Earlier this month I had the pleasure of hearing Jeffrey Bale speak about “Pleasure Gardens” and show an amazing slide show of some of his favorite gardens all over the world. The guy has it nailed. He works 8 months a year and travels for 4… yikes! I want his job! Have a look at his site… it’s AMAZING! Jeffery could make any garden look fantastic. Using high quality stone work, and pebble mosaics he transforms spaces into intricate gardens. After seeing some of his work, I was inspired to pull out my old “raku” tiles. I am going to finally find a use for them in the garden… stay tuned!
While I was in Brooklyn I picked up this old 1950′s Cub Printer. Every facet of this printer is awesome, from the small rubber letters, to the simple type work on the box and manual. I can’t wait to actually test this little machine and make something retro. Stay tuned for the results!
This last weekend I took some time off and attended a 3-day Monotype class. The class was taught by Amber George at the Atheneum in La Jolla. I literally was in heaven all weekend, the class was such an experimental treat. The whole technique of monotype is very hands on. It’s the perfect melding of painting, printmaking and illustration. Not only did I bring ideas to the class, but I was also inspired by Amber and all the participants. I left with a whole array of art pieces, collage materials and experimental prints. If you ever want to get your hands dirty, check out the Atheneum art classes. What a great weekend! I am pooped!!!
New York has the best and most interesting street art around, hands down. Just walking to the corner and back you get an eyeful of interesting paste ups, graffiti, and stencil art. My favorite piece was a little dog painted on a colorful wall, he was ready for anything. I love New York street art. Heck, I just love New York!
Spacecraft is a totally unique craft-making and supply boutique located on the south side of Williamsburg, NY. Dying to check this place out, I squeezed in a block printing class while I was in Brooklyn over the weekend. It was very easy to get creative in the unique storefront studio. Check out the great paper-mâché lamps… you know what I will be doing when I get home.
I love finding inspiration in unexpected places. The book “The Tulip“-by Anna Pavrod has lovely detailed images of tulips amidst the text. I used this book as reference to create delicate hand painted water color flowers. Someday I may read it, instead of just looking at all the great illustrations.
I stumbled upon this book at the library and had to buy it right away, “Print Workshop” by Christine Schmidt. I have many printmaking books, but this one is EXCELLENT. The book gives you a clear understanding of print techniques, materials needed, and ideas for projects. I am so anxious to try out all the techniques in the book, not just one or two.
Look at all the cool stuff we brought back from the Unique LA Indy design craft show! Stickers, screen prints, button, books, handmade apparel and ideas made its way back home with us.
It’s so fun getting all of the designers free stuff! See you all there next year!
House Industries that is. Last week was the opening show for Heath ceramics and acclaimed alphabet masters House Industries. Opening night was amazing, meeting the designers and getting screen printed bags from freshpressed! Check out the show it runs through December 31st, featuring products in clay, metal, ink, cotton, wood, lacquer, lithography and letterforms inside Heath Los Angeles. Be there or be square!
7525 Beverly Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90036
