BrokeNeckStudio

Learning To Merge Into The Fast Lane...

2011-11-16T08:13:00.001-08:00

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2654746055773

Second Saturday Still Hopping!

2011-08-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

I was out and about last night for the Second Saturday ArtHop, even if I did get out a little late! I was Disappointed that I did not get to have a Spot on the Hop with my show at the Bohemian Art Loft, but alas, it is the"Traveling Bohemians" after all! They had an out of town performance so they could not be open last night! What a bummer for me...

Anyhoo...We didn't get started until almost 7, so we went straight over to the Gallery 833, which is always our "kick off" point for Hopping, then we work our way back across town! As always, Dennis Halkides and his Gracious family had a Wonderful Show in full swing! The guest Artist was very sweet and had some very nice pieces, but the "833" moment of the night for me, I have to say, was a new picture in his Gallery of the Jewish Cemetery in Prague, as he told me the story, it took my breath away! What a powerful image, very haunting and memorable... I also want to comment on what a spectacular table of Tid-Bits they had, I especially Loved the pickled Asparagus!!! Oh Yum!! I still miss Ann & Jeanette, I was thinking of them...I swear... :)

Since we lingered too long at 833, we made a mad dash for the Vintage and could barely squeeze through, in fact we didn't, I plan on going in next week to see the Artwork! What to say, they remain a staggering favorite on the course!

We were bent on making it to the "Empty Lot" event at the Corner of Market &amp; Shasta Streets, put on by a WHOLE lot of People... Ashley Wagar, Tyler Faires, Ben George, Mike Cruz, Brent Van Auken, Wesley Jensen, Sheena Rae George, C.d. Tomcat, Emily Applekamp, Amanda Honeycutt and I have to say IT ROCKED!! I met lots of People and Artists that I only knew on Facebook, like "The Good Stuff Girl", "Dark Pony Designs" and more! Thank youze Guyze, I hope you do it again!!

Then, walking on the rocks gave me multiple Herky-Jerkys and I had to leave...

We still had a blast and I can't wait till the next!! :)

"Till Then And Now" Show Opens With A Crowd!!

2011-08-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, Okay, so it was a SMALL crowd...but it was big for ME!! I think I had about 25-30 people come through!! YAYAY! :) I was very excited to see so many people come! I had plenty of new pieces, so even the people that have seen some of my pieces at other Venues got to see something new!! I am very happy with the Direction my new work is going, but last nights show was a cross section of works I created long before my injuries and what I have done recently!

I have several new canvases I want to start working soon as well as I am putting up new canvases soon! I will be doing new canvases next week, while I still have enough heat and sun to "Cure" them! So I will be hoping for and looking forward to doing yet another show soon!! :)

I made a "Antipasto Pasta Salad" that grew and grew like a stone soup that ended up big enough to serve a small army though, so even with my Great turnout, I took Plenty Home!!

I'm Just Necking Along Now!!

2011-07-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Yes! Wapaw! I got my Gallery Cards done yesterday!! YAY! I am just going crazy trying to get everything ready for my upcoming show! I am very excited, but also struggling my Azz Off! :(
I have definitely been taking my physical limitations to new measure! My G-Kids think I should do a video of me painting while having a Herky-Jerky! Although, I do not technically Paint While I am having one, I always stop...it would be a (funny?) interesting video! :) I wonder what kind of music I could put that to? Hmmm... imjstkidding...noreally...

Look "Who" Is In The Mix!!

2011-07-18T13:26:00.000-07:00

http://www.redding.com/events/2011/aug/03/10517/

ME! I am now beaming!! I am going to have my very own Solo Show right here in Lovely Redding, Ca. at the Bohemian Art Loft, 3304B Bechelli Lane!!! YAY! I hope to see a lot of friends, all friends whether real or imagined!! I am going to have a drawing for one of my Paintings, so even if you do not make it to the Opening of "Til Then And Now", Please try to come by, the show will be up through August! The Bohemian Art Loft is truly a wonderful little Gallery that always features a ton of local artists, handmade jewelry, cards, prints and more! Plus the Owners Nadia and Peter are Delightfully sweet, ready to greet you and very Exuberant about what they Do! :)

Another Hopping Good Saturday!

2011-07-10T17:52:00.000-07:00

I was out in full force last night with a Carload! LOL! I got out late, had the Grand kids in tow and the rush was on! :)

We started out at the North Valley Art League where I was looking for Pam Bennett! She was the featured Artist and had a couple of her Very Big Paintings there, that she worked entirely in Grey Scale! They were fantastic, nearly photographic looking! It was Very Impressive! Also up is the current Members Show “Daze of Summer”! Their hors d'oeuvres were nice, complete with somebody's Home Made lemon Squares and Tasty Shrimp!

Then we were off to the Old City Hall (SCAC) where they have a awesome Show Called "The Natural Step", highlighting the theme of natural form and features the works of a lot of excellent local Artists! I have to admit that I have a special weakness for a good Baked Brie, so I found myself lingering a tad too long at the Tid-Bit Table!

Following the horrendous parking issue I had, we finally made our way to Leatherby's Creamery! They were featuring the work of one of my Favorite Groups the "Artistic Endeavors"! I love the stuff they bring in, it is always fresh, well executed and presented very well!

We rushed to get over to see my Artist friend Raette Meredith doing an exuberant demonstration at the "Redding City Ballet Company", she is always putting herself out there for her demonstrations and is forever inspiring to everyone that watches, which is definitely the case this time! :)

We finished off the evening by dropping in at the "Viva Downtown" to see some nice Photographic works on Canvas then across the street to my Favorite End Spot "Vintage Wine Bar" where an old Favorite Gene Knaebel had a really fantastic body of works featuring Photos on Canvas of Murals from the Coit Tower in San Francisco!

All in all it was a really great Hop Night and I hope we can get out a little earlier next month though! :0

Neck Brief; Arachnoiditis and Action Myoclonus with Generalized Dystonia

2011-06-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

In late September of 2006 I injured myself while repairing my daughters Truck! To make the longest story brief, I am too short and too round to reach into the engine compartment, so, I went in and retrieved a chair from the dining room. Almost every time I applied heavy torque to the wrench, it would throw off my fulcrum point and the chair would flip out backwards; I would pitch forward and then be left straddling the front end! This actually occurred several times spread out over 3-4 hours and the whole ordeal was quite the fiasco! Breaking wires, banging my head, smashing fingers, the balancing act and the busted parts! Sometime during this circus act, my whole right side, from the breastplate down, went numb and I just figured I must have hit a nerve and it would get better after some rest! Some days later I was rushed into surgery where they were desperate to see if I could be brought back from what was nownearly complete paralysis due to a pair of burst cervical vertebrae.

After a 7 hour ACDF at C4-7 with a Titanium VBR C5&6, I can walk again! Hip-Hip- Hooray! Smile, SMILE! But, I still have some problems. I am completely numb on the outside from my right armpit, across the breast line, straight down dead center of my body, all the way to my toes. EVERYTHING there is numb on the outside and it feels weird and awkward, then there is of course, the high voltage electricity that runs along the same said course on the inside. It is exactly the same thing as when you sit too long in one position and your butt and/or leg goes to sleep and then when you stand up, it feels "dead" and the communications to the brain aren't making it and so the "messages" are just going haywire and feels like you are "electrified", It feels like the noise made in the power lines along side the railroad tracks. I am like one of those Orbs at the Fair that have electrical "Lightning" on the inside and when you touch it the zapping moves all around! Most of the time it is a low voltage, it is just a low buzzing hum and then at other times it really starts cracking, snapping and popping! Then, every once in awhile it randomly sends a jolt so strong, it can knock the air out of me like falling out of a tree. The one thing it does NOT Do however is Go Away! No, It never EVER STOPS, it keeps on buzzing 24/7, never ending electrical zingers!! The level is the only thing that changes, it fluctuates in "waves" like one of those "Bio-Charts" of the 70's you could get for 25c at the Arcade! Meet "Archnoiditis”, no, it is NOT a fear of spiders…

Externally? On the skin? Nope, no feeling, none, gone are the Cutaneous Receptors; can’t feel a thing, scrapes, cuts, bites or sting, no not even heat nor cold! However I do have some whacked out, seriously out of control, overactive, "Proprioceptors" to terrorize me! If I do something or “experience” anything that “sets off” or “triggers” a proprioceptive response, it begins a “Storm” of uncontrollable muscular (Action Myoclonus w/ Generalized Dystonia) and nerve firing that we simply call the “Herky- Jerkys”! My entire body convulses in a horrendous spasmodic episode that (when going full bore) essentially feels like I’m having a Baby while being Tazored! This is usually centered in/or around my (still) numb right lower quadrant. The firing and zapping can come in various ways, such as rapid sparks that causes just small "jerking" responses in one or two areas like the thigh or side, or it can zap and grab causing a total body spasm like a giant "charlie horse" "locking" me up either front or back , with an Rythmic change up, so that I feel like I am being ripped apart. They usually only last a couple to few minutes or so but on occasion, I have had some last up to 20, depends on what I was doing that brought it on! It always reminds me of what that film “Hell-raiser” looks like it might feel, with all those “meat hooks” tearing through and ripping the flesh, only for me it is on the inside instead! I sometimes scream...but I try not to, it really upsets people! Having a baby (10), (severe) Herky Jerky (9.5), gallstone attack (9), Tatoo on inner/upper thigh (8)! Eventually, the zapping will gradually subside like a tuning fork, slowly fading away, then just as I catch my breath, the “burning lava” starts pouring through my body along the entire right side, feeling EVERY inch, this is where "selective memory" allows you to live through to the next episode...

These spasmodic episodes (HJs) are totally unpredictable. What brings one on in one instance doesn’t necessarily mean the same thing will bring it on every time. Some days I can get away with doing a lot of things and often push, then, there are days that the Current is very high and It can be triggered by anything; getting hot, a shiver, stepping on an uneven surface, showering, clothes that rub me or are too tight, lifting something the wrong way, bumping into anything, even as light as the wind or just someone touching me! Shivering or being nervous, I have even started from eating ice cream a couple of times! I can just be lying there asleep and something will turn up my “voltage” and wake me up, BAM, within 1-2 minutes something, even just the blanket will “trigger” it, or I simply start "Dreaming" I am having one just to awake and find out I am! Simple everyday events can become horrendous ordeals! Putting on my socks might mean a 10 minute passage through Hades! I live my whole life in between these episodes. How many I have per week generally depends on my level of stubbornness and persistence at trying to do things, but I guess on average I have between 15-20 pretty considerable ones and maybe another 25 not so bad. Every once in a while, I’ll have a REALLY bad day and have HJs all day, some little, some medium, with a couple of bigger ones thrown in for good measure. On these days I end up just staying on the sofa, chair or anywhere trying not to move. I never reallyknow when one is going to happen, but sometimes I can tell my voltage meter turns way up, then it is just a matter of hold on, find a spot! Occasionally, I even get away without a full HJ and will just get a few jolts!

I can just barely bend over, pick up or carry anything more than a loaf of bread, pushing or pulling is skeptical at best and anything over my head is out of the question! Before the surgery my left arm was in permanent state of contraction, like a chicken claw. So now, even though I can use it freely, it still wants to “Pop” back into that contraction. It just hangs back, right at the edge, so I can get away with a significant amount of “activity” with that hand, but if I try to hold onto something a little too long, with a little too much force or just in an odd position, it will just go “snap” right into a “Charley Horse”. My right arm has a rhythmic “dance” to perform during most Episodes! I must be very careful because my legs can and will sometimes just not do what I think they are supposed to be doing. Then of course the added bonus of having an outright full blown HJ if I stumble or fall! If I am out in public this will alwaysresult in someone wanting to call an ambulance. When I fall, I just try to aim towards something soft, a sofa or chair, at least the carpet! I will generally end up on the floor a couple of times a month, by just not paying attention and “whump”, there it goes! I have trouble sitting for very long at a time because my side will start burning like fire; the insides start jumping around like I have teeny tiny firecrackers going off up and down my whole right side. I must say that my honey is not very happy these days either. Not only the huge shift of extra chores, but putting up with EVERYTHING comes all right back onto him!!

I cannot seem to tolerate the drugs for much of anything, they never do anything for the pain anyway and I can’t live with the side effects of all that crap, mostly the dizziness, constipation and nausea thing! They piled those prescriptions on, I had some prescriptions to fight the side effects of some of the medication! Really? They didn't even WORK!! I have had real issues with pain pills and bowel problems before in my life, it wasn't long before THAT cycle was just as unbearable as my illness... that the drugs were not helping anyway!! I also am intolerant of the “groggy zombie” feeling! I'm not sure that actually qualifies as LIVING anyway... Even though I tried quite a few Pharms like Neurotin, Lyrica, Baclofin and so many others… I quit, it never turned off the “Electricity” or stopped the HJ’s! I do take a Valium and a muscle relaxer once in awhile, I primarily rely on Teas and my Herbs! I am a Certified MMJ and an admitted PotHead! I do not really intend to justify my use, it works for me, … even if anyone else "thinks" it does not, THEY are not living inside MY body and I DO, so there! I do not propose that it has or will 'cure' me, there is NO CURE FOR THIS! The only thing that can be done for me is to try to mask the symptoms, up to and including morphine! I do not believe I am better off strung out on Morphine than Happily using my MMJ and living life, still doing something, not a zombie laying in bed waiting to die! It does not Cure me, Fix anything or perform any miracles but at the very minimum…I do NOT CARE AS MUCH!! My preferred method is to Vaporize, as this is the best medicinal delivery available at this time! I also use it in oils, tinctures, butter and edibles! Yes, I AM HIGH ON POT, instead of the 16-25 pills a day of Pharmacopia I was on before…that didn’t work anyway…but were eating my insides away...

I cannot achieve my level of previous life activities, because she was a whole other person. I can do very little unassisted in the kitchen, lifting pans is really hard and cooking normally amounts to me barking orders at someone else, who is really not so happy about helping me in the first place. I am ashamed that so many of my meals are ready made these days, it is too hard and also the financial burden of not being able to work often leaves me without being able to lay in the basics! Laundry is just joke, I can’t carry more than 2 or three things at a time, if at all, then pulling things out of the washer or dryer can be very provocative to a HJ too! My husband now shoulders both His job & Mine! I can only go shopping when someone else is available to take me AND if there is an electric cart available. Many trips to the grocery store have been aborted because there was not a cart available. A lot of stores and shops I can’t even go to at all anymore because I can’t walk that far and also most anyone with me is petrified I may have a HJ. They are pretty embarrassed to say the least, I have been told by people that were starled and surprised about my condition, that I should stay home and not put "strangers" through that!! I hate that feeling on my own, much less them to SAY IT!

Harder yet is that I can no longer work or earn a living! Besides the money problems, it is gut wrenching not to be able to pick up and use my tools, not in the kitchen, nor in the shop. I can’t operate a drill, grab a staple gun, use a saw or hammer. Just holding my own arms up is very difficult so I can just barely hold anything up to sew at the machine, then the other day, sewing a button by hand took me about 20 minutes because I had to stop 3 times. My life as Ms. Fix it is over, so now I am striving to create “art”. I refuse to sit like a zombie in front of the boob tube and vegetate, so I paint and draw, write and sew when I can tolerate sitting, and piddle with various forms of other handcrafts that can be readily picked up and put down. My husband even helps me when it comes to that because you would be surprised how much "labor" there is in "ART"!

Before, my life was a very physically propelled world. I was an Upholsterer, Seamstress, Artist and could for an army of people, avid co-op gardener, out-door enthusiast, fanatical do-it-yourselfer and even be a mechanic when one was needed! I loved hiking, boating, working with my hands, could whip up a meal for 10 people in an instant, “run out” after $200.00 worth of groceries, fix and repair nearly any household disaster, operate most any type of tool and even held a commercial drivers license! My idea of a good time was a tag sale and run at the flea market! Now the order of life is… no bending, stooping, twisting, lifting, carrying or pulling! I used to be a hero, now I am just a zero! I owned a little Toyota, but it is a stick shift and I cannot push and pull effectively enough to shift and left me terrified I would have a HJ behind the wheel, plus It is very hard to turn my head enough to look over my shoulder. So it is extremely hard for me to get around, I almost always have to rely on somebody else to be with me! There are not too many things I can do on my own and I had a very limited social life to begin with, now, is nearly non-existent!

At least I can try to do something in between the spurts of dealing with the demons! I am desperatly trying to find a way to help out financially and help to provide some kind of income! Now, I have been trying to sew some as well as sell my paintings! I am so grateful to be walking and using my arms, able to live life, that I feel ashamed to complain about my whinny aches and pains. I know that some people would gladly tolerate my quibbling pains just to be mobile again! Still, I must admit, that it is VERY depressing and I struggle not to despair daily. I try to think of positive things and look for ways to be functional in between.

If you are reading this, then Thank-You! May only positive energy flow through your life!

The Fair Is In Town! The Fair Is In Town!

2011-06-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

Oh How I Love The FAIR!! I will be there, out and about looking at all the wonderful wares! I am soooo Happy to live so close, it feels Extra Special That Way, like I'm out visiting with my Neighbors! :)

See you there! :)

Keep Local Talent "MOOoving" And That's No "Bull"!

2011-05-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

I love it when Local Artists Break out and do something so Clever and Lively!

This local young talent Artist Kong Souriyavong has been busy on several projects around town and is really putting out some 'Moooving" work! HAHAHA! I hope to see even more of his good works soon, I believe he is also doing a Mural at the Anderson Teen Center as well!

So, I can't wait to catch him in action soon and see what else he has working!
Remember, Keep It Local!

Great Music, Shamrock Style Pulled Pork & A Little Rain!

2011-04-23T18:45:00.000-07:00

What a great way to finish of a wonderful day here in Redding, on a slightly rainy day, enjoying the fine offerings of being out and about in Redding ! I started out at the The Annual Redding Whole Earth And Watershed Celebration, but made it a point to finish off my Day-trip over at the Shamrock Cafe, where my friend Mark Loring was rocking the Block lining up some fine Music and attracting the crowds where he was plying some really Awesome BBQ Tri-Tip and Pulled Pork!

Wow! I barely caught a glimpse of Feral Farm,

but you know they were a real crowd pleaser, they have a history! I don't know who let Cirtus wear a Security Shirt, what were they thinking? LOL! :) I also caught some more groovy tunes that ended out with a group called Magic Bus! Yay!

Mark has it going on now setting up his BBQ, even going to be out at the Harlot Show in Anderson coming up in May near my neck-o-the woods!! I know he has been busy and working hard, so I am glad to see he is going strong!

Studio Smells Like Paint!

2011-04-04T13:43:00.000-07:00

I can't help it! Even though I still don't have any "official" place for things to dry I had to paint SOMETHING!! HaHaHA! I only put down a couple of colors...it won't take much for that layer to dry! :)

Sunshine Driving Me To Start Slinging Something

2011-03-31T18:24:00.000-07:00

Around in the Studio that is! I have about 4 Canvases that are just itching for a start! I lost my drying rack over the Winter, so now I am going to have to wing it until I can go get me another! Plus, coming soon is the Pecha Kucha Night! I am already working on my presentation and I am nervous but it should be a Blast!

What Is Going On In The Studio?

2011-03-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

"Paradiso" Original Framed 9"x12" $275

Today I am trying to tie up some projects that have been dragging on Wayyy tooo looong and get it Outta Here! :)

So, up first, the finishing touches to this Custom Upholstered Frame I made for this Original Acrylic Painting, named "Paradiso", in honor of my friend that liked it...that will possibly end up owning it? IDK

Right now it is for sale! $275 It is not on display anywhere, it is still on my easel awaiting the power tool wielding Hunny to attach the hangers! :)

Sundial Film Festival Had A Big "Breakdown"!

2011-03-21T13:56:00.000-07:00

At least that was the Film that took #1 for the Night! LOL! It was a rousing hand of applause when things went "Splat" for the Lady(?) of the film!! Josh McHale of L.A. took home the Big Prize!! :)
Apparently we are still awaiting the People's Choice Award Tally, so keep in touch here... Sundial Film Festival

There were numerous faces I recognized, although I could not get through the Sea Of People to touch bases with most of them! Yay! That is a Great thing to see Soooo many people out having a blast involved with the Arts in Redding!

But... what an awesome time we had out and about at the Festival! I got to see Jeff Loveness again! I have been following him since the First SFF when he won for his short called "Profiles Are Lovely"! What a doll he is... his (2011) short film "Contact" was very thought provoking and another Classic! Now that he is officially a Grad from Pepperdine University I can't wait to see him fly!! :)

Sundial Film Festival Excitedly Anticipated!

2011-03-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

I wish there was a sticker! I used to love those stickers people handed out for promos! Annoying as hell, but boy sometimes they could Really Stick Around! :)
I would be getting my 3rd one this year!
Hey, I voted, Did You? :)

Rumors Are Rumors... ArtHop Is Still Rockin!

2011-03-14T10:48:00.000-07:00

I know I have heard here and there that the Arthop (Will, Has) dropped off because Troy and Adam have been making moving plans, but I have to say I Don't Think So! I think they have really laid the groundwork and that it will survive and keep going strong however it is handled!

I was shoulder to shoulder in the crowds at Gallery 833, owned and operated by Dennis Halkides, located on Misteltoe! It was a lively bunch, with a couple of the Artists on hand fielding questions and talking about their work! I was delighted to see Barbara Enochian there, awesome collage work presented, I did get to see her for just a moment before she was swept away! One of my friends was absolutely delighted to meet and talk with the Artist responsible for the Cool Steel Fish along the new stretch of 44, John Streeby and talked his ear of for about 1/2 an Hour! It was very exciting and as my new official Arthop Kickoff point, since the Infinite Designs is now history, I did not have a hard time choosing, as I am a sucker for good Wine & Cheese of which Dennis and his Family have been providing since their opening! I was partial to Jeanette and Ann though... miss them much...

Anyhoo... so off to a Hopping good time, we ran through as many as we could, Vintner's, NVAL, Carnegies (which apparently does not have a web), and Vintage, meeting and greeting heavily along the way! There were plenty of crowds and a lot of people having a great time, no fizzle here! :) I am not sure where the After Party wound up, but we ended the Evening at the ever wonderful Tapas, sharing a piece of Delectable Delightful Cod and a final glass of Red! Owner, Brad graciously patient as we hung on endlessly... :) Thank you & Ohh-LaLa, here is to the next Hop! :)

Fabulous & Fun! February ArtHop Fans Find Rambling, Rolling & Rocking Good Times!

2011-02-13T12:34:00.000-08:00

I am so exhausted from being out and about last night that I am ELATED! WooHoo! I really had a great time, even though it was a "Bon Voyage" for my great Buds over there at Infinite Designs! That part SUCKS! But hey, go over there and check out the great deals (Hilltop plaza, across from Country Kitchen!) as they close their doors, get to know a couple of great people and find out about their great upcoming ventures! WeLoveYouzGuyzMan! :0

Anyhoo... I started out the evening at the Party happening for the Grand Opening of a New And Awesome little Tattoo place, on Bechelli, right close to Cypress and Bechelli! Bombshell Tattoo & Body Peircing! They had an awesome beat hitting the pavement out Front called "Sawyer Family" I have to say they were definatly Rocking The Shitz Outta That Crowd! :) It was packed out there, you couldn't get near the staging area! I was thanking The Placard for my parking as they were WAYYY down the street, around the block! Block Party was ON! I am sure it was pleasing to the Ladies in the Parlor, they seemed to be having a Grooving GOood TIme while I was skulking around!

I have to say though, that one of the Highlights of the event for me was Meeting "The Redding Roller Girls"! OMG, I was so blown away! I freaking love these guys! Okay, so it was only a couple of the ladies, but it is so weird meeting people in person after you only see them online! First off I am talking to one Lovely Lady and I turn around, there is the Redding Roller Girls Head Coach Kandi KutThroat! Heyyyy!!! Bam! These Ladies are sooo awesome! As a youth, I was inspired by the likes of Raquel Welch in a BlockBuster Movie "Kansas City Bombers"! So for me, I just grin ear to ear as I see these "Super Women" in Persona! I can't wait to drag my Grandkids down to see a scrimage with these Marvelous Powerful Women! Inspiring!

After peeling myself away from The Bombshell, I made my way to Infinite Designs where I knew I was saying goodbye to my favorite place! The Ladies there always have such an awesome attitude, wonderful people and great Artists, a shop FULL of Wonderful gifts and Goodies as well as a spectacular spread of tasty TREATS!! A greeting, like your really welcome, makes you feel special and they are always ready to show you their treasures and "Brag" for their Artists! I am so going to miss these wonderful ArtHop Hosts! Ursula was there with her Hand Made Artistic Jewelry Pieces that always call out to an inner need to touch something beautiful and natural...as if it helps to ground you and feel peace! She is just one of many Artists that will be fanning out looking for new Venues to share their work! Also, Meeting Tommy Corey, the Master Mind Behind the Now Infamous Self Worth Project was an absolute delight! His ideas and thinking are young, honest and feel ...right!

Bye-Bye Wonderful Ladies of Infinite Designs, we will miss you but may the Goddess Of Great Fortune Shine Her Light Down To You On Your Journey's In Life!

Then after having way too much fun at the Fabulous Infinite Designs, I made my way down to the Gallery on Mistletoe known as the Gallery 833. The Gallery Owner, a very nice Gentleman, Dennis Halikides, always has some spectacular pieces of his own that he keeps fresh and shows off his keen eye and great taste! He specializes in printing "Giclee" and I would love to find out more about that process sometime! He also has a knack for always having guest artists with a very special touch for what they do and this month was no exception in " Cara Morgan", who's Pastel and Pencil works were absolutely mesmerizing and made me look several times as I thought them photographic!

After making my way across town, almost out of time, I barely made my way over to the "Oregon Street Antiques" where my Favorite Local Watercolor Genius, Howard "Luke" Lucas was doing a LIVE DEMO! Always a delight to watch him work! He has contributed to more young minds in the Artworld than can be counted! He says he has done 79 of his "Paint Free Be Free" Events and after he has done his 100th he will do no more! OMG! What a loss that will be!

A quick cruise through Tapas to catch an attractive show by Artist Nanci Sackett, as always very beautifully rendered pieces, proving her talents of hand eye vision and precise execution! I even saw Troy Hawkins there enjoying some tidbits and friendly atmosphere as I made my way through to end the evening with a very nice Red on Ice (which I know just kills everyone) at the Vintage! I have to dig more and come out with a part two for the show at Vintage, where the Shasta High Advanced Students Show was a RAGING hit! Some really awesome Talents coming out there!

Shasta High Advanced Students

City Hall Bio

2011-02-06T13:20:00.000-08:00

In 2006 I was given a second chance at life! After an accident left me nearly paralyzed, I was saved by the grace of God and a gifted Neurosurgeon! With the help of my devoted Husband I have been able to turn to my Art as a means of living recovery!

As a child I easily drew “Tippy Turtle” and other “Match Book” Art course challenges but squandered any natural talent as I grew easily bored with the tediousness of “practice”. Rendering dogs, horses, flowers and trees was boring and I soon lost interest and let it slip by. Then, in College, I returned to the Arts to pursue a few skills when I was introduced to “Expressionism & Abstract Concepts”! I found myself charged with fascination, interest and admiration! Marc, Kandinsky, Klee and so many other great artists fired my imagination and inspired me with ideas and freed my inner restraints! With renewed energies and efforts, I entered several and won a couple of Art competitions! During this time, I also put two paintings in a County Fair and was pleased and surprised to win both First and Second place!

As my life unfolded, although I kept Art in my heart and dabbled whenever I could, we owned and operated a small business and the ongoing daily responsibilities left little time for artistic endeavors! However, now recovering and relearning to live life, I am blessed to be able to regain some abilities and explore Art once again! My Husband a driving force, my painting has become therapy, forcing me physically and mentally to push my limits and expand my capabilities! Producing pieces again after so many years of “Artful” neglect, I recently decided to enter a couple of paintings in the County Fair and was delighted to place both First and Second once again!

I like to say my paintings are “Directional Abstracts” because I generally start with an idea, inspiration or intentional thought. Then, I just allow the process to take over and lead me! Primarily, I use Acrylics and love to play with color, materials, techniques and styles. I experiment constantly, following one idea with another to see where it leads me! Lately, my work has begun to be more dimensional as I use different fabrics, pastes, brushes, rollers, sculpting gadgets and even some kitchen utensils! Sometimes, even requiring my Husband to handle the “Heavy” work!

Each one of my pieces has its own story and personality, with its own style, idea or unique concept! I enjoy the process of getting there, most requiring numerous steps, so that each one is an accomplishment and an achievement! I am hopeful my art will bring something unexpected, surprising or even insightful to the observer! If it makes you feel good, smile, ponder or just pause in wonder, I feel like my Art has hit its mark!

This show is a representation of a broad spectrum of my works which includes one of my original First place winners “Midnight Windows” up to the very latest pieces such as “Origins” and “Autumnal Carnivale” that reflects some of my newest techniques using handmade canvases and mixed media!

City Hall Show Reception Was A Fantastical Whirlwind!!

2011-02-01T14:32:00.000-08:00

Herky-Jerky

First off, I have to say how blown away I was at how many of my FaceBook Friends came! Whoop-Whoop! Wow*Wow*Wow! I cannot even begin to name all the names because I know for a fact that I missed a few as I looked up and just caught a glimpse of someone in the fray without getting a chance to take heed of them! I feel really bad about that, so, if you are reading this and I was unable to acknowledge you, please accept my apologies! I was just a little overwhelmed a couple of times, I was not able to keep up! I am not complaining by any means, I was having a blast, but I did not mean to shirk anyone!

I had several highlights of the evening, friends from afar, (Humbolt), old friends, new friends and even my personal Super Hero Nuero Surgeon Dr. Page! YAY! It just so happens that the picture they chose to put in the brochure"Herky-Jerky", was the sister painting to the one that I painted for and gave to her when I left her care, called "Fiet De Exis"! I actually liked the painting I had done for her, so I decided I wanted to do one for myself using the same ideas! Then when I finished it, I decided that it perfectly brought to visionary life the feeling (Herky-Jerky) of my unusual condition of Myoclonic Dystonia!

I was even given gifts! How could I go wrong! Blessings from far away, lots of local friends and My Favorite Local Folk singers Craig and Erin Friedman are "Still Married", with Erin bringing me some lovely goodies and belting out a few wonderful tunes! Of course, from my perch up on the 3rd floor I could really barely hear anything, but I caught wind a few times! I did get to hear the "Pine Dogz", Steve and Diana Willis, when I managed to get away for a few minutes to catch some of those great nibbles they had out for the refreshments!!

My 'BGB' Guy Haley, a notoriously famous local muralist and fellow FB fiend, I mean friend, came by to harass me and snap a few shots! At least he didn't show up in full on body paint! Cause I was half scared he might! We should do a publicity shot of that huh?!! ") I had such a wonderful time, saw so many great people, got to talk about my art for hours, to people that LISTENED and handed out almost 200 Gallery Cards! I felt like I was famous or something! :)

WooHoo!

City Hall Reception A Wink Away! AARRGGHHHH!!!

2011-01-27T09:33:00.000-08:00

I know that the pieces have been hanging all week, but now I have to go stand NEXT to them and show my face! I couldn't even go to the last show I had my (1) painting hung in because I felt out of place, so now the terror of having 12 of them, right there, all up in the public face and all, really has the bats a'flappin! Time to "Soldier up", I can take it!

Of course, first sign of someone about to light a torch... I am sooo outta there....

Redding City Hall Artist's Reception During Cultural Cruise!

2011-01-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

City Hall Show Looms Large! EEEEKKKK!!!

2011-01-17T10:17:00.000-08:00

As the day is nearly upon me to show up for the installation of the largest collection ever assembled of my Artwork I am terrified beyond belief!

I have to keep reminding myself that even if they hate it they will not burn me at the stake! ( I believe they made it illegal to assault entertainers!)

I'm beginning to question the wisdom of using my real name! Should I have a pseudo? Dammit I Say!

The sheer adventure of preparing myself and my children, oh, I mean paintings has been a whole new set of challenges! Before, when I had one or two paintings to put in a show or enter it was only a moderate question as to the framing. Now multiplying that times 12! I am nearly ragged beating my brain to do what I have never done before! Frame, frame, frame!

Last night as I was ready to collapse from all of it, I had to giggle as I was unable to stop myself from quoting one of my favorite lines from a Goldie Hawn Classic "Overboard", "BluB-BluB-BLub-blUBB-BluuB--Blubb-blub-blluubb...."

Favorite Doesn't Always Mean The "Nicest", Just Favored!

2010-11-30T13:26:00.000-08:00

I was contemplating a quip from my Hunny, in his usual way of telling me he loves me he says "When we get rich I am going to buy you all new kitchen stuff! Things that actually MATCH!!" He often curses my propensity to like things that are not considered "Uniform"! I of course am always eager to give him my response of how much I love my miss-matched life and it doesn't matter if I have co-ordinated utensils or not, they are all my FAVORITES!! I have been accumulating the CRAP in my kitchen for over 20 years! I use almost everything in this picture on a VERY regular basis!

In fact, this picture is featuring a very unique point of view! If you will notice, almost everything in this picture is DIRTY!! Yep, right out of my kitchen sink!! As I decided to take a picture of all my favorite "Kitchen Essentials", I noticed something ironically funny, almost everything I find ESSENTIAL and would rescue if I had a chance to be forewarned of pending doom, was already dirty and waiting to be cleaned! I pulled very few things out of the drawer for this modeling session!

Included here is the Butcher Block that I rolled down the road on the sidewalk to get it home. We were living on post, Fort Ord, when I bought it from a soldier relocating overseas. He really hated to get rid of it, but they had already made their weight, things had to go... I bought it for $10 but let them use it right up to the day they left! I have been rolling it around with me ever since 1990, several different homes even! Yet every time, it seems to have the perfect place to FIT right in!

Nearly every piece on this table has a story, just the way I like my inanimate objects! I should tell you my story about a towel sometime... :)

What Goes Up, Must Come Down! KaBlammm!

2010-11-17T08:58:00.000-08:00

I was feeling my oats when I stopped by to see a friend of mine, anxious to tell him about my recent glory moments! He does not compute, so I know I will surprise him and am feeling pretty audacious too! I have known this man for close to 30 years. I will say that most of our experience together has been on a professional level, but we have had a longstanding friendship too!

As I chat and carry on I finally tell him about being accepted as one of the Artist's to display at City Hall next year and he is astonished! While he congratulates me he is communicating his surprise as he did not really know I was an Artist! He knew that I had gone to College and taken Art courses and had been involved with Art when I lived in Monterey, but since he only knew me through work, my art had escaped him! I explained to him that I have been getting back to my Art because of my disabilities and that I have been trying to realign my life while recouping!

As we shared a glass of wine, I diligently dug my photos out of my purse and started showing him some of my works! As he looked at the pictures I saw amazement and awe on his face and became absolutely animated as I began to explain some of the different techniques and drawn out processes I would go through for each piece! I was eating it up, he seemed like he was genuinely interested as he scrutinized closely a couple of the pictures, then as he looks up at me he has a strange look and he forces a little "laugh". "You mean you did this shit on PURPOSE?" "You had a 'plan' for this?" "I thought it was like you just threw the paint and that's where it landed!"

PPPPPHHHHHHHHHTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!! I am soooooo deflated...........
maybe I can get my cat to walk on a couple of canvases for me......

I Am So Honored! I Was Picked To Display My Art In The Redding City Hall!!

2010-11-15T21:40:00.000-08:00

WooHoo! My head may inflate to the size if a blimp and My Hunny will have to Pop it to keep me from floating away!! I am so excited, nervous and actually a little freaked out!! It actually became official because I received my "Media and Artist Information" Packet! I believe I am positively giddy!! :)

Out And About Hopping Around!

2010-10-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

Oh I tried, I really did! I started out strong at Infinite Designs, visiting with Jeanette, Ann and several others including Presented Artist Ursula Guderian! Jeanette and Ann always have the greatest selection of pieces in their shop, aside from their own striking work, local artistry abounds and always causes me to linger longer than I intend! Throw in some delicious cheeses, very nice nibbles and a spot of good wine... well...!

Anyhoo, Ursula herself was sporting a magnificent piece she had just crafted that day, so it speaks in volumes about this young woman making her way with creative vigor! She has an uncanny ability to make something new look and feel like it should always have been. I predict she will be even more of a reckoning as she has been showing at a lot of events lately and is really in a groove!! :)

I then attempted to make my way down to the new Studio off Mistletoe Ln, I believe they were featuring one of my all time favorites, Raette Meredith, but I had to try out that new HWY 44 entrance off of Hilltop! Wow! Very nice!

I went straight over to the Shasta County Arts Council in the Old City Hall, there was quite a few people out and about too! It was actually pretty crowded when I went by there, but I still got into see the really "eye"mazing, mesmerizing work of Justin Simcik. His work accetuates the art of "control" and uniformity with unexpected outcome! I even eves dropped a little as he described his efforts in acheiving some of his most intriquing pieces! I can honestly say you can feel his excitement as he lights up about a piece! Carol Jenkins, the "contrasting" Artist on display, brought in the abstract emotional feeling of random movement and expression. Her work was wistful, dramatic and acheived the task of grabbing you and pulling you in to see more!

I finally made it to the Pacific West Graphics, I have circled the block on several occasions but never actually made it inside before! I was pleased to find photographer Denise Dethlefsen showing some of her work. I was amazed at the abstract purity in her works featuring the Cabrillo Lighthouse Lens close-ups! Wow, very inspirational!

I had gotten an early start hoping to make it to as many places as I could but unfortunately I didn't make it past the Great show at Carnagies! I ran into the artist, Shaun Smith, but his work really ran me over!! I was amazed at his colors and the way he made his subjects "Pop" with his composition and brushwork! I was inticed by a flavor of Gauguin! I was going to try to speak with the Artist, but I ended up trying to just make my way to the door as a Herky-Jerky was overtaking me and I barely made it to the car!

I really wanted to make it to the After party at Tapas Downtown where I hear Troy and Adam from Hawkman Studios was supposed to be hanging out by I had to make a bee-line home! Oh well, maybe next time! I had a great night if it though, even if it was cut a little short! I believe that most of the art is still hanging around, maybe I can get over there next week just to take a gander.

Party Volley From Meet-N-Greet To Sean Randalls Vintage Reception! Whew, I Score!

2010-09-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

I did not know if I would be able to pull it off, but I do think I made a pretty good shot at it! Of course the first thing that happens to me is the red flashing battery indicator light when I whip out my camera! **What can I say?**

First stop, just off of Caterpillar Rd, up at the top of Miracle Mile, I readily found the CARS shop. I didn't look for a sign indicating the event because I already generally knew where it was. Right away, I missed a great opportunity to get a couple of pictures of someones prized little goats visiting the event to help bring in flavor to a cute little "Barn Theme". I made the connection right away to the "western" taste because of my own 'roots' in dealing with a nearly exact "real life" version of the enormous (metal) diesel shop/ barn my Dad ran!! :) I spent a lot of time in that shop and so did plenty of animals too!! My Dad had a 50 gallon drum he had crafted into an enormous grill in which he would place an entire bag of coals and pile on the meat every Friday Night. This was done right out back of his shop and people came from all over to eat, drink and talk till well after hours!

I had missed the previous Meet-N-Greet arraigned by friends and associates on my FaceBook and was determined to make it this time! I arrived in time to enjoy a couple of Grilled Dogs, Cab on ice, a quick gab with a couple of old friends and a chance to meet a few new ones! (Yes, I felt all my "Wine" friends cringe when I said on ice! HaHaHAHA! Cass are you there?? :) I attended a "Sommelier" course(ette) and learned of my Faux Pas, but alas, too late, I was of youth during the "Riunite On Ice, That's Nice" campaign and cut my "wine teeth" with red wine on ice!) I even ran into Erin from Wrap-N-Pack making some connections too!! :)

Anyhow, I was happy to try to put names to faces and faces to names as well as just have a quick hob-nobs with some great people! There was a lot of energy in the crowd of more than 50 as I did a loose count, smiling faces and sharing of local stories, ideas and positive encounters! It reminded me of my own upbringing, where pretty much on a monthly basis there was some kind of "Barn" gathering for one thing or another in which most of the local families and who's who would attend. I do not know if this is just a rural thing but I still enjoy that type of atmosphere where you get a chance to meet the people associated with your livelihoods, families and communities! I do believe that these social events bond communities together in a way that a lot of modern generations don't understand.

There was some really positive and upbeat people passing around viable and tangible ideas and suggestions that usually means power in groups can bring success! Barb White, part of an all woman owned and operated business, CARS Smog And Auto, is proud to try and offer more service with a special touch to make their shop stand out! Some of the other people involved were also up to their eyeballs getting the whole thing put together and were such nice people and very busy but still managed to give me plenty of their time to fill me in! So big thanks go out to Victoria Curtiss, part of the CARS crew and a bona fide car nut with a concierge streak going on, Justin Iams working his Social Media Butterflies hard with cohort Kate Bourland and the Guy behind the grill who's name I never got!! Yee-Haww!! I was sorry to shimmy out early, I did enjoy it but I had to go chase after some ART!!

I hurriedly made my way south to hit the reception for Sean Randall. The story here is that I have tried to make a connection to one of his shows for over a year! Something always seems to get in the way or hold me up! I was determined to get there too! Naturally, something had to throw in a wrench, so I went to the wrong Wine Restuarant!! LoL! Well, at least the staff at the "Vintner's Cellars" were more than nice about sending me off in the right direction and were really nice about it too!!

I made it to the Vintage Wine Bar where Sean Randall was having his reception! Viola'! I did it! I made it there! I have to say, I am always amazed by his work. He has a perspective that catches you and draws you in! I have seen his work a few times and have even blogged a little about him before! Wow what a great showing of his work! I managed to talk to him for a minute and even got his autograph! Some fun! I especially love his huge painting called "...in the bucket" which really has an abstract feel but is clearly very realistic. I was not disappointed for the effort to get there!

I even managed to run into a few friends there too, so I can't pass up a chance to give out a nod to Troy and Adam from Hawkman Studios, finally making a connection with Ursula Guderian of FaceBook fame that really makes some awesome jewelry and then a lovely couple which turned out to also be local artists with some claim of fame as well!! Gene and Gwen Knaebal are both wonderful artists that have shown many works and been heavily envolved in our local arts!

Whew, what night! If I only had some pictures... :)

I Have An Almost Studio!

2010-09-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

I have a new roof, most of my stuff unpacked and will get my table put in tonight! I want to get some things done before the weather turns bad! I do not know exactly what I am going to do for my frames yet but I have confidence that I will find a way! :) I actually went out yesterday and mixed some prep and put up about 4 canvases!! If the weather holds hot, I could be painting by the first of the week!! It takes a few days for my canvases to "cure" before I can start putting paint on them, otherwise it won't "dry" at all!! (Yuck, what a mess that one was!!) LOL!

That is the price I pay for being an EXPERIMENTAL artist to begin with! HAHAHAHA!

I have so many things in my minds eye I feel like I am chomping at the bit!! YeeHaww! :)

Now if I can keep the wind from blowing my stuff away today, these will be ready for paint by Monday!

Raette Meredith Makes Mark In Murals!

2010-08-07T11:10:00.000-07:00

I have been a big fan of Raette for a long time! I met her some time ago in my "Art Life" (as my Hunny calls it...), so, I know I am just a little slanted here. But I did purchase a copy of a wonderfully published book of her "Fairies At Play" paintings! This series is some of my favorite works by this "colorful" and skilled artist! I just love the way she can bring you into another place with her work!

And, I have to say, especially with the personal artist inscription that she included will make it an even nicer gift for my Granddaughter that lives to love Faries as it is!

Anyhoo,
She is also doing some murals at my G-daughters soon to be High school, (again, am I biased?, oops my bad I guess), but I just Love Her Stuff!! :) I did go out and get some pictures of my own, but really, her own pictures from her own website are like 99.99% better!! :0

No really, visit her website here and look her stuff over, she is sooo awesome!! :0

Hempfest 2010 F.O.W.L. Report

2010-05-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

Well it certainly turned out to be magnificent weather for the First Annual 2010 WHEE Hempfest held in Red Bluff this weekend! I understand that this particular event seemed to have caused an uproar by some standards, but then, so do most other events for some reason or another! There is always somebody or some group that is going to be put out over it. Please, can we at least get a grip on some of the panic and gossip and take a bite of reality here. My friend and I decided we wanted to go and check it out, just to see what is REALLY going on and to see what/how we can participate in the changing of some hate-filled minds.

We started out early because we happen to be early birds and we were up for an adventure. We decided we would get there (Red Bluff) early and explore the town a little, neither one of us are very familiar with Red Bluff and thought it would be a hoot! Red Bluff has not usually been known to me other than the Rodeo, and even though I do not mind a little Country Music and am usually up for some fun, the Rodeo is not my cup of tea. Yes, I have been to the Rodeo before, in Salinas, Calif, when my HBBY was in the Army nearby at Fort Ord. I will not speak badly of this event because I would be one of those above mentioned people that may have problems with some events that "other" people find entertaining and enjoyable! HMMM....

Anyhoo... So we stopped at a local service station, Valero, where we filled up our gas tank, bought some drinks, snacks and then got directions! The young ladies on duty were great. They were bubbly and fresh, helpful, able to multi-task and had a great attitude! Oh, and they knew how to give directions! WooHoo, TY !

Still, we were too early to even be the first to show up, so we decided to hunt for one of our favorite Haunts, a good old fashioned Thrift Shop! It did take some doing and a little exploring but we did find one called "Hope Chest" that seemed to have just what we were looking for and then some! We had a great time looking around the store and poked around for over an hour before ending up with an armload to check out! What is most notable to me here though, was the parting conversation that went something like this:

(Intro: There had been ongoing conversation with us both during our shopping and then chatter pertaining to our selections and purchases when)

(Thrift Shop Lady)TSL: YaDaYaDa....next time you come in!
ME: That should be fun, but that may be awhile! Maybe next year!
TSL: What? Next year... Oh, my, why is that? You're not from around here?
ME: No, we are just in town for the Hempfest!
TSL: PaBu-pt-By_ Pbuhmuh-bppDD! What? OH! I AM SO AGAINST "THOSE PEOPLE"!
ME: What? Why is that?
TSH: Well because it is just going to be a mess and all "those" people are going to be horrible for Our Town!
(I am now handing her my $20 bill to pay for my purchases)
ME: How is it going to be a mess for this town?
THS: All those people, supposedly 1,800 coming through here, trashing everything, doing what they want, the traffic and who knows what else? It will just be a nightmare!
ME: I don't understand why you would think that. I am certainly quite peacable, everyone I know is too! Everyone attending will be under scrutiny, I see police abound, plenty of traffic control around and you have lots of new people in town to spend money! Didn't they just have a Rodeo or something here that had like THOUSANDS of people come through here?
TSL: Yeah, but "we" won't see any money or benifit from "those" people being here!
ME: How is that? Am I not standing here handing you my money right now?
TSL: BBBBUT...THAT is different!!!
ME: How? I am one of "those" people! I am only here because of the "Festival"! I spent my money here and in several other businesses and shops already just this morning IN Red Bluff and I am NO different than anyone else coming through here for the SAME reason!

Well, even though she continued to stammer and tried to recover her composer, she at least lost the urge to PUT me out of her store immediately! (And yes, her looks, mannerisms and demeanor said this was her first and immediate desire, obvious to all around!) However I doubt to see her "coupon" or "special" in next year's Hempfest Flyer! :) Too bad, cause I would use it!

Onto the Festival!

We arrived early, things were still being set up. I am handicapped with a lot of difficulties walking, so after some initial confusion I did get to park in an area within reasonable access. Although I understand there was some issues here and there over the situation, I hope that cool heads will concede that there was an earnest effort to comply. I am hopeful that there will be a NEXT year and that there will be a chance to learn from this years mishaps! :)

Check in was smooth, we showed the Certified Copy of our MMJ RX, got our bright green arm bands that then allowed us access to goodies at the booths and afforded some cool lounges to socialize, ingest and talk freely with other people just like us! It is so nice to be able to talk without trying to "code" what your saying or "fear" persecution and ridicule for appreciating that which is NATUARALLY offered as an imbibe, tonic, elixir and medication! Want Real Information? It is not hard to find REAL KNOWLEDGE...http://www.drugscience.org//

There were quite a few great vendors, cool artists and sweet "Club" booths, but I was sure wishing there would have been some (early) vendors selling food and beverages! It was a little hard getting around on the uneven ground and I did not last very long, but I had a blast seeing artist~ Guy Haley out there body and face painting. He has hitched up alongside the River Valley Collective lately where he has done lots of ART! He has done cool murals all around town, has some great art for sale and "Dabbles Digital" too! Ialso want to add here that I had some treats from "Incredible edibles" (avail@River Valley Collective) by food artist, Aris Tottle, that was soooo good, I guarantee we will be visiting the RVC to get some more!

I was delighted to see a couple of old friends, (Hey Jeanette!) make some new, share knowledge, enjoy fun art and swap stories with great folks out there! I had to bail early just because this old crone gave out! But I hope others went on to have a marvelous evening too.

I have to round off by giving a HUGE thumbs up to DINNER at "Carlito's" Mexican Restaurant! It was very authentic and flavorful, fresh, generously portioned, reasonably priced and superbly serviced as well! Don't miss it if your going through Red Bluff, well worth the extra mile! :)

Okay, so then as we were leaving I noticed the (older than ME) couple that walked out of the restaurant in front of us a few minutes earlier had parked next to us and had stopped to enjoy their cigarettes while sitting in their car. The woman made eye contact with me and I realized she felt persecuted because of her cigarette as she tried to close her door and apologize for smoking it, so I cheerfully just asked them if they were going to attend the Hempfest in town! The Woman nearly choked to death as she sputtered "What? Why ever would we do that? (To her Husband) Did you hear what she asked us?" Wow, I am sorry, but that ciggy in your hand is uuhhhmmmm..... welll... oh...nevermind.......

I hope that overall, the Festival was a success and that it will be a growing addition to the North State Events to look forward to! Just like the Rodeo, Rap Music and many other Venues I do not have an "appreciation" for I can still have a tolerance to! :) Although I would have been happy to see more educational, informational, growing products and industry representations, it was still a lot of fun to see the people out in support and DOING SOMETHING! Who knows, someone could even grade the place a little? LOL!

Please help me have positive thoughts and energies to focus on having Expo II next year, more support can only help!

Redding Art Hop Scene Still Rocks!

2010-05-13T23:40:00.000-07:00

I was out in full gallop on Saturday night! Wow, what a fantastic round I had too! I only made it to a few spots, but I must say the show topper for me was the great goings on over at Carnegies with the busts from the roller derby goddesses, Reddings very own, "Angry Beavers"! This was such a fun and hopefully productive endeaver to have a chance for Art and Fans to draw attention to a meaningful cause, Breast Cancer Awarenes! I tried to throw my hat in the ring when the call to artists came out, darn, maybe next year? The night was a lot of fun, I made some other great hops too and I had so much more to write about, I still have the notes, I just don't have the heart!

I really wanted to write this last week, right after the Second Saturday Arthop. But unfortunately, when I got home that night I found out that my sister had died. I have not been able to...

The Holidays Behind Leave Bright New Year Ahead!

2010-01-03T20:20:00.000-08:00

Even though I have had Holiday's with more money, I have had some with less. I don't think it mattered one bit to the world around me, nothing collapsed and nobody perished from disappointment!

I am left with the great feeling of starting a fresh new year and enjoying what I have! I am ready with great new inspiration and renewed energies!

I plan on living each day...!

:)

ArtSmart At The Mt. Shasta Mall A Smart Idea!

2009-10-18T13:53:00.000-07:00

I finally managed to do two things, make it out and about without having a massive Herky-Jerky and being able to talk to my computer again! >WooHoo, I win! Okay, so I still had the Herky-Jerky, but it was at the end and I was already outside by the time it came full on and I still can't download any pictures! :) But I will take even small victories in my life!

I was so happy to see such a diverse display of artists! I had great time seeing some familiar faces like Troy and Adam from Hawkman Studios doing some demonstration as well some interesting new faces too! I especially had a great time discussing techniques with a lovely artist named Sandra Palmer, a fellow Abstract artist with her own flare that made me want to run home and dabble! I was also intrigued by a new introduction to an artist named Mandy Holt, "Declarations Of Love", wow, I couldn't stop looking!

I never did manage to find Raette Meredith, I heard I was chasing her around but I had to bolt for the door too soon! I believe she was the primary "ringleader" for the ArtSmart happening to begin with! I do not know how she does it, she is sooo talented and industrious too! My friend and I took the G- Kids down to cottonwood to see her Mural! So Cool! Very nice! I hear she is on another one too? I might catch her in action next time!

I hope there will be another Artist Gathering before Christmas, there was some really wonderful and unique pieces I know would be wonderful gifts!

Riches And Rags

2009-08-17T11:12:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to pull out some stuff and dust em off to get myself warmed up and ceative. I know my friends have heard this story, it was even handed out as a "Christmas Story", I used to write a new story every year and give it my friends with some little trinket in leu of a "real" gift! HAHAHA! My Sister insists it was just because I am a tightwad! LOL! Well, anyway, here is a new-vamp version of my all time favorite!

I Love You Dad!

"Rags"

My Dad “Clem” died at Thanksgiving. So, instead of our ragtag family gathering to celebrate the blessings of life, we gathered to say good-bye to a loved one. His was not a quick and surprising departure, it was a slow, gut wrenching, painful and long death. There was no peaceful slipping off for the tired, old, weathered redneck. He had fancied himself like “John Wayne” most of his life but there would be no riding off in the sunset for him! But those surrounding him did love him and were there to do all we could to ease his suffering. He was at home, where he wanted to be, with all of us there by his side.

There are a lot of things that take new perspective at times like this. As my dad called out to me, “ Girl, go fetch me a towel, no, no, that green one!” I smiled, knowing he liked the green one, even though it was only a rag now. I paused, remembering the origins of this really ugly green terry scrap I held. We had bought that towel precisely because it was so ugly, so then he could wipe his greasy hands on it and it just wouldn’t even matter. I gazed at that inanimate object and started to think of the stories ingrained in those tattered terry fibers. How and when had it become so torn? How many times had my dad wiped the sweat and blood from his brow with this ugly thing? How many tears had it collected? I used it once to wipe my snoogers on after my Dad saved me from choking on a piece of beef jerky! I can remember seeing it once in his service truck, stiff and thick with who-knows-what. I rescued it by throwing it in the laundry. Do I even want to know what all those stains are? I wonder about the other adventures this “rag” has had living life with my Dad. It’s strange how this towel now seems to have had a “life” of it’s own. Some might ask, how is it that an inanimate object like a simple towel can take provoke such an emotional image and response?

Our family was poor. No, not the really bare bone, raggedly starving poor, but still, poor nonetheless we were always “surviving” between one job and the next. My dad was a mechanic, without any formal education beyond the 3rd or 4th grade. His idea of fine literature to his dying day would be a good comic book. Raised on a farm, life was pretty tough in North Dakota. A good strong back and a mechanical mind, he was needed at home to help run the farm. In this survivalist environment, an education was just a waste of good work time. He learned his trade by trial and error. But, his true “gift” was when it came to “fixin things”. He just loved the puzzle of it all, and he had a compulsion to find out how and why it did or didn’t work. Always an obsessive need to figure things out. We called it his “Thinking Hat”, most notably when he had his tongue working at the side if his mouth we knew he was going at it! (He and I had a special bond because we shared this strange trait). Nothing excites us more than an urgent need to “Mickey Rig” something to get us out of a jam. The whole T.V. series McGyver could have been conceived just based on my Dad! The farm taught him that hard work and perseverance was the measure of a good man, and he was a big, strong, steady man. He left the farm to join the service, then after leaving the service, his family life soon settled him in a small rural community in Southern California.

His line of work has a lot of feast and famine aspects and he struggled constantly to fill the voids. Because he had an enormous heart and a deep loyalty to his family he would never turn down any work. Often working for favors, receiving minimal pay or “trades” most other times. Generous to a fault, he died with his riches; only of the soul. He had nothing left because he gave it all away while he lived. If you needed it and he had it, it was yours! His life was full of hardships and he worked doggedly through some really rough times, right up to the very end. He worked even when he had to lie on a scooter and push himself around. Although he was only a shell of himself when he passed, he will always be a “Giant” of a man to us!

Our family of seven (plus strays), was a real rag-tag mixture of “his, mine, ours and some of theirs” and we lived on a bare piece of land in the mountains. It was filled with every redneck cliche’ ever dreamed of; out houses, fetching water, kerosene lamps, farm animals in the house, plywood patched floors and a yard full of auto carcasses. Just about anything Jeff Fox worthy ever said about us was true in one way or another. Hell, that’s what makes him so damn funny! It was not an easy life, just a lot of plain, hard work with a good dose of “down home” realities. Things that were important to us may seem a little obscure to others. We most definitely learned an appreciation for some things that ordinary people may take for granted. Such as electricity, indoor plumbing and good clean towels!

If you’ve never had to haul huge buckets of water to fill a tub that you will inevitably share with several other people, you may not be a redneck! This is the real reason why rednecks only bathe once a week and or if you really just need to! Bucket after bucket from the well to the wood stove and then to the tub. One reluctant sibling after another would bring in their buckets of hot water, add it to the bath and climb in. Now, this is where one of those real life lessons occurred. What it really means to be a “middle” child. The older kids got first dibs, one by one, until they reach me. You see, I was not old enough to warrant a bath alone, having not reached that (puberty) line between “young’n” and “ girl” as yet. So my job was to bathe the babies. This was just how life was.

At least for a couple of years until me and my Dad finally got the pipe line in to run the water from the pump to the house! It had to be put down into a trench that we dug by hand. Okay I admit, I was only about 9 but I did my best. I certainly helped him more than anyone else over the course of a year and more, just a few hundred feet actually, but a long, long way with a pick, shovel and a wheel barrow!

Anyway, I would dutifully scrub each struggling child and hand it off (or chase them off) one by one until the water was dirty, cloudy and freezing. By then I would just rinse off right out of a bucket. It was cold by then, but at least it was still clear. The one redeeming moment was always that wonderfully blissful feeling of wrapping myself in a clean fresh towel. If all was going well at the moment, it was stiff, scratchy and smelled like soap and fresh air. If not, it could be anything from a funky smelling t-shirt to someone Else's "stolen" towel! , hopefully not a funky smelling t-shirt! Many a family feuds had begun in our house over the precious “clean towel” commodity.

We usually had a washing machine of some kind, for a long time a wringer washer, but never seemed to have any dryer that worked more than a couple of licks hit or miss. Most of the time laundry just hung perpetually from lines that straggled from all types of precarious perches. We struggled constantly to keep them off the ground. And I do wish that someone could explain just what it is about fresh laundry that attracts dirty animals? Dogs just love a good game of tug-o-war with a fresh, clean, stolen piece of clean laundry! Then the goats would always drag and chew whatever they could grab before we caught them. Cats climb, geese grab and the birds crap on them! Between the animals and everyone else running around like heathens, obstinate weather and just plain old nature, a fresh clean towel was a very precious thing. To help diminish the towel wars, we were all given our own personal towels to be responsible for. We took great care to choose different and unusual colors to keep track of what towel belonged to whom. Sometimes resorting to just huge permanent markers. If you didn’t have a clean towel, the alternatives were really hit or miss! Towels that live this harsh rugged kind of life do not usually last long, so a good, clean towel was always hard to come by!

The holidays always seem to pour on the stress and pose an extra challenge when the money is tight. It’s a given struggle to try to find the balance between things you need, things you want and things you can afford. Then the biggest challenge is then financing some of these little extras. Already under great strain just to make ends meet, my Dad worked day and night for the holidays, with dogged perseverance, for every dime he could. It really meant a lot to him to come up with that extra cash.

Now, most families have holiday traditions, those small things that play them selves out year after year with just minor adaptations to suit life. My father had just such a tradition. He would come in on Christmas Eve, covered from head to toe in grease and oil. He would peel off his filthy coveralls, wash up in the kitchen sink, run his thick fingers through his crew cut and eyeball all of us, just waiting in anticipation. With a grin that could only be described as “from ear to ear”, (with a great deal of drama and production), he would dig deep into his pocket, fish around and then haul out, flash, and fan a huge roll of bills. Then with a long exaggerated drawl, announce, “Weeellll, I might just run into town, think anyone wants to ride along?” You bet, we would beat each other down to all pile into that old beat up service truck and then freeze, huddled together for that long, bumpy ride into town.

The only store open in our small town on Christmas Eve was the Thrifty’s drug store. (In later years there was a K–mart that would then became the scene of our invasion. Till then, Thrifty’s was the biggest store in town.) As we swarmed into the store, this dirty, rowdy and raucous mob, my dad would holler to gather us around. He would grandiosely pull that wad out of his pocket and begin to peel them off and hand them out. He would sternly say, “Now, make sure you get something for everyone” and then “you can pick out one thing for yourself.” As we scattered and scurried away, he would add “and get yourself a new towel.” This ritual played out numerous ways and numerous times throughout our lives. For birthdays as well as other celebrations. Getting a new towel was always better than socks!

Needless to say, I am now an admitted towel hoarder. There are towels in my house that I have been dragging around for more than half my life. They ceaselessly follow from one domain to the next. I collect and adopt towels from everywhere. Old towels, new towels, it doesn’t matter. I have towels that have made their way over the years from beautiful fluffy showpieces to stringy little squares that I keep in a basket, ever ready with their last few strands of terry to meet the needs of life. Sacrificing themselves for spills, scrapes or dirty jobs that could very well be their last. These rags have many years of my life entwined in their shreds. As I look at one, I see the stain from helping my daughter learn to tie-dye, I think about some of the other memories in this basket of “rags.” There’s one that was torn and stained as I rescued an oil soaked and injured bird from the beach, here’s the one that I held to my shoulder for my grandchildren and there’s one I seem to favor when I’m sick. A lot of these and other memories are embedded into the ugly scraps left here.

As I sat with my Dad I pondered this strange ingrained ideal of the towel. I have to chuckle, because this “story” has been an on going “joke” in our family for years. I still try to buy towels for my family at Christmas. They will all laugh about it, but if I don’t get them the towels, then they will concertedly whine, “Where’s my towel?” My Dad would actually ask us, usually in a quiet way and with all sincerity, “Do you have enough towels?” More than one trip has been made to K-mart when a visit discloses that our house is lacking something, “need soap”? “Okay, might as well grab a couple of those towels on sale there while your at it.” This was to him a small but important measure of just how well (or not) things were going in your life. If you have plenty of towels, well then, you must be doing okay!

When my Dad passed away, I gathered up his things and washed his linens. Then when I returned home it was with a small scrap of a green towel tucked into my bags. I grab it now and then and use it. I try to make sure it is a gentle retirement. At least as long as I am still here to hold the memory close to me. As I fold up that piece of towel and put it away in my beat up old rag basket, I can’t help but feel a tug of love and fondness. It seems that every piece here, having had some memory or story of it’s own, speaks out to me. I know it is funny, and I silently chuckle, because I know the memories are really all in my heart and in my mind and that the basket is really just full of “Rags”!
Thank You For Reading My Story!

Clawing My Way Through!

2009-08-16T10:47:00.000-07:00

So I have not posted in awhile. I am afriad that it has been hard for me to feel creative with so much strife in my life! I am just hanging by a knot in my floss! But... I was inspired today by what I first read as a story in a favorite local yokal rags called The Hot Air Quarterly! Just when you think you have it rough someone else comes along you can't beat down with a stick!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3031/2811630259_bc89c336a6_o.jpg

Make sure you see the spider on top of this THREESOME! Great picture Darren!

To Boldly Go Where No Man Has Gone Before...

2009-07-31T16:34:00.000-07:00

Now let me tell you, this is really cool! A little morbid, but still cool... My VBF JM has a son that plays with molten metals. This is what happens to an ANT Mound when molten metal is poured down the hole!

Wow, who knew? Star Ship Enterprise!

A Redding Life: My Rose

2009-05-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

A Redding Life: My Rose

My Quest For Meaningful Experiences And Stimulation Of The...

2009-05-06T11:36:00.000-07:00

Cerebral Cortex! What? Yeah you know what you were thinking....
So my ongoing love afair with this new book I am reading has inspired me to keep plugging away at my dream of launching myself into Vlogging with a meaning at my new website coming soon...www.icedview.com.. I am pushing myself out with my camcorder to give it a try! What good is a website with no content? I will have my new computer soon and will ACTUALLY be able to download my camcorder drivers onto my "machine" and then put videos on my site! WhooHoo!
Meanwhile...
I went for my first "SPOT" to "Dees Gardens" out on 299 just east of redding. It was a nice day and they are geared up for the season and have tons of activity and plenty of goodies for ANY gardeners out there needing just that something "special"! Just visit their own website to get an idea of some of their great offerings!

I will post my pitiful video as soon as I get a chance, meanwhile I have my sights on a new adventure this week! I am off to .... uhuhuh...I'm not sure!

Out In The Country...Well Cottonwood Anyway!

2009-04-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

We made it out to the "Opening" of the new Cottonwood Farmers Market! We had a good time and was again happy to see some of our favorites out entertaining and encouraging community involvement! Hoorah and huge kudos go out to 'Still Married", "Pine Dogs" and the "Cactus and the Rose" for consistently providing such fine music and entertaining family fun!

Then we went for a drive and happened on a really cool old cemetery, what an awesome way to stroll through a lovely sunset and contemplate the history and memories that lay all around us! I took some great pictures, but alas, my poor computer will be unable to participate at this time! I am out of memory! I'm working on it! Solving the problem, not the computer! HAHAHA!

Showed Up Late For Show Case At Little Filly's!

2009-04-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

Once again I got my wires crossed and SNAFU'd my way into a MisTake! I walked up just in time to see my FAVS "Still Married" packing there gear in the car! Oh Man! WHAT? Yup...seems I was flying by the seat of my pants and dam....BUT anyway was not too terrible, I did get to stay for a couple of artists sets! I didn't plan on staying too long and had to high tail it home with a pizza!

Was great to listen to a fun and entertaining set from Michael Gaither while enjoying my own slice as well. He is a very talented songster, I hear he will be at the Post Office with Jim Dyer this Friday too! Make sure you check out Michael's podcast, The not-for-musicians-only music podcast! People don't know it yet, but Podcasting is the way of the future! It willl be all about PODS! Oh no the Pod-People will get us! AAcckkkk....

As always, Nick Ciampi was delightful and entertaining! I didn't get to stay for the "Pine Dogs" performance, but I did get to meet them! I am going to have to take my autograph book with me and start getting some autographs! LOL! I did catch them at the City Hall gig awhile back and they were GREAT! I look forward to seeing everyone for the next showcase! Coming up this Friday, April 24th from 3-7, for the Opening of the Cottonwood Farmers Market! I here it will be a YEAR ROUND market? Awesome I say!

I always wonder if the establishment knows how benificial it is for them to sponser these types of events, for example, I would never have even known that "Little Filly's" Pizzaria was located where it is if I had not gone looking for the band! Let alone that they have some KA pizza too! Went with the Gourmet Veggie, nice, very nice! Will be back!

Art Hop Aholic!

2009-04-12T16:10:00.000-07:00

I was so bent on getting to as many places as I could, I jump started at about 5 p.m. and stopped in at the Infinate Designs! I was right on time! Greeted by the lovely Jeanette and Ann, I recieved a wonderful custom etched, keepsake Art Hop Commemorative Wine Glass and with something to put in it to boot! I have been trying to get to their store for the last 2 Hops and haven't made it yet because I kept running out of time and /or "juice"!

Wow, what beautiful things they have in store for the hungry eye! I was amazed at the level of artistic talents spread throughout their inventory! I found so many different things to look at I lingered way too long! It would be very easy to buy all your gifts there and never get anyone the same thing!

But, I was there in time to see Howard "Luke" Lucas and Barbara setting up for the "Free Color" demonstration, always fun and so cool for the kids to jump into! Seems there was a boo-boo in the map, had mis-listed the store, mixed up some numbers on the map, so I hope there was still plenty of people that found it! Well worth any extra searching for sure!

I did stop by on my way downtown to see the childrens work at the Medical Home Care Professionals, as well as made sure I got by the Riverfront Playhouse's brand spanking new digs to see the Shasta County Womens Refuge representations from the kids. Some of those pieces really leave you thinking!

KIXE over on Market was having a good time too! I could not get out and walk so I only got to do a drive by, but I saw a lot of people going in and out! Music was playing in the streets out at the Vintage and I could hardly get into Pacific West Graphics! Ohh La La, I believe that Troy and Adam have really started something here! Thank you so much Hawkman Studios!

I did manage to get up to the loft at one of my favs, Carnegie's, and see some really cool and interesting Ink Block Prints done by a young fellow named Eli Heleniak. I was struck by it's understatement and could see he has an critical eye!

I finished off the evening stopping by the North Valley Art League and as always was enthralled by the artwork! What can I say, they always have such fine work there! I cannot stress enough to people that they should drop by there often, just to see whats new! Thank you League Volunteers, for such a nice spread of goodies as well as open smiling faces to greet the visitors! The League members should be proud and grateful for all you do and such fine representation as well!

Redding Paparatzi Full Frontal At Cascade Tonight! ArtHop (pt1)

2009-03-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

I'm exhasted! Whew what a day! I dragged my honey out to the First Sundial Film festival, I'm sure it will be back, what a turnout! I went back to the theater this evening as it was in line of the ArtHop and could not help myself but join the line of people outside snapping pictures of some of Redding's top Socialites! Now if only I knew who all of them are! Oh well! I had a blast anyway!
Now, I just drug myself in from the ArtHop and I am so tired I can hardly keep my eyes open, I just wanted to get some of this all down for the night!
The "Swing Cats" were having an unbelievable jam at the Eatery, met quite a few great artists and then was blown away at the Art Council show from the High School Kids! WOWwowWOW!

More later...sleep first!

"Hopping" Hearts Happy Honeys!

2009-02-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day revelers abound out and about for the ArtHop in Redding Saturday night! Troy and Adam have out done themselves, and I bet just about exhausted themselves in the meantime! Whew,what a fun and entertaining venue the monthly HOP has brought out here for locals as well as a few tourists even! I overheard at the "Vintage" a couple that had made their way from Chico just to check it out, another young man here visiting from Sacramento and a wonderful woman that traveled in all the way from San Diego! Okay, so maybe she was visiting her sister here but they chose to Hop for their entertainment of the evening! Wow! I believe that Redding is a natural resource for artists and should be an artists "Mecca" as it is!

I made my way through as best I could at several places, however, I was unfortunately stricken down fairly early and actually didn't get to all the places I had on my list! Phil Fountain was at the top of my list over at the Infinate Designs and I didn't make it over there because it was supposed to be the last place I was going to go, but I ended up at the NVAL for my last stop and had to head home! Bummer!

I did manage to fall into another one of those little hole-in-the-wall places in downtown called the 501 Club! I have to say I discovered a couple of really awesome metal sculptures done by a pair of "unknown" (?) artists, one of which I spoke with at the bar named Michael, (Bartender). I tried to take some pictures but I am afraid that (sigh) once again, they did not come out! If you are at all interested in seeing them I am sure you would be welcome to walk right in and look at them for yourself! Michael stated that the other artist involved was no longer interested in producing anything, What a SHAME!

I am making a habit out of finding these places, I might say on purpose! I love to look at things that others sometimes do not see and see it from a different perspective!

I did get into "Carnegie's" to see Luke Lucas for his show and demonstration/participation installation in the galleria! Luke is such a fine artist! His work has a deep character to it that draws you in! Then, what kid can resist a shot at his "Paint Free" Exhibit? Always a hit! I would love to see him travel around to some of the schools with his show, the arts suffer in the schools so much in these hard times! You go Luke!

Also KUDOS to the proprietor of Carnegie's, JULIE, for the Sculpture/Mural on the wall in the main room! WOW! I would love to get another chance at taking a couple of pictures there, because of course, once again, my pictures SUCK!

I talked with artist Celeste White for a minute while I scoped out the really awesome interactive art installation at Board Mart, I love her "Assemblage" pieces! I want her to join my group on Yahoo! I'll have to send her a link! :0

As a final tribute, Big Kudos to the ladies manning the doors and floors at the NVAL, Bless them as it was wet and lonely! Especially after the packed house they had last month!

Slam Buckra Pulls One Off For Pio Loco!

2009-02-07T12:20:00.000-08:00

Woo-Hoo! I finally got out to see Slam out on the town! Part of my new philosophy of "stop thinking about it and do it"! It was really great, we sat upstairs on the balcony overlooking the stage, drank too many margaritas and had a blast! I tried to get some video, and I did manage some pieces, but I look like I might be a little tipsy while I'm doing it! LOL!

Cultural Cruise Clips

2009-02-01T10:19:00.001-08:00

It was a lot of fun to get out on the town for the annual "Cruise". I of course headed out early to catch my favorite Dyna-duo "Still Married" kicking off the bash at the city hall. I did arrive early enough to recieve the autographed picture and CD that Erin was wonderful enough to give me as well as say hello in person! She even let me prattle on a little! YAYA! Then Erin even sang my favorite "Possum In The Hen House", Not on the CD, maybe on their NEXT! As we explored the art on the 2nd floor of the beautiful City Hall, Erins voice was resonating so beautifully that I had to stand up there to listen for awhile. The extra acoustics really brings out her voice! We stayed long enough to enjoy Nick Ciampi as well as Steve and Diana before heading out to try and catch some other venues!

We hit Turtle Bay, and even though the Geckos were fantastic, there was not too much art, I'm not sure why though? There was only a couple of pieces but from Bay area artists? No local artists could supply anything for them?

We headed straight over to the North Valley Art League to watch the Awards for the 25th Annual National Art Show! Wow, what a great idea to combine the two events! Unfortunately, I think they may have been ill prepared for just how great of an idea it was! Maybe next year someone could come up with a microphone? The HUGE crowd was totally unable to hear anything and there was even some angry people at the back of the crowd. I have to say though... THE ART! WOW,wow,wow! More on that later!

The one place I was totally stoked about was going out to the Shasta College Art Center, I thought they had a show by the instructors going on. I was wrong, way wrong! So wrong I will not even go on about it other than to say.."Who Was IN CHARGE of that?" OMG, I'll probably never go back there again, it was VERY disappointing is the nicest thing I can say! Is there only one artist out at that place? Did they not have enough time to prepare something, someone, anything else?

I do not want to end on a bad note so I will say that we had a great time overall and it brings me to a new level of appreciation for the level of effort that people do put into making these events happen for us!

Redding Art Hop- Awesome Night Out!

2009-01-11T15:40:00.000-08:00

Well, I stayed true to my NYR#3, (Don’t just think about it, DO IT!), and went out last night on the "Art Hop" perpetuated by Troy Hawkman and Friends! What a fantastic time I had! I’m sure many would echo my sentiments, as it was crowded at every stop along the way! What a great crowd too, joyful families, cheerful hosts, friends met friend and greetings galore! Did I forget to mention the art? Oh there was plenty of that too! LOL!!

I started out the evening by setting out straight over to see my fellow bloggers from reddingblog.com , “Still Married” setting up to kick off the Hop with some great tunes over at the "Backyard Destinations". I had intended to get there early enough to get their autograph and a personal picture to add to my file! But alas, I got held up at the last second and was late arriving. I did try to get up to meet them but was only on time for the introduction of their first set! Dagnabbitt! Then, I could not figure out how to operate my camera! What a kink! I did run into Troy and Adam as well as many other great local notables. I spoke briefly with the hostess of the evening, Thank you Lisa and James for the lovely spread of edibles! The featured artist, Barbara Enochian, had some really striking pieces on display but I did not get a chance to meet the artist because I was too busy trying to pay attention to Erin and Craig delivering a couple of their great songs!

I went from there on over to "Sues Java Cafe" were I ran into a cool artist "Mike" that had some great pieces on display there. He has a great toon hand that reminded me of Tim Burtons stuff! He spoke of book he is working on illustrating and I am sure he'll be up and coming quite soon there after!

I strolled into "Fabrics, Etc" because it was finally an excuse for me to go look through their goodies! I met with the hostesses, Sherry and Barbara and discussed some of the lovely Home Decore they had in the store as well as the brilliant artwork there provided by Sandy Howell, one of the most spectacular hands in the northstate! She has such vibrant colors!

I stopped by to see what they had to offer at the "Medical Home Professionals" and was delighted to see Sandy Howell showing some reall beatiful work. My favorite was a stunning piece called "Hum Bug" that perfectly captured the moment that a hummingbird snatched itself a juicy little bug! It was like seeing it for yourself! And the "goodies" were pretty snazzy too! I think they were homemade!

I was dying to explore the art work on display at the Cascade Theater, but unfortunately I could not make it up the stairs. I did have a great conversation about the theater and some of it's life with "Ruthie", a volunteer for the theater! I wanted to stay for the dance presentation, but I had to leave before they started.

I tried to get into the "Vintage" but it was packed to the rim and I figured I would press on because there was still plenty to see! I always wanted to, so I stopped into the "Clover Club" just to see what they had going on in there. I had my self a little B&B with a nice little conversation with "Bill" the keep about a mutual favorite" Slam Buckra"! I LOVE SLAM! He is on my list of autographs for 2009!

Some of the most interesting works was by Jeremy Sawtelle at the Posh-Mama Boutique, his large pieces are done with Kool-Aid and Coffee! Wow, super cool! You have to see it, stop by!

All night long I was following around a couple of great photographers and finally felt compelled to at least introduce myself, so, shout out to Chris and Jessica from Hanna Gallery, check them out,(they blog too)! I know who to turn to for great pictures at least!

I have to give a big set of KUDOS out to Nicole Gullixson for having some cool work out for her first show! WOOHOO! Nathans Anthem's Body Piercing And Tattoo's sure picked a winner! Nice, and she is still in High school folks! Wow, I see some great stuff coming from her. My favorite was "Urban Sunset", I heard Troy likes that one too! LOL!

I ended the evening strolling through the Arts Council displays of Encaustics and even met with two of the wonderful artists that produced most of the works I saw! Ann Kinkade and Rodney Thompson were there and were very informative about there work and trials! Great finish to a long evening for me!

Second Round Of Art Festival To Check On My Ducks!

2008-09-28T11:46:00.001-07:00

I have to hurry up and get down to see if my duck is going to get Plucked! WooHoo!
Also, I voted on Raette Meredith's Glorious painting "Just Around The Bend" and I want to see if it wins!
I did manage to pull a sorry representation of one of my pieces out at the last second but it did not make me feel too good because it was a last second make do! The gentleman that was supposed to be making my frame never came through and I had to creatively find a way to cover all my mounting holes and it ended up looking like a craft project instead of a painting! Oh well!
Sorry no pictures, I am down to dial up and just glad to be able to ramble! LOL

Go cheer for a duck!

Slam Fan Hopping Mad...

2008-09-14T19:34:00.000-07:00

...as a hatter that is, I heard Slam Buckra was at the Vintage last night for the "ART HOP" and I had to miss out! AARRGGHHH...

Here is one of my favorites, from his own original pieces! Paint that is, his music is a whole other beast, too cool! I do not know the title on this, but I really LOVE these colors and the expession of his execution! Self Portrait? LOL!

Oh well! I hope they had a "bloozy" great time, (maybe even a boozy one too)! LOL!

I was otherwise indisposed and unable to get over there at all! It was awful because I just knew I was missing out on the hottest spot on the HOP! Okay, so maybe I am a little partial, but I do think his music is pretty awesome and really would have loved to be over there sucking down a couple of fine cocktails while chilling to his groove!

Listen to his stuff, www.slambuckra.com and then buy a CD, SUPPORT OUR LOCAL ARTISTS!

Missed out catching the "fire Dolls" too, but I hear they will be appearing again September 20th at the Redding Convention Center during the Redding Tattoo Show!

The Art Hop was a blast last night, just tons of people out having a great time, seeing some fantastic art, visiting friends and tossing back some cool (okay maybe hot) snacks to boot! There were at least three times as many visitors than the Hop before so I know the word is spreading fast! By the next one we should really be jumping!

I did get to meet one of the other local artists that always draws my eye, Kaydee Duckworth! Her work is really striking! I was very happy to finally meet her, I have been oogling her stuff out for a really LONG time, find some at a local gallery and check it out! I would put a link here, but I could not find one! BooHoo!

I know Rayette Meredith was doing a demonstration over at Westside Florist, I wish I could have stopped by! I am going to have to find a way to get out and do a little "Hopping" of my own on the next one! I did have fun though just visiting as they came through where I sat! Next one, I'm out and about!

I sure hope Slam is roaming around somewhere too!

The Next 2nd Saturday Art Hop Is Just A Few Days Away!

2008-09-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

I am positively excited about all the great participants for the Art Hops! What great fun!

One of my personal favorites, Raette Meredith will be over at Westside Florists shop doing a demonstration! Wow! That should be awesome so I hope there are a lot of visitors there.

I think we have some real momentum now and it will be getting more and more exciting as the word spreads and more people jump onboard! I would love to see some local "celebs" out making the rounds and do some glad handing to help pump up the community involvement!

Also, just around the corner, is the TurtleBay Art & Craft fair in Caldwell Park. September 27th & 28th! Just in time to buy some really unique and original gifts for those special people on your Christmas list!This years festivities will be very exciting and the display will be spectacular! I can hardly wait!

Summer '08

This is one of my pictures I really liked from this years "Jest Playin" file!

Beautiful paintings And So Much More...

2008-08-30T14:25:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful weekday stroll through a little art action this week! The weather was spectacular and the mood was fresh!

First 1up is this spectacular piece by a local artist, Gwen Knaebel. Wow! The colors here are so intense!

I promise, I am not really being biased here, seriously! I loved another one (two really) that was NOT abstract also,

see... I cannot decide which one is better! I feel them both! Kaydee Duckworth "Our Heros" as well as Diana Wright Troxell with "Horrifying Splendor" really capture my emotion with their use of color and context to draw you into their prespective!

So There!

Hopping Good Turnout For Gallery! So Great To See...

2008-08-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

...so many new people coming through the galleries and just as nice to see old friends too! There was a steady stream of people that seemed to be having a great time. There were quite a few people that said they had never been to the gallery, so, that is really a boost for the artists right there, plus even probably a few new friends! Now that's what I'm talking about! :0

I will be bringing the goodies for the next round, I hope everyone likes Mexican! LOL! I'll have to make a light salsa for the "heat meek"! LOL

New Show, Wow! I Am In Awe Of So Much Great Talent!

2008-08-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

Well of course I would go all the way to the gallery and NOT remember my camera! AGAIN! AAARRRGGGHHHH!!!!

So I guess I will just have to make another trip down there now won't I? LOL!

I hear that Luke Lucas is having a workshop, check out his website for sign ups, information has it that he works wonders in his workshops! This is a watercolor artist that has a real "AWE"some talent, look through his gallery online and then make a point to stop by and visit him at "The Lassen Art Center", a wonderful "destination" drive!

From Luke's Gallery: Monterey / Fishermans Wharf

I love this one, I lived in Monterey for over 10 years and even lived 2 blocks from the warf for about 3 years! The colors here really grab me, it vibrates with life and excitement with just a hint of history and mystery!

Upcoming this weekend the 2nd Saturday Art Hop, I'll be there, I'll probably be bringing some snacks too! :)

Just Dropping By On A Weekday Afternoon!

2008-07-23T19:11:00.000-07:00

What a lovely day for an outing, and since I didn't have any pictures from my last visit to the gallery (forgot camera) I thought would drop by and get a few shots. I knew the garden was now in full regale. It was such a nice day, not too very hot and the smoke wasn't that prevailant either! The garden was really lovely, I never even knew so many of the beautiful displays of flowers were indiginous! Big kudos go out to the garden commitee and other volunteers for all their hard work.

I found the gallery being attended by two resident artists, they were very friendly and ready to show off the gallery. I appreciate their enthusiasm, also it was very nice to meet a couple of the artists and see their work up too! Beverly, a watercolorist with an incredible hand, had a lovely picture that reminded me of younger days at the pond near my grandparents farm.

Never mind the moon, it is really my flash! LOL, me and my pictures, I sure could use some photo lessons heh!! The other artist Maureen, had a soaring pastel so good that I thought it was a photograph. I had to get up close to it to realize it was actually a rendering!

(Again, no moon there!) Thank you ladies for attending the gallery as well as being so freindly and gracious.
As a personal homage to the members that are hung by "Loo", I give you the "Big Hall" Photo Tribute!
This months Tribute Photos are:

And then, I can't close without touting my personal Favorites:

Love, love, love!

If I could buy a piece of art right now this would be it! The picture here of course cannot touch the vibrancy or the depth in this work. WOW! I do not even like the subject matter really, it is all about the colors and the space! I can hardly wait to put some of this flavor into a piece of my own! "Big Red Award" to Sean Randall for the "boxers"!

Now if anyone knows me, they know why I picked this one.. ohhh sooo my colors! LOL

Big Green Award goes to:

Okay, okay, so I am a bit redundant! But I LIKE this picture! Really, it is not because it is green at all! Seriously though, I mean it!
"Cowboy Heaven" by Gene Knaebel made me feel like I was right there, I loved it!

We finished off the day by making a trip over to the Old City Hall Gallery!

Lx5

First "2nd Saturday Art Hop" A Hopping Good Time!

2008-07-17T14:19:00.000-07:00

I was excited to see so many people gallery "Hopping" for the first night out with Hawkman Studios on the very first "2nd Saturday Art Hop". I hope this will be an ongoing success with many more patrons out to enjoy it on the next one! I think everyone was happy. Maybe the word will spread and next month will be a real door buster!

Ther was also a wonderful reception for Raette Meredith. WOW! What a really great artist! She had some really nice pieces showing. She has such an amazing perspective and her work is so vibrant! You can't help but be mesmerized when standing in front of her colorful works! The Chardonnay Cheese wasn't bad either! LOL!

Here is a picture of the artist from her own page, too bad I did not think to take my camera! "I know. HUH?" Go take a moment to visit her website too!

Remember, support your local artist- buy art today!

Lx5

New Blog About Gallery BNS!

2008-06-29T10:42:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the BNS!
I originally had something else in mind but I'll go here instead! LOL!

So my personal opinions and affiliations shall be exploited here in whatever manner shall tickle my twinkle!

Raette Meredith. Wow, what can I say, she can blow you away! Her work is so fantastic it must really speak for itself! Color, skill, style and technique, she has it all! Truly a modern artist that will be collectible for years and generations ahead! Visit her web site http://www.artbyraette.com/

Buy something from your favorite artist today!
Lx5