i am inspired

Linoprinting at the speed crafting event.......

2012-02-15T01:48:00.004-08:00

Last Thursday night was the speed crafting event at the Brentwood Road Gallery and I just wanted to share some of the great prints that people created on the night. These were their first attempts which I thought were brilliant. Thanks to everyone who came and had a go and made it a really enjoyable evening!

The whole night flew by and I got so busy I didn't get the chance to get more pictures of the other results from the youngsters that had a go. I didn't even get the chance to look at the other great crafts on offer and the exhibition next door which was celebrating its finale night. I got told there were some amazing lino prints in the exhibition so i'm gutted I missed that!

Lorraine was also there on the night showing her brilliant knitting skills. Lorraine runs the group Clickers that's at the centre on a Thursday night, 7-9pm. If you're interested in knitting or anything crafty then pop along as its a lovely group and Lorraine is a little fountain of knowledge that can show you anything you want to learn! I used to go to the group before I had the little one and made so many great things.

Kirsten

Busy, busy, busy.........

2012-02-08T09:19:00.000-08:00

So to start off with thanks everyone who came along to the Private View and have been visiting the exhibition at the Arc in Old Harlow. It's still running so if you're near by pop along as it's a lovely venue with a little cafe. It's a converted church which is being used as a community centre with a new extension on the side which houses the gallery and cafe. It's also in the middle of Old Harlow which has some lovely old buildings.

It's another busy week and this Thursday is the speed crafting event at The Brentwood Road Gallery. I'll be demonstrating linoprinting and if you fancy making your own valentines card pop along and have a go.

This Saturday is the Valentine's Vintage Fair at Wanstead, next to the library. I designed the poster and drew the girl especially so i'm going to add her to my range of cards. I've also been making some valentines cards from vintage papers especially for the event and got asked by my other half if he could have mates rates! If I sell one to him atleast i'm gauranteed to get one!

If you're around Walthamstow this Saturday it's the launch of the Wood Street Indoor Market. They've completely filled the space with lots of artists, designers and vintage sellers and this Saturday is a whole array of fun activities to entice you along......

Collective exhibition......

2012-01-30T02:26:00.000-08:00

I'm very excited to announce we have our first exhibition of the year starting this week at St Johns Arc Gallery in Harlow. It's a collective exhibition along with the staff and workers of Sap Studios, at the Snaresbrook Arts Project. The Project, for those of you that haven't heard us talking about it before, is an arts project which employs adults with learning difficulties who make and sell art and craft items. The staff at the Project are a wide and talented group of people and this exhibition is a chance for them to exhibit their artistic talents along side work from the artists at the studios. It's a wide mix of work from photography, painting, textiles and print so hopefully something for everything.

The Private View is this Thursday night 6-8pm at the gallery where you can meet all the artists, hope to see you there.

Kirsten

Speed Crafting night......

2012-01-23T11:17:00.000-08:00

Pop along to The Brentwood Road Gallery at Frances Bardsley School on 9th February for a night of speed crafting. I'll be demonstrating lino printing but there's also knitting, cross stitch, jewellery making, cupcake decorating and you can even make your own bath salts.

So come along meet some crafty people, grab a glass of wine and even get the chance to pick up a gift for Valentines day or just treat yourself!

Kirsten x

Flowers and our first fair....

2012-01-11T04:53:00.000-08:00

Last week end my friend came round for a visit and bought me these lovely flowers which inspired me to paint. There's something about flowers that inspires me to draw and paint them...

The irises are looking a bit sorry for themselves now but here they were in their full glory.....

Also if you have no plans this Saturday then pop along to the January Sale Fair in Wanstead - with loads of bargains to be had! This is our first fair of the year so starting in full swing! I designed the poster for the event as well, the inspiration was Victorian black and white adverts.

Kirsten x

Happy New Year......

2012-01-01T03:39:00.000-08:00

I was really quiet last year as I wasn't too well, with my asthma and I have been in hospital a few times and I am still waiting for more tests.

The family kept me busy, having grand children is the best! I went to see Maisie in her nativity at playschool, she also won the angel competition at the mother and toddler group, apparently they had never seen so much glitter on an angel - I think she gets that from me, and she was awarded a prize and certificate at the Chris Dingle service which I had never been to before. We also took Ellie and Maisie to see Father Christmas, which was lovely.

At Christmas I had a full house again and cooked a goose, as my son Nathan fancied it, a turkey and a leg of lamb, as Kirstens partner is a kiwi and doesn’t eat turkey or goose! It was a lovely day with no kitchen disasters! Here's Maisie 'helping' Eloise open her presents....

I have still been working hard and have had some very good classes. I have been teaching City and Guilds Machine Embroidery and City and Guilds Patchwork as well as my day at Snaresbrook art project. I also started attending a jewelry making class in Romford with a girl called Di. She is brilliant and has a shop in romford (www.dizzydi.co.uk) the classes are £10 for a two hour session and you get all the materials too!!!!!!!!!!

Here are some of the things I have been making, as you can see i've got a bit addicted....

I have been working on bits and bobs as Kirsten and I have been selling our work, most of the time I have been working on things that sell rather than on exhibition pieces.

My husband and I have been going to Barleylands on a lampwork course, making glass beads, it has been really nice to do something together and after the class we go for lunch, another added bonus. Talking of Barleylands, I went to see Linda Monk of Purple Missus on Sunday Craft Arena where she was signing her book and had all the samples on show, I have done a class with Linda and she is brilliant so needless to say I bought her book. I also bumped into Sharie from Sharne's Bit 'n' Bobs and Jill from Vintagerockchick. So needless to say I felt very inspired when I left everyone so watch this space I think I will start a piece for an exhibition...

Sharon

Thawing out......

2011-12-08T02:16:00.000-08:00

We braved the cold at the week end to do the craft fair at The Old Slate Yard in Forest Gate. There were lots of numb toes all round but it was a really good atmosphere especially on Sunday when everyone came by to see the nativity and join in the christmas carols.......

We've got this week end off but am back next week end at The Sparkle Fair in Wanstead, luckily inside for this one so we'll be nice and cosey. It'll be a great chance to get any last minute christmas presents.

I'm off to Winter Wonderland tomorrow for our girlie annual trip to Hyde Park for a good old dose of Christmas joy. If I can manage buggy, baby and camera in between all the crowds i'll try to take some pics. Also it's the first time of braving the underground with 2 buggies and hoards of Christmas shoppers, so wish us luck!

Kirsten x

Christmas market updates.....

2011-11-28T09:31:00.000-08:00

So Friday was my first market since having the little one and my first night out without her. The E17 Designers market are always great fun, sounds really cheesy but I think they're such a good atmosphere with lots of music and people getting merry on their free drink! There was a surreal moment when an exotic and glamorous belly dancer took to the stage which kept all the men happy. The dancer teaches at my mum's college, Waltham Forest, it looks like great fun and perfect way to get toned up for the summer!

So this week end in conjunction with the Forest Gate Art Trail is a christmas indoor market at the Old Slate Yard. It's quite unusual to have an art trail in winter but it makes a nice change. The lady who runs it got inspired from the Victorian Christmas markets and so decided to try and create one herself with lots of Christmas trees, wreaths and handmade christmas gifts on offer. I've managed to get together some new pictures of 50's girls at the hairdressers.........

We've also got some new jewellery and beaded bookmarks on offer which my mum has been busy making. She made a couple of bracelets for me which I haven't taken off since she gave them to me a month ago!

Upcoming christmas events....

2011-11-11T08:23:00.000-08:00

We're finally getting back to business and these are the first upcoming events.

Firstly is the infamous E17 Designers Christmas on 25th and 26th November, we're doing the Friday night but there's a wide selection of designer makers on the different days and you only need to pay the once. I think these are great events with music, a free drink and free raffle prizes (goodie bags of a selection of items donated from the designers)....

Then we've got some of our prints and cards at The Create Place's Xmas pop up shop on Sunday 27th November, 11-4pm. All items are under £20, great for little Christmas gifts, and with free mince pies and mulled wine what more could you want......

Halloween treat....

2011-11-01T03:20:00.000-07:00

I usually like to carve a pumpkin for halloween but this year I had a better idea.....

apparently it's cruel to dress up your kids for your own entertainment but I couldn't resist : )

I also have to tell you about Zaki's, a new Turkish restaurant on Wanstead High Street, where these pics were taken for my sisters' birthday dinner. Definitely worth a visit as it's great food, I can't remember what my dinner was called but it was an amazing dish of turkish stew on top of smoked creamy aubergine (recommended by the waiter and definitely the best choice as it gave everyone else food envy!!).

It's a bit late in the making but I put together this little brag book for Paul's mum in New Zealand. I kept it really simple and plain as I know that's what she'll prefer, I just have to get round to posting it.......

For illustration lovers....

2011-10-11T09:58:00.001-07:00

out there the Cartoon Museum in London is hosting a book launch for 'Making Great Illustration',taking place on Tuesday 18th October. There will be a display of artwork from the book along with food and drink on the night. Shame I can't make it but it sounds really good,especially with the line up of artists:

Making Great Illustration is a fascinating look at some of the world’s best illustrators, providing an insight into the creation of illustration from concept to finished work. Featuring exclusive interviews and images of work and studios, this beautiful book provides a rare insight into the unique perspective, approach and artwork of artists not available elsewhere.

Illustrators featured include: Quentin Blake, Rob Ryan, Marian Bantjes, Javier Mariscal, Ronald Searle, Oliver Jeffers, Kitty Crowther, David McKean and many more. They cover all types of illustration: design and advertising, fiction, decorative illustration and merchandising, editorial and political illustration, typograhical, children’s publishing, graphic literature, fashion illustration, topographical illustration and authorial practice.

Section introductions from: The Conran Shop, The Folio Society, Musee Les Arts Decoratifs, New York Times, SAKS 5th Avenue, Candlewick Press USA, First Second (Pan Macmillan), Christian Lacroix, The Times and Adrian Shaughnessy.

Get ready for Halloween.....

2011-10-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

Make With Me, in aid of the learning disability charity Mencap, is getting set for Halloween with a host of great ideas to get making with children this year.

Bespoke cake maker Lily Vanilli has donated her devilishly delicious Edible Bones recipe, as well as Sublime Stitching’s Gothic Grandeur spooky pattern. Also check out National Geographic Kids’ Magazine ‘Halloween Make Over Cards’ and top tips on How to carve the perfect Pumpkin, all free to download now at www.makewithme.org.uk.

Lily Vanilli says: “I love Halloween baking, it’s such a great theme to be creative with. I came up with the bone recipe idea when writing my book 'A Zombie ate my Cupcake'. I love Make With Me, it's such a great idea to get people socialising and baking in this way. I hope you have a great time this Halloween baking my scary bones, partying and raising funds for Mencap and people with a learning disability.”

Jenny Hart says: "Embroidery patterns are usually so sweet, but not these! My favourites are the rat and the raven. You could make a Halloween wall hanging to spooky your place up a bit. Stitch words like "Come Into My Lair" with the spider webs and drippy candles to set the right creepy tone for your Halloween home!"

New little addition......

2011-09-15T03:52:00.000-07:00

It's been ages since I last did a post and here's why, our new little cute bundle Eloise Anna Adams finally arrived, a week late, last Tuesday in the early hours of the morning.

Here she is meeting her cousin for the first time on her second day in the world.....

Looking adorable (obviously i'm a biased mum already and think she's the cutest thing!) in a new baby outfit, she came out a little bigger than I thought at 8lb 4oz but I still managed to squeeze her into this...

Her new favourite position in the evening, hanging out with daddy.....

It's been just over a week now, so i'm hoping to start cracking on with new work and sharing it all with you. There's also some classes we're hoping to get going in Havering so watch this space.

Kirsten

Better late than never.....

2011-07-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

I was going to post some pics ages ago of the vase I got for my birthday, as usual i'm a little late but here it is. The artist has some amazing and affordable pieces so next time you're in Brighton go to the Hummingbird Studios to check her out, Bebe Bird at the Hummingbird Studio.

I've got into making lately and made this cute dolly for the New Zealand Dolly Appeal. The idea being that people make dollies and softies to donate to the little ones whose lives were devastated from the earthquakes. There's lots of good causes to donate to, click here to go to the main site, but I chose New Zealand as my other half is from there. Hopefully it will go to a good home for someone who doesn't mind it coming a bit late!

Kirsten

Kaleidoskope......

2011-07-04T05:14:00.001-07:00

The Guild of Silk Painters invite you to......

Taking place at:
Wanstead House, The Green, Wanstead, London E11 2NT

On July 23rd & 24th 2011
10.00 am - 5 .00 pm

Exhibitions * Workshops * Demonstrations * Sales * Competitions * and much more...

www.essexsilkpainters.co.uk

Come, Join Us and Bring Your Friends too, for a wonderful creative day.

Artsmart this week end......

2011-06-30T05:53:00.000-07:00

This weekend my old uni, University of the Arts London, launches Artsmart, a two-day celebration of creative endeavour including a market, talks programme and a recruitment fair.

With more than 100 stalls, Artsmart market promises to showcase the very latest in art, design and fashion from the University’s alumni.

To find out more go to: http://www.artsmartlondon.co.uk/

Taking place on Friday to Saturday
At Rootstein Hopkins Parade Ground, 16 John Islip Street, London, SW1P 4JU
One day pass £5 (concessions £3.50) Two day pass £9 (concessions £5)
Tickets on the day £6

Graphic arts, Yann Brien

It's pay day....

2011-06-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

so if you have nothing planned for the week end there's a few great events happening over in Walthamstow. Firstly is the Down Town flash shop for fashion from some of the E17 Designers, starting tonight and continuing tomorrow at the Old Glass Factory.......

Then tomorrow night is the "Picture Show" from the E17 Art House, who are putting on this exhibition of film inspired artworks from local East London artists, designers and photographers. Starting tomorrow night from 7pm......

This one isn't until a few weeks time but I took part last year and it was a great family day out, well I didn't have any kids last year but I still had a really good time in the sunshine drinking beer and listening to a great mix of music.....

UK Handmade Summer Showcase.....

2011-06-13T05:14:00.000-07:00

I'm suffering from bad baby brain lately and have only recently discovered that we were showcased on the UK Handmade Summer Showcase. Click here to see more of the lovely items being showcased.

I'm hoping to get my brain and my memory back soon but even the midwife told me that it's downhill from now on - oh dear!!

Kirsten

Dazed and Refused Private View.....

2011-06-10T05:06:00.001-07:00

I thought this was a great idea....

Dazed and Refused

PRIVATE VIEW
Thursday 16th June, time 7 –11

Hurwendeki

299 Railway Arches Cambridge Heath Road London E2 9HA

Exhibiton runs until Sunday 10^th July

(exhibition open 7am-7pm Monday to Friday, 9am-7pm Saturday to Sunday, during Café hours)

It’s tough when your work is unloved but the artists rejected from this year’s BP Portrait Award show that even though they may be down, they’re not out, by staging their own Salon Des Refusés exhibition. Paintings will for sale on opening night from the exhibition of a total of 55 refused artists.– the same number as can be found in the BP exhibition.Entries have been sent from Chelmsford, Cambridge, Birmingam, Margate and Mexico...

www.dazedandrefused.com

Some of the rejected artists with their work......

Very cute little one......

2011-05-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

It's my neice's birthday soon and I was asked to put this little birthday invite together for her in the theme of Peppa Pig as that's her favourite at the moment! Everytime she see's it she makes the piggy noise! She's so cute I just had to share it with you.....

Brighton and Hove Artists Open Houses....

2011-05-23T05:03:00.000-07:00

This week end we went to Brighton and Hove for their annual Artists Open Houses event where all the local artists open their houses and studios to let you in and see their amazing work.

There's a lot to see with over 254 venues on their map so we picked a few areas and hit them with full force, leaving us incredibly party pooped but full of inspiration at the end of the week end.

Here are a few of my favourites that I saw along the way....

My favourite prints were at the Ink Spot Press which had a mixture of amazing and incredibly professional prints. The kind that I one day hope to be able to create!

Hebe Vernon-Morris' prints at the Printhouse:

Thea Telfords work at Betty and Friends:

This was an amazing house and collection of art work, Polish and Pin, where they had a cafe take over their kitchen to supply lovely home made food which you could enjoy on the terraced garden:

Martha Mitchell at Albert Mews Studio had amazing little tiles with her illustrations on:

Also in the Hove area is Nigel French who had some amazing photography and prints at very reasonable prices. If only it had been pay day!!

This was another amazing house and garden, Deryk Parkin at Stables Studio. The other great thing about the Open Houses is seeing all the amazing houses that people live in, you've probably guessed i'm incredibly nosey : ) but this one is definitely worth going out of your way for a visit.
Another amazing house and great collection of work was at the Dragonfly House, which also has a great picture framer if you need it. This was the work of Vanessa Rattray which I love, with the kind of detail on her pictures that you can stare at for ages and always see something new.

I couldn't leave without getting something so on one of our last visits I got a piece of pottery from Bebe Bird at the Hummingbird Studio for my birthday next week. I absolutely love it and got to talk to the artist who created it, mainly about my clumsiness and how not to break it in future! I'll post a pic in situ when I receive it, hopefully all in one piece!!

Kirsten

Thanks to everyone....

2011-05-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

who popped along to see us on Friday night at the E17 Designers Spring Market.

It was the usual last minute panic for us we rushed around trying to get everything together and even wrapping new works of art just as we were about to leave but we managed to scrape through the doors and get set up just in time. So after a manic rush to get there it was a really lovely relaxed evening with great music supplied by local band The Stowicks and some great cakes from Susie's kitchen!

Here's a few pics from the night.....

Where does all the time go.....

2011-05-11T02:39:00.000-07:00

Feels like we haven't been creative enough lately, especially with trying to sell my flat and buy a house it seems like the past couple of months have flown by! Which reminds me why is it that when you sell your place it's the tidiest, cleanest and best it's ever looked?! Will have to pretend that we're selling our house when we move in so that it stays in the same lovely condition : )

But we have been doing bits inbetween. Here are some silk scarves I made, I actually made loads as I got a bit addicted but have packed those away for Friday's E17 Designers market and these ones are yet to be packaged up.

I love using subtle tones so that when you look at some you can see subtle hints of a variety of colour coming through, like this middle one....

Here is a bundle of new cards from my sketches.....

A few of my faves....

And here is a new stash based on some mixed media work I created for an Art Trail event at the William Morris Gallery, so yep you guessed it inspired by William Morris (apart from the print of Boats which was taken from my holiday snaps in Morrocco).

I'm hoping to be doing some new prints as I love printing and just haven't been doing enough lately! But where to find the time! I did get some good advice from Etsy (check it out: http://zenhabits.net/small-scale/) so hopefully i'll get there step by step and i'll be showing you some new prints soon, well that's the plan : )

Kirsten

Etsy Recylced Vases....

2011-04-18T06:05:00.000-07:00

I love going through Etsy's blog, I probably spend a bit too much time reading than doing but you come across great things like this......

http://www.etsy.com/storque/make/how-tuesday-make-a-recycled-vase-12566/

Created by artist and creative reuse whiz Lee Christopher Hughes these recycled vases are a great idea.

And here are some of his great items from his Etsy shop:

These are perfect gifts for when you're on a budget plus they're good for the environment!

Rag Factory Exhibition....

2011-04-18T05:23:00.000-07:00

Last week we entered some pieces into an impromptu exhibition at the Rag Factory, off Brick Lane.

'ForSee-Arts of Mind' was a mixed media exhibition of established/up and coming artists ranging from paintings, filmakers, sculpture to photography, who came together to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease. The exhibition collected one piece donated by each artist/photographer to be auctioned off on closing night to raise funds for Parkinsons UK Charity.

Here is the lovely organiser, Jessica Sarah, who did a great job organising the whole exhibition as part of her degree course:

Here are our pieces we entered (it's a shame that the bottom one hasn't come out that great but in-situ it looked really good, honest!!):

Here are some of the other artists:

Including Neil Benjamin, whose work I loved, you could stand for hours looking at it and still find something new in there... See more of his work on his website to get a better idea as I forgot to take my nice camera so these really don't do the work much justice!!

and here was some great work by new and upcoming illustrator Lucy Wragg:

Still feeling the joys of spring......

2011-04-12T05:01:00.000-07:00

has put me in the mood to do some spring / summer sketches.

I'm going to print them out and add some watercolour in lovely uplifting colours too whilst the sun is still shining!

A little late but if you're in Wanstead today....

2011-04-11T01:57:00.000-07:00

then pop along to......

Fame at last....

2011-04-06T06:46:00.000-07:00

Just a quick word of thanks to everyone who came to support us at the Wanstead Art and Craft Fair on Saturday. It was such a lovely day so it was great to see so many people wandering in and out.

So fame at last, even though I am a granny, with my work being featured on the Embroiders Guild website. For more information about the exhibition click here.

Also on there are the Marottes by my friend Jill Birleson.

Sharon

Another one for your diaries....

2011-04-01T05:06:00.000-07:00

The next E17 Designers' market has been booked for Friday 13th May so make sure to put it in your diaries. Spring is one of my favourite seasons, as I get fed up with all of the black, grey and brown colours that surround us in Winter along comes Spring with an abundance of colour and suddenly everything seems happy and cheerful. So pop along and make sure to see an abundance of colour that is sure to lift the spirits......

Last minute mother's day gifts....

2011-03-31T05:36:00.000-07:00

If you still haven't got your mum a pressie or card for Mother's Day then pop along to the Art, Design & Craft Fair this Saturday in Wanstead. It's just upstairs at The George Pub so grab some lunch then pop along and show your mum how much you love her with some handmade goodies. There's also a special feature of textile art from local textile artists.....

The joys of spring......

2011-03-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

There's something about the sunshine that makes you want to get out and about. So if you're feeling the joys of spring and wondering what to get up to this weekend head to the Country Living Spring Fair at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London. The Snaresbrook Arts Project are at stand T14 and have been busy making some lovely handmade spring and summer gifts. I've been cracking the whip hard with them to get enough stock and I'm so proud at what they've produced.

Even looking at the show's website makes me feel happy with all the bright and lively spring colours.

Mother's day gifts......

2011-03-15T06:31:00.000-07:00

Hi,

We're going to be featuring at an art, design and craft fair on Saturday 2nd April, just before Mother's Day. So we've been beavering away creating some lovely mother's day gifts, mainly silk scarves which I have to admit I have been getting addicted to painting. I get really free and experiment with colour and technique which I rarely do on canvas so it feels really refreshing. As soon as I have some pics i'll upload to see what you think.

Anyway here are the details so if you're in the area pop along, it sounds like a great little quirky venue with lots of great artists and designer makers.

All quiet on the blogging front......

2011-03-01T06:08:00.000-08:00

We've been a bit quiet on the old blog lately as i've just spent a month in New Zealand and my mum still hasn't quite grasped modern day technology!!

So I thought i'd fill you in on a few pics, no not to brag but seeing as my friends and family consider them 'boring pictures' I thought i'd share them with some other arty people who might appreciate them.

To start with.... the reason we went to NZ was for Ben's, Paul's older brother, wedding.
Here is me with Paul, we've just been told to get closer and look like we love eachother for the picture......

The happy couple.....
It was a really beautiful wedding but in typical English weather style it rained all day!! Still didn't stop everyone having a good time.

The landscape is amazing and beautiful with typical scenes like this one.... on a good sunny day!

I got a bit trigger happy taking pics of trees and branches (I think I took over 200 but I won't bore anyone with those!)

The sand dunes at the top of the North Island

Rotorua and the hot springs - though the steam felt like it would take your skin off let alone jumping in for a dip!

Everywhere you go you see forests of timber, then at the dockyards you see hundreds of trunk, which make for great pictures

Some maori art - they use the paua shell to decorate them which bring them to life as the eyes seem to glare at you.

A sculpture piece in Auckland - I think its a famous australian sculpture artist but i'm not sure. It was great walking around the city and stumbling upon something like this.
The lack of people had it's upside, meaning we had our very own private beach, simply amazing and beautiful.

As we drove along we took in a vast amount of amazing scenery, not wanting to annoy Paul and stop every 5 minutes I tried taking shots from the car like this one, this is one of the more successful ones as they're all slightly wonky and I seemed to manage to get a post or tree in the way!!

One of New Zealands oldest building, which is funny as it looks fairly new compared to some of our buildings.

I also managed to hunt down some art deco buildings in the town of Napier. The whole town was wiped out by an earthquake in the 30's so most of it had to be re-built meaning there are amazing art deco buildings throughout the whole town. I love them so much I think i'm going to work on a new set of lino prints.

Lastly some pics of the hippy bus which pulled up every night on the road we were staying in and disappeared every morning, i'd love to know where it went for the day. I thought it looked so cool against the pure blue sky and I love the way it's been painted.

2011-01-13T02:26:00.000-08:00

Well I have nearly finished the two pieces for the Embroidery Guilds exhibition.

Wendy bought white canvas for all the Guild members to take home and then sew whatever way they wanted, the only clause being that it had to be white. I started well and all was looking white until I thought why not add some iridescent white sequins and some iridescent machine embroidery, both seem to be white but then I discovered they change to pink when being used!! Oops so I’ve broken the rules already and I’ve only just started!

They should have been handed in on Saturday but I have been so busy that I haven’t managed to finish them but they are nearly there. Here are some pics…..

The grey one I am calling French beach. I bought an experimental pack by Stef Francis from Craft Arena and with my embellisher made a background with the pack. I love using the embellishing machine as its so quick and easy. I then took it to France to sew but I didn’t do much sewing, having too much fun on my bike! So it seems like I have been working on it for ages and at long last I now have to take it off to the framers for them to put in a box frame.

The Guild Exhibition is called Stitched Up and it runs from 08/02/11 till 18/02/11 It’s being held at the Visual Arts Centre, Romford. For more information please go to the Romford Embroiders Guild web site and look under exhibitions.

Sharon

Getting over Christmas......

2011-01-11T07:07:00.001-08:00

I had some good news before Christmas from the William Morris gallery to say that they had sold my work. I was so pleased to have sold an expensive piece of work at such a great gallery plus the money came in handy for Christmas! So after such a great Christmas I’m now a bit sad that it is over. However I am still hanging on a bit as I bought the new Annie Lennox C.D ‘Christmas Cornucopia’ and keep playing it, I just love it.

This years Christmas food success were Gina’s mince pies. Just before Christmas I did a very enjoyable workshop with her when she came to the Embroiders Guild in Romford. She told me about the mince pies she makes and said her recipe is on her blog, Fan my flame. Every one who came round said they were delicious. If you ever get the opportunity to do a work shop with her I would say do it as not only did I come away with a delightful book I also got a recipe for very good mince pies.

This year five of us from the guild have decided to do an A.T.C swap every month. The theme this month was New Year and I decided to theme mine on my New Year resolution diet. I do this every year and only usually last until February, hopefully this year will be better and I might last until March!

This was my selection of Diet A.T.C's.....

And these are the lovely colourful ones I received.......

Sharon

New Year Resolutions......

2011-01-04T07:01:00.000-08:00

I came across this and thought it would help all you lovely creative people out there to stick to your new years resolutions or even if you've fallen already it will make you feel better and hopefully give you a touch of inspiration....

It's from the women in business website but I don't see why it can't help to inspire men as well : )

Kirsten

Happy new year...

2010-12-31T07:16:00.000-08:00

to everyone. Hope you are still making the most of your Christmas holidays, we're still working our way through a mountain of food we stocked up on!!

We're off to our traditional New Years Eve Indian meal, down the road, then all round to Nathan and Clare's new house (which they just moved into a week before christmas in the snow, but luckily it was just across the road, so Nathan and I now live on the same side of the road!) to see in the new year.

We have to show a picture of the tree - the 7ft tree! When we unwrapped it, it filled the whole of the front room! Here it is even after chopping half of it off! I don't think we'll be sending Chloe to pick out another one again, I feel sorry for Chloe's boyfriend who managed to bring it home on his back whilst dad was walking behind watching! Plus the unlucky one who gets that end of the sofa can't see anything : )

Here's Maisie with a few of her new presents - she got so many she even started to get bored unwrapping them all so we saved some for boxing day and here she is with her new favourite hobby, painting...... she's doing so many we're thinking of selling them......

Recycled Mini-beasts.......

2010-12-17T04:44:00.000-08:00

Here some of you are making your lovely little creations......

with just a little sprinkle of help.....

and here are some of your colourful creations brightening up the tree.....

They looked fantastic!!
Not many ended up on the tree so I think they're hanging proudly at home in your bedrooms!

Recycled Plastic Mini-beasts workshop.......

2010-12-16T09:31:00.000-08:00

....after a bad cold and several wisdom teeth lighter i'm finally going to show you how to make the recycled plastic mini-beasts that I did as a workshop at the William Morris gallery on Sunday 5th December. It was a great day by the way and all the finished butterflies, beetles and worms looked great hanging on the tree outside along with the origami pieces.

So first step:
You will need a selection of plastic bags, I for some reason always have a cupboard full, no idea why but it meant I had a great collection just for this purpose. The more colourful the better but even the tesco and asda ones are good to use as they all have colourful text.......

Take one of the bags and cut in two.....

Take one of the sides, fold in half and cut....

Keep these pieces together, fold in half and cut along the fold.......

Carry on with folding in half and cutting along the fold until you have small strips of plastic.....

About 10 plastic bags later you'll have a little selection to make one sheet's worth of recycled plastic.....

Lay a piece of baking paper either on your ironing board or on top of a towel on a work surface and begin to spread some of the plastic bag strips down. This first layer will be seen on one of your sides so make it as colourful as you wish......

Then fill the middle section. I tend to use the boring plastic bags for this bit such as white supermarket bags as it won't get seen and is just being used to thicken up your plastic sheet....

Then layer the top with the colourful ones again, this christmas M&S one looked great with lots of red and green. Just be aware here that the more layers you use the thicker your final piece of plastic will be but the thinner it is the easier it is for little fingers to cut out......

Then put another sheet of baking paper on top and set the iron on full heat.....

Iron all over starting from one end working to the other and watch it shrink!! It's great to watch as it shrinks so kids will love that bit. When you've done one side all over turn over and do the other side too.....

When you think you're done peel back the paper to see your handiwork. You might get a few patches with holes....

Not to worry just put some more plastic bag strips over the top to cover and iron once more with the paper over it.....

And voila, perfect......

You'll then have made your first piece of recycled plastic....

I love some of the great textures you get when the plastic melts. If you're feeling really arty and have time to spare then play with the different textures. Whoever thought plastic bags could be so artistically beautiful!
I was making mini-beasts so I created some templates, here is a wing I designed for the butterfly which I overlaid onto the plastic and cut out. If you're not that brave just draw round your template and cut out. If you're feeling a bit stuck for a template you can get some from the internet to print off to get your creativity going......

And here's my butterfly. I hole punched some holes and got the children to pin together with some good old pipe cleaners and decorated with gems.

Tomorrow i'll upload some pictures from the tree and the workshop to show you the amazing creations that the children made. This is a really cheap and easy technique that could keep children entertained for ages, they can even make some Christmas tree decorations for their rooms.

Pics from the E17 Deisgners Christmas Event......

2010-12-07T05:30:00.000-08:00

here's the pictures I promised from the E17 Designers event....

here was our stall......

and some pics of the night, after a glass of mulled wine and live music in the background I had a great night soaking up the relaxed festive atmosphere

Winter Wonderland.....

2010-12-03T05:54:00.000-08:00

Last week end we went to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. It was absolutely freezing but an amazing feast for the eyes with an extra dose of festive spirit. Everything you cast your eyes on was Christmas themed so at night time it was lovely.

Here's a few pics which don't really do it any justice, especially as I haven't quite mastered the night settings on my camera, so you should go and check it out for yourself.

I love all the old fashioned fair ground rides they have.....

Thanks to everyone....

2010-12-01T05:15:00.000-08:00

who came along to the E17 Designers Christmas markets at the week end, especially on Friday night to the one we were at. It was absolutely freezing outside so thanks for venturing away from your cosy homes to support us. We had a great night, with help from some mulled wine and live music, and sold lots of items. Now we have to get busy replacing everything we sold!
I'll upload some pics soon.

In the meantime I've just seen UK Handmade's Winter edition.
So make sure to have a flick through as they have some great handmade items, bound to give you heaps of inspiration.

Cute children's cards.....

2010-11-22T05:52:00.000-08:00

After a hectic week getting things together for 'the creative fair' in Loughton we're now a bit exhausted. True to form we were still getting things together on Saturday morning a few hours before the event! Maybe one day we'll be organised and have everything ready weeks in advance so everything runs smoothly, but I can't see it happening anytime soon : )

I made some new baby and children's cards for the event with the below images and sold out.... so will have to frantically get some more ready for this week end.

Can you tell i'm broody!

Just a reminder about Friday - if you're in the area pop along and say hi and get some fabulous xmas gifts not on the high street whilst you're there.

Upcoming christmas events....

2010-11-16T05:50:00.000-08:00

Hi,

We've been really busy getting ready for a few christmas fairs that we're doing.
This Saturday we're going to be at Grand Hall within 'Roding Valley High School of Performing Arts' in Loughton as part of the creative fair. It's a great idea of assembling lots of local talent including artists, designer makers and small businesses together and offering their talents to the local community. We've been a part of the E17 Designers which is on the same wavelength and it's a great opportunity to get quality items back onto the high street. Many of the unique items are handmade to a very high quality and not found anywhere else.

This Saturday doors open at 11 until 4pm and there will be refreshments in the foodhall serving homemade cakes and cupcakes from 'frenchmade' & more.

There will also be a trendy stylist & beauty treatment's for both the adults & children.

With the children's fancy dress at 2.30pm with local performing talent on stage during the day from 'Theatre Train'. only £2.50 to get in for a whole day's worth of entertainment for all ages.

The next one we are doing is next Friday night, 26th with the E17 Designers in Walthamstow. Their markets are getting so popular that this year they're having to put on 2 due to an increasing amount of designers joining the group, and wanting to offer their talents to the local community.

Sharing the love with a free photo tutorial....

2010-10-22T06:15:00.000-07:00

At the moment i've been spending a little too much time on the internet - I started off looking for a free knitting pattern which just escalated into trying to find as many free patterns and art goodies as possible!

So I thought i'd share some of the generosity and show you a few techniques in Photoshop to create old fashioned style photos. Whenever i'm in an antique or charity shop i'm always hunting for old images to use in my graphics work. I get so excited when I do, better than a designer hand bag any day! But this is rare as unless you want to spend extortionate amounts of money there's just not many out there. So this is a really good tip to create your own.

Start of with an image you want to make look old. I've got some pics here from doves in my local park, when they randomly flew by.

Next off you need to create a background, you can use mine if you're not that confident.
To do this I took a photo I had of water (a textured image works well, giving tones to your background image):

I then put a blur onto it. (Go to Filter: Blur: Gaussian Blur, I went really high at about 35 pixels, have the preview on and you can see how much to blur it by before applying).

My picture was a little grey so I went into Image: Adjustments: Colour Balance and increased the Cyan and Blue. You can also use this technique with family pictures, just add yellow and red to make sepia coloured backgrounds instead of cyan and blue.

I then added some noise to my image to give it some extra texture but this is just personal preference, Filters: Noise: Add Noise)

Next is to get the old fashioned scratches and marks. To do this you need to get yourself some different brushes, preferably paint splashes or grunge brushes, there are lots of websites that offer free ones to download. I've got some good ones from brusheezy. Make sure to download either PC or Mac compatible files depending on what computer you have. I use a Mac so I know that the .abr files need to be placed in: Applications: Adobe Photoshop: Presets: Brushes. Once they're loaded play around with the brush tool (selecting different brush types) around the edges of your image. I used a black brush but changed the opacity for extra depth. You only need to work on the one layer throughout this.

Now you have a background you can then overlay it onto your image. Select your background image, copy it and paste it onto your image. They need to be the same size, I had to resize my background to fit using the transform tool. The background image needs to be on the bottom with your preferred image on top i.e. the doves.

Your layers palette will look like this:

Next select the image layer and select overlay, as shown:

and voila.....

Here’s some more I made when I was playing around:

Hope you enjoy using that tip. Share any images you come up with as it would be great to see your creations.

Kirsten

New felted pieces....

2010-10-20T05:35:00.000-07:00

We finally got together at the week end to have a felting day. Although it wasn't as productive as our last day, due to too much chatting over tea, we did manage to make a few new bowls and beads for jewellery.

Here's some pics of us in action, just before I put my hand into my tea instead of the soapy water!!

And here are some pics of our new creations.....

I've left a few on the radiator drying but when they're done i'll post a few pics as well.

Kirsten

'Inspired by Morris' starts this week end.....

2010-10-08T05:33:00.000-07:00

Make sure to pop along to the start of a great new exhibition, starting this week end and running until Christmas at the William Morris gallery. 50 artists have taken inspiration from the legendary William Morris from textile artists, ceramics and even film makers. So pop along and see how the artistic legacy of Morris still lives on through modern contemporary artists today.

The exhibition has also been selected as part of the Story of London 2010

Plus my mum's piece got selected, which always makes me proud to see her work hanging in an exhibition.

Here's a reminder of her amazing work.....

Kirsten

It's official.....

2010-10-08T05:14:00.000-07:00

the single Shame by Imani Hekima has been released on itunes. It's very exciting to see something i've designed out there for everyone to see.

Imani has a great soulful voice which you can check out on his myspace page, it's amazing that he produced every element from all the instruments and vocals.

Hope you enjoy and please share with friends and family.

Kirsten

Rishta Desigs

2010-10-06T06:21:00.000-07:00

This is the work of an innovative, inspiring, creative textile designer who loves to experiment with colour, texture, and different fabrics, to produce unusual "unique" individual pieces, such as cushions, canvas art, and wall hangings.

Please contact Rishta designs for more information or email if you are interested in viewing more of her collection.

Hamlila.patel@googlemail.com mobile 07961796298.

Etsy Craft Party at the VAC in Romford....

2010-09-23T06:02:00.001-07:00

Yes it's true Etsy has finally come to Romford - I can hardly believe it myself and I bet there won't be any fake tan or hair extensions in sight! I can feel the Essex girl stereotype beginning to fade - at long last!

Anyway so The Visual Arts Centre, which is a gallery and workshop space owned and managed by the Frances Bardsley School for Girls is hosting a whole craft month starting off with a craft party tonight from 7-9pm.

From Etsy:
Throughout the evening (and the entire Craft Month) you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Craft Council's exciting new CraftCubes (walk-in installations with audiovisuals allowing you to explore makers' studios and processes) and get tactile with a selection of pieces from their Handling Collection dating from the early 1970s up until today. All ages welcome!

When: Thursday, September 23, 2010. 7 - 9 p.m.

Where: The Visual Arts Centre, Brentwood Road, Romford, Essex. Map.

What: Chat with fellow crafters, delight your senses in the exhibitions and keep your hands busy at the Craft Stations, which will include projects such as bookmaking, felting, jewellery making, crocheting and knitting.

How: Please RSVP to djh_fbs@yahoo.co.uk. Closest train station is Romford, easily accessible from Liverpool Street and Stratford. From Romford station, it’s a short walk or Bus Ride to the venue.

Who: Anyone and everyone!

What to Bring: Feel free to bring along any portable crafts you'd like to work on during the evening.

VAC Craft Month Full Programme Of Events — 2010

The courses and workshops are suitable for those aged 16 and above. An exciting programme for the underaged will also take place during October Half Term. Contact Deborah for more info (details below).

Short Day Courses cost £17.50
2 Hour Workshops cost £12
Prices include materials and refreshments.

Thursday, September 23, 7 - 9 p.m. — Free to attend!
Craft Month officially opens with an Etsy Craft Party!

Saturday, October 9, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
1) Paper making course.
2) Wire-wrapping techniques jewellery course.

Saturday, October 16, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
1) Bookmaking course.
2) Cupcake decorating course.

Thursday, October 21, 4 - 6 p.m. or 7 - 9 p.m. — Free to attend!
Beginner's How to Sell on Etsy workshop with AmityUK.
These workshops are intended for newcomers to Etsy, but Amity will also be happy to share the tips for selling successfully, which she's accumulated since setting up her shop in 2006.

Thursday, October 28, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. or Friday, October 29, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Traditional Japanese paper-making course: Creative Landscapes.

Saturday, October 30, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. or 1 - 3 p.m.
Screen-printing Festive Cards workshop.

Saturday, October 30, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Finding Felt workshop: Simple felt ball purses with a festive twist.

Saturday, October 30, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Free to attend!
Craft Market. £10 per stall.

For more info or to book your place:

Contact Deborah Holland on 01708 477 368 or email djh_fbs@yahoo.co.uk

To see the full page click here
See you at some of the events....

Kirsten

Printing follow up.....

2010-09-21T06:26:00.000-07:00

Here are the other prints I was working on which I finally managed to print up. It's so satisfying when you peel up the paper once its gone through the press to see the final images. Especially after spending hours bent over the lino carving it out. I love this blue printing ink I got recently. I tried to mix in some red to get a purple which didn't quite work but I did get this lovely plum colour instead. That's the other great thing about printing you never quite know what you're going to end up with. I'll be adding them to our Etsy shop soon, so keep an eye out for them there.

After spending a weekend on a boat I think that's going to be my next attempt on some prints. In my next life I am definitely going to live on a boat and be a hippy artist. It's so peaceful and calming, here is where Paul's dad lives, in a marina just outside Nottingham. So you can see why I am always trying to fit in a visit to the in-laws!

Kirsten

Do you value the arts? Support the campaign today!

2010-09-14T05:47:00.000-07:00

It's a little late but i've just heard about the petition to save the arts funding so please quickly sign today if you can.....

If you are interested in the arts in the UK then you might be interested in signing this petition to the Government to try and prevent radical cuts to current levels of arts funding, which will decimate what has been one of the UK's chief success stories over the past 20 years.

The Prime Minister has pledged to take seriously any issue backed by a petition with 100,000 signatures. The DCMS meeting about the future of arts funding is taking place on Tues 14th September. So time is short.

The petition is part of a national campaign that is organised by a consortium of London galleries, arts organisations, and artists.

Please spread the word and share the link provided below via your forums, blogs, sites, and social networks.

www.savethearts.org.uk

If you're in Walthamstow this week end.....

2010-09-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to catch the last of the E17 Art Trail this week end and pop along to the E17 Designers at the Asian Centre on Sunday from 2pm. There's a few new designers with new quirky offerings, see some of their great work below.

Kirsten

2010-09-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

Well I am back and ready to begin.....

I have some good news first my baby passed 5 A levels and is going to St Marys University in Twickenham to become a primary school teacher. She starts in a few weeks when Pope Benedict XVI is visiting at the same time, how good is that?

Here's my baby - 17 years ago!

Also before I left I entered a competition at the William Morris Gallery and when I got home there was a letter waiting for me announcing that they've accepted my piece as part of their Inspired by William Morris exhibition.

I am so pleased so if you are around please pop into William Morris gallery.

Here are a few pics with details.....

Also at long last I have finished my quilt - after just a little mishap in the in the middle of making it, accidentally loosing it and then finding it in the boot of my car underneath some material! But here it is in all its colourful glory!
Sharon

30th Birthdays....

2010-09-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

This year it was all of our 30th birthdays so to mark such a big milestone I decided I would make a print for all of my friends. The idea was to use some images from a daytrip we all went on to Beth Chatto's garden in Spring - yes we are old before our time, we even had a cup of tea and handmade cakes in the cafe and were the youngest there by a good 20 years!

I have finally finished the prints after all of their birthdays have come and gone but I think it was worth the wait - I only hope they do too!!

Here are the lino's that I cut out - I love this kind of lino it is so easy to carve through, would def recommend it to anyone who's new out there. I find it a lot better than the traditional lino but that's just my opinion.

and here are the results....
I printed them on various kinds of paper including my favourite, French vintage paper, taken from old books from Paris, and in various colours, although purple is my favourite.
I've also just put them onto Etsy so if you're interested then go to our Etsy store. for only £15 with free postage and packaging in the UK. I can make a custom order to the colour of your choice as well.

So from the success of those i'm now onto my next ones to build up a little collection. Here are the drawings so far and i'll show you the results when I get going.....

ooh if anyone can recommend a pen to draw straight onto the lino with i'd be very grateful, i'm finding biro's a bit stiff but when I use Pilot drawing pens I end up covered in ink!!

E17 Art Trail.....

2010-08-31T02:09:00.000-07:00

grows year by year and this year there are a staggering 200 listings!!

The E17 Designers are appearing at the Asian Centre on Sunday 12th. So make sure to pop along to see them whilst on your travels around the borough viewing all the art work. Check out their website for all the other listings.

This year i'm doing a one day drop in workshop with artwork for sale at Chestnuts House on Saturday 11th September, 10am-3pm.

Full details:
Community Learning and Skills Service
Chestnuts House, 398 Hoe Street C3
A range of CLaSS learners work. Showing the skills thay have gained through training. You will be able to touch, discuss and try a variety of creative activities. 020 8521 4311 www.walthamforestclass.gov.uk

Sharon

Holiday catch up.....

2010-08-23T06:17:00.000-07:00

We've both been a little quiet at the moment, my mum is still on her holiday and i've just come back from a last minute get away to Vence in France to stay with friends. As you can imagine, it was lovely and this was the view from our bedroom window, which was my friends childhood bedroom. I still can't believe she woke up to this everyday but I can understand why she's dying to move back.

Going away with lots of friends gave little time to chill out and explore the sights but I was given some spare time, hours before we were due to fly back, to explore Vence.

A really nice surprise was learning that Matisse's chapel is in Vence so that was our first tour which was lovely and we timed it just right as the tour guide just started as we walked in. Luckily my friend translated everything for me, otherwise you'll have to brush up on your French to understand anything like his influences from Morocco. Matisse designed everything in there from the furniture to the floors and even the priests robes! Unfortunately you're not allowed to take pics inside but a really nice little old lady let us sneak out the side entrance to take a few pics, this was all I could manage before the groundsman caught us and threw us out!!

Next stop was Vence itself which is a typically quaint French town set around an historic old quarters complete with maze like narrow streets, where you can easily get lost and little glimpses and views to the mountains. There are a few artworks dotted around from an artist, I can't remember his name sorry, who makes the work look like they've been lying in the bottom of the sea for years, here's one with the mountains in the background.....

When we were wondering the back street of the historic centre we came across this graffiti work from French artist C125. I was so shocked as i've known him for a while and am always using his work as inspiration so it was great to see a piece in real life and when you least expect it!!

So although I was only allowed a few hours to catch up on some culture it was jam packed with brilliant finds. To top it off we ended up in an antique market where I got my first holiday souvenir of old factory cotton reels. So a quick dash back to the house to grab our bags and we made it to the airport just in time for our flight.

VandA Architects Build Small Spaces....

2010-08-23T04:43:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had a few hours to spare so I popped along to the V&A, which is always an easy place to loose yourself for a few hours! I was in luck as well as they were holding a special architecture exhibition. The idea behind it was to bring architecture to the general public, making it easily accessible and interactive. So 7 architects and their practices came up with some really quirky and original designs. Here are some of their creations.....

Terunobu Fujimori Beetles House where you can climb up in limited numbers and enjoy a cup of tea with friends or meet new people....

This was in the medieval room which I had never been to before, it's a great little space with quirky features, clearly from churches and places of worship.

I love the random heads on this wall, which was really surreal as I didn't even notice them at first!

Here is Studio Mumbai Architects, Mumbai, India with In-between Architecture which represents the dwellings people create in the slums of Mumbai.

I loved David's head peeping up in the background! To be honest I found the sculpture of David far more awe inspiring due to its humongous scale but don't tell the architects!

My favourite of them all was Helen & Hard Architects from Stavanger in Norway with Ratatosk which took inspiration from nature and Norse mythology. I would love to have something like this in my garden.

To see the others including Vasio S/A amazing spiral booths and read more click here

Kirsten

New CD sleeve design....

2010-08-06T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hi,

Just thought i'd share what i've been working on at the moment.
I was just given a great opportunity to design a CD cover for Imani Hekima's new song 'Shame'. Have a listen on his myspace page as he has an amazing soulful voice.
Although the video to the single is aimed to promote awareness about honour killings of girls and women the song itself is open to many interpretations of destruction.

So my starting point was trying to find an image that captured the right mood which never really came, I even made a terrible attempt to pose for one myself which was very embarassing and nothing like the great attempts I see other budding artists do on Flickr! So I ended up painting the image of the girl myself using a thick Japanese brush and black ink and am really happy with the way it came out. However it was looking a bit flat so to add some depth I put some texture in the background with layers of paint and my favourite new toy, my paint roller, and added some tears of blood dripping from the girls eyes.

We're both really pleased with the outcome so I hope the single does well, which is due to be released at the end of August, and helps to raise more awareness.

Kirsten

Thank you to everyone who came along on Saturday...

2010-07-26T08:23:00.001-07:00

Just a quick update about Saturday's Leytonstone Arts Trail. It was a really great day and the stalls at the E17 Designers market looked great with loads of great handmade offerings. It was nice to see lots of kids running around enjoying themselves too, making it not just for the adults!!

I managed to get some pics in during a quiet moment.....

Kirsten

2010-07-23T02:23:00.000-07:00

This week end head on over to Leytonstone for the Leytonstone Festival and Arts Trail. There will be loads of local artists showcasing in venues around the town and we will be showcasing in the Leytonstone Library along with the E17 Designers. So if you have nothing in your diary come along, check out all the other exciting offerings on their website and make a day of it.

I've been working on some new drawings, which were meant to be finished ages ago but i've just managed to mount and wrap them!! So if you come along you'll be the first to get your hands on them.

Also happening this week end is the grand opening of fellow the E17 Art House, a new venture from fellow E17 designers. They're hosting lots of activities for kids as well as other entertainments so make sure to pop along at some point on Saturday and Sunday.

Summer Fun Teaching.....

2010-07-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would tell you about the lovely couple of days teaching I have had. The City and Guilds course is all finished now so I have been doing some fun summer schools before I go away to France.

The first was a bag making class I taught which was really fun and we had a lovely time. I even had a few students that I haven’t taught before which is always nice to have some new comers to this field.

I also taught a summer family day with children and their parents. It was a lot of fun with all different classes going on around the college, they even had some belly dancers!
There were 29 children in my session and their parents all printing on fabric and hand quilting to make pencil cases. Here are some of them with their creations……

It was really nice to hear how much they enjoyed themselves so it was a really successful day.

So that’s my teaching for this academic year as I am off to France on Monday for the summer and I can’t wait, as this will be the first summer holiday my husband and I have had on our own in 32 years! We are going for 5 weeks so hopefully we’ll still be talking by the end of it!! Although I will really miss Maisie and our kids I still can’t wait until Monday.

Sharon

Music at Wanstead Park......

2010-07-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

After a bit of a blustery start, trying to erect a gazebo in very windy conditions we finally put everything together for a really good day on Saturday. We had a great position where we could hear all the music from the stage and surrounded by the shenanigans of all the kids events, providing some great entertainment! It really was a great day so a very big thank you to the residents of Aldersbrook who put it all together.

The main stage - all the acts were great and I couldn't believe how young some of them were and amazingly talented. I wish I had a musical bone in my body but it was never to be!

Here's our stall basking in the lovely sunshine.....

And a few of the others including Louise who had some great hand made ceramics which I couldn't resist....

Some fellow E17 Designers, Sarie of Fused and Fired who did a great job organising the art and craft section and still had the energy to host her own stall of sophisticated jewellery.....

Gail from Gail's Windy Day with her usual colourful array of gorgeous goodies....

New comer Hamlila Patel who creates some lovely canvas artworks using mixed media and creative embroidery.....

A local artisan who did some hand lathing and created some beautiful bowls.....

And what British event could happen without the classic Punch and Judy show and Morris dancers......

MLB Studios blog great giveaway.....

2010-07-16T05:18:00.000-07:00

Check out MLB Studios blog, not only is it filled with amazing dolls and sculptures but this month they're doing a really cool giveaway for the Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland.

I grew up with the books and had one with the Rackham illustrations such as these:

which I loved at the time but don't think I really appreciated how amazing they were. It's a shame more kids books aren't illustrated in the same way. I've just watched the remake from Tim Burton which I loved as well and for once they haven't ruined a classic!! Johnny Depp is amazing as the mad hatter even with his strange Glaswegian twist!! Definitely worth watching.

Music in Wanstead Park

2010-07-16T02:13:00.000-07:00

Just a quickie - if you have no plans for the week end and live out East then pop along to the Music in Wanstead Park event. Taking place between 2-11pm they're putting on lots of activities during the day whilst music goes on all day and into the night.

We'll be part of the art and craft fair lined along the trees and come 6pm we'll be packing up to enjoy some of the bands for ourselves.

Sounds like a really great and mixed line up.
Read more on the Guardian site and on the Aldersbrook site.

Just a big thank you to.....

2010-07-06T02:26:00.000-07:00

all my students this year who have definitely worked hard from the Level one to the Level three and I am very proud and pleased to say that everyone passed.

I have really enjoyed this year and the students have made it such a great class to teach.

Here are some of the photos of their fantastic work, sorry about the quality but I forgot my camera and used my phone so if any of my students have better photos please send them to me and I will post them up to share with everyone.

Next year will be different as there is no funding for City and Guilds Level 2 and 3 so I am only teaching Level 1 and a new course for me called N.C.F.E, which looks really good fun and I can’t wait.

Just a quick reminder about....

2010-06-16T06:44:00.000-07:00

Fairkytes Summer Fayre
This Saturday 10am-4pm

There'll be lots of art and craft displays, live music and drama, dance, DJing skills and more.
Part of the Hornchurch Festival of Arts & Heritage, Fairkytes Arts Centre, Hornchurch.

It's free entry and the sun is bound to be shining so venture along and enjoy some of the activities on offer. I don't know too much about what is planned but it's a really nice atmosphere over at Fairkytes and the Queen's Theatre, a great way to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon.

A little more about the Festival can be found here: Hornchurch Festival

Here is a working sketch that i'm hoping to turn into one of my pieces for Saturday. It's taken from one of hundreds of pictures I took when I went to Beth Chatto's gardens. It's such a lovely place to visit and as usual I got a little trigger happy and took far too many pictures! I went at the beginning of May when all of the spring flowers were out so i'm going to go back when everything is in full bloom to get some more inspiration.

UK Handmade Magazine....

2010-06-07T05:57:00.000-07:00

Have just launched their summer issue click here to access.

It will definitely get you in the mood for summer and give you lots of crafty inspiration.
I just wish it was the week end again so I can go on a picnic with lots of scrumptious food and maybe a glass or two!

Freeconomy London

2010-06-02T05:12:00.000-07:00

Everyone remembers the man who gave up money for a year to live in a caravan with his laptop, mobile and solar panel charger to keep him company! Well he loved it so much that he's still at it and is trying to spread the good word in London. I've never heard him speak but apparently he's meant to be really inspiring so i'm heading along to hear for myself.

If you get the chance pop along as well to:
Inward Revolution Outward Evolution EventGoldsmiths Student Union, 16th June, 7-10pm

Oh and I designed the poster for them which is why i'm also trying to spread word about the event. The idea behind it was to have nature slowly taking over the City of London and its iconic buildings. After reading about Mark Boyle and Charles Veitch on the internet I tried to mix inspiration from Soviet posters and the 60's psychedelic love posters. Both have commercial backgrounds which they have rebelled against leaning towards a more natural and free spirited way of life, which I was trying to convey.

Also check out this great site: justfortheloveofit

And if you're interested join the facebook event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=123204967707175

Craft markets.....

2010-05-25T06:26:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Just a quick post to let you know about a few more craft markets that we'll be involved with, so if you're in any of the areas make sure to pop along as there's always a stall to tickle your fancy.

This Saturday, 29th May, Methodist Church, Derby Road, South Woodford 10 am - 3 pm

Including “Vintage Plates and Cupcakes” serving tea, coffee and cakes on beautiful vintage china
All proceeds to go to the NSPCC and Woodland Trust.

Hornchurch Arts Festival
Fairkytes Art Fair on Saturday 19th June 10am - 4pm

The annual Hornchurch Festival is now in its fourth year, and runs from the start of June to the end of October, with a programme including art, theatre, music and sport events. We'll be taking over Fairkytes Arts Centre in Hornchurch along with a host of other artists and entertainers. I'll post more details closer to the time.

MUSIC IN WANSTEAD PARK  
On Saturday 17th July 2010 , 2.00pm - 11.00pm  

This sounds like a great day out with lots of music and fun in the Park aimed at the whole family. 
Taking place at The Temple Garden, Wanstead Park
 Price: All-day tickets £7.00. Concessions £4.00. Under-4's free.
 
The evening concert takes off at 8.45pm and includes legendary veteran blues rockers NINE BELOW ZERO.
 Afternoon music includes, on the main stage, a mix of pop, Indie Rock, Folk, Blues and 30's Swing performed by Akayzia, Rattle on the Stovepipe, Bleech, Iroko Theatre Company, Dr Blue and the Prescription, & Wanstead High School Big Band. In the acoustic tent is a mix of modern & classical, string & sax , Indian sitar and tabla.
 
Fun and frolics on the day include an urban climbing wall, pony rides, It's a Knock-Out Tournament, football shoot -out, eggathon, green art tent, live owls and snakes, Pedal Power gadgets, Morris dancing, puppets, swing-boats, drama workshops, stilt walkers and jugglers and therapy and community stalls.

 There's going to be a barbecue, the Star of India, Caribbean and veggie stalls providing refreshments along with beer and wine to get everyone in the swing.

 Sponsored by Redbridge Arts Council, Area 1 Committee and the City of London, and organised by the Aldersbrook Families Association

Enquiries: 020 8989 4898 www.aldersbrook.info

I also wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who came along to support us at the E17 Designers Craft Market earlier this month. It was a really great turn out making it a great night, just over 500 people, it's busiest one yet!! I couldn't believe how quickly the evening flew by, so thanks again for all the supporters of the E17 Designers for making it such a success.

Here are a few pics from the night:

Hope to see you at some of the events,

Kirsten

100sqft launch party.....

2010-05-17T05:19:00.000-07:00

It was the launch party for the 100sqft's third exhibition last night at the Cholmeley Boys Club in Dalston. It was a great atmosphere and despite the showers there was a big turn out. All the work looked brilliant, I especially loved the photography of the tattooed man and the hand emerging. Here are some pics from the night - it runs all week so if you get the chance try and pop in to have a look for yourself. There's so much to take in that you can stand in front of it and stare for hours and still feel that you haven't taken it all in!

Kirsten

This was my piece on proud display.....

And projected onto the wall with all of the other pieces.....

It's such a great venue with lots of kooky furniture, artwork and hideaways......

100sqft exhibition.....

2010-05-07T03:54:00.000-07:00

If you're free make sure to pop along to the 100sqft exhibition on Sunday 16th May at the Cholmeley Boys Club in Dalston.

Also at the Launch - will be 4 large 40"x40" canvases divided into 100 squares and a load of black marker pens for you to leave your mark! Just pick a square write your name and email down so that 100sqft can get in touch with you later, and get drawing. The 4 pieces will then be exhibited at the boys club over the three days, and will be joint altogether to make a huge 10x10 grid. One of the contributing artists will be selected at random to name a charity, and then the piece will be auctioned on ebay & all proceeds donated to the charity. So get their early to bag yourself a square.

So, after a few mishaps along the way of my screen going missing in the post my piece is finally finished. I worked on two at the same time, not knowing which one would work the best and finally decided on the daffodil one. After a few attempts of working on it and getting nowhere I am really pleased with the final outcome which looks great on my wall. I think the tones might be a bit too muted for the night so if I were to do it again for the exhibition I would make it a lot bolder, probably just in black and white so fingers crossed it stands out. There's lots of layers on both, starting with my sketches and lines from my favourite song at the moment, layering over with paint and gesso (quite a few layers as I wasn't happy with the first attempts!!) and finished off with a silk screen print of one of my favourite sketches. It's also going to be online at the 100sqft website - though I have to admit that I carried on working on it from the picture shown on the website!!

Hope to see you there on the night.

Kirsten

Fast approaching.....

2010-05-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

E17 Designers Spring Market.
So make sure its in the diary - £1 entry gets you a free tipple and a raffle ticket for the chance to win goodie bags, that get announced throughout the night.

Friday 14th May at the Asian Centre, Walthamstow Village, from 7-10pm.

2 years in the making....

2010-04-23T05:25:00.000-07:00

and finally it's finished!

So it was about 2 years ago since I promised friends that i'd paint them a picture. I had the ideas all lined up but never actually got round to starting it. Then they announced that they were leaving for Ireland so I had to get my rear into gear and get it moving. I didn't quite make their deadline but i've finished it and just need to send it over.

It's not like anything i've ever done before and there were a few scary moments where I had Dean from Barleylands talk me into just going for it with splattering paint, I think I managed to get more on his floor than on the canvas!!

As it's a picture for a couple it features Josh, a keen rugby player from New Zealand and Axelle, a keen dancer from France. You can't quite see in the photo but there are textured shapes and reference images of their countries making up the background. Then I added both of their flags and home towns and merged it altogether with their favourite colours. I love the way the figures merge into one another considering the contrast between the professions.

I just need to box it up and hope it doesnt get damaged in transit... oh and that they like it!!

The Bee's Knees

2010-04-15T05:55:00.000-07:00

Just over a month now til the E17 Spring Market and it seems everyone is beavering away inspired by the sunshine.

At the market will be new spring items from the Bee's Knees including hairbands and handbags, up-cycled using fused and manipulated plastics and fabric and croched flowers.

Love their bits and want to contact them: thebees_knees@rocketmail.com

Sneeky preview of their great creations......

Busy beaver.....

2010-04-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

I have been working on a technique for my next class, Textile and Embroidery – Manipulation at Waltham Forest Adult College, and after mastering the technique I decided to turn it into a bag.... tah dah.......
I asked chloe if she liked it and she couldn't believe how you start off with such a big piece of fabric and end up with such a small bag at the end.
It's funny watching it gradually shrink as you keep working into it. But as I really enjoyed making it and i've got the pile of fabric that I won from Maggie Grey I am thinking of making an even bigger bag. But i'm off to north Norfolk for a few days break tomorrow so watch this space.

Here are some brooches that I made as well for the E17 spring market. Although I never work in these colours it's great to get you in the mood for summer.

Sharon

Spot of sunshine

2010-04-03T10:02:00.000-07:00

We had a brief moment of sunshine today so I rushed outside to soak up some rays and take a few pictures of our latest felt bowls.......
We've made these especially for the next E17 market.

E17 Designers Spring Market

2010-03-30T04:58:00.000-07:00

I'm just waiting for the sun to shine then I get take some pictures of the new work we've been creating. But in the meantime here are some of the other great pieces to be found at the E17 Designers market to feast your eyes on.......