Sharing a Slice of a Yummy Day!

Life is wonderful! I had a great day at school today. The kids were specially good and created beautiful work. I had my committee meeting and it went pretty well. Woo! Alexia had her guitar concert at Harding Fine Art and everyone sounded like heaven. It is an awesome program that they are growing at the school. WSe are very fortunate that she attends school there! For icing on this incredibly yummy cake, I get home and find out I was the winner of a drawing. I won a glorious enameled ring created by Danielle Embry, an artist whose work I absolutely love!
Danielle’s work has appeared in publishing such as Metalsmith, Exhibition in Print and 500 Enameled Objects. She uses natural objects as her inspiration, but her genius shows in her way of portraying them in contemporary designs. It is as though the eyes and mind dance between the familiar organic items that they’ve seen before and something that is alien or fantastical.
I wanted to share with you my great news! I love to hear yours.

X, CE

PS Visit Danielle's Etsy Shop. You will find one of a kind art that your loved ones would want to wear every day!

Tea & Gallery Talk at the JRB

Art & Culture Series at the JRB
Sunday, December 6, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm the JRB is hosting a TEA & GALLERY TALK
by Charleen Weidell & Barbara Broadwell
Professors of Art, University of Central Oklahoma
Curators of FUNCTIONAL & SCULPTURAL TEAPOTS exhibition.

I can't wait. All the "I have to's" will have to wait!

I hope to see all of you there!

Celebrating my 35th Birthday with Donald Longcrier

No, I did not really spend my birthday with Donald Longcrier, rather I spent some time celebrating by viewing his work. Let me explain.
This weekend was the weekend after my thirty-fifth birthday. Although the birthday itself was not the best, the weekend more than made up for it. I went to the Farmer’s Market and got an orchid-my favorite flowers. You can see them above. They are even more mesmerizing in person.

Then I snuck into the City Arts Center for the pottery sell at and got a few pieces that I had to come home with me. The prices that they had made me feel that I was almost pirating them. They are great pieces for which find a home around my home and can be added to other items in a still life painting I plan to start this coming weekend.

While at City Arts, I walked through Donald Longcrier's exhibit. It made up for all the events that went wrong on my birthday (starting with my car not wanting to start). It was one of the most peaceful experiences I have had in a long time. He has a talent for placing items in such a way, that even when I thought about the elements of danger in some of the components, I still felt safe and comfortable. There are metal balls that hang from thick ropes; rags that speak of his trade, items that I assume have been near flammable studio chemicals hang gently on a solid black background; along with a metal spike and ropes as thick as my arms are weaved together to form cloths that must weigh tons appear to be floating in the air. Still, I felt guarded.

His works honor the touch of time on strong craftsmanship. Each work is also a celebration in which Longcrier pays homage to the power of simplicity. In the midst of the holiday rush, visit his exhibit to find a bit of peace. Lose yourself in meditation while taking in this wonderful exhibit. I would show you photos of his work, but I saw photos of it before I saw the exhibit. The photos nowhere near the same experience. You have to see it in person.

Speaking of the stress of holiday shopping, you will find jewels in Oklahoma art and jewelry galleries. Consider visiting any one of the galleries for gifts for your loved ones. You will find items that will trigger thought, enhance homes, and last lifetimes. What store offers that?

About the gems I found: I recently discovered that I love green pottery. I have always noticed that I really like celadon green, but not like this. It is becoming an obsession I found out. After I came home with my great finds from City Arts, I placed them next other pottery that I purchased along Paseo…

The bowl is from Cynthia Wolf's gallery the vase is from Paseo Pottery

Despite the obsession, I did stray from my Celadon green by picking up one with a chestnut colored glaze that I love. I just noticed that my colors on the photos do not look at all as nice as the real colors of the glazes. I do believe it is time for a new camera--Oh, Santa Dear. Wink, wink.

The word of the week is "Vicissitude"!

Kim Camp Bird Man

Kim Camp ToothFairy


Michi Susan Through the Window

Michi Susan Tea Ceremony
"Vicissitude" is the word that started our professional development on expanding our student’s vocabulary. I thought that is title for my blog post for that week. Good or bad there were more unexpected things than those that were expected.
It started with a small car accident, doctor’s appointments, and a couple of school happenings that I was not awaiting. That is the bad. The good was that on our way to the OSU-Okc Farmers Market, we stopped by the City Arts Center to see the work of Kate Rivers and Barbara Robinette Moss.

The better news is that Ezri and I were invited to the Artist Talk. It was very interesting. Kate Rivers walked us through her creative process. She spoke of the story behind some of her works and how she gathers inspiration.
We also heard Narciso Arguelles and Cassandra Wozniak speak. One day I will share my thoughts on that. Today we will stick to the optimistic happenings.
Aside from getting to hear the artists speak, Ezri and I were both extremely pleased to see Kim Camp and Michi Susan there. We are both big fans of their work. Ezri couldn’t resist asking for a picture. She was so excited. We love going to the JRB Art Gallery to see both their works. They make us so very happy. I hope to one day have at least one of each of their works in my home. I would even share with Ezri.

If I were a writer, I would make up fabulous stories to go with the characters that Kim creates. I admire her courage to go against the grain and use clay and color in an unconventional way in order to get those bright colors and details that finish the work perfectly.

Oh, I also got a little time to visit Sheridan’s gallery. She was so kind to request to exhibit some of my jewelry. I have the honor of having my work alongside some great metalsmiths. One of these artists is Elyse Bogart from Norman. She creates incredible landscapes with a collection of stones and precious metals. How lucky am I?!
I also took a short trip to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art to view their The Dutch Italianates: 17th-century Masterpieces exhibit. It is a breathtaking experience. I will have to go back and take time to really take it all in.

Wow, the arts are flourishing in Oklahoma! Where shall I find the time for it all?
So, I thought I would share some more fantastic art that is created by our talented Oklahoma artists. I hope that you will take some time and support the arts in Oklahoma. There is art for all interests. I am sure you will find some work that will enrich your life in many ways.

The following is from ART SPLASH:

34th Annual Paseo Arts Festival
Call for Entries http://www.thepaseo.com/ for entry form. Deadline is February 1, 2010.

Auditions at Heller in Tulsa at its new location for Bricks, by Ron Radice, Saturday, Nov. 7 at 3:00 pm. Needed are: one woman, aged 30-60; two men, aged 30-60. Performances are Jan. 22-23, 28-30 at 8:00 pm, and Sunday, Jan. 31 at 2:00 pm. Heller Theatre is located at 4825 S. Quaker. Call 746-5065 http://exchange.otrd.state.ok.us/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.hellertheatre.com/.

Auditions in Muskogee
Muskogee Little Theatre recently announced its upcoming holiday production will be "Miracle on 34th Street". Auditions for the show will be October 25th and 26th at 7:00 p.m. Production dates are December 4-12. The cast calls for 10 men, 10 women, and 10 youth roles. For additional information and to download an audition form, visit http://www.muskogeelittletheatre.com/.

Tulsa’s Clark Youth Theatre announces auditions for the musical "Annie Get Your Gun." Auditions are Saturday, November 14th at 3:00 pm. All students aged 18 and younger are welcome to audition. Those auditioning will be required to sing 16 bars of song and do cold readings from the script. Performances are February 19-20 and 25-27 at 7:30 pm and February 21 and 28 at 2:00 pm. For more information, call or visit our website at http://exchange.otrd.state.ok.us/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.clarktheatre.com/.
BACP Auditions For “Crimes of the Heart”
information, call 918-258-0077 or email bacptheatre@aol.com. Audition forms are available at http://www.bacptheatre.com/. The BACP is located in The Main Place at 1800 S. Main in downtown Broken Arrow.
Gallery Taking Work http://www.thegalleryonsixth.com/ looking for artisans and craftspeople to “join us and help us make this a great holiday season.” in ceramics, glass, fiber, wood, metal, photography, painting and other media. Contact Michael Benton at Michael@thegalleryonsixth.

Magazine Focuses on Arts and Events in Southwest Oklahoma
OKIE Magazine has a strong focus on the arts and entertainment, including a featured band/ artist and a calendar of events each issue. Submit your events and/or calls for submissions by the 20th of each month or e-mail them to editor@okiemagazine.com from artists, bands, authors and other talents with Oklahoma roots. OKIE Magazine, PO BOX 7953, Lawton 73506, Hit us up on okiemagazine.com, facebook.com/okiemagazine, twitter.com/okiemagazine. 580-536-9500.

Patriotic Quilts Wanted
Attention all fiber artists, 22"x22" patriotic quilts are still being accepted for the God Bless America Touring Quilts Exhibits that are criss-crossing America for four years to thank our troops and inspire love of God and country. All profits from the $100 exhibit rental fees go to non-profit groups that make quilts for wounded soldiers. http://exchange.otrd.state.ok.us/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.HeavenlyPatchwork.com for entry form and quilt photos.

The Oklahoma Institute for Ceramic Arts, Inc. is looking for Oklahoma ceramic/pottery artists, send information in for an Oklahoma Potters Directory to OICA, PO Box 303, Mounds OK 74047 or email PotteryMuseum@aol.com.

Be sure to send your events in for the Red River Magazine Calendar of Events two months prior to the event date to becky@redriverfamily.com.

smART Show
Small, Original Work for the Beginning Collector show running January 1-30, 2010 at Paseo Art Space, 3022 Paseo, Oklahoma City. Artists in Oklahoma 18 years and older are eligible for this juried show. It is open to all 2D and 3D work of any media. The size limitation is 10 inches in any direction. For more information, email or call the Paseo Arts Association at contact@thepaseo.com or 405-525-2688.

Don't Forget the Girlie Show

Dia de los Muertos

My students have done a beautiful sculpture (photo above) for El Dia de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead). It has painted paper mache skulls with tissue paper marigolds and other flowers.

In Mexico, in other Latin countries and now, in some parts of the United States, people remember and celebrate the life of their loved ones that have past away--November 2nd and 3rd. The celebration includes music, dance, and visual arts.

Photos from other schools are below. Enjoy!

The work above was created by a senior in one of our high schools. Her ceramic sculptures were oohed and ahhed by all. It was brilliant, festive, and perfect for the celebration. I hope to see more of her work in the future.

Our Day of the Dead Sculpture along with other fabulous works from students throughout the Oklahoma City Public schools is being exhibited at the Gold Dome in Oklahoma City (1112 NW 23rd St.). The gallery is open to the public. I hope you will go by and view the works.

Edmond Art Association in Crisis!

If volunteers are not found to fill open board positions, the current board will dissolve. The association and all assets will be disposed of according to the by-laws. I urge you to donate a small amount of your time each month so that this organization that has been in existence for over thirty years can continue. If you feel that art is an important part of our community, give some of your time. Below is a list of the open opportunities. If you are uncomfortable taking on a position by yourself, ask a friend to share one with you. Monday, October 26 is the night we vote on a new board for next year; please contact me before then if you can give a little of yourself for art. If we all work together, we will have a vibrant and active organization for many years to come.
Please contact Tena Chiarchiaro at 503-6072 or tchiaro@cox.net

Call for Volunteers
Vacancies for EAA Board Positions are President , Vice President, Program Chairman, Fall Show Chairman, Spring Show Chairman, Secretary, Publicity Chairman, Web Site Chairman and Hospitality Chairman.
EAA is in desperate need of a President, someone with a passion and a desire to encourage art in the Edmond Community.

A Vice President is needed to assist the President and support the EAA programs.

There will be no Programs if EAA is not able to interest a Program Chairman who will invite professional artists to demonstrate their skills and techniques for the EAA monthly members' meetings.

There will be no more Outdoor or Indoor Art Shows sponsored by EAA if these chair positions are not filled.
A Secretary records the minutes of each EAA Board Meeting and this position is vacant.
A Publicity Chairman makes sure EAA activities receive radio and newspaper coverage.

A Web Site Chairman keeps the EAA web site updated. The web site is seen world wide.
EAA has volunteers for the positions of Exhibitions, Historian, Member-at-Large, Membership, Newsletter, and Hospitality. However, without a President, a Vice President, a Program Chairman, 2 Show Chairmen, a Secretary, a Publicity Chairman, and a Web Site Chairman, EAA will no longer be an organization. October 26 is voting time for new board members and so far only a few positions are filled. If others do not volunteer, EAA will dissolve and no longer exist. Please call Tena to offer your support and assistance at 405.503.6072. Let's make this a great year for the Edmond Art community.

About Teaching and Learning at the Same Time

Peonies with Sliced Apple, by Carla Anglada

I have started teaching middle school art. My classes are full of characters that give me many stories to tell (with no names, of course). I absolutely love it and can’t wait to share with them what I know.
Oh, if you have any great lesson or project ideas, please, send them my way.
At this time, all my students are working on one sculpture for El Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Each class is creating a part of the sculpture of paper mache skulls and color tissue paper flowers. It will be part of an exhibit at the Gold Dome in Oklahoma City starting October 22nd. I hope you come to see it. I will post more details of the event later.

Because I am a new teacher, I have lots of catch-up work to do. This has limited my painting time to almost zero. But now that I am getting a tad bit more comfortable, I look forward to learning from an artist whose work I have admired since I walked into the JRB and spotted one of her 8”x10” master paintings that seemed to light the wall on which it hung.
Carla Anglada is inspired by chiaroscuro artists such as Artemesia Gentileschi and Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. This admiration is apparent in her work which shows the richness and depth of the chiaroscuro style.

Lirios de Taos, by Carla Anglada

About the learning part: I cannot sleep waiting to attend an oil painting workshop given by Carla at the beginning of October. Please, let me know if you would also like to attend.


The Orange, by Carla Anglada

Below is some information taken from her bio on the JRB website. You can view more of her light filled work on the JRB website or the Brazos Fine Art Gallery in Taos, New Mexico, but I suggest you visit either gallery in person and experience for yourself the warm glow emitted by her work.

This native of Nevada, moved to Oklahoma City where she attended Oklahoma City University and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts. She then moved to Taos studied at the University of New Mexico, the Taos Institute of Arts and the Fechin Institute. Carla has studied with several master artists including David Leffel, Michelle Cooke, Sherrie McGraw, and forensic artist, Betty Pat Gatliff. For two years, she worked extensively with Louis Tedesco in his studio, learning about the Chiaroscuro method used by Rembrandt, Artemesia Gentileschi, and Caravaggio.

Anglada’s work can be found in private collections in Washington, DC, Florida, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and New York. Her work has been featured in the Individual Artists of Oklahoma Three Women Show, the St. Michaels Art Exhibition, the Clinton Art Exhibition, and the Contemporary Art Gallery Spring Show. She received the Oklahoma Art Guild Annual Spring Show Award in 2003 and the Chardin Award from the Guild’s 2003 Annual Fall Show.

OVAC Art and Opportunity

So I am taking the lazy way of informing you of the wonderful things happening through OVAC:
Workshop: Dreaming Big: Public Art
http://www.artistsurvivalkit.org/
Cost: $10 ($5 for OVAC Members)
OVAC in partnership with Oklahoma Art in Public Places, presents two workshops to answer questions and help artists prepare to apply for the Public Art Mentorship (see below). Workshops are open to all artists who are interested in public art. Hear from Stan Carroll, an artist experienced in making large-scale artwork, as well as Debby Williams, Director of Oklahoma Art in Public Places.
August 22; 1-4pm – Harwelden Mansion, 2210 S Main, Tulsa
August 29; 1-4 pm – OK History Center, 2401 N Laird Ave, OKC

Workshop: Artist Proposal Writing Workshop (Art 365 & Momentum Spotlight)
http://www.artistsurvivalkit.org/
Cost: $10 ($5 for OVAC Members)
Learn the basics of writing a project proposal. Proposal deadlines are approaching for Art 365 and Momentum Spotlight. Both require the same materials – description of project, images, artist statement and resume. Past Art 365 artist Liz Roth will offer tips about what makes a successful project proposal and an OVAC representative will answer questions about Art 365 and Momentum Spotlight.
Sept.10, 6-8pm – Tulsa Artists Coalition Gallery, 9 E Brady, Tulsa
Sept. 15, 6-8pm – IAO Gallery, 706 W Sheridan Ave, OKC

Public Art Mentorship http://www.okpublicart.org/
Deadline: September 18, 2009 Commissions: Total of $75,000
Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition, in partnership with Oklahoma Art in Public Places, presents the Public Art Mentorship to provide technical assistance to Oklahoma artists who don’t have experience participating in a public art/percent for art project. Seeking three artists without public art experience to create commissioned sculptures with assistance of an experienced mentor.

Momentum Tulsa: Art Doesn’t Stand Still
http://www.momentumoklahoma.org/
Deadline: September 26-27, 2009
Awards: Over $1,000 in cash prizes
OVAC is seeking Oklahoma artists ages 30 and younger to exhibit their work in a fun and exciting atmosphere featuring interactive art and live bands. Momentum Tulsa will be held October 10, 2009 at Living Arts, 307 E. Brady in Tulsa. Open to all media including 2D, 3D, performance, film and installation.

Oklahoma Art Writing & Curatorial Fellowship
http://www.ovac-ok.org/
Deadline: October 1
The Oklahoma Art Writing & Curatorial Fellowship aims to train promising writers and curators by expanding their professional education and experience. This distinctive, yearlong program awards 12 fellows the opportunity to participate in a structured and innovative curriculum designed to encourage new writing and curatorial projects. Led by nationally-recognized mentors, the 12 Fellows will receive feedback and will connect to current dialogues in art. Applicants must live within 350 miles of Oklahoma City. Undergraduate students may not apply.

OVAC Grants for Artists http://www.ovac-ok.org/
Deadline: October 15, 2009 (quarterly deadlines)
Awards: $15,000 annually
Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition Grants for Artists fund key points in artists’ careers such as project start-up funds, working with the community and continuing their training.

Art 365 http://www.art365.org/
Deadline: October 16, 2009
Awards: $60,000 (Five awards of $12,000 each.)
Art 365 is an exhibition for Oklahoma artists to create innovative artwork in collaboration with a nationally recognized curator. Artists will work with the guest curator to create a body of original work for a major exhibition, opening in March 2011. Visual artists working in all media are eligible to submit, including traditional studio art media as well as film and new media.

For more information: http://www.ovac-ok.org/ or 405-879-2400.

Alexia's Quiceañera

I thought that I would let you know what I have been up to. These are party favors. My intention is to incorporate traditional latin traditions with other things that we so much heart.
I loved these silk fans. At first I thought they were paper, and that is why I wanted to paint the flowers on them. I am glad they are not paper because I had a hard time with the paint spreading. It would have been worse if they had been paper. I am still very pleased with them.



I made 100 of these cones (with Ezri and Alexia's help), but it is the letters that is taking me longer than I expected. I like that they are all different, though. They look a little brighter in real life.


This is my beautiful niece, Zinnia. She did not want to take the photo since she had just woken up after staying up all night talking and laughing with Alexia. She cannot take a bad photo, no matter how little sleep she's had.
There are six green dresses for the damas, they play the role of bride's maids, for the Quiceañera. Now I have to start on Alexias dress.

This is the back of the dress. The brouche is one of the ones I found in an antique shop in Bethany, OK. At first I wanted the bow in the front, but they carry a small bouquet, so the bow would be hidden there would be nothing in the back. I will have to show you pictures of the party.