FRIDAY FEATURE on BONZAI BEADWEAR blog!

Bonnie of BONZAI BEADWEAR on Etsy has just featured me on her blog!  If you'd like to learn a bit more about me....take a peek!  I love featuring other artists, and it is also fun to be featured.  THANKS, BONNIE!

CLICK HERE TO VISIT: BONZAI BEADWEAR BLOG

Bonnie designs/creates beautiful jewelry, so if you visit her blog, be sure to visit her Etsy shop.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS - Hand Crafted Jewelry

Blue Chalcedony, Blue Lace Agate and Sterling Silver 3 piece set

3 piece set includes earrings, bracelet and necklace. Awesome pale blue color with lacey bands of white and opaqueness.  Necklace: 18 inches with a Blue Chalcedony Druzy Pendant focal, Blue Lace Agate faceted ovals and rounds with accents of Sterling Silver and a Sterling Silver Lobster Claw clasp.

When you pay a visit to ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS, the beautiful handcrafted set above is just one of the many delightful pieces of jewelry you will see. 

Now is a great time to shop at ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS as they are offering the following discount:

At check out in the comments/instructions box please put "DZFANTASY20%" to receive your 20% off. It will be refunded via paypal after checkout is complete.


ALEXANDER DESIGN'S is a husband and wife team which creates beautiful, jewelry ......(as said in Jenny's Profile) "using a unique blend of Swarovski crystals, lamp work and glass beads, semi-precious gemstones, sterling silver, fine silver, pewter, and gold. Some pieces are playful, bold with lots of color and some pieces are simple yet very beautiful."


Let's read below as Jenny gives us a glimpse as to how ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS came to "be".


What led you to start creating your art/craft

I have been crafty for as long as I can remember, but what led me to jewelry was a fundraiser for a not-for-profit that I worked for. We made "Bracelets for Literacy" to help raise funds for our programs. I have been addicted to beads ever since.


How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I really like to work with everything. Just about everything appeals to me, stones, metals, glass, and crystals. I love to combine them together, the look and feel they have just amaze me. I do stay away from flames these days, I have burnt holes in chairs and have almost burnt a hole through my thigh. So my hubby gets to do most of the flame related things! But he loves it and that is what appeals to him, being able to heat something up to completely transform it. I catch him admiring his own work alot!

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

The peace it gives me. Almost everyone but a cat leaves me alone to create. My hubby and I share a room, but when we are working we are very quiet. It is stress relieving for me. I also love the end result, seeing someone's eyes light up because they have found the piece for them.


If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

An apple, our craft is ever growing and ever changing. We are always experimenting with new materials and techniques.


If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

Painting, I have always loved to paint. Since my kids came along I have not painted on canvas, just walls! The whole world gets left behind when I paint, it is just me and my painting surface. Again very stress relieving for me!


What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

Affordable, wearable art! I want everyone to be able to afford my art, I want them to be able to wear it with many outfits and wear it almost every day. I want people to treasure it, but wear it and hand it down to their children.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Get out there and do it! I was scared at how people would see my art/craft. But it was so worth it. I love doing something that I feel good about and I wish that for everyone. The world would be a happier place if everyone could do something that they loved doing. We are a completely self-employed household, and it is very hard some months, but we are still happy. Dive in and do it, you never know till you try!


Thanks, Jenny, for a wonderful interview and sharing you and your husband's wonderful creativity with all of us.  I think it is so great that you can create and work together doing something you both love!!

To see and learn more about the artists behind ALEXANDER'S DESIGNS be sure to visit the links below:

BLOG

WEB PAGE

TWITTER

FANTASY ...A Crack in Time - Treasury by FABRIC CRAFT

I decided the fairies must be working their magic for me....this is the third treasury they've been in the last three days!  Here my Rainbow Butterfly fairy is in very good company. 

This delightful "fantasy" treasury was put together by Yael of FABRIC CRAFT on Etsy.  THANKS, Yael!  Yael has two Etsy shops.  Her other shop is called PAZZAPAZZA

Here is a link to the above FANTASY treasury, if you'd like to check out the delightful fantasy items in the individual shops.

FANTASY - A Crack in Time

BE THANKFUL TREASURY

I just found out my Native American inspired Fairy made it into a treasury tonight on Etsy.  This treasury was a collaborative effort by WHATSHERHAME and SANDYSCAPECODORIG'S on Etsy.  Thanks for including me ladies.  Below is the link to this treasury if you'd like to visit the shops and get a better view of what each shop has to offier.

BE THANKFUL TREASURY

FEATURED ETSY SHOP - PICCOLINA DESIGNS

Bobbing for Apples Tutu

The "Bobbing for Apples Tutu" is created with a spectrum of apple hues in Gala red, Golden Delicious and Granny Smith green tulle. A truly scrumptious treat for your little girl!

WELCOME, Mia and her Etsy shop, PICCOLINA DESIGNS. What will you find at PICCOLINA DESIGNS......?  The most darling colorful tutus to make YOUR little one look like a princess!  The colors are enchanting, and Mia will be happy to work with you on a custom order, so be sure to pay her shop a visit.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

When I discovered I was pregnant with my daughter, I began looking for modern children's clothing and was surprised to find that there weren't a lot of options. It inspired me to pull out my sewing machine and start making them myself. When she was about six months old, and becoming a mobile maniac, I decided to purchase her a tutu for a six month photo shoot. I had a vision in my mind of what I wanted, but could not find what I was looking for... and it spiraled from there. I had several friends and family members with young daughters who were endowed with tutu gifts, and I began getting orders through word of mouth. I recently started my website and Etsy site, and it has been a wonderful experience. The craft community is so supportive of each other, and have helped make it a smooth transition into the online business. It is extremely rewarding when someone falls in love with something you design.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I usually am inspired by my daughter to create something. I make my first design for her, and the most enjoyable part is seeing her enjoy wearing it!

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

Interesting question! Definitely a fruit, as tutus are full of sweetness. My choice would be an apple. They come in a variety of bold colors and I have been inspired by the apple orchards & Tree Adventure of Nebraska City to create one of my tutus (the 'Bobbing for Apples Tutu').

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

My profession is as an interior designer, so I am fortunate to be able to live out my other medium of choice. Our society spends most of our time in a built environment, and it is a real joy to design a positive place for people to spend their days.

TWILIGHT TUTU - Size Small

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

Life is full of whimsy. Nothing profound, but all the same.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

As I mentioned before, the craft community is an incredibly welcoming group of talented people. I would recommend getting involved in the craft community, whether participating in Etsy forums or a local group of artisans, they are great sources of information and support.

THANKS, Mia, for taking the time to share your thoughts and enchanting tutus with all of us.  To learn more about Mia and her creations, be sure to visit the links below.

PICCOLINA DESIGNS WEBPAGE

Artist's Review of - 20th WINTER ART FESTIVAL in MADISON, WI

Information Booth at the 20th Annual Winter Art Festival in Madison, WI

This past weekend I was an exhibitor in my favorite art show......the 20TH ANNUAL WINTER ART FESTIVAL in Madison, WI.  This is one of the best fine art shows in the area, and is sponsored and produced by the Wisconsin Alliance of Artists and Craftspeople (WAAC).  WAAC is made up of a very dedicated group of Wisconsin artists who not only organize and run the show, but also exhibit their art in the show.  It is through the hard work and dedication of this special group of artists that many other Wisconsin artists are provided with this high class venue in which to exhibit and sell their work!  If you'd like to learn more about the Wisconsin Alliance of Artists and Craftspeople organization click on the link below:

WAAC

The show is held in Madison's beautiful Monona Terrace Convention Center on Lake Monona.

Monona Terrace Convention Center on Lake Monona

Most artists set their booths up the Friday evening before the show, which makes it really nice.  It takes the pressure out of having to get up in the wee hours of the morning, having to drive to the location and then rush to set up the morning of the show.

Below is a photo of a portion of my booth after my sister and I set it up on Friday.  My sister is my display artist as she enjoys arranging the booth and figuring out where everything will look the best.  What would I do without her!!  I just help with setting up the gridwall.

My sister and best friend.  We have such fun at these shows!

Part of my display of my newest creations....Fairy Face Pins/Knit Necklace Sets

These new designs were a BIG hit, and by the end of the weekend I only had several left!

The 20th Winter Art Festival had 134 exhibitors this year, with a wide range of high quality art ranging from, Ceramics, Fiber, Glass, Graphics, Jewelry, Mixed 2-D, Mixed 3-D, Painting, Photography, Sculpture and Wood.

The attendance was good.  In fact, Sunday, which is usually a slower day at two days shows, seemed to be more steady than on Saturday!  I was very happy with my sales, and from the few artists I got to talk to about sales, they seemed satisfied also. 

During the show, when I had a moment, I took some photos of the different artists and their work to give you all an idea of the wonderful art that one can find at this show.  I wish I would have been able to get a few more photos as the work is so varied.  Below are several photos, and the artist's information if it was available. (All of the photos and information is being used with the artist's permission)

Lorraine Ortner-Blake - Graphic Design and Calligraphy

Lorraine was our booth neighbor again this year. A delightful person and wonderful artist!  She is also very active in the WAAC with the newletter and graphic design.

Lorraine uses water media - including watercolor, gouache and hand-ground inks along with found objects, handmade paper, and gold leaf.  Her work couples quotations from the wise with expressive letter forms and colorful nature-based illustrations.

To learn more about Lorraine and to see her lovely art, and inspirational cards visit her web site by clicking on the link below:

LORRAINE

REVIVE

VIVIAN SMITH - Madison, WI

Gorgeous handpainted silk garments!!

Vivian doesn't have a web page, but if you'd like to contact her about her garments, here is her email address:  revivedesigns@lycos.com

GRAND RIVER POTTERY

Susan & Eric Anderson

from Markesan, WI

Email: grpottery@hotmail.com

Beautiful, Beautiful pottery!!  The nature shapes are exquisite!

EAST SIDE BAGS

Portable Works of Art

by Artist, Jane M. Miller of Madison, WI

To learn more about Jane and her colorful "portable works of art", click on her blog link below:

EAST SIDE BAGS

HOPFINGER STUDIO

by Jenni Hopfinger

Hand-painted Truly Functional Glassware

for the every day celebrations of life, love, family and friendship

To learn more about Jenni and her glass art, visit her web page by clicking on the link below:

HOPFINGER STUDIO

RUSSELWORKS

Kim and Rob Russell

Spring Green, WI

Kim Russell

Below are several photos as shown on RUSSELWORKS web page.  To see and learn a lot more about these talented woodworking artists, be sure to pay a visit to the RUSSELWORKS web page by clicking on the link below.  There you will be able to see a lot more of the FANTASTIC creations, and even see Kim at work on a project.

RUSSELWORKS

Bird "Orni"ments

Sandhill Crane Sculpture

CRYSALIS

Pamela Bronk, Leather Artisan

Pamela's Artist Statement below:

"Using images derived from nature and classic Japanese design allows me to explore different themes and surface techniques on my handbags. Over the years I have incorporated many techniques, from beadwork to airbrushing to hand painting to stamping and embossing. I have some classic shapes I keep returning to, but my surface treatment of these classics continues to subtly evolve and change as I explore. I am constantly finding fresh inspiration in nature, art, and travel. I have been involved in the midwest crafts circuit for decades and am consistently impressed by the fresh ideas I see around me. I draw from all these forms of inspiration and return to my craft with a strengthened resolve to try new techniques.

I create my unique bags and accessories in my studio in the Wisconsin countryside. When creating my handiwork I strive to construct bags that are durable and functional, as well as creative and beautiful."

You can see more of Pamela's wonderful work by visiting her web page...just click on the BRONK ART link below:

BRONK ART


M. A. KATKE

Gourd Artisan

Friendship, WI

M.A. has been a working artist since the mid-sixties, including drawing, ceramics, textiles and scrimshaw on ivory.  Her major work was metal smithing and jewelry.  Her interests have now drifted to gourds (grown by friends).  The designs get started with light pencil sketches on the surface. Next is the permanent drawing with a wood-burner.  Some of M.A. finished gourds are for interior decorating, while others are functional such as birdhouses and ornaments. 

What beautiful, detailed work!

If you would like to get in touch with this artist, her email address is:

m.a.katke@hotmail.com

The above artists are just a very few of the many fabulous artists who exhibit in the Winter Art Festival each year.  If you live in the area and have never attended this show, be sure to mark your calendars for next year's show which is being held on November 13 & 14 - 2010.  WAAC's summer show, ART FAIR OFF THE SQUARE will be held July 10 & 11 - 2010.

I'd like to thank all of the people who make this show possible. Also, a special "thank you" to the artists who let me take photos of their work for this article.

I for one am already looking forward to next's year show!!

THE WINNER of "A LIttle Something from Japan" GIVEAWAY is.......

Antique Necklace

JODIE from CANADA!!

CONGRATULATIONS, JODIE!!

Dave of FOLDING CRANES on Etsy had me host his giveaway for "A Little Something From Japan".  Winner got to choose from 5 delightful items from Dave's shop, one of which was the beautiful antique necklace pictured above.  Jodie chose the necklace as her prize, and will be receiving it directly from Dave.

Jodie's entry was randomly selected out of the 97 entries received for this giveaway.

A big "thank you" to all of you who entered this giveaway, and for your lovely comments.

There are two giveaways currently running on DZFANTASY.  To enter either giveaway all you have to do is click on the giveaway photo in the right hand column of this blog.

More giveaways are always being added so do stop back for a visit.

FEATURED ETSY SHOP -BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY

All the blues necklace

by Alison of BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY

A lot of blue semi precious stones – howlite, lapis malachite, amazonite and turquoise make up this statement necklace. The howlite irregular chunks are the best shade of turquoise blue, sitting alongside true turquoise beads with their lovely matrix. The amazonite beads reflect sea greens and blues, and the lapis malachite beads are the deepest cobalt blue with flecks of bottle green. All are strung on a sky blue beading cord which is knotted between each bead for a classic spaced out look.


WELCOME, Alison and her Etsy shop, BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY.  Pay a visit to BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY and you will find a wonderful selection of Alison's designs of necklaces, earrings and bracelets.  Alison uses semi-pecious stones, silver and silver tones in her designs.

First, take a moment to learn a bit more about Alison by reading her delightful interview below. It always makes it a little more interesting when you know something about the artist.


What led you to start creating your art/craft?


My grandmother must be where my love of making things comes from. She created most of her own clothes and knitted and crocheted in every spare minute. She liked to use beads and sequins, and on Christmas Day she would always appear in a new creation heavily embellished and looking like a queen. I can’t remember much distinctive jewellery, but times were different then and the selection was mostly diamonds and gold gate bracelets. She would have loved today’s choice of modern and eclectic designs. She could shop all day, so the Internet and Etsy would have been heaven for her.


My paternal grandmother was a real stylish lady by all accounts. I never met her, but pictures of her show how fashion conscious she was. As a child, I spent many a happy hour dressing up in her beautiful 1920s flapper-style wedding dress. It was heavy with beads and seed pearls, and short enough for a little girl to model without tripping over it! She was a bit of a freethinker too, causing a scandal by marrying the gardener when her husband died at an early age, and hosting garden parties to show him off! Their delightfully planned garden survives to this day – a haven of ferns, roses and fuchsias.

Cleopatra earrings

Imperial turquoise” (or dyed chocolate jasper) combined with turquoise beads, deep orange-red carnelian beads and sterling silver. A beautiful mixture of blues, browns and reds, these beads each have character and the signature of nature upon them. This is a combination truly fit for an empress, and reminds me of ancient Egyptian jewellery in the British Museum. Tiny floral sterling silver spacers add to the tailored look of these graduated earrings.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I’d always made my own clothes, but never really thought it was possible to make your own jewellery without doing real silversmithing. So I just used to tinker with things I’d bought from shops and always be saying ‘One day I’ll go on a course and learn how to make my own.’ Then online shopping takes off, and I suddenly realize you can buy your own tools and supplies, and since then, well, there’s been no stopping me!

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

A while ago I would have said just the whole process of making, but since I’ve been selling, it’s now the feedback from customers and, for custom orders I’ve had, seeing people wearing and enjoying the jewellery. In terms of techniques, at the moment I’m really enjoying stringing and knotting and using semi-precious stones to make statement necklaces and bracelets to fit in with the current trend for all things big, colourful and bold.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

Had to think hard about this one, but I think I like the idea of my jewellery being like grapes – sweet, colourful and beautiful to eat as they are, with the potential to be converted into something exciting and intoxicating!

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

I love travel and photographing places, so that would have to be my alternative.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

That women can use jewellery to boost their confidence, to help them achieve what they want, to be individual, and for the sheer pleasure of wearing something beautiful.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

"Keep smiling and don’t worry" – that was the sampler my grandma had up in her house. It’s the best advice I’ve ever had and it applies to all situations!

Alison, thanks so much for sharing your wonderful designs and for giving all of us a little "peek" into your thoughts and ideas.

To learn more about Alison and BLUE FOREST JEWELLERY, be sure to visit her links below.
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