tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13126620215582747462024-02-02T10:56:15.856-08:00Tigersmoon CentralTigersmoon Design. A place for creative and one of a Kind Items made by hand.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-31450539279258648522017-09-24T03:25:00.000-07:002017-09-24T03:25:06.776-07:00Festivals and what they can really mean.When everyone thinks of an art festival many think of it as a place to sell your work. This is true, for many it is their main way to offer their work to the world and bring in an income. They are hard work and take a great deal of time but for many they are work the sweat and tears.<br />
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However for me at least I also try to use it for other needs in my life as an artist. Over the years I have made contacts of all types through the shows. I have met artist, made friends, and been introduced to customers. These are golden gifts I treasure. Every person has a story and something to offer, even if it is only a chance for me to make them smile or them to do the same for me.<br />
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At festivals I have met Senators, Actors, Artists I love, old friends and teachers I lost track of, and CEO's. The Art festival is often a magical time when politics, religion, or other factors can be set aside for the enjoyment of Art and a fine day with friends and neighbors. I like this. <br />
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I talk to people see what they like and dislike, not only of my own work but over all. I learn about people as a whole. As such I learn my Audience, my community, and about myself.<br />
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I also try to demo or educate people about my work or the work of those that came before me. Most do not know the history of ceramics or of set types of objects so this gives them a connection to them. Often I get to see interest and curiosity grow and I know that they want to learn more. So when I have the chance to plant a seed in someone for the search of knowledge I am exited.<br />
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All of these things are not why I make my art to start with. But I do find that they are a factor in what inspire me. Because once I get home, often before I am even rested up I am itching to create new things. Not just because I have to replace what was sold but because a person's story triggered an idea or challenge.<br />
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For me a festival is a hotbed of inspiration, not from other artists but from the visitors and people that I meet.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-39680650484657339982017-08-10T04:27:00.000-07:002017-08-10T04:27:04.096-07:00Fire can damage or create.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Like many things in this world fire (one of the oldest technologies) can be both a destructive force or a creative one. Every Potter has a love hate relationship with this. None more so then Raku Artists. All pottery must go through the firing processes. This is a traumatic time for every pieces with most making the transition from green-ware to bisque and eventually finished with no problem. Though some have issues or shatter along the way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguWdc1UrmbeDhpCKKyaFIqhObysNhIyrunvqy2JeyG13bgNoN56gjTP9fZ_SjOCtu6eSr3NZp232DgSsl_qbn45_TrtwgJELvgenpQKIxnhevHzwLHTnPTs86vvtChZ37x7Ya3j6uiuW-T/s1600/20637883_1381385645249608_4140312341552304737_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguWdc1UrmbeDhpCKKyaFIqhObysNhIyrunvqy2JeyG13bgNoN56gjTP9fZ_SjOCtu6eSr3NZp232DgSsl_qbn45_TrtwgJELvgenpQKIxnhevHzwLHTnPTs86vvtChZ37x7Ya3j6uiuW-T/s320/20637883_1381385645249608_4140312341552304737_n.jpg" width="213" /></a>With Raku the bisque stage is just the start. Once this happens the artist will decorate the surface and place the piece back into a kiln. However rather then slow heat and cooling the pot is heated rather quickly (often 10-20 min rather then hours) and then snatched out of the still orange/tinted kiln with tongs. It is then either placed in a bin of combustibles and suffocated, or has these combustibles drizzled or poured on it. Many pieces can not withstand this drastic technique, with cracking, chipping, and colors going wrong.<br />
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But when the process goes right the effect is magnificent.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-9998059727788554102017-04-12T12:43:00.002-07:002017-04-12T12:43:55.848-07:00Artist can Sell A Place!<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When one works and lives art you sometimes start to blend in so much you forget to look at the big picture. While at the same time if you are not part of the art community you may not know how this group of people in every area has a key role to play for the community and often the economy.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Art is Culture, weather the art is your area is Fine Art exclusively or Craft and Outsider Art exclusive or a wonderful blend of all, the culture of a town and the people in it is often expressed in the art. Does your area have a Community Theater? Do they hold Art festivals, Art or Studio Crawls? How many galleries or museums are in a quick drive from you?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">These are all things that contribute a great deal to how a community, or neighborhood is seen. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">An example of this is the area in Charlotte NC I spent a great deal of time in while in School at UNCC and after when working. This area was known a NODA or North Davidson. This area had once been Mill Worker homes, that later were left to fall into disrepair and gained a very bad reputation as a Slums. While a YMCA was in the neighborhood the mills had closed and the area became to poor to stay in repair. However this low rent district became a great place for poor artists, students and gallery owners to rent or buy to renovate. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As a group the artists began hosting monthly studio and gallery crawls with artists working out of doors and rental studios being available and showcasing upcoming artists. Close to downtown this area was great for University students and higher class alike however the draw to the area was the art. This became so great a draw new apartments were going up, and the mill houses started to increase in value, so fast artists were no longer able to afford to live or work in this district. Oddly they had worked themselves out of real estate.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now these displaced artists and galleries have moved to other lower rent and “underserved” areas only to see the same effect happening again.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So while not everyone may be interested in the Trendy shops and galleries please remember these places and Artists have a key role if done right in building back rundown communities. </span></div>
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just remember Trendy Sells, and Art is Trend.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-48578923757399535722016-12-15T09:44:00.001-08:002016-12-15T09:44:10.508-08:00Holidays for an ArtistFrom November- the end of Dec we often think of gift giving and family time. These are wonderful things to remember and be happy to share with others. However if you are an artist this time of year may have extra aspects to it. We still look forward so giving to our friends and family, though we may have mixed feelings about giving our own works. For some it is we love to give and are exited to share what we make. For some it is wondering if we should give our work to this person again this year or try for something different. For others we wonder if our work will be taken at it's true value if the recipient is not an art lover and sees it more as a Homemade gift rather then a piece of art (my worst fear).<br />
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However we still share, we give and we make sure that our hearts are in every gift we give. Artists are business owners, we work hard and make things that mean something to us. We hope we can share those feelings with others. So the Holidays is a time to express ourselves through work. However for many it is also our busiest time of the year.<br />
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While our own gifts may have a decisions on we are happy to help others with their holiday shopping. Though artists most likely have started months before hand to make sure they have the items they will need to do this. So it is not only a busy time for sales it is the deadline for many to have their works being made. Also rush orders for that special someone's custom piece may or may not be an option and depends on the artist.<br />
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We rush to make peoples holidays filled with art and good service. This is how many artists work in the holidays. However there is one thing that should be remembered. It does not matter if it is a painting, photograph, ceramics, or any other, all art is unique to the artist. It is part of them. So the holidays is not just for giving gifts, but is an opportunity to share someones love.<br />
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Before you go to a box store for that office gift, look for local artists works instead.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-51378705301663926132016-11-10T10:20:00.000-08:002016-11-10T10:24:28.113-08:00AgrilIn less then a week I am exited to say I will have my first Solo Exhibition as a "Proffestional Artist". I am exited beyond words but am also ready to see then work up and finished. However perhaps the one thing that is still and will always be fun for me is educating people.<br />
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I have named my exhibition "Argil". What does this mean. It is an Old English word meaning clay, or more sacrificially Potters Clay. Aside from the Duhhhh moment of well yeah it is a ceramics show why did i choose this? History!<br />
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For me ceramics is more then an art form. It is history being contemporary in creation or prehistoric. While technology has changed, as has our needs and motivations some things are no different from the first craftsman to heat clay until it turned to stone. Clay is still a material of many moods, visceral or forgiving, pliant or demanding. It requires work, time, skill and love to make pieces that are successful, be it in an pit fire or a computerized kiln all require skill and craftsmanship.<br />
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My interest in history has been a key factor in this project. Items that were the building blocks of culture were not always those made of gold or written in history books. But practical items that let people move from one technological lever to another. Storage vessels allowed mankind to move from hunter gathering to farming as storage would allow you to keep crops through off seasons. Yet other types of these vessels would allow long distance travel of materials that would otherwise spill or leak like wine, oil, and other liquid or granular products, as the inspirations for my amphora were. They allowed trade over the sea and river with their unique shape and function. This not only was a useful economic but also cultural and historical factor as it was a time for different groups of people to interact through trade of goods and ideas.<br />
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So when I see ceramic art of today. I see the idea the artist is trying to show however I also see the centuries and cultures that have been touched by the most humble and yet powerful materials on earth with its transition from soil and organic material to clay, to later stone.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-61096356690394745892015-12-29T03:48:00.002-08:002015-12-29T03:48:29.150-08:00Inspiration in damaged beautyThings move in many ways, and inspiration is just another that does so. After leaving school I found that I worked almost 100% in function ware for some time only recently moving to decorative pieces again even though they were pottery rather then sculpture as was my former love. However after a bit of inspiration again I have found the interest to bridge the gap again and explore both pottery and Sculpture again. While also working with some mixed media elements at the same time. <div>
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While I still work with the form I have been drawn to Asian techniques and forms for some time. This simplicity gave me an outlet for creativity yet contemplation of form. Though while researching I found myself stumbling repeatedly on a technique i have seen often in Asian works.</div>
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(Japanese: Golden Journey)</div>
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This technique is the process of repairing pottery but rather then trying to downplay the damage the repair work is highlighted in gold, or another precious metal. This often takes a simple form and makes it even more beautiful. Not only because the lines are aesthetic but it shows that care was given to the piece. Rather then disposing of a broken pot someone cared enough to repair it and using gold to do so.</div>
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We all are made up of many things, though the ones that make us who we are the most tend to be the things that we think of as mistakes. Things that have damaged our pride, spirit or body. But these are also the thing that make us strong and thereby let our true self and beauty show. Clay may be beautiful when on the potters wheel but it must go through fire before it becomes strong enough to withstand the it's surroundings.</div>
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This is what has inspired my new body of work. I will be working first with human faces, then expanding though while i am not using the same techniques as Kintsugi rather then using Lacquer I have experimented with casting the metal into my work and am also looking to other methods of using sterling silver and other metals. While only one mixed media piece has been completed others are in the works and hope to soon be added to my gallery. While the first is scheduled to debut in a few days in a local juries show.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-27813829348142179202015-04-15T02:30:00.000-07:002015-04-15T02:30:00.440-07:00Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-90379137482599671422015-04-15T02:25:00.003-07:002015-04-15T02:25:59.961-07:00Flames and Flowers on the Brain.There are times when obsession is the name of the game, how do you know if you are at that point? If you are like me it is when you wake at night from dreams of that topic still bouncing around in you head. Of late this has been the case for two topics. One is Flowers, not ceramic blooms but rather the containers for set plants. I have found a great interest involving Orchids in the last few years, this includes the advantages of the proper container for them to live in. So I have started making a number of bowls and pots designed for these odd yeah beautiful plants. <div>
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I am far from an expert on these lovely plants however I have come to enjoy the connection between ceramics and horticulture a bit more. With the right vessel orchids an thrive, and avoid many problems such as fungal issues and over/under watering. So I have been working to make a collection of these vessels to see if i can master at lease one aspect of their care. The POT.</div>
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However in my quest for the ideal orchid pot I also came across another interest I have had and that is the firing technique called raku. This method of firing pottery comes from Asia centuries in the past, however in to 1900's was made popular here in the US. There is much misunderstanding involving this glazing/firing method even I had a few bits of misinformation until a recent class about this. </div>
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What is RAKU, it is a process of heating your pottery to a set temperature, often between 1500 and 1800 degrees Fahrenheit or 815-982 degrees Celsius. Often this is judged by the visual cues to the heat (color and texture of the pieces in the peep whole). Once the pots are at the desired temperature you remove them (still at max temp) with tongs from the kiln, and place them either in a reduction such as a metal can with flammable materials, or set it to the side and manual add the organic materials to it, such as horse hair. Once cooled enough the piece can then be quenched in water is cooling speed in needed.</div>
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There are many pros and cons to the Raku method. If your pots are not prepped just right your pieces can explode either in the heating process or cooling due to thermal shock. Also these pieces are not considered wet Food safe as they are are still porous and may retain bacteria. Though this is a challenge Raku pottery has been used in many Asian cultures Tea Ceremonies for centuries. So set care is required in these situations. The advantages over more common glaze fires is the speed and often cost involved with this method. a raku firing load tends to last 30 min to an hour from start to finish, rather then as much as a few days for heating and cooling of regular kilns. This makes Raku more instant gratification. Also because of this the cost of each firing in minimal in comparison to most other types. While only an handful of pieces are normally fired at a time, multiple batches can be fired in a few hours meaning more pieces can be completed with same amount or less fuel.</div>
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With these thing in my head I have been thinking of event more pieces in addition to m orchid pots that I could make . So many choices so little time.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-82701610470337870482014-10-24T03:57:00.002-07:002014-10-24T03:57:39.298-07:00Art is LoveWe all have moments of enlightenment, some more profound then others. I suppose once again I have had one as a means to describe a true artist. This has always been a problem for me, how to get others to understand the mindset of a artist, and their passion.<br />
<br />I blame my sister for this predawn inspiration, once again she send me a video of some amazing Korean Potters doing their work, and the Love they had for their work was just as beautiful as their piece it's self. I know that feeling, I saw it in and wanted to run to get my hands in my own clay.<br />
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Art is a form of love, artist share with the world. Love for their Subject, their medium, the technique. However those passions are constant, many think of it as a drug in the system we always need more. However there is something I find only in True artists that make them shine when they are working, a type of love i have only ever seen in one other type of persons face. The parent of a newborn/child.<br />
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You see in the creation of a piece of art we are parents. We start with a simple act, for painters it's prepping a canvas, woodworkers it's cutting wood to size, for us potters it is wedging our clay. For me this like the moment of conception in a way. It has it's own quiet (sometimes not so quiet) beauty, in the act itself, the starting of a creation, all possibility.<br />
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Next the painter will make that first stroke, carvers that first cut, or myself that first touch to center the clay on the wheel. These are nearly all foundation acts, the paint stroke will most likely be covered, the cut will be replaced with a deeper one, and the clay will be formed, but these are the building blocks, the first touch of love we give our work. For many it is both daunting and exiting when we think about it, like a parent waiting for a newborn to arrive, not even knowing if it is a boy or girl. We know we want it to be a general form (like having 10 toes 10 fingers) however it's personality has yet to show itself.<br />
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We then start the hard part, of forming and working with our material. For clay pushing, pulling, smoothing, and strengthening. We put our heart in the piece, not for the later viewer, not for our clients or buyers. We do it for the pot, for ourselves, to put a small part of us into something that will go on and become something else. <br />
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For a potter the shaping is only the early stages. We then have to wait, almost let the piece grow, to fit into it's own skin. I imagine it is must like a parent watching their gangling teen learn who they are through puberty, hard not to step in now and then, but we have to let time do it's thing. Though we do step in, once they are strong enough to withstand some work we turn and flip the pot to carve it. We remove excess, add texture. As parents do when forwarding the education of their children, and teaching then values of the world, It refines, polishes and improves the art through guidance and care.<br />
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Then like a parent we have to let the one we made go through a series of hardships and trial by fire. The type of hardship and treatment making a difference to every individual. It is not easy for a parent or an artist to watch or wait for this trial to end. There could be tragedy, or unexpected complications, there could be loss or surprising wonderful outcomes. No mater, once the experience is over those that come through the other end of the process are stronger by far, and brilliant with their own light and colors that would never have been seen without the ordeal. They can withstand heat, and water, time and are far stronger then they may appear.<br />
<br />As artists we have pride in out creations, sad for those that do not make the full transformation. We as artists make the change with them often, and see things we can learn from often, however we have a soul of out heart in each one.<br />
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When I give or sell a piece of my work to someone I am not only giving them a piece of potter. I am offering them my child. Like a father at the alter giving his daughter away to her new life. I hope they care for it, and treat it well. I know they will never fully know all that I have put into every form I create, they will never love it as I do. Though like a parent I know it must go on to the next stage of it's life, and not be held away from the world for my own reasons.<br />
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There are moments for shear pride however, when we see our creations, perhaps by chance in a place of honor, on display or as an item of treasure. In these moments I know a pride not in just myself but in the piece I see for what it has become.<br />
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That is the Love of an Artist.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-82622529734029141222014-10-04T05:13:00.002-07:002014-10-04T05:13:17.760-07:00Glazes for all<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.tigersmoon.com/glaze--clay-recipes.html">Free Glaze Database with Thousands of Recipes</a></div>
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There are few things that are a given in the world of art, however one has always been the case. Clay and Glazes are the lifeblood of pottery. Talent and vision are the body of this art, however clay and glazes are the thing that runs in all potters. I myself have found that over the years I love the making and altering of glazes to meet my needs far more fulfilling and economical then using commercial glazes and clays. Having studied a good amount under wonderful professors in school and later on my own I decided it was time to make something I saw the world was missing. </div>
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For years ceramic artists have been able to find recipes in magazines here and there, books and now on the internet. However I had yet to find a database that held more then a handful of recipes that were free to all.</div>
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True each potter has their own magic and personal recipes (I know I do) however I wanted to have a foundation for all to share knowledge and be able to experiment. </div>
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For the last 14+ years I have been collecting recipes for clays, glazes, and other useful materials. I would like to officially introduce this database. Though I one day hope to make it part of it's own website at this time it is found on my own, and add photos soon. Until this point I can only add links to images. Yet all of that is on it's way.</div>
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I would like to welcome all glaze and clay makers to see what I have collected over the years and try out a few recipes. Note many of these are Very old, not all are food safe however I would not like to see these recipes disappear. Too many techniques slip away due to disuse so I did not discriminate.</div>
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Also note I have not made all of these, only a small percentage. I will not ask any subscriptions for this database or fees though would love for artists to share their samples via photos. I will link to your image on the recipe and credit the artist with their name or web address.</div>
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At this time I have a large portion of my collection posted online, though I am adding often, and would again be happy to add any recipes and the name/website of those that send a new one to me. So far over 1200 glazes and variations are posted along with hundreds of Clay Slip and other Recipes. This is based in Google Drive at this time for the ability of all to see it free with minimal software issues.</div>
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<a href="http://www.tigersmoon.com/glaze--clay-recipes.html">Click Here to see the Database Now</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FC949WLb07fVD5RwUUqDsb2ynWi8Er-i6-0LcgOUcCIzcBXzyrOP_GKOdDiPkUlQoSrmyTJvNMHawFdB_bg-sxvVAhHg0PRy98_L1i4PlthBvneDTfu6MgrJVhyphenhyphenIDSUb8w1-8Ju7c8FB/s1600/blue+texture+oil+lamp+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FC949WLb07fVD5RwUUqDsb2ynWi8Er-i6-0LcgOUcCIzcBXzyrOP_GKOdDiPkUlQoSrmyTJvNMHawFdB_bg-sxvVAhHg0PRy98_L1i4PlthBvneDTfu6MgrJVhyphenhyphenIDSUb8w1-8Ju7c8FB/s1600/blue+texture+oil+lamp+4.jpg" height="200" width="184" /></a><a href="http://www.tigersmoon.com/glaze--clay-recipes.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JlLsQbV06RaVr_5UvHbuRySAnqfTsH0kFv0d0feV5kqvljQ_o34-OC9fv99g2I677LiiOH_Hv9A_cnfqahTOaKyCwWqOEvz69yLZYF_fHAzcq1gQF-4hnKBKd3XtkBeCmVd352T_WIUw/s1600/4+globes+Salt+Shaker+set+2.jpg" height="137" width="200" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-59004147768134457232014-04-20T05:49:00.001-07:002014-04-20T05:49:44.400-07:00Festival Time! Socialize and Share!Yes the time of year is here that I am always exited about.<br />
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Festivals and Shows are nearly every weekend again and that means Fun for me. It also means I get to meet more of my fellow artists including potters. While I many not always fit in with my normal Ceramics crowd I am always happy to meed and get to know those in the area, and those from out of town.<br />
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Each person I meet I feel adds to a bit of my art be it from inspiration of their work or their spirit. For example this past weekend I had a good time at a local event that allowed me to spend time with one potter a Crystal/Jewelry artists and a number of Wood Workers that inspired me to new heights.<br />
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My Ceramics friend was local as well, though our paths had yet to cross. He too makes his own glazes and we exchanged ideas. His style is drastically different from mine, though his lines are wonderful and he has a wonderful eye. He seems to have a natural instinct for when and how to add Relief to the surface that I have always been uncomfortable with. He has inspired me to push myself in future and do more of my surface carving on my utility work rather then only my sculptures.<br />
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A number of wood workers and I spoke a great deal on the different techniques required to make a similar item on a Wood Lathe as on the Potters Wheel, bringing back a project I had in mind of working with a wood artist or learning on my own and having some mixed media pieces that will be wood and Stone to show two forms of natural yet controllable art. I have been sketching out projects and will me working up a sires I hope to try soon.<br />
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My wonderful neighbors were Crystal Jewelry Makers, making amazing products out of jewelry and creating rainbows out of lights. Their work inspired me to look at my glazes and work on a glaze that could be affected by the light in a way that would replicate the spirit of a prism. Also it was discussed how there are two ways for an Artist to react to other artists of the same type. Many take the road of "Competition" be it friendly or otherwise, it is natural for us to compare and try to defend what we see as our territory.<br />
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While I have always thought of my self as the other, an eternal Teacher and Student. I try to step back and remain humble in my work. While it means describable things to me my techniques are those that were perfected of the centuries not in my lifetime. I do not hold back "trade secrets" to make my own work seem more unattainable. I share my knowledge and try to gain more as I go. I find when I remind myself I did not invent these pieces I stop and see that those around me have work very different from mine in look, function, style, origin. These are the things that keep us from being on competition, and those that are looking to purchase from me are interested in my style, while if they would like the other style they will shop with my fellow artists. I have found over the years it is my spirit and style that draws people to my work, along with my craftsmanship and function. So when people as me how I do a technique I am happy to share without fear they will take my idea and be competition. Inspiration is a good step weather it is my own or some that I share with others.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-38525455248524504942014-01-01T05:44:00.001-08:002014-01-01T05:44:25.650-08:00Form and FunctionNew Year New Inspiration<br />
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Well with my new Studio, and a new year I have started finding myself working in a new way. Thinking more about the relationship and symbiotic relationship between the vessel and the material inside.<br />
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Teapots, Honey Pots, Salt Shakers, Plates, they are all utilitarian and have been taken advantage of for years to the point we no longer see them. However their form and usage as started to give me a feeling of truth. They do not hold back what they are, they do not strive to be more then they are, only to be the best of what they are.<br />
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They may have a surface beauty, though it is only really a make of the maker, while the form is the true beauty, along with the way that it fulfill it's purpose. A teapot that is not functional is lovely to sit on the mantel but then the truth of the piece is gone forever, while it LOOKS like a Teapot, it will not work as One<br />
While if you were to make a piece that is Functional with a small amount of decoration and alteration, though can and still is used, this pieces holds far more beauty for me then the showpieces on the mantel or in the museum. For it is a Living Piece in that it is interacting with not only people but also the material that gives it soul.<br />
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An Pot can sit on an stand, mantel or in a corner, but until it is filled with the ashes of a loved on it is not fulfilling it's purpose as an Urn. A reciprocal for those we wish to keep close, while replacing the ill feelings of loss with a beauty in form and decoration.<br />
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Their for I am going to be starting a new line of work that revisits a topic from my past, Inner Space. Only rather then talking about my own inner spaces as I did in that Show I will be looking at the form and function that the inner space of pieces creates. Join me on my quest for a better understanding of what makes each piece have it's own Soul.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-74231241250160375482013-12-05T02:55:00.001-08:002013-12-05T02:55:38.310-08:00End of year review and restart.This year has had many trials, tribulations and more for everyone. I would first like to say Thank you to everyone, not for any one thing you may or may not have done for me or my personal community but for anything that you may have done this year for others.<br />
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I have finally been able to rejoin the community in my own way, this year helping at Sr Centers, Joining the Local art museum's guild to help strengthen the community as a whole. And a few other things, though I know others have done more, or more meaningful activities and I would like to take a moment and say thank you. Not enough business large or small take the time these days to thank everyone for their helping of others.<br />
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Next I would like to say I have been busy with festivals and moving and building my new studio closer to home. This has taken a great deal of time and has not yet been completed though I am running in a smaller capacity. I was fortunate enough to have the chance to join a number of wonderful people this year in some very special events.<br />
<br />Hickory Women Show<br />
Rock Barn Country Clubs Holiday Women's Show<br />
Tasteful Beans Pottery Show and Sale.<br />
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Not to mention all of the local community events, wine tastings, and much more. I hope that the coming year will be as active as this one, and that I will be able to offer even more wonderful works for everyone to enjoy.<br />
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While I have not been as active online as I would hope to be I am already setting my new years resolution and getting a start on it as to keeping the public more up to date on all the goings on with Tigersmoon Designs, and much more. So I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season, and you will be hearing from me soon.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-62609419431024532062013-08-22T05:13:00.002-07:002013-08-22T05:13:16.873-07:00Well we are once again doing something new. Tigersmoon Designs has been working with Mud Shack Studio, teaching and making wonderful things. However now once again we are expanding to new places. Along with the shows I personally always enjoy we will be working with the local senior centers to build more community involvement with in the arts.<br />
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Pottery has taken over my world, once again, and I have been working
hard to expand my offerings. My most popular Item to date are my
stopper-less salt and pepper shakers. A nifty devise that makes spills a
thing of the past with a simple use of physics.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-31560970441218565812013-02-15T06:57:00.001-08:002013-02-15T06:57:17.232-08:00On my Soap Box No this is not a political rant, but just what it states. Well perhaps a little social effect, but I am only human after all.<br />
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But soap is the word of the day. What makes it so special.<br />
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Why do we love it, and all the good things it can do for us?<br />
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There are many things that can be said about soaps, including the breakdown of all of the nutrients in the ingredients, but i have already spouted all those wonders before. Anti-wrinkle, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, and moisturizing.<br />
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However for me it is about two additional things. One is luxury, the other is economy.<br />
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Most of all the feel of relaxing in a hot bath or shower with a bar of homemade soap is one that can only be described as lavish. For a few dollars more then store bought you can have a product that is better for you, the environment, and your since of being.<br />
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Hand made soaps can last longer then many of the interferer store brand soaps with more effect. And have a far wider selection of scents and oils to make your feel special and pampered.<br />
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Also the economy and environment are greatly benefited by this small item. Most large name companies involve so much machinery and processing not to mention transport it is hard to say the true effect it has on the planet. While small operations and home made soap can be made with as little as a pot and a mold. Even extra (waste) can be used for house hold uses (I use my extra soap base waste to make laundry detergent).<br />
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How ever the thing I find most beneficial is the influx into the small businesses. Large conglomeration create jobs, a wonderful thing, however majority of the money goes into the pockets of the rich. Helping the economy very little. While small business owners like soap makers put that money back into the surrounding area, keeping service jobs going, and much more. So as anyone whom tries to teach shop small and local will tell you a little in a small business will go a long way.<br />
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So it is amazing when one thinks about it. That luxury locally made soap you are looking at when you are in the gift shop or farmers market may hold more power in it then just good skin and relaxation.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-6780043751212068172013-01-23T07:47:00.002-08:002013-01-23T07:47:57.139-08:00As many may know Tigersmoon has a new satellite location. It also is hoped that soon there will more more locations to offer my work. Soaps, salts, and Lip Balms are all being offered at Mud Shack Studio along with hand spun yarn and a few other pieces of art.<br />
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The wonderful people at Mud Shack have shown a great interest in the pieces and I hope this bodes well for other local shops to take on some of my home made goodies.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-75775896362322022982012-12-06T13:04:00.001-08:002012-12-06T13:04:04.304-08:00Tigersmoon has gone Hard.<span id="internal-source-marker_0.5958497984303305" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">While
I know it has made me lax on my posting I have started a studio with my
Uncle and Fellow Potter, called Mud Shack Studio. Also I have taken
over some local Craft events. These have been keeping me on my toes,
literally. Even my knitting has slacked off, so my projects have started
to pile up.</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">My knitting status is simple I have finished a few scarves and hats for the cold snap. Now I am working on a beautiful pair of </span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/cseneque/am-socks"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">Cabled socks</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> out of </span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/indulgence-distrato"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">Distrato by Indulgence</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">. It is my first time working a Cable Pattern. I am loving these socks, and have not even turned the heel yet.</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Yarns
I Have a lovely stockpile, and finished a 800 yard lace weight a week
or so ago out of bright pink mohair for a friend of mine. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I
have been going to local assisted living homes and demoing how to make
my lip balms and offering them as gifts to the residents.</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">With all of this do not think I have gone soft... rather I am bringing out the clay and getting muddy.</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I
have added over the last few weeks some lovely yarn bowls that I have
made, and will be adding more as they are glazed. </span><br />
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<a href="http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t134/tigersmoonva/Tigersmoon%20Products/CERAMIC%20MAGIC/Bowl11-204a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t134/tigersmoonva/Tigersmoon%20Products/CERAMIC%20MAGIC/Bowl11-204a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Also I will be adding
some hand made wooden drops spindles, and other wood crafts to the shop.
All built or turned with care.</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Now is the time to buy something for the craftier, art lover, or just special person in your life.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-79808792506456401622012-11-03T17:25:00.003-07:002012-11-03T17:25:26.030-07:00A Wonderful Fall FestivalToday I spent the day in Charlotte at a great First Annual Fall Craft Festival. I was happy to bring not only my soaps, bath products and yarns but also some of my pottery both new and older work.<br />
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I was exited to see that what started out as 15-20 Pieces I only came home with 3. My soaps and lip balms were a hit, along with my Bath salts, though the star of the show was the spinning demos. I was exited and had a great time showing how to spin both on the wheel and on drop spindles.<br />
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Congratulations to the winner of my Bath Gift Basket, I hope that the relaxing lavender salt, and pampering soap and lip balm will bring you joy. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-79972225786576563572012-10-08T05:30:00.001-07:002012-10-08T05:30:50.866-07:00Taking back our specialties.Local Sit and spin. <div>
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Of late public knitters and spinners are popping up in some of the most unexpected places. A craft that has traditionally been in the home has found it's way on the public buses, and to park benches. Most people are not expecting to turn the corner in your downtown area and find a spinning wheel a whirling or drop spindle spinning away. </div>
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While last month was International Spin in public day I wish to keep this movement going. </div>
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I am gathering a number of other local fiber artists and we want to take back our area. We are going to gather and "cop a squat" in out own nontraditional places.</div>
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I challenge you do join others in your area. If you are not a spinner, knitter or artist I say pick one of your hobbies that are normally done within your home, and try it were others can see. See reactions of others when they see what wonderful things you can do. It is a wonderful chance to not only exchange ideas, but teach others about your skill.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-62204176603503176162012-09-21T05:41:00.001-07:002012-09-21T05:41:26.100-07:00Holiday Ramp Up.Holidays are coming up and I am building up my stocks. Gift baskets are going to be made to order though supplies are still available and ready for orders and single orders.<br />
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I am also exited about my classes I am offering for private art lessons or home school groups. Once again I get the chance to see joy in the eyes of today's youth when they get to use creativity and self expression.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-29753114707226664602012-08-23T11:23:00.000-07:002012-08-23T11:23:22.200-07:00Classes for the MassesEducation has seen a great change in the last few decades. Before you had Public, or Private schools. Today you also tend to find Magnet schools, online schools and perhaps one of the fastest growing groups Home Schools. While all have wonderful advantages on some level many have one fatal Flaw. The arts is slowly being removed from the General Education of today's youth.<br />
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Today if you have a child that has a strong gift for art and they are lucky enough to have it spotted by someone that is in the know they may luck out and have chance at an Art Magnet School. However in the public and even some private schools art is being shoved even farther down the requirement latter in exchange for classes that press one into the proverbial box. As a teacher once told me there are many levels of thinking and what is often taught in schools (history, language, social studies, even spelling, and some math) is Memory. This is the lowest and least effective form of thought, yes what the simple minded animal in the changes use when taught a trick. The highest form of thought is creative thinking and problem solving.<br />
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Unless you are in a special class or program this is not taught in school as it can not be tested. With one exception, art classes. Art and creative studies encourages students to think on a higher level then simply the swallowing and regurgitation of knowledge. They also are the classes that let the student express themself and learn who they truly are.</blockquote>
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Studies have shown that age 8 is a pivital age in the life of a child. prier to this age you were not forced to color in the lines, art was what you made not what it looked like. Between 5-8 pressure begins to be placed on the child to make art that Looks like something. This stunts their creative thought and makes them wish to color in the lines. Well I say no more. Lines are there as a guide not a law. Let art be reborn in the lives of youth.<br />
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More and more families and home school groups are contacting artist and having private lessons given to round out the lack of creative learning being given in most schools. These opportunistic give the average student a better chance in the future to see what it is they wish to become, not only artist, but creative directors, architects, business owners all can spout from an unrecognized love of art.<br />
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It has been my goal for many years to help people young and old embrace art for their minds, and spirit. I have taught in many programs for over 9 years. Now I am offering private classes for home school, private families, or those that are hoping to build a personal portfolio for schools that you are looking to attend. So if you have a child that seems to need an extra boost or is just showing a love of art, look in your area for classes or groups. Range in price and quality, you may get a discount if you have a group. So see what you can find by looking for art classes for the masses.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-25919604823741145442012-08-05T16:56:00.002-07:002012-08-05T16:56:20.748-07:00Self Fiber Challenge<b id="internal-source-marker_0.37117454037070274" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Through the olympics I have set myself with a few goals. I joined Ravolympics, a contest to do fiber events throughout the entire Olympics. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have joined events such as </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Charity Rowing, Hand Dye High Dive, Handspun Heptathlon, Hat Dash,Free Style, Single Skein Sprint, and Sock Put.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">These events were designed so that they were to be started at the lighting of the torch and must be finished before the ending ceremony. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Below are some of the events that are offered.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">afghan marathon</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">baby dressage</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">bag-n-tote backstroke</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">balance beads</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">cable steeplechase</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">cast on mania trap shoot</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">charity rowing</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">colourwork crosscountry</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">cowl jump</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">double-knit boxing</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">felted freestyle</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">free choice all-around</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">frogging trampoline</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">hand-dye high dive</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">handspun heptathlon</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">hat dash</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">holiday hurdles</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">home stuff hammerthrow</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">lace longjump</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">mitten medley </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">modular relay</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">rhythmic machinastics</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">scarf hockey</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">shawl sailing</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">single skein sprint</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">sock put</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">swatching coxswain</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">sweater triathlon</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">synchronized stash busting</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">toy toss</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">weaving vault</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">wips wrestling</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So I challenge you...</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do something that makes you challenge yourself this month.</span></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-76547203478730522502012-07-11T03:49:00.001-07:002012-07-11T03:49:32.385-07:00Project PlansWell Projects out everyone. What is it that is making your tick at this time.<br />
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Many of you may or may not know my husband Raine is always supportive of my projects, though in all the years we have been together has only ever asked from one thing made (knit or crochet). Well that changed, a few months back he stated he would love a knit kilt. So I did what any loving knitting wife would. I went to Google.... and Ravelry, and every other knitting site there was. Seemed to date there has not been a true Men's kilt that has been knit.<br />
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So I put out some feelers and conferred with some experts (also whom admitted to having never heard of this project) and I got stated. With many restarts I am seeing the end of the finish-line with this kilt and I must say for a prototype it is looking wonderful. Once I have finished the bottom up length I will be adding in the pleats, and a waistband including belt loops.<br />
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The funny thing is I already have request to make these kilts for a number of people. However here is my official statement on this. At this time it is not conducive for my company to spend such a long time working on such large projects. However I do intend on righting a pattern and offering it in my shop and a few other places for a very reasonable price. I hope that by this time next year knitted kilts will be all the rage.<br />
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But then the question is what is next on the block.<br />
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Well with the help of the new face in my Comp we are now offering banners, avatars, and custom cards. And soon I will be adding wood projects to the ranks.<br />
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New batches of Handmade soaps are planned soon, and or coarse with the Olympics (Ravolympics) I will be working on spinning, and knitting small projects that I hope to offer for the shop as well. This summer heat is not getting me down. I will not be daunted by record heat, but instead enjoy the sun.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-69383152568917008962012-06-27T14:19:00.002-07:002012-06-27T14:19:50.468-07:00Summer SunS<span style="font-family: inherit;">ummer sun getting your down? If you are like me fair skin may keep you out of the sun, and keep you from being out on these wonderful days. But there are tips to help this problem and protect yourself from UV damage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We all know t<span style="font-family: inherit;">hat sunscreen and hats are what we should always use before we leave the house. They protect us from UV rays that are not only bad for our overall health, but our skin pays the price. There are a few tricks for those that wish to help in the protection of our skin.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you forgot to apply, or sunscreen fails you then you there are tips and tricks that will help deal with the damage. Keeping your skin moist is always ideal though when it is damaged it is even more important. Aloe is a well known cooling salve that is often used for this problem, however I since have found it caused me more problem with its slimy or sticky feel. In my search for the right solution I came upon the solution already in my cabinet a few years ago. </span><br />
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The item that I had been using for spots and skin blemishes, along with the once and a while bug bite, witch hazel has great effects on sunburns and sun damage. I have started using this product everyday, it not only is good for sunburns and the before mentioned problems it cleans and tones skin leaving you with the same positive effects of aloe without the slimy/sticky feeling.<br />
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Witch Hazel is known for the fallowing effect and more.<br />
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<li><span style="background-color: white;">Soothing </span><span style="background-color: white;">poison</span><span style="background-color: white;"> Ivy/oak, bug bites, cuts, </span><span style="background-color: white;">bruises</span><span style="background-color: white;"> chicken pox, blisters, and burns</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Soothes heat/diaper rash, and razor burn</span></li>
<li>Helps control skin blemishes and spots</li>
<li>Removes heat and redness from Sunburns</li>
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In addition to the soothing of the damaged skin you need to lotion the areas that are damaged. Burns tend to blister and peal when the water boils in the cells. This rapid heating process effects the hydration of the skin, and to aid in the repair lotion can be added in addition to your soothing balms. Look for lotions high in antioxidants </div>
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I have in the past blended my favorite lotion with the witch hazel to get the blended effect. It worked wonderfully however the mix was oily as the lotion was not not made with the additional ingredient in mind. </div>
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Some homemade products have these added in from the beginning, though you may not find them in stores. I make and often sell body butter in the summer just for this purpose. I intend to start using offering it year long as the effects are seen all year, and always good even without sun damage. </div>
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But most of all, in the summer heat. Keep on your sunblock and hat. Remember too your sunglasses (my worst failing) and lip balm. After all lip are skin too, and your eyes are fragile things, take care of them. </div>
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Drink lots of water, not only will this help with your internal temp, and dehydration, but hydrated skin is more likely to recover from skin damage faster.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312662021558274746.post-20719021301025767532012-05-07T05:41:00.003-07:002012-05-07T05:41:40.067-07:00Make your dishes SparkleDish washing liquids are not all the same, for many years soap scum residue was a problem even with new dishwashers. We changed brands of cleaners, used all the additives, but still would have to hand scrub some things just to get them to LOOK clean. Then I gave up on it. <div>
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No I did not go out and get new plates and glasses, or get rid of the dishwasher. Instead I stopped using commercial soaps. Instead I used a traditional homemade recipe that has done a far better job at a fraction of the price. Even the lower end liquid would cost about .20 a load, my homemade liquid is .04 a load and dose a better job, with no soap scum to speak of. </div>
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A box of BORAX and Baking Soda cost about $1.00 each, and then Lemon juice is also about $1. I use one Tbs each of BORAX and BS adding 4 cups of water, and a squeeze of Lemon juice to cut grease. Once mixed I let this sit for a few hours to thicken a bit before use. To really get shine I add a bit of white vinegar into the additive tank to release a bit at each rinse.</div>
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Never again can I see the logic of buying cleaner when in the time it takes to make some Kool Aid I can have an entire container of spot free low cost dish washing liquid</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18434418419652876717noreply@blogger.com0