On a Monday 7-30-12

The new face at the cash register today is none other than my lovely granddaughter, Katie. Thirteen year olds are so smart. In a heartbeat she'd mastered the cash register and square credit card app.  She and Shuga have been the best possible JJ ambassadors to people from Pittsburgh, Akron, Apex, Pittsboro, Siler City, Raleigh, Carrboro,  and elsewhere. After wrapping up Rita Baldwin's paintings, Donna Cassidy's stained glass, Mariah's earrings, and more, Katie got a free minute to sit down.She has been creating a clever style of tote bags from old t shirts. In walks Andrea Batsche, who has sold many similar creations here at the store, and the synergy of artist to artist was pulsing in the air. 

lucky me, 

lucky grandmother,

On a Monday

Sharon

Florence Johnson "Old Tobacco Shed" 7-29-12

“Old Tobacco Shed”

Florence Johnson

Watercolor & India Ink, 16 1/2" x 13 1/2" Framed

$80

      Florence found a row of old tobacco sheds on Green Level Rd. near Apex.  This one has a poignant charm, situated among graceful trees on an old homestead.  Florence likes to capture these vanishing scenes of North Carolina life.

Other ways to join us:

Florence Johnson Joyful Jewel Artist Page: http://www.joyfuljewel.com/Florence-Johnson.html

Sign up for our newsletter:  mariah.joyfuljewel@gmail.com 

Our website with event information:  http:/www.joyfuljewel.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/TheJoyfulJewel

Mariah's Linked In:  www.linkedin.com/pub/mariah-wheeler/12/861/a9b

Jody Jameson - Sushi Bracelet 7-28-12

“Sushi”Bracelet

Jody Jameson

Glass

$70

Inspiration - My fellow beading friend Kathy King came up with a bead quilled technique.  I wanted to come up with my own version of beadwork using her technique.  And, I LOVE sushi!  So, I pulled together both and after viewing (and eating!) lots of sushi "designs", I decided that Sushi Bracelets were the way to express! 

Technique - The first thing I do is take square beads and make "nigiri" bases (lots of them!).  I then make different "raw fish" to rest on top - using basic bead weaving techniques and using a variety of sushi photos for coloring.  For the rolls, I use Kathy King's technique of bead guilled "rolls" and fill with assorted stones, pearls and glass beads.  I link them all together with sterling silver wires/rings and a dyed green pearl to resemble wasabi! 

The finished product is a fun and tasty looking sushi meal! 

ENJOY!                                                                ~ Jody Jameson

Kathryn Bertock - Chain Mail Anklet 7-27-12

“Summer Anklet”

Kathryn Bertock

Chain Mail of Aluminum, Metal Bells  & Glass Beads

$26

            This is anklet is a very easy style of chain mail called "Triangles."  This style can be edited to be larger or smaller depending on the needs of the wearer.  This anklet was made using small triangles that were then decorated with little bells.  The piece is made by hand joining aluminum jump rings.  The aluminum jump rings allow for a very light weight anklet that moves as you walk.  The sounds of tiny bells will follow you through out your day.  I have always enjoyed having items that "talk" as I move.  It's almost like they are celebrating every step you take. 

           I have always enjoyed the craft of chain mail.  It starts with learning the basic skills and adding in more of your own creativity every day.  The possibilities are endless.  A change here or there makes each item special and unique.  I can't wait to see what else is out there for me to learn and incorporate into all of my jewelry making.                  ~Kathryn Bertock

Martha Johnson "The Cure for Anything" 7-26-12

“The Cure for Anything Is"

Martha Johnson

13" x 11" Original Collage, Mixed Media, Framed

$68

 I'm a self-taught collage artist living on the outer banks of NC. I draw my inspiration from the natural world around me, my travels, and the words of many authors.  I love to play with color and texture.  I  use painted and patterned papers, fabric, plant materials, and found objects in my work.  I'm grateful everyday that I'm able to support myself with my artwork!   

                                                                         ~ Martha Johnson

Detail of Collage showing the patterns, components, including a scattering of real shells from the Outer Bank:

Amy Durso Elder Run Set 7-24-12

“Elder Futhark Rune Set"

Amy Durso

8 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 3" Box + 24 Rune Tiles and Instructions
Reclaimed Jatoba and Chatham Co. Maple Wood

$70 Set

Runes are ancient and magic symbols that have been used for writing, divination and magic since the Bronze age.  Current day runecasters often consult the runes to gain clarity and direction on their path of learning, growth and healing. I know many people who draw a rune daily as a means of setting an intention or focus point for meditation.  Others prefer to consult the runes when they are looking for advice on a specific issue.

This Elder Futhark Set is crafted from reclaimed Jatoba (a hardwood floor that was being ripped out) and Chatham County maple.  All wood harvested from our home is sacred and imbued with magic and love.  Rune sets are created in tandem with the cycles of the moon.              ~ Amy Durso

On a Monday 7-23-12

A big, good looking dude wearing a safari hat walks through the door around two.

Is there an old goat in here named Jerry Fowler?
I wouldn't call him that, but I know who he means so grin and say he's just left. Though strangers, it's easy to tell we are both fond of the same guy goat.

Before Jerry left, I walked in on him calling Kate to tell her that her beautiful mirror in the ladies' room has just sold. We high five each other, as happy for her as if it was something of ours.  That's how it rolls.


Here
On a Monday
Sharon

Julie Purcell Prayer Beads 7-22-12

 

“Sodalite Prayer Beads”

Julie Purcell

~ 24" Bead Chain with 4" Tassel,

$40

          These are prayer beads,  and can be used in any chanting practice, but especially Buddhist practice for 108 repetitions, or Sufi  practice using 11, 33, or 101 repetitions of chants, or Beautiful Names of God. One can put any inspirational phrase aloud or on the breath, using prayer beads to count the repetitions, and it usually helps to clear the mind of anxiety, negativity or simply to bring you to a more peaceful, accepting place. I regularly use the prayer beads myself in a number of spiritual practices.

       Ancient truth seekers relied on Sodalite.  It's presence helps to call out the inner truths in ourselves and from those around us.  It helps one to let go of control and to be in peaceful state.  Sodalite clears the mind for deper and wiser thinking by aiding the shift from emotional to rational thinking.                                                                                               ~ Julie Purcell

John Makowski "Large Altar" 7-21-12

Large Altar

John Makowski
Ceramic with Dry Glaze, 15" x 18"
$225

This altar is one in a series of altars...the series is still in process.  I have had altars since the early '70s when I discovered the Goddess spirituality movement in San Francisco.  Then I just piled up rocks and built "sacred space"  areas on my property.  Medicine wheels signifying the four directions, the four elements  were next.  I started creating smaller more intimate altars with multi-levels out of ceramic material in many colors here in North Carolina.  The one pictured is inspired from the Hindu religion...the stamps were found in San Francisco in the 70s,  the Sun rays expanding outward signify our unending spirituality.  The candles when lit create wonderful shadow effects.  Of course I expect people who use my altars to put their own symbols of Spirit on them.                                  ~ John Makowski

Vangi Cathcart "Year of the Dragon" 7-20-12

Chinese Year of the Dragon

1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
Vangi Cathcart
Sumi-e Watercolor, 15" x 12" framed
$30

         The dragon:  The Chinese dragon is a symbol of power and is nonthreatening, contrary to western thought, where dragons are painted with a venomous air. In this painting I tried to capture a light  fantasy friendly creature. The subject of Sumi-e art is nature, which is the style of this painting. Green was selected to convey nature, for a peaceful and pleasing environment. Red is the contrasting color to green which creates a tension, pleasing to the eye.  

                                                            ~ Vangi Cathcart

Cindy Bainbridge Elegant Bird House 7-19-12

 “Elegant Blue Bird House”

Cindy Bainbridge

~ 7 x 13", Wood, Acrylic Paint, Glaze, Rhinestones

$40

The inspiration for this birdhouse was a vintage shoe clip I found in my Mother's closet. I started out by painting the front of the bird house red and added a turquoise crackle glaze. I then stenciled a red design over the blue and attached the rhinestone clip. To finish the piece I painted freehand designs around the clip.

To make the line of rhinestones down the front of the house I cut pieces off the shoe clip. Sometime we don't like to break something that's whole, but I am reminded of a teacher who encouraged me to take things apart to make something new. I then applied a waterproof glaze so the bird house can be displayed - and used- outside.                              ~ Cindy Bainbridge

Donna Cassidy - Fern Window 7-18-12

“Fern Window”

Donna Cassidy

Stained & Fused Glass, 18 ½ x 21 ½”

$160

This window uses a kiln - carved and fused center panel featuring a fern and surrounded by stained glass and decorative solder.  A chain, hanging directions and hardware are included.                             

~ Donna Cassidy

Jeannette AC Johnson - Seven Mile Ridge 7-17-12

“Seven Mile Ridge”

Jeannette AC Johnson

Acrylic, 12 x 12” unframed

$150

"In "Seven Mile Ridge," a pair of trees enjoy the view from their own special overlook.

This painting was inspired by one of my favorite spots for sketching and for simply enjoying the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains."                                    ~ Jeannette AC Johnson

On a Monday 7-16-12

      Guess Who
 bold strokes
of a warrior woman
leap from her canvas
stop me in my tracks
most days to absorb
her brushes' news
that life is big
no shrinking violets
in her July garden
at the Joyful Jewel

her power takes residence
in many homes
today her passion
gives way to the pensive
as lavender-grey
creeps across a corner
of otherwise louder colors
as a moon usually howled at
emerges for lullaby

On a Monday, not as art critic but as lunar lover,
sharon

Louise Francke 2013 Calendar 7-15-12

Whimzical Animals 2013 Calendar

July – Polar Bear in a Rouseau Garden

Louise Francke

$10 – 12-mo. Calendar

          My paintings are inspired by art history masters.  The classic works of the past 400 years have become the rich source of my imagination. I mix the elements of the costumed settings and contemporary people and animals.

          My paintings are full of elaborate detail which heightens the sense of preciousness. The contradiction between master paintings of “high art” and my interpretation creates the essence of my style. I energize the old, with a psychological tension and surrealistic view. 

          July depicts a Polar Bear in a Rouseau Garden. With global warming, polar bears are endangered. This juxtaposes two opposites to provoke thought.                                                                  ~ Louise Francke

Mary Brookins - Ironweed 7-14-12

“Ironweed”

Mary Brookins

Pressed Flower Art, 2 ¾ x 6 ¾” Framed

$12

           I've always loved flowers and so finding a way of preserving them was a natural progression.  I pick the flowers from our gardens or from the roadside, the only criteria being that I think they would look good pressed, whether they are flowers or weeds.  I then press them for at least six weeks either in presses my husband has made or in phone books.  I then try to arrange them in somewhat of a natural way.  I'm still learning which flowers press well and which keep their colors.  I continue to experiment with different mediums in which to display them such as cards, pictures, candles or bookmarks.   Who knows what will come next?  I just really enjoy doing it and hopefully other people will like what I create.                                                                       ~ Mary Brookins

Janice Rieves "Ripe" Mirror 7-13-12

“Ripe” Mirror

Janice Rieves

24 1/2 x 36", Ceramic, Glass

$425

This jeweled mirror which I named "Ripe" for obvious reasons is a continuation of an exploration of a form or variation of form. For years, I have been drawn to exploring the enclosed organic form in the shape of a chrysalis, bud or womb. The idea of an outer form enfolding and protecting something precious and full of potential within, yet still gestating or sometimes just unfolding, has compelled me into expressing this thought in many mediums. 

About five years ago, I cut the form for the mirror out of plywood, not really knowing what direction I wanted to go with it. I just wanted to look at a fat, juicy shape and let it speak to me. Well, it was pretty quiet for all those years, not much to say. Then I discovered "crash glass".  I collected some fractured auto glass left behind by a car accident. I think I must be part raven, because I am attracted to shiny bits, especially when most people consider them trash. Apparently, that was the catalyzing piece, because everything else flowed together after that. I had major fun painting the background that the glass is adhered to. I wanted to convey a sense of ripeness, juicyness and fullness. I think the glass beads do a nice job with that with their fruity colors and shiny surfaces. This is a piece that comes ALIVE with some sun shining on it (as most of my glass pieces do).                  ~ Janice Rieves

Raging Grannies 7-12-12

The Triangle Raging Grannies

cd $15

...work for peace; and for social, environ-mental, and economic justice; through song and humor. They write their own satirical lyrics to old familiar tunes, and perform whenever and wherever their message needs to be heard – whether they’re invited or not. 

The Triangle gaggle of Raging Grannies was founded in 1998 as part of an international network of older women who first appeared in Victoria, British Columbia, in the winter of 1986-1987.  Currently, there are more than 80 gaggles of Raging Grannies throughout the world.

We're not just another "cover" group. All of the lyrics we sing are our own, ensuring that we sing them with the passion of our convictions. The fact that we set our lyrics to familiar tunes of the last century helps define our place as "women of that certain age."

Membership in the Triangle Raging Grannies is open to any woman “of that certain age” who brings with her a sense of outrage, a sense of humor, and a commitment to nonviolence. If you’ve ever heard us rage, you know that a good singing voice is not required….      Contact: vickiryder@juno.com

Donna Cassidy Summer Shawl 7-11-12

“Summer Shawl”

Donna Cassidy

Mixed Fiber with Antler Button

$180

Donna made Summer Shawl to be a beautiful cover for those extra air conditioned places we find ourselves in.  The colors are vibrant, the appearance light and airy yet with playful substance.

Beth Bale "Jellybean" 7-10-12

“Jellybean”

Beth Bale

Acrylic 20 x 16” Framed

$270

The white tiger is titled "Jellybean", because that is the name of the tiger at the Carolina Tiger Rescue.  They say he is a very sweet boy, but I'm not sure how much I'd test that theory, as he stands around eight feet high when he stretches up the fence to get treats.  This is an acrylic painting on canvas.

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

On a Monday

Love at First Sight

Shuga and Sharon work together at the Jewel every Monday.  On arrival, Shuga runs the length of the store to say hi to Julia and Jerry.Then our little fur person curls up to rest until the door opens. She loves to greet customers, win their hearts, sometimes help them shop. Occasionally, Shuga is there during the week with godmother, Mariah.

Today she met a new friend. Bob Cathcart greeted her over the counter. Shuga stood on hind legs to chat with him, so we put her in Bob's arms and they fell in love. Could be for happily ever after...

On a Monday,

Sharon

Heidi Wolin - Lady Bug Hat 7-8-12

“Lady Bug Hat”

Heidi Wolin

Fiber Arts – Knitted, Infant Size

$15

I have thought babies were magical for as long as I can remember. When I learned to knit there was no more exciting news that somebody could tell me than "We are having a baby." I would literally run to the nearest yarn store looking for the perfect yarn to knit a special present to welcome the new little one to the world. One day a ladybug landed on my shirt and one of my kids said I should make a ladybug hat and a few hours later the hat was born. 

~ Heidi Wolin

Andrea Synder Underwater World 6/7/12

 

“Underwater World”

Andrea Snyder

Encaustic & Mixed Media, 10 x 8” 

$105

This piece is a further stepping stone into my journey using wax (Encaustic) as a mode of expression. As a mixed media artist I am used to combining mediums and love to play with my materials.  Wax is my newest discovery,and I am LOVING IT!!  This piece is part of my experimental "play."  The back ground surface is acrylic and graphite on clayboard  and the foreground is encaustic on wood panel.  I use a combo of beeswax, oil paint and crayons for my pigmented wax technique.  I love this particular technique as I make a palette on my hot plate and dip and drag the wood panel.  I am always surprised as the image reveals itself. I play and tweak until my intuition tells me when it is done.  This piece feels like an underwater world to me.   Love and enjoy.                                                                                  ~ Andrea Snyder

Shannon Bueker - Horse Head July 6, 2012

Horse Head Series – Tiny

Shannon Bueker

Acrylic, 20 x 20”

$360

This painting was part of a series of five yellow horse heads I started for a commission. After the buyer picked the one he liked, I continued to work on the remaining 4. This one ended up red and yellow.                                                       ~ Shannon Bueker

If you like this horse painting, come to Shannon's Art Party & Reception with evening at the Joyful Jewel -- "Dogs of Summer"  to see the amazing dog paintings Shannon has been doing.  You'll also see her demonstrating her painting technique.  Friday, July 6, 6 - 8pm.

Rita Baldwin - Marsh at Yankeetown Jul. 5, 2012

“Marsh at Yankeetown”

Rita Baldwin

Oil,  24 ½ x 20 ½ Framed

$400

This landscape of a relatively remote marsh area on the west coast of Florida is reminiscent of the Florida I recall as a child (before massive development).  I am drawn to those "wild" places and the beauty and moodiness of nature.  The day this painting was begun, a flock of roseate spoonbills flew overhead and landed on a distant hammock.                                              ~ Rita Baldwin

Sarah McTeer Ogburn July 3, 2012

“Garden Party. She Wore Blue”

Sarah McTeer Ogburn

Watercolor, Pastel, Watercolor Pencil, Acrylic edge and wash, Mica wash, Ink

11 x 14” Raw Canvas

ON HOLD

"It’s easy to believe when you’re young. Anything you couldn’t explain was magical then. It didn’t matter if it was science or a fairy tale. Electricity and elves- fairies were infinitely mysterious and equally possible - elves probably more so.” ~Charles de Lint

May we all remain young forever. ~ Sarah McTeer Ogburn

This just in:   Garden Party has been chosen for publication In 'Pasticcio Quartz' Art Magazine issue #14 due out in August 2012.  Pasticcio Quartiz is published by Sarah Fishburn & Angela Cartwright. 

 

 

A bit about Pastccio Quartz art zine:

  

Pasticcio is more than a zine (A zine - pronounced zeen - derived from magazine - is an independently- or self-published booklet, often created by a single person)…Pasticcio is a pioneer in the next wave of dynamic arts publication arena. It It is so filled with quality art that they call it a quartz-a quality art zine

 In every(8" x8")issue Pasticcio includes a full gallery showcasing new art from a dozen established artists, interviews, book and product reviews, a nod to a couple of our artistic ‘ancestors,’ quotes and quips, lists, advice and tech tips. It offers a panoply of food, history, movies, people, photographs, music, thought, and words served up as a delectable printed pastiche.

On a Monday

Here comes the Fourth of July, a celebration of independence!

Looking around the Jewel today, I see freedom everywhere..............just looking up from my very busy station: fish swim on Marianna's card where there's no water; Kate's flowers bloom like nobody could tell them what to do, Beverly's peace cranes suggest a new world order; Cindy's pinkish bird adorned with flowers, beads, sequins, flies throughout the store; shannon's dogs frolic on their way to the lake; Donna's glass brings in prisms of another way to see reality; Forrest's wall has horse, squirrel, snake, lizard, hummingbird, tiger cubs and more living in harmony; Steven's ballet dancer promise war no more;  Beth's cat and chickens are shaking hands; Ginna's flowered hairpins are for liberated women everywhere.. and my own funque earrings, now there's independence!

All this, on a Monday

Sharon

Sharon Blessum Pittsboro License Plate 7-1-12

“Pittsboro License Plate”

Sharon Blessum

Photography

$24

Shortly before the courthouse burned, I was fortunate to take a few wonderful photographs in evening light. Knowing how people love our Pittsboro, it came to me to create license plates.  I chose one photo for computer enhancement, then altered it again for the rear view mirror image.  Imagined how fun it would be to see this courthouse plate on many cars driving around Pittsboro!  ~ Sharon Blessum