Thursday, January 31, 2013

Emma Skurnick "Grand Old Ram" 1-31-13

"Grand Old Ram"
Emma Skurnick
Colored Pencil & Watercolor, Framed ~20 3/4" x 17"
$400

          I wonder if Ramses is the model for this truly GRAND RAM.  Emma's work is so life-like and full of spirit and personality!
http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Emma-Skurnick.html
     

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Monday, January 28, 2013

Vangi Cathcart 1-28-13

Vangi Cathcart, 
 resident Sumi-e Artist
 featured in  February. 

Opening Reception
Friday, 6-8
at the Joyful Jewel


   The Years of the Snake

1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013

Snakes, they don’t make me joyful. When I was younger I could not even look at them in a picture. As a child we had a huge dictionary that voluntarily would open to a page of snakes and it would give me the creeps. I would slam it shut instantaneously with a high pitched shriek. 

I am a Simi-e Artist, which is painting nature subjects with ink and watercolor on rice paper. Because of my art I am also interested in Asian culture. This interest has led me to follow the Chinese Astrological signs for the birth years. . The last two years I painted and exhibited the rabbit and the dragon on the years 2011 and 2012 at the Joyful Jewel. To celebrate the 2013 Chinese New Year, which is February 10th, I have chosen February to exhibit the first Friday at the Joyful Jewel. 

In keeping with my tradition this 2013 New Year I checked the astrological signs. I  was startled to discover that the Astrological symbol for 2013 is the snake “eeeek”. Oh dear so I have chosen to do the sign of the snake.  Why couldn’t it have been a cute little dog or even and old goat?

Researching the snake, I came across pictures that reminded me of the dictionary in my youth. Ugh. Trying to keep positive I thought of good old Disney, keep it light comical. Also when I reminisce about the east I think about painting mystical snakes. Well I managed to come up with 7 snakes I could handle, “Yikes not literally.”

Won’t you face your fears or tickle your fancy and join me for an early Chinese new year celebration. Come see my version of snakes the First Friday at the Joyful Jewel. Refreshment served? Yes, but I promise you it won’t be snake meat.

Art By Vangi


Sunday, January 27, 2013

Larrie Collura "Cedar Walking Sticks" 1-27-13

"Cedar Walking Sticks"
Larrie Collura
cedar, sometimes gemstones, sometimes copper
$38

          These walking sticks or canes are beautifully fashioned and finished by Larrie Collura from wood he gathers in Chatham Forrest, down the road from the Joyful Jewel in Pittsboro.  Each one, following nature's original contours, is unique.  "Handles" fit right into your hand, and Larrie is happy to adjust the height to just your size. The bottom is covered with mar-proof material, ready to do it's job without scratching your floor.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Larrie-Collura.html
     

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Saturday, January 26, 2013

Donna Cassidy "Stained Glass Tree" 1-26-13

"Stained Glass Tree"
Donna Cassidy
12" x 12", Glass, Foil & Solder
$55

          Donna Cassidy makes popular stained glass trees.  Each tree is different, having flowed partially by Donna's own "painting" hand - the trunk,  partially by small chunks of brightly colored glass - the leaves and fruit which Donna "hangs" from the tree branches.  This Tree is framed by swirly iridescent glass panels which, as you can see, really pick up the quality of the sky behind them in the window.  Wind, visible in the glass swirls and also the apparent movement of the tree itself, transports us to a breezy sun-lit Spring day.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Donna-Cassidy.html
     

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Friday, January 25, 2013

David Snyder Sterling Silve Earrings & Necklace 1-25-13


Sterling Silver with Polymer Clay Turtles Earrings
Crysoprase Wrapped in Sterling Silver Necklace
David Snyder
$28, $33

          Our newest jewelry artist is David Snyder.  He works with sterling silver wire and a variety of gemstones to make curvy, fun jewelry.  These are two of my favorites. 

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/David-Snyder.html
     

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Thursday, January 24, 2013

Gerald Dukes "History Up in Smoke" 1-24-13

History Up in Smoke
Gerald Dukes
Hard cover coffee table-style book, stunning photographs
 $60

Gerald Dukes photographed and created a stunning new book: "History Up in Smoke: Chatham County Courthouse Fire, March 25, 2010." Gerald writes " . . . the unthinkable happened and the courthouse went up in flames. . . . I made this book to document what I witnessed that eventful day." No one could have captured something so intense as intimately as Gerald has. To see the awesome fire, the strength of the fire fighters, and the gripping experience in photograph is humbling--an amazing masterpiece!

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Gerald-Dukes.html
     

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Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Kathryn Bertok "Bottle Cap Earrings" 1-23-13

"Bottle Cap Earrings"
Kathryn Bertok
Metal & Resin
$10

          Kathryn Bertock, whose creativity just doesn't stop (!), fashioned these fun earrings from small metal bottle caps.  The curvy dancing design is set in resin.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Kathryn-Bertok.html
     

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Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Emily Weinstein "Moon Book" 1-22-13

"Moon Book"
Emily Weinstein
82 pages, $14.95

          This is one of those truly enchanting books!  Each page features one of Emily Weinstein's fabulous paintings and a little gem of writing.  There is ample proof of her devotion to the moon as well as painting as the book represents a full year of painting the full moon each month.  On the back cover, there is a recommendation I especially like by another gallery owner, Patsy Whitman of PMW Gallery (Stamford, CT).  "Braving cold, mosquitos, angry bulls, Emily reaps the rewards of showing up to capture each moon."  Here is what Emily writes on the page along with the above painting, titled "Back Home" - "One thing I love most about going away is coming home and finding everything okay.  This painting celebrates that." 

At the Joyful Jewel, we have Emily's cards and books -- oh and also flyers about the cats she has rescued and who are looking for homes!

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Emily-Weinstein.html
     

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Monday, January 21, 2013

On a Monday

Standing over in the pottery section by Jerry's pouty red-lipped chickens, I turn to the Featured Artist wall and see absolute dazzle as light hits Janice's mosaics. Afternoon light is stunning on them, dear Ms. Rieves. Then I sit at the computer and straight in front of my eyes the sun is making magic on Rita's new Shoreline of Light. The water gleams as if the moon was hitting it same time as the sun! Behind me, I must confess are some beautiful Valentine cards I brought in.

Bob Cathgart's new book has my attention and I enjoyed just creating a new webpage for him on our site. He's getting ready to read his new book of poems here in a few weeks.

In the meantime, I'm distracted again as my eyes take in the new stain glass lamps in our window. Wow, Linda, they would be wonderful at night in any home.

Speaking of home, I'm taking one of  Beth's new birdhouses with me and another Pelzel pot. I won't even try to describe these delights as you must come in and see.

Lots of people have been in today in this gorgeous weather.
C'mon in and say hi.

On a Monday,
Sharon
ps  Shuga wants you to know there are some beautiful new greeting cards for which she was the model, and her sister Mela, one lovely cat, has a series also.  Wonders never cease..................

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Sheridan Bushnell "Drink of This and Drown" 1-20-13

"Drink of This and Drown"
by Sheridan Bushnell,
book, 115 pages, $14.95

          This is some of the sweetest mystical writing since Rumi!  In every contact I have had with her, beautiful poetry flows almost constantly from Sheridan Bushnell.  It seems to be in her very pores.  While I know Sheridan mostly from her poetry, others know her as a supporter of women's empowerment or as a motivational speaker.  Sheridan is also the originator of the Joyful Jewel's popular "Vision & Voice" where we invite writers of all levels to find a piece of art that inspires a writing -- and then the writer and the artist together present their pieces at an event.  This year's Vision & Voice presentations will be March 24th at the Joyful Jewel.  Look for Sheridan to be there with at least one of her poems, and peruse this book while you're here!

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Sheridan-Bushnell.html
     

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Saturday, January 19, 2013

Jan Dunn "Woven Gourd" 1-19-13

"Woven Gourd"
Jan Dunn
~ 9" x 6 1/2", gourd, reed, wire, beads

          This dramatic basket by Jan Dunn features and dyed & cleaned gourd, with dyed round reed, wire and glass beads.  The dark mottled purple and grassy green complement each other perfectly.  This effect is a jaunty, sturdy container, sporting weaving perfection!

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Jan-Dunn.html
     

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Friday, January 18, 2013

Marilyn Penrod "And Nothing More" 1-18-13

"And Nothing More"
Marilyn Penrod
16" x 20", Acrylic on Canvas
$265

          I love the title that Marilyn Penrod gave this painting as I think it provides insight into what she was thinking as she chose to paint this enchanting raven.  You may have your own view of the meaning.  Here's mine.  Although the world seems to be fractured and swirling around, there is smug satisfaction in the raven's stance and one visible eye --  he has finished all he had to do that day -- a job well done.  Not only is there "nothing more" there is "nothing less," and no need to worry what anyone else thinks.  There is so much to be said about satisfaction!       ~ Mariah

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Marilyn-Penrod.html
     

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Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Vangi Cathcart "Frog & Lily Pad" card 1-16-13

Frog & Lily Pad card
Original Watercolor card
$4

          Vangi Cathcart has created with enchanting scene with a gestalt frog, just a touch of moving water and a sweet pond waterlily.  Perhaps Spring will come after all bringing promises of love and merriment!  Wake up and sing, you Spring Peepers!

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Vangi-Cathcart.html
     

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Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Jerry Fowler "Blue Frosted Bowl" 1-15-13

"Blue Frosted Bowl"
Jerry Fowler
~ 5 3/4" x 3", Ceramic
$12

          Perfect for soup or oatmeal on a winter day -- or maybe for snow ice cream!  Do you think we'll have any snow this year?  Jerry Fowler made the bluest of blue bowl, perfect and inviting you to hold and warm your hands as you eat.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Jerry-Fowler.html
     

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Monday, January 14, 2013

On a Monday

in this quiet
darkening
afternoon
birds and butterflies
that seemed like paintings
are flying about

not out the door
in the store
where all things
come to life at night
maybe

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Amanda Egdorf-Sand "Porcelain Earrings"1-13-13

"Porcelain Earrings"
Amanda Egdorf-Sand
Porcelain Ceramic, ~ 2" long

          Amanda has brought in some new clay jewelry.  These are more delicate as they are made from the finest of clays, porcelain.  It's a different look, much softer than the earthy clay she often uses.  I love the white and blue dips and dapples on these earrings.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Amanda-Egdorf-Sand.html
     

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Brooks "Wall Piggie" 1-12-13

"Wall Piggie"
by Brooks
~12" x 6", wood, paint & medium, found objects, wool, fabric
$75

          The artist Brooks, seems as colorful and fun as her work.  This cheerful fringed piggie sports a hand woven hairdo and tail.  She is shaped from wood and ever-so stylish in her coat of many colors.  She loves to join a towering flamingo, a wooly sheep and a couple of smaller farm animals as they party hearty at the Joyful Jewel after hours.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/brooks.html
     

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Friday, January 11, 2013

Marrianna Osolin-Putnam "Man in the Moon" 1-11-13

"Man in the Moon"
Marrianna Osolin-Putnam
9" x 12" Acrylic on Canvas, $20

          This cheerful, colorful fellow greets you with an offering of flowers, feathers and pure joy.  Do we need a lesson in global unity?  It seems that Marrianna can use every color there is in a painting and show you how they can get along, enhancing and supporting each other to their full potential!  Although this painting has a few less colors in quantity than some, you hardly notice that the harmonious two major colors are primary -- and opposite on the color wheel.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Marrianna-Osolin-Putnam.html
     

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Thursday, January 10, 2013

Janice Rieves "Spiral Table" 1-10-13

"Spiral Table"
Janice Rieves
31"H, 24"Diameter, Glass Tile, Iron, Grout
$550
          This colorful-sturdy table sits among the other exceptional art pieces that Janice brought in for her January Featured Artist area at the Joyful Jewel.  It commands attention both with it's sturdiness and it's sheer beauty.  With a table like this in your home, it seems there is even more than that you would be awestruck  as you pass it, which of course you would be.  But also you would never be bored.   There would always be something calling you to swirl, to center your consciousness, and then to take it spiraling out into all those fractal directions!

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Janice-Rieves.html
     

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Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Marty Broda "Dream Catcher" 1-9-13

"Dream Catcher"
Marty Broda
Mixed Media with Feathers, $22

          As with all of Marty Broda's work, this feather-plush piece reveals consciously chosen components, put together beautifully and purposefully.  Bringing positive fruitful dreams, this sweet but powerful piece of art asks to be placed where the sleepy one will see it last thing before going to dreamland.


http://www.joyfuljewel.com/marty-broda.html
     

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Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Andrea Batsche's "Twisted Tee Adornment" 1-8-13

"Twisted Tee Adornment"
Andrea Batsche
Upcycled T Shirt
$8

          Andrea Batsche's business card says "New Karma for an Old Tee" -- here's a great example of how creatively she is performing this miracle!  Bright yellow, made from an old well-used tee shirt, this "Adornment" can be used as a long scarf, a head band, a short scarf, a waist belt -- or something else that presents itself to the wearer.  All of these uses and only $8.  The creation looks proud and truly honors it's former incarnation with a new beauty and style.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/andrea-batsche.html
     

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Monday, January 7, 2013

On a Monday

As I Close the Store

quiet premises
longer light
jewelry rests
for the night
echoes whisper
off the wall
a sweet day here
was had by all
so shuga and I
to yoga go
full of beauty
from this day's show
rich in memories
to welcome Mariah
when she comes tomorrow
and says Oh Joy-a!

on a Monday,
Sharon

Sunday, January 6, 2013

Elle "Copper Tree" necklace 1-6-13

Copper Tree
Elle
Copper, Polymer Clay, metal beads and chain
$82

          Elle's jewelry is always creative and different.  This one has a hand cut copper tree riveted to a a polymer clay background.  The chain is made of metal beaded chain and chain with a fancy copper clasp.  Near the end of the clasp is an added special bead Elle fashioned from fiber and clay.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/elle.html
     

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Saturday, January 5, 2013

Beth Bale "Serval" 1-5-13

“Serval”
Beth Bale
Acrylic 20 x 16” Framed
$270

Servals are much smaller wild cats than tigers and I think they have several at the Carolina Tiger Rescue. This is an acrylic painting on canvas.  FYI, CTR gave me written and legal permission to paint these from their own photos because I had a display of art up in their gift shop for 3 months and they wanted some paintings of their own animals.  They are usually very proprietary with their images, by whomever may take them, and I feel very privileged to have gotten to do these paintings.

I have been asked why I chose acrylic when I usually paint in watercolor.  All I can say is that I find myself reaching for my acrylics paints many times when I know I am planning to do a highly realistic, representational painting of an animal with fur.  It seems so easy in acrylic compared to watercolor.  I tend to do a number of layers of thin paint in acrylic, starting with a very thin wash of almost complementary colors to what I plan to put over it.  The details, some individual pieces of fur, foreground, etc. go in at the very end with a smaller brush than I use for most of the painting.  And you see the final result.  I am constantly reminding myself to stop sooner rather than later in my paintings.  It is easy to overdo a painting and paint the life right out of it, so to speak.  Sometimes less is more and just the suggestion of a thing is enough to get the viewer's eye to see what you want them to see.  Hope you enjoy viewing the paintings.                                           ~ Beth Bale

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/beth-bale.html
     

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Thursday, January 3, 2013

Sharon Blessum "Angelina Series Lariat" necklace 1-3-13

"Angelina Series Lariat" necklace
in honor of Angelina Hayes who recently passed into the larger Radiance
Sharon Blessum
$60 - $120

          Angelina and I met in the luminous world of beads-- beads as prayers, beads as love, beads as form, beads as energy. These necklaces are 45-48 inches of elegance, small glass and silver creations. Percentage is donated to American Cancer Society.  ~ Sharon Blessum
         Mariah - These lariats come in several colors, lengths and of course each has a unique and beautiful mix of luminous beads.  I miss Angelina's sweet smile and quiet ways, and I love that Sharon is honoring her in this way.  Angelina had a great love for beads and for Sharon's work, often choosing blessing beads or bracelets with healing properties for someone else she thought needed them.  She was one of a kind and beautiful.  I am fortunate to have known her.

http://www.joyfuljewel.com/sharon-blessum.html
     

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