out. I have her Wrap, Stitch, Fold and Rivet book featuring so many wonderful projects.

Have a great week. I'm off now to spend time in my studio preparing for a class I will be team teaching with my friend, Riki, this week.....Queen For A Day. If any of you are interested in joining us, we do have a few spots left. We would love to have you.

Ta Ta

Diana

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

"Love, that thing we have great difficulty even describing, is the only truly real and lasting experience of life. It is the opposite of fear, the essence of relationships, the core of creativity, the grace of power, an intricate part of who we are. It is the source of happiness, the energy that connects us and that lives within us.

Love has nothing to do with knowledge, education, or power; it is beyond behavior. It is also the only gift in life that is not lost. Ultimately, it is the only thing we can really give. In a world of illusions, a world of dreams and emptiness, love is the source of truth."

~ Elizabeth Kubler-Ross~

Wishing all of my blogging sisters a happy Valentine's Day! Treat yourselves to something special on me!

Hugs

Diana

Works in Progress

2011-01-25T20:33:00.000-08:00

Wow what a great weekend. I had the pleasure of taking yet another fine silver clay class from Jonna Faulkner with my close friend Riki .We worked on hollow-form beads and bezel beads.....so fun. Here are my "works in progress":

This is an elongated primitive heart, hollow-form bead with a reveal soon to be showcasing half-drilled pearls. I still have to antique this piece which will really bring out all of the details of the appliques and bling and, hopefully, look less like a blob of clay. Those three posts you see will soon be adorned with half-drilled pearls, accentuated with flecks of gold. I'll share my completed piece.

These are my three bezel beads in the greenware state waiting for the quality control team to take care of a few details before firing. I will then string all three pieces onto a necklace.

Other than taking this class, the last week or so has been filled with good times with friends, enjoying this gorgeous spring weather we are having (my heart goes out to you who are enduring the inches and inches of snow.....stay warm my friends), long walks by the Pacific, filling orders, and preparing for classes this year. Oh yes, and all of the other day-to-day things that are part of all our lives...taking out the garbage, cleaning my studio, doing laundry, working out, paying bills, going to appointments, washing the car, yadda, yadda, yadda.

Speaking of classes....have you heard of the new West Coast mixed media art retreat Art Is You in Petaluma, California???? If you haven't, dance on over to their site and check out the fantastic line up of classes and instructors. I am treating myself to the entire week and seem to be focusing this year on the art of doll design. Yes, I'm stepping outside of my "jewelry" box and venturing out. Perhaps I will have the pleasure of meeting some of you blog friends there.

Wishing you all a great week.

Take care

Diana

Shifts

2011-01-17T16:02:00.000-08:00

To Shift .... so many definitions of this short, 5-letter word. For this post, I am looking at the "to change position, direction, place, or form." Shifts are taking place in our lives every single day, visible shifts, or those that are more subtle. Looking at the history of fashion is a typical example how many influences (whether it be culture, economic, seasonal, technological) factor into play the current trends in clothing design as above.

Movie star sense of drama and fashion cross over into what we see in our stores....like these Lady Gaga shoes...aren't they outrageous!

Eyewear is always changing.

And, of course, hair and makeup fashions are getting edgier and edgier....I happen to love it.

But what do changes or "shifts" in the fashion world have to do with mixed media art you ask??? Last week I was visiting my friend, Deryn Mentock's, blog post of January 8 "The Creative Path Forward" and loved her message (and that of Rebecca Sower). Each expressing the importance of looking back to where we've been, where we have come from, and acknowledging the changes and shifts that have taken place in our lives, and how they have shaped our lives.......shaped who we are today as a human being and for the purposes of this post, in our artwork.

I, too, like Deryn and Rebecca have created a mosaic typifying my artwork over the last few years. This was such an eye-opening exercise and allowed me to see what has influenced my artwork, the shifts I have made, and the different directions I have taken. Enriching my education through classes and retreats have definitely added to my design direction. The people I design for have an influence over my work to a certain extent, incorporating their interests with my style......always staying true to my ideals and creative self. My found object, gem and mixed media treasure collection has an impact on my designs.....my inspiration. Most importantly what I see when looking at this time capsule mosaic is the growth I have made during the last 4 years. Growth in self-confidence, growth in allowing myself freedom to express.....or not to express....if I need a nourishing hiatus, I take one, without feeling I "have" to produce. During those down times, the shifts of creation going on inside our being (both conscious and unconscious) in the deep recesses of our souls is what will manifest itself in our future artwork.

With the beginning of each new year, we tend to look back over our shoulder at the paths we have chosen and at the same time, look forward to where we are or want to be going. This year, I want to become a sponge and soak up new experiences both in my personal life and artwork. To be fully present to life, moment to moment. I look with anticipation as I venture into new territory in mixed media art. Perhaps some would consider these "goals", and not shifts. But there is a point when pursuing new goals, through self-discovery, we make those shifts that have an everlasting effect in our lives.

When contemplating the shifts I would like to manifest in my life, I try to consider the following five elements gleaned from one of Oprah's broadcasts:

1. Do I have a realistic vision for myself?

2. Believe in my heart that I can achieve my vision.

3. Know that I am deserving.

4. Acknowledge barriers that may be keeping me from achieving my vision.

5. Put myself first..and ask for support when needed.

So here I go, with one baby step at a time, making the Shifts for 2011.....can't wait.

Tootles

Diana

Summer Classes

2011-01-09T12:34:00.000-08:00

It's the beginning of a brand new year and I'm looking at my teaching schedule. In my last post, I shared with you the classes I will be teaching at Art Unraveled the beginning of August. In this post, I would like to personally invite you to join me in my studio for two classes during the summer months. Classes in my home studio are quaint (8 students) and packed full of learning new skills, creating new treasures, meeting new friends, lots of laughs and good times.

(studio)

The first class I will be offering will be Tres Chic Woven Bracelet, June 4 & 5. The medieval art of Viking Knit, basic wire wrapping and metal smithing techniques will be shared during these two fun days.
TRES CHIC CLASS CANCELED

Click on the flyer above to get all of the details.

The second class is Oh La La Fine Silver Clay and is for those of you wanting to learn fine silver clay basics. This class will be held August 20 & 21 AND August 27 & 28...you have a choice of weekends.

You will work with Art Clay Silver and create wonderful components to add to your jewelry creations. Students will work with molds, learn to incorporate posts, set stones, create appliques and make free-form bezels.

Hoping you will choose to spend some of your summer days playing with me in my studio. Reservations can be made by emailing me at: belladonna1351@charter.net.

Tootles

Diana

1-1-11

2011-01-01T14:16:00.000-08:00

What a great holiday I had! How about you? My hubby and I, all our children, their significant others and grand children gathered to celebrate in grand fashion. We always take a family portrait and here is a version of this year's group. We would all like to wish you a very happy new year filled with good health and joy.

Today I was sitting at my desk recording dates in my 2011 calendar and my this is going to be a fun, inspiring year indeed. My sister and I will be attending our first Artfest in April in Port Townsend Wa. I am signed up for an assortment of jewelry design classes here in California and look forward to learning new techniques.

I will also have the pleasure of teaching at Art Unraveled August 2 and 4 in Phoenix. I will be teaching the following two classes:

Briar Rose Shrine Pendant

Using assemblage and dimensional soldering techniques, your Briar Rose will take on a fairy-tale essence as she is encased in glass and solder. Let the fashionista in you shine as you design your Briar Rose's couture gown complete with sweet pewter shoes. The theme, color and content is left up to your imagination. Students will learn basic soldering, assemblage, collage and metal stamping.

Twisted Sistah Choker

Using heavy gauge wire, students will learn sculptural, free-form wire working techniques to create the foundation of this choker. With a little forging and patina, this wire structure will be ready for your selected embellishments. Working with fine gauge wire and using techniques similar to weaving and sewing, various beads, stones, crystals, found objects, shells, buttons will be whimsically attached creating the encrusted allure of this piece.

Art Unraveled is a fabulous mixed media art retreat with an outstanding line-up of classes. I encourage you to check out the offerings and consider joining us the first week of August. Registration is done by mail and the first class assignments will be made January 10th. To be sure you are able to get into your first-choice classes, now is the time to send in your registration form. I'm sending my registration in on Monday with crossed fingers and toes. All the information is on the site.

Hoping you are all having a relaxing New Year's Day. Looking forward to the coming year and getting to know all of you better. Thank you for stopping by.

Tootles

Diana

And The Winners Are

2010-12-19T14:45:00.000-08:00

Well, this has been quite a day. I have been so excited about my giveaway for the last several days and have made a special effort to be sure to include everyone's name into the drawing. I placed each folded paper into my favorite antique suitcase and hid it in a safe place. This morning I went to retrieve the suitcase and it had disappeared from it's hiding place....poof it was gone and no where to be found.

I was so distraught that I consulted my friend Mr. Rabbit hoping he could perform his magic and make the suitcase appear.

Mr. Rabbit suggested I ask all of his forest friends if they had seen the suitcase. He eagerly coached me from behind, interpreting each report, lead and whisper. I listened intently, trying to glean any clues to the whereabouts of my suitcase with all of your names in it.

I was becoming desperate as I followed every clue, endlessly with no success. I was losing my head with anxiety.

Little did I know that Mr. Rabbit was messing with me and playing a joke on me as he smugly guarded the suitcase's hiding place....chuckling softly.

Finally Mr. Rabbit had to leave his post to feast upon his afternoon tea and sweets. Just then another rabbit in the forest looking for the suitcase came upon this suspicious looking hole and investigated.

And lo and behold he found and recovered my beloved suitcase. I was so excited and relieved. Now I could draw the three lucky winning names for my Christmas Giveaway.

I quickly set about my task and randomly selected the three winning names. As Mr. Rabbit was dining on his cookies and tea, a forest creature came running in and told him I had recovered the suitcase and would soon be announcing the winners. By this time, Mr. Rabbit started to feel guilty about playing such a mean joke on his friend (that would be me) and offered to make the announcement of the winners himself.

Mr. Sparrow quickly flew the winning names to Mr. Rabbit.

Mr. Rabbit stood on stage ready to make the announcement. He cleared his throat, put his horn up to his whiskered lips and shouted:

The winners of Diana's Christmas Giveaway are:

Lana Manis

Halle Gustafson

Sandy Navarro

Congratulations!!!!!!

I would appreciate it if each of the winners could contact me and give me their mailing addresses. (email: belladonna1351@charter.net)

The response to this giveaway was phenomenal. Thank you to all of you who left comments and took the time to sign up to be a follower of my blog.

Wishing you all a very, merry Christmas season and fabulous New Year!

Hugs

Diana

(artwork by Maggie Taylor)

Holiday Giveaway

2010-12-07T21:18:00.000-08:00

A holiday giveaway for you my blogging friends.

As I mentioned to you in my last post (just a few hours ago), I have been working on going through my studio and pulling things that I just haven't been using. I don't know if any of you are like me, but when I get inspired or jazzed about something or take a class and learn something new, I have to purchase everything I need for that new project. And sometimes, just sometimes, all those supplies get forgotten as I am quickly off onto another idea, another project. So over the past five years, I have accumulated all kinds of scrapbooking, cardmaking, book making and other paper and fabric art supplies.

I've decided to give those supplies and goodies away to three lucky winners. Each winner will receive a box approximately 12"x7"x6" filled to the brim with as many items that I can get into it. I am hoping that each box will hold a bit of inspiration for each of you.

To qualify for the giveaway:

1. Become a follower of my blog

2. Leave a comment to this post.

The lucky winners will be randomly selected on Sunday, December 19th.

Good luck everyone.

Thank you so very much for visiting my blog. You are so appreciated. I treasure your friendship, kind words throughout the year and support.

Happy Holidays to you and your family!

Hugs

Diana

Inspiration

2010-12-07T19:09:00.000-08:00

Where Do You Find Inspiration?

Whether it be in a particular color palatte; an antique photograph; a found object; the way the warm autumn light plays its magic; the formation of a beautiful succulent; learning something new; being challenged by a friend; a holiday; a visit to farmer's market or antique faire; a good read; or a walk in nature -- we are surrounded by inspirational moments everyday if we allow ourselves to be open to it.

During the last few weeks, I have gradually cleaned out my studio. Going through every drawer, every container and every nook and cranny, I discovered I have a plethora of supplies that I am not currently using. As a result, I decided to share some of my goodies with you and created what I am calling my "Inspiration Kits". Each kit contains a selection of fabric, antique cabinet card wrapped with trims and ribbon, a tea-dyed shipping tag full of vintage/antique buttons; and French ephemera. Each kit features a different color and is wrapped in a clear bag sealed with ephemera, torn silk fabric, vintage velvet leaves and a tea-dyed gift tag. Perfect for the holidays! Take a look in my Etsy store to see if any of them appeals to your sense of inspiration.

Learning Something New

Inspiration can come as we learn new techniques and surround ourselves with other creative spirits. There is still room in "Queen For A Day" and registration is still open. I will be team teaching this weekend class again with my dear friend, Riki Schumacher February 26 and 27 here on the beautiful central coast of California.

Students will learn to etch; cut, shape and form sheet metal; cold joining; basic soldering with a micro torch and basic wire wrapping. You will make your very own shadow box to showcase a found object of your choosing.

You can't be "Queen for a Day" without your crown or a box to keep your treasures. A lot of you have seen these amazing embellished boxes that Riki has featured on her blog. She is actually going to share how she created this fabulous crown. Yes, you will be fabricating this crown structure yourself and enhancing it with jewels. A lot of the supplies for this workshop will be supplied so the student supply list will be minimal. Just show up and let us pamper you. See the flyer under "Teaching" in my right hand sidebar. Space is limited. You may contact me via email: belladonna1351@charter.net.

Being Challenged

Sometimes we are prodded by friends to take on a creative challenge. My dear friend, Diane Cook has done just that. She has not only challenged me but all of you as well. Check out the information regarding this challenge HERE on the Brass Bouquet blog. Okay I know I am a little late in sharing this with you as Diane asked for entries to be sent to her by Nov. 30....however, you can still take the challenge yourself.

No matter where you find your inspiration, not only in your artwork but your personal life as well, keep in mind that you, yourself, are the greatest piece of art work you will ever create.

"I like to think of myself as an artist, and my life is my greatest work of art. Every moment is a moment of creation, and each moment of creation contains infinite possibilities. I can do things the way I've always done them, or I can look at all the different alternatives, and try something new and different and potentially rewarding. Every moment presents a new opportunity and a new decision. What a wonderful game we are all playing, and what a magnificent art form...." ~Shakti Gawain~

Tootles

Diana

Time Gone By

2010-11-26T21:54:00.000-08:00

Have you ever come across a photograph that just tugs at your heartstrings, overwhelming you with tenderness....well that's what antique cabinet cards of adorable children do for me. These angelic creatures of a time gone by, even though long gone, still speak to me.

Look at these sweet faces, their beautiful expressive eyes and their crisp, white hand-made dresses and shirts. You know their parents are standing behind the camera man so proud, so full of love in their hearts.

My collection has grown over the years and has remained hidden in a special antique box that was given to me by a dear friend who has since passed away. Periodically I take the photos out looking at each face and wondering what their story is, where did they live, what experiences did they have in their life time so long ago, were they happy.

Well I thought that it was way past time that each one was honored in some way in my jewelry art. So was born the idea of my "Sweet Nothings" collection. I have spoken about this collection in a past post, however, I did want to mention it again as I have decided to part with my creations and have listed several in my Etsy store.

By scanning in each photo into my computer, I was able to manipulate the size of the image to fit into my selected bezel. Taking acrylic paints and a very tiny paint brush, I painted colorful details onto each photo...touches of flowers and garlands here and there. After sealing each piece, I poured my resin and dropped in delicate silver micro beads. Oh, and I wish I could take credit for the beautiful hand-written words in each, however, they are rub-on letters. Then each bezel was hung on a delicate chain of pearls, crystals and silver.

I would like to think of a way to display and enjoy my cabinet card collection. Do any of you have any suggestions on how I could do that?

Hoping you are all enjoying your Thanksgiving holiday. My get together with family was wonderful. Leftovers were yummy today and tomorrow I must get out for a walk to burn up the calories from the two pieces of pumpkin pie I had...oh, but it was so good!

Tootles

Diana

Bounty

2010-11-23T08:58:00.000-08:00

Today I go grocery shopping for our Thanksgiving meal. All the usual things - green bean casserole, dressing, pumpkin pie, whip cream....and yet to me Thanksgiving is not about the abundance of food but the abundance of love, family, friends, and grateful hearts.

I realize that during this time of difficult economic times life can be challenging at best for some and "abundance" in your life can seem an intangible concept. When we change our focus from wide angle to macro...we can, with an open heart, see some flicker of hope, in the warm smile and hug of a loved one, the beauty to behold in nature's bounty, and the simple blessing each breath brings.

I wish you all an open heart, a full heart, as you embrace and rejoice in your bounty of blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving my friends!

Diana

SIMPLE PLEASURES

2010-11-13T14:13:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke and lingered in bed enjoying the peacefulness, enjoying day dreaming and enjoying the beginning of yet another day in this life of mine. I realized how much I do love my bedroom, my sanctuary, my retreat and the role it plays in my life. Every detail was ceremoniously thought over when I created this personal domain of mine.

I painted the walls tonalities of tranquil taupe; hunted for the perfect mattress; selected high-thread count cotton sheets, a down comforter, silk bed cover and burlap bed skirt. I made pillow cases from my grandmother's linen napkins and embellished them with my favorite antique brooches; re-upholstered chairs with silk found at an antique faire; lay an antique, tattered length of lace across the foot of the bed; and hung window treatments I purchased in Provence. My favorite music can be played with a touch of a remote, my favorite books lay waiting on my nightstand next to my alabaster antique lamp. Luxurious hand and foot creams, essential oils and scented candles fill the air with soothing scents. Treasured artwork adorn the walls, only but a few as to not clutter. My choices are of sweet angels and cherubs some of which I selected when with my sweet mum. And photos of loved ones sit on shelves keeping my soul company. No phone, no T.V. This is where I begin my day, this is where I end my day. This is where I pray, this is where I dream, this is where I mend, rest, contemplate and sometimes cry......but am always nurtured.

Are you happy with your bedroom? Do you feel joy when you enter your bedroom? If not, be resourceful, listen to your yearnings, trust your eye and impulses and create your sacred space. With a little ingenuity, thrifty shopping, using elements you have tucked away in a different way, perhaps altered with the touch of a sewing machine, adding a fresh coat of paint, etc. you, too, can create your personal domain.

Today, Saturday, is the day my husband and I have a standing date, as we get up early and go to Farmer's Market to shop for local produce, flowers, sample pastries and sip our favorite coffee or tea. Today I treated myself to some beautiful flowers....splendor in a vase.....heavenly tokens of simple pleasures.

I also had to purchase one of my favorite autumn fruits...Fuji persimmons....a simple pleasure for the palatte..oh my, I love these.

And this afternoon, I may even allow myself to take a break from my studio to indulge in a nap....a sweet cat nap....

-meet Mojo our adopted cat-

Another simple pleasure......what simple pleasures do you surround yourself with. Treat yourself to something special today my friends...you are worth it!

Happy Autumn

Diana

Above Ground

2010-10-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, yet another year has flown by for me as I celebrated a birthday this past week. The ladies at the pool where I work out have a saying "any day above ground is a good day". It is that simple! Each day of life is so very precious and each passing year filled with memories, trials, laughs, blessings is so very treasured. This year I celebrate 62 years of living and I have so much to celebrate.

Hoping all of you October babies celebrated in style!

My hands have been busy as of late, designing pieces to fill orders in preparation for the holidays. Here is a taste of what I have been up to.

A sampling of both completed and "in progress" pieces....tweaked using the colored pencil feature in PhotoShop.

Heart Boxes

Next week's projects laid out on my planning table waiting to be assembled.

Just a quick visit today my friends as I must start to work in my studio. I have been so focused in meeting design deadlines that I have not had the time to pay you all visits....I apologize. Know that I am thinking about you and hoping life is good as you celebrate each day.

Happy Halloween!

Diana

Queen For A Day

2010-10-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

"QUEEN FOR A DAY"

Announcing the next class that Riki Schumacher and I will have the pleasure of teaching the end of February. If you have been wanting to know Riki's secrets on how she creates those charming etched boxes of hers and creating your own soldered dimensional, open boxes...here is the chance you have been waiting for.

Come and honor that Queen in you!

Click on the above flyer for details. To reserve your spot, email Diana. belladonna1351@charter.net

Space is limited.

Ta Ta

Diana

WONDER WOMEN

2010-10-19T11:22:00.000-07:00

On The Cuff Class

-Susan-

Meet some of the incredible women who joined Riki Schumacher and I in our "On The Cuff" class this weekend. First of all, Susan (above), showing off her Pearls of Wisdom cuffs.

-Jennifer metal stamping-

-Mari using a center punch-

-Gwynnie-

-Sara (left), Pat (center), and Trisha (right)-

-Brenda getting ready to use the flex shaft-

This group of women amazed me in what they accomplished in just two days. For some, this was their very first jewelry design class ever. Students got to play with shear breaks; belt sanders; torches; bracelet benders; flex shafts; jeweler's saws; etching; making hinges; wire-wrapping; cold joining and all kinds of hand tools in this class.

As you can see everyone completed at least two bracelets.

What a joy it was to share this past weekend with you all. You each added so much to my teaching experience. I always learn so much from you all. Despite the challenges of learning so much in so little time, all of you over came the obstacles with a sweet smile on your face and achieved a sense of accomplishment and gratification of having completed a project....and completed it well.

Look at these beautiful creations each now wears as an adornment. Each time you wear your cuffs, I hope that you will have a smiling heart as you recall your weekend with us and give yourself a hug knowing you made time for yourself and allowed your creative spirit to play.

Adorn your "Wonder Woman" cuffs and go and conquer the world!!

Thank you all!!!

Tootles

Diana

Sweet Nothings

2010-10-12T19:03:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago as I was rummaging through my drawers of supplies, I came across several bezels I purchased at Art Unraveled a few years ago. I decided that they had stayed empty and forgotten long enough. What could I do different I asked myself. I took out my stash of cabinet cards, mostly of angelic faces of children long gone....but not forgotten, not any less treasured.

My work, in general, tends to be quite detailed, bold and full of drama. For these sweet bezels I saw something more simple, more delicate in nature. So I began by scanning in my favorite images, shrinking them to an appropriate, workable size and cutting them out. Can you see a snipit of the original photo in the background of the image above?

I then played with Paints. With a tiny paint brush and a few swirly strokes, voila I had what looked like flowers highlighting foreheads, collars and shoulders....and yes, crowns of course.

Resin was poured in each bezel; embellishments adhered in place and whisperings of chain threaded through each bail. What do you think?

And there you have my "Sweet Nothings ".

....unconsequential expressions of affection

"he whispered sweet nothings into her ear."

- endearments-

-A little peek-

Now onto the prep for the "On The Cuff " class this weekend. Riki Schumacher and I will have the pleasure of teaching together once again and sharing what we love to do. We have been busy getting ready for all of the excitement. We still have a few spots left if you would like to join us at the last minute. For info, click on the class flyer under my "Teaching" label.

FYI....stayed tuned for information on our next class for all of you royal types out there (February 26 & 27, 2011) Flyer will be up next week.

Ta Ta

Diana

Happy Dance

2010-10-05T12:34:00.000-07:00

We have returned from our antique faire weekend adventures and adventures they were indeed. Riki and I had so much fun first starting with the Remnants of the Past antique faire in Nipomo, Ca. This faire is so classy in the care and attention each vendor puts into their booth displays...definite eye candy.

-Riki-

How clever is this....filling and coating antique gloves with plaster then putting them on a stand.

After meeting up with another friend for lunch, Riki and I were off to the Bay Area....about a 4 1/2 hour drive north. That evening we had dinner with Catherine Witherall, another artist friend of ours and ate, talked and laughed for hours.

Alameda was a blast, shopping was at a premium, and treasures were found. At lunch we took a break and met up with Catherine again and ran into Amy Hannah and Pam Garrison...how fun is that.

There were so many vendors (hundreds) that we couldn't see them all....I definitely need to wear rollerskates next time or get there at 6 in the morning with a flashlight. Here is a peak at some of the treasures I brought home...do you think I like bling just a little???

One of my favorite finds of the weekend was the alabaster art deco hand which I will use in my displays. Now I need to get in the studio and design so I can fill my pending orders.

Wishing you all a great week.

Tootles

Diana

Guess What?

2010-10-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

I'm packing my bags and getting ready to leave in the morning and I'm so excited.

Can you guess by the photos below where I will be going?

Okay, I'll tell you....I will be going to the Remnants of the Past antique show once again. This show is held in Nipomo, Ca twice a year in an enchanting barn in the middle of orange groves. Judy Watkins, who organizes it, selectively invites all of the vendors and donates a portion of the proceeds to ovarian cancer research. All of the vendors do such an extraordinary job of presentation so my camera will be with me at all times....along with my change purse....I robbed my piggy bank for this one.

And if that wasn't enough, I will then be traveling on with my good friend, Riki, to Alameda in the San Francisco Bay Area as we get in place to put our running shoes on the first thing Sunday morning to "shop til we drop" at the Alameda Antique Faire. Alameda has hundreds of vendors and I try to see everyone...wish I had a pair of shoes like the kids have with the drop down roller blades in the sole. I get so enthralled with the quest that it is hard to stop to even eat.

Yes, a great weekend indeed. I just love, love, love hunting for treasures, and being with friends.

I'll be sure to share my loot upon my return.

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

Tootles

Diana

Home Again Jiggidy Jig

2010-09-25T12:36:00.001-07:00

I'm home refreshed, relaxed and filled to the brim with contentment. My trip to Seattle and Vancouver was yummy. I enjoyed every moment with my boys, exploring Seattle, visiting family in Canada and spending time in one of my most favorite places on Vancouver Island.

Those of you who have followed my blog for a while now, know that I love Point No Point on Vancouver Island, Canada.

Before going to Canada, I spent about 4 days in Seattle. One of my favorite things to do there is to go to the Fremont Street Faire which is held every Sunday. I found some treasures there including the antique doll arms above which I made into bracelet displays by adding the linen arms....love them. Okay some of you may think they are macabre...but I find them charming.

"Ivy" also came home with me. She was tucked away with some other dolls in a basket and when I saw her bright green eyes and cute face, I knew she had to keep me company in my studio.

Jumping ahead....I visited an antique military store in Victoria and purchased several British military medals to incorporate into my designs....love the crowns and castles!!

~Lake Union & Seattle skyline~

So, let me bore you with some photos of my trip.

~wonderful food at Rebar in Victoria~

~Welcoming bench at Pt. No Pt on Vancouver Island~

We arrived at Pt. No Pt. in the early evening, too late for me to walk upon the paths I hold so enduring. The next morning while the boys slept, I crept out on my own, my soul yearning to step foot on the sacred ground.

As I walked, tears welled up in my eyes, tears of joy, tears of remembrance of those so dear that I once shared this magical place with now gone, tears of happiness to be here once again to a place my soul feels so at home.

A familiar awakening fills me with light, fills me with love, fills me with clarity of mind.

This place is certainly where the Gods first stepped on earth.

Sacred wellsprings of being.

Mist surrouned us everyday, the sun eluded us....but still fairies crept in on the feet of mist.

~my boys~

This place is certainly one of the hearts of the world.

Tootles

Diana

Going North

2010-09-08T13:01:00.000-07:00

My suitcases are getting packed for a trip to the Pacific Northwest to visit my boys and to spend 5 days in one of my most favorite places to be - Point No Point on Vancouver Island, Canada. They are forecasting some rain...oh well...packing the umbrella. It will be great to sit around the fireplace in the cabin, play games, eat popcorn and drink hot chocolate, get caught up and enjoy the gorgeous scenery.

I have been enjoying the book I created in Nina Bagley's class at Art and Soul last year which is a tribute to that magical place. It is a constant reminder of why I love Point No Point so much. And to share it with my boys will be wonderful....I couldn't ask for anything better.

I will be gone for a few weeks and will share my trip with you upon my return.

If you haven't seen the new Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine that hit the stands a few days ago...it is well worth the cost. Great articles once again. Check it out!

I do have an article in this issue - A River Runs Through It.

I apologize for being so brief....but I am dashing out the door to get a pedicure...a definite necessity before going on vacation right girls??

Hope you all have a great next few weeks and I'll be chatting with ya when I get back.

Tootles
Diana

Be Happy

2010-08-29T10:21:00.000-07:00

Today as I was visiting my favorite blogs, I came across this amazing video at FRENCH CHARMING. Karyn of French Charming has started "Project Butterfly" as a result of going through one of the most challenging times of her life in the hopes to empower and inspire others through self discovery.

Enjoy the video ......it is amazing......drink in all that it can bless you with on this glorious Sunday morning. And drop on over to French Charming to check out the details of Project Butterfly.

Tootles

Diana

Of Towers and Turrets

2010-08-27T12:43:00.001-07:00

Just had to share with you all a fantastic new on-line class starting today with talented Deryn Mentock and Sharon Tomlinson. No need to panic as there is plenty of time to sign-up and get going. The on-line class will be available for about four months and you can work at your leisure. Just click on Deryn's name and you will be flown on over to her site with all of the exciting details.

This is an amazing class with so many techniques being taught...WOW....inspiration galore!!

Tootles

Diana

Playing With Clay

2010-08-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

-My bead-

I had the pleasure of spending this last weekend with Jonna Faulkner, a truly amazing jewelry artist.

I have wanted to learn about COPPER clay for a long time and it was well worth the wait and anticipation. We used Art Clay Copper and it was so easy to work with and to fire. I love the rich hue of the copper...perfect for incorporating into fall designs.

-Jonna during demo-

The class project was to create a cylinder shaped bead incorporating both copper and fine silver clays. We first worked with copper clay and formed our bead around a 5/8" dowel wrapped in a teflon sheet. The copper was then fired.

The next day, we worked on the fine silver bead caps and appliques. My, my....applique is very intricate, time consuming work....and I am really pleased with the results. Each element is created independently, must be adhered separately, and dried ...making sure that each element is connected to eachother. This process, while taking about 4 hours, was very Zen-ful....and relaxing....although I understand from my table mate, Linda, that I was doing a lot of sighing.

Setting stones was the final step. Since I just love my bling, I added about 5 cz's. I decided to not add a bottom cap on mine. But instead, I left the bottom of the bead open and dangled an antique chandelier crystal from the inside.....it makes an ever so soft jingle....reminiscent of an enchanting tiny windchime. There are definitely necessary steps to be taken when using copper in combination with fine silver, but oh so worth it don't you think. I'm just thoroughly over the moon with the results.

I must apologize for not blogging much during this summer....wow where has the time flown. The minutes of my days have been filled with going to the pool, walking, working with a personal trainer, meeting with friends, taking classes, teaching, designing for my customers, entertaining grand daughters and oh yes....I purchased an IPad!!! Oh my....what a technological advancement that is....a grown-up toy for sure. I have been a PC girl most of my adult life, but I can tell you that I am becoming a convert. I will be asking for a MacBook Pro for Christmas.

I am now beginning to fill my iBook library full of some of the books I have long wanted. One of these books is Julia Cameron's "Heart Steps." .....a book so rich with thoughtful reflections. Let me share one such reflection here.

MINE IS AN ADVENTUROUS HEART

"I choose an expansive life. I choose adventure, freedom, self-expression. I choose self-definition, self-love, self-renewal. Life expands or contracts according to my expectations. I expect good and that is what I exerpience. Viewing the whole, I choose to be interconnected yet independent. I allow the God-force within me to open and enlarge my lens of perception and realm of action. My horizons stretch ever wider as I define my identity in terms of my divinity. I am an adventurer, an explorer, a dreamer whose dreams become true. I embrace the adventure of life. I have courage."

I wish you all adventure and self-renewal.

Tootles

Diana

Friends

2010-08-08T11:14:00.000-07:00

THE IMPORTANCE OF FRIENDS

Last week my sweet friend, Riki, forwarded on to me an email she received from a friend of hers. The message is so powerful that I wanted to share it with you. We all know how important friends are in our lives but do we know just how good they are for our health.

Here is what Riki's friend has to say:

"I just finished taking an evening class at Stanford. The last lecture was on the mind-body connection--the relationship between stress and disease. The speaker (head of psychiatry at Stanford) said, among other things that one of the best things that a man could do for his health is to be married to a woman whereas for a woman, one of the best things she could do for her health was to nurture her relationships with her girlfriends. At first everyone laughed, but he was serious.

Women connect with each other differently and provide support systems that help each other to deal with stress and difficult life experiences. Physically this quality "girlfriend time" helps us to create more serotonin--a neurotransmitter that helps combat depression and can create a general feeling of well being. Women share feelings whereas men often form relationships around activities. They rarely sit down with a buddy and talk about how they feel about certain things or how their personal lives are going. Jobs? Yes. Sports? Yes. Cars? Yes. Fishing, hunting, golf? Yes. But their feelings?--rarely. Women do it all of the time. We share from our souls with our sisters, and evidently that is very good for our health. He said that spending time with a friend is just as important to our general health as jogging or working out at a gym.

There's a tendency to think that when we are "exercising" we are doing something good for our bodies, but when we are hanging out with friends, we are wasting our time and should be more productively engaged--not true. In fact, he said that failure to create and maintain quality personal relationships with other humans is as dangerous to our physical health as smoking! So every time you hang out to schmooze with a gal pal, just pat yourself on the back and congratulate yourself for doing something good for your health! We are indeed very, very lucky. Sooo let's toast to our friendship with our girlfriends. Evidently it's very good for our health."

Are you making time for your gal pals? I am so very blessed with many friends and treasure their sisterhood. I want to thank you also for being there with your kind words and support over the last few years that I have had this blog.

I am aware of the importance of friends and schedule time almost every week to meet up with friends. My art group has a standing get together once a week. Those of us who can make it, walk about three miles along a beautiful creek in the coastal moutains to the ocean. Sometimes we linger there over a cup of coffee or tea, marvel at the beauty of the nature that surrounds us and share our current life stories. We then journey back to our meeting place, which happens to be located at a wonderful outside cafe, and we stop and chat some more over lunch. All in all we spend sometimes between 3-4 hours together. The closeness we feel, the safety in sharing our innermost joys, sorrows, challenges is most certainly heaven sent.

I hope that you all have a friend(s) that you can count on, to love, to share with, to create with and to celebrate your glorious life with.

Hugs

Diana

Artful Journey

2010-07-30T16:57:00.001-07:00

Ahhh... I have just recently returned from one of my favorite retreat experiences ever. Artful Journey is the creation of Cindy O'Leary who had a dream of creating a retreat in a very nurturing, relaxing, beautiful environment with outstanding instructors. Cindy's dream has come true as she just completed her second, successful Artful Journey in the redwoods outside the artsy town of Los Gatos, California. The detail and love that Cindy put into creating this event was very evident from the moment of arrival and being gifted with these beautiful, hand-sewn welcome kits; home-baked, pecan chocolate chip cookies for afternoon break; and a wine and appetizer reception to name just a few. Come along with me as I share a little bit about my experience.

"Creativity flourishes in a place of safety and acceptance."

"Fulfilling our creativity is a sacred trust."
"Violating someone's creativity violates a sacred trust."

"Creative feedback must build on strengths, never focus on weaknesses"

"All creative ideas are children who deserve our protection."
"Creative feedback must support the creative child, never shame it"

"Creativity grows among friends, withers among enemies."

"All creative success requires creative failure."

See the santos doll Stephanie is kissing goodbye???? Well, she (LeeLee) now resides in my living room. Yes, I just had to have her. Stephanie will be teaching at Artful Journey in February 2011 and sharing her new passion for everything plaster....including the making of her santos dolls!!!

-Richard Salley's class (I'm on the right)-

"Success occurs in clusters and is born in generosity."

I had the pleasure of being in Richard Salley's class. I had so much fun learning some of Richard's unveiled secrets and basking in his generous, relaxed teaching style. Thank you, Richard! Here are the few pieces I completed in Richard's class. Can you believe that the foundation of both pieces is a baby food jar lid?

-Hinged Locket....of course, I had to incorporate my bling!-

-and, of course, an 1800's porcelain German doll's head had to grace my cuff bracelet....along with the bling a ling. -

The line-up for the Artful Journey in Febraury 2011 is up and registration starts soon. I invite you to peruse the offerings and stand ready for registration to begin. I know the word is getting spread about Cindy's fantastic retreat experience and classes will fill quickly.

Tootles

Diana

*Quotes from - Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way"

ON THE CUFF

2010-07-06T13:52:00.001-07:00

October 16 & 17, 2010

Class Fee: $210

Kit Fee: $40

Reservations: 805-544-3664

belladonna1351@charter.net

RIKI SCHUMACHER and I are proud to announce our next class that we will team teach. It's all about CUFFS. Riki will be teaching her fabulous Hinged Cuff and I will be teaching my Pearls of Wisdom Cuff. This 2-day workshop will take place in Riki's studio in Pismo Beach, on the sunny Central Coast of California. Click on the flyer above to get the full scoop. Feel free to email me or call if you should have any questions or would like to sign up. Space is limited.

Ta Ta

Diana

Postcards

2010-06-26T14:12:00.001-07:00

POSTCARDS

Have you ever not really traveled anywhere outside of your own zip code but felt as though you have made a major journey? Me too. I've been on such a journey. My journey has been a personal one and so full of rich moments. At the beginning of this year I mentioned that one of my goals was to create harmony and balance in my life. I know that many of you out there know exactly what I mean. For me, it has been a life long goal it seems.

AFter much introspective observation, refocusing, letting go, setting boundaries, asking for help and centering...my life has achieved the balance I have for so long sought. Less is truly MORE.
Along life's journey we all develop survival techniques out of necessity to just keep going, to stay alive, to do just that "survive." Then as we traverse down various paths, we discover that those survival instincts no longer serve us but indeed are now detrimental to our personal growth. It's at those times, we must examine our beliefs and ask ourselves if they are serving us and determine if they are, in fact, true. The process of letting go of those beliefs that no longer hold value can be challenging but once accomplshed can be such a freeing and UPLIFTING experience. Now you have room to fill that space with new desires and new dreams.....or NOT! I have always been a person who fills up those spaces. But now I'm choosing not to and LESS IS TRULY MORE!

I believe days spent with family and friends are at a premium as evidenced in the photo above of my sweet sister and her granddaughter. Wouldn't it be awesome to see the world through the eyes (and lense) of a 1 year old once again? I believe time spent with friends are endearing gifts. Here is a photo of my farewell get together with my dear friend of over 35 years (below). She is moving to another state....I will miss her so.

So my postcards to you today are not from an exotic, far away paradise with handsome cabana boys serving me margaritas, but from my simple "day-in-the-life" of Diana. A day filled with a simple taste of a sweet strawberry, a visit to farmer's market, a day with loved ones, a day spent creating, a day of gratitude, a day of healthy self care, a day of stoppng and smelling the roses, and a day believing in what I believe to be true.

Next week I hope to post the beginning of a series of posts entitled "FAVES" in which I will share with you some of my favorite tools in my studio which I would hate to be without. Also, stay tuned for an announcement of the next class that Riki Schumacher and I will be team teaching in October.

I Need Your Help Please ....I am currently planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest to visit my son who lives in Seattle the middle of September. I will have a few days to myself while my son is working during the day and would like to ask for your help in suggesting interesting places to visit, shop, eat, etc. in Seattle. Any ideas?? After this trip.....I'll be able to send you real postcards!

TOOTLES

Diana

Looky, Looky

2010-06-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

RIKI GIVEAWAY

Looky, looky what my friend Riki Schumacher is giving away on her blog. Don't miss out. Her charming etched, embellished boxes have become so very popular and admired. Isn't this one so very sweet? I just love her nature theme complete with a resined egg, moss and feather. I own one of Riki's boxes and have it placed on display along with my favorite fragrances on a sterling silver tray....a constant reminder of my dear friend.

Yesterday I picked up the new Summer 2010 issue of Belle Armoire Jewelry. And Looky, Looky who is in it.....yes, my friend Riki. Her antique sterling silver napkin ring makeover is so very chic. What a gorgeous, unique cuff, Riki!

Looky, Looky.....Another good friend, Diane Cook is also featured in this issue. Diane has her version of a cuff showcased....etched and cold joined....layers of texture and bling. Check it out! FYI....Diane is the current guest curator for Crescendoh.com. Read about how art has changed Diane's life and how it can possibly change yours.

And yet another person I have the pleasure of calling friend, Deryn Mentock has her tiny tintype gems featured. My favorite is her adorable little girl turned angel. Tintypes are so fun to incorporate into mixed media art in so many ways.

This issue is rich with ideas. I am constantly impressed with Stampington's layouts, photography, artists and articles.

Hope you are all having a fabulous week!

Tootles

Diana

BREATHE

2010-05-18T18:03:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that it has been so very long since my last post. What can I say but "life" has just been happening. Thank you to all of you who drop by and leave such sweet comments. I want you to know how very special you are to me. In keeping a blog sometimes I wonder what I have to say that someone else might be interested in. What do I have to share that might benefit others. Well, the universe has been reaching out to me with messages everywhere as of late.....and my ears and heart are tuned in. A common thread has been woven through the theme of the message....JUST BREATHE!!! Life has been blessing me with challenges and the help I have needed has been there. The details of my challenges I wish to keep private but wanted to share with you life's gentle reminders I have been given during the last few months.

BREATHE

I would like to introduce you to a simply amazing woman who has been in my life for many years now. Kay Heaton owns and runs Club Kay located here on the Central Coast of California. Kay integrates several aquatic modalities and exercise techniques in helping people to be the best that they can physically while promoting self-awareness and esteem. Kay is a woman in her 70's and most of her life has been dedicated to helping others. She works with a wide variety of people at various stages in their lives from the physically disabled, physically challenged, pregnant, and the aging (I fit into the latter category). This woman is so incredible and pushes us all to be better, stronger, flexible and resilient.....even through her own health challenges. I spend 3-4 mornings a week with Kay in her 96 degree pool coaxing my body to move. Each day we hear the same mantra....BREATHE! USE YOUR CORE BREATH TO HELP YOU THROUGH THE MOST INTENSE PART OF THE MOVEMENT! Thank you Kay....kiss, kiss!

To breathe is to - relieve stress, to nourish your body and soul, breathe life into your being, to make apparent, to manifest.

Deep cleansing breaths are so nourishing and relaxing to the body and the focus of so many holistic approaches to living....yoga, meditation, energy work, and more. The cuff bracelet was designed especially for me to wear as a reminder to just BREATHE. I chose a bird to symbolize freedom and flight and added a few antique French religious medals representing my faith and spirit. .....a mantra for my wrist.

As I design pieces for a show this week, I see how my pieces reflect where I am at this time in my life. Isn't that what our art should do......be a reflection of our soul within.

Iron Maiden

As I design in my studio, I have a few muses to keep me company. One of my favorite mixed media artists is JoAnna Pierotti. JoAnna is a working artist and creates every day to support she and her husband. Her pieces truly speak to me and I have quite a collection of her creations. I wanted to share a few of my favorites with you. Meet my "Iron Maiden....Rebekah". I LOVe her!

Hope

And this is "Hope". For Hope's wings JoAnna used the old leather sole of a child's shoe....I would have never thought of that. Her designs are always so inspirational and include words to live by.

I am enjoying incorporating antique reglious icons, medals and crucifixes into my current work. Even though I am not Catholic these symbols represent the ultimate in HOPE, FAITH, and LOVE. LOVE being the greatest of all....love of self, love of life and the love of humanity as a whole.

Another one of JoAnna's pieces.

I know you are wondering what does a photograph of a tile floor have to do with the theme of this post. Well one of the projects that has been keeping me occupied during the last month has been remodeling my kitchen. New tile, new paint, new energy efficient refridgerator. Now I can put my house back together and BREATHE.

Hugs

Diana

XOXO

Memory Walk

2010-04-25T09:55:00.001-07:00

Memory Walk

Susan Price

I must share with you an amazing quilt that my friend, Susan, created in memory of her mother who passed away last year as a result of alzheimers. It brought tears to my eyes. I asked Susan what her inspiration was in creating Memory Walk....and she had this to say:

The inspiration for this quilt came from having gone to Houston, where I had taken two classes with Hollis Chantelain. Her quilts make statements and are very very powerful, but she deals with things like hunger or lack of drinking water in Africa.

So when I got home, I got to thinking about how I could use my quilts for something other than just creating a beautiful piece of quilting and remembered this particular image of mom and Bill (boyfriend of Susan's mom) that had been taken about two months before they both passed away. As I looked at the photo closer, I saw the hidden messages like the exit sign above their heads and then the door in the background that is actually a door to mom's room but reads as "the exit". I realized that this could make a very powerful statement about Alzheimer's. Having been an avid fund-raiser for the Alzheimer's Association in past years, I know they are always looking for other ways to help with Alzheimer's Awareness. It is Susan's hope that this quilt will be a "traveling" quilt, traveling around California increasing peoples awareness about Alzheimer's.

Susan has such a big and caring heart, she has put together a Moving Forward Cruise to help people who have experienced a loss in their life. I have had the pleasure of participating in one of Susan's cruises (not the Moving Forward Cruise) and can attest to Susan's ability to put together a memorable experience for all with every little detail taken care of. I invite you to visit Susan's website to find out about the details of this healing cruise.

Bravo, Susan!

Diana

A Little Slice of Heaven

2010-04-21T17:44:00.001-07:00

My Idea of Heaven

I invite you to a little taste of my wonderful day on Monday. One of my most favorite friends and I spent the day in the charming seaside village of Cambria on the Central Coast of California. We started out our day with a scrumptious lunch as we dined in the gardens of Robin's Restaurant and indulged ourselves with this yummy carrot cake. It was so, so good with the mango, passion fruit herbal iced tea.

We then, of course, went shopping in a few of our favorite shops. One of them being Birds of a Feather owned by Bonnie Crawford. Bonnie features local mixed media artists' creations and antique goodies. While there, we had a very serendipitous meeting with a good friend, Dorothy. A few items found there way into my bag. The sweet felted and hand-embroidered bag is by a mixed media artist friend of mine, Cindy Farris. You may have seen some of Cindy's birdie bags in Stampington's Haute Handbag publication. I love this one with all of my colors. I also found an antique vespa case from Britain, a bar of my favorite honey, French milled soap, and an antique sterling silver bee bracelet....that will soon make its way into a few pieces of my artwork....yes, Riki you can have one!!

Well, after the indulgent carrot cake, Susan and I took a fabulous walk along the boardwalk there along Moonstone Beach. As you can see, the day was beautiful, the colors outrageous and that along with all of the wildlife I didn't manage to capture on camera and the company of a dear friend..my day in Cambria was a Little Slice of Heaven. Here's wishing that you all find time for creating your little slices of heaven.

(Robin's Restaurant in Cambria)

The falling Waters led me,

The Foodful waters fed me,

And brought me to the lowest land,

(me, Dorothy, and dear friend, Susan)

Unerring to the Ocean sand,

The Moss upon the forest bark,

Was pole-star when the night was dark;

The purple berries in the wood

Supplied me necessary food.

(Bonnie giving me my package at Birds of a Feather)

For Nature ever faithful is

To such as trust her faithfulness.

When the Forest shall mislead me,

When the night and morning lie,

When Sea and land refuse to feed me,

'Twill be time enough to die;

Then will yet my mother yield

A pillow in her greenest field,

Nor the June flowers scorn to cover

The clay of their departed lover.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

(Can you see the amazing pelicans at the top of this photo?...they were the grande finale of our walk.... Mother Nature bearing gifts!)

If ever there were a spring day so perfect, so

uplifted by a warm intermittent breeze.

~Billy Collins

Tootles

Diana

Pot of Gold

2010-04-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

CHARMING ROMANCE

I had the pleasure of spending this last weekend with nine wonderful ladies as Riki Schumacher and I taught our Charming Romance class here on the supposedly sunny California coast. Shame on me...I forgot my camera each day and don't have any pictures to show you of the radiant faces of the wonderful people who came to play with us. Each person brought with them their gifts of enthusiasm, creativity, and eagerness to learn.

Despite 53 mph gale force winds, horizontal rain, hail and the electricity being out for most of the afternoon on Sunday, everyone seemed to have a grand time. Everyone was so focused on their projects that when the power went out, no one seemed to be bothered and just kept on working in the dim light. This was an amazing group of ladies, I must say...I enjoyed them so much. Beautiful PMC charms were created, brass etched, and rivets, eyelets and mini hardware set into place.

After everyone had gone on Sunday, Riki and I relaxed over a glass of wine in the warm glow of candlelight and talked about the weekend's events. We both agreed how very special the last two days had been despite the storm and the challenges it brought. And as we were toasting to the personal joys of teaching and sharing our lives with like-minded artful souls, a double rainbow appeared outside our window which reminded us of how our lives are blessed with "pots of gold".

Thank you all who chose to spend the weekend with us. I hope that you left class feeling enrichened by the new friendships made and new techniques learned. Hopefully you will join us once again.

Tootles

Diana

Resurrection

2010-04-02T17:57:00.000-07:00

HAPPY EASTER!

To me Easter symbolizes HOPE, REBIRTH and RENEWAL. Easter memories of years gone by are filled with new dresses and hats to wear to church, bad hair days, coloring eggs, hiding eggs, hunting eggs, eating eggs, the smell of Easter Lilies and hyacinths, ham dinner, lemon pie, chocolate Easter bunnies, bunnies, PEEPS, jelly beans, family, promise, and the eternal message of HOPE and LOVE.

May your Easter celebration be filled with love and the hope of new beginnings.

Hugs

Diana

Twisted Sistah Choker and Cuff Workshop

2010-03-23T16:57:00.000-07:00

So many of you have requested that I offer my Twisted Sistah class here on the Central Coast of California after I returned from Adorn Me! Well, I have selected the date and here are the details. I have expanded the 1-day class and created a 2-day class just for you. Not only will we be designing the Twisted Sistah choker but a cuff as well and making our own fused fine silver chain.

The workshop will be July 10 & 11 and take place in my cozy studio.....so seating is very limited. The flyer above has the full scoop. Just call or email me if you are interested in securing your spot in this great workshop. Resin, free-form wire wrapping, wire weaving, and fusing techniques will be presented.

Hope to see you!

Ta Ta

Diana

CHARMING ROMANCE

2010-03-15T12:27:00.001-07:00

For those of you who were not able to join Riki and I in our February "Charming Romance" class, we have a few spots left in our April 10 & 11 workshop. The workshop will be held in Riki's studio here on the beautiful Central Coast of California. This workshop is packed full of techniques -- basic PMC and molding techniques; basic metalsmithing using mini hardware to connect your metals; etching and assemblage of a one-of-kind charm bracelet. Click on the above flyer for more details. You may contact me via email to secure your spot: belladonna1351@charter.net.

Fondly,

Diana

Etsy Listings

2010-03-14T17:09:00.000-07:00

JUST A TEASER.....

I have finally listed a few items for sale on my Etsy store which has stood empty for ever so long.

Enjoy.

Diana

Truly Adorned

2010-03-11T12:40:00.000-08:00

ADORNED I HAVE BEEN!!

These are just some of the beautiful faces and souls of my students that I was privileged to spend last week at ADORN ME! with. It has taken me a few days to catch my breath, unpack, and ruminant on all of the inspiration, genuine warmth, friendship, laughter, support and magic that seemed to be a constant at this premiere event. I commend Linda and Chuck Young on the execution of a 1st rate mixed media jewelry art retreat. Speaking from both a teacher and student's point of view, everything ran smoothly, the hotel was beautiful, the staff accommodating and attendees so kind, welcoming, and full of creative energy. Thank you to all of you for making my first teaching experience at a national retreat a superb one. I loved teaching, loved all of you who chose to spend a day or two with me in my classes, loved the classes I participated in...loved it, loved it!

Here are a few of the Twisted Sistah chokers in progress.....aren't they divine! Resin filled bezels stand drying, eager to join the encrusted chokers as well as chains and wire wrapped beads. I was so very PROUD of my students, they did a beautiful job of their pieces.

Meet Karen. Karen chose to hang a gorgeous vintage rhinestone piece from her choker....it was all that I could do to keep myself from slipping that piece into my bag....simply stunning, Karen! Karen was also in my Encrusted Viking Knit Choker class and in the picture on the right is weaving her Viking Knit.

And then there was VENDOR NIGHT. What a blast that night was. I truly didn't know what to expect and was over-whelmed by the attention my pieces received. I returned home with only a few pieces and am so very grateful for those of you who purchased my creations. May you wear them in good health and feel the love that went into each element.

There was a lot of picture taking amongst the artists. In the photo above you see (from left to right) Ruth Rae, Amy Hanna, Stephanie Rubiano, Pam Garrison, and yours truly. In the photo on the bottom left you will find Jane Salley, Keith LoBue, and Richard Salley. I took Keith's "Back to the Chain Gang" class which opened my eyes to a lot of new tricks. I must say that Keith has such an infectious smile, exudes a charming charisma and so, so extremely talented and a generous artist.

And then there are the FRIENDS.....both new and old. Look at those sweet smiles of my treasured friends Diane Cook and Riki Schumacher in the upper left....you've got to love them. In the next picture is Charlene Gray, Melissa Manley and myself as we dine on yummy Tex-Mex food. Charlene was SUCH a help to me at Adorn Me! helping me set up my class and vendor night. Charlene's heart is huge and I so appreciate her friendship and giving spirit. Thank you Charlene! Then there is Melissa Manley.....what a talented lady she is. I was introduced to enameling as I participated in her Hard Candy class. How exciting it is to add one more technique to my jewelry. In the bottom left photo, it's us Three Amigas again (Riki, Diane and I) in addition to Charlene in the back and sweet Deryn Mentock.

Oh my goodness then there are my new friends Rice Freeman-Zachery (with two dots over the "e" and pronounced like "Lisa" but with an "R") and her charming hubby Earl. Rice and Earl are writing a book on art retreats and were at Adorn Me! all week taking photos and taking notes. Rice writes for several of the Stampington publications....I know you have read her articles. What a "colorful" couple Rice and Earl are. I loved their clothes, their wit, their unabandoned laughter and joy of life. Rice hand dyes all of her and EArl's clothes and has such fun with color. I purposely highlighted some of the words in this section in orange as that obviously is Rice's favorite color. I have a new appreciation for ORANGE!

Now I would like to share a few of the new treasures I returned home with. Look at this outstanding hand-hammered copper bowl Melissa Manley designed. The following words are hand stamped into the bowl "The self is a circle whose center is everywhere and whose circumference is nowhere." ~C. Jung. Melissa was so very sweet and gifted me with the beautiful enameled bead wrapped in leather and tied with string. Thank you Melissa!

And Yes I was one of the lucky ones who purchased (actually traded) one of Riki's hand etched boxes. Riki did such an amazing job of these little gems.

These rings practically jumped out of their artfully decorated boxes and onto my fingers when I first set eyes on them. I had the pleasure of meeting Lorena Angulo from San Antonio on Vendor Night. I was so taken by her metal clay work. Her card reads "handcrafted artisan jewelry with soul" and soul these pieces and their maker truly do possess.

Well, that gives you a recap of my week in the heart of Texas. Great fun! News Flash....Within the next few days I will be listing some of my jewelry for sale in my Etsy store that has been empty for ever so long. Hope you will come by for a visit to see if there is a piece or two that you just can't live without.

Tootles

Diana

Spring Has Sprung

2010-02-23T14:29:00.000-08:00

Spring is certainly in the air not only with the visiting robins and wild canaries that frequent my garden this time of year, but with the arrival of the new Spring 2010 issue of Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine. I wanted to share with you a few of the highlights from yet another great issue with inspiring designs, great photos, wonderful resources and eye candy on every page.

I have been honored once again to have a few pieces of my jewelry featured in this issue. My Pearls of Wisdom choker and cuff are examples of what fun you can have playing with fire, metal, solder and pearls.

I am so very excited to share with you a few pages of Riki Schumacher's, article "The Key to Etching". Riki and I are good friends and team teach mixed media jewelry art classes. I encourage you to visit her blog to see the amazing things this lady is creating. Riki will be teaching at Adorn Me! in Texas next week and has spots left in her two classes. If you have an opportunity to be at Adorn Me! and haven't filled your dance card yet, don't miss taking a class from this extremely talented artist.

And what can I say about this lady Stephanie Lee? She is not only a multi-talented mixed media artist but has the most generous and kindest heart. Her talent runneth over in so many areas. I have taken three classes from Stephanie over the past few years and learned so much. I do have to say that she is one of my mentors hands down.

Carla Reiter's pieces featured in this issue and her absolutely amazing knitting with fine wire techniques just take my breath away. Oh My!!

Be on the lookout for this issue to soon hit the stands. Well, I must return to my packing for Adorn Me! ...will my "to do" lists ever stop???? I am so excited to be traveling with my friend Riki to Houston and meeting up with our friend Diane Cook. What fun is in store meeting new art friends, sharing passions, stories, food and laughter....love it!

Tootles

Diana

Treasure Keepers

2010-02-12T19:07:00.000-08:00

~Isabella~

I'd like to introduce you to my new girlie friends......my Treasure Keepers. In preparing for vendor night at Adorn Me!, I decided to play with some antique boxes I picked up at the Alameda Antique Faire last month. For those of you who have not heard of Adorn Me! yet, it is a mixed media jewelry art retreat/extravaganza being held in Houston, TX March 2-7. I will be teaching, taking classes and participating in vendor night on Friday evening.

Jewelry boxes (or Treasure Keepers) seemed to be the perfect thing to display and sell at an all jewelry art retreat...don't you think? So here are my first attempts at creating whimsical, artdoll/jewelry boxes.
The fashionista in me had so much fun in dressing each of these ladies. Each has a different personality, color theme and a collection of antique hardware, jewelry, silk fabrics, ephemera, antique crystals, 1800's porcelain doll heads (and some arms and legs); and found objects.

~Camilla~

~Alyce~

~Phoebe~

Phoebe is adorned with antique bridal veil fabric that I dyed using a little acrylic paint and water. Her neck is an Honest Tea bottle top that I soldered with dots. I also soldered a border around the top of the box.

I hope to see some of you at Adorn Me! If you are attending, I would love to meet you. Please introduce yourself to me....it would be wonderful to put a face to a name.

Tootles

Diana

Positive, Loving Thoughts

2010-02-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

I know it has been about three weeks since I have visited with you....how time does get away from me. Thank y0u to those who have contacted me asking if I was okay. How very sweet of you to think of me....I am touched. Yes, I am fine....just moving at the speed of light as of late doing some of the same things I mentioned in my last post....family, teaching, designing.

I did want to stop and take a few minutes to wish you all a very happy Valentine's Day week! My friend, Stephani, gifted me with this adorable papermache heart this last weekend. It will sit on my workbench in my studio throughout the year to remind me of her presence in my life. Thank you, Stephani!

During the last few weeks, my torch has been fired up, my soldering iron heated and solder melted, metal cut, glass ground, Art Clay formed and shaped, holes drilled, fabric woven and embellished and the enticing feeling of found objects embraced and repurposed.

I had the pleasure of spending a weekend with the very talented silver clay artist, Jonna Faulkner, and designed the hinged shadow box featured on the right in the photo above and highlighted in the photo below. I learned so much and had so much fun. My shadow box is in the company of pieces I will be taking to Adorn Me! in Texas to sell Vendor Night....with the exception of the heart box with the art deco rhinestone dress clip on top. That piece and my fine silver clay shadow box are going to take up residence at my house for a while.

During this Valentine's Day celebration, I would like to encourage you all to be loving to yourself. You don't have to have a special someone in your life to feel loved and celebrate life. Be creative and give to yourself this week in some way. Simple acts are very nurturing. Positive thoughts and affirmations can be gifts that keep on giving and don't cost a thing. You have the ability to create what you want in this life. Write a few affirmations on pieces of paper and tuck them into your purse, your pant pocket, on your mirror, inside of your medicine chest, pinned on to your favorite top, the refridgerator, your work bench, your car mirror.....get it. It's amazing how your life can be blessed with changes for the good if you choose to focus on the positive even to the point of changing habitual negative thought patterns or attitudes.

I have used positive affirmations and visualizations for many years now and it is amazing how they can help counterbalance years of old mental habits. It's important that when you phrase your positive affirmation that it be in the present tense, as though it has already manifested itself. Here are a few to give you an idea.....you may want to even tie them up with a beautiful ribbon or a chocolate kiss!

Perfect wisdom is in my heart.

I love and appreciate myself just as I am.

I love to love and be loved.

The more I love myself, the more love I have to give others.

I now give and receive love freely.

I am an open channel of creative energy.

I feel happy just being alive.

Hugs and kisses

Diana

Not Enough Hours In A Day

2010-01-15T15:08:00.001-08:00

Just a quick post to so Hello to all of you out there, hoping your new year is starting off well and to give you a recap of my last two whirlwind weeks. Our grand-daughters, ages 7 and 4, came to stay with us for four, fun-filled days. What joy-filled little spirits they are so full of curiosity, playfulness and effectious laughter. One morning I couldn't help but fall in love with a pair of the girl's pink shoes and thinking back at how many years ago, I too, could fit my little feet into those sweet shoes. Later that day, our 7-year old, decided to slip on grandpa's shoes over her shoes. Little did she realize that Nana was looking over her shoulder taking this photo. It made me reflect on how the word "shoe" is used in so many quotes to describe various facets of our lives: " Wait for the other shoe to drop."; "If you could walk in someone else's shoes for a day."; "If the shoe fits."; "Fill someone's shoes."; "If the shoe was on the other foot." I stopped and asked myself if I could metaphorically walk in someone else's shoes, who would it be??? And you know, I wouldn't want to walk in anyone else's shoes except my very own. By wearing my own shoes, I have my own identity, I travel my own life journey, I travel paths of my choosing (even though stumbling at times), I am grateful for the shoes that support my feet, my being. The only thing better than wearing my own shoes, would be to wear NO ShoEs and feel the earth beneath my feet. Who's shoes would you want to walk in?
The first weekend in January my friend, Riki, and I made a very impromtu trip to the Alameda Antique Faire in the San Francisco Bay area. What fun we had. So much eye candy! There were so many vendors that we didn't have enough time to visit everyone....so next time we will arrive earlier. Among some of my purchases I brought home was a collection of antique wooden boxes. My intention is to repurpose these boxes and create mixed media assemblage jewelry boxes out of them. They will be available for sale Vendor Night at ADORN ME!Friday, March 5th. For information on Adorn Me!, click on the badge in my sidebar.

Of course I had to purchase more bling!

I've been busy putting together class kits for my students at Adorn Me! and for "A ChaRminG RoMaNCe" class which Riki and I will be team teaching Feb. 6 and 7, then again April 10 & 11. You can find information on the class(s) in the "Teaching" section of this blog. There are still spaces available in my classes at Adorn Me! and A Charming Romance for any of you wishing to join me.

My sweet husband has even been helping me prepare my class kits. As long as I ask him to help out with anything that involves using man "TOOLS", he is right there. Here he is sanding copper pipe pieces for the bezels I will be soldering for my students in my Twisted Sistah class at Adorn ME!.

On my sewing bench you can find cut fabric and all the notions to complete two new aprons...now I just have to find a little elf to sew them for me....any elf's out there with nothing to do? Don't you just love my darling nest pincushion. Jackie at Wren's Nest designed that. She has more one-of-kind pincushions and other goodies in her etsy shop.

All over my studio are bits and pieces of jewelry "in progress"....either in sketches on scrap pieces of paper, cups filled with all of the parts, partially completed components, pieces needing shined up, tagged, inventoried and bagged.

Display items have been carefully selected to ship to Houston for Adorn Me!'s vendor night.

Look at this gorgeous journal I just received from La Paperie & Cozy in Nova Scotia. I look forward to filling it's pages with heart pourings as I travel through Stephanie Lee's "THought THreads" on-line journaling class.

This gives you an idea of my days in addition to going to aqua-aerobics class three mornings a week and walking with my art buddies on Wedsnesdays.....so full, so fabulous! I have a good life!

*************************

On another note, as our hearts go out to the people of Haiti in this tragic time, I would like to invite you to visit Deryn Mentock's blog to see what she is doing to raise $$ for the people of Haiti...thank you Deryn. Another artist, Rebecca Sower has a personal connection to Haiti. Rebecca just returned from a trip to Haiti two weeks ago and has touching stories to share about her friends there. I know it is difficult to know what just one person can do in times like this, however, every little bit can help.

**************************

Blessings to you all

Diana

My Wish For You

2009-12-31T14:54:00.000-08:00

I found the following poem on Susan Tuttle's blog and loved it so much I wanted to share it with you. "This is my wish for you:

Comfort on difficult days,
smiles when sadness intrudes,
rainbows to follow the clouds,

laughter to kiss your lips,

sunsets to warm your heart,

hugs when spirits sag,

beauty for your eyes to see,

friendship to brighten your being,

faith so that you can believe,

confidence for when you are in doubt,

courage to know yourself,

patience to accept the truth,

love to complete your life."

~anonymous ~

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year!

(photos taken on trip to Paris 2004)

Diana

Giveaway Winners

2009-12-18T15:18:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for leaving such kind comments on my Giveaway post. I was so excited to hear from so many new people as well as those of you who leave comments regularly. Two winners have been selected and they are:

Alice Peterson will receive the bracelet with framed tintype, Swarovski crystals and black onyx beads. Congratuations, Alice. Alice is a jewelry designer herself. Be sure to pay her website a visit and see her treasures.

Dawn Binyon will receive the colorful necklace featuring a pair of vintage dice embraced in a sterling silver case. I also invite you to visit Dawn's blog to see the crafty things she has been up to. Congratulations, Dawn!!!

Christmas is a grand time of year and I love getting together with friends, giving and celebrating our blessings and family. Today I am decorating our tree and how nostalgic it is to go through the boxes of ornaments we have collected throughout the years. It's like hanging sweet memories on the tree.

Whatever tradition you embrace, I wish you all a joy-filled Christmas, happy Hanukkah or Kwanza! Remember that your soulful flame burns brightly. Share your Love and warmth with others and watch the Light return.

I am going to take a break from blogging until after the holidays so that I can devote my time to enjoying the beauty around me, the joy and contentment of family and friends and be so ever grateful for the abundance in my life.

Joyful, Joyful, Joyful

Hugs

Diana

Santa's Elf

2009-12-13T21:55:00.000-08:00

~gift bag~

I have been playing Santa's little elf during the last few days and have been having so much fun. With my little red elf's outfit complete with hat, turned-up buckle shoes and red tights......oops wait a minute, I'm getting mixed up with a movie I just watched...... okay now focus, Diana!

Today I designed the little gift bag above to hold a piece of my jewelry for a friend. These little bags are a great way to repurpose those bits of fabric, lace, ribbon, paper, vintage millinery pieces, buttons, etc. you haven't known what to do with.

~gift tags~

Then it was time to create some artful gift tags. I have a set of the 12 days of Christmas rubber stamps and featured each day on a manilla tag. I first aged my tag by distressing the edges with a tool that was in a distressing kit by Making Memories...for the life of me now, I can't remember the name of it. You could also use sandpaper or an exacto knife to rough up the edges. I then stamped my tag using a sheet music stamp. Using acrylic paint in an ivory tone, I brushed a thin layer of paint over the stamped sheet music. Taking a baby wipe, I wiped off just enough of the paint to expose some of the sheet music below. Then I stamped the 12 days of Christmas images onto tea dyed water color paper with black ink. I tore each image out and distressed the edges with Tim Holtz's distress inks. With matte medium, I attached each image to the tags. The crown image was then stamped in place as well as the "To" and "From" on the reverse. Using my eyelet setter, I set a gold eyelet in the center of each crown. I love my gold leaf pen... which I used to highlight the edges of each tag. Gold boullion (a fine gold metal thread from my floral design days) was then wrapped around each tag.

~close up of a wrapped gift in which I incorporated a heart shaped stone~

~Christmas Card~

Christmas cards were next on my list and I had fun layering images, fabric, inks, ribbon and gold thread.

I have had time to design some jewelry as well...here is a pair of earrings in which I used etched brass, brass findings and a vintage cut glass jewel.

And I finally had time to secure all of my charms to my bracelet. This bracelet is a sample for the class "A Charming Romance" Riki Schumacher and I will be teaching Feb. 6 & 7 and then again April 10 & 11 on the beautiful central coast of California. See complete information on this class in a recent post and in the sidebar under Teaching. This class will cover many techniques: pmc, etching, cold connections, embossing and more. Class size is limited and spaces are filling up already. Email me if you should like to join us (belladonna1351@charter.net). Riki and I would love to have you.

I know that the holidays can be so very hectic and stressful. But amongst all of the FA LA LA LA, it is so important for me to keep focused on the true meaning of the season and hold LOVE in my heart and gratitude for the gift of HOPE Christmas brings.

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On another note, only two more days before the drawing for the two winners of my holiday GIVEAWAY. Be sure to leave a comment and your email address on my last post if you would like to be included. Good luck!

Happy Holidays!

Diana