Never give a boring gift–at Christmas or any other time! Here are some independent artist/entrepreneurs Noelophile™ discovered. They create some seriously cool stuff, and some also teach workshops, in their area of expertise!
- Sparking Enchantment November 15, 2024
by Noella Noelophile®
(Royalty-free image by Betidraws from Pixabay.)
2024 has been a landmark year for Museum of Make Believe.
This summer, they achieved a long-held dream.
After four years of fundraising while making art and imagination accessible through pop-up events, and some virtual ones during the pandemic, husband-and-wife creative team and museum co-founders Amy and Geoff Mitchell opened their physical space, in the heart of Laguna Beach.
And they’d like to invite you to come and celebrate with them–with TWO upcoming events.
Royalty-free image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay._
On Saturday, November 30th, they’re hosting an outdoor holiday market, from noon to 4 pm, according to an email from Amy, who is the Museum of Make Believe’s Executive Director.
Amy says the featured guest artisans will be local community members, promoting their work. (As the Museum has just put up Thanksgiving decor after an imaginative and lively Halloween season, they’re understandably still determining who will be exhibiting.)
And a week later, on Friday, December 6th, look for Amy and Geoff as they participate in Laguna Beach Hospitality Night!
(Royalty-free image by G.C. from Pixabay.)
This is going to be a street party–with lots of talent.
According to the Laguna Beach website, the downtown streets will be closed, with the celebration starting at 5:00 pm.
And it’s going to be a blast!
Local performances groups will offer entertainment. Crafts and activities will be happening in the Peppertree Lot. Caroling and tempting food will be a part of the program, as will the arrival of a certain gentleman in a red suit, who will help to light the tree at 6:10 pm, and will be onsite in his Beach House, afterwards, to listen to children’s Christmas wishes.
(Royalty-free image by Holger Grybsh from Pixabay.)
Be sure to stop by and say “hi” to Geoff and Amy in their new space, and congratulate them on making a magical dream come true. Maybe, if you’re lucky, Geoff will even have crafted some of his enchanting miniature versions of “A Christmas Carol”.
And I can’t wait to tell you more about the Museum of Make Believe, as they continue creating magic for Christmas Season 2024.
The Museum of Make Believe, located in Suite 5 of 1590 South Coast Highway, near Bluebird Canyon Drive, is open Thursdays through Sundays . Come visit them for their outdoor holiday marketplace, from noon to 4 pm on Saturday, November 30th, and during Long Beach Hospitality Night on Friday, December 6th. Here’s the link for more information.
Continue reading →
- A “Jackalope” for Pasadena November 7, 2024
by Noella Noelophile®
“Jackalope” spotted, on the horizon!
And once it gets to Pasadena, it’s going to be fantastic.
The Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair comes to Pasadena’s Central Park, this Saturday and Sunday, November 9th and 10th.
More than 200 handmade artisan booths, highly tempting food, music and DIY activities are all on the program.
Shoppers peruse the Pasadena Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.
(Photo courtesy of Gil Riego Photography, and used with permission.)Guests will get to explore their creativity through watercolor-painting workshops, screen printing and designing with dried flowers. The youngest artists on hand will get to engage in a kids’ clay activity.
And in an email, Jackalope Arts advises families to arrive early on Sunday, November 10th. That’s when “Miss Harriet” will be onsite, with play activities and childhood music for the smallest attendees.
Now, what might you get to see as you shop Jackalope Pasadena?
Just a few of the exhibiting artists include:
(Royalty-free image by lehafedor86 from Pixabay.,)
Cisele Handcrafted Leather, with their beautiful handtooled bags and wallets (and their website mentions that they have many more items available than they’re displaying!);
(Royalty-free image by ian from Pixabay.)
Capycrafts, I’ve never seen hand-crocheted flowers before! Check these out, they are beautiful! And you’ll see some of these on hairclips and crocheted bags. I would suggest a closer look at the crocheted toy cats, but unfortunately (and not surprisingly!) the website shows them as “sold out”.
(Royalty-free image by Andre Zivic from Pixabay.)
Story Spark. These are T-shirts with original graphics, blending technology, pop culture and art. The “Volt Dragon” is my favorite, but there’s a wide selection that will allow you to find the perfect quirky design that reflects you or a special gift recipient in your life.
And I’m delighted to see Accessory Alchemy exhibiting! Admittedly, proprietor Ali Krajewski’s work is a longtime favorite. Her steampunk jewelry pays tribute to the Victorian era, and manages to be both eye-catching and fun.
Here, Ali displays one of her miniature Christmas tree necklaces, under a tiny glass display dome. I lost count of how many of these wound up being just right for someone on my gift list, and a tiny green tree with red ornaments is now a favorite Christmastime addition to whatever I decide to wear in December.
Then, there’s the food.
Maine lobster, kogi and ice cream will be among the food-truck offerings, while artisan foods to take along and surprise a favorite “foodie” include Middle Eastern fare, small-batch cookies from around the world, preserves and nut butters.
All in all, Jackalope Pasadena sounds like a “feast” for the senses and an excellent, soul-renewing way to spend a weekend.
Jackalope Pasadena runs Saturday and Sunday, November 9th and 10th, from 10 am to 4 pm at Central Park, Pasadena, 275 S Raymond Avenue near Delmar. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - Creating At the Energy of Light October 17, 2024
by Noella Noelophile®
At the core of artist Brandi LaPointe’s work is—magic.
Through her handmade small business, BeeClectic Goodes, Brandi creates beautiful and intentional items, designed to create light in her customers’ lives–both literally and figuratively.
For her, the creative process is also a spiritual one.
Brandi says she uses the magic of the earth, as she crafts her scented intention candles, hand-wrapped jewelry, resin suncatchers, pyramids and other unique and beautiful items she offers at local crafts fairs and on her Instagram and Facebook pages. (And she does take custom orders, but contact her early! Her intention candles are bestsellers.)
And Brandi will be displaying her work at a number of crafts fairs this autumn, including at the “Halloween Bash” Pop-Up Shop in Irvine on Saturday, October 19th, AND at the Long Beach edition of the Patchwork Show on November 24th!
Brandi talked about her creative process, shared the story of BeeClectic Goodes and offered a closer look at some of the gift items she’ll have available for Christmas season 2024.
Continue reading → - SPAA Looks Forward to Student Creativity April 30, 2024
by Noella Noelophile®
Standing at an easel, you swirl colors onto paper. Time seems to melt away as you bring your vision to life. All too soon, the bell rings.
In those art classes, during our school years, you and I had the opportunity to explore our creativity.
This summer, San Pedro Art Association once again celebrates that exploration–by welcoming the next generation of artists to enter their twelfth annual “Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition and Exhibition”!
(SPAA Student Art Show, 2015.)
Students in the Harbor area, in elementary, middle school and high school, are invited to enter.
Accepted art mediums, according to SPAA’s website, will be: charcoal, pastel (chalk or oil), all drawing materials, all painting materials, and photography (darkroom or digital).
A panel of art professionals will serve as judges. Submitted artwork may be of any appropriate subject matter, at the judges’ discretion.
Winning competition entries receive cash prizes, and winning entries will be professionally framed and exhibited at CRAFTED, where San Pedro Art Association exhibits their work, year-round. Selected student works will also be featured in an online exhibition, shown throughout the year.
(Royalty-free image by Ken from Pixabay.)
In addition, every student who enters will receive a 150-piece art set, as well as an award ribbon and student membership with SPAA through high school.
Nonprofit San Pedro Art Association has just celebrated 80 years of serving artists in the San Pedro and surrounding Harbor communities. Since 1936, they’ve been in continuous operation, with classes, exhibits, art walks, exhibits (including their weekly Melrose Trading Post appearances and their ongoing displays at CRAFTED) and, of course, the Student Art Competition.
The competition is free to enter, but heads-up: the entry deadline, May 9th, is coming up fast!
SPAA “Harbor Wide Student Art Exhibit” exhibitors, 2014
Entering, says SPAA, is “super easy”. Students may take a photo of their artwork and send it in by text or email: here is the contact information. Submissions must be accompanied by the student’s name, grade, school and a signed permission form.
SPAA volunteers can also pick up entries and forms at the entrants’ school.
In addition, entries may be dropped off in two locations in San Pedro: here is the information.
Spread the word, and let’s encourage the next generation of gifted artists as they develop their talent!
San Pedro Art Association’s twelfth annual “Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition and Exhibition” is accepting student entries from now through Thursday, May 9th. Entry is free, and students in elementary, middle and high school, in the San Pedro and Harbor areas, are eligible to enter. Here’s the link for information.
Continue reading → - Opening New Worlds of Imagination April 12, 2024
by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of Museum of Make Believe, and used with permission.)
Watching dreams come true for gifted artists, is one of life’s most magical experiences.
On Thursday, April 25th, in Laguna Beach, you’ll get a chance to experience that magic.
At 5:30 that afternoon, Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce invites you to the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony as the Museum of Make Believe hosts their inaugural exhibit, “Ghost Stories and Fairy Tales”, in their brand-new, 1,000-square-foot creative space!
And it’s going to be enchanting.
(Royalty-free image by Hishametto from Pixabay.)
Since 2020, artists Amy and Geoff Mitchell have been celebrating imagination and creativity.
As co-founders of Museum of Make Believe, they’ve hosted a number of immersive and interactive pop-up events. They’ve made art accessible, with workshops, parties, puppetry, and even an original radio drama, “Strange Secrets of Starlight Park”!
All along, their vision has been to bring their magic to a permanent location.
Now, they’re seeing that vision become a reality.
(Image courtesy of Museum of Make Believe, and used with permission.)
For this inaugural exhibit, Museum of Make Believe has created a magical woodland.
Think twinkling fireflies, mystical trees and a handpainted cobblestone path. Throughout them will be a variety of paintings, miniatures and sculptures–each of which tells its own story.
(Royalty-free image by Ga_Webz from Pixabay.)
“The Museum of Make Believe is a nonprofit organization…dedicated to preserving the timeless art of storytelling,” said Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce CEO Erin Slattery in a recent press release.
“This new immersive Ghost Stories & Fairy Tales exhibit offers guests a way to step back into nostalgia and experience an older kind of magic.”
For the Grand Opening, the magic will include free admission, make-your-own puppets for the smallest magic practitioners in attendance, refreshments on the patio, door prize drawings and a fundraiser raffle.
Can’t make it to Laguna on the 25th, but you’d like to explore the enchantment at a later date? Tickets are available at this link!
Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce hosts a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony celebration for Museum of Make Believe as they open their first permanent space on Thursday, April 25th, at 5:30 pm at Suite 5 of 1590 South Pacific Coast Hwy, near Bluebird Canyon Drive, in Laguna Beach. The Museum’s inaugural event, “Ghost Stories and Fairy Tales”, will be open at no charge to all attendees for this special event.
Continue reading → - SPAA’s “Crafty” Springtime Welcome March 7, 2024
by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of San Pedro Art Association, and used with permission.)
Move over, bunny–San Pedro Art Association is inviting everyone to an Easter egg hunt!
But the “treats” they’re offering, are even nicer than chocolate eggs and jelly beans.
On Saturday, March 16th, SPAA hosts their “Easter Craft Fair” on the corner of 25th and Western, in San Pedro.
Expect to find all kinds of incredible handcrafted treasures.
Mike Piper will be on hand, with his imaginative lamps. These are crafted from cameras and musical instruments! Needlepoint artist Ann Gray will offer a number of her stitchery creations, as well as dog gifts. And don’t miss Dan Tregarthen’s hand crafted wood items!
(Royalty-free image by Simona Robova, from Pixabay.
As if that isn’t enough to tempt you, you can also find handmade scented soaps (these have a tendency to jump into my shopping bag, how about you?), jewelry and fine art.
The latter have wowed me, multiple times, when I’ve stopped by to visit one of SPAA’s craft shows or exhibits, pre-pandemic. My favorites, hands down, are the breathtaking seascapes–but expect all kinds of perspectives on the world from their talented artists.
(Royalty-free image courtesy of Pixabay and free for commercial use. Check them out at pixabay.com.)
And in every booth (while supplies last), they’re hiding Easter eggs.
Specifically, these will be paper Easter eggs, which you can exchange for eggs filled with goodies, while supplies last.
And SPAA (which, by the way, represents over 150 artists and gallery owners!) says you do not have to be a child, to participate in the egg hunt.
An almost-Springtime salute to them, for recognizing the “big kid” in all of us! And if you’re going to be in the San Pedro area a week from this Saturday, consider coming down to support them.
They’re almost certain to make you “hoppy”.
San Pedro Art Association’s Easter Craft Fair happens Saturday, March 16th, from 10 am to 4 pm at the corner of 25th and Western, in San Pedro. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - “Crafty” Before Christmas December 11, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of San Pedro Art Association, and used with permission.)
Yayyyy! They’re back!
I’m talking about San Pedro Art Association’s craft fairs.
They’ve started them up again–with a Christmas edition coming up this Saturday, December 16th!
Getting to explore SPAA’s craft fairs, in the past, I’ve always found something special.
(Royalty-free image by Marco from Pixzabay.)
For example, the breathtaking seascapes which Carlos Anthony Boisselle paints. (He also creates some striking jewelry–and 2023 was a landmark year for him. Carlos hosted his first solo show in Buena Park City Hall this summer. AND, earlier this month, the Hugo Rivera Gallery, in Laguna Beach, invited him to show his handcrafted fine jewelry during the Laguna Beach Holiday Art Walk!)
Carlos currently has four mixed-media paintings in Hugo Rivera Gallery, and SPAA secretary (and fellow artist!) Bill Boisselle-Schalaba emails that he will also be onsite at the gallery on the first Thursday in January, weather permitting.
(Royalty-free image by Antonio Lopez from Pixabay.)
And speaking of Bill Boisselle-Schalaba–he’s another artist whose work deserves a mention. Multitalented Bill creates whimsical mixed-media work, including playfully-styled picture frames, boxes and wooden handbags. He has also done photography and created acrylic-pour pieces. I especially like his abstract, with its jewel colors, created in this style.
(Royalty-free image by Bob Dymt from Pixabay.)
Bill was kind enough to mention, in his email, two other artists who’ll be exhibiting this weekend. Ann Gray is a needlework artist, creating blankets and needlepoint gifts. And Loralin Engel works in a unique medium: she handcrafts mandalas on vinyl records, and on CDs!
(Royalty-free image by Juergen Sieber from Pixabay.)
David Jinda is a woodworker whom I haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting–but he’s recognized on SPAA’s website as their “Artist of the Month”. His inlaid pieces, which he creates with a lathe, make me want to reach out to touch them, to feel the smoothness.
In addition, SPAA emails that this particular craft show is the only time they allow artists who are not in their membership, to set up their work and sell with SPAA members. Hot sauce and food gifts, fine art and needlework and more, from some new friends, are sure to be a part of the show.
San Pedro Art Association’s “Christmas Craft Fair” happens next Saturday, December 16th, from 9 am to 3 pm in the B of A parking lot, 25th and Western, in San Pedro. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - A Sense of Enchantment December 1, 2023
(Royalty-free image by Radoslaw Salaga from Pixabay.)
“The entire season is just so magical,” says author and artist Ellie Lieberman, proprietor of small handmade business Acorn Tops.
Ellie captures that magic in her books and handmade fairy creations.
Most recently, she’s presented it in her enchanting new children’s book, The Way the Cookie Crumbles.
The Way the Cookie Crumbles is the third in Ellie’s “Basil Basset” children’s series, starring Brigid and her lovable pet, Basil, who tends to get into trouble and is partly inspired by Ellie’s first basset hound.
Ellie, who both writes and illustrates her books, is also the author of a number of books and short stories for adults–including her just-released new novel, An Impossible Dream.
(And of course, Ellie is no stranger to Christmas stories! As you check out her author page, be sure to get a look at her short story, The Memory Tree.)
Ellie talked about her Basil Basset series, offered a preview of An Impossible Dream and shared some of her favorite elements of wonder and magic for the Christmas season.
Continue reading → - Festive by the Sea November 29, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
(Royalty-free photo by Jairo Gonzalez on Unsplash.)
What could be better than Christmas shopping by the beach?
How about: supporting talented artists, celebrating a great community and encouraging some gifted students–while Christmas shopping by the beach?
That’s exactly what you’ll get an opportunity to do, if you’re in Northern California this weekend.
This Saturday and Sunday, December 2nd and 3rd, the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair returns to the Muir Beach Community Center!
For more than 40 years, the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair has been a Christmastime tradition.
(Royalty-free image by Juan Torres from Pixabay.)
More than 40 gifted artists from all over the Bay Area showcase their work. Exhibits sparkle with Christmas ornaments, wreaths, home and fashion accessories, hand-made jewelry, gifts from the garden and much more.
As you browse, be sure to look for the Muir Beach Volunteer Firefighters. They’ll be selling their dog logo accessories, clothing, hats, and stainless ware, and your purchases help fund their goal: building a new firehouse!
And a don’t-miss, is the Muir Beach Quilters’ display.
(Royalty-free image by Candace Hunter from Pixabay.)
Not only do they have their beautiful quilts, scarves and gloves for sale, but this year, they have some brand-new handstitched Christmas ornaments!
In addition, they’re the original innovators who started the fair–as a big, informal community party, in 1972! According to the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair’s website, the Muir Beach Quilters ran the Fair up until 2013. When the Quilters decided not to continue the Fair following that year’s event, community members kept the tradition going.
Today, the Muir Beach Arts Fair operates with two purposes.
First, to donate a portion of their proceeds to fund local community events, including concerts, summer and winter solstice celebrations and the kids’ Halloween Party.
And second, to give their local creative artists a chance to sell their work.
(Royalty-free image by Ralph Nas from Pixabay.)
Once again, this year, the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair has partnered with the California College of the Arts, showcasing the work of some of their students. Meanwhile, some future California College students may very well be exhibiting–the Fair offers a Junior Artisans/Kids table, where younger exhibitors can showcase and sell their creations.
With food and beverages available throughout both days, and its community and creative atmosphere, Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair will welcome the first weekend in December as it first did in 1972: with a party.
The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair runs from 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday, December 2nd, and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday, December 3rd, at The Muir Beach Community Center, 19 Seascape Drive, in Muir Beach. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - Spotlighting Small Business Saturday November 25, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
(Royalty-free image by kweuffen0 from Pixabay.)
Today is Small Business Saturday! Here are just a few of the talented artists and artisans currently selling their work through their small businesses, whom you might like to support as you do your Christmas shopping.
Author and artist Ellie Lieberman takes a magical approach to creativity. Her handcrafted fairy doors for all seasons, along with her star sachets and fabric pumpkins, are my personal favorites.
And her books have an excellent balance of darkness and magic.
I’m looking forward to reading her just-published “An Impossible Dream”, while her first book, “Society’s Foundlings”, remains one of my all-time favorites.
Ellie also writes and illustrates an enchanting children’s series, “Basil the Basset”. You may just want to pick up a copy of her latest book in the series, “The Way the Cookie Crumbles”, to slip under the tree for a favorite small person in your life.
(Royalty-free images by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay.)
Bibliophile/reviewer/editor Pamela Willson is a talented artisan, with a new angle on creating scented candles.
Pamela crafts scented candles inspired by books by her favorite independent and self-published authors!
As mentioned in our earlier interview, Pamela currently has more than 30 scented candles available, with scents like sea salt mixed with orchid, gingerbread with dark chocolate and citrus with sriracha.
Two other pluses here:
Pamela has currently been working with Ellie Lieberman, above, to create gift sets which include scented bookmarks, a scented candle and a copy of the book which inspired it, and a bar of chocolate. Sounds like a fantastic gift for any reader on your gift list!
In addition, Pamela is a highly-talented editor. If you know an author who’s looking for editing and proofreading services, she may well be available to edit and proof their work. (A note card in a beautifully-wrapped box, telling your recipient that you’ve engaged Pamela’s editing services for their current manuscript, would be a fantastic Christmas gift for any writer!)
(Photo courtesy of Icarian Photography, and used with permission.)
Linnea Oliver’s jewelry designs incorporate the clean lines of her Scandinavian heritage, along with the fun and colorful basic shapes of midcentury design. As we discussed in an earlier interview, there really is something for everyone among her creations.
Her inlaid tie bars for men put a new slant on the striped tie, while her hatch cuff links have a quiet elegance that will please any hard-to-shop-for male on your list.
I personally love her earrings and necklaces, though.
While I’d originally planned to mention her diamond-shaped art deco necklace and “Vera Arch” earrings as two favorites that would make great gifts, she now has new Christmas jewelry!
Check out her Christmas tree designs, along with her studs, which would be fun to slip into a stocking or give as a “secret Santa” gift.
(Photo courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild.)
Angela Jackson, as mentioned in previous posts, says she’s never had formal art training.
But if she hadn’t told me that, I’d never have believed it.
Angie can custom-design just about any type of greeting card, invitation, note cards, etc. that you might have in mind.
For Christmas 2023, I’m admiring her green holly-leaf star, and her minimalist Christmas tree against a white background.
But she has no less than fourteen Christmas designs on her webpage, along with a Hanukkah card design and a mixed-variety of special-occasion cards. Definitely give her website a look for any occasion you have in mind, this Christmas and for the coming year.
“Oh, yummm!” may well be the reaction from a favorite foodie on your list, if you give them Rondo Mieczkowski’s raspberry jam, tarragon cherries or his six-pack of gourmet vegan foods. Those bread-and-butter pickles certainly have MY mouth watering!
I met Rondo a number of years ago, during one of the first Jackalope Arts fairs in Pasadena, and he explained that he handcrafts small batches of his gourmet foods from both family and heirloom recipes.
And his website mentions all the awards he’s won for his all-vegan, 100% gluten-free creations, made with kosher ingredients. Among them: the 2019, 2017 AND 2013 national Good Food Award for his Tarragon Cherries, in the Pickled Foods category; as well as “Best In Show- All Jams and Jellies” at the 2010 California State Fair, for his Strawberry-Rhubarb Jam.
Prefer to meet Rondo in-person, and see what he has to tempt you? His Etsy shop listing says he’s at the Hollywood Farmers Market, every Sunday.
And–that’s it! Just a very small percentage of the gifted and talented artists and artisans I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, who are currently selling their work.
Happy Small Business Saturday, and may you find some amazing treasures as you shop.
Continue reading → - SPAA’s Star Turn as Santa November 14, 2023
(Graphic courtesy of San Pedro Art Association, and used with permission.)
Remember the magic of Christmas morning? I certainly do.
You had to eat breakfast first (no meal ever lasted longer in the history of time!). Then the parents went into the living room to light the Christmas tree.
And FINALLY, finally–it was time to see what Santa had left under the tree.
(Royalty-free image by Jason Gillman from Pixabay.)
Now, how would YOU like to help create that magic this year, for local children in the San Pedro and Wilmington areas?
San Pedro Art Association kicks off their 8th Annual Harbor Interfaith Holiday Toy Drive, benefiting local youth in San Pedro, this Friday, November 17th.
For SPAA, which has been serving artists since 1936, this toy drive is special.
Started in 2015, by SPAA Secretary (and gifted artist!) Bill Boisselle-Schalaba, the Harbor Interfaith Holiday Toy Drive has collected thousands of dollars’ worth of toys for kids in the San Pedro/Wilmington area.
SPAA emails that Bill started this particular toy drive because he felt that other toy drives didn’t ensure that the donations were kept local. SPAA, however, focuses on bringing the magic of Christmas morning to local kids.
Here’s how you can help.
(Royalty-free image by Schwarzenarzisse from PIxabay.)
Please consider dropping off one or more new, unwrapped toys to SPAA’s donation area, in their gallery inside CRAFTED. Bill says, in addition to toys, they always need gift cards for teens, such as cards for Starbucks or Claire’s. The deadline for toy donations is December 10th.
SPAA’s hours are Friday through Sunday, 12 noon to 6 pm, and as you’ll see on the flyer, they have extended holiday hours, 11 am to 7 pm.
(And of course, as you’re having fun being Santa, don’t forget to check out the work of their talented exhibiting artists! You may just wind up with gifts for a few people on YOUR Santa list, as well.)
San Pedro Art Association’s 8th Annual Harbor Interfaith Holiday Toy Drive runs Friday, November 17th through Sunday, December 10th. Drop off new, unwrapped toys and gift cards at SPAA’s gallery at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street, near Miner, Warehouse 10, every weekend from 11 am to 7 pm, Friday through Sunday.
Continue reading → - Where Creativity Soars November 9, 2023
(Photo courtesy of Icarian Photography, and used with permission.)
Clean lines. Cheerful retro shapes. Striking accents against contrasting colors. Eye-catching motion, and a sense of fun.
It’s all a part of Bird of Virtue proprietor Linnea Oliver’s artistry.
Linnea’s handcrafted jewelry is inspired by her Nordic heritage, as well as mid-century design and the shapes and colors she encounters in nature–and in everyday life.
And if you’re looking for unique gifts, you’ve found them. Linnea creates her jewelry from acrylic and American hardwoods, then meticulously handpaints her creations.
Among Linnea’s collections is her “Virtue necklace”–on which she’s written a word pertaining to a virtue to which she aspires, in Braille. Many of her pieces are inspired by Scandinavian design, while collections such as her “Abacus” earrings offer a new slant on the colors and shapes of the 1960s.
I particularly like her tie bars and cuff links (who doesn’t have a man on their gift list, for whom finding something special can be a challenge?). Another favorite: her cute, affordable studs (can we say “secret Santa” and “stocking stuffers” here?). Then there’s her gorgeous, limited-edition “Solvej Geo Rays” pendant.
And, she’s recently begun creating home goods, as well!
Linnea talked about her background, how “Bird of Virtue” came about and her creative process.
Continue reading → - On the “Scent” of Great Reads October 27, 2023
(Royalty-free images by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay.)
Pamela Willson takes a unique approach to creating her scented candles.
With a lifelong passion for reading, Pamela is “The Picky Bookworm”. Through her Tulsa, Oklahoma-based company, she offers proofreading and editing services, and publishes book reviews of indie authors’ work.
And one day, the idea struck her: why not create scented candles inspired by some of her favorite authors’ books?
Today, Pamela has created more than 30 unique scented candles. The fragrances evoke the worlds the authors have created, and can be based on a scent a character might wear, an important element in a story, the general atmosphere of a book–or all of these.
In addition, Pamela currently has four gift sets available.
(Royalty-free image by Hilda Smith from Pixabay._
Three of these sound like an amazing gift for anyone who loves to read. They contain the book which inspired the candle, the candle itself, a scented bookmark by Acorn Tops proprietor Ellie Lieberman, and–chocolate. Tempting!
The fourth? A limited-edition set of three Halloween candles, with a choice of six different autumn scents. These fragrances sound almost good enough to eat!
Pamela also hosts The Picky Bookworm Podcast, where, every week, she talks with authors, fellow book bloggers and anyone else for whom books and reading are a passion. (Warning: great show, and it will give you A LOT more to add to your “must-read” list!)
Pamela talked about her work, the genesis of her candlemaking venture and her vision for The Picky Bookworm for the future.
Continue reading → - “Patchwork”: A Season of Talent – Part 1 October 26, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
Here it comes–Christmas shopping season, 2023! (Some might argue that it’s already here!)
And Dear Handmade Life’s Patchwork Show and Makers Market Community Festival is ready to welcome you, with six exciting shows, up and down the state.
Their fall season of shows starts off this weekend–in Long Beach‘s Marine Stadium.
This Sunday, October 29th, Patchwork Show’s largest and longest-running craft show, returns to Long Beach. More than 250 talented makers will be onsite, along with live music, food trucks, DIY activities and more. And if you’re a “crafty” somebody who’d like to make a handcrafted gift for someone special in your life (or yourself!), you’ll get that opportunity, with a hand sewing project, several jewelry-making workshops and candle decorating listed among the DIY workshops.
Patchwork Show Long Beach happens Sunday, October 29th, from 11 am to 5 pm in Long Beach’s Marine Stadium, 490 Bayshore Avenue Parking, near East Paoli Way. Admission and parking are free. Here’s the link to their event and parking maps.
Art with an ocean view
Then, the following Sunday, November 5th, Patchwork Show heads north–with a new location in downtown Ventura.
More than 50 vendors will be onsite, on a palm-lined street from which you can see the ocean! DIY workshops will include ornament painting, creating your own bath salts and making holiday dinos! Plus, the new location will be within walking distance of a number of local shops and restaurants
Patchwork Show Ventura happens Sunday, November 5th, from 11 am to 5 pm at California and East Main Street, in downtown Ventura. Admission and parking are free. You’ll find event and parking maps here.
Unique and historic
And the following Sunday, November 12th? Look for Patchwork Show in their newest location–historic Old Town Tustin!
For this one, more than 100 vendors will be on hand. Food trucks and DIY activities will be part of the festivities. And while the schedule of crafts and other activities has not yet been posted, I’ve had the pleasure of attending a number of Patchwork Shows and they never disappoint.
In addition, Patchwork Show’s website mentions that this show will be located in an area surrounded by historic buildings, shops and restaurants. Old Town Tustin’s Main Street dates back to 1868 and includes some very tempting-sounding independently-0wned shops and restaurants. A lavender boutique, independent bookstore and authentic Italian restaurant that’s been around for more than half a century? Yes, please!
Patchwork Show Tustin happens Sunday, November 12th, from 11 am to 5 pm in the Farmer’s Market Lot, at 245 El Camino Real in Old Town Tustin. Admission and parking are free. Maps and event schedules will be posted closer to the event date.
Those are the Southern California dates for Patchwork Show, and the first of their three Northern California shows happens Saturday, November 18th, in Oakland. I’ll post more information as their schedules and maps are available.
Continue reading → - Start the Presses October 20, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
Charles Dickens knew the importance of presentation.
By all accounts, his classic A Christmas Carol was beautifully bound. The end papers were hand-colored, the pages gold-edged, and one of the best artists of his day created the illustrations.
If you’re looking for something special for a loved one this Christmas season, you don’t have to go quite that far. In fact, you may only want to go as far as Carson, this weekend–for the 2023 Los Angeles Printers Fair, at the International Printing Museum!
This Saturday and Sunday, October 21st and 22nd, 80 talented artists will be onsite, displaying their work. In addition, if you are a letterpress or printmaking artist, there will be printing and type equipment for sale.
(Royalty-free image by SweetMellowChill from Pixabay.)
And you’ll get a chance to browse hand-printed cards, custom posters, hand-made paper and much more. Not to mention check out the letterpress and book arts demos, happening throughout the Fair.
Looking over their 2023 vendor listing, I really like those handbound journals and sketchbooks from Jumping Whale Books. And Double Nutkin’s handmade prints. And Two Hand Design’s cheerful, folk art-inspired notecard packs and notebooks. And…
OK, OK. I’ll let you discover your own favorites–there are sure to be plenty! As well as special tours of the International Printing Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive collections of working antique printing equipment. All proceeds from the Los Angeles Printers Fair go to support the Museum, which is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit dedicated to bringing the history of books and printing to life for their visitors.
(Royalty-free image by Stefan Schweihofer from Pixabay.)
Meanwhile, if you are currently working on your own novella, book of poetry or other passion project, you may want to ask about the Museum’s Book Arts Institute! Their next bookmaking class begins on November 18th, and runs through January 6th.
The 2023 Los Angeles Printers Fair happens Saturday and Sunday, October 21st and 22nd, from 10 am to 4 pm at the International Printing Museum, 315 West Torrance Boulevard (west of Main Street) in Carson.
Continue reading → - More Stardust in the Making October 17, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®M
(Graphic courtesy of Museum of Make Believe, and used with permission.)
Here’s some fantastic news–and some okay news.
The fantastic news first.
Museum of Make Believe are hard at work on their inaugural exhibit, for their soon-to-be brand-new physical museum space, in Laguna Beach!
They’re set to open later this autumn.
While they haven’t yet announced a specific date, this is going to be absolutely magical.
You’ll recall from our previous interview with artist Amy Mitchell that she and her husband Geoff first created the Museum of Make Believe in April, 2020. Since then (and despite the pandemic) they’ve hosted all kinds of pop-up events to spark the imagination.
Technically, Museum of Make Believe is an art museum. But that term doesn’t do it justice.
Putting the “magic” in imagination
The goal here, Amy explains, is to encourage visitors to explore their creativity through art and storytelling. Events are interactive, hands-on and whimsical.
And my personal favorite so far has been “Winter Wonderland: A Vintage Christmas”, last December. This was one of the most imaginative and fun virtual events I’ve ever experienced.
All along, though, the vision has been to open a physical space.
Expect plenty of magic when the doors open. Museum of Make Believe’s fundraising page says the new space will be a storybook forest setting. Their inaugural exhibit is entitled, “Ghost Stories & Fairy Tales”.
(Sounds Christmasy to me! After all, isn’t Dickens’ A Christmas Carol the ultimate “Christmas ghost story”?)
I’ll look forward to sharing more details with you as they become available.
And next…
(Royalty-free image by FreeFunArt from Pixabay.)
Now–on to the okay news.
Since there are only twenty-four hours in every day, Museum of Make Believe won’t get to “Halloween” with the community as they normally do. They will be missed!
However…
They’d like to invite you to enjoy their past festivities.
Here’s where you can enjoy all their past Halloween events, this Halloween! You’ll get to see their “Hallows’ Eve Curiosity Show”. The recorded live stream from their “Headless Horseman’s Hallows’ Eve” is likely to send a few tingles up your spine. And don’t miss their floats from the previous years’ “Anaheim Halloween Parade”! Their creations include Rose the Fox Princess, Fricka the Dragon, the Moon Rabbit, and the Light Queen of the Enchanted Forest. Not to mention their three witches trapped in birdcages!
Now, are you in a position to help support them as they achieve their dream?
Here’s a link to their fundraiser, where you’ll see a video of some of their past work.
Imagine what they’ll do when they have a permanent physical space!
After all, now is a great time to start imagining enchantment.
Continue reading → - An Almost-Summer Roundup June 15, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
The best time for Christmas shopping, is now.
I know, it’s the middle of June! And that’s exactly why.
With summertime crafts events happening, now is a great time to discover handcrafted treasures for the important people in your life. Including you!
With that in mind, here are just a few of the venues where you’re likely to find special things, courtesy of some highly gifted artists and makers.
Patchwork Show Makers’ Market and Community Festival
Downtown Ventura, California and Main, this Sunday, June 18th, 11 am – 5 pm. Free admission.
More than 50 vendors in a beach town setting, DIY activities and live music make this a community celebration! Patchwork Show hosts seasonal shows up and down the state of California in late spring/early summer, with their autumn round of craft fairs starting in November.
THEN, they move on to…
Santa Rosa, Old Courthouse Square, Sunday, June 25th, 11 am – 5 pm. Free admission.
This show features more than 75 vendors, according to host company Dear Handmade Life’s website. Look for their DIY activities to include hand stamp jewelry making, dried-flower creations with locally-grown blooms, AND a “Patchwork Junior” section for the next generation of makers!
And, for their final show of Summer 2023:
El Segundo, The Works, Sunday, July 2nd, 11 am – 5 pm. Free admission.
According to host company Dear Handmade Life’s website, special DIY activities and a parking map will be posted soon. What I can tell you, so far, is that (a) they have more than 60 vendors scheduled; and (b) from past great experience, pretty much anything host company/dedicated small artists’ business Dear Handmade Life produces, is going to be amazing!
And, then there’s…
Santa Barbara Lavender Festival
Old Mission Santa Barbara, Saturday, June 24th, 10 am – 4 pm. Free admission.
A celebration of creativity and all things lavender, I’m thrilled to see this show continue! We know this as the “Ojai Lavender Festival”, and kudos to the new organizers for keeping it going.
While I don’t have a specific listing of this year’s vendors, exhibiting artists are encouraged to incorporate lavender and lavender themes into their work as much as possible. When we visited before, that translated into some gorgeous paintings, fantastic soaps and even lavender ice cream!
Also, local entertainment is featured, and the bands we heard were both top-notch and having a great time sharing their talents. This year’s entertainment lineup has been published on the Festival website, and is an intriguing-sounding, eclectic program which includes jazz music, Irish dancing and hula.
And, last but NEVER least…
Supporting artists since 1936, this nonprofit group of talented artists exhibit in multiple venues, in Southern California.
CRAFTED, 112 East 22nd Street, Friday – Sunday, noon – 6pm
(Royalty-free image by Pedro Márquez from Pixabay.)
According to their newsletter, more than 35 of their members exhibit their work weekly in their booth at CRAFTED Marketplace, in San Pedro. Photography, watercolor, jewelry, woodcarving and metalworking are just a few of the media in which they share their gifts.
Closer to Buena Park? Look for SPAA at Buena Park Farmers Market, in the Buena Park Mall every Saturday, 9 am – 2 pm.
Or, if you’re in the L.A. area, find them at Melrose Trading Post, Fairfax High School, on North Fairfax at Clinton, every Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm.
And–that’s it for now! Have fun exploring and Christmas shopping!
And please, don’t leave gift wrapping till the last minute, like someone you (ahem) may know, but who shall remain nameless.
Continue reading → - A Mother’s Day DIY Experience May 4, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
What have been some of your most special times with your Mom?
For Mother’s Day, 2023, International Printing Museum, in Carson, would like to help you plan another one.
On Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 14th, they’ll be hosting their “Mother’s and Makers Letterpress Type Slam”.
This is a four-hour workshop where you can learn to create and print custom posters. On the curriculum: some of the history of letterpress printing, how to select wood type from the Museum’s collection of vintage printers, and how to lock up a form in a chase, ink, and print.
Royalty-free image by Manfred Richter from Pixabay
And you’re invited to come join them, to create custom posters as a gift for your Mom or a mother figure in your life. Or simply for fun.
But also, if you mother is local, you’re invited to bring her and learn together, for a special Mother’s Day afternoon.
This is a very hands-on, active workshop, which culminates in a print exchange where you can take away a portfolio of prints made during the course.
Never done printing before? All levels are welcome, and it’s going to be fun! However, class size is limited to 10 students, so now would be the time to find out more. Here’s the link for registration.
The International Printing Museum is located at 315 West Torrance Boulevard, east of the Harbor Freeway in Carson. Their “Mother’s and Makers Type Slam” happens this Sunday, May 14th, from noon to 4 pm, and the course fee is $75 per attendee.
Continue reading → - An SPAA “First” April 13, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
This weekend, San Pedro Art Association breaks new ground.
Tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday, they’re hosting their first annual “Recycled Art Festival”, at CRAFTED in San Pedro!
And it’s going to combine all the best elements of SPAA, with caring for our planet.
You’ll get a chance to support the artists and purchase all kinds of cool creations. The art will have started off as items that would otherwise have been discarded, as SPAA’s talented artists “give trash a second chance”.
(Royalty-free image by Uwe Baumann from Pixabay.)
You’ll also get to exercise your own creativity. There will be a “make and take” table for kids–and for us “tall kids”.
On Saturday, April 15th, there will also be live music.
And especially, you’ll get to learn more about recycling and upcycling, as you visit with exhibiting artists and organizations as they work to make a difference.
(Royalty-free image by Colbey Miskech from Pixabay.)
Proceeds from SPAA’s Recycled Art Festival help to benefit nonprofits Angel Gowns, Birdie’s Kids, Heal the Bay, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and Marine Mammal Care Center.
As Earth Week begins (April 14-22nd, with Earth Day 2023 happening on April 22nd), you’re invited to be a part of this eco-friendly celebration of creativity and our blue home.
SPAA’s first annual Recycled Art Festival happens Friday through Sunday, April 14th through 16th, from 9 am to 5 pm at CRAFTED in San Pedro. CRAFTED is located at 112 East 22nd Street, at Miner.
Continue reading → - SPAA’s New “First” January 11, 2023
by Noella Noelophile®
Attention, artists! San Pedro Art Association is looking for you, right now.
They’d like to have you take part in something new and exciting.
In April, SPAA hosts their first annual Recycle Festival. Currently, they’re recruiting recycle and assemblage artists, to participate in this three-day event.
Dates are April 14th, 15th and 16th, and the place is CRAFTED Port of LA marketplace.
“Playing With Trash Has Never Been So Fun” is the slogan for the SPAA Recycle Festival. And it certainly does sound like a blast! Activities they’re listing include DIY make and takes, as well as exhibitions of recycled artwork.
(Royalty-free image by Artur Konik from Pixabay.)
So–what could that plastic bottle or glass jar become, besides a plastic bottle or glass jar? What are the possibilities for that empty egg carton? Those cardboard boxes? That–well, you get the idea. (And in all probability, will come up with some unique answers!)
The cost to participate in the Festival is $20 for each artist’s table, with $10 of that amount going to support a great cause: the SPAA Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition, happening this summer!
Like to know more? SPAA says if you call Debbie Sue, at (310) 612-1949, she’ll fill you in on the details.
San Pedro Art Association’s first annual “SPAA Recycle Festival” happens Friday, April 14th through Sunday, April 16th, at Crafted Port of LA, 112 East 22nd Street (at Miner), in San Pedro.
Continue reading → - Talent and Tradition By the Sea November 27, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
(Artwork courtesy of Hilary Gross, and used with permission.)
More than 40 talented artists greet you. The scent of freshly-brewed coffee fills the air. You walk along, admiring handcrafted ceramics, jewelry, wooden Christmas ornaments and innumerable other unique gift items. Gingerbread, popcorn and chocolate brownies tantalize you as you walk by a refreshment area. Music from a topnotch local band fills the air.
Further along, a beloved local crafting group, the Muir Beach Quilters, invites you to inspect their handiwork. As you browse their intricately-created quilts (wouldn’t that one look fantastic in your bedroom?), you notice that they’ve also made gloves and scarves. Meanwhile, at a nearby table, a member of the Muir Beach Volunteer Fire Department patiently answers questions from a wide-eyed five-year-old who wants to be a firefighter when she grows up. The five-year-old beams as she tries on a “MBVFD” logo cap.
(Artwork courtesy of Debra Allen, and used with permission.)
Sound like a highly tempting Christmas shopping experience? That’s only because–it is. The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair. a Christmastime tradition for more than forty years, returns to the Muir Beach Community Center, the first weekend in December.
Admission is free, and the show is happening both Saturday, December 3rd, and Sunday, December 4th.
Started in 1972, the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair was initially an informal event, according to their website. Held at a local resident’s home, this first fair was envisioned as a big community party.
(Artwork courtesy of MB Quilters, and used with permission.)
Along the way, though, the fair would evolve into the Muir Beach Quilters Fair. And it would serve as a vehicle for accomplishing their threefold mission.
The first aim, as written in their mission statement, was simply to host the aforementioned party for the community.
But in addition, the Arts Fair would become an annual showcase for local artisans’ work. And the third goal: to raise money for a community center.
(Artwork courtesy of Craig Eichenbaum, and used with permission.)
Today, that community center, built in 1978, hosts the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair. After the Muir Beach Quilters discontinued their event following the 2013 show, local residents stepped in to continue the tradition.
And today, the Fair has two goals.
First, to raise money to for Muir Beach’s local community district. All year long, community events, including concerts, a children’s Halloween party and summer and winter solstice celebrations, are funded by proceeds from the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair.
And secondly, the original objective: to showcase the work of the gifted local artists and artisans, giving them a chance to sell their work and make some extra money during the Christmas season.
(Artwork courtesy of MB Garden Club, and used with permission.)
Of course, the festive atmosphere continues. And so does a sense of “giving back”.
If you stop by “Cafe Q”, you’ll be treated to a free coffee or tea. Community groups, such as the MBVFA, Quilters & Garden Club get offered a free table at the Fair. And you’ll see a Junior Artisans’/Kids’ table, where the youngest creatives get a chance to sell their handiwork.
All this, plus the breathtaking views of the area, three miles from Muir Woods, might just add up to a great start for your California Christmas season.
The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair happens Saturday, December 3rd, from 10 am to6 pm, and Sunday, December 4th, from 10 am to 4 pm, at the Muir Beach Community Center, 19 Seascape Drive, southwest of Shoreline Highway. Admission is free.
Continue reading →
- Salute to “Small Business Saturday” November 26, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
(Royalty-free image by Ray Miller from Pixabay.)
Okay, here’s a dilemma.
Over the years of doing this blog, I’ve had the pleasure of talking with so many talented small-business owners that I’ll never be able to name them all!
No matter who gets profiled here, I’m going to miss mentioning someone. Let me try, though, to name several talented artists and makers whose work you might like to see as we celebrate “Small Business Saturday”.
Something new has been added
(Royalty-free image by traveller537 from Pixabay.)
Starting off with one that’s new this year: Meglet’s Cottage.
“Happiness is being creative,” says proprietor Meg on her Facebook page.
And the designs she’s sharing are enough to make anyone happy.
In just the past few weeks, she’s displayed button Christmas trees (who would have thought of those? Not me!), wooden handpainted “gift tag” ornaments and, my favorite–wooden reindeer with all kinds of festive Christmas patterns!
Rumor has it that Meg may be planning some handcrafted-art workshops in the future. For now, you can see her work at the above link and on her “Chalk Couture” page.
Wowing with graphics
(Photo courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild.)
Two years ago, I had the opportunity to interview Kards by Angie proprietor Angela Jackson.
I’m still wowed by the fact that she’s never had formal graphic-arts training.
Angie can design greeting cards for any occasion imaginable–and her work is absolutely gorgeous.
My personal favorite, for this Christmas season, is her red poinsettia with the sparkly red and green accents. But she also has a striking Kwanzaa card, as well as her African designs and her whimsical dog tangled up in Christmas lights.
That’s only one aspect of her work. You might also like to check out her birthday, flowers (those ribbon roses and lilies especially!) and general-occasion greeting cards.
As a small business, she can also craft individual cards if you just need one or two.
And if you’d like to meet and chat with her as you browse her work, Angie is exhibiting tomorrow, November 27th, in San Pedro–and has upcoming shows in Redondo Beach and San Pedro. Here’s a link to her schedule.
Steampunk creative
How do you craft jewelry and create something brand-new?
Well, if you’re Ali Krajewski, you combine Victorian and steampunk influences to make some very fun, imaginative things.
Ali, who is the proprietor of Long Beach-based Accessory Alchemy, has that gift down to a science.
Steampunk clock faces and porcelain Victorian roses adorn the barrettes she makes. Her earring selection includes Gothic-looking Victorian teardrop dangles, steampunk clock faces and eye-catching skeleton keys.
For the men, her creations include compass and clock-face cuff links, money clips with gears and tie clips featuring vintage watch faces.
My all-time favorite of her creations, however, is the miniature Christmas tree pendant under a tiny miniature dome. I wear mine every year, and so do several of my gift recipients!
According to her “Find Me” link on her website, Ali will also be exhibiting her work in the upcoming weeks: both at L.A. Comic-Con, December 2nd through 4th, and at Jackalope Burbank, December 10th and 11th.
His time is your heirloom
Okay, let us not be sexist about this. So far I’ve spotlighted some amazing women makers (with two more coming up).
But let’s also showcase a man who’s creating something amazing: woodworker David Ortega, of Heirlooms Etc.
David creates Craftsman- and mission-style mantel clocks and accessories. While his talent as a woodworker shines through his coat racks, tissue boxes and picture frames, his clocks are my personal favorite.
Each named for a different tree, these have that warm, burnished-wood look. These strike me (sorry, I’ll stick to my day job!) as a great special gift for someone. In fact, years ago, my mom and I went in together to buy my favorite uncle a handcrafted grandfather clock, which stood in his living room for the rest of his lifetime. I’m reminded of that clock every time I see David’s work.
While his Etsy page doesn’t show any upcoming appearances, it certainly does exhibit some beautiful work at which you might like to take a look.
Magic and miniatures
Is The Enchanted Wren magical–or just very talented?
Yes.
There seems to be very little that paper and fiber artist Barb Lieberman can’t do.
Her Etsy store creations include paper art, paper earrings, enchanted miniatures and stickers–all inspired by magic and nature. Her miniature “Moss Embroidery with Pumpkin” is a personal favorite. However, I can’t wait to see what Yule-themed art she may come up with!
Barb has been known to share her art by teaching classes in the past, and I can only hope she’ll do that online in the future. Meanwhile, if you’re in the Bay Area, you may get a chance to meet her firsthand, next Saturday, December 3rd. She’ll be one of the exhibiting artists in San Francisco School of Needlework and Design’s “Fantastic Fiber Fair”!
Seeds of magic
And last but by no means least is Ellie Lieberman, proprietor of Acorn Tops.
Ellie’s creative style leans heavily towards enchantment.
With the goal of bringing magic into daily life, Ellie carves, stitches, paints–and infuses magic into her work.
Carved fairy doors are her specialty, along with stitched sachets (her fabric trees and stars would make excellent stocking stuffers!), and her ornaments are eye-catching and unique. Meanwhile, if anyone in your house happens to be allergic to scent (and one of our cats is!), she can craft a pumpkin, star, Christmas tree, heart etc. that’s scent-free.
My personal favorite of her creations is a red Christmas-themed fairy door, which is usually one of the first ornaments we unwrap and set out as we decorate. But she also makes fairy houses, handpainted ornaments and scented bookmarks.
Bookmarks? Well, like her mom, Barb, Ellie is a gifted author. Don’t miss her Christmas story “The Memory Tree”, her novel, “Be” and her first novella, “Society’s Foundlings”, among her books!
And if you’d like a great, Christmasy read that features both their talents, check out a copy of the multi-author anthology “Enchanting Yuletide”, in which both Barb and Ellie have published Christmas stories!
Happy Small Business Saturday! Now–who are some of your favorite small businesses that you’d like to support, this Christmas season?
Continue reading → - SFSNAD: Tradition Meets Innovation November 23, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
Stand by–San Francisco School of Needlework and Design may be starting a new Christmastime tradition!
“Hopefully, this becomes something that’s a regular event,” says SFSNAD Co-Founder Lucy Barter.
“This” is the school’s new Fantastic Fiber Fair, happening on Saturday, December 3rd! More than 20 artisans–local, emerging, and established–will be on hand. They’ll be exhibiting all kinds of enchanting creations, showcasing the art of hand stitching, fiber, craft, and embroidery.
And, the other 364 days
(Royalty-free image by Kateryna from Pixabay.)
But year-round, San Francisco School of Needlework and Design is something special. A nonprofit, their goal is to share and celebrate the tradition of needlework in the twenty-first century.
And while you may think you know needlework, a conversation with Lucy reveals a LOT of different aspects to the art. Maybe you were familiar with goldwork, whitework, blackwork and all the different types of needlework from around the world–but I certainly wasn’t!
What’s exciting about SFSNAD–as staffers affectionately call it–is that their approach is multifaceted. They offer onsite classes, with both staffers and guest lecturers. Not to mention online courses and introductory “Technique Taster” sessions, in case you’d like to try your hand at a new aspect of needlecraft. Needlepainting looks pretty tempting to me, but this is your choice!
Then, there are their free, worldwide “Stitch In” sessions. There’s one online session and one onsite, weekly, and everyone’s welcome.
Plus? The free biannual “Stitch at Home Challenge”. Here’s the link for information: SFSNAD’s next Challenge deadline is January 15, 2023 for online entries, and January 30th for work to be received for display in their “Hanging Thread Gallery”.
And Lucy has some exciting credentials, as she continues sharing her expertise. She trained, and later taught, at the Royal School of Needlework!
San Francisco School of Needlework and Design hosts their inaugural “Fantastic Fiber Fair” on Saturday, December 3rd, from 11 am to 4 pm at 850 Battery Street, at Vallejo. You’ll find them on the second floor.
Continue reading →
- SPAA and Santa November 10, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
(Royalty-free image by karosieben from Pixabay.)
“Do you believe in Santa Claus?”
A classmate asked me that in sixth grade. He was standing ready to jeer if I’d said “yes”.
Like any insecure eleven-year-old, I shook my head.
And knew that I was lying.
Somehow, today, that would still be a total fib!
The best part of Santa, is that we all get to be Santa.
(Royalty-free image by Lucy Chibimundo from Pixabay.)
And that’s exactly what San Pedro Art Association is doing, starting tomorrow.
This Friday, November 11th, SPAA kicks off their “Harbor Interfaith Christmas Toy Drive”. And they’d like your help in filling the sleigh.
Please consider dropping off a new, unwrapped toy for a local child in need, at either of their two locations? From Friday through Sunday, from 12 to 6 pm, you can bring new toys to their gallery at CRAFTED, 112 West 22nd Street, in San Pedro.
(Royalty-free image by Susanne Jutzeler, Schweiz, from Pixabay.)
Or, if you prefer, starting this weekend, you can find the “elves” at SPAA’s Farmers Market booth in Buena Park. They’ll be there every Saturday, from 9 to 2 pm, at the corner of La Palma and Stanton.
Now–there is a deadline. So that there’s plenty of time to see what the reindeer have to deal with, SPAA requests that all donations be in by December 11th.
And while you’re channeling your inner Santa, get a look at what the talented members of San Pedro Art Association have created. They’ve been supporting artists for 85 years and counting (and Happy Anniversary to them!). You may just want to consider their beautiful paintings, jewelry, wood carvings, ceramics and other unique creations for anyone on your “nice” list–including you.
San Pedro Art Association will be collecting new, unwrapped toys for their “Harbor Interfaith Christmas Toy Drive” from Friday, November 11th through Sunday, December 11th, at two locations. Gifts can be dropped off Friday through Sunday, from noon to 6 pm, at their gallery at CRAFTED, 112 West 22nd Street, at Miner, in San Pedro, or every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm at their Farmer’s Market booth, at the corner of La Palma and Stanton in Buena Park.
Continue reading → - Bobbi J: Thoughtful Beauty October 29, 2022
by Noella Noelophile ®
(Photograph courtesy of Angela Jazmin, and used with permission.)
Iridescent greens create a sealike pattern on cuff links. Metal swirls mimic the pattern of water on gold and silver rings. A soft-pink shell inlay nestles in a silver curved hoop earring.
And these are just three examples of the artistry of Jessica Linahan.
Jess, as she prefers to be called, is currently celebrating the ten-year anniversary of her San Francisco-based artisan jewelry business, Bobbi J. Her designs, she says, are inspired by the patterns and motions she sees in nature, as well as by her heritage. And she’s careful to work in harmony with the environment.
Specifically, no abalone are harmed in the creation of her abalone-shell inlay work. Instead, Jess and her family visit beaches up and down the California coast, collecting broken pieces of abalone shell. Often, those broken pieces lead her to new creative ideas during the handcutting process.
And if she finds a live abalone?
“We put them right back in the ocean,” Jess says.
Meanwhile, she’s creating beauty from the broken pieces she finds. Just two examples are her inlay wedding bands and metal charms.
But Jess doesn’t only work with abalone shells. Her “lookbook” includes pieces in bronze, sterling silver, and gold, along with pearl drops and birthstones.
Jess talked about discovering her creative path, and her goals for the future of Bobbi J. And, heads-up: she’s exhibiting in two upcoming crafts shows at Fort Mason: Renegade Craft San Francisco and West Coast Craft!
Continue reading → - Mark Your Calendar! October 20, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
Crafts alert! A bunch of fantastic shows are coming up.
You get to browse unique items made with love.
Often, the artists you’ll see are jury-selected.(Photo courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild.)
Many times, participants can do custom orders if you have something special in mind.
But be warned–much of what you’ll see is irresistible.
Here are just a few dates to put on your calendar NOW, before you get super busy for Christmas season 2022.
October 22-23, 11 am – 6 pm, San Francisco.
Public Glass, 1750 Armstrong Avenue.
(Royalty-free image by Del Green from Pixabay)
Nonprofit Public Glass will host their Open Studio hours both days, with seven artists exhibiting. You’ll also get to see some demonstrations of their craft!
And there will be plenty to see, as glass artist Maria Enomoto emails: adjacent Yosemite Place Studios, one building over, will offer open studio hours both days, as well. While I literally just found out about them, their Facebook page shows them offering all kinds of cool stuff: jewelry, pottery, paintings, furniture, photography…and they list their event as “dog-friendly”, so your furry friend can accompany you as you browse.
(Photograph courtesy of Maria Enomoto, and used with permission.)
(While Maria has had a change of plans and will not be onsite those days, be sure to look for her beautiful bowls, glass containers and additional gift items, as well. Some of her work will be available in the gallery–and don’t miss my earlier interview with her, for a closer look at the craft of glassblowing!)
October 22, 10 am – 5 pm, Newport Beach.
Newport Beach Civic Center Green, 100 Civic Center Drive.
(Royalty-free image by Juan Torres from Pixabay.)
More than 125 artists will be on hand for Newport Beach Arts Foundation’s 17th annual “Art in the Park” Fine Arts and Artisans Fair!
Ceramics, sculpture, wood art, mixed media and textiles are just a few of the media in which these gifted creatives work. Admission and parking are free, and if you have junior gifted future or present artists with you, they’ll get a chance to participate in art activities, courtesy of Chuck Jones Center for Creativity.
November 6, 11 am – 5 pm, Old Town Tustin.
Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival, 245 El Camino Real.
This is the first of a series of FIVE Patchwork Show Festivals happening up and down the state of California, this Christmas season!
Patchwork Show is a longtime favorite of mine, with DIY workshops, music stages, food trucks and all kinds of incredible handcrafted gifts. Tustin, according to their website, is their newest venue, and this is an outdoor show, happening in the Farmer’s Market Lot.
In the past, I couldn’t resist the scented soaps, hand-dipped chocolates (ummmmm-mmm-mmm!) and handpainted cards at the Long Beach and Santa Ana shows. You’re likely to find all kinds of special things and may even get your Christmas shopping done early.
Oh, and watch out for those artisan popsicles. They have an alarming tendency to jump into your mouth.
Not in the Tustin area or can’t make it this weekend? Upcoming Patchwork Show Modern Maker Festivals are happening in Long Beach, Oakland, Santa Rosa and Ventura over the next few weekends! Here’s the link to their schedule.
November 12-13, 10 am – 3 pm, Torrance.
Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild, Torrance Cultural Arts Center.
Madrona and Torrance Boulevard.
Happy Anniversary to 501 (c) (3) nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild, as they host their 53rd Annual Crafts and Fall Faire!
This is always a festive, community-oriented show. A DJ on the patio provides music, as visitors browse three rooms of beautiful handcrafted items. Refreshments are available, and you’ll get an early peek at renderings of the Torrance Rose Float (with a great chance to support Torrance Rose Float Association as they prepare for the upcoming Rose Parade®!).
(Royalty-free image by Silke Wurm from Pixabay.)
My favorite purchases from TCG, in the past, have included Christmas earrings, absolutely gorgeous photography greeting cards (fields of California flowers!), gingerbread-doll Christmas decorations and candles. But you’re certain to find your own treasures. Admission and parking are free.
AND–can you believe I’ve barely scratched the surface here? Still haven’t told you about Jackalope Arts, Muir Beach or any of the other venues that have something special coming up in the crafts-show department.
Next time.
Continue reading → - “Maria Made…” Something Amazing October 15, 2022
by Noella Noelophile ®
(Photograph courtesy of Maria Enomoto, and used with permission.)
Glassblowing. What comes to mind when you hear that word?
Did you think, “working with a partner”? Or “2100-degree molten glass”? Or “you get about ten seconds to shape it as you want”?
Probably not. But all of those are realities of the craft, says San Francisco-based glass artist Maria Enomoto.
And working with those realities, she’s created some breathtakingly beautiful things.
(Photograph courtesy of Maria Enomoto, and used with permission.)
My personal favorites are on her “other” page, on her website: some almost-liquid blues and greens. I also really liked the rock candy-like shapes with rainbow colors, for one of her plates. Containers, cups, glasses and bowls are just a few of the other items she crafts in the studio.
(Photograph courtesy of Maria Enomoto, and used with permission.)
And–for your early Christmas shopping pleasure–Maria has a table at the upcoming “Open Studio”, happening at Public Glass on October 22nd and 23rd. Follow her on Instagram at maria_made_a_thing for times and updates on other future shows! Or, you can subscribe to her newsletter, for more information.
(Photograph courtesy of Maria Enomotos, and used with permission.)
For our first Noelophile® artist profile, Maria talked about her creative journey, some of her favorite experiences and a brand-new creative avenue she’s exploring!
Continue reading → - A Creative Tradition September 27, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
(Image courtesy of San Francisco School of Needlework and Design, and used with permission.)
Needlework. What comes to mind when you hear that word?
Did you think of goldwork? Or of art from around the world? Or of new applications that could inspire the next generation of artists?
Perhaps not. But nonprofit San Francisco School of Needlework and Design may very well change all that.
Co-founded in 2015 by needlework artists Lucy Barter and Ellice Sperber, this is a world-class artists’ studio–dedicated to preserving and sharing the various aspects of textile artistry.
As you see above, they’re having a special event–to which you’re invited–on Saturday, December 3rd. And you’re cordially invited to come by, meet their talented artists and see what treasures you find, for Christmas season 2022.
However, a lot of other exciting things are happening between now and then.
(Royalty-free image by Kateryna from Pixabay.)
SFSNAD, as staffers affectionately call it, hosts regular workshops–both virtual and on-site. This weekend’s offerings include the online “Introduction to Embroidery Animal” class (take a look, that very cute reindeer certainly caught my attention!). In-person classes include “Introduction to Embroidery” and a “Technique Tasters” session, on needlepoint.
That’s just this weekend.
As you plan for Christmas, and wonder what to give some of the special people in your life, you may very well like to check out SFSNAD’s upcoming in-person needlepainting courses. Or their online goldwork “Technique Taster”, in mid-October. Or their onsite “Bite-Size Embroidery for Beginners“, happening twice monthly.
Not to mention gift-giving an experience! It strikes me that any one of these classes would make a fantastic gift for someone special.
And…I still haven’t done them justice.
(Royalty-free image by Bruno /Germany from Pixabay.)
Definitely check out their Stitch-At-Home Challenge! They’ll be posting results of their recent one, “Purple Reign”, shortly. Then, there will be another one coming up in which you can participate if you’d like–wherever you’re located geographically!
One final thing (though I’ve barely scratched the surface of all they do, here). SFSNAD offers an online get-together for stitchery! While the website doesn’t yet offer new dates for their “Free Weekly Virtual Stitch-Ins“, I had the pleasure of interviewing SFSNAD co-founder Lucy Barter recently. Lucy said they’ll soon be posting some additional dates for needlecrafters of all types and skill levels to meet on Zoom and socialize as they stitch.
Hmmm. I may just have to break out that crewel painting of the Italian harbor which I’ve been planning to do for ten years, and join them.
Purely for journalistic research, of course.
San Francisco School of Needlework and Design is located on the second floor of 850 Battery Street, at Vallejo, in San Francisco.
Continue reading → - SPAA Spotlights Student Talent August 11, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
(SPAA Student Art Show, 2015.)
Would you like to help San Pedro Art Association encourage some talented artists?
Mark your calendar for Sunday afternoon, August 21st, 2-5 pm in San Pedro. Free admission, refreshments and a chance to see a lot of kids smile!
But before I give you more specifics, here’s a quick story.
A favorite memory
The time: the 1960s. The place: a public-school classroom in New York. Thanksgiving is a few weeks away, and a first-grade class is hard at work, making turkeys out of cone-shaped posterboard.
Once the students color their cones, they will attach a red turkey head with wattle.
One six-year-old has a different idea than her classmates.
As the others swipe brown crayon across their turkeys’ body shape, she instead uses a variety of colors. One small square is blue. Another is yellow. A third is her favorite color, magenta. And so on, all around the cone.
It takes her what seems like forever.
(Royalty-free image by mijung Park from Pixabay.)
Then the teacher attaches the red turkey heads to her students’ work. The art project is finished, ready for Thanksgiving.
Before giving the students back their turkeys, the teacher finds the variegated one and holds it up.
“Children–look at this turkey.”
The classroom erupts in laughter.
But the teacher isn’t mocking her student’s different interpretation. Her next words?
“It looks like a real one.”
Six words of encouragement—and I think you know who the student was. I’ve been exploring, and celebrating, creativity, ever since.
And I still have yet to make a “simple” creative project!
What that teacher did, is exactly what San Pedro Art Association is doing with their 2022 Harbor-Wide All Grades Student Art Competition. They’re just doing so on a larger scale.
The reception
Annually, San Pedro Art Association invites area K-12 students to submit their work for the Harbor Wide Student Art Competition. With three competition categories–elementary, middle school and high school–cash prizes go to the top four winners in each.
And all participants receive both recognition and art supplies.
On Sunday, April 21st at CRAFTED, in San Pedro, you’re invited to be part of that appreciative audience who may well inspire students to spend their lives developing their creativity. The artist reception runs from 2 to 5 pm, and you’re invited!
(SPAA Student Art Show, 2015.)
SPAA says in their recent newsletter that more than 400 students have submitted their work this year. The top twelve winners will have their artwork professionally framed and shown at CRAFTED on weekends, through October 2nd.
Meanwhile, more than 100 of the selected pieces will also be shown, both at CRAFTED and on SPAA’s student-art website.
Now–can you help?
If you’re in the area and have some free time, a week from Sunday, SPAA does need some volunteers to help staff the reception. You can contact them through their website, or through their Facebook page. Better yet, leave them a message, at 310-612-1949 .
And decades from now, you may just be part of an artist’s favorite memory.
San Pedro Art Association hosts their artists’ reception for the winners of their 2022 Harbor Wide Student Art Competition on Sunday, August 21st from 2-5 pm at CRAFTED, 112 East 22nd Street (at Miner) in San Pedro. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - New Creative Avenues March 4, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
Books are a lifelong love for me.
Crafts run a very close second.
If that’s true for you, as well, you might like to check out The International Printing Museum, in Torrance. They’ve just opened their brand-new Book Arts Institute teaching lab!
And they’re currently accepting registrations for all kinds of weekend book- and printing-related workshops.
You’ll recall that The International Printing Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of working antique printing presses. During holidays, they host special events, such as last December’s “Holiday Krafts Day for Kids”. Often, visitors get the opportunity to print something special (greeting cards, posters, gift tags) on a vintage printer.
Now, you’ll get a chance to present your best literary works in a handcrafted edition.
Or, if you’d rather, create custom posters for your living space or upcoming event. Or craft unique cards for the special people in your life.
Currently, the Book Arts Institute lists five new classes for which they’re accepting registrations. Most are one-day workshops, running between six and seven hours with a one-hour lunch break. (The exception: “Composing and Impressions with Metal Type”, which is a two-day course in April.)
Course offerings
Royalty-free image by Foundry Co from Pixabay The first listed workshop, “Women’s History Month Wood Type Posters”, happens Saturday, March 19th. Artist and award-winning typography educator Christina Aumann is the instructor for this inaugural workshop. Among the areas the class will cover: how to handset wood type, and the basics of printing with a Vandercook proofing press.
Royalty-free image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay I’m particularly intrigued by the workshop which studio artist and author Madeline Holland will offer, on Saturday, March 26th: “Sumingashi Marbling and Japanese Binding”. “Suminagashi”, in Japanese, means “floating ink”, and is an art which dates back to twelfth-century Japan. A look at the Book Arts Institute’s page reveals beautiful and delicate swirls created with this technique.
In April, Christina and Marilyn will be offering workshops in “Composing & Impressions with Metal Type” and “Intro to Bookbinding”, respectively. And in May, International Printing Museum Founding Director /Curator Mark Barbour will host “Intro to Printing on a Platen Press”.
Fees for the workshops range from $125 to $250 for the two day workshop. Class sizes are generally small: most often, eight students, though the “Suminagashi Marbling” and “Intro to Bookbinding” will accept ten. You’ll find all the information here.
The International Printing Museum, in Carson, is located at 315 West Torrance Boulevard, west of Main Street, in Carson. The Museum is open Saturdays, 10 am to 4 pm, and Tuesday through Friday, by appointment only. Here’s the link to check out the Museum’s blog, their newsletter and their community services to local schools and organizations!
Continue reading → - Love Aspects February 5, 2022
by Noella Noelophile®
Royalty-free image by Gordon Johnson from Pixabay What are the loves of your life?
You may well answer that question with a list.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, now seems like a great time to explore some of those. Not to mention (or count) the ways in which you and I may explore them further, for Valentine’s Day or any day of the year.
So, here is my list! Or part of it, anyway.
(Royalty-free image by Lubos Houska from Pixabay.) “There is no frigate…”
At the very top–books. They’ve been companions, comforters and new-adventure providers for as long as I’ve been able to read.
And Emily Dickinson had it right: “There is no frigate like a book/To take us lands away…”
If that’s your sentiment as well, you’ll love the options from some of the local libraries–and a great indie bookstore.
E-books were never my first choice, as a reader. I like the feeling of a book in my hands! But with the pandemic receding, yet still a consideration, I’ve been borrowing ebooks from the Long Beach Public Library.
While you’re almost certain to miss being able to flip back and read a favorite scene, there’s an upside. You may well find new favorites you would have completely bypassed, walking among the stacks!
For example, I really liked Klara and the Sun, by Kazuo Ishiguro. Promoted on the front page of the library’s website, this futuristic sci-fi novel, told from the viewpoint of a compassionate and loyal robot, is a real page-turner with believable characters and some surprise twists.
But, if you’d rather own the book and have it in your library? Indie bookstores are another favorite for me. How about you?
Sandpiper Books, in Torrance, is one such favorite. They stock new, rare, and “gently used” books.
“We are book people,” says their website. Pre-COVID, Sandpiper Books hosted amazing author events and had some incredible stock–including a new hardback cover of a personal favorite, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, by Betty Smith.
Currently, according to their website, the pandemic has forced them to temporarily close. But here is a link to their list of their new store arrivals and indie bestsellers. And you might like to follow them on Facebook and Instagram, for updates as we hope to move through the pandemic and back to some semblance of normal. (And huge virtual applause to Tish and her crew, for doing their best to keep everyone safe in this mess!)
Hearts and hands
Making things, and being around others who do so, is another of my loves.
Since starting this blog, I’ve had the privilege of meeting the most amazing, talented artists and artisans.
No way can I include all of them in this post. Suffice it to say, though, that you’ll meet quite a few of them if you’re out and about (masked and social-distanced, please–and in the interest of honesty, I am isolating until the numbers come down. If you’re in the same position, the shows I’m about to mention are annual ones. And several of them have a virtual component!)
Here are several favorite all-handmade fairs.
- Torrance Craftmen’s Guild.
March 19th is the date of their “22nd Annual Arts and Crafts Spring Faire”. Free admission and parking, and they always have beautiful jewelry, ceramics and needlework. Face coverings are required, and the show runs from 10 am to 3 pm at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, Torrance Boulevard and Madrona.
- Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.
In addition to their California shows (Pasadena and Burbank), they host juried strictly-handmade shows in Minneapolis and Denver. Currently, they’re accepting applications, but deadlines are coming up quickly for the Pasadena and Burbank springtime shows! Here’s the link to apply, for those and for their “Local Undercover Online Marketplace”.
The California spring shows are:
Pasadena, April 23rd and 24th, in Pasadena’s Central Park, at Raymond and Del Mar;
Burbank, May 14th and 15th. I believe the location will, once again, be downtown Burbank, but don’t see it on their website as yet.
Admission to the shows is free. With 150 local artisans though, good luck leaving without your arms full of treasures! I’ve tried, I’ve really tried (but not very hard!).
AND–if you aren’t able to physically attend their shows, here’s the link to their “Local Undercover” Virtual Marketplace!
- Patchwork Show Modern Makers Festival
Exhibitor applications open February 25th for their late spring and early summer (!–already!), shows. They have FOUR events scheduled in California cities. These are:
Long Beach: May 29th, in Marine Stadium. According to their website, this is their largest show, featuring more than 250 makers;
Tustin, June 4th and 5th, in Old Town Tustin. Their newest location!;
Oakland, June 11th in Jack London Square;
And, Santa Rosa, June 25th and 26th, in Old Courthouse Square., downtown Santa Rosa.
The Patchwork Shows I’ve attended have been very much a celebration of local artists, with live music, DIY stations and food trucks, in addition to all kinds of treasures to explore.
And Patchwork Show is just one feature of Dear Handmade Life, a DIY creatives’ community helmed by artist/entrepreneur Nicole Stevenson. In addition to the Patchwork Festival, Nicole offers the yearly “Craftcation” Business and Makers’ Conference, in Ventura. The next conference is set for April 6-10 if you’d like to attend!
Just add purrs
Ready for a third “love of my life”?
It starts with “meow”.
I’ve been cat-crazy ever since our first kitten, “Susie”, came into my life.
If you similarly love felines but can’t have one for whatever reason, Long Beach Felines has you covered.
In 2019, they opened “Feline Good Social Club” in downtown Long Beach. I had the pleasure of being onsite to greet their purry residents and admire the acrobatic skills of “Fancy Feet”, as detailed in an earlier post.
Visitors can book a session to cuddle with one or more of twenty-four felines onsite. The club also hosts cat-oriented social activities, including yoga and paint nights with the kitties “supurrvising”.
Although the pandemic forced the building into temporary closure, they’re back now, with some Valentine-themed activities coming up next weekend.
Friday, February 11th, through Monday, the 14th, they’ll host “Happy Meower 2022” with wine, chocolate and kitties. When I went online to check for availability, there was ONE one-hour appointment left on Monday, February 14th. So if you want that date, now is the time to “pounce”! (There are, however, several one-hour slots still open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $25 per person, and advance booking is required, as is wearing a mask when you come in. Here’s the link for information.)
And–if you want one more “Valenfeline” event–they have one! On Saturday, February 12th, they’re also hosting a “Comedy and Cats” show, from 8 to 9 pm. Tickets are $25 each, and there are a few spaces left. Here’s that link, as well.
Now, what if you’re isolating, due to the pandemic? You can still support nonprofit Long Beach Felines if you’d like, by making a donation or buying one or more of the items listed on Feline Good Social Club’s “wish list”. Here’s the link, if you’d like to help.
And, those are three of the loves of my life! Now–what are some of yours?
Continue reading →
Happy Valentine’s Day! - Stardust for Christmas November 30, 2021
What are the elements of magic?
Anaheim-based Museum of Make Believe has innumerable answers. But at the heart of all of them, is storytelling.
And that’s exactly what they’ll be doing, this Sunday, December 5, at a special Christmas event.
Here is Museum of Make Believe co-founder Amy Mitchell, with both a preview of “Dickens Christmas Stories” as well as the story of the Museum and a closer look at their programs.
Starting at 1:00 on Sunday afternoon, Museum of Make Believe hosts “Dickens Christmas Stories”, at Anaheim’s Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center. The one-hour program includes Yuletide tales, games, refreshments, and a Dickens character with whom you may not be familiar. (Hint: he isn’t in “A Christmas Carol”!)
There will also be festive treats, and the program’s happening in tandem with Muzeo’s popular “Muzeo Express” model train exhibit. Five thousand square feet of model trains–very little could be more “Christmasy” than that!
Royalty-free image by naturfreund_pics from Pixabay And in case you’re isolating amid these scary COVID times, there will also be a live stream. You and I can participate virtually!
Here’s the link for information–and a warning that Museum of Make Believe’s whimsical special events do have a tendency to sell out!
Now, what exactly is Museum of Make Believe? Technically, it’s an art museum. But it’s unlike any you or I have ever seen.
Founded by creative team Amy and Geoff Mitchell, it’s currently a series of programs, both virtual and onsite, which encourage visitors to explore whimsy and creativity with the help of some very gifted artists. Storytellers, magicians, animators and all types of other creatives share their work, and often conduct workshops where guests can craft something magical.
And currently, Museum of Make Believe is fundraising, with the goal of opening their permanent space and making art accessible to everyone!
“Dickens Christmas Stories” will actually host TWO performances on Sunday, December 5. You’re encouraged to register for their 1 pm program, as the 3 pm show may already be filled with Muzeo members! Here is the link for information; “Dickens Christmas Stories” is happening at Muzeo Cultural Center, 241 South Anaheim Boulevard, near Broadway. Please wear a mask and observe all COVID protocols if you attend onsite. Meanwhile, there will be a live-stream for virtual attendance!
AND, be sure to follow Museum of Make Believe on their social media: Instagram, and Facebook, for more magic! Here’s the link to their blog. And if you’d like to support them, here’s the link, either for Giving Tuesday or thereafter!
Continue reading → - Start the Presses November 1, 2021
by Noella Noelophile®
White outdoor sign over the entrance says “Printing Museum” in black lettering with a blue border Mark your calendar! A fun creative event is coming up, in Carson.
And if, for whatever reason, you can’t experience it in-person, it ‘s also available virtually, right now! Here’s the link to experience it online.
Next Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th (wow, November already!), the International Printing Museum in Carson, will host the 2021 Los Angeles Printers Fair!
Approximately 80 vendors will be on hand, showcasing the best of printing arts, including handmade paper, antiquarian books, and custom posters. (How’s that for a great gift for someone special?)
But visitors will get to do more than simply browse and shop.
Since the International Printing Museum houses the world’s largest collection of antique printing presses, guests can also get some hands-on experience.
Paper marbling (remember those gorgeous inside covers on antique books?), letterpress printing and screen printing T-shirts are all going to be demonstrated–and taught.
Proceeds will support the operation of the International Printing Museum, which is a 501c3 nonprofit. Here’s the link for information.
And if you’re currently isolating, here’s a resource page, courtesy of Los Angeles Printers Fair. (I particularly like the hand-bookbinding “how-to” videos by Stephanie Gibbs–can we say “make something special for Christmas” here?)
During the Printers Fair, you’ll also be able to follow along with the activities, via livestream, at this link.
And you’ll get to explore their content virtually, and support their amazing vendors, right up until November 14th.
Not that I would ever tempt you (seriously, would I do that?), but looking online, my particular favorites include those beautiful handbound hardcover journals and sketchbooks from Jumping Whale Books, the limited-edition sunflower print by C.J. Whitlock, and Art Mina’s humorous, handprinted tea towels, shirts and tote bags.
I also really love what Annika Buxman is doing with her handmade marble paper, created by fair-trade artists in Bangladesh, from her South Pasadena studio, De Milo Design Studio & Letterpress.
And if you’re looking ahead to December, here’s one more date to keep in mind.
On Saturday, December 11th, the International Printing Museum is hosting a “Holiday Kraft Day for Kids”. They’ll offer all kinds of hands-on printing activities with a holiday theme–and I’ll tell you all about it as more information becomes available!
The International Printing Museum, located at 315 West Torrance Boulevard in Carson, hosts the 2021 Los Angeles Printers Fair on Saturday and Sunday, November 6th and 7th, from 10 am to 4 pm. Tickets are available here. Proceeds support the International Printing Museum’s mission of continuing to bring the history of books and printing to life for diverse audiences.
Meanwhile, the livestream link, during Printers Fair hours, will be available here. And be sure to check out the tutorials, venders and experiences virtually, from now through Sunday, November 14th, at the Los Angeles Printers Fair link. Virtual admission is free.
Continue reading → - Beyond “Warm and Fuzzy” October 16, 2021
For most people, the “warm fuzzies” are intangible.
Artisan Kristin Oxnard makes them, not just tangible, but snuggle-able.
Through her small business, Fuzzie Dot, Kristin designs and sews some of the softest, and very possibly the cutest, kids’ blankets on the planet.
Think elephants, unicorns, cats, bears and the list goes on! What’s special about each is that Kristin starts with her own patented design, crafting each blanket from a circle. Then, she’ll add ribbons to make the blanket interactive for her small customers. And these round extra-soft blankets are designed to last a lifetime.
BUT–they’re not just for kids.
Kristin also has designed a line of luxury snuggle-ables for us “big kids”!
Called “Luxie Dots”, these are ultra-soft, fringed throws that evoke images of winter nights by the fire, and crisp mornings warmed by hot tea and cozy covers.
Kristin, who will be exhibiting at the Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair in Pasadena in November and in Burbank in December, also takes custom orders. And she has a lot of new creations–including some ultra-soft non-blanket items!–that you might like to consider for early Christmas shopping! Here she is, as our first featured artisan of Christmas season 2021.
If you’re out and about (remember to be safe, wear your mask and social distance, OK?), be sure to check out Kristin’s work at the Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair, Saturday and Sunday, November 20th and 21st. 10 am to 4 pm in Central Park, Pasadena, 275 South Raymond Avenue (at Del Mar). Or, in the Burbank area, on Saturday and Sunday, December 11th and 12th, from 10 am to 4 pm on San Fernando Boulevard between Magnolia and Olive, in downtown Burbank. Admission to Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair is free.
Continue reading → - Artistry in Green December 13, 2020
(Photograph by Tameka Jacobs, and used with permission.)
Whitney Wade is an artist, an entertainment-industry professional–and an avid gardener.
And she uses all those skills in her new small business, Plant Grow Eat.
Whitney, who just launched Plant Grow Eat, creates garden kits for people who want to grow food on a small scale. These are galvanized containers of specialized soil, complete with seeds and guidance. And she’s one of the exhibitors, right now, in Jackalope Arts’ Virtual Holiday Market!
The “guidance” part is an essential. Whitney loves both gardening and teaching others how to grow their own food. She currently offers both free gardening advice on her blog, welcomes questions and says there’s no such thing as a “black thumb”.
She also does a weekly Instagram series, Weekends in the Garden, and invites you to join her on Saturday mornings!
Whitney talked about her background, shared the story of Plant Grow Eat and offered a mini-lesson on growing your own food.
Jackalope Art Fair’s VIrtual Holiday Market continues from now through Friday, December 18th, showcasing the work of dozens of gifted indie artists! And today, at 11:00 PST, join them for their “Meet the Makers” event on Instagram Live!
Continue reading → - Long-Lasting Stardust December 1, 2020“The magic never really went away,” says author and artist Ellie Lieberman.
She’s talking about her memories of Christmases as a child, and beyond.
But she could just as easily be speaking of her Christmas short story, The Memory Tree, and her handmade creations through her small business, Acorn Tops.
The Memory Tree explores a magical–and poignant–Christmas Eve which a granddaughter and grandmother spend together
. It’s too good a story to ruin with “spoilers”. But think traditions, enchantment and wisdom shared between generations.
Meanwhile, as an artist, Ellie crafts unique Christmas ornaments and gifts. Scented fabric Christmas trees, handcarved ornaments and fairy creations–including fairy doors, scented fairy pillows and enchanting miniature “fairy bottle” designs–are all a part of her creative magic.
Another aspect of that enchantment is Ellie’s ability to immerse a reader in her other written works. Check out her children’s books and young-adult fiction, and her short stories in the anthologies A Horde of Dragons and The Playlist, on Amazon or on her webpage. Or, as a special gift to someone (including you!), consider picking up the Christmas anthology Enchanting Yuletide, in which The Memory Tree first appeared as one of the six published stories.
Follow Ellie on social media:
Facebook
Continue reading →
Twitter
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Instagram - Sharing the Gift of Creativity November 28, 2020
(Photo courtesy of MCreativeJ, and used with permission.)
Modern fiber artist Melissa Galbraith combines her passion for stitchery with her love for the colors and patterns of nature.
And she’d like to invite you to use your creativity with her.
Melissa specializes in “botanical fiber art”. Her designs are based on wildflowers, cacti, and anything else of beauty which she sees in her travels. While she creates whimsical decor and wearables, she goes beyond whipping up something fun and offering it for sale.
Instead, through her small business, MCreativeJ, Melissa offers beginner-friendly embroidery kits, workshops, AND a “Pattern Club“, where participants receive a monthly digital pattern.
Melissa teaches several monthly online workshops. Her upcoming ones include a “Cactus Snow Globe” embroidery workshop, as well as several in which participants can craft ornaments featuring cacti in Christmas sweaters!
(Photograph courtesy of MCreativeJ, and used with permission.)
“It doesn’t have to be perfect,” Melissa tells beginners who aren’t sure about their abilities with stitchery. On her blog, she shares tutorials and her favorite embroidery stitches, along with encouragement to just have fun creating something of your own.
Melissa shared the story of her small business and her interest in needlecraft, as well as a preview of the kits she’s exhibiting in Jackalope Art Fair’s Virtual Holiday Market, from now through Friday, December 18th.
Melissa Galbraith, of MCreativeJ, is one of more than 100 hand-curated artists exhibiting as Jackalope Art Fair offers their “Virtual Holiday Market” from now through Friday, December 18th. Be sure to check them out!
Continue reading → - Honoring Christmas–Present and Future November 20, 2020
“Christmas isn’t cancelled,” says the Dickens Christmas Fair‘s website.And indeed, it is not.
For Christmas, 2020, the Dickens Fair has reimagined its festivities as “Dickens Fair At Home”, which we can enjoy, remotely, for free!
Kevin Patterson, Executive Producer of Red Barn Productions, stars in this edition of Noelophile® for a look at the creative process behind “Dickens Fair At Home”, and a preview of what you’ll get to experience.
Starting tomorrow, November 21st, right through Christmas Eve, “Dickens Fair At Home” brings some of the sights, sounds and even the tastes of the Dickens Fair into our homes! (They even plan to give some instructions in roasting chestnuts–and according to their website, an “open fire” isn’t needed!)
Their special content will include “Mr. Dickens” doing special readings of “A Christmas Carol”, some of the Dickens Fair’s talented artists giving workshops on at-home crafts, and even downloadable sheet music and recipes!Here’s the link to the full schedule, which will include new content every weekend, from now through Christmas Eve.
Meanwhile, are you ready for some fantastic Christmas shopping? A number of the talented artists who normally exhibit onsite at the Dickens Fair are showcasing their work at this link!
“Dickens Fair At Home” is a free series, happening virtually, weekends starting Saturday, November 21st through Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24th. Here’s the link for the festivities.
Continue reading →
And don’t miss Father Christmas, on December 24th, as he reads “The Night Before Christmas”–OR the Dickens Christmas Fair when it returns to the Cow Palace in 2021! - Virtual Enchantment November 12, 2020
(Photo courtesy of George Simian, and used with permission of San Pedro City Ballet.)
Enchantment is what The Nutcracker is all about.
And with the ingenuity of San Pedro City Ballet, we’ll get to experience a performance, virtually, for Christmas season 2020.
On Saturday, December 12th, 5:00 pm Pacific time, they’ll stream a special presentation from their website.
On this episode of Noelophile®, San Pedro City Ballet Co-Founder and Artistic Director Cindy Bradley shares the story of her unique company and their upcoming presentation.
In lieu of a live performance, the show will be a video of the 2019 Nutcracker performance at San Pedro’s Warner Grand Theatre. Co-Founder and Artistic Director Cindy Bradley says the show will be enhanced with special artist interviews, featuring some of the dancers who performed in San Pedro City Ballet’s first-ever Nutcracker performances.
(Photo courtesy of George Simian, and used with permission of San Pedro City Ballet.)
Founded in 1994, San Pedro City Ballet is all about serving the community and sharing the joy of dance in their mission of creating a pre-professional company, comprised of members of the diverse population of the Los Angeles Harbor area. They do an educational outreach to schools and youth organizations, with performance workshops throughout the Los Angeles area.
In addition, their annual Nutcracker performances draw on volunteer members of San Pedro High School, giving students the opportunity to experience the behind-the-scenes stagecraft work involved in the production.
Does their name sound familiar? American Ballet Theatre superstar Misty Copeland was first introduced to dance in a San Pedro City Ballet workshop!
While Cindy admits her dancers are disappointed not to be able to perform live (who wouldn’t be?), she and her company are making the best of our current situation.
(Photo courtesy of George Simian, and used with permission of San Pedro City Ballet.)
And this isn’t their first innovation since COVID-19 hit. Since spring, San Pedro City Ballet has been coming up with ways to continue their company’s mission.
Among them: construction of a brand-new outdoor studio, and “hybrid” classes–some Zoom, and some outdoors!
Plan on marking your calendar for this special Christmas gift from San Pedro Ballet, one month from today.
And if you’re in a position to support them with a small donation–or even just send them an encouraging email after the show!–they’d love to hear from you, Donations can be made at http://www.sanpedrocityballet.org/support-dance.
San Pedro City Ballet streams their special virtual presentation of “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, December 12th at 5 pm on their website.
Continue reading → - Creativity, Spelled With a “K” October 1, 2020
(Photo courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild.)
Kards By Angie proprietor Angela Jackson says she never planned to own a small business.
Her handmade greeting card line started off, eleven years ago, as creative giftwrapping. Then, Angie began crafting her own Christmas greetings to family and friends.
People began taking notice–and asking to buy her creations.
Today, Angie designs all kinds of special-occasion cards. And she uses a variety of media: stamping, ribbon art, drawing, painting and more.
She also takes custom orders. But for her, this is about so much more than just running a small business.
Think “touching hearts and connecting people”. Angie loves what she’s doing and finds joy in creating the perfect design for her customers.
At a time when the world needs all the warmth and beauty it can get, her cards stand out for the love, talent and time she invests in her work.
This year, like many artists, Angie has seen cancellations of most of the events at which she normally sells her work. Which means that she has a full line of new Christmas cards available–and she’s taking orders. (You may want to ask about her handcrafted holly cards. They are gorgeous!)
And if you have an upcoming special event, or just need something special for someone important in your life, she can design whatever you have in mind
Angie talked about her work and the start of her handmade small business, and offered an audio “preview” of some of her Christmas and all-occasion designs.
Continue reading → - An “Artful” Summer June 15, 2020
by Noella Noelophile®
Remember what it was like, when we were kids and drew pictures? And a parent, relative or teacher praised our creativity and encouraged us to continue?
San Pedro Art Association remembers.
This summer, they’re continuing their “All Grades Harbor Wide Student Art Competition”–virtually. And the deadline is coming up (this Saturday, June 20th!), so now is the time to have your young students enter.
Summer, 2020, marks the ninth time SPAA will host this popular event. Due to the pandemic, this year’s competition will be presented virtually.
(Royalty-free mage by Mimzy from Pixabay)
Unlike other years, they will not be hosting a reception at CRAFTED Handmade Marketplace, in San Pedro, nor mounting an exhibition there.
But what they will do, is exhibit selected student work online. All Elementary, High School and Middle School students in the Harbor area (here are the rules and information) are eligible to enter.
To enter, simply take a photo of the student’s 2D artwork, and text or email it to SPAA, along with the student’s name, grade and school.
AND–something new has been added!
This year, SPAA’s “All Grades Harbor Wide Student Art Competition” includes a video category.
Students may send short video clips, by text or email. As with the other entries, be sure to include the student’s name, grade and school.
Winners in the 2D art and video categories will receive cash prizes for First, Second and Third Place, as well as Honorable Mention. Meanwhile, students whose work is accepted into the online exhibition will receive art supplies, as well as a ribbon and Student Membership in SPAA through high school.
(Royalty-free image by Paolo Ghedini from Pixabay.)
Chosen participants will be asked to complete and submit release forms. Selected art may be reproduced for a great cause: to promote SPAA, and for sale to help raise funds for future Student Art Competitions!
Meanwhile, nonprofit San Pedro Art Association continues in its mission: to support and assist artists. For more than 80 years, they’ve offered art classes, professional assistance, community events and marketing opportunities for the San Pedro creative community. They’ll be offering a juried members’ art show, later this summer, according to their website. In the future, they may also be offering art classes again, according to a recent email.
Happy and Healthy Summer–stay safe, and stay creative!
Continue reading → - Their “Time” Has Come March 7, 2020
by Noella Noelophile
“Oh, time, hurry up and go by!”
I remember a co-worker saying that–decades ago.
The setting: a concession in summertime, in the late 1970s. The morning had seemed to drag. Lunchtime, a break and a lazy afternoon lay ahead. And we staffers were anxiously waiting, till that clock would finally pull up its hands to noon.
Well, needless to say, it did–and then some. Till that remark, that summer and that job are all pleasant memories.
Today, I’m always amazed at how quickly time does go by. Gone are the days when summertime stretched out endlessly. Or a school year seemed to last forever. Or Christmas and Halloween felt as if they were separated by a vast chasm of days, weeks and a season.
The longer we live, the quicker time seems to go by. This weekend we “spring forward” for Daylight Saving Time.
It seems like we just “fell back”, a few minutes ago.
And now, nonprofit San Pedro Art Association is looking ahead to summer, 2020. They’re about to create many more pleasant memories, and may even launch some careers.
They’ve now issued a call for student artists, for their summertime “Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition and Exhibition”!
From June 7th through September 5th, 2020, SPAA will be exhibiting the work of student artists at CRAFTED, in San Pedro. A panel of art professionals will select submissions for students, between the ages of four and eighteen, in the harbor area. Eligible students will be attending schools in San Pedro,Wilmington, Harbor City, Harbor Gateway South,Harbor Gateway North, Gardena, East Torrance, East Lomita, East Rancho Palos Verdes and South Carson.
Four cash prizes will go to the top winners. In addition, one participant will receive the People’s Choice award.
There is no fee to enter. Exhibiting artists, last year, all received a 120-piece art set and membership in SPAA through high school.
SPAA “Harbor Wide Student Art Exhibit” exhibitors, 2014.
Students are asked to submit their entries at their schools in the qualifying areas no later than Thursday, April 23rd. For more information, here is the link to SPAA’a website, where you’ll find official rules and a letter to parents, teachers and principals.
Last year, nearly 900 students submitted their work. Of these, SPAA emails, they chose 104 student exhibitors. And this year, San Pedro Art Association is hoping to see even more young artists sharing their talent.
But what if you’re–ahem, 25, like me, and high school wasn’t exactly yesterday?
Then, SPAA would love to have you help by spreading the word. If you happen to be an education professional in the harbor area, they have a flyer which you can post in your classroom.
And be sure you save the date, on Sunday, June 7th! You’re invited to SPAA’s free opening-day reception, that afternoon at CRAFTED. In the past, the reception has started at 2pm–but I’ll update you as soon as I know for certain!
Continue reading → - SPAA Gives Back November 29, 2019
by Noella Noelophile®
(Flyer created by Bill Boisselle-Schalaba, and used with permission.)
Remember Christmas morning when you couldn’t wait to see what Santa left?
Now’s your chance to create that kind of magic for another child–or more than one.
San Pedro Art Association is well-versed in creating magic.
Every summer, they host the Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition. As mentioned in a previous post, every participant gets a prize for taking part. And everyone gets their work professionally framed and exhibited at CRAFTED.
In addition, nonprofit San Pedro Art Association has been serving artists–of all ages–with classes, shows and special events, since 1936.
Now, for Christmas, SPAA is in the spirit.
From now up to Christmas week, they’ll be hosting their Toy Drive, to benefit Harbor Interfaith Services, in San Pedro. Year-round, Harbor Interfaith works to empower the homeless and working poor to achieve self-sufficiency.
Would you like to help SPAA support Harbor Interfaith in their mission, by dropping off a new, unwrapped toy at their Farmers’ Market booth today? (SPAA’s special Farmer’s Market holiday booth will be open every Friday, 9 am through 2 pm, from now through the end of December.). Or at their gallery at CRAFTED, open every Friday through Sunday?
According to their flyer, the “elves” at SPAA are going to be busy. They also have a Christmas party and a Holiday Craft Fair in the works–and I’ll give you more information on both of these as I know more!
Meanwhile, have a fun and safe Thanksgiving weekend, and a start to a very Merry Christmas!
Continue reading → - Bittersweet Lavender June 13, 2019
by Noella Noelophile®
(Poster by Tom Hardcastle, copyright 2019, and used with permission.)
Ojai Valley Lavender Festival is coming to an end. Unless…
After sixteen years, OVLF hosts its final Lavender Festival in Ojai’s Libbey Park on Saturday, June 29th. They’ll have more than 100 vendors, live music, speakers, games and prizes. Admission and parking are free, and there’s a free shuttle service.
And lavender will be in evidence in every type of use–from lemonade to ice cream to hand soaps.
That’s because the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival is always held on the final Saturday in June, to coincide with Ojai’s peak lavender bloom. Think “gorgeous” and go several steps beyond that, and you’ll have a pretty clear mental picture.
Now think “talented”–and go several steps beyond that.
So, why does 2019 mark the final Lavender Festival?
Certainly, nonprofit Ojai Valley Lavender Festival, Inc., a/k/a OVLF, has never lost its passion for the production and uses of lavender. Their 2019 festival will feature a wide array of lavender honey, aromatherapy and beauty products (their soap is a favorite!), decadent desserts and libations with lavender.
Nor have they lost their interest in showcasing the gifts of artisans and musicians, and the passion of local community groups for their causes.
Lavender-inspired products this year will include jewelry, clothing, pottery, candles, and the list goes on!
Meanwhile, the festival will host an all-day lineup of fantastic musicians, starting right off at 10 am with Richard Kaller on Libbey Park’s front patio. At the music gazebo, you’ll get to hear the Old-Time Fiddlers, Lynn Mullins and Coyote Creek and Cindy Kalmenson and the Lucky Ducks.
(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)
But–the amazing job OVLF has been doing for sixteen years has been the result of an all-volunteer team. Led by Executive Director Neil Friedrichsen, President Cindy Mullins and Vice President Joy Brown, that team is now ready to retire.
“OVLF’s small, hard-working team has come to the difficult decision to dissolve the non-
profit, end the festivals, and focus individual energies elsewhere,” the group explained in a press release.
(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)
“Ideally, OVLF had hoped new members would come forward to join the organization and lead it into the future. But, alas, that has not been the case. So this year OVLF will host its final Ojai Valley Lavender Festival on June 29th.”
BUT…but.
Do you know anyone who’d be interested in assuming the “lavender mantel”? As in, a group or organization who would like to put their hearts and souls into keeping this fantastic event going?
If so, please have them contact Cindy Mullins at ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org to learn more.
(Photograph courtesy of Diana Hatcher, and used with permission.)
Now, upfront–this will be a LOT of work. All the setup, coordination, planning and cleanup, that go along with hosting an annual event of this magnitude (OVLF tells us the festival draws more than 5,000 visitors to Ojai annually!) would be a labor of love. And no matter how much team members love the Festival, a hard truth is that even the most talented people have only two hands.
But if you have a committed small group who love crafts, community and artists, this could be an opportunity for you–and for them.
Meanwhile, if you have time on Saturday, June 29th, how about running by Ojai and showing them some “lavender love” as they host their final festival?
OVLF, we’re keeping a good thought for you! Thank you for a fantastic fifteen years of crafts, celebration and lavender. Hope your 16th Lavender Festival is a great one–and that someone steps up to keep it going.
The sixteenth annual Ojai Valley Lavender Festival happens Saturday, June 29th, from 10 am to 5 pm in Libbey Park, 210 South Signal Street, south of East Ojai Avenue. Admission and parking are free, and a free shuttle is available.
Continue reading → - SPAA Celebrates the Season December 2, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of San Pedro Art Association, and used with permission.)
You’re walking down the street, when something festive catches your eye.
In a parking lot are tables, covered with white cloths and decorated with garlands, greenery and Christmas ornaments.
As you get closer, you see a table on which sterling-silver handcrafted necklaces dangle from gilded branches. Handmade rag dolls of varying sizes smile from a second table. The third is covered with pencil drawings that evoke street scenes, animals and people in just a few deft lines.
Further along, a woman has set up an easel. Deftly, she mixes colors. As her brush moves, a seascape comes to life.
This moment of reverie has been brought to you by San Pedro Art Association. But you don’t have to limit it to your imagination.
Today, Sunday, December 2, SPAA hosts a “Holiday Craft Fair and Harbor Interfaith Toy Drive”, in the B of A parking lot on Pacific Avenue, near 10th Street in San Pedro.
Here’s your chance to find unique handcrafted gifts for all the special people on your Christmas list. As well as to help make a child’s Christmas magical, by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to donate to Harbor Interfaith Services.
As mentioned in earlier posts, San Pedro Art Association has been serving artists, and the arts, since 1936. Every summer, they host a “Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition” for the local schools. (Every entrant receives art supplies, there are prizes for the top winners, and the students’ work is professionally framed and displayed at CRAFTED!) They also offer classes and monthly “First Thursday” free guided art walks.
And here’s an early Christmas gift: SPAA is now planning to offer craft fairs on a regular basis! Starting in 2019, they’ll host three a year, according to SPAA Secretary Bill Boisselle-Schalaba! (They held their first one this past spring, and it was great!)
San Pedro Art Association’s “Holiday Craft Fair and Harbor Interfaith Toy Drive” happens Sunday, December 2, from 10 am to 5 pm in the B of A parking lot at 951 South Pacific Avenue (near 10th Street) in San Pedro. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - Muir Beach’s Tradition By the Sea December 1, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
(Painting ©2018 by Tom Soltesz, and used with permission.)
Getting to Christmas shop by the beach is something special.
And the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair has been proving that for nearly 50 years.
This weekend, they’re just about to prove it again.
This year’s Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair happens this Saturday and Sunday, December 1 and 2. And it’s a Christmastime tradition in the quaint town of Muir Beach, which is just over six miles from Mill Valley, in Northern California.
(Photo ©2018, Kasey Corbit, and used with permission.)
Started in the 1970s in by a community group that became the Muir Beach Quilters, the fair started in the best way: as a big community Christmas party! And according to their event website, this was an event created with three goals in mind: to raise money to build a community center, to give local artisans a place to showcase their creations, once annually…
…and to throw a big community Christmas party, of course!
(Photograph ©2018, Debra Allen, and used with permission.)
Local residents kept the tradition alive once the Muir Beach Quilters discontinued it, in 2013. And the Holiday Arts Fair’s 2018 edition will feature nearly 40 artisans from throughout the Bay Area. You’ll get to see hand-made pottery, wreaths, miniature wooden robots, ornaments crafted from both glass and wood, and gifts from the garden–and that’s just a partial selection.
(Photo ©2018 by Janet Tumpich Moore, and used with permission.)
At the Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair, organizations that support the local community are given a free table. Look for the MBVFA, selling their logo clothing and hats, for kids and us “big kids”, to benefit the Fire Department.
Plus, the Muir Beach Quilters are going to display their best! The Holiday Arts Fair’s press release says they’ll have “quilts, dolls and scarves”. But I’m going to guess that sentence doesn’t come close to doing them justice!
(Photo ©2018, Julie Smith, and used with permission.)
In addition, the Fair gives next generation of crafters and artisans the opportunity to sell their work, at the Junior Artisans/Kids table.
Also, new this year, visitors to the Fair will get to experience glassblowing.
Want more? OK. During the Holiday Arts Fair, Muir Beach’s Cafe Q offers free coffee and tea for all attendees. They also have a balcony overlooking the ocean, for you to relax and get a good look at all the cool treasures you found!
(Photo ©MB Garden Club, and used with permission.)
And here’s a link to the Artist Gallery, if you’d like to look a little further beforehand. Many of the previous exhibiting artists will be back this year. (And I’m wishing I could run my hands over that gorgeous inlaid woodwork!)
The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair runs from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday, December 1, and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday, December 2, at The Muir Beach Community Center, 19 Seascape Drive, southwest of Shoreline Highway. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - Together at Christmastime November 29, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
C’mon. You know you want to sing along. Who wouldn’t?
But most Christmas concerts don’t give you that opportunity, when they perform Handel’s Messiah’s “Hallelujah Chorus”.
Which is one more reason, besides fantastic music and a great message, why you might like to attend the West Coast Singers’ Christmas concert this weekend.
The West Coast Singers are the LGBTQ+ Chorus of Los Angeles.. Their 2018 concert is themed, “When We’re Together: Songs for the Holiday”, and they’ll be giving three performances, this Saturday, December 1 and Sunday, December 2.
And the program focuses on what brings us together during the Christmas season: joy, peace, family, pride and love.
(Poster courtesy of West Coast Singers, and used with permission.)
The West Coast Singers, emails soprano Michelle Sekine, are the third-oldest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, mixed-voice chorus in the nation.
Michelle was kind enough to share the group’s mission statement, which reads, “The chorus consists of lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual and heterosexual men and women who enjoy singing and the camaraderie of a community chorus. The chorus strives to achieve musical excellence and entertain audiences, as well as promote understanding, healing and cooperation within the greater Los Angeles community. “
While I haven’t had the pleasure of hearing the West Coast Singers perform live (yet), the YouTube video of them singing our National Anthem will give you chills! They make it look easy–even though that’s one of the most difficult songs to sing, due to its wide range. (And they sing it a cappella!) Then, there are the videos featuring GloZell Green–showcasing the group’s sense of humor and spirit of fun.
So–here’s your chance to let them get you into the holiday spirit.
At 3;00 Saturday afternoon, December 1, the West Coast Singers’ first performance is a family-oriented, shorter matinee version of their annual Christmastime concert, at Barnsdall Gallery Theatre in Los Angeles. Children ages five and under are admitted free. Expect to hear lots of holiday favorites–and to get a chance to show your festive spirit, during the “Hallelujah Chorus” singalong.
Then, that evening, there’s a full concert at eight. At 3:00 on Sunday afternoon, December 2, they’ll perform a full matinee. And in addition to the concert, they’ll be offering snacks, a raffle, and hand-crafted cocktails for over-21 attendees.
“Our chorus has been around for many years, and this concert is one of our annual signature events,” emails Chorus President Sanie Andres. Sanie also shared that the West Coast Singers celebrated their 35th anniversary in October!
Happy Anniversary, West Coast Singers! Hope you have a fantastic Christmas season.
The West Coast Singers will give three performances of their Winter Concert, “When We’re Together: Songs for the Holiday”, this Saturday and Sunday, December 1 and 2 at the Barnsdall Gallery Theatre, 4800 Hollywood Boulevard, west of North Vermont Avenue. Here’s the link for more information.
Continue reading → - Torrance’s Renaissance Woman November 24, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
Designer Paula Bennett, founder of Paula Crochet Fashion
What can’t designer/Paula Crochet Fashion founder Paula Bennett do?
As founder of nonprofit Yes4Arts, she shares her love of knitting, crochet and needle arts with the next generation. But her patterns are NOT our grandmothers’ afghans and tea cozies.
Instead, she comes up with–and teaches her young students to make–slinky prom dresses, modern wedding gowns (including black ones!) and cool halter outfits.
She also mentors high-school-age designers as they begin their careers.
(Stained-glass butterfly ©2018 by Paula Bennett. Image used with permission.)
In addition to her needlework, Paula designs stained-glass ornaments and windows.
And just in time for Christmas shopping, she’s going to be at the Downtown Torrance Antique Street Fair tomorrow.
(Stained-glass parrot ©2018 by Paula Bennett. Image used with permission.)
In addition to exhibiting her stained-glass designs, she’ll be teaching free crochet and knitting lessons!
Paula says she’ll be on hand from 9 am to 2 pm tomorrow, but she’s available to give lessons “anytime”. In return for sharing her expertise and materials (her designs won awards in her native Belize!), all she asks is that you share what she teaches you. Once you can knit or crochet something amazing (and she is a fantastic teacher, so that doesn’t take long!), plan on teaching someone else who’d like to learn, to knit or crochet.
(Stained-glass bell ornament ©2018 by Paula Bennett. Image used with permission.)
Also, while Paula doesn’t require this, do you happen to have leftover yarn, knitting needles you aren’t using or crochet hooks that are just sitting around? If you have these to donate, she certainly wouldn’t mind having them, to give to her next groups of students!
Look for Paula Bennett, of Paula Crochet, at the Torrance Antique Street Faire from 9 am to 2 pm on Sunday, November 25th. Torrance Antique Street Faire is located at 1317 Sartori Avenue, south of Torrance Boulevard.
Continue reading → - An Artist’s Magic November 23, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
Talented artist Liz Stark can make just about anything in wood. Then she enhances it by carving, drawing and painting.
Furniture, clocks, jewelry boxes–you name it. And to her jewelry boxes, she adds tigers, sea creatures, or any other design her customers request, in a custom order. .
The results are going to wow you. Detailed, lifelike animals seem to look you right in the eye. Flowers look like they’re blooming on the first day of spring.
And Liz never seems to be lacking in inspiration. During a visit at an early October crafts fair, she mentioned that there aren’t enough hours in the day, to create everything she has in mind to make!
Like to see Liz’s work firsthand, or order a special handcrafted gift from her for Christmas? She’s an active member of San Pedro Art Association, has a website in the works–and she’ll be on hand for a craft fair in Wilmington in late November. Details to follow!
Liz will be exhibiting at the Wilmington Senior Center Craft Show, 1371 Eubank Avenue, just south of PCH, this Friday and Saturday, November 30 and December 1. Hours are 9-4 both days, and admission is free.
Continue reading → - Talent Bright as a… November 12, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
“Button art” doesn’t come close to describing Carol Newell’s work.
Carol, proprietor of Button Art By Carol, reminds me a lot more of a mosaic artist.Using beads, buttons and wood backgrounds, she can create just about anything–and she takes custom orders.
Seasonally, she has a harvest pumpkin design, and several Christmas ones. Year-round, though, her rainbow rooster is eye-catching, and she’s created sea creatures, butterflies, birds…Carol talked about the origins of her small business, Button Art By Carol. She also talked about her creative process–and even shared the link to her YouTube channel, where she offers a tutorial on making one of her most popular pieces.
Continue reading → - A Favorite Way to Christmas Shop November 1, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
Tomorrow evening, and all day Saturday, Irvine is hosting a unique Christmas shopping experience.Don’t expect a crowded mall, lines in the food court or clerks asking, “Are you a member of our (insert the name here) Special Group?”
But what you can expect: hand-blown glass, folk crafts, jewelry and music. More than 100 gifted artists will be on hand. And, based on previous experience, the food will be excellent.
All this and a duck pond, too.
Where? The Irvine Fine Arts Center, as they host their 36th Annual Holiday Faire.
(Image courtesy of Freda Nelson Evans, and used with permission.)
Festivities start at 5 pm on Friday, and run till 9 pm. Then, on Saturday, they’re open from 9 am to 4 pm.
We attended Irvine Fine Arts Center’s summer “Studio Arts Festival” last year, and fell in love with the setting and the variety and high quality of work on exhibit. There were both indoor and outdoor exhibits of just about every creative medium imaginable: pottery, dichroic glass, silver, gold, mahogany and cherry wood… (Yes, I came home with a bunch of new favorites!)
And on the subject of wood, here are two artists we’re looking forward to seeing again.
(Photograph courtesy of Freda Nelson Evans, and used with permission.)
Self-taught wood artist J. Michael Evans crafts some luminous bowls, warm-looking pens and unique plates which he offers through his small business, Ozarks Wood-N-Stuff. I especially like his satiny “Supele” square lidded bowl, which you can see in his “Gallery Slideshow”. And his wife, fellow artist Freda Nelson Evans, emails that he’ll have a number of new items available for the Holiday Faire.
Freda, meanwhile, is an accomplished actress. Both she and Michael perform in the “Shepherd of the Hills” annual outdoor drama in Branson, Missouri. In addition, Freda portrays Mrs. Santa Claus at one of the local Missouri shopping areas, as well as a hotel.
(Here is a link to my 2017 interview with Michael, about his work!)
Now, unlike many of the other artists’ events and festivals mentioned on this site, the Irvine Holiday Faire does have an admission charge of $2.00 per attendee. That’s if you’re a “big kid”, as we are. Ages twelve and under get free admission, and parking is free.
And I can’t think of a better way to support our local artists while picking up some gifts that are going to wow everybody at Christmastime!
Irvine Fine Arts Center’s 36th Annual Holiday Faire happens Friday evening, November 2, from 5 pm to 9 pm, and Saturday, November 3, from 9 am to 4 pm, at the Irvine Fine Arts Center, 14321 Yale Avenue, near Walnut.
Continue reading → - Festivities to Savor October 27, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
Remember warm brownies from Grandma’s oven? Or homemade cookies on a rainy Saturday?Tamiza’s Treats proprietor Tamiza Teja certainly does. Only, for her, those memories are just a starting point.
Tamiza, who is both an artisan and a chef, comes up with unique twists on favorite cookies, candies, cakes and more. She also concocts new recipes for both sweet and savory treats.
And–today, she’d like to invite you to a party.
October represents a milestone for her. Not only has she been in business for five years as of 2018–her new store, in Torrance, celebrates its one-year anniversary on October 27th!
From 10 am to 4 pm, today, October 27th, Tamiza celebrates her “5 Year/1 Year Anniversary Party”. She first set up shop at CRAFTED, in San Pedro, in 2013.
Tamiza’s Treats, located at 3525 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite Q, is welcoming, unique–and beautiful. The walls are a light mint green, offsetting all the tempting things on display with lavender ribbons.
And while delectable desserts are the main product, Tamiza also stocks unique, food-themed gift items, offers classes in her space and has a “free library” for customers!
Her creativity extends to her work as an artisan.
Take a look at the foodie-themed jewelry she designed!
Obviously, she’s having fun.
This one’s inspired by lobster, macaroni and cheese!
In addition, Tamiza’s Treats gives back to the community. When you buy some of the foodie -themed gift items, like these cute new Christmas ornaments, a portion of the proceeds get donated to a nonprofit. Among the causes she supports: Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, the Scleroderma Foundation and Queen’s Best, which is a corgi rescue.
Congratulations to Tamiza, on her “5/1 Anniversary”! And if you stop by today to say “hi”, I personally recommend the tangerine-date cookies.
Tamiza’s Treats Artisan Treats and Foodie-Themed Gift Boutique celebrates its “5/1 Anniversary” today from 10 am to 4 pm! Come see what’s delicious (there are a lot of answers to that question!) at 3525 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite Q, in Torrance. Tamiza’s Treats is located on PCH and Madison, right near Kinecta.
Continue reading → - Spreading the Magic May 4, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
This Saturday, May 5, is a magical birthday celebration.
Expect to see real butterflies, amazing crafts, gorgeous flowers and lots of talented artists, if you come to Lomita to celebrate Pipe & Thimble Bookstore’s one-year anniversary!
Pipe & Thimble is unique, as Southern California’s first indie bookstore to stock all-indie-authors’ works!And It’s been an amazing year, courtesy of proprietors Barbara and Ellie Lieberman, and honorary Pipe & Thimble partner Robin Nieto.
As Robin says, though, this is so much more than a bookstore. The combined talents of Barb, Ellie, Robin and the independent authors they serve has made Pipe&Thimble a magical space, with an exciting creative vibration from the minute visitors approach.
Ellie (pictured above) excels at crafting miniature fairy gardens and fairy houses/doors that will enchant you, through her small business, Acorn Tops.Her writing is likely to captivate you, as well. Her published works include two novels, a number of anthology selections AND a new book just about to be published. (Got time for only one book? I confess, her Society’s Foundlings is a favorite, for its stark beauty and a warmth that shines through in places where you wouldn’t expect it.)
What can’t Barbara Lieberman do? Her areas of expertise include needlefelting, painting, crafting, general creative work, gardening, AND tempting her readers to read “just one more chapter” in her novels and nonfiction.(And a very Happy Mother’s Day to this extremely gifted “artrepreneur”/author! Did I mention she’s also Ellie’s mom?)
Every time I see author/artist Robin Nieto, she’s come up with another fantastic handmade gift item or new book. She’s both an artist and author of two series: Tales From Mema’s Garden and The Adventures of Duke & Daisy, with a new Duke & Daisy book forthcoming!And…she’s a butterfly expert, with live butterflies hatching outside her home, which you can see when you visit Pipe & Thimble! This is every bit as cool as it sounds.
Robin, Barb and Ellie have steered Pipe & Thimble through an incredible inaugural year.Poetry readings, board game nights, special events and book signings have all been on their calendar. So have live-music performances and themed book-related series like “Dog Days of Summer”, to show young “clients” the magic of reading.
Now, they’re set to embark on another year of magic. On the calendar for Year Two of Pipe & Thimble: meetings of their brand-new Book Club, “Scary Campfire Stories” for Halloween, and authors’ events like “Marketing Your Book on Facebook”.
And they’re waiting to welcome you, as they celebrate a year of supporting indie authors and artists, and look towards a future of reading, creativity and community!Pipe & Thimble’s “1-Year Anniversary Celebration” runs from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, Saturday, May 5th at 24830 Narbonne Avenue, in the City of Lomita. Admission is free and everyone’s welcome. Come prepared to fall in love with some great new authors and artists!
Continue reading → - TCG Set to Welcome Spring March 11, 2018
by Noella Noelophile®
We all deserve a reward for “springing forward” this morning. And here it is.Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild is counting down to their 19th Annual “Spring Arts and Crafts Faire”, next Saturday!
They’re going to have three shopping areas full of all-handmade creations from talented indie artisans, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center! Starting at 10:00 next Saturday, March 17th, we crafts maniacs will have the chance to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by offering a little “green” to our favorite creatives, in return for their made-with-love-and-individuality creations.
If you’re looking for cute additions to Easter baskets (wow, Easter is three weeks away at this writing!), you’re almost certain to find them here. Or, you might find something special for Mom, for Mother’s Day. Or perhaps a wedding or graduation gift, since June seems to sneak up on us faster every year.Ceramics, wind chimes, photography, candles and needle arts are some of our favorites from past Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild faires. I have yet to leave one of these empty-handed–and you probably won’t either.
While I don’t yet have the listing of participating artisans, I can tell you about a few previous favorites.
Needle artist Jackie Demyers, of Crafts By Jacqui, can do just about anything fabric- or textile-related. She’s currently working on Black Panther pillowcases, according to her Facebook page!Knitting, crochet, embroidery and sewing are areas in which Jackie excels. Her fabric purses are Easter-morning bright and springy, and she creates beautiful quilts, clothing and baby blankets. (She also teaches classes!)
Multitalented Evangeline Duran Fuentes is both a published author and an artisan! While she’s currently at work on a brand-new book, Finding Erin, according to her author’s Facebook page, she also creates some gorgeous woven-bead bracelets and earrings. Check out her Alluring By Design small-business Facebook page. But, be warned, you will be severely tempted to buy yourself a springtime present!
And hooray, according to her Facebook page, Krystina Kyle of Fun with Pretend is going to be exhibiting! Gifted Krystina has won multiple awards for her fabric dolls, and her Facebook page promises some vintage country chic Easter bunnies she’s handcrafted!(The “hooray” is because, previously, Krystina’s work serving her fellow artists as President of nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild precluded her exhibiting in the fall show. There are, after all, only so many hours in the day. But it’ll be great to see her back.)
Here’s a link to our previous interview, in which she gives some background on her small business. .
One of my favorite things about nonprofit Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild? Other than the fact that they’ve been serving independent artists since 1970?Their Faires give back to the community.
Proceeds go towards their Meghan Newman Memorial Scholarship Program, which scholarships for graduating Torrance high school seniors in the areas of arts and crafts.
Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild is currently accepting scholarship applications, with a deadline of March 30, 2018. Current students in the areas of painting, ceramics, woodworking, sewing and much more are encouraged to apply. Here’s the link for more information.
See you at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, next Saturday, March 17th–as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Spring and some of our favorite creative artisans–present and future!
Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild’s 19th annual Spring Arts and Crafts Faire happens Saturday, March 17th, from 10 am to 4 pm at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, at Madrona and Torrance Boulevard. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - Special for “Small Business Saturday” November 25, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
“Small Business Saturday” is here! And here are two new, 2017-minted small businesses, in the Southern California area, that you might like to consider supporting.
We’ll start this with a “Congratulations!” to Tamiza Teja, of Tamiza’s Treats. She opened her brand-new storefront, in Torrance, just before Halloween.To say it’s a beautiful, welcoming space would be an understatement.
Tamiza, according to her website, has a degree in Dietetics and Food Administration from Cal State Long Beach. And she’s been offering cookies, cakes, craft breads and homemade candy (not to mention popcorn!) through her small artisan bakery at a number of special events over the last few years.
The new storefront is an exciting “next step” in her entrepreneurial journey.While we love her fudge and chocolate-chip cookies made with applesauce, a yummmmm of a new discovery, for me, were her tangerine-raisin cookies. These have a sweet and tangy flavor, a little reminiscent of the orange jellies my grandmother used to keep for visiting grandkids–but better and healthier.
But Tamiza’s new store is about a lot more than just selling delicious artisanal foods–or even about cool crafts. (We didn’t know, until our recent visit, that those are another area in which she excels!)Tamiza is both showcasing the work of fellow artists, with a limited number of kitchen-related crafts on display, and giving back to the community.
A portion of the proceeds on some of the items get donated to charity–as is the case with these vintage teacups and teapots…
…and these Christmas ornaments.And, she even has a “cookbook lending library”!
Tamiza designs gift baskets, and is planning on teaching classes, in the new year, in her brand-new “Audrey Hepburn room”, adjacent to the store’s main area.
Tamiza’s Treats Artisan Treats and Gift Boutique, at 3525 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite Q, in Torrance, will be open Saturday, November 25th from 10 am to 4 pm.
Meanwhile, I have the pleasure of wishing a very Happy “First Small Business Saturday as Bookstore Owners” to Barbara and Ellie Lieberman! They opened their magical bookstore/art gallery, Pipe & Thimble Publishing and Bookstore, in early May.Ever since, they’ve been coming up with fun ideas.
Board game nights, author signings, story time for the little ones and seed swaps have been just a few of the events Barb and Ellie have been hosting. As they operate Southern California’s first all-independent-authors’-titles bookstore, these two immensely talented authors/artrepreneurs are working on the principle of treating authors, and artists, right.
Recently, they did a fantastic “Winter Wonderland Art Gallery” with an array of eclectic creations by local talented artisans.And for “Small Business Saturday”, you can expect to see more of the same kind of talent.
Pipe and Thimble will be displaying works by artists including Robin Kinnaman-Nieto (she’s also the co-author of the Tales from Mema’s Garden series!), whose needlecrafted dogs are seriously cute! The basset is a favorite, but if you have a specific breed in mind, she takes custom orders.
In addition, Jena Baxter is likely to have more of her fantastic scented soaps…Talented chef Meg Tessensohn will be on hand with Pampered Chef cookware. And Barb and Ellie will be showcasing their talents as artists, as well as authors, with a look into their respective magical worlds.Barb’s most recent creations include “Thumbles”, very cute gnomelike creatures inspired by the Nordic Christmas tomten, and some adorable needlefelted snowmen.Meanwhile, Ellie excels at creating fairy worlds, doors and fairy houses that will leave you enchanted!
But then–so will just about everything else about Pipe & Thimble, including the garden you’ll see upon arriving! Everything’s blooming and growing–a metaphor for what’s inside the store. If you love books, indie authors and talented crafters, I can only wish you good luck on leaving without at least six new treasures.I haven’t managed to, yet–and I don’t expect today to be any different.
Pipe & Thimble Publishing and Bookstore, at 24830 Narbonne Avenue in the City of Lomita, celebrates its first “Small Business Saturday” today, Saturday, November 25, 2017, from 11 am to 4 pm.
Continue reading → - A New Small Business Celebrates November 13, 2017by Noella Noelophile®
Hot chocolate, artists, a magical space–and a week to go, until Thanksgiving.
Can the Southern California almost-Christmas season possibly get better than that?
Well–maybe it can. Pipe & Thimble Publishing & Bookstore haven’t announced all the artists for their first “Winter Wonderland Art Gallery”–yet!
(Image courtesy of Pipe & Thimble Publishing and Bookstore.)
So far, what I can tell you is that this mixed-media show promises not to disappoint. Pipe & Thimble, celebrating their first Christmas season in business since their opening in May of this year, will be showcasing works by a variety of local artists.
Here are just a few of those. (And if you haven’t been already, here’s one look at the inside of Pipe & Thimble, Southern California’s first bookstore to carry all independent authors!)
Carol Newell, of “Button Art by Carol”, may be making an understatement. Her creations go far beyond the projects I remember as “button art”. If you think “talented mosaic artist” and ask to see her seahorse piece, you’re more likely to be on the right track.Now, do you happen to be the kind of cat person who will stop and look around at the sound of an unexpected “meow”? And who will admit to anticipating petting soft fur and hearing purrs? (You have plenty of company…)
Then, you’ll want to look for brand-new small business exhibitor Sage Kitties. This is such a new one that they don’t yet have a website. However, Pipe & Thimble co-owner Barbara Lieberman gave me a heads-up that they’ll be there. The artist in question, she says, draws some incredible cats. I can’t wait to see these, and our resident felines say they completely approve!
And really–what can’t talented “artrepreneurs” Ellie Lieberman, Jessica Silagy, Robin Nieto and Barbara Lieberman do?
Pipe & Thimble co-owner Ellie Lieberman excels at crafting miniatures and illustrating books. (Her young-adult fiction and short stories are pretty amazing, too.)Jessica Silagy is an inspired graphic artist who can take any concept, from vintage pin-up art to steampunk, and create something whimsical, beautiful and fun. Be sure to look for her “goddess” prints and pinup calendars in support of pit-bull rescues!
Robin Nieto is a mixed-media artist and the co-author (with Elaine MacInnes) of the Tales From Mema’s Garden children’s series, which teaches today’s tech-absorbed kids to take a wondering look at the world around them.
(And if you’d like a sense of that wonder, ask Robin, when you meet her, if she’s seen any butterflies lately! She just might show you…well, there’s no need for me to ruin the surprise.)
And Barbara Lieberman, in addition to painting, needlefelting, teaching, and creating incredible miniatures and soft sculpture, writes novels that need a warning label on them!I would suggest something like, “CAUTION: Do not assume you can read ONE chapter before bedtime,” as this has been my mistake with her books, many times. Her historic novel “To Reap a Whirlwind” and her fantasy, “To Miss the Stars” were just two that had me saying, “Really, I’m turning off the light after just ONE more chapter…” (I think you know how that turned out!)
In addition, Barb has written a unique, honest and humorous nonfiction account of her struggle with chronic illness, The Unchained Spirit. This book should be required reading, not just for anyone dealing with an illness, but for anyone who’s ever had a bad day, not quite dared to reach for a dream, or loved someone who was in need of an extra hug.
All this and hot chocolate too? Absolutely–and you are cordially invited to come down to Pipe & Thimble on Friday evening, November 17th, to support these local artistsand authors–plus the new ones that haven’t yet been announced!
Pipe & Thimble Publishing and Bookstore hosts its first “Winter Wonderland Art Gallery” from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm on Friday, November 17th, at 24830 Narbonne Avenue, near 250th Street, in the city of Lomita. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - The Magic of Her Artistry November 11, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
The scent of patchouli. A whiff of orange blossom. A dash of Christmas peppermint, ginger or pine.
Those are just some of the fragrances Jena Baxter includes, as she handcrafts her detergent-free Mystic Cove Soaps.
They’re also just one aspect of her creative gifts.
(Graphic courtesy of Jena Baxter and Raven Williams, and ©2017, Raven Williams
Jena is an award-winning author of fantasy novels and short stories. (She won third place in the “Favorite Fairytale Author” category at FantasyCon 2016!) And she has a brand-new Christmas story, Seasons, in the new Christmas anthology Enchanting Yuletide, which comes out on November 15th!
But if you can’t wait to fall under her magical spell, you don’t have to.
Jena’s earlier novels, and the two anthologies in which her short stories are published, are available on her website. And you might just like to grab a cup of coffee and settle in for a great read: she’s publishing the first draft of her new novel, The Covens of Misty Haven, on her blog! (A new chapter appears on the fifth of every month.)
And–Jena handcrafts her soaps based on the themes of her novels! We talked in mid-June, and she was just planning some Christmasy scented soaps to go with her new short story.
(The cake of soap above is her “Alexis’ Orange Groves of Spring”, from The Carriage. I’m almost sorry to use it, it’s so pretty. I’ve seen cameos that aren’t this well-defined!)
Jena talked about her background, the process of soapmaking, and, of course, her brand-new Christmas journey into an “alternate world” of magic.
Continue reading → - A “Handcrafted” Invitation November 4, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
“Oh, you’re so talented!”
You’re highly likely to hear that, this Christmas season, if you attend Seaside Studios San Pedro’s “Ladies’ Ornament Party”, in just under two more weeks.
But first, you’re almost certain to have a lot of fun.
Gayle Fleury, of Aussie Girl Designs, will be hosting this three-hour workshop, which begins at 10 am. You’re invited to come join the group, sip wine, enjoy snacks and make something incredible for your tree or home.
While I don’t yet have an update on the type of media Gayle is using, she is a talented designer whose specialty is crafting amazing jewelry. I’ll make an educated guess that she’ll show you how to create some sparkly treasures.
While the Facebook page says”snacks will be provided, it also mentions that food contributions are always welcome. So if you’d like to bring a favorite finger food or specialty, you certainly can.
Unlike many of the other activities I like to promote on Noelophile®, this workshop does have a cost: $40 per person.
Expect the morning to be well worth it.
Aussie Girl Designs’ “Ladies Ornament Party” begins at 10 am, Saturday, November 18th at Seaside Studios San Pedro, and runs till 1 pm. Seaside Studios San Pedro is located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard (near O’Farrell), across from the Fanfare Fountains and cruise ship terminal. Cost for the workshop is $40 per person.
Continue reading → - “Craftsmanship” is His Watchword October 25, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
(Photograph courtesy of Freda Nelson Evans, and used with permission.)
Artist J. Michael Evans uses his woodworking talents to creates unique fine art.
His lidded bowls seem to glow. An unusual design, his “winged bowl”, has the bowl seeming to grow out of a wooden platform. He uses the natural attributes of a piece of wood–including striations–to highlight some of his pieces.
But, what turned me into a customer of his small business, Ozarks Wood-N-Stuff, were his hand-turned wooden pens. (I’m loving the feel of my smooth cherry wood “luxury” pen for journal writing!)
Michael, who is self-taught, also creates custom baby rattles, Christmas ornaments, tops, and some refrigerator magnets that would make fantastic secret-Santa gifts.
Like to see his work onsite? Michael has some of his natural bowls on display at Chemers Gallery, in Tustin, California. And if you happen to be in Branson, Missouri, check out his booth at Branson Mill Craft Village.
And if you’re in the California area and won’t get over to Tustin, you might like to mark your calendar for February, 2018. He also exhibits at Anaheim Art Crawl, happening in February, May and August–and at the Hillcrest Fine Art Festival, at Hillcrest Congregational Church in La Habra Heights, the last weekend, in February!
Another fun fact? Michael is a musician, and his wife Freda is an actress. They divide their time between Southern California and Branson, Missouri, where Michael and Freda have both performed in the “Shepherd of the Hills” traditional play. (During the Christmas season, Freda also performs as “Mrs. Santa Claus” at an outdoor shopping area and local hotel!)
Michael talked about his woodworking, some of the techniques he uses and his path as an artist.
Continue reading → - Fullerton Set to “Glitter” October 14, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of Glitterfest, and used with permission.)
Today is it.
Today, Sunday, October 15th, is Glitterfest 2017’s Fall edition of their juried, handmade mixed-media art show, in a new location: Fullerton!
We’ve only had the opportunity to attend one Glitterfest show, so far. But this weekend, we’re hoping to change that.
Glitterfest is unique, among the shows we’ve seen, due to combining vintage home decor with some very cool handcrafted creations. And every vintage item, rather than being a fragile, don’t-breathe-around-me-or-I’ll-shatter antique, is a “fun” thing we can easily see bringing home as a new treasure.
And Glitterfest founders (and sisters) Sheryl Simpson and Dianne White have a talent for combining old and new, and making them work together. Spread among the vintage items with a lot of imagination and creativity, you’ll discover a lot of fantastic handcrafted jewelry, clothing and decor for Halloween, Christmas and even Valentine’s Day, courtesy of the talented exhibiting artists..
When we attended before, we fell in love with Gabrielle Acevedo’s Gothic bead art, a/k/a Beads of Darkness. (Who knew woven-bead necklaces and purses could have such a delightfully spine-tingling Halloween twist?) We also loved the wax-faced pixies and flocked vintage mini-Christmas trees on display (we remember those!).
And this year, we suspect we’re going to love Susan Arnott’s work even more. She’s a teddy-bear artist, who creates adorable “bear-necessity” items. Her webpage also displays a handcrafted bunny that looks suspiciously like the Velveteen Rabbit of our childhood days. (She has limited editions of some childhood favorites, but better order early–she may easily sell out by Christmas!)
Unlike most art shows we’ve attended, Glitterfest does have an admission fee. They also seem to have a devoted following: the morning we went, a line of enthusiastic women were waiting outside for the doors to open.
This year, we’re especially looking forward to seeing the very cute decoupage snowman we spotted on Glitterfest’s Facebook page, “in person”. We also will have an eye out for the snowmen and other Christmas items made of salt-and-pepper shakers (some people are so talented!). And we always like to see Angela Resendiz’s original fabric art from her small business, The Shabby French Home. (You guessed it–there’s nothing “shabby” about her work!)
We also probably won’t be able to resist Bee-Kissed Caramels‘ artisan candy–and neither will you.
Glitterfest’s 2017 autumn mixed-media art show happens Sunday, October 15th, at its new Fullerton location, Spring Field Banquet and Conference Center, 501 North Harbor Drive at West Chapman Avenue. Hours are 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, and admission is $7.00 at the door.
Continue reading → - An Autumn Roundup – Part 1 October 3, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
How in the world did October get here so fast?
With shorter days, turning leaves, displays of pumpkins in the stores and even one store putting out evergreeens (yikes!), it’s time to think of Christmas shopping. But not the crowded-mall type; the kind that’s actually fun.
Of course, I’m talking about indie artisans and getting to meet the people who crafted something special. Here are several events for which you may want to mark your calendar (they’re not that far away!).
Let’s start with what’s new this year.
NEW: Tamiza’s Treats storefront: Grand Opening, October 27th.
Remember the peanut-butter fudge, chocolate-chip cookies and various other “irresistibles” Mom or Grandma used to make?So does professional pastry chef Tamiza Teja.
But the difference is, Mom or Grandma probably didn’t create vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free specialties upon request. Through her artisan bakery, Tamiza’s Treats, Tamiza can provide all of the above. She also creates gift baskets for any occasion.
“Yummmm” tends to be a conservative commentary on her handiwork.
I’ve been buying her chocolate-chip cookies, fudge and popcorn for the past three years or so. (Purely in the interest of investigative research, of course!) Everything she makes has a tendency to disappear, very quicklyNow, Tamiza’s planning “Tamiza’s Treats and Artisan Boutique Grand Opening” at noon on Friday, October 27th–just in time to treat some of your favorite ghosts and goblins! And if you’re a total “foodie” who likes to cook, her new shop will offer food-related and kitchen items, created by high-quality artisans.
Grand opening festivities, Tamiza messaged, will be going on all weekend. And if you’re looking for a gift for a favorite “foodie”, or something special for a party or other celebration, you might like to talk to her sooner, rather than later. (She does take online orders.)
Tamiza’s Treats Artisan Treats & Gift Boutique’s Grand Opening happens Friday, October 27th, from noon to 7 pm,, at 3525 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite Q in the city of Torrance. Admission is free.
And since the weeks before Thanksgiving always seem to book up early, here’s another new event you may want to put on your calendar:
Pipe &Thimble Publishing and Bookstore Winter Wonderland Art Gallery, November 17th.
Southern California’s first all-independent-authors bookstore opened this past May, as we mentioned in an earlier post. Now, Pipe & Thimble proprietors Barb and Ellie Lieberman are about to celebrate their first Christmas season as bookstore/magical creative space owners.
Their “Winter Wonderland Art Gallery” will feature works by local artists and photographers. Just a few they’ve already named:
Jessica Silagy, gifted graphic artist (one of her Christmas cards is still part of our decor; it’s too pretty to send!);Robin Nieto, co-author of Tales From Mema’s Garden; (Ask her if she’s seen any butterflies lately, and she may just show you something breathtaking!);
Suzanne Gibson, of Suzanne’s Studio; (I love her Halloween pumpkin and Santa paintings!);
And, of course, Barb and Ellie, besides being talented authors, excel at creating–well, just about everything.
Here are a few of their “Pipe & Thimble Bears”, which they made prior to their store opening.Couldn’t resist falling in love with this cheery miniature painting Barb did, either. Meanwhile, one of my personal favorites of theirs, for Christmas , is a set of two soft-sculpture fabric trees they crafted, through Barb’s previous handcrafted business “Seeds 2 Inspire”. Originally, Barb and Ellie designed them as sachets, but given a resident feline whose breathing is more important than scented anything, we went with, simply, decorations.
Want to see something enchanting? Ellie creates fairy-world miniatures: doors, houses and just about anything else magical, through her handmade online business, Acorn Tops!(Also, if you love needlecrafting, don’t forget to ask Barb about her needle-felting classes! A recent favorite creation is her monarch butterfly.)
AND–we’re not done yet. More exhibiting artists are in the process of confirming!
Pipe & Thimble Publishing & Bookstore hosts their “Winter Wonderland Art Gallery” on Friday evening, November 17th, from 7:30 to 10 pm at their store location, 24830 Narbonne Avenue, near 250th Street, in the City of Lomita. Admission is free.
Now, how come everything fun seems to happen all at the same time?
November 18th is going to be a “crafty” weekend, with Jackalope Arts making its Pasadena appearance that Saturday and Sunday, November 18th and 19th. (Pictured is show co-founder Sara Diederich. Notice the shopping bag–she couldn’t resist all the cool gift stuff, either!)This is an all-handmade, juried arts and crafts fair which I had the pleasure of exploring, after its Pasadena debut in 2015. They had more than 200 artisans, along with a DIY booth and workshops.
Complete favorites included the hula-hoop workshops with Jennifer Jensen of Eclectic Hoops, the kids’ mask-making workshops by SPACE (South Pasadena Arts Center, and of course, all the cool creative “finds” that had me lugging home a shopping bag full of treasures.
Sara mentioned, in an earlier interview, that she and her co-founders created Jackalope Arts as a way for the community to connect and actually have a conversation with the creative exhibitors, rather than simply buy product. That’s exactly what happened when I attended before: met some fantastic artists whose work is probably going to tempt me again this year!Another plus? Pasadena Jackalope Arts Fair now features glass-fusing demonstrations by Bullseye Glass Resource Center–and if you’d like to sharpen your own artistic skills, Pinot’s Palette Pasadena offers $10 canvas-painting workshops, both days of the Jackalope Fair!
The Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair happens Saturday and Sunday, November 18th and 19th, in Pasadena’s Central Park, 219 South Fair Oaks Avenue at Raymond. Hours are 10 am to 4 pm, both days, and admission is free.
Continue reading → - Summertime Creative June 20, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
Remember how, when we were kids, we couldn’t wait for school to end for the summer? The time dragged, nobody paid attention, and the last day usually ended with a loud cheer and the sound of running feet.
And how, about a week later, “there was nothing to do”?
For the first day of summertime, just in case you’re a parent (or have young nieces, nephews, neighbors or grandkids to keep busy and amused), here are some upcoming activity possibilities.
July 4, 2017 – Long Beach – The Great American 4th of July Kids’ Bike Parade
Got a young writer, speaker, artist and/or athlete who’s bored? Get him or her thinking about making a patriotic costume, decorating a bike and/or writing and practicing a patriotic speech! Long Beach’s community Fourth of July celebration, courtesy of Justin Rudd’s Community Action Team, starts at 8 am with a 4K run and walk along the beach. (There’s a half-mile run/walk for kids.)
At 9:00, there’ll be a kids’ patriotic short speech contest. At 9:50, the kids’ patriotic costume contest happens–and there are prizes!Then, at 10:00, there’s an all-ages (we big kids are welcome, too!) decorated bike parade.
Registration for the kids’ speech contest and costume contest is free, and happens onsite. Here’s the link to register for the run/walk and bike parade.The fourteenth annual “Great American Run/Walk and Bike Parade” starts at 8 am, Tuesday, July 4th, 2017, at 1 Granada Avenue, at East Ocean Boulevard in Long Beach’s Belmont Shore area. Kids ride free in the Bike Parade; there is a nominal charge for participation in the kids’ 1/2-mile run/walk, the 4K walk, and for adults to participate in the Bike Parade. Here’s the link for registration.
(One tip: 4th of July traffic gets heavy, in Long Beach. You may want to bring your small Betsy Rosses and Uncle Sams down to the beach early, in plenty of time to find parking.)
Another possibility, once the last sparkler has sparkled? Art camp!
July 10, 2017 – San Pedro – “Kids’ Art Camp”
Regina Fernandez and Gayle Fleury, proprietors of Seaside Studios San Pedro, are hosting a “Kids’ Art Camp”, starting Monday, July 10th. Designed for kids ages 7 through 12, classes span two weeks in Seaside Studios’ 2,200-square-foot creative space.Classes start at 9:00 am and run till noon, July 10th and 11th, as well as Monday,, July 17th through Thursday, July 20th. Students will work with clay on the 10th, 11th and 17th, and then explore numerous other areas of the arts on the three other dates, according to the event’s Facebook page.
Cost is $150 per child; the Facebook page mentions, “ask us about sibling discounts”. Here’s their link for information.
Meanwhile, an interesting point to note about Seaside Studios: Gayle and Regina host both open-studio sessions, every Saturday morning at 10:00 am, and “Handbuilding Ceramics for Homeschoolers” every other Tuesday morning at 9:30. Their next listed Tuesday session is Tuesday, July 4th.Seaside Studios San Pedro is located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard, Suite 3, between Beacon and O’Farrell Streets, across from the dancing fountains.
What if your bored student is a preteen or teenager? How would you like him or her to learn to create clothing with a professional designer?
Paula Bennett is teaching free summertime classes.
June 30, 2017 AND August 4, 2017 – Torrance – “Crochet and Sewing Class” and “Crochet Art Class”
She teaches “definitely not your grandma’s needlework” fiber-arts classes!This summer, she’s teaching a four-session “Summer Sundress” class, starting Friday, ,June 30th. Class sessions run two hours–5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. And in this particular class, students learn to design and make either a summer sundress or a top, with bead or fabric trim.
Then, if you or your child completely happen to fall in love with this particular maker skill (as Paula says she herself did in her own student days), she’s also teaching a “Crochet Art Class”, starting Friday, August 4th. This class not only includes designing and making a sun dress, but creating your own jewelry: crocheting with wire, beads and fashion yarn.Paula, who began her fashion-design career when a teacher first interested her in crochet, is the founder of nonprofit yes4arts. Her goal, with her nonprofit, is to preserve the needle arts of knitting, crochet and sewing by teaching them to the next generation–for free. So far, she’s hosted two fashion shows, featuring her slinky (and fun!) creations.
In the course of her career, Paula, has designed and created crocheted wedding dresses, evening wear and prom dresses. Her crochet patterns are available through her small business, Paula Crochet.
Unlike her usual classes, Paula’s four-session summer classes have a nominal charge: $60 per student. Here’s the link for more information.
And in addition to these paid classes, Paula also teaches a free crochet class, every Friday from 4:00 to 5:00 pm at Waltheria Park’s Recreational Building, in Torrance. There is a small “price”, though–be willing to teach another student what you’ve learned. (Sounds more than fair to me!)
Designer Paula Bennett, of Paula Crochet, teaches her “Crochet and Sewing Class: Summer Sun Dress” Friday evenings, starting June 30th. Then, her four-session “Crochet Art Class” starts Friday evening, August 4th. Class hours are 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Torrance’s Waltheria Park Recreation Building, 3855 West 242nd Street, east of Ocean Avenue, in Torrance.
Continue reading → - SPAA Honors Student Talent June 4, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
Where does inspiration start…and carry on into a future creative career?
One answer may be happening this afternoon at CRAFTED, courtesy of San Pedro Art Association.
This afternoon, Sunday, June 4th at 2:00, SPAA hosts a special artists’ reception, for their 2017 “Harbor-Wide All Grades Student Art Competition Exhibition”.
In this annual community event, SPAA does what they’ve been doing best since 1936–supports and encourages creative talent. 
Students from grade school, high school and middle school will have their work on display, SPAA will award cash prizes in each age group for First, Second, Third and Honorable Mention.
There’s another category, as well. Attendees get to vote, for the “People’s Choice” award. Here is a past “People’s Choice” award winner; the artist, at the time, was five years old.One of my favorite features of SPAA’s yearly student competition, is the fact that every artist’s talent is honored–not just those whose entries win prizes. Each student receives a certificate of participation, along with a drawing set.
In addition, each student’s work gets framed professionally. Steve Magee, of Steve Magee Framing, does the honors. He carefully selects frames that complement the theme of each entry–and then, the students’ work remains on exhibition at CRAFTED throughout the summer months.Want to be part of an exciting time for some gifted future artists? Check out CRAFTED this afternoon, from 2 to 5, for the ceremony, People’s Choice voting and refreshments.
And who knows, twenty years from now, as you meet a professional exhibiting artist at a gallery, you may hear that person say, “Well, one summer when I was a kid, SPAA had this student art competition…”San Pedro Art Association hosts its 2017 All-Grades Harbor Wide Student Art Competition this afternoon, Sunday, June 4th, from 2:00 to 5:00 at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street, near Miner, Warehouse 10, in San Pedro. Admission is free
Continue reading → - Up and Running–and Signing Books May 13, 2017
“What time is it?” asked author, artist and soon-to-be-bookstore-owner Barbara Lieberman.Pacific Daylight Time was 10:38 a.m., Saturday, May 6th.
And Lomita’s brand-new, all-independent-author bookstore, Pipe and Thimble, was twenty-two minutes away from its Grand Opening.
On hand was Lomita Mayor Pro-Tem Michael G. Savidan, to officiate at the ribbon-cutting.
A few authors and a number of enthusiastic readers stood waiting.
Standing before the door were Barb and Ellie Lieberman, the talented mother-daughter duo who were just about to become active bookstore proprietors. Both Barb and Ellie are published indie authors (between them, they’ve either published, or contributed to, seventeen books–so far) who created Pipe and Thimble on the principle of treating authors, and artists, with respect and kindness.
It’s also based on the idea that reading is magical. And that magic was in full force on Saturday.
Even this hummingbird, who showed up for breakfast just prior to the ribbon-cutting, appeared to sense it.
In his opening remarks, the Mayor Pro-Tem (who’d casually introduced himself as “Mike”) referenced Lomita’s recent blossoming, with the opening of a number of small businesses.
Mike presented Barb and Ellie with a welcoming certificate, from the City of Lomita, congratulating them on their new bookstore.
In a brief speech, Barb thanked the gathered group who had supported both her and Ellie in making their dream a reality.
“I feel like the Velveteen Rabbit,” she said, referencing the beloved children’s classic in which love brings the title character’s dream into existence.Then, Ellie handed Mike the scissors…
SNIP. And applause!
“Come on in!” Barb invited.Music, catered refreshments, hugs, congratulations and lots of visitors finding handcrafted treasures and their next great read, were the next items on the agenda.
And today, things are likely to be even better. 
This morning, starting at 11:00, Pipe and Thimble Publishing and Bookstore celebrates its one-week anniversary with its first book signing and reading! 
Featured authors Mark Fine and Jack Kregas will be onsite until 2 pm. Mark’s The Zebra Affaire made Pipe and Thimble’s top-ten bestseller list during the Grand Opening. (And while I’m not that far into it yet, it’s already fantastic–and is enough to make any reader realize just how much we take for granted, when reading about the circumstances of the poorest of the poor in South Africa during apartheid.)
Haven’t yet had the opportunity to pick up Jack Kregas’ Mystical Glasses, but I’m hoping to rectify that problem in very short order.
The magic continues…Pipe and Thimble Bookstore and Publishing, “the small press with a big heart”, hosts its first book signing and reading by authors Mark Fine and Jack Kregas today, from 11 am to 2 pm. Pipe and Thimble is located at24830 Narbonne Avenue, near 250th Street, in Lomiita.
Continue reading → - Today’s the Day May 6, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
This morning, at 11 am, is it.
The grand opening of Southern California’s first all-independent-author bookstore: Pipe and Thimble Publishing and Bookstore.
Mother-daughter creative team/proprietors Barbara and Ellie Lieberman would love to invite you to join them.Barb says the Mayor will be there to cut the ribbon at 11:00 am sharp. They’ll have music all day, refreshments, courtesy of RSVPea Catering…
…and lots of cool creations from local artists.
Best of all–though–there are a minimum of 250 titles on their shelves, from authors who are either self-published or published through a small press!
You may want to get out your summer calendar and start marking some dates, too. 
Pipe and Thimble has a full schedule of cool events. Just a few of them are their “Victory Garden Party”, happening July 9th as a benefit for San Pedro Packages for Patriots; their natural-health speaker series; and, of course, their very first book signing event, one week from today, featuring Jack Kregas and Mark Fine.Here’s a short feature/interview about their new store. But please don’t take my word for it– come see for yourself if Pipe and Thimble Bookstore is a magical space!Pipe and Thimble Bookstore and Publishing Company celebrates its store’s Grand Opening this morning, Saturday, May 6th, at 11, at 24830 Narbonne Avenue, near 250th Street, in Lomiita. Hope to see you there!
Continue reading → - Two Renaissance Women, One Magical Space May 4, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
Pipe and Thimble Bookstore and Publishing Company is standing ready.
Their grand opening happens this Saturday, May 6th. Lomita Mayor Mark Waronek will be on hand at 11:00 am sharp, for the ribbon cutting that will officially open Southern California’s first all-independent-author bookstore and creative space.
They’ll have live music all day, from a number of talented local musicians. Oh, and of course there’ll be food, courtesy of RSVPea Catering.
And proprietors/authors/”artrepreneurs” Barb and Ellie Lieberman appear to have waved several magic wands since we spoke, in early March.At that time…
… they were painting walls and planning some unconventional shelving for their new store. A Christmas tree, wire racks, a wire boat and various trunks and tables waited to be put to use as displays.Barb and Ellie, a mother-daughter creative team, had envisioned Pipe and Thimble while publishing a number of their own books, as independent authors.“It’s an opportunity for indie authors to see their books on a shelf,” Barb explained. “It’s really hard to be an indie author, and it’s made more difficult by stores not carrying indie authors’ books.”
Consequently, she said, Pipe and Thimble will offer book signings and author events, promoting their authors in a way they normally wouldn’t be promoted. However, they are not a vanity press.Currently, Pipe and Thimble stocks more than 250 titles by independent authors.
“And we’re going to build unique displays that attract you to (our books) by genre, by age group,” Barb said. “Everything is going to be movable, so every time you come, it’s going to be different.”Now, why the name–“Pipe and Thimble”? Barb says it’s in honor of her late parents, who crafted dollhouses and miniatures in the 1970s. The pipe represents her father, the thimble, her mom.“Everything we do at Pipe and Thimble Publishing is inspired by the way my parents would do business, (the way they) would interact with people,” Barb said.
Meanwhile, Ellie was getting into doing the painting. “I’ve…started on a ‘wall of waves’,” she said, explaining that this section would use a boat as a wall shelf unit for books with an ocean or pirate theme.On Friday evening, April 28, visitors had the opportunity to see how all this creativity turned out, in a sneak preview.Several authors were on hand, including Nyasia Maire, author of The Heretic’s Child, a fantasy novel that is all but certain to catch you up in protagonist Emma’s world from Page One…And Mark Fine, author of the historical romance The Zebra Affaire. Mark will be one of two featured authors at Pipe and Thimble’s first book signing event on May 13th.
Several artists whose work is on display had come by to celebrate. (When you come into the store, be sure to look up–or you might miss Jessica Silagy’s graphics! Gifted Jessica is the proprietor of Jessie J Inspirations. And be sure to check for the latest cool metal-chain jewelry Gale Rugnetta, of Angel Art Dreams, has been knitting.No–that’s not a typo. Gale creates striking Viking-knit bracelets, necklaces and earrings!)
The whole community’s invited to Pipe and Thimble’s upcoming events–which include a lecture series and a special July 9th “Victory Garden Party” to benefit San Pedro nonprofit Packages for Patriots.
“We’re like kids in a candy store in here,” Barb commented, mid-evening. “It’s just so much fun.”Now, how in the world did she and Ellie pull all of this together in just seven weeks? Ellie gave some insights into their magic formula.
“Lots of caffeine, sugar and chocolate,” she offered. “And it definitely helps, having a partner like my mom.”Pipe and Thimble Bookstore and Publishng Company has its grand opening on Saturday, May 6th, 11 am at 24830 Narbonne Avenue, near 250th Street, in Lomiita. Come enjoy the music, art, and food and discover some of your new favorite authors!
Continue reading → - Sowing the “Seeds” of Magic March 15, 2017
by Noella Noelophile®
You approach the front door–and suddenly, you’re in another place.
This is a place where peace rose, nasturtium and wild strawberries grow. 
Hummingbirds and butterflies are welcomed and encouraged, as a garden begins sprouting to encourage them. Guests will, in all probability, get to buy seeds or participate in a seed swap, for their own gardens.Inside, independent authors get to see their work on display, in creative, eclectic settings. Crafts are in the design and making process, resources are shared and the community comes together for special events, in an exchange of education and ideas.
Oh–and there’s a handsome “supurrvisor”, waiting to approve current projects.Welcome to small press Pipe & Thimble Publishing’s new bookstore, set to open in Lomita on Saturday, May 6th!
And indie author/”artrepreneur” proprietors Barbara and Ellie Lieberman are joyfully painting, creating and preparing to launch their dream.“Everything we do at Pipe & Thimble Publishing is inspired by the way my parents would do business, and…interact with people,” Barb explained during a visit on Friday.Pipe and Thimble, currently, has accepted thirty-one new independent authors whose books they’ll promote and display. In addition, Barb and Ellie will be exhibiting the works of the nine authors Pipe and Thimble had previously published. (While they’re not accepting new manuscript submissions at present, small press and indie authors can get in touch with them to send their books on consignment.)
“These are books you can’t get anywhere else in person, all indie authors,” Barb said.
” And it’s an opportunity for indie authors to see their books on a shelf, and be promoted in a way that they’re not normally promoted.”
So, where did all of this come from?“It’s really hard to be an indie author,” Barb explained. “We’ve had some experiences that led us to get frustrated.”
Most South Bay bookstores, she said, don’t carry independent authors’ books. For an independent author, getting her books on the shelves is both difficult and expensive.
“As independent authors, we wanted to create a place where that wasn’t the case,” Barb explained. “So we wanted to be the first indie-only bookstore. We display their books, they don’t pay a shelf fee, we invite them to come and have author events…and it’s not an extra fee to do that.”
But don’t expect plain old bookshelves–or standard “bookstore” decor.
Drawing on their backgrounds as creative entrepreneurs, Barb and Ellie are going to have some fun with this one! They’re using a variety of display media that will be as eclectic as the books themselves. .“We’re going to build unique displays that attract you to them by genre, by age group,” Barb said. “Everything is going to be movable, so every time you come it’s gong to be different. Even the art on the walls is going to change.”
(Previously, as proprietor of small business Seeds of Inspiration, Barb designed sachets, pillows and “ouch pouches” to soothe aching muscles! Two personal favorites are her pumpkin-pie spice sachets in the form of very cute fabric pumpkins, and her Christmas trees with a pine scent! Meanwhile, Ellie creates enchanting miniature worlds–fairy doors and beyond–through her small business, Acorn Tops.)
“I’ve already started on a tree for the fairy-tale section,” Ellie said, when asked about painting the store’s interior. “We’re going to make it look like Ravenwood’s garden from The Treasure of Ravenwood and we have a bunch of fairytale and mythology books to go in that section.”
“I’ve also started (painting) a wall of waves…where we have a beautiful boat/shelf unit that is going to go up on the wall there…Our goal is to capture the idea that reading is magical, so when you step foot into the bookstore, you’re going to be transported into a magical world.”In addition, she says, there will be a steampunk section–and no two visits to Pipe and Thimble will be alike for visitors.
Special events, involving the local community, will be an integral part of that world.
Barb and Ellie are inviting local businesses, particularly women-owned ones, to get involved in Pipe and Thimble’s special events. They’ve scheduled a “Natural Health” speaking-event series, on four different weekends in June. Then, their summer plans include a July 9th Victory Garden party, in support of San Pedro-based nonprofit Packages for Patriots. And all throughout July, they’ll be hosting their “Dog Days” series. featuring children’s-book authors.
“We’re hoping to get people from the community to talk about dogs in the community, whether it’s dogs in the military, or dogs and agility…as well as hoping to work with shelters, and maybe even some local rescues,” Ellie said.
If you’re looking for a special handcrafted gift, you may just find it there, as well. Handmade artists, by invitation, will have a few of their creations on display.Also (where did they find the time?!), Barb and Ellie have also been making something new: their “Pipe and Thimble Bears”!
These adorable miniatures have a wide range of themes, from this “Aquarium Bear” to the Scottish one, complete with kilt!And they won’t just make cool stuff–they’ll also be showing others “how-to”.
“We’re going to hold classes,” Barb says. “We’re going to have makers, from around the South Bay, come in and hold classes–and people will see the books.”
So, why the name–“Pipe and Thimble”? Barb says her parents had a miniature-making small business in the 1970s, with which she helped. The pipe represents her father, who smoked cherrywood tobacco. Her mother, who sewed small dollhouse furnishings, is represented by the thimble.
Sounds like they have magic on their side, right from the start.
Pipe and Thimble Publishing’s new store, at 24830 Narbonne Avenue, near 250th Street in Lomita, celebrates its Grand Opening on Saturday, May 6th at 11 am. Meanwhile, check out their website! Barb’s books are available on her website, and on Amazon. So are Ellie’s–and as a mom-and-daughter creative team, both of them should provide readers with disclaimers on their books! I’d suggest something like: WARNING: Don’t expect to put it down, after just one chapter.
You’ll get to meet Barb and Ellie and ask them all about their exciting new bookstore if you come to Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild’s Spring Crafts Faire, this Saturday, March 18th, 10 am to 4 pm at Torrance Cultural Arts Center!
Continue reading → - A Passion for His Craft December 20, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
Warm-looking cherry wood, gleaming copper and the dark-versus-light contrast of curly maple and walnut.
All of the above are at the core of David Ortega’s artistry.
Fine woodworking is David’s medium, and he does all kinds of different projects. Clocks, though, are his main focus through his small business, Heirlooms Etc.David creates his clocks “from the drawing board”, and his designs are frequently inspired by the architecture of Southern California. He’s exhibited his work twice in the San Diego County Fair, once in the Orange County Fair, and at multiple art festivals in Southern California.
When we met at Jackalope Arts’ 2015 Winter Fair, in Pasadena, one of my absolute favorites, among his designs, was his copper-faced clock with a hand-tooled hummingbird on the dial.If you haven’t yet found a special gift for someone important in your life, you might like to take a look at David’s Etsy shop. He also takes custom orders, if you’re looking ahead to 2017 and have some time before a unique gift is needed.
David talked about his background, how his small business, Heirlooms Etc., came into being and some of the inspiration behind his clocks.
Continue reading → - Her Artistry of Fun December 18, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
Jennifer Jensen is both a performance artist, and an artisan.
But both of those terms sound like an understatement, when you look at what she does.
Jennifer, who is the proprietor of Eclectic Hoops, teaches hoop dance, and crafts hula hoops! She makes custom ones, and sells both her own creations and those of fellow hoop artists.
And if you’re stuck on a Christmas gift for a very fun, whimsical friend or family member, she might just have the solution.
At Pasadena’s Jackalope Art Fair, in Spring 2016, Jennifer’s hoops were a big hit–and got everybody moving.(Wouldn’t this be a great way to celebrate New Year’s Day, on the beach with friends, or maybe work off all the Christmas cookies, Halloween candy and turkey in which we’ve been indulging since October?)
Jennifer talked about how she first became interested in hoops, the genesis of her small business, Eclectic Hoops, and the secret to keeping those hoops moving (as well as the care and feeding of a “pet hula hoop”!).
Continue reading → - Happy Small Business Saturday! November 26, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
Yay, it’s here! Today is Small Business Saturday–a chance to support your favorite “artrepreneurs”.
Here are just a couple of California favorites you might like to keep in mind.
Today and tomorrow, Seaside Studios San Pedro hosts their annual Open House and Holiday Boutique!
Gifted ceramics artist Regina Fernandez, of Port Town Pottery, and jewelry designer Gayle Fleury, of Aussie Girl Designs, are studio proprietors. Among their beautiful creations: Regina’s coil Christmas trees (I love the one with small stars especially) and Gayle’s almost-luminous two-sided Paua shell pendant. (Her scarves and handbags are pretty tempting too.)You won’t have any trouble finding Christmas gifts here. And while you’re there, ask Gayle and Regina about their classes and open-studio hours. If you have the time, they’ll teach you to make some seriously cool gifts.Seaside Studios San Pedro’s Annual Holiday Boutique happens Saturday and Sunday, November 26th and 27th. Hours are 2 to 5 pm, both days, and admission’s free. Seaside Studios San Pedro are located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard, near North Beacon Street, in San Pedro. They’re Suite #3, on the second floor, and are located just across from the cruise ship terminal and the dancing fountains.
Meanwhile, I also love San Pedro Art Association. You can see their exhibit at CRAFTED year-round crafts marketplace today, and you’re very likely to wind up with something special. I personally love their handcrafted pens on their Facebook page, but they also excel at handcrafted jewelry, sculpture, some beautiful paintings and breathtaking photography. Celebrating eighty years of encouraging artists, SPAA hosts their yearly “Harbor Wide All Grades Student Art Competition” yearly. In addition, they host “First Thursday ArtWalks”--expect next week’s, December 1, to be especially Christmasy!
More than a dozen San Pedro Art Association members exhibit at CRAFTED year-round crafts marketplace, open 11 am to 7 pm today. Admission and parking are free.
While we’re on the subject, CRAFTED celebrates “Small Business Saturday” with a preview of San Pedro Ballet’s “Nutcracker” at noon today, and they’ll be teaching visitors to make Christmas wreaths today and tomorrow! (Additional workshop events include printmaking and wire wrap earrings, along with a “Wine, Dine and Fine Art Paint Party” on Sunday, November 27th!)
CRAFTED year-round crafts marketplace is located in Warehouse 10, at 112 East 22nd Street at Miner, in San Pedro. Admission and parking are free.
And last but never, ever, least–if you’re in the Bay Area today, you may get to see a lot of unique small businesses, set on a lamplit street in London! The Great Dickens Christmas Fair is happening from now through December 19th at the Cow Palace, in Daly City. Artisans we’ve really loved there in the past have offered handcrafted fiddles, hand-dipped candles, pewter Christmas ornaments and some incredible jewelry. (And I still have the unicorn cooky cutter I bought at my first-ever Dickens Fair, in the 1970s!)
The Dickens Christmas Fair is open today and tomorrow (and weekends through December 19th) at the Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Avenue in Daly City. Hours are 10 am to 7 pm. This year, they’re doing “Select-Day Ticketing”, so be sure to check availability before you go.)
Continue reading → - “Magic and Beauty–Like Life” November 11, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
As Jackalope Art and Craft Fair returns to Pasadena this weekend, here’s a profile of a unique artisan who’ll be exhibiting.
Designer and amateur scientist Sandi Cruze loves everything about our space system. Constellations, planets and other celestial entities fascinate her.
Sandi translates the beauty she sees in the cosmos into exquisite (and unique) hand-crocheted necklaces and earrings–which you’ll get a chance to see this weekend, if you’re in Pasadena! .Sandi and her longtime friend and business partner Carla handcraft String Theory Designs, a line of edgy yet romantic jewelry that does bear a striking resemblance to what we see in the night sky. Crocheting with copper wire and incorporating beads, stones and charms, they’ve created one-of-a-kind pieces that look equally stunning with evening wear or a plain white T-shirt and jeans.
And–they’re just about to exhibit their work in their first show: Jackalope Art Fair, happening this Saturday and Sunday in Pasadena’s Central Park!
Sandi talked about the way she and Carla came to create String Theory Designs, offered a preview of some of the designs you’ll see if you stop by their table at Jackalope Art and Craft Fair, and discussed a new service they’ll shortly be providing to customers (hint: think, “making this my own”).
Jackalope Art and Craft Fair comes to Pasadena’s Central Park this Saturday and Sunday, November 12th and 13th. Show hours both days are from 10 am to 5 pm, and admission is free. Central Park is located on Raymond Avenue near Del Mar, near the Del Mar Gold Line station.
Continue reading → - She Crafts Heirlooms–With Love October 30, 2016Passion and quality are at the core of award-winning fabric artist Krystina Kyle’s work. So are memories of a beloved grandmother.
But a shopping trip–and a sense of disappointment with what she saw–are what ultimately led her to start her small business, Fun With Pretend, through which she designs and sells her handcrafted dolls.
Today, Fun With Pretend is just over a year old. And already, Krystina has racked up some pretty impressive honors.
Mushroom Pixie doll ©2016 by Krystina Kyle. Image used with permission.
Both dolls she submitted to the 2016 L.A. County Fair won ribbons, with her Mushroom Pixie, above, taking both first place and “Best In Show” in the “Help a Child Smile” category.
Mermaid doll© 2016 by Krystina Kyle. Image used with permission.
Meanwhile, her hand-sewn mermaid doll won third place in the “Rag Doll/Toys” division.
In addition to pixies and mermaids, Krystina’s creations cover a wide range. Angels, cats, smiling rag dolls with stand-up pigtails and even a cute elephant doll are all in her repertoire. And she takes custom orders–but, Krystina cautions, she gets booked very quickly. If you have a special gift recipient on your list for Christmas 2016, and you’d like to have Krystina design something unique, be sure to contact her by mid-November, on her Facebook page.
Krystina talked about her background, shared the story of her small business and offered a preview of some of the dolls she’s been crafting for this Christmas season.
Would you like to meet Krystina and see her dolls firsthand? She’ll be exhibiting her work in the Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild’s “47th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Faire”, Saturday and Sunday, November 19th and 20th, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, at Madrona and Torrance Boulevard! Hours are 9 am to 4 pm, both days, and admission is free.
Continue reading →
.> - SPAA Gears Up to Celebrate October 8, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
A milestone anniversary is pretty exciting
It’s that much more so when the the milestone number is…eighty.
And that’s exactly what San Pedro Art Association invites you to celebrate with them, later this month! They’ll be hosting a 1930s art deco-style anniversary party on Friday evening, October 28th, at Ports O’ Call in San Pedro.
Live music, dancing and a silent auction will all be part of the fun, after dinner–and 1930s dress is encouraged! And you’re welcome to come and enjoy the party. Here’s the link for more information.
Since a group of local artists started SPAA in 1936, they’ve hosted all kinds of activities to support and nurture creative talent. Classes, gallery shows, art walks and other special events have all been a part of the creative mix.
One of my personal favorite SPAA activities is their “Harborwide All Grades Student Art Competition”, which starts just as schools are letting out for the summer. Students get to exhibit their work in CRAFTED year-round arts marketplace, in San Pedro, throughout July and August. But this isn’t just a matter of tacking some drawings up on the wall.
My introduction to the competition was a meeting with Steve Magee, of Steve Magee Framing, who is SPAA’s Vice-President. When we talked in 2014, he had just finished professionally framing all the entries–which came as a thrilling surprise to the young artists! (In addition, every exhibiting artist receives a ribbon, as well as art supplies. The winners get additional prizes!)
In addition, on the first Thursday of every month, SPAA hosts “First Thursday Art Walk”, with a monthly guided one-hour tour, live music in assorted venues and open studios where you can watch the artists at work.
Currently, they offer regular classes in photography and jewelry design, according to their website. And if you’re at CRAFTED, look for them onsite. They operate five booths, displaying the work of San Pedro local artists.
Meanwhile, it’s just about party time! Again, here’s the link for information–and Happy Birthday, SPAA! May you enjoy many more decades of supporting artists, of all ages, as they honor their creative gifts.
SPAA celebrates its 80th anniversary, art deco-style, with a plated dinner, a silent auction, raffle and dancing to Patti Orbeck and her Patti-O Band at Ports O’Call Restaurant, 1200 Nagoya Way in San Pedro, Friday evening, October 28th, 2016 from 6:00 to 11:00 pm.
Continue reading → - A “How-To” for Artists September 16, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
You’re an artist–and you love what you do.
Now, could you possibly make a living doing it professionally?
Art studio owner.and financial specialist Christine Nakamura would like to explore that with you.
This Saturday morning, Christine’s hosting the second free workshop in her series, “I Want to Be a Professional Artist…Now What” at Cultural Alliance of Long Beach. And she’s familiar with “the art of business strategies for artists”–from experience.
Christine, herself an artist, established the “Ancient Vine Studio” with her husband, three years ago, to support her own career. Since then, she’s performed just about every not-so-glamorous task connected to marketing art: from knocking on gallery doors to pricing pieces (and yes, she has mopped the floors!).During tomorrow’s two-hour session, which starts at 10 am at CALB’s Pine Avenue location in downtown Long Beach, Christine will cover areas including: your 30-second “elevator pitch” about your work; how to prepare for gallery events; and effective social media marketing.
All this and she’ll feed you, too.
Now, if you’re not familiar with Cultural Alliance of Long Beach, a/k/a CALB, they’re a non-profit organization, started in 2012 with the mission of supporting artists of all ages and from all disciplines. Accordingly, CALB offers monthly themed art exhibits, art walks, performances and artists’ meetings–and they welcome new members and visitors.While this second installment of “I Want to Be a Professional Artist…Now What” is a free two-hour workshop, Christine requests that you RSVP–so she knows how many doughnuts to bring! This event is free to the general public, and artists from all disciplines. You can RSVP to CALBarts@gmail.com.
Sound great? It is–we just have to make sure you read one disclaimer Christine sent.
“In these sessions we will explore the business side of art,” she emails. “I am not a CPA or tax expert. Please always consult with your tax person, and legal entities on taxes, licensing, and insurance questions. ”
Meanwhile, feel free to consult with Christine, tomorrow morning at 10 at CALB, 737 Pine Avenue, on the areas of marketing, organization, and getting followers to your events. She knows all about these.
CALB hosts the second session of the artist workshop, “I Want to Be a Professional Artist…Now What” on Saturday morning, September 17th, from 10 am to noon at 737 Pine Avenue, Suite B, near 7th in downtown Long Beach. Admission is free and artists of all disciplines, as well as the general public, are invited. Please RSVP to CALBarts@gmail.com.
Continue reading → - Another Yes4arts Triumph May 12, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
“How was it?” asked a reporter.
“Awesome!” said the young model.
It was Saturday evening, April 30, 2016. Yes4arts’ second annual Spring Fashion Show benefit had just wrapped up, in the Toyota Meeting Hall of the Torrance Cultural Arts Center.
But “fashion show” barely describes the event.
This was a celebration of creativity, complete with musical performances and indie crafts vendors. It was also a joyful re-imagining of traditional needle arts.
Nonprofit yes4arts, founded by designer Paula Bennett, is an organization dedicated to preserving the arts of crochet, knitting and sewing. In her free classes, Paula teaches all three of these to the next generation. Her only is requirement that her students pass on what they’ve learned, by teaching others.But, yes4arts’ projects aren’t what people traditionally associate with the needle arts.Prom dresses and wedding gowns are among the items Paula designs, as she empowers her students to make their own clothes.
(Paula herself first became interested in crochet as a girl in her native Belize. Her home-economics teacher saw her aptitude and assigned her her first project: a baby sweater. “From there on, I never stopped crocheting,” Paula says. You’ll find some of her original crochet patterns offered through her company, Paula Crochet Fashion Designs.)
And, yes4arts is laying the foundation for some future fashion careers.Yes4arts’ Spring show featured the work of four designers: three student designers and Paula herself.
Paula’s creations opened the show, with a line of crocheted wedding dresses.
In addition to the more traditional white, there was this silver-gray dress, and several black wedding ensembles.
Not to mention some flirty summer outfits.Last year’s premiere yes4arts Spring fashion show had a vibrant, yet plucky, tone. (Emcees Caitlin Catt and Kari Martin had stepped in at the last minute when the 2015 emcee cancelled, and the event was happening in a first-time venue).
This year, the vibrancy remained–but everyone had found their groove. The result was a smooth, polished and very enjoyable night.
Caitlin and Kari appeared to have as much fun with the 2016 show as their audience did.
So did over-the top comedian David Rosenberg, who joined them several times onstage
His commentary on some of the goings-on, particularly the handcrafted sock monkeys for sale, was hilarious!This year’s yes4arts show was punctuated with five eclectic, and very professional, performances. From an R&B singer’s original song to spectacularly-talented girls’ performance company “Titanium”, from Rolling Hills-based Elite Dance Studio, everything onstage was top-notch. There were even belly dancers!
A high-energy highlight was The Dance Lounge dance team’s swing performance. 
They won a 2015 City of Torrance Excellence in Arts award–and the reasons were obvious!But the true stars of the evening were the three new designers showcasing their work. Each had her own distinctive look.
Armani Dolby, of Armani Nejor Designs, creates sleek formal wear that, as she says, “my future self would wear”. 
Armani, who is only fifteen, has been sewing and creating her fashions since she was six. She is both an entrepreneur (since the age of eight!) and an MWDBE Couture Fashion Designer.Asked by Caitlin how she first started sewing, Armani explained that she had begun by making a pincushion–but things grew from there.
“Didn’t you even make a potholder in between (making a pincushion and designing dresses)?” Caitlin wanted to know.“No,” was the gifted young designer’s response.
Equally talented, with a very different style, was new designer Erika Acuna.Erika creates bright spring florals which look comfortable, festive–and slinky.
“I’ve kind of developed (my designs) by finding different clothing styles that I like, and then tweaking them, adding different elements,” Erika said.Erika says she has been sewing since the age of five, and then rediscovered sewing in her twenties. While the yes4arts show was a first-of-its-kind experience for her, she says she’s grown as a designer since beginning to design for it.
“When I started off, (my) designs were a lot simpler,” Erika said. “Then, I made a few more dresses and was (happier) with how I developed (as a designer) within a short period of time…months.”
Meanwhile, designer Cherokee Cooper’s work had a distinctive (and very fun) African flavor. Twenty-six-year-old Cherokee calls her style an “urban Afro look”.
“It’s all about making (a style) your own,” Cherokee said.While this is her debut with yes4arts, Cherokee is looking towards the future. “(I’d love to) see some celebrities wearing my stuff. That would be awesome!” she said.
In the spirit of yes4arts’ goal of sharing the needle arts, Cherokee offered her advice for the next generation of designers, whom she might influence in the future.
“Design what you have passion for….don’t let (anyone else) influence you, and go with your gut,” she said.Some definite pluses, in an already-amazing night, were the independent artists who offered their creations for sale.
Linda Curry, of One of a Kind Machine Quilting, was onsite, with even-more-gorgeous quilts than when we spoke last year. With her was fellow quilt artist Debra Knox. And the ladies were offering some pretty irresistible scented soaps, in addition to their beautiful quilt patterns! (Yes, I can personally recommend their rose-scented glycerine soap. Purely in the interest of journalistic research, of course.)
Eileen Karrigan, of Eileen’s Beaded Jewelry, is also a favorite. I always try to resist buying another pair of earrings from her, but temptation tends to be overwhelming. (Witness the cute flowers with purple crystals that wound up going home with me this time!)
Further on, more “Irresistible” was available. 
Let’s hope Tamiza Teja, of Tamiza’s Treats, remembered to take the calories out of her handcrafted rocky road and caramel popcorn!
And the silent auction was enough to tempt anyone! 
Diane Lain, of all-volunteer Global Gifts UNICEF shop, did the honors. If you didn’t get to see this at the show itself, they’ll be open at CRAFTED this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The evening’s seamless soundtrack was courtesy of DJ Steven Padilla, whose competence and cheerful sounds (again) managed to complement the onstage action, without overwhelming it. (And left a couple of us humming “Cheerleader” by OMI!)
Prior to the show, we’d had a chance to get a quick photo of model manager and coach Daniel Lazareno DeDios. He looked as sharp as his models–and quite justifiably proud of them.Daniel says he’s been teaching photographic and runway modeling since he was fifteen, and began “really getting into it” four years ago. In addition to his work with Spanish television channel Univision, Daniel offers classes in both Downey and Los Angeles. 2016 was his first time working with yes4arts.
In his classes, Daniel teaches runway modeling, self-confidence and posing for the camera.“A lot of the girls that come to me, come with low self-esteem,” he said in an earlier interview. “I always tell the girls to be confident, to not let themselves down, and (I always tell them), sell the product that you have on…just do it and do your best.”
Everyone’s best shone through this second yes4arts benefit show–and will be translated into empowerment for the next generation of makers.
At the end of the evening, Paula thanked her team for their work–and shared an exciting preview. Yes4arts will be hosting a first-time benefit event–its first winter “Holiday Fair”, complete with free crafts classes–in November! We’ll be telling you more as we get more information.
(Who knows, they might even have sock monkeys again. “This is going to scare my niece,” David commented.)Yes4arts is currently in the planning stages for their first winter “Holiday Fair”, on Sunday, November 13th, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center. This will be a free event, and a benefit for yes4arts, with free fiber-arts classes. You’ll find more information here.
Continue reading → - “Yes” 4 Amazing April 9, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
One month remained, and the clock was ticking.
A sunny Saturday afternoon in Torrance was filled with activity, as nonprofit yes4arts prepared for its second annual “Spring Fashion Show”.
Designers were choosing models for their creations. Models were rehearsing their “effortless” walk for the runway–in heels.
“Take your time, enjoy (the walk),” directed model manager Daniel Lazareno De Dios, as he taught the young women three different patterns.In a matter of four weeks, four gifted designers would exhibit their handcrafted work, in a fashion show unlike any other. What people would see, on April 30th, would not only empower artists, but help to keep the fiber arts alive.
Yes4arts hosts its second annual “Spring Fashion Show” fundraiser on Saturday, April 30th in Torrance. Expect the show to change the way you look at knitting, crochet and sewing–quite possibly forever.“The wedding dresses are going to be amazing, because it’s all crochet-made, and knitting,” said designer and Yes4arts founder Paula Bennett. “We have six (wedding dresses): white, and…black.”
Black wedding dresses? That’s a perfect example of the creativity and fun with which Paula, of Paula Crochet Fashions, passes on her expertise in fiber arts to the next generation of makers. Paula teaches free knitting, crochet and sewing classes through yes4arts, which became a nonprofit 501c3 in 2015. In return, all she asks is that her students share what they’ve learned, by teaching these arts to others.Paula says the upcoming 2016 yes4arts Spring show will feature three young student designers’ work, in addition to her own creations.
And while those three designers all had a very different style, they shared one common denominator: excitement about the upcoming show.
“I’ve been designing since I was six years old, but I started my business when I was eight,” said student designer Armani Dolby. “I’m now fifteen, so that’s a long time.”Armani’s business, Armani Nejor Designs, offers elegant and dramatic custom evening and bridal wear.
“I am a couture evening wear designer, and that’s not what a lot of people my age do,” Armani said. “I design for what I see my future self wearing.”
Her future self will look fantastic in this! When we spoke, Armani had just completed this dress, inspired by “The Great Gatsby”. By the time yes4arts’ show happens, Armani will have entered her glamorous creation in a competition in New York.
Meanwhile, designer Erika Acuna was selecting models to wear her colorful spring dresses. “I haven’t done anything like this (show) before,” said Erika. “I wanted to improve my skills, and also…challenge myself.”Erika, who has been sewing since she was five, said she’d started by making doll dresses, but her skills really developed later on. “I started sewing again when I was, like, twenty,” she explained. “I just got kind of obsessed with it, was making costumes.”
We talked about the ways the show had helped Erika’ develop her sewing and design skills. “I never learned, exactly, how the professionals do it,” she said. “I was kind of watching YouTube videos and going online a lot, to figure out how different things are done.”For yes4arts’ upcoming show, Erika’s designs are all dresses–mostly florals. . “Mostly, it’s just very bright, popping colors that caught my eye when I was looking for fabrics.”
While Erika says she’s having fun creating her designs, she isn’t sure yet if she wants to go professional. “I’ll just keep doing (this) and see where it takes me.”
Designer Cherokee Cooper said the Spring fashion show will be her first experience with yes4arts. “I’m really excited,” she said. “I know there’s going to be so much opportunity here, and I’m just willing to learn and continue on to grow….just help and participate.”Cherokee, who wants to get into the fashion business, found yes4arts through a friend. She described her creations as an “urban Afro look”. “Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always been into the African-type theme designs,” she explained. “Now that I’m of age, I’m excited to come up with my own designs and make things my own.”
Among those designs she’s created for the yes4 arts show are “a dress, and a couple of shorts and top outfits, and one little jump suit. A lot of bright colors, so I’m really excited.”
Cherokee talked about the ways in which she’s grown, as an artist, since getting to work with yes4arts. “Because of Paula, I’m here. I’m a little anxious, a little nervous, but I’m just excited to be in the show. This is my first step, putting my work out there for people to see.”
Model manager Daniel Lazareno De Dios echoed that enthusiasm.
“This is actually my first year (volunteering for yes4arts), and I’m really excited to work with (Paula),” he said.
Daniel, who has an extensive background in dance, said he’d taught modeling for the past four years, and currently teaches in both Downey and Los Angeles.
“I’ve been teaching (modeling) since I was fifteen,” he explained. “I teach them how to pose (for) runway, I coach them how to pose on camera.”
His expertise had been evident, earlier that afternoon, as he patiently guided the models through various runway moves,
“My goal is, here, to open doors for myself and for others, and for my models too,” he said. “To promote the models and help them reach their dreams,…and help Paula too,…in anything I can.”
Yes4arts’ 2016 Spring Fashion Show fundraiser happens Saturday, April 30th, 2016 at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Drive at Madrona, in Torrance. Doors open at 5 pm, with showtime at 6:30, and proceeds benefit yes4arts free art classes. Advance ticket prices are $20; here’s the link for information.
Continue reading → - One Sure Sign of Spring March 19, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild, and used with permission.)
Wild violets are blooming. Days are lighter, longer (and we’re not even grumbling about the extra hour of “dark”, when the alarm clock rings!).
But one of the surest signs of spring? Talent is blooming all over the place–with a whole bunch of craft shows coming up, and a local favorite happening today.
The Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild has been around for more than four decades. Not only are they an extremely gifted group of artisans–as a nonprofit, they provide scholarships to local high-school students with an interest in arts and crafts.Their all-handcrafted Spring Arts and Crafts Faire opens at 10 this morning, and I’m severely tempted already. They’ll have more than 60 independent artist/entrepreneurs there, selling all kinds of beautiful one-of-a-kind creations. Gorgeous filigree butterfly brooches by Zorine Lewis, Susie Yarian’s windchimes and Diane O’Neal’s colorful baby quilts (above) are all on my don’t-miss list.
(Graphic courtesy of Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild, and used with permission.)
In addition, on their graphic, they’re featuring Sylvia Guitierrez’s colorful tote bags (top left); Meghan Newman’s cork picture frames (top center); Robin Tabar’s handcrafted “kitty kickers” cat toys; and Terry Madison’s embossed heart pin (lower right).
We’re also looking forward to seeing the new Wicks & Wine creations. These are handcrafted soy candles in upcycled beer and wine bottles! 
And congratulations to some favorite authors! Barbara Austin Lieberman (r) just had a launch party for her latest book, Ben’s Little Acorn, and Evangeline Duran Fuentes (l) now has her new book, A Tumbleweed Christmas, available for sale! They’ll both be onsite today.All this, and music too? Once again, DJ Ozzie will be on the plaza, spinning music to “ooh” and “aah” by!
Can’t wait to discover some new favorites at this one! Happy almost-Spring; hope to see you there.
Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild’s seventeenth annual Spring Arts and Crafts Faire happens Saturday, March 19th, 2016 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, Madrona and Torrance Boulevard. Admission and parking are free.
Continue reading → - Unfettered Creativity January 30, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
(Photograph courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific.)
Dance, music and visual arts will all be a part of this weekend at Long Beach’s Aquarium of the Pacific. And you get to participate, as well as watch.
(Photograph courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific.)
This Saturday and Sunday, January 30th and 31st, Aquarium of the Pacific celebrates the creative gifts of people with disabilities, at its 13th annual Festival of Human Abilities. Artists with and without disabilities will be inviting guests to join them for free thirty- to forty-five minute art workshops, throughout both days.
(Photograph courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific.)
Among the day’s performing artists will be world music guitarist Dat Nguyen, who is blind.
(Photograph courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific.)
In addition to exhibiting his work, artist Tommy Hollenstein will be teaching workshops on wheelchair art.
(Photograph courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific.)
On Sunday, visitors also get to paint a hat with abstract artist Michael Seale, Jr….
(Photograph courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific.)
…and both days, they can learn a song in sign language with the Love in Motion signing choir.
There will also be a service-dog demonstration at 12:30 on Saturday. On Sunday, guests are invited to experience Interactive Art with Dani Bowman and Powerlight Danimation Studios.
(Photograph courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific.)
And, be prepared to show off your best moves! Auti Angel and the Walk and Roll Dance Team invite you to learn wheelchair dance with them.
(Photograph courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific.)
Whether you attend on Saturday or Sunday, be sure to be there by 11 am (or 3 pm if you already have a busy morning planned). That’s when you’ll get to meet Cody Unser, founder of the First Step Foundation, and hear her multimedia presentation on adaptive SCUBA diving! (Cody will become the first person in a wheelchair to be inducted into the Women Divers Hall of Fame™, this spring.)
Diagnosed with transverse myelitis at thirteen, Cody created her nonprofit First Step Foundation, not only to raise awareness of the disease that paralyzed her, but to share her passion for diving with others with disabilities.
And on Sunday morning at 11:45, Long Beach nonprofit Arts & Services for Disabled, Inc. will be receiving the Aquarium’s annual Glenn McIntyre Heritage Award.
Come prepared to celebrate, enjoy–and have fun being creative.
Aquarium of the Pacific’s thirteenth annual Festival of Human Abilities happens Saturday and Sunday, January 30th and 31st, 2016, from 9 am to 5 pm. The Aquarium is located at 100 Aquarium Way, east of Queens Way, in Long Beach.
Continue reading → - A Tempting Valentine’s Event January 23, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
Artists, laughter, love and ice cream. A Valentine’s Day celebration doesn’t get a lot better than that.
Unless, of course, it also involves giving back to the community.
And that’s exactly what’s happening, on Saturday afternoon, February 13th, as Seaside Studios San Pedro produces their second Empty Bowls San Pedro fundraiser! This is a “Valentine’s Ice Cream Social”, and proceeds go to Harbor Interfaith Services.
There’ll be an endless sundae bar, live entertainment and a guest speaker. A silent auction and raffles, where you can bid on, or possibly win, works by local artists, will also be part of the fun.
And, you get to keep the handpainted bowl you choose for your ice cream!
Artist/entrepreneurs Regina Fernandez and Gayle Fleury have been inviting volunteers to “paint a bowl for charity”, for free, since last November. Volunteers and youth groups, such as the Boys’ and Girls’ Club, joined them and used their creative talents, both at San Pedro’s “HeART in the Park” event and at their art studio (which, by the way, celebrates its second anniversary in April!).
The results have been beautiful.When we visited in mid-January, Regina and Gayle had at least a hundred bowls painted, fired and ready. They still had one more Saturday painting session coming up, and a youth group was scheduled to come in that afternoon, as well.
Now, you’re invited to share in the benefits of everyone’s creative work. You can probably expect to have at least a hundred fifty to two hundred of these from which to choose! And while you’re enjoying ice cream and a great afternoon, you’ll also be helping the homeless and working poor.
Tempted? I’ll add: you don’t even have to deal with Saturday-night traffic, to be a part of this. The “Empty Bowls Valentine’s Ice Cream Social” starts at 2:00, that Saturday afternoon.
Empty Bowls’ “Valentine’s Ice Cream Social” fundraiser happens Saturday, February 13th, from 2 to 4 pm at Anderson Senior Center, 828 South Mesa Street, between West 8th and West 9th Streets, in San Pedro. Tickets are $25 each and are available through Seaside Studios’ website, or by calling Regina at (562) 673-7660, or Gayle at (310) 221-2914.
Continue reading → - Time to “Par-tay” January 2, 2016
by Noella Noelophile®
Ready for another party? One with imaginative artists in attendance, where everyone’s using their creativity to make a difference?
Seaside Studios San Pedro is waiting to welcome you this afternoon.
At 2:00 today, they’re hosting their “Happy New Year’s Party” at their studio. They’re having an art sale, with open studio hours, and they invite you to eat, drink and hang out with them. And–you get to paint too!
This will be the second year Seaside Studios San Pedro has done their community outreach, “Empty Bowls San Pedro“. A fundraiser for Harbor Interfaith Services, “Empty Bowls” has volunteers paint ceramic bowls, which Seaside Studios “artspreneurs” Regina Fernandez and Gayle Fleury then fire in their kilns. You get to paint your bowl for free.
Even better, if you’d like to keep your finished masterpiece (and attend the special event for which it’s being made!), you can. For a donation of $25, you can fill your bowl with ice cream and have fun at Empty Bowls San Pedro’s “Ice Cream Social” fundraiser, scheduled for Valentine’s weekend, February 13th! Regina and Gayle will give you the details.And–early warning, about their art sale.
Regina, proprietor of Port Town Pottery, is a gifted ceramic artist. 
Gayle, who owns Aussie Girl Designs, is a very talented jewelry designer. You may find yourself coming home with exactly the Christmas gift you wanted–the moment you saw it.Seaside Studios San Pedro’s “Happy New Year’s Party” happens this afternoon, Saturday, January 2, 2016 from 2:00 to 5:00. Seaside Studios San Pedro are located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard, Suite 3, are located between Beacon and O’Farrell Streets, across from the dancing fountains.
Can’t make it this afternoon, but would like to paint a bowl for free–and maybe get some more information on Empty Bowls San Pedro? Seaside Studios San Pedro will also host studio hours with free bowl painting on Saturday, January 9, and Saturday, January 16th, 2015, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. Ask about Empty Bowls’ “Valentine Fundraiser Finale” Ice Cream Social, happening Saturday, February 13th, 2016!
Continue reading → - Her Heritage of Creativity November 12, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Gale Rugnetta is an expert at Scandinavian knitting.
But we’re not talking about patterned Christmas sweaters.
Gale creates Viking knit jewelry by hand-weaving wires! This is a craft that dates back to approximately the eighth century, according to her small-business website, Angel Art Dreams.
As an artist of both Norwegian and Danish descent, Gale enjoys designing these pieces using her ancestors’ wire-weaving technique and some traditional Viking symbols. Her jewelry can include semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystals, gemstones–or simply shine on its own, in her woven-chain rings, necklaces and earrings.
Gale talked about her background and how she discovered her unique artistic medium, and offered a preview of the Angel Art Dreams jewelry she’s creating for Christmas season 2015.
Would you like to see Gale’s work firsthand–and ask her more about Viking knitting techniques? She’ll be exhibiting her jewelry at Handmade in South Bay’s third annual Holiday Boutique, Saturday, December 5, at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles! That’s located in Warehouse 10, 112 East 22nd Street at Miner, in San Pedro. Hours are 11 am to 6 pm, and admission is free.
Continue reading → - A Teddy Bear Might Be Meaner November 7, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of Imelda Suriato, and used with permission)
Have you ever had the experience of someone stereotyping you–without knowing anything about you?
Artist/entrepreneur Jessica Johnson says that happens all the time, to dogs like her dog “Brodie”.
(Photo courtesy of Jessica Johnson, and used with permission.)
This Christmas season, Brodie and Jessica are participating in animal-advocacy nonprofit I’m Not a Monster, Inc.’s 2015 Monster Holiday Drive. They’ll be collecting toys, blankets and treats for homeless pets, with a particular focus on misunderstood dog breeds.
Year-round, I’m Not a Monster, Inc is dedicated to dispelling myths about these dogs, while promoting shelter pet adoption and networking animals in need.
Jessica says last year’s Monster Holiday Drive raised $422,621 worth of donations, to benefit more than 130 animal shelters and rescues. This year, of course, they’re hoping to do even better!
(Graphic courtesy of Imelda Suriato, and used with permission.)
As a drive representative, or “Monster Elf”, this year, Brodie is helping organizations including Carson Animal Shelter, The Lovejoy Foundation, and It’s the Pits Dog Rescue. Here’s a link to his particular “wish list”, and if you’d like to help, you can drop off these items at the following Southern California locations, during business hours:
- Pets Plus Rolling Hills Plaza – 2539 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505
- Global Pet Food Outlet Express: 401 Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
- Country Hills Animal Clinic: 2919 Rolling Hills Rd, Torrance, CA 90505
- John Simich Construction, Inc.: 1400 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, CA 90731
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Wildside Unlimited:1919 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Jessica says she’s currently firming up the dates she’ll be delivering donated items to local pet shelters, and we’ll update that here as soon as those dates are definite.
Jessica, of course, is a gifted graphic artist, and the owner of Jessie J Inspirations. 2015 marks the first Christmas season she and Brodie will be part of the I’m Not a Monster family, as well as Jessica’s first year volunteering with nonprofit Pinups for Pit Bulls. The latter is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit, started in 2005. Jessica explained in an email that founder Deirdre “Little Darling” Franklin created the organization with the goal of educating the public about the misconceptions about the pit bull-type dog.” Deirdre was tired of finding that so-called rescues and shelters were euthanizing healthy, friendly, and adoptable animals due to their alleged “breed”,” Jessica explained in her email. “So she utilized her background in modeling and education in fine arts to create a calendar like no other–eye-catching pinup girls and their pups, paying close attention to detail and era appropriate style along the way.”
Pinups for Pitbulls also fights against breed-discriminatory laws and breed-specific legislation. A part of their mission is to restore the reputation of the pit bull-type dog–which, Jessica says, is that of America’s companion animal, war hero, and family member.
Jessie J Inspirations features a pinup line–with a portion of the proceeds going to Pinups for Pitbulls. But, had anyone told Jessica she’d become an advocate for these dogs, a few years ago, she might have disagreed.“I didn’t care for bully type breeds (in my growing-up years),” she emails. “We had a neighbor that had a pit bull type dog (that) was a mess…Looking back, it was the owners that…left him outside (untrained and with no interaction). Then, when I was about 23, I met Joni!”
(Photo courtesy of Jessica Johnson, and used with permission.)
Joni, Jessica says, was all about unconditional love, and a complete joy to be around. Joni changed Jessica’s perspective so radically that she began working to educate others on breed misconceptions. And five and a half years ago, Jessica had no qualms about becoming Brodie’s “mom”.
“When I first encountered Brodie, I felt awful for him,” Jessica says. “He was in a state of terror…my first 24 hours with him were nerve-wracking to say the least.” (Brodie clearly had been abused and injured before Jessica met him, and he became very ill that evening. Jessica stayed up, nursing him through the night. Here’s the link to his full story.)
So—trick question. As you look at his “Monster Elf” picture–what breed is Brodie?
The first answer most people would give, isn’t the correct one.
Jessica explains that the only actual pit bull “breed” is the American Pit Bull Terrier. “In reality, ‘pit bull’ is just a loose term to encompass the bully breeds,” Jessica emailed. Those breeds include the bulldog, Boston bull terrier and American Staffordshire terrier.And there’s no shortage of misconceptions about the bully breeds.
Jessica references the American Temperament Test Society’s 2013 study—which shows a Chihuahua is statistically far more likely to bite than the American Pit Bull Terrier. (So is a Golden Retriever, for that matter.)
There’s also a wonderful Huffington Post article by Bikers Against Breed Specific Legislation President Chris White. In it, White explodes a number of myths about the mixed breeds, to which people generically refer as “pit bulls”. Most notably—White says this type of dog’s jaw does NOT “lock”, as commonly believed. (How could it eat or drink, if that were true?)
Some facts not widely known about these “bully” (meaning bulldog-mix, not bullying!) dogs? A number of bull terriers and mixed breeds served as regimental mascots during the Civil War and Spanish-American Wars. Some of the “bully” breeds were effective at catching rats, on nineteenth-century farms, thus slowing the spread of bubonic plague. And more recently, The “Little Rascals” TV series of the late 1950s to early 1960s wouldn’t have been the same without lovable and loyal “Petey”–an American pit bull terrier.
Oh—and Brodie is a six-year-old, tricolor mixed-breed.
Know a sweet and lovable bull terrier or bulldog-mix pup? Please consider donating to the 2015 “Monster Holiday Drive” for shelter pets in his or her honor!
Continue reading → - Covering the World With Love October 29, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Artist/entrepreneur Linda Curry‘s creations could make you believe she’s been quilting all her life.
But the real story of her creative journey is much more magical than that.
Linda, who is the owner of One of a Kind Machine Quilting, has been sewing her breathtaking quilts, wall panels and gift items for eight years. In addition to taking custom orders, she currently has all kinds of quilted Christmas items available in her shop, located in Booth #204 at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, in San Pedro.Besides selling her work, Linda teaches monthly quilting classes, from beginner level up. She is also the president of nonprofit Quilts with a Divine Quest, through which she provides quilts to the homeless.
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From her booth at CRAFTED, Linda explained how she first became involved in quilting, talked about her creative process, displayed some of her work and offered a preview of her creations for Christmas season 2015. - The Best Kind of “Puzzled” October 17, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Self-taught artist Jeannette Aragon says she was far from an immediate success.
Looking at her work today, that statement seems almost unbelievable.
Photograph courtesy of Jeannette Aragon, and © 2015 The Puzzled One. All rights reserved.
Jeannette, who started her small business, The Puzzled One, in 2007, says it all began when she bought a scroll saw.
“I made some simple, unfinished 3-piece dinosaur puzzles for my nieces and nephew,” Jeannette emailed. “They had so much fun painting them that I decided to try (selling)… “paint-a-puzzle” kits at local farmers’ markets. My first experience…was not great. Everyone just walked by saying, “You don’t want those baby puzzles.”
So, Jeannette took the criticism and ran with it.
“I went home and started making different types…wood-burned jigsaw puzzles, then 3-D puzzles,” she said.
Photograph courtesy of Jeannette Aragon, and © 2015 The Puzzled One. All rights reserved.
“I introduced color into my puzzles and they started selling.”
Photograph courtesy of Jeannette Aragon, and © 2015 The Puzzled One. All rights reserved.
“Then came my mosaic puzzles, and from there it just kind of took on a life of its own.”
Even so, the growth process was slow. “It was really tough,” Jeannette remembers. “I signed up and went to a ton of fairs (at the beginning) but I would barely make my rent. Sometimes I didn’t sell even one puzzle at the show. But I kept at it, and it paid off.”
Photograph courtesy of Jeannette Aragon, and © 2015 The Puzzled One. All rights reserved.
Today, The Puzzled One is doing very well–both at shows and online. Jeannette handcrafts wooden puzzles and heirloom-quality toys for little kids and puzzles for us “big kids”. She also takes custom orders for all occasions.
Photograph courtesy of Jeannette Aragon, and © 2015 The Puzzled One. All rights reserved.
This wedding-tree puzzle is a recent new design, with a couple’s name and wedding date in the heart. It’s also a bestseller–and Jeannette says its origins are in the alphabet!
Photograph courtesy of Jeannette Aragon, and © 2015 The Puzzled One. All rights reserved.
“I make an alphabet tree,” she explained, “and customers kept coming to me (and) asking if they could buy an unfinished one for their wedding. I knew there were people out there making wedding puzzles, so I tried my hand at it. And they took off…I was selling them left and right.”
Jeannette said the wedding-tree puzzle represents just one of her custom designs.
“I recently started making wedding unity puzzles (which are perfect for a blended family, but also just a bride and groom),” she explained. “Each one is designed for that particular family. Each member of the family has their own puzzle piece with their name on it. (Then,) during the ceremony, they place their puzzle piece in the tray, signifying that they are now one big family.”
Photograph courtesy of Jeannette Aragon, and © 2015 The Puzzled One. All rights reserved.
In fact, Jeannette can custom-design just about any type of puzzle.
“I was commissioned to make a giant wooden mandala puzzle for a retreat center,” she said. “The mandala was an olive tree set in mosaic stone, like puzzle pieces. It measured a whopping four feet in diameter.”
While this particular order presented her with a challenge, Jeannette also said it wound up being one of her favorite experiences.
“At first I wasn’t sure how I was going to make it,” she explained. “It needed to be made from poplar, which only comes in (approximately 12-inch widths). So I spoke with my Dad and he taught me how to laminate boards together to create one large (one). Then we planed and sanded it and it looked as if it had always belonged together.”
The finished work, Jeannette said, turned out beautifully. “But the best part was working with my Dad. I learned a valuable technique and spent quality time with him doing the thing that I love best.”
Photograph courtesy of Jeannette Aragon, and © 2015 The Puzzled One. All rights reserved.
Today, the art she loves fills her days. “During the day I do my cutting and sanding…then at night, I do painting and work on business matters: budgets, marketing etc.”
“By the grace of God, my business seems to have taken off in the past months,” Jeannette emailed. “So I am struggling to complete orders while still getting ready for upcoming shows.” (However, her booth at any show will still be filled with all kinds of beautiful and colorful creations from before–look for her cherry tree, which is a total favorite!)
Would you like to meet Jeannette and see her work firsthand? She’ll be exhibiting at the Calabasas Pumpkin Festival, today and tomorrow. She also says she’ll be one of the featured artists at an upcoming church boutique in Burbank. We’ll give you the details as soon as we can find out where and when!
Can’t make the festival, but would like to know more about either her current work or a custom order for Christmas 2015? Jeannette says the custom design process varies, but once she and a customer agree on a final design, completing it will take her between 2 and 3 weeks. Here’s her website for more information.
Look for Jeannette Aragon, of The Puzzled One, at the Calabasas Pumpkin Festival, today and tomorrow, October 17th and 18th, from 10 am to 5 pm. The Festival is located at Lost Hills Road and Agoura Road, and admission is free.
Continue reading → - The Fabric of Imagination October 16, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
(Photograph courtesy of Rodi Ludlum, and used with permission.)
Colorful, vibrant and engaging–pottery, right?
Well–yes and no. Fiber artist Rodi Ludlum creates these bowls and vases out of fabric.
“I learned about fabric ‘sculpture’ in 2008 from a fellow art quilter who gave me (the now out-of-print book) ‘Fast Fun and Easy Fabric Bowls’ by Linda Johansen,” Rodi emails. “I loved making them!”For Rodi, who opened her Etsy store, Rodi’s Rolling Blackout, in 2010, that book was just the beginning.
After reading a second book, “Fast Fun and Easy Fabric Vases” by the same author, she was off and stitching…
(Photograph courtesy of Rodi Ludlum, and used with permission.)
…with gorgeous results.
“I taught myself from these great guides and over the years have developed my own techniques and patterns,” Rodi continues.
(Photograph courtesy of Rodi Ludlum, and used with permission.)
Her creative style involves incorporating a wide range of materials.
“Most of my fabric comes from quilt shops, but I also repurpose clothing, table linens, upholstery swatches and every kind of scrap donated by quilting friends,” Rodi explains. “The fun is in combining fabrics in interesting ways.”
(Photograph courtesy of Rodi Ludlum, and used with permission.)
Meeting Rodi at last summer’s Ojai Lavender Festival, we couldn’t help thinking what great Christmas gifts these would make. But–there’s one additional gift possibility, as well, for the “maker” on your gift list. (Even, or especially, if that “crafty” person happens to be you!)
Rodi also teaches lessons in her “fabric pottery” technique! She’s teaching both beginning and advanced fabric bowl techniques this weekend at The Quilters Studio, 1090 Lawrence Drive, south of Lavery Court in Thousand Oaks. Tomorrow, Saturday, October 17th, is her beginners’ class, with advanced techniques on Sunday, the 18th. Here’s the link for more information.
Continue reading → - A Sense of Wonder October 15, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
You’ve probably never seen anything quite like what Anthe Wosczyna creates.
That’s because Anthe (pronounced An-thee) designed her own process for her mandala earrings, necklaces and other beadwoven pieces she offers through her small handmade business, Little Muse Designs. (Heads-up: her heart designs are a favorite, and if you have a Valentine in mind, you might want to look at them NOW.)
Smoky quartz, antique chains and Swarovski crystals are among the materials Anthe incorporates into her work. Her designs are created with the idea of inspiring a sense of wonder and beauty in those who wear them–and she also names each of her creations..
Anthe talked about her journey as an artist and how she started her small business, Little Muse Designs. She also offered a preview of what she’s making for Christmas season, 2015!
Continue reading → - SPAA Welcomes September September 3, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
San Pedro Art Association is having a celebration! Of course, it’s going to be a colorful one–and you’re invited.
Their free “First Thursday Art Walk” happens this evening, Thursday, September 3, at 6:30. Walkers meet at the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce for a guided one-hour tour of local and visiting artists in open studios. Every “First Thursday” is different, with varying itineraries as these monthly tours visit approximately three different locations.
What they all have in common, though, is plenty of interesting creative spaces to explore. After the tour itself ends, it’s time to poke around and discover treasure on your own, among the local studios open for the occasion.
You’ll find no lack of “creatives” with whom to visit. Thirty-six open art spaces, studios and galleries are listed on this month’s map, on SPAA’s First Thursday website. For entertainment, the map lists “live music at the 6th and Mesa Street Plaza”, while the website mentions nine other venues.Be sure to check out this month’s special features, too. “Be the Change: the Corita Experience“. featuring the work of artist Corita Kent, opens this evening at San Pedro’s Klaus Art Center. South Bay Contemporary at the Loft also opens their show, “Via Negativa: The Transcendence of the unReal”, tonight. This exhibit features fourteen contemporary artists’ perceptions of negative theology and an attempt to clarity the religious experience.
A preview of San Pedro Festival of the Arts will be available, as well, as People’s Yoga Health and Dance offer a free dance concert, featuring several dance companies. (The flyer doesn’t list a time on this one, but the location is 365 West 6th Street, near South Meza.)
And you’re advised to come with an appetite. San Pedro has everything from English pub fare to Hungarian food–and of course, gourmet food trucks will be on site, as well.
All this, and free parking, too! Enjoy, and have a safe, happy and creative Labor Day weekend.
San Pedro Art Association’s “1st Thursday Artwalk” guided tour begins this evening, September 3, 2015 at 6:30 at the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, 390 West 7th Street near South Mesa. Parking is free on San Pedro Streets and in Municipal Lot after 6 pm, according to the San Pedro 1st Thursday Artwalk website. Here’s their link to download and print a map of the galleries and studios open for exploring in the old Downtown San Pedro area.
Continue reading → - Talent Plus Versatility August 15, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Today is an exciting “first”.
It’s also a chance to support some of our favorite artist/entrepreneurs in a new capacity.
When the first annual Mystic Dragon’s Festival of Books opens this morning at nine, in the City of Industry, at least three of our favorite Handmade in South Bay “creatives” will be onsite.
You may well know Barbara Lieberman from her handcrafted aromatherapy small business, Seeds of Inspiration. But did you realize that Barb is now a three-times-published author? 
(Fair warning: her metaphysical romance, To Miss the Stars, is impossible to put down! Now she has a new, and equally-inspiring, full-length novel: Message on the Wind.)Ellie Lieberman’s writing may come as a surprise to you, at first. Ellie, of course, is the proprietor of Acorn Tops, through which she crafts an enchanting miniature world: fairy doors, fairy houses and bottles. However–her first novel, Society’s Foundlings, has a dark tone…
….underneath which lies the same beauty and a sense of magic.
Last, but certainly never least, Jessica Johnson, who has now displayed her gorgeous graphics in two galleries (that we know of) and counting, is the proprietor of Jessie J Inspirations. You’ll find her warmly-imaginative creations on the “Gallery” page of her website–including these fun, Pokemon-inspired interpretation on standard pinups.Be sure to check the dates when Jessie’s exhibiting at community events. She is one BUSY artist, with at least one show planned for each of the remaining months of the year (and often more!).
Somehow, though, Jessica has also found time to do book illustrations. Notice the cover of Society’s Foundlings in Ellie’s hand, and this cover for Barb’s To Miss the Stars? Jessie created both–and makes them look very easy. Currently, she’s completing a third project: illustrating Evangeline Duran Fuentes’ forthcoming book, Friends Across The Border.Now, wouldn’t you like to meet these three very gifted ladies (who, by the way, also donate a percentage of their proceeds to a great cause, every time they make sales)? They’ll be just three of the talented authors and artists on hand today, at Mystic Dragon’s Festival of Books in the City of Industry, signing books and visiting with both current and new (avid) fans.
If you’re in the area, please consider coming down to support this exciting new special event–and maybe wind up with some new favorite books!
Mystic Dragon’s Festival of Books happens Saturday, August 15, 2015, from 9 am to 5 pm at Frank & Son Collectibles Show, 19649 East San Jose Avenue, west of Fairway Drive, in the City of Industry.
Continue reading → - Summer and Inspiration August 8, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
“We enjoy doing what we do,” says a recent email from San Pedro Art Association.
So, what do they do? All kinds of cool stuff, including classes, shows, art walks–and this.
San Pedro Art Association has been serving and inspiring artists since 1936. Next weekend, you’re invited to come and help them.Next Sunday afternoon, August 16th, SPAA hosts a closing reception at CRAFTED for their 2015 Harbor-Wide All Grades Student Art Competition Exhibition. They’ll be giving cash prizes for first, second, third-place and honorable mention winners to students in three categories: high school, middle school and grade school.
But, be warned. You’ll be called upon to make a difficult decision.A “People’s Choice” award gets given to the attendees’ favorite–and you get to vote.
So, good luck choosing just one, from among all these! Just walking around and “oohing” and “aahing” one mid-July afternoon, we concluded that’s going to be a toughie.
Refreshments will be served at the reception, which starts on Sunday, August 16th at 2 pm. Entertainment will be provided by local musician Patti Orbeck.
And best of all, every one of these talented young artists goes home with a prize. San Pedro Art Association awards a one-year student SPAA membership, along with a drawing set, to each participant.Sunday afternoon, color, music, smiles and encouragement? Summertime in Southern California doesn’t get much better than that.
San Pedro Art Association’s 2015 Harbor-Wide All Grades Student Art Competition Exhibition closing reception runs from 2 to 5 pm, Sunday, August 16th, at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street at Miner, Warehouse 10, in San Pedro. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - Crochet Will Never Be the Same July 26, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Who knew crochet could be so sexy?
Apparently, the answer is: Paula Crochet Fashion designer and yes4arts president Paula Bennett.
On Saturday, she shared that revelation–and put the “fun” in “fundraiser”.
Nonprofit yes4arts’ first major fundraiser, their “Fiber Arts Fashion Show”, happened Saturday evening, July 25th, at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center. 
The program showcased the work of five different designers, while proving that crochet, knitting and needle arts extend far beyond their “Granny” image.
The show started with a series of sundresses, which Paula designed in crochet.
Local comedians Caitlin Catt and Kari Martin were enjoyable masters of ceremonies, even when the unexpected occurred (as it will, with regularity, in any live event). They kept the show going, at times engaging audience members, during costume changes.
DJ Steven Padilla served up an excellent music mix, complementing the onstage action but never overwhelming it. At times jazzy, at times uptempo dance, his selections set the tone for a celebration.
Three different jewelry designers’ creations were featured in the show…
…including these beautiful pieces by Eileen Karrigan, of Eileen’s Beaded Jewelry.
One hundred percent of the evening’s proceeds will go to support yes4arts, which is a 501(c) nonprofit offering free classes in crochet, knitting and sewing basics to all levels, from “beginner” on up. Yes4arts’ goals are both to preserve these arts, and to empower students to create their own wearables, both to wear and to sell.
We especially enjoyed this portion of the program: five outfits designed by Louis Fournier IV, of LF Cubed Designs. They’re made with–recycled circuit boards and e-waste!
Here, model Lulu Zhang models one of Luis’ creations. Kari and Caitlin pointed out, in their commentary, that this dress provided her with her own personal “windchimes”!
But perhaps the biggest hit of the evening, were these confections whipped up by designer Jodi Beth Gilbert, of All Tied Up Custom Corsets.
Her costumes evoked every fantasy character from Cinderella…
…to Maleficent.
The Shakespearean phrase, “high fantastical”, comes to mind here!
In addition to the show itself, attendees had the opportunity to browse the silent auction (presided over by Diane Gonzales, from the Global Gifts UNICEF Shop, at CRAFTED). 
Not surprisingly, these beautiful artists’ donations were well received!
So were the chorizo selections whipped up by Humberto Raygoza, a/k/a “Chori-Man”, and these decadent offering by Tamiza Teja, of Tamiza’s Treats. (Tamiza, we trust you took the calories out–yes?)
And visitors also had the opportunity to purchase these dolls, designed to interest the next generation in crochet…
…as well as some of these crocheted vests and dresses.
The evening’s grand finale was this selection of crocheted dresses which Paula designed, from the jail scene of the movie “Chicago”…
…including the “Queen Latifah” dress.
“I am beyond happy,” Paula said, at the close of the evening.While the funds raised had not yet been totaled, Paula told us that six of the dolls and one of the dresses had been sold, and the contribution jar, for yes4arts, was full.
(This would be in addition to funds raised through ticket sales and the silent auction. After paying for the cost of the show–venue, equipment, etc., –all remaining funds go towards’ yes4arts’ ultimate goal: a mobile creative space, such as a van, that enables them to take their free classes to schools, shelters and other venues to continue empowering students.)
Congratulations, Paula and yes4arts staff, and thank you for a great time! We’ll see you at your “Santa’s Workshop” in November.(LIke to get involved? You’ll find information on yes4arts’ free classes, and on ways you can help, by volunteering or donations, on their website.
Meanwhile, mark your calendar for Saturday and Sunday, November 21 and 22–that’s when their “Santa’s Workshop” is happening at CRAFTED, in San Pedro!)
Continue reading → - Brick-and-Magic July 6, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Bright Bricks co-director Ed Diment makes building the world’s largest LEGO® model ship look easy.
The reality, however, can be quite different–as explained at Friday’s press event for this new exhibit at the Queen Mary, in Long Beach..
“Ed had to change the smokestacks three times,” offered Jordan Hays, staff member at Bright Bricks, Ed’s UK-based professional LEGO® building company. The issue? Well–getting the smokestacks round, while using square building bricks.Quite literally, putting square bricks in a round hole.
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As everyone admired this new permanent exhibit, Ed talked about his experiences as a professional LEGO® builder, and what it was like to create this 604-pound, 25-foot model. - A Creative “Voyage” July 4, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
When Ed Diment was two years old, someone gave him a LEGO® set. After that, he says, any other toys failed to impress him.
He’s been building with LEGO®s ever since.
On Friday, media and visitors had the opportunity to visit the Queen Mary, to see one of Ed’s latest creations, through his UK-based professional LEGO®-building company, Bright Bricks.
This is the world’s largest LEGO® brick ship model, weighing more than 600 pounds and using approximately 250,000 LEGO® parts. Ed and his team spent 600 hours building this 1/40 scale model of the Queen Mary.The Queen Mary model is a permanent exhibit, opening today, with the goal of introducing the next generation to the majestic ship.
Notice the building stations–young future artists are invited to create their own ships, after seeing the model!
Ed said he and his team are now working on a “Dragons, Knights and Castles” installation–featuring a life-sized princess and knight. And yes, there will be a unicorn! (The new work will be on display in February, 2016, and the finished pieces will be on display on Bright Bricks’ website.)
While we were admiring the Queen Mary model, Ed displayed his LEGO® speed-building skills.
On the spot, he created this microphone for an onsite reporter…
…as well as this dolphin.Next to the larger model, there was also this miniature Queen Mary–approximately the size of the average mobile phone.
Ed, who has won one-handed LEGO® building challenges, was asked how long it took him to build the mini-ship.“Oh–about twenty minutes.”
Bright Bricks’ LEGO® Queen Mary model is on display in The Shipyard, on the Promenade Deck of the Queen Mary, at 1126 Queens Highway in Long Beach. The display is open 10 am to 6pm daily; here’s the link for more information.
Continue reading → - You’re (Artistically) Invited June 6, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of San Pedro Art Association, and used with permission.)
Want to see some gifted artists smile?
You’ll get that opportunity, this Sunday, June 7th, as San Pedro Art Association celebrates the creative gifts of local students.As you can see, SPAA will be hosting a free awards reception, from 2 to 5 pm at CRAFTED, for participants in their All Grades Student Art Competition. You’re invited to come down and join them, applaud enthusiastically, ooh and ahh at the talents of the participating creatives, and throw roses and Belgian chocolates to the winners. (OK, OK, so I did just throw that last part in to see if you were paying attention!)What the poster doesn’t tell you, though, is just how far SPAA goes to support these young artists.
When we talked during a previous All Grades Student Art Competition exhibit, SPAA Vice-President Steve Magee had framed each entrant’s work. Steve happens to be an artist who specializes in framing (his small business is called Get Framed By Steve). So, the results were–well, pretty spectacular.
In the past, SPAA has hung the students’ work on exhibit in CRAFTED for the weeks following the awards ceremony. And while there are several categories in which competitors can win, including People’s Choice, no one really “loses”. Each participant receives a drawing set and SPAA membership for one year.If you’d like to support San Pedro Art Association (which has been supporting artists and the arts for the past seventy-nine years, and counting!), they’d love to have you attend Sunday’s reception at CRAFTED. And while you’re there, check out SPAA’s regular booth at CRAFTED and ask them about their upcoming events–especially their art classes and their next First Thursday Art Walk!San Pedro Art Association hosts their artists reception for their 2015 Harbor-Wide All Grades Student Art Competition this Sunday, June 7th, from 2 to 5 pm at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street at Miner, Warehouse 10 in San Pedro. Admission is free.
Continue reading → - CALB “Follows the Sun” May 21, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Summertime. Sun. Sea.
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach is celebrating them all–and if you’re based in Long Beach, they encourage you to submit your art, for an opportunity to join them!
Their exhibition, “Sunrises, Sunsets and Sails”, curated by Victor Ladd, opens Friday, June 5th at Shoreline Village Art Gallery. They’ve issued a call for local artists in the media of drawing, painting, sculpture, fiber, ceramics, prints, mixed media, books, photography, digital art, wood, and installation art. Work relating to the theme of “Sunrises, Sunsets and Sails” will be considered.
Submitting artists must have a yearly CALB membership (for insurance purposes). Membership information is available here, and discounts are available for students and senior citizens. Artists must submit an artist statement with their work, and submissions must be presented on Saturday and Sunday, May 30th and 31st, from 3 to 7 pm at their Shoreline Gallery space. (They’re located just above Shenanigans in Shoreline Village; the address is 423 C and D Shoreline Village Drive, in Long Beach.)Each submitting artist gets the opportunity to include two works in the show, and works submitted may be either for sale, or “NFS”–not for sale, simply for display. (CALB does have insurance coverage for their exhibits.) Students from the local colleges are welcome to submit work.
Artists whose work is accepted will be expected to attend CALB at the Shore’s opening reception, which takes place June 5th from 5 to 8 pm, and to be available to sell their work (unless, of course, you’ve designated it as “NFS”–not for sale, simply for everyone to enjoy!). While artists keep 100% of their proceeds, CALB requests a 10% donation back.
Now–what are the requirements? Besides being a local artist and CALB member in good standing, think “excellence” and “professionalism”. CALB emails that all prints and paper art must be framed, and that framing must be exhibition quality. You don’t have to be as talented a framer as Victor Ladd, who customizes his frames to enhance his work…
(Wow.)…but, frames must be in good condition. CALB tells us that mats must be clean and smoothly cut, and works on canvas are required to be framed or have finished edges. All artwork must be properly wired and ready to hang. And no saw-tooth hangers! (Ever.)For gallery exhibitions, each piece must be labeled on the back with the artist’s name, name of the piece, and price if it’s for sale.
NOW–important dates and times to keep in mind. The “Sunrises, Sunsets and Sails” exhibition runs from Friday, June 5th through Saturday, June 27th. Unsold artwork must be picked up on either Saturday, June 27th or Sunday, June 28th, between 3 and 8 pm. If left after those dates, pieces incur a $5.00 daily fee for every business day they’re onsite, starting one week after the pickup date. Thirty days after that, the work becomes property of CALB, and is theirs to sell. And while we love what they do, and encourage you to support CALB, that may be more of a contribution than would be comfortable, at this point.
Any questions about “Sunrises, Sunsets and Sails” or exhibiting? You can e-mail Cultural Alliance Long Beach at CALBarts@gmail.com, or give them a call at (818) 448-5312.
CALB’s “Sunrises, Sunsets and Sails” exhibition opens Friday, June 5th, with an opening reception from 5 to 8 pm, and runs through Saturday, June 27th, when there will be a closing exhibition from 5 to 8 pm. Artwork may be picked up during the closing exhibition.
Continue reading → - Lights…Camera…Creativity! April 11, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
What could be better than a film festival in a vintage theatre, complete with gilt ceilings and crystal chandeliers?
How about: a film festival with all of the above, plus a temporary art gallery showcasing jewelry, paintings and crafts from local artists–and different featured artists under the marquee?
That’s exactly what’s happening at the Warner Grand Theatre, for the LA Harbor International Film Festival in San Pedro this weekend.
Tonight, they showcase the classic Gypsy in the Warner Grand, and tomorrow is Documentary Sunday. And both days, the San Pedro Art Association hosts a pop-up gallery in The Arcade Building, in conjunction with the festival and just across the street from the theatre. They will also have a different featured artist displaying his or her work, just under the marquee.
Tonight, the scheduled guest artist is Krisjan Klenow, with her striking line of Steeling Pompeii jewelry. And tomorrow? Well, according to an email from the SPAA–it’s a surprise. But we can tell you, the talented members of SPAA will have you “oohing” and “aahing” even before you see the art-deco splendor of the Warner Grand.
San Pedro Art Association’s LAHIFF Pop-Up Gallery continues today, April 11th and tomorrow, April 12th, from 11 am to 10 pm inside The Arcade Building, 479 West Sixth Street between South Pacific Avenue and South Mesa Street, in San Pedro. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Harbor International Film Festival continues with a screening of Gypsy in the Warner Grand Theatre , 478 West Sixth, tonight at 7. Then tomorrow, April 12th, “Documentary Sunday” runs from noon to 7 pm; here’s the schedule of films.
Continue reading → - Save the Date–in July March 14, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
We have some wonderful news.Remember our earlier interview with designer Paula Bennett, of Paula Crochet Fashion? She teaches free crochet and knitting classes–and all she asks in return, is that her students pass on the techniques she’s taught them.
Paula’s website, for her volunteer organization yes4arts, is now up and running! She emailed that the site started in January, 2015. And this summer, her dream of a fashion show, featuring her fiber-arts creations, will become a reality.
Save the date–it is–ta-dah! Saturday, July 25, from 6 to 10 pm, at Torrance Cultural Center’s Toyota Meeting Hall.
(Flyer courtesy of Paula Bennett, and used with permission.)
Paula says her “Fiber Arts Fashion Show” will feature the work of two main designers: herself and Jodi Beth Gilbert, of All Tied Up Custom Corsetry & Costumes. It’s going to be an evening of entertainment, fun and, of course, fabulous fashion.
She also says that a hundred percent of the proceeds, from the show, will go to benefit yes4arts, which currently features free sewing instruction, in addition to her earlier offerings of knitting and crocheting classes. A quilting class is planned, for 2016.
Want tickets? They’re going to be limited, but you can find out more here–there’s a discount till March 31st!
Can’t go to the fashion show, but you’d like to help support Paula in her outreach to schools, group homes and senior centers? She can use a few good volunteers–along with donations of yarn, crochet hooks and knitting needles. Here’s a link with more information.
Paula Bennett’s “Paula Crochet” is located at Booth 108 of CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street, Warehouse 10 (at Miner). Stop by and say “hi”, Fridays through Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm, and ask her about her free classes. Meanwhile, her “yes4arts Fiber Arts Fashion Show” is happening Saturday evening, July 25th, from 6 to 10 pm at Toyota Meeting Hall in the Torrance Cultural Center, 3330 Civic Center Drive, west of Maple Avenue.
Continue reading → - Glass, Clay and Creativity March 7, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
March is National Craft Month. And today, Gayle Fleury and Regina Fernandez, co-founders of Seaside Studios San Pedro, will be doing something interesting.Oh, wait–that’s every Saturday.
Maybe I should say, today Seaside Studios San Pedro is adding another special event to their usual jewelrymaking classes, pottery classes, and open-studio hours.They’ll be hosting a Glass Art and Glass Clay workshop, with world-renowned glass artist Paula Radke, at 1:00 this afternoon.
Paula crafts ooh-and-ahh-gorgeous beads and cabochons with dichroic glass. Her shapes are really fun–sure, she makes round beads too, but I really like her twists and rectangles, especially those cool silver-and-black stripes.
According to the blurb on Seaside Studios’ Facebook page, Paula will be teaching all kinds of fun “extras” in today’s workshop. She’ll be demonstrating her self-developed techniques, along with some new ways to work with dichroic glass. And while materials are included in the class fee, she’ll also bring extra inventory, if you get seriously addicted and can’t resist creating extra projects!
More details on today’s class are available here–and if you’d like a closer look at some of Paula’s recent creations, you might like to visit her Facebook page.
And while you’re there, you may want to ask Gayle and Regina about their future plans. They’re sure to be scheduling something fun and “crafty”, for National Crafts Month and beyond.The Glass Art and Glass Clay Workshop with Paula Radke runs from 1:00 to 5:00 pm today, Saturday, March 7, 2015, and the cost is $100 per person. According to this link, space is still available in the class, but you might like to check with Seaside Studios,at (562) 673-7660.. Seaside Studios San Pedro is located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard, Suite 3, are located between Beacon and O’Farrell Streets, across from the dancing fountains.
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- Love and Creativity February 14, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Love is an essential part of being an artist.
And this Valentine’s Day weekend, a number of gifted artists would like to share the work they love, with you.
In the Long Beach area, Cultural Alliance of Long Beach are continuing their Black History Month exhibition, entitled “A Celebration of Heritage”.Paintings, pencil drawings, mixed-media pieces and African artifacts are all a part of this thought-provoking exhibition. Masks, woodcarvings and an intricate (and beautiful!) Nigerian beaded crown are just a few of the things you’ll see, and exhibiting artists include Shy But Flyy and Deborah Alvarez.
CALB’s “A Celebration of Heritage” art exhibit continues from now through Saturday, February 28th at their Shoreline Village location. The address is 423 Shoreline Village Drive, just upstairs from Shenanigans Irish Pub and Grille, and gallery hours are Fridays and Saturdays, from 3 to 8 pm, and Sundays from 3 to 7.
Meanwhile, across the bridge in San Pedro, CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles has plans for Valentine’s Day.In addition to their displays of eclectic work from more than a hundred local artisans, they’re featuring dancing to live music by the Harbor Jazz Ensemble, today from 2:30 to 5:00 pm. You can also show off your Valentine creativity at their “Creation Station”, where guests can create Valentine cards and wreaths both today and tomorrow. And some of the cool offering from their exhibiting artists, for you and/or your Valentine, include Cupid aprons, heart jewelry and (if you’re lucky) some pretty incredible hand-dipped chocolate marshmallows!
CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, a year-round crafts marketplace, is located in Warehouse 10 at 112 East 22nd Street, near Miner, in San Pedro. Their hours are Friday through Sunday, from 11 am to 6 pm.
Now–OK. The next show we’re going to mention is NOT open this weekend.San Pedro Art Association has a current exhibit called “It’s All San Pedro”, which is open on weekdays only.
But, we’ll tell you about it anyway, because it’s such a great idea–and also because we love them.
SPAA’s “It’s All San Pedro” exhibition features the work of fourteen artists, including Audrey Marlett, Carlos Boisselle, and Joyce Welsh. Media on display include paintings, digital art and assemblage–all inspired by life in San Pedro.
“It’s All San Pedro” is on display in the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce Board Room Gallery, located at 390 West 7th Street, east of South Mesa. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday (however, they’ll be closed on Monday, the 16th, for Presidents’ Day). “It’s All San Pedro” runs from now through Friday, February 27th.
A very Happy Valentine’s Day to you and the special people in your life–and have a safe holiday weekend!
Continue reading → - CALB Seeks Artists January 24, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
“Heritage” is a beautiful word.It’s also one on which the Cultural Alliance of Long Beach is basing their next art exhibit–and they’d like your talents to be a part of it.
February is Black History Month–and CALB is issuing a call for artists, for their exhibit entitled “A Celebration of Heritage”!
“A Celebration of Heritage” runs from Friday, February 6th through Saturday, February 28th. Artists may bring up to three works, on Monday or Tuesday, February 2nd and 3rd, from 3 to 7 pm, to CALB’s new Shoreline Village space, just above Shenanigans. CALB says at least one of the works will be chosen for the exhibit.
Artists may submit: paintings, hand-made sculptures, mixed-media and handmade musical instruments for consideration. CALB, which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting artists of all ages, in all disciplines, does have some requirements for exhibitors:
(a) For insurance purposes, they need all exhibiting artists to be current CALB members. Their regular annual membership fee is fifty dollars, but students and kids over fifty-five (I like that better than “seniors”, don’t you?) may join for twenty-five dollars.
(b) CALB requests a 10% commission/donation on all works sold.
(c) In an effort to make exhibiting more of a collaborative experience, CALB requires all exhibition participants to gallery sit, one evening of the show.
(d) Enjoy sharing your creative gifts, and your heritage. (Oh, wait–that’s not a CALB requirement. It just seems to happen a lot, for exhibiting artists at the CALB shows we’ve seen in the past.)
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach will be accepting works from artists for their “A Celebration of Heritage” exhibit on both Monday, February 2nd, and Tuesday, February 3rd, from 3 to 7 pm at their Shoreline Village location, at 423 Shoreline Village, upstairs from Shenanigan’s. CALB has begun a membership drive, in which all exhibiting artists are required to update their memberships or become new members; membership information is available here.
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- New “Beginnings” at CALB January 11, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
(Photo courtesy of Cultural Alliance of Long Beach, and used with permission.)
What do you think of, when you think of new beginnings?
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach has a new exhibition, at their Shore Gallery space, that explores this question.
CALB‘s first exhibition of 2015, entitled “Beginnings”, opened Friday, January 9th. Works by artists including Keith Lilly, Carol Swanson and Cynthia Lujan illustrate the aspects of a new start: challenging, exciting, fearful, joyous or otherwise.
In tandem with the exhbition, CALB has its own additional new beginning: an event series, called “Artists, Authors and Music“. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 3 to 7 pm, their Shoreline space will feature family-friendly happenings combining live performances, and poetry readings with their current art exhibit. This afternoon’s presentation features live music by Shy But Flyy and Friends, with readings by Philosophy, Black Charlie, Dragonfly Jon and Nerd.
Looks like CALB is getting 2015 off to an inspiring start–and you’re invited!
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting working artists of all ages, and in all disciplines. Their new show, “Beginnings”, runs from now through Friday, January 30th, at their Shore Gallery space, in Shoreline Village at 423 Shore Village Drive, just above Shenanigans. Admission is free to the exhibit and “Artists, Authors and Music” series, with hours from 3 to 7 pm, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. They’re open this afternoon, Sunday, January 11th at 3.
Continue reading → - Fresh “Beginnings” in Long Beach January 4, 2015
by Noella Noelophile®
Okay–admittedly–the Christmas season is winding down.We’re seeing fewer lights on at night (I like mine on through January 6, how about you?), there are Christmas trees out on the curb for recycling (sigh), and the Christmas music has stopped playing in public places until–well, at least until mid-November.
Which means, it’s time to look forward to something exciting.
Fortunately, Cultural Alliance of Long Beach is planning something special.
To start off the New Year, they’re hosting a new show, called “Beginnings”, at their new Shoreline space. And they’re looking for artists to participate.
Their show will feature paintings, sculpture and photographs, exploring the theme of “Beginnings”. Show dates are Friday, January 9th through Friday, January 30th.
Artists may drop off up to three works at CALB‘s Shore art space on Monday, January 5 and Tuesday, January 6, from 3 to 7 pm. At least one of the three will be selected for the show.
Have fun, and have a very creative and Happy New Year!
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach’s Shoreline space is located at 423 Shoreline Village Drive, just upstairs from Shenanigans Irish Pub and Grille, in Long Beach. There is no entry fee for “Beginnings”, but they do require that all exhibitors become CALB members; you’ll find more information on membership here. “Beginnings” will open this Friday, Jan. 9th, from 5 to 8 pm. Thereafter, show hours are Fridays and Saturdays, 3 to 8 pm, and Sundays, 3 to 7 pm.
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- Christmas at the “Seaside” December 23, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Seaside Studios San Pedro–a/k/a artists Gayle Fleury and Regina Fernandez–are celebrating a very creative Christmas.For Gayle and Regina, this is their first Christmas in their exciting new studio/gallery/classroom space!
During an early-December visit, Gayle and Regina talked about their journey as artists, their experiences opening Seaside Studios San Pedro and the directions they’re taking, as we approach 2015! AND, they displayed their current community outreach project–glazed bowls for the Empty Bowls Project–in which you can get involved, at no charge! 
Gayle Fleury, owner of Aussie Girl Designs, and Regina Fernandez, owner of Port Town Pottery, have their new creative space, Seaside Studios San Pedro, at 525 North Harbor Boulevard, Suite 3, in San Pedro, between Beacon and O’Farrell Streets, across from the dancing fountains. You can see and purchase their cool creations during open studio hours on Saturdays, 10 am – 3 pm, or Monday afternoons. They’d also welcome you to come and glaze a bowl, for free, in support of The Empty Bowls Project. In addition to their Saturday hours, you may be able to stop by during the week if you call first: (562) 673-7660.
Continue reading → - Creating, Achieving, Giving December 20, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Artists Gayle Fleury and Regina Fernandez have embarked on an exciting entrepreneurial journey.And it’s all about community–and giving back.
Gayle and Regina opened their new creative space, Seaside Studios San Pedro, in April of this year. Besides showcasing each artist’s line, Seaside Studios San Pedro offers art classes and special events. They also have open-studio hours–and this Christmas, not only are they showcasing Gayle’s imaginative jewelry and accessories for her Aussie Girl Designs……and Regina’s colorful and beautiful Port Town Pottery ceramics……they’re also involved in a creative community project, with which they’d like your help.
Gayle and Regina are currently offering everyone an opportunity to come into their studios and glaze a ceramic bowl, for free, as part of the nationwide Empty Bowls Project. The Empty Bowls Project is a grassroots effort to feed people in need. 
So, Regina and Gayle are providing these bowls to be used in a fundraiser soup supper, in February, to benefit Harbor Interfaith Services–a San Pedro nonprofit which helps the homeless and working poor. At this writing, they could use at least seventy more glazed bowls. They’ll be continuing to have open-studio hours on Saturdays in December, and possibly into early January.
Gayle and Regina talked about their backgrounds as artists, the genesis of their new creative space and some of the steps on their entrepreneurial journey.Seaside Studios, San Pedro, are located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard, Suite 3, in San Pedro, between Beacon and O’Farrell Streets, across from the dancing fountains. If you can’t come by on Saturdays or Mondays but will be in the area and would like to glaze one or more of their bowls to support the Empty Bowls Project, you can also reach Gayle and Regina at (562 673-7660. And you might like to ask them about their upcoming classes!
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- Christmas Sparkle at CRAFTED December 8, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Admittedly, the first Saturday in December is always special anyway.But this past weekend, Handmade in South Bay added a little extra sparkle.
HMSB’s second annual “Holiday Boutique”, at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, featured more than fifty handmade-only artist/entrepreneurs–including some brand-new ones who were getting their first taste of following their dreams.From 11 am to 6 pm, HMSB showcased the work of their talented artisans–and we found some brand-new favorites!
One of the first artists visitors saw, after entering CRAFTED’s big side room, was Gail Rugnetta of Angel Art Dreams. Her Viking knit jewelry is both unique and beautiful: two personal favorites were her copper knotted bracelets, and her earrings made with Swarovski crystals.
Just down the aisle was Katrina de los Reyes, of Wicks and Wine. She crafts her luscious-colored, fragrant soy candles in recycled wine bottles!
Stephanie Beebe’s small business, Paper Petals, offers intricately-designed floral arrangements and boutonnieres made of paper.
We also couldn’t resist these handcrafted blankets by Jackie Demyers, of Crafts by Jacqui. Her fabrics are every bit as soft as they look–and a lucky two-year-old on our gift list is going to love her new butterfly blanket!
Speaking of gifts, Alexandria Krajewski, of Accessory Alchemy, not only had handmade elf hats, but a variety of steampunk and vintage-inspired jewelry and accessories. She said she’d made these Christmas tree necklaces specifically for this show–and they sold out!
Handcrafted Christmas jewelry was also a major temptation at Mary Anne St. John’s Mer’s Obsessions booth. (Seriously, we tried to resist her Swarovski-crystal Christmas-tree earrings, but, well…)Now starting their second year, HMSB is a community of artists–and one that gives back.
One exhibit, in particular, was an exciting addition to Saturday’s show.
Tasha Greenberg and Osvin Suazo were on hand to talk with visitors about CITY, a nonprofit program which teaches entrepreneurship to Los Angeles youth, ages 14 to 24.CITY Executive Director Chandra Stovall explained that the HMSB boutique was a soft launch for the students on hand, who were getting their first taste of selling to the public!
Among the new exhibitors was Stephanie Guerrero, with her cute mini-Christmas cards and custom caricature pins. Her small business is called “Honeyfuggle“!
There was also another first, for this particular show.
After we finished admiring her pine-scented Christmas-tree aromatherapy sachets (what a great “Secret Santa” gift!), Barb Lieberman, of Seeds of Inspiration, mentioned that this “Holiday Boutique” included an “Artist Alley” of pop culture artists. She added that HMSB’s upcoming Spring Boutique will also include an “Author Alley”!(Let’s hope she reads from her latest work, when that happens. Barb just published her second book, To Miss the Stars, and she’s currently at work on her third one!)Across the hall, Ellie Lieberman, of Acorn Tops, showcased her whimsical fairy houses, fairy doors and Christmas ornaments. A portion of her proceeds on her red heart doors went to a women’s shelter.
And Jessica Johnson, of Jessie’s Custom Greetings, offered some unique pin-up Christmas cards, ornament/card combos and gift card holders! Jessica’s working on another art piece after making her first gallery sale earlier this year.
Like the other artists of Handmade in South Bay, Jessica gives back through her creations. According to her website, this Christmas season, she’s again donating a portion of her proceeds–along with blank cards for service members to send to family and friends–to San Pedro Packages for Patriots.All in all, Saturday was a fantastic day of Christmas, crafts and community–and this sign says it all:
Merry Christmas and Happy Anniversary, HMSB! See you in the spring.The majority of HMSB’s artists do custom orders, and can be reached through their Facebook pages and Etsy shops.
Meanwhile, year-round crafts marketplace CRAFTED, at 112 East 22nd Street, Warehouse 10, in San Pedro, is open Fridays through Sundays, from 11 am to 6 pm, and has some special “make-and-take” workshops and pop-ups scheduled for the next two weekends!
Continue reading → - Love-Filled “Empty Bowls” November 17, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
(Photo courtesy of Seaside Studios San Pedro, and used with permission.)
This Christmas season, San Pedro has a brand-new art space.
And wait’ll you hear about the creative (and very cool) community outreach project they’re sponsoring.
The new creative space is Seaside Studios San Pedro, which opened in April of this year. They have classes, a gallery and studio time available–and judging from their Facebook page, they’re really creating some gorgeous ceramics, jewelry and fabric art. You’re invited to come by, see what they have and maybe do some early Christmas shopping at their gallery.
(Photo courtesy of Seaside Studios San Pedro, and used with permission.)
Their special project, though, is called “Empty Bowls”, and is in addition to all of this.
From now until Christmas, Seaside Studios San Pedro will have open-studio Saturdays, where they’d like you to come in, for free, and glaze a bowl for firing in their kiln. Once the bowl’s fired, it’s included in the price of admission to a “Soup Supper”, scheduled for early February, where proceeds go to Harbor Interfaith Shelter to feed the hungry.
I’ll look forward to giving you more information on their upcoming classes as we get closer to Christmas! Meanwhile, you’re cordially invited to bring your talent and come help them give back.
Seaside Studios San Pedro are located at 525 North Harbor Boulevard, near North Beacon Street, in San Pedro. They’re Suite #3, on the second floor, and are located just across from the cruise ship terminal and the dancing fountains. According to their Facebook page, they’re having open-studio hours from 10 am to 3 pm, every Saturday from now till Christmas.
Continue reading → - DIY Inspiration For Christmas November 11, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Designer Erica Domesek is having fun.
Her designer line, P.S.–I Made This, is all about adding color and festivity to what you wear, where you live and what you’re doing.
And Christmastime gives her the perfect opportunity to make things festive, in some new and innovative ways.
At the Craft and Hobby Association‘s 2014 MEGA Show, in Anaheim, Erica shared some thoughts on adding a personal touch to Christmas decorating!
Continue reading → - CALB Rocks New Gallery Space November 7, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Long Beach is full of gifted artists.
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach now has another venue in which to showcase them.
This afternoon, CALB welcomed guests to their new twelve-hundred-square-foot gallery space, above Shenanigans Restaurant in Shoreline Village for their inaugural group art exhibit, “Shades of Long Beach”. The exhibition featured sixteen local artists’ perspectives on the theme of living and working in Long Beach.
Photographer Keith Lilly’s work reflects his love of his vocation: sports. (Keith is a professional athletics coach whose proteges have included both NFL and NBA luminaries. As a student athlete, he won the Moore League title three times!)
Keith said he wanted to be certain to share this photograph: the late Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn was a classmate. Here, Keith captured him in action, the way Padres fans remember him.
Meanwhile, photographer Denise C. Dube’s work emphasized the warmth and beauty of locations. Her pictures included the stunning colors of a Long Beach sunset, the Queen Mary at night and a warm-looking downtown clock tower.
“Life at the Beach” is the name of mixed-media artist Deborah Alvarez’s composition on the right. She creates her intricately-detailed three-story houses out of paper!
Photographer Victor Ladd added extra dimension to a breathtaking nighttime photograph. Unexpected colors, textures and contrasts spotlight the bridge.
Painter and show curator Tom Scherschel uses color and shape in a dramatic contrast. Notice how the water, under the pier, seems to be lapping at the shore!
Something else to notice? The poem on the wall, to the left.
Professional writer Laurie Zupan is the poet–and she and Tom collaborated on this project: an illustrated poetry chapbook! They’ll be doing a poetry reading tomorrow, and will be signing copies of their new book.
CALB‘s new exhibit space includes a performance area–and when we were there, the musicians were just starting. Open mic, spoken word and poetry will be continuing throughout the weekend.
Tom says CALB will be occupying their new space at Shoreline Village for several months, and that they’ll definitely be there through Christmas. Which is excellent news, not only because their new “CALB at the Shore” program promises to be interesting and a lot of fun, but…
…because their new space includes this. Tom says they’ll be hosting art classes for kids, starting on Sundays. And what better way to keep excited next-generation artists busy at Christmastime–and happily occupied once Santa has come and gone?
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach’s “Shades of Long Beach” exhibit continues through Sunday, November 30th. “CALB at the Shore” hours are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, from 3 to 8 pm at their new gallery space, just upstairs from Shenanigans Irish Pub and Grille, 423 Shoreline Village Drive. The new gallery has a full bar, and food is available for order from Shenanigans downstairs. “Starving artists” may become a thing of the past.
Continue reading →
- Calling All Artists! November 7, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Happy New Gallery, CALB!
As of today, Cultural Alliance of Long Beach has a brand-new Shoreline Village gallery space, complete with lots of interesting possibilities. They’ll be opening at 3:00 this afternoon, in their new 1200-square-foot space above Shenanigan’s Restaurant.
Now–they need some additional artists, to help them fill the space with creative activities.
On a volunteer basis, they’re looking for creative people who can serve as curators, one weekend day or evening per month, and provide family-friendly artistic activities. Suggested activities include (but are not limited to): classes; dance, music or theatre performances; poetry or book readings; writing workshops; and any other art-related activities that would appeal to the entire community.
CALB‘s new volunteer curator opportunities: (a) are great for your resume and outreach to the community; (b) allow you, as an artist, to ask for donations; and (c), most importantly: are a lot of fun. Proposed art activities must be approved by CALB’s Curatorial Committtee. Once approved, the curator is required to stay at the Shoreline space for the entire period allotted to the art activity.
CALB does not charge for performance or display space rental. For insurance purposes, they must ask you to become a member of CALB–here is an application to download. (Yes, they do have to charge a membership fee; you may want to e-mail or call them with questions; while their website lists an individual membership fee as $50, their Facebook page lists the membership fee for volunteers curators as $25. You can e-mail them at CALBarts@gmail.com, or call (562) 436-3421.)
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting artists in all areas of the arts, celebrates the opening of its new Shoreline Village gallery space today, November 7. The new gallery, located over Shenanigans Restaurant at 423 Shoreline Village Drive, is open Fridays and Saturdays from 3:00 to 8:00 pm, and Sundays from 3 to 7 pm.
Continue reading → - Not Your Grandma’s Crochet November 1, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Say the word “crochet” and what comes to mind? Grandma making an afghan or mom creating something lacy for a new baby–right?
Well, that’s not what Paula Bennett does.
Instead, she designs slinky, sparkly crocheted dresses perfect for a night on the town. Her small business, Paula Crochet Fashion, features halter tops, sweaters and even wedding gowns that are feminine, sexy, and romantic.
Best of all, she doesn’t keep her knowledge a secret. Not only does she offer her patterns for sale on her website and Etsy store–Paula also uses crochet as a means of inspiring and empowering others. Through her program, Crochet Warm Hearts, she teaches free crochet classes to all ages. All she asks, in return, is that people share what she has taught them with others and keep the art of crochet alive. And she’s published a magazine which includes a number of her patterns!
Paula, who came to the U.S. from Belize in 1999, has been at CRAFTED since May of this year. She talked about her background, her experiences with crochet and some exciting future plans involving her art and her students.
Like to check in with Paula about her free classes, see the latest cool design she’s created or even support her soon-to-be nonprofit by donating yarn and/or crochet hooks? You can find her at Booth 108 of CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street, Warehouse 10 (at Miner).
Continue reading → - SPAA Needs You October 27, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
This was originally going to be a “great news!” post, with a look at some of the exciting fall makers’ festivals coming up.
But then, I checked my e-mail–and there’s more urgent news to tell you.
San Pedro Art Association’s gallery, in Ports O’ Call, is closing its doors. The only good thing, is that SPAA is NOT going away.
According to an e-mail from Bill Boisselle-Schalaba, SPAA’s secretary, the artists may begin picking up their work today. SPAA has to be out of their Ports O’Call space at Berth 77 by this Sunday, November 2.
“This is far from the end,” emailed Bill. “We are looking for a new home for our gallery. We are open to hearing suggestions on available spaces in town.”
San Pedro Art Association has now been serving artists in the San Pedro community for seventy-eight years. You’ll recall that they sponsor an annual All Grades Student Art Competition for local schools. They also offer classes in jewelry design, photography and painting, as well as regular shows for their members. We’ll keep you posted on their new space and upcoming events as more information becomes available
Meanwhile, you’ll still find San Pedro Art Association’s talented artists exhibiting their work at CRAFTED. Bill says they’ll continue to host their monthly “First Thursday Art Walks” at San Pedro’s Croatian Cultural Center. The next one scheduled for Thursday evening, November 6th from 6 to 9 pm.
Would you like to connect with SPAA, offer a suggestion for a new gallery or just express your support? You can reach them at their Facebook page–and, hopefully, in a new display space very soon.
Artists may pick up their work from San Pedro Art Association’s gallery, located at Berth 77, Building P18, Nagoya Way in San Pedro, starting today. SPAA will continue to exhibit at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street, Warehouse 10, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 am-6 pm. Their next “First Thursday Art Walk” exhibit and mixer happens Thursday, November 6 from 6 to 9 pm at San Pedro’s Croatian Cultural Center, 510 West 7th Street near South Olive. Displayed work is usually for sale and refreshments are served.
Continue reading → - A “Beehive” of Creativity October 25, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Things are buzzing in Brie Walter’s part of the world. Oh, and she’s pretty busy, too.
Brie is a floral designer, who creates some breathtaking wedding arrangements through her small business, Brie’s Honeybees & Flowers. She’s a new mom, as well as an artist, entrepreneur AND a blogger. On top of all that, she and her husband are beekeepers!
In addition to floral arrangements, Brie’s Honeybees & Flowers features some gorgeous dried-flower creations (check out the burlap head wreaths and boutonnieres in her Etsy store!), beeswax candles, and they’ll soon be offering honey from Brie’s own honeybees.
Brie talked about starting her small business, her experiences working with her bees (what she’s learned about them may very well surprise you!), and some of the cool things she’s creating for Christmas season 2014.
Continue reading → - Customized With Love–and Thoughtfulness October 21, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
The past year has been an exciting one for graphic artist Jessica Johnson.
Not only has she seen her first gallery sale, but she recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of her small business, Jessie’s Custom Greetings!
Jessie creates lines of unique greeting cards and custom announcements for all occasions. Her work ranges from beautiful to whimsical, as you’ll see in the custom work on her Facebook page.
And while she loves to create cards and make her customers happy, she’s also giving back. Jessie donates a portion of her sales to a different charity each month, and she’ll be supporting San Pedro-based Packages for Patriots™ this Christmas season.
Jessie talked about her background as an artist, her experiences as an artist/entrepreneur, and what she’ll be creating for the 2014 Christmas season.
Continue reading → - A “Beadaful” Approach October 19, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Designer Donna Levy is beautifying gardens in a new way. Actually, maybe that term should be, “beadifying”.
Besides the woven bead jewelry she designs, Donna creates “garden jewelry” for her small business, Beadaful Designs by Donna. She has also come up with a unique way of remembering a loved one or pet, through her jewelry.
Donna talked about her background, her experiences as an artist entrepreneur and some of her creations.
Continue reading → - Her Magical Miniature World October 15, 2014
Melanie J. Flegal is familiar with magic.Artist entrepreneur Melanie describes herself as a “fairy homemaker”. For her small business, Meldogminiatures, she creates woodland dioramas, doll houses, doll house furniture and accessories, and just about anything else imaginable.
Melanie’s enchanting miniatures include a custom-made tree-trunk dollhouse and a welcoming-looking woodland neighborhood bar, where you can easily imagine the forest gnomes stopping in for an acorn brew, after work. And she’s currently at work on some Christmas-themed dioramas for Christmas 2014.
Melanie talked about her experiences as a creative entrepreneur, and offered a preview of the special gift items she’s creating.
Continue reading → - Artists in Search of…a Surfboard September 21, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
Pardon me, would you happen to have an extra surfboard?
(No–not for me. For Cultural Alliance of Long Beach!)
Next Saturday, September 27th, CALB will be participating in “Color Me Long Beach“–a multicultural “urban arts” and video festival. Music, dance performances, art workshops and community-resource exhibits will all be a part of the celebration.
And among the hands-on creative workshops will be an “Our City, Our Ocean” live art session with artist Claudio Garzon. Claudio, who is currently exhibiting his work as CALB’s “Artist of the Month”, will show Color Me Long Beach attendees how to recycle plastic debris into some intricate–and beautiful–steampunk sculpture.
But first, he needs a surfboard someone isn’t going to use anymore. On CALB’s Facebook page is an example of his previous work, created with a surfboard, as a foundation, along with recycled plastic trash and a gift for seeing things in a different way.
According to their Facebook page, CALB needs the surfboard donated by this Friday, September 16th. If you can help, please contact them through Facebook, or give them a call at (562) 436-3421.
Don’t happen to have an extra surfboard, but you’d still love to see what Claudio’s creating? You can if you go to CALB this week. He’ll be their “Featured Artist” through September 28th, with his “Plastic Castaways” exhibit. CALB’s hours are 4:00 to 9:00 pm, Wednesday through Friday, as well as Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 pm, in CALB’s Bungalow Art Center.
And don’t miss Color Me Long Beach, next Saturday!
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach is located at 729 Pine Avenue, near 7th, in downtown Long Beach. Gallery admission is free. Meanwhile, Color Me Long Beach will be happening at Long Beach Boulevard and 3rd Street, next Saturday, September 27th from 4:00 to 9:00 pm. Admission is free, and they’re looking for some amazing volunteers. Here’s the link if you can help.
Continue reading → - SPAA Ready For Fall September 7, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®
A fall art show? Already?
Absolutely. Even if we technically have two weeks of summer left, San Pedro Art Association is on it.
This weekend, they’re hosting their Fall Art Show at their gallery: Berth 77, in Ports O’ Call, not far from San Pedro’s new Harbor Plaza. They have all kinds of unique creations for sale, from more than fifty talented artists. Jewelry, ceramics, paintings and photography are just a few of the media in which SPAA members specialize.
And not only do they make cool things–they also do cool things.
In existence since 1936, San Pedro Art Association sponsors an annual All Grades Student Art Competition for local schools. Students from elementary, middle and high schools in San Pedro get to compete, with every entry getting a gallery-style showing: SPAA Vice President (and master framer) Steve Magee frames the students’ work professionally. While the competition does have a grand prize and People’s Choice Award winner, every student also takes home a ribbon, and a prize for entering.
SPAA also offers First Thursday Art Walks at San Pedro’s Croatian Cultural Center, the first Thursday of every month. Their weekly classes currently include painting (oil or acrylic), jewelry design and creativity and expression. And now they’re in two locations: in addition to their regular gallery, they also have a booth at year-round marketplace CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles.
If summer has to be over, this is a great way to welcome fall–and get an early start on some Christmas shopping.
San Pedro Art Association hosts the second day of their free-admission Fall Art Show today, September 7, from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm at Ports O’ Call Village, Nagoya Way, Berth 77 in San Pedro. And after you’ve seen their gallery, additional members will be exhibiting their wares in CRAFTED, at 112 East 22nd Street, Warehouse 10, in San Pedro. CRAFTED is open from 11 am to 6 pm today, with free admission and parking.
However, if you have more time, San Pedro’s waterfront trolley gives free one-and-a-halfmile rides to just across the street from CRAFTED–and getting to travel in this reproduction of the vintage Red Car is an experience that’s not to be missed.
Continue reading → - A “Handmade” Salute to Heroes August 30, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®Uh-oh. A deadline’s coming up.
Normally, I don’t talk about deadlines on Labor Day weekend, especially! But you might like to know about this one, which is this Tuesday, September 2nd.
That’s the deadline to reserve your tickets for Handmade in the South Bay’s First Annual Salute Our Troops All-American Barbecue.
On Saturday, September 13th, Handmade in the South Bay hosts this special event at Ma Griffe Galerie, in San Pedro. All proceeds go to San Pedro’s Packages for Patriots, as they send “care packages” to our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
And this promises to be a party! They’re having a silent auction, raffle, collection of needed items for our service members, and, of course, great food. Best of all, attendees get to help some fantastic artist entrepreneurs say “thank you” for our freedom–including the ability to create, design, open our businesses and follow our dreams.
But–if you’d like to go, they need to know by next Tuesday. Seating is limited, and no tickets will be sold at the door on the day of the barbecue.
Here’s Handmade in the South Bay’s link for more information. Meanwhile, have a great, and safe, Labor Day weekend!
Continue reading → - Our Next Generation of Artists August 9, 2014
by Noella Noelophile®What’re you doing this Sunday afternoon? Would you be available to encourage some gifted young artists by going to look at their work?
If so, the San Pedro Art Association would love to see you at CRAFTED.
This Sunday afternoon, August 10th, starting at 2:00, SPAA is hosting an artists’ reception for the participants of their annual San Pedro All Grades Student Art Competition Exhibition. These are students in San Pedro’s grade schools, middle schools and high schools.
And as you’ll see from these photographs of last year’s exhibition, they have a lot of talent.Pictured here is San Pedro Art Association Vice President Steven Magee. Steve, who is a master framer, wowed the young participants of last year’s show by framing their work. As he told us in an earlier interview, the kids came to CRAFTED expecting to see their creations tacked up on a wall someplace, but instead they found…
…this.
At Sunday’s reception, the SPAA will award cash prizes for First, Second, Third and Honorable Mention winners in each of the three school categories. And, you get to vote for a favorite–there will be a People’s Choice award!
Best of all, no one’s going home empty-handed. All participating students receive drawing kits and one-year student memberships to the San Pedro Art Association, which is one of the oldest art associations in Southern California (they’ve been encouraging artists since 1936!).
Admission is free, of course, and who knows–the artists you applaud today, may be the ones in your favorite gallery tomorrow.
The San Pedro Art Association’s artist reception for the 2014 San Pedro All Grades Student Art Competition Exhibition takes place this Sunday afternoon, August 10th, at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, at 112 East 22nd Street, Warehouse 10, near Miner. Admission is free and refreshments will be served. Come prepared to applaud very enthusiastically!
Continue reading → - A Red, White and Blue Invitation June 21, 2014
Hooray! Long Beach’s traditional Independence Day fireworks celebration is returning to Veterans Memorial Stadium, after a two-year absence!
And Cultural Alliance of Long Beach would like to know if you can help them celebrate.
On July 4, prior to the fireworks show, they need up to six artist volunteers to coordinate theme-related art activities in the parking lot,.prior to the fireworks show. They’d also like to hear from performing artists who might like to donate their time. If you’re a local artist who’d like to help,. please email calbarts@gmail.com.
Not familiar with CALB? They’re Long Beach’s arts-support community, who make arts accessible to the public and support working artists in all disciplines. This October, they’ll celebrate their two-year anniversary–and if you’d like to see some of what they do, you might like to start this afternoon! Today at 3:00, they’re having their Summer Solstice Celebration, and you’re invited!
Cultural Alliance of Long Beach hosts their Summer Solstice Celebration from 3:00 to 7:00 pm today with Mayan and Aztec dances, songs, cultural art and flute building. They’re located at 729 Pine Avenue, near East 7th Street, in Long Beach, and admission is free.
Continue reading → - Handmade With Love…and Inspiration June 14, 2014
(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.)
by Noella Noelophile®
How time flies when you’re creating, inspiring, supporting artists…and giving back to the community.
(Of course, all of the above are fun!)
Unbelievably, Handmade in South Bay will soon celebrate its one-year anniversary! According to their Facebook page, this gifted group of handmade-only entrepreneurs started up last September. Since then, they’ve hosted: a December Handmade Boutique, a full-out Holiday Boutique, a First Annual Spring Boutique in April, and now they’re planning both a Sizzling Summer Bazaar, next month, and a “Salute to the Troops” fundraiser in September!
(Can you tell, we’re talking about some passionate, committed artisans here?)
Handmade in South Bay also offer members’ classes, hold monthly meetings and publish a blog.
HMSB Boardmember Barb Lieberman, proprietor of Seeds of Inspiration, shared the story of Handmade in South Bay’s creation, and the ways they support the local community.
Handmade in South Bay will host their Sizzling Summer Bazaar at Ken Miller Center, in Torrance, on July 27th. They’re currently accepting applications for vendors (till July 1) and looking for “young entrepreneurs”, under 18, to exhibit their creations.
Continue reading → - Inspiration in the Air June 7, 2014
(Photograph courtesy of Ellie Lieberman and used with permission.)
by Noella Noelophile®
Barb Lieberman creates what amounts to a handcrafted hug.
Her designs evoke my favorite grandmother’s perfume, Christmas cookies, and the lilac tree that always bloomed on an early-spring morning in the back yard.
And while her creative endeavor, Seeds of Inspiration, is technically a family-owned small business, it’s really more of a calling. Barb says her goal is to use her talents to inspire, relax, rejuvenate–and give back.
Barb crafts aromatherapy pillows, sachets, “mug-huggers” and other unique items–based on her knowledge of the ways scent enhances our lives. From the first day of Seeds of Inspiration, in autumn of 2012, Barb has donated a portion of her proceeds to charity. According to Barb’s Etsy store, from now through the end of this month, she’ll be giving ten percent of all her sales to San Pedro-based Packages for Patriots™.
Barb, who is an avid gardener, shared the story of creating Seeds of Inspiration, talked about the inspiration she’s living and explained some of the ways aromatherapy can make a difference.
You’ll get TWO opportunities to meet Barb and see her Seeds of Inspiration creations–including a new one created especially for the occasion–at the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival, Saturday, June 28–AND at Handmade in South Bay’s Sizzling Summer Bazaar, coming up in July!
Continue reading → - Vintage Humor and Fun March 1, 2014
(Photo courtesy of Kristy Streicker, and used with permission.)
One of jewelry designer Kristy Streicker’s most popular pieces is a delicate, lacy-looking cameo, representing a beautiful woman.
And then, a closer look reveals–the woman is a skeleton.
Kristy, who creates vintage-look wearables, crafts both more traditional pieces (her silver flower earrings are gorgeous!) and edgier ones, like the skeleton cameo and her Halloween zombie earrings. She started her small business, Kristy’s Custom Creations, in 2009, and recently ran a successful Kickstarter campaign with her cameo skeleton necklaces.
Kristy talked about her creations, the genesis of her small business, and her life as a creative entrepreneur.
Continue reading → - Kristy Streicker Interview, Part Two March 1, 2014
Artist/entrepreneur Kristy Streicker, of Kristy’s Custom Creations, previews the special things she plans to make for Christmas (and Halloween) 2014!
Continue reading → - Crazy Enough to Inspire February 22, 2014
“It takes a lot of craziness to put a magazine together,” says artist Lisa Rojas.
She would certainly know.
And so would fellow artists Carol Heppner, Ann Butler and Theresa Cifali. The four of them are the creative team behind Bella Crafts Quarterly™!
Now, in case you’re unfamiliar with Bella Crafts Quarterly™–it’s a free digital publication, filled with cool DIY projects, artist profiles, articles on crafts entrepreneurship, and social-media tips for artists. Carol, Lisa, Ann and Theresa started Bella Crafts Quarterly in 2012, with the goal of inspiring everyone–entrepreneurs and hobby crafters alike.
Looking through their Winter 2013 issue, I personally love the soldered pendant how-to, tips on Twitter for crafters and that gorgeous “Lovely Luminary” candle Lisa came up with. And her article on hosting a card swap may very well be something you’d like to bookmark, for next Christmas season. But that’s just me–they have a Spring issue coming up soon, and you’re likely to find other personal favorites!
At the Craft and Hobby Association’s 2014 Winter Trade Show, Carol and Lisa talked about their background as artists, the origins of their magazine, and their lives as a creative team.
Continue reading → - Urban Inspiration February 8, 2014
What did you see on your most recent commute? How did it inspire you?
Gaby Contreras answers those questions on a daily basis.
Gaby creates patterns, illustrations and silkscreens, based on what she sees on her way to work. Her designs are available as zip pouches, zines and more through her small business, Gaby & Co. And she’s looking forward to exhibiting more of her work at L.A. Zine Fest, coming up next weekend!
At the Designers’ Showcase in the Craft and Hobby Association’s recent Winter Trade Show, Gaby talked about her background, her creative process and future plans–and offered a daily artists’ exercise!
L.A. Zine Fest happens Sunday, February 16th, from 10 am to 5 pm, at Helms Bakery, 8703 Washington Boulevard at Helms Avenue, in Culver City.
Continue reading → - Her Art Equals Living the Dream February 1, 2014
Conventional “wisdom” holds that “art doesn’t pay the bills”.
Elizabeth Shepard can challenge that statement–as neither wise nor true.
Elizabeth is a professional illustrator and designer, who has been a working artist all her life. And not only does she love being creative for a living–she maintains that others can do the same thing. She conducts classes and has created a workbook to help artists realize their dreams of earning a living with their talents and creativity.
At the Designer’s Showcase of the Craft and Hobby Association‘s 2014 Winter Conference and Trade Show, she talked about her experiences as a working artist and the resources she offers, as the steps towards making a living doing something you love.
Continue reading → - A “Sparkly” Inspiration January 26, 2014
Designer, entrepreneur and author Erica Domesek has a mission: to make the world around her more fun–and beautiful–with her talents.
During the Craft and Hobby Association’s recent Winter Conference and Trade Show, she demonstrated some ways to do that.
Enthusiastic students gathered around as Erica taught a Swarovski Crystal workshop. The women learned to create either a dinner ring or a bracelet–and everyone appeared to have a great time!
After the workshop, Erica talked about creating her fashion and lifestyle line, P.S. I Made This, as well as her new DIY-project book, P.S. You’re Invited!
Continue reading → - “Wondrous” Stitchery January 18, 2014
When most people knit or crochet, they think in terms of afghans, stuffed toys and wearables.
Fiber artist Nathan Vincent thinks much, much bigger.
Nathan’s creations were an eye-catching attraction at the Craft and Hobby Association‘s recent Winter Conference and Trade Show. He had designed, and supervised the knitting and crocheting of “Seven Wonders of the World”, for the Lion Brand Yarns exhibit!
Nathan talked about his artistry and the process of creating his imaginative exhibition, and offered a preview of some free patterns, available online from Lion Brand!
Continue reading → - CHA and You January 12, 2014
by Noella Noelophile™OK. Admittedly, this particular post didn’t start out this way.
I’d planned to tell you all about what was happening at the Craft and Hobby Association’s 2014 Mega Show, going on from now through Tuesday at the Anaheim Convention Center.
I’ll still do that. But first, here’s something you might like to use immediately.
These are just a few of the creative resources available for your use, courtesy of the talented and passionately artistic people on-hand at this, the largest international trade show in the world.
Let’s start with the brand-new online creative community, cre8time.org, which contains free DIY project videos and how-to’s. Craft and Hobby Association President and CEO Andrej Suskavecic says that this is an online movement designed to help people reclaim their creativity. (Think about it–what don’t you do, that you’d like to, when everything else seems to be clamoring for your attention?)
Cre8time.org encourages everyone to take just 8 hours out of a month, to do something of a creative nature–knitting, painting, jewelrymaking, name it–and share it online. Check out the videos and project descriptions, you are certain to find something fun–and be thinking about what you might like to post, as a part of this community.
Next? Well, how about this–a free online quarterly crafts magazine, which you can read and download? That would be Bella Crafts Quarterly, which was the inspiration of four hugely talented women in 2012. I had the pleasure, this afternoon, of talking to Editor-in-Chief Carol Heppner and Editor-at-Large Lisa Rojas about their magazine, which Lisa said “took a lot of craziness” to put together. Clearly, it’s a creative “craziness” both of them love passionately–and you will, too. Check them out on Facebook–and if you happen to be a blogger who loves crafts and writing about them, they’re looking for some guest bloggers! They’d like to hear from you, at info@bellacraftsquarterly.com.
And there’s another opportunity available for you, too.
Perhaps you’d like to know more about making a living as an artist. Conventional “wisdom” holds that that’s difficult, if not impossible.
Nonsense, says Elizabeth Shepard.
Not only has Elizabeth been making a living as a professional artist for most of her life–she also teaches workshops called, “How to Make a Living As an Artist”, all over the Los Angeles area, and she’s written a book, “Your Art Workbook”. You can find out more by e-mailing her, at eliza.artist@gmail.com.
And that’s it–except to tell you that I can’t wait to share the stories of these amazing creative people with whom I had the opportunity to speak, this weekend at the the Craft and Hobby Association’s 2014 Conference and Trade Show! Look for their interviews to show up here next, on noelophile.com!
Continue reading → - Spinning Into Christmas December 13, 2013
Miryha Runnerstrom is sharing a tradition.
As she explained in an earlier interview, her interest in fiber art started as a very small girl, when she watched her mother and grandmother knitting and crocheting. Today, artist/entrepreneur Miryha creates knitting patterns, as well as hand-spinning and hand-painting her own yarns, which she offers through her small business, Blarney Yarn. Her colorways are breathtaking–some look almost-edible, while others evoke autumn, a swim in the Caribbean or the light just after sunset.
In this update, recorded just before Thanksgiving, Miryha catches us up on what’s been happening with Blarney Yarn. And she shared some good news–she’s created some brand-new knitting patterns, which she’ll have available–along with her knitting kits, spindle kits and that luscious-looking yarn–when she exhibits at the Renegade Craft Fair, in Los Angeles, this weekend!
Miryha (pronounced MARIAH) will be exhibiting her yarns at Booth 63 of the Renegade Craft Fair’s Los Angeles Winter Show this Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15, in Los Angeles State Historic Park.
Continue reading → - Miryha Runnerstrom Interview, Part Two December 13, 2013
MIryha Runnerstrom, proprietor of Blarney Yarn, talks about the directions in which her creations are evolving and her perspective on exhibiting in shows–and shares a busy entrepreneur’s tip for getting ready for Christmas!
Miryha (pronounced MARIAH) will be exhibiting her yarns at Booth 63 of the Renegade Craft Fair’s Los Angeles Winter Show this Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15, in Los Angeles State Historic Park.
Continue reading → - Handmade, Indie and Fun December 12, 2013
(Graphic courtesy of A Little Known Shop, and used with permission.)
by Noella Noelophile™
The late Mae West is quoted as saying, “Too much of a good thing, is wonderful.”
If she were alive today, she might be saying that about this weekend.
On Saturday, December 14th, A Little Known Shop, in Anaheim, will have their “Handmade for the Holidays” boutique, from 11 am to 4 pm. They’ll be offering all kinds of great crafts–including jewelry, Christmas decor, toys, and my personal weakness–handcrafted scented soaps. There’s also a “Dr. Who” art exhibit, by local artists.
Christmas 2013 is special time for co-proprietors Eva Lacey and Danielle Ochoa–as you’ll hear from our earlier interview, this is their first Christmas as small-business owners!
But–they’re not the only ones celebrating a new venture.
(Graphic courtesy of Handmade in the South Bay, and used with permission.)
Brand-new independent artisan group, Handmade in the South Bay, are having their debut “big” event this Saturday, with all kinds of amazing creations. They’ll have at least twenty-five handmade-only businesses on hand at the Lomita-Harbor City Kiwanis Club, from 10 am to 3 pm for their “First Annual Holiday Boutique”. Santa will be visiting, as will Eddie DeAngelini, of Collectors, to sign copies of his new book. And you can bring the children for make-and-take crafts, courtesy of Brownie Troop 15585, Boy Scout Troop 851 and Cub Scout Pack 851!
And besides supporting and promoting independent South Bay artist/entrepreneurs, HMSB also offers a chance to “give back” at Christmastime. Friends of Torrance Exceptional Athletes will be there to accept gently-used sports equipment and financial donations. There will also be a food drive for Community’s Child, a nonprofit dedicated to serving homeless women with infants.
Merry Community Christmas–and have fun this weekend!
A Little Known Shop, in Anaheim, is located at 423 South Brookhurst Street, south of West Broadway. Their “Handmade for the Holidays’ boutique is happening Saturday, December 14th, from 11 am to 4 pm. Meanwhile, Handmade in the South Bay will have their First Annual Holiday Boutique on the same day, from 10 am to 3 pm, at Lomita-Harbor City Kiwanis Club, located at 24822 Narbonne Avenue, south of West 248th Street.
Continue reading → - Partners in Creativity November 30, 2013
What happens when you combine ceramics with woodworking?
Ask Marie Perrin-McGraw and Robert Turek.
Marie and Robert met at Cranbrook Art Academy and became partners, both in life and in design. As a talented creative team, they’ve been collaborating on projects since 2011. This year, they began combining her favorite creative medium with his, in their brand-new contemporary-art product line, Lustered Walnut. And they’ve incorporated their sense of humor right into their mugs, jewelry and furniture!
The couple talked about some of their Lustered Walnut creations, the lessons they’ve learned as small-business owners and what they would like to teach their six-month-old son about being an artist.
Continue reading → - Marie Perrin-McGraw and Robert Turek Interview, Part Two November 30, 2013
- Marie Perrin-McGraw and Robert Turek Interview, Part Three November 30, 2013
- Fast But Festive November 27, 2013
Remember the Christmases of yesteryear? When the whole family made salt-dough ornaments, or gathered greenery and hung it all through the house?Your schedule just may not allow for that in 2013. And no one would understand the problem better than Eva Lacy and Danielle Ochoa.
Eva and Danielle are two of the three co-proprietors of A Little Known Shop, a new retail artists’ collaborative in Anaheim. And this will be their first Christmas as shop owners.
So, in between arranging displays, teaching crafts workshops, hosting and planning special Christmas events and serving customers, they’ve figured out how to make things look Christmasy–without having to spend hours they don’t have.
Eva and Danielle shared some of their favorite easy decorating tips.
Continue reading → - Culturally Amazing, Long Beach November 25, 2013
by Noella Noelophile™
This Black Friday, how would you like to support some gifted artists?
Good! CALB just happens to have a lot of them.
This Friday, November 29th, the Cultural Alliance of Long Beach is sponsoring a “Black Friday Art Market”, with 22 tables of art available for sale. Artists exhibiting will include: Emily Kiwa Tanaka, Paul Hogue, Thea Robertshaw and Norma Rosen.
CALB is more than an art gallery, performance venue or community organization–even though it combines all three. Their mission is to provide a collaborative center for artists of all ages and disciplines to work, connect and perform. Since their inception in October of 2012, they’re hosted almost every type of artist-supporting event imaginable: screenings, performances, exhibits, and special events like their “Cherry Blossom Festival”, complete with hands-on workshops, last spring.
Ten percent of the proceeds from their “Black Friday Art Market” will go to support their programs–which promise to continue adding a lot of color and vibrancy to downtown Long Beach as they continue in their second year.Oh–and before I forget, they’d also like to invite you to a party. Their “Holiday Party” (I like the term “Christmas party” myself, but that’s just me!) happens on Wednesday, December 10th at 7:30 pm. Come celebrate with some very cool talented “creatives”!
The Cultural Alliance of Long Beach will host their “Black Friday Art Market” on Friday, November 29th, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Bungalow Art Center, 737 Pine Avenue in downtown Long Beach. The Bungalow Art Center will also be the venue for their Holiday Party, happening at 7:30, Wednesday, December 10th.
Continue reading → - Changing the World With Creativity November 17, 2013
Graphic courtesy of Handmade in South Bay, and used with permission.
Yayyyy! Southern California has a brand-new creative community!
And they’re showing everyone what they can do.
Handmade in South Bay is a new organization of handmade-only entrepreneurs. Their mission is to support and promote creative small business owners in the South Bay community. And that mission translates into: lots of cool creations, fun ideas and DIY classes, available this Christmas season as they get going!
All through this month and December, Handmade in South Bay will be offering “Handmade for the Holidays” DIY classes in El Segundo. Their upcoming offerings include workshops on creating safety-pin bracelets (we remember these from the 1970s! They’re a very cool vintage craft!), Hanukkah stamps, and decorating holiday tables.
And they’ll just be getting warmed up at that point.
Continue reading → - Handcrafting Something Amazing November 11, 2013
Avoiding temptation just became considerably more difficult.
Now, Rondo Mieczkowski’s award-winning artisan foods are available for delivery.
Rondo, who founded his small business, Coldwater Canyon Provisions, in 2010, handcrafts some amazing things, using family recipes. Among his more unusual offerings: blueberry jam, pickled apples, and strawberry rhubarb jam.
That jam is actually a milestone of sorts–it won a “Best in Show” award at the 2010 California State Fair–and convinced Rondo to start offering his handcrafted specialties commercially.
Rondo talked about his experiences as an entrepreneur, some of his Coldwater Canyon specialties and his plans for the future.
Rondo offers his Coldwater Canyon creations–including award-winning Tarragon Cherries and his incredible bread-and-butter dill pickles–both on Etsy and at the Studio City Farmers’ Market every Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm. He will also be exhibiting at the Unique L.A. Holiday Show, in early December, and the Renegade Craft Fair Winter Market, in Los Angeles, the following week.
Continue reading → - Rondo Mieczkowski Interview, Part Two November 11, 2013
Think this bestseller from Rondo Mieczkowski’s Coldwater Canyon Provisions looks tempting? Wait’ll you hear about the original handcrafted specialties he offers!
Continue reading → - Dreams In Full Bloom October 23, 2013
Angela Price excels at creating beauty. And she doesn’t need a lot of space to work her magic.
Angela, who is the owner of Eden Condensed, specializes in small-space garden design, and creates unique miniature gift terrariums, vintage container gardens and some other fun stuff!
Angela talked about the origins of her small business, Eden Condensed, and her life as an artist/entrepreneur.
Continue reading → - Angela Price Interview, Part Two October 23, 2013
Design © 2013, Eden Condensed, and used with permission.
Artist/entrepreneur Angela Price, of Eden Condensed, tells the stories behind her handcrafted miniature terrariums—and offers a preview of her new creations for Christmas, 2013!
Continue reading → - Angela Price Interview, Part Three October 23, 2013
What works–and what doesn’t–for an independent entrepreneur?
Artist Angela Price, of Eden Condensed, answers these questions with a look at her experiences, operating and promoting her small business.
Continue reading → - Where Tradition Becomes New October 19, 2013
Bookbinding is an ancient art–literally dating back to the beginning of writing.
Graphic designer and author Erin Zamrzla manages to make it something new. And she also makes it accessible to crafters, as a way to create unique Christmas gifts!
Erin not only crafts unique books for active twenty-first century lifestyles, but shows fellow creatives “how-to” in her own new book, Handmade Books For Everyday Adventures. Among the special projects she demonstrates: a photo-notes book; a “write-your-own story” journal; a nature excursions leaf and flower press; and this necklace book!
At the Los Angeles Summer Renegade Craft Fair, Erin talked about her creations, her life as an artist/entrepreneur, and some of the projects her readers may want to consider, as special Christmas gifts.
Continue reading → - Fun, Community and Talent October 17, 2013
For Danielle Ochoa and Eva Lacy, Christmas 2013 came early..
This Christmas season will be their first one as full-time small-business owners–after opening A Little Known Shop in May!
This “crafty” new venture, in a hidden plaza in Anaheim, is a retail space showcasing the work of more than thirty local, independent artists. And Danielle and Eva celebrated their first months in operation with all kinds of interactive events: workshops, giveaways, participation in a series of “Crafternoons” designed by The Makery owner/operator Lisa Cherry–and even a flash mob!
Now, A Little Known Shop is getting ready for a busy Christmas season! Danielle and Lisa talked about their own backgrounds as artists, and how their dream became a reality.
Continue reading → - “A Little Known Shop”, Part 2 October 17, 2013
“A Little Known Shop” proprietors Danielle Ochoa and Eva Lacy recalled last May’s grand opening of their independent artists’ collaborative in Anaheim.
Continue reading → - “A Little Known Shop”, Part Three October 17, 2013
So, what are some of the special events “A Little Known Shop” will be planning, this season? They’re starting off with a spooky Halloween! Proprietors Daniella Ochoa and Eva Lacy offered a preview.
Continue reading → - “A Little Known Shop”, Part Four October 17, 2013
Suppose you have a dream–similar to what happened for Danielle and Eva when they opened A Little Known Shop in Anaheim? Danielle talks about what you might expect, in terms of some of the highs and lows.
A Little Known Shop, at 423 South Brookhurst, in Anaheim, is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Continue reading → - Designing a New Tradition October 15, 2013
Remember the early-December afternoons when Grandma tied on her apron and whipped up your favorite Christmas cookies? Or the skirt Mom liked to wear on summer vacations? Or the family celebrations, when she set the table with the good china and linen napkins?
Fabric artist Jennifer Gomez remembers them well.
Talented Jennifer designs sets of colorful cloth napkins, vintage-look aprons, classic skirts and more for her small business, Traditionally Unique! Unlike their old-time counterparts, though, these handmade creations have vibrant colors,user-friendly shapes (her cloth napkins are rectangular, so they won’t slide to the floor and leave you hunting under the table!), and the idea, as Jennifer’s Etsy page says, of being “easy and fun”.
At the springtime Patchwork Show, Jennifer talked about her background of her fabric art, some of her favorite fabric art and the designs she has available for Christmas (or Hanukkah) shopping season, 2013. (And, heads-up–if you have a classic-style gift in mind and don’t see it on her Etsy page, she does do custom orders!)
Continue reading → - “Artisanal” Excellence October 13, 2013
“Would you like a sample?”
Those words were repeated throughout the afternoon–and saying “no” didn’t seem like a very fun option. (Full disclosure: this reporter took complete advantage of proffered samples–and expects to be doing the extra workouts to prove it!)
At the second day of today’s Artisanal LA Fall 2013 show, the offerings were tempting, unusual and in some cases–previously unimaginable. (Coconut bacon? Hey, why not?)
Today’s show involved two floors of the downtown LA Mart, with exhibitors–both food vendors and craftspeople–on the second floor, and workshops and book signings on the 11th.
Stand-out favorites in a superb lot? Well, that’s a tough choice, but among the crafters, I especially liked these mugs, crafted by Marie Perrin-McGraw and Robert D. Turek, of Lustered Walnut:..
And these gorgeous wood items crafted by Linda Hsiao and Kagan Taylor of Knotwork...
…and there was just no resisting these cute mini-terrariums by Angela Price, of Eden Condensed. (Wait’ll you see what she’s created for Christmas, this year!)
And nobody could resist the free poems Billimarie Robinson was writing, on her PINK vintage Royal manual typewriter!
Now–how about the food? Suffice it to say that choosing favorites wouldn’t do anybody justice–it was all incredible! However, our Facebook gallery does feature a few of the food vendors who were willing to be photographed (and thank you, to all of them!).
Artisanal LA organizers say they may not have a “Pop-Up Holiday” show this year–there IS a lot involved, to coordinating everything here, and they would have eight weeks, max, turn-around time to get everything ready. But you can be sure we’ll be watching for the next “Artisanal” show!
Continue reading → - Sweet Melodies, Expertise and Humor September 21, 2013
Photograph courtesy of Wayne Jiang, and used with permission. Wayne Jiang and Patricia Delich are the creators of the new documentary, “HEARTS OF THE DULCIMER.”
Joellen Lapidus knows all about dulcimers.
A musician most of her life, she’s been crafting the instruments since the 1970s–as well as playing and teaching others to play them.
Joellen evokes her instrument’s Appalachian roots, transports audiences to a simpler time and tempts her listeners to start dancing! She also comes up with some well-crafted interpretations of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez compositions. But her original music tends to be the standout part of her shows–incorporating catchy melodies, a sense of humor and a sound that’s by turns jazzy, thoughtful and poignant
Joellen, who will be performing a free concert at CRAFTED, in San Pedro, on October 19th, talked about her creative process and offered a preview of some of the songs she and two of her favorite musicians will be performing.
Joellen Lapidus will be playing dulcimer and accordion at CRAFTED, at 110 East 22nd Street in San Pedro, from 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm on Saturday, October 19th. The performance is free.
Continue reading → - The Consummate Artist September 14, 2013
(Photograph courtesy of Maureen McTeague, and used with permission.)
Joellen Lapidus is engaged in a labor of love.
True, she is a professional (classically-trained) musician. A songwriter, she composes and performs music for, and teaches, the dulcimer. She has also written a step-by-step guide to learning the instrument.
But her interest goes far beyond that–to actually building custom dulcimers.
Continue reading → - Making Magic Happen for Artists August 2, 2013
How many organizations do you know, that have been supporting artists for seventy-seven years?
Well, here’s one.
The San Pedro Art Association–who just recently opened a booth in CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles–offer classes, networking events and chances for members to exhibit their work. They also just sponsored a highly successful “All Grades Student Art Competition” for San Pedro schools.
Steve Magee is both the Vice President of the San Pedro Art Association, and a master framer who loves what he does! He talked about what the SPAA offers artists, and your chance to come by and see what their talented members have been creating!
The San Pedro Art Association have booth #A133 at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, in addition to their gallery in Berth 77 of San Pedro’s Ports o’ Call Village. CRAFTED is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 6 pm. SPAA’s gallery hours at Ports o’ Call are Tuesday through Sunday, 11:30 am to 6 pm.
Continue reading → - The Artistry of the Brush April 27, 2013
“Feel the bristles,” directed calligrapher Henry J. Josefsberg, Esquire, during CALB‘s recent Cherry Blossom Festival.
Intrigued, his student touched her brush to the ink block. Henry, who has a background in art history, then patiently talked her through the process of drawing the Chinese symbol for “happiness.” Meanwhile, other visitors watched with interest–and lined up for their chance to learn.
The painstaking process of Chinese calligraphy seems miles away from our three-minute-microwave and instant-download culture. But Henry, who is both an attorney and a filmmaker/photographer by profession, clearly loves every moment of it.
Henry talked about his background in calligraphy, and its role as a building block for Chinese art. Great news: if you missed his lessons at the Cultural Alliance of Long Beach in early April, he’s also scheduled to teach a calligraphy class through CSULB’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Tuesday evenings in June!
Henry will be teaching beginning calligraphy classes through CSULB’s Osher Life Long Learning Institute, Tuesdays at 5:30, starting July 9th. Classes run through August 13th, at the Cultural Alliance facility in downtown Long Beach, on Pine Avenue at Seventh. Advance registration is required; for more information, e-mail olli@csulb.edu.
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- Zen and the Art of Calligraphy April 27, 2013
Artist Henry Josefsberg was a popular draw at Cultural Alliance of Long Beach recently. Guests lined up for Henry’s lessons in Chinese calligraphy during CALB’s first-ever Cherry Blossom Festival!
Here, Henry gives a mini-lesson in calligraphy basics–and demonstrates that calligraphy starts before the brush ever touches the paper!
Henry will be teaching beginning calligraphy classes through CSULB’s Osher Life Long Learning Institute, Tuesdays at 5:30, starting July 9th. Classes run through August 13th, at the Cultural Alliance facility in downtown Long Beach, on Pine Avenue at Seventh. Advance registration is required; for more information, e-mail olli@csulb.edu.
Continue reading → - Broadening Horizons April 27, 2013
Henry J. Josefsberg, Esquire, is an attorney, photographer, filmmaker and art historian.
But a completely different area of his expertise had guests lining up to learn from him at the Cultural Alliance of Long Beach’s recent Cherry Blossom Festival.
Henry is an expert on Asian calligraphy! At the Cherry Blossom Festival, he invited guests to choose one of a number of Chinese characters. Then, he patiently talked each visitor through creating the character he or she had selected.
Henry talked about a lesson he himself had recently learned, about his art. He also gave details on his upcoming beginners’ calligraphy class, which he’ll be teaching in downtown Long Beach in June.
Henry will be teaching beginning calligraphy classes through CSULB’s Osher Life Long Learning Institute, Tuesdays at 5:30, starting July 9th. Classes run through August 13th, at the Cultural Alliance facility in downtown Long Beach, on Pine Avenue at Seventh. Advance registration is required; for more information, e-mail olli@csulb.edu.
Continue reading → - “Pointedly” Gifted March 2, 2013
An explosion of color…textures that make everybody want to touch what they’re seeing…and lots of time spent creating something breathtaking.
Those are some of the components of the works of artists Dean Triolo and Craig Allen. Their works recently appeared on display in the first of three galleries we toured at Cultural Alliance of Long Beach. Cultural Alliance of Long Beach is an exciting, and relatively new, nonprofit arts organization in downtown Long Beach. Their mission is to support working artists–in all disciplines–and connect them with the public, to display (and often, sell!) their work.
Space manager, grant writing expert and CALB secretary Karen Reside talked about the works on display, and explained the artists’ style–pointilism.
Continue reading → - An Enchanting “Obsession” February 12, 2013
Shirlee Yantz is having fun…and so are her customers!
For her small business, Enchanted Chic, Shirlee creates warm, imaginative, and very often humorous fused-glass jewelry, plates, and custom art! Recently, she expanded her calling (well, OK, she says it’s an “obsession”) by opening her shop at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles.
While I personally love her hearts and would advise any bride-to-be to ask her what she has for a wedding cake topper, she can make anything you request, in glass.
Shirlee talked about her interest in her medium, and some of her experiences creating special pieces. Wait’ll you hear about her funniest custom order!
Continue reading → - Bad Cats, Great Beads February 2, 2013
Rain Hannah is living her creative dream…and expanding it.
Her whimsical line of handcrafted jewelry, Honey and Ollie, is now available at her stall at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles–where Rain not only sells her own work, but displays fellow artists’ creations for sale. Her journey, as an artist, tends to inspire friends to craft their own creative paths.
In her blog, Rain says that providing that inspiration…along with delight…is her life’s purpose. Recently, she herself was inspired to share her delight in handcrafted beads, by opening her second CRAFTED business, Six Bad Cats! Rain explained the origin of that name, and talked about her adventures as a creative entrepreneur.
Continue reading → - Living Her Passion January 26, 2013
Fair warning: if you stop by Suzanne Colucci’s booth at CRAFTED, you may just fall in love.
For her small business, Belandaria Designs, Suzanne creates breathtaking jewelry, handcrafts beads, and does custom work. Suzanne shared the story of how she started Belandaria Designs–at a time when her then-career wasn’t challenging her creativity.
As we chatted at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, she also explained the origins of Belandaria’s name. We won’t spoil it–you’ll just have to listen!
Continue reading → - Beads, Fiber and Imagination January 22, 2013
CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles has just welcomed a brand-new member to their community!
Designer Michelle Waller, proprietor of Bohemian Rags, handcrafts beaded suede bags, fiber-art jewelry, hooked rugs…and creates cactus terrariums! Her background in clothing design stands her in good stead: each of her handcrafted shoulder bags can be described as one-of-a-kind wearable art.
Talented Michelle talked about her bestselling items, how she first started crafting, and her recent decision to pursue her dream of making a living with her creations.
Continue reading → - Blue-Ribbon Creativity January 11, 2013
About twenty years ago, fine artist Melissa Abercrombie began collecting medals. Today, she works them into her vintage jewelry business, Blue Ribbon Salvage.
Melissa says her creations play on an interest she developed during her growing-up years. “My grandmothers were both Catholic, and they would give me medals for different occasions,” she recalls. “I would wear (the medals) on chains, and it wasn’t a big leap to start doing a more ornate version of that.”
In her Blue Ribbon Salvage creations, Melissa specializes in pieces made with personal-merit medals–such as those awarded in athletic events. “I’m a cyclist, so I get a lot of bicycle-race ones.” Then, she can group related pieces together, add gemstones that match the hues of the medals, or pair them with a sterling or brass chain that matches the patina.
Continue reading → - Her “Spin” On Creativity November 19, 2012
For Miryha Runnerstrom, learning to knit was just the starting point.
Miryha’s small business, Blarney Yarn, specializes in handspun and hand-dyed yarns. Her Etsy shop features handpainted spinning fibers and yarns, in colors that could best be described as “luscious”. She also offers spinning kits (how’s that for a great gift for a crafter on your Christmas list?) and knitting patterns!
Miryha (pronounced Mariah) talked about her fiber art and her latest creations. Would you like to chat with her about yarns, spinning, knitting–and see some of her custom Blarney Yarn rovings firsthand? She’s exhibiting at the Third Annual Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Market, in Los Angeles, December 8th and 9th!
Continue reading → - Cutting-Edge Creativity November 13, 2012
Independent designer and woodworker Cameron Oehler says his business’s name is “kind of a nerd joke.”
“My company is called Leitmotif, and it’s spelled ‘1-3-3-7-m-o-t-i-f,’” he explains. “‘Leet” is from video games. It stands for ‘elite’, and ‘1-3-3-7’ kind of looks like ‘l-e-e-t’. It’s something you would say about yourself or someone else, playing video games.”
Quality is Cameron’s game when he creates his coasters, jewelry and cutting boards. His high standards come from his growing-up years, learning his craft. “My father has been a custom cabinetmaker for forty or fifty years,” Cameron says. “So I started doing woodworking as a summer job for him, throughout my childhood.”
From that woodworking background, Cameron branched off to create his original coasters, jewelry and cutting boards “four or five years ago.”
The board he’s displaying here is a fan patten he designed, and is made of walnut and maple. For Christmas 2012, Cameron says he hopes to have created some new art deco-patterned jewelry in ebony and brass.
Continue reading → - Putting the “Fun” in Feminine November 9, 2012
Twirling. Around and around, till your skirt whirls out, and the room spins when you stop. And when you do, you laugh and want to do it again.
That’s part of being a little girl…and part of the inspiration behind Shawna Dalton’s clothing designs!
Shawna realized that environmentally-friendly children’s clothing, designed with a spirit of play and fun, didn’t really exist–yet. So, she designed her Twirls and Twigs line!
When little girls wear Shawna’s Twirls and Twigs creations, no mom ever has to say, “Stop twirling around, you’ll tear your dress!” These are sturdy, yet beautiful clothes…that take the “play factor” into account.
Shawna talked about the origins of her small business, her Twirls and Twigs designs for Christmas 2012…and the ultimate compliment she receives, from the wearers of her dresses!
Continue reading → - An Artist With a Mission November 7, 2012
Deborah Selva is a jewelry designer who has always loved crafts. But she didn’t realize she was a mosaic artist–till less than a year ago!
When Debbie took a mosaic class, she discovered that she was a natural. Orders started pouring in for her work…and she wound up, as she says, “making money having fun” with her small business, The Jungle Bee!
But art is only one of Debbie’s passions. A mom and gifted teacher, she uses her creative talents to support her school, East Valley Academy, and to teach her students about entrepreneurship.
Continue reading → - Debbie Selva Interview, Part 2 November 7, 2012
- Color, Stitches and Joy November 5, 2012
When you hear the words “patchwork quilt”–what memories come to mind?
Whatever, or whoever, just crossed your mind…probably left you smiling. And that’s the feeling of warmth Patsy Johnson evokes, with her quilts and quilted tote bags, at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles.
Patsy’s artistry combines the quilting techniques she saw, growing up, with her love of innovation. As a member of the Modern Quilt Guild, she explores new ways of growing in her craft–including creating quilted covers for personal technology devices!
Patsy, who “escaped” a corporate career four years ago, talked about her creations and her new life of doing what she loves.
Continue reading → - Patsy Johnson Interview, Part 2 November 5, 2012
- Evoking the Past With Humor November 3, 2012
Deborah Ammar is having fun! And her compositions are likely to make you laugh, make you think and start conversations.
Deborah’s art form is “assemblage,” where she combines seemingly-unrelated elements in a theme-related. The results are intriguing, different and, in an unconventional way–beautiful.
During recent a visit at her new shop at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, Deborah talked about her work as an artist and some of her experiences as an entrepreneur with her small business, Heart of the Matter. Wait’ll you hear what she’s making for Christmas!
Continue reading → - Weaving the Colors of Festivity November 1, 2012
Fine-jewelry designer Tish Pollack loves sparkly things–and you will, too!
Tish incorporates beads, gems and semi-precious stones from all over the world into her unique necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Her small business, Diva Beads, is now one of the stores at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, in San Pedro.
Tish, who has a background as a makeup artist, uses her artist’s eye to create some amazing color combinations as she hand-weaves her necklaces, bracelets and earrings! And in addition to exhibiting her work, Tish also teaches classes. She did a “make-and-take” for CRAFTED’s recent Etsy party. If we’re very lucky, she might teach additional classes before Christmas (and Hanukkah) this year.
Meanwhile, when you visit Diva Beads at CRAFTED, be sure to look for Tish’s custom-made Christmas and Hanukkah designs. And if you have questions about Hanukkah, she can give you answers!
Continue reading → - A New Twist On Pie October 29, 2012
Who would have thought that pies could be small, cute and available on a stick?
Tonya Dooley did.
During a special occasion in her life, Tonya used her baking skills to create something unique for friends. And her inspiration led to her artisanal-baking small business, Cutie Pie That!
Continue reading → - Warmth and Humor in Wax October 27, 2012
Paoling Che is having fun! This exuberant candlemaker’s talents will probably make you laugh. Sure, she has standard handmade scented candles among her stock for her small business, Koko Candles–but wait till you hear what some of her specialties are! (Hint: she bills them as “candles for the nonboring!”)
For Christmas? You’ll just have to wait and be surprised–she’s developing a line of Halloween candles right now. We can’t wait to see what she comes up with, in terms of Christmas designs!
During our visit, Paoling talked about her craft, the origins of her small business and one of her most imaginative bestsellers! (Hint: If you thought a lump of coal was a funny gift, wait’ll you hear about the…no, we won’t give it away! You’ll just have to listen.)
Continue reading → - Multitalented: “Random Nicole” October 21, 2012
When does Nicole Stevenson sleep?!? She co-founded the Patchwork Indie Arts and Crafts Festival…created her own fashion, art and accessory line…teaches workshops…co-founded and coordinates the innovative yearly independent-business conference, “Craftcation,” with her aunt, Delilah Snell...and in her spare time, she’s working on her Master of Fine Arts in creative writing!
Noelophile™ asked her about her own art, which you’ll see in her design line, “Random Nicole.”
Continue reading → - Delicious Luxury: C Salt Gourmet October 18, 2012
For Courtney Dudman Donley, it all began with a Christmas gift.
According to Courtney’s C Salt Gourmet website, she first began crafting Christmas chocolates as gifts for friends and family. Her creations, complete with festive red cherries and green pistachio nuts, were a huge hit–and a small business was born.
Today, Courtney’s C Salt Gourmet includes hand-delivered truffles, pine-nut and pistachio brittle, and yes, her cherry-and-pistachio chocolate–which won an OC Weekly “Best Homemade Chocolate” award!
Continue reading → - With Bells On: SpokeN Wheel October 16, 2012
Where most of us see a bicycle–artist Sasha Jordan sees inspiration! Sasha handcrafts customized bike-based jewelry and bike accessories. One of the big sellers for Sasha’s design company, SpokeN Wheel, is her line of bike bells.
Sasha’s handcrafted bike bells range from whimsical (a cat with a moustache and mini-top hat, for example!) to elegant (gold with crystal). And she also creates jewelry from bike chains–as well as necklaces with a bicycle theme!
Continue reading → - Retro Creative:”Look Coy” October 15, 2012
Remember the timeless style of Audrey Hepburn…and your grandma, when she dressed up…and more recently, Kate Middleton? That’s what artist Alexandria Huggett evokes, with her handmade vintage jewelry and accessories! Alexandria designs her own jewelry and fascinators as part of her small business, “Look Coy.” You can see Alexandria’s work in her Etsy store.
And this peppermint-twist fascinator is only one of her Christmas designs. When we spoke at the Patchwork Indie Arts and Crafts Festival, her other one had already sold out–and she had some new designs forthcoming. (Please note–at the time of our conversation, it was only June!)
During our conversation, Alexandria shared one of the most unusual–and fun–Christmas memories we’ve ever heard. We won’t spoil it–you’re just going to have to listen!
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