"Contrast of Light" by Yumi Climenson at Gallery 21

                       IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

Hello All,

We all need a little contrast in our lives, as Yumi Climenson reminds us this year, in her annual exhibition at Gallery 21 located in Spanish Village Art Center.  Each year, Yumi gives us another look at the importance of "Light" in our lives.  I can't wait to see which aspect of the light she will present in her collection for this show.  I am sure it will be thought provoking and enlightening as always.

So, I will be stopping in to the Gallery mid-week to visit with Yumi as she explains the essence and motivation for each painting.  I never miss an opportunity to see Yumi Climenson or her paintings.  And, neither should all of you.

See you all at Gallery 21.  It is an exhibition and a "light" experience you won't want to miss.  I promise you that Yumi will "light up your lives" with the "Contrast of Light" imbued in her paintings, and her gentle invitation to open your minds to the "Light".

                                          Yumi Climenson, artist and portrayer of "Light"



Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, text and content copyrighted, 2013, all rights reserved

Catnip Connection VI...(That's 6 Meows, Folks)!

                                                 "Go Green", painting by Padgett Mason
                                                 IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


Meow, meow, meow, meow, meow...and, Meow!

Well, did you think this kitty was kidding?  That's 6, "count 'em"...6 meows for  "Catnip Connection 6", opening soon in Gallery 21 at Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park.  We all love cats...and, those of you who don't (what's the matter with you?) will still be as happy as a "kitty who stole the cream" with the upcoming exhibition.

Catnip Connection 6 will be showing in Gallery 21 located in Spanish Village Art Center at 1770 Village Place, San Diego, California, 6/20-7/2/12 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm. daily.  For those artists who love depicting cats in their artwork, submissions are due on 6/20/12 at the gallery between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

As usual, a portion of the sales from the exhibition will be donated to the Feral Cat Coalition, an organization offering spay/neuter clinics for stray cats in San Diego County.

So, we will see you there...all of you "Cat Lovers", and all of you who "Love to laugh at cats".  I promise that Catnip Connection 6 won't disappoint you, whichever side you stand on.  I'm sure you'll be purring when you leave the gallery, just like the "cat who caught the canary".  Don't believe me?  Just ask a cat!

MEOW, MEOW, MEOW, MEOW, MEOW...and MEOW!!!!!!


For more information, and to register for the show contact Vicky DeLong (Studio 16B in Spanish Village Art Center) at  vbde@cox.net  or, call at (619) 850-6637.  You may also inquire with Marji Huntington at  marjih@earthlink.net or, call at (619) 640-2094.


Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, text and content copyrighted, 2012, all rights reserved

Yumi Climenson...following the "Path of Light"

Hello All,

Once again, Gallery 21 welcomes Yumi Climenson back for her annual exhibit, "Path of Light". We have traveled many paths with Yumi over the past years, and this year the "path" is, as always, illuminated by the "Light" inherent within Yumi, and in us all. I believe that is how Yumi would express it.

"Path of Light" promises to be a unique experience. How can it not with Yumi as our guide, or perhaps I should say, "...as Yumi reveals the vista along the way". Knowing her as I do, Yumi does not lead or force us to follow a path of her choosing. Rather, she invites us all to explore the path of illumination as a means of evolving...a journey (if you would) of enlightenment.

You see, and I haven't even seen the show yet. I suppose I am still basking in the "light" of her past exhibitions, all dealing with "light" in some form. So, Gallery 21 and Yumi Climenson invite you all to come and experience "Path of Light". Perhaps, we will leave the show with a modicum of that aura exuded by Yumi, and find our feet once more upon the path...

Yumi will be waiting to welcome you on the "Path of Light".



Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, text and content copyrighted, 2012, all rights reserved

Kaleidoscope V - Accent on Watercolor

"Sharing Secrets", pastel by Glen Maxion

IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

Hello All,

Now showing at Gallery 21 in Spanish Village Art Center:  Kaleidoscope V, presented by Accent on Watercolor, an amazing group of watercolorists and one fantastic pastel artist.   Hence the image of the charming pastel, "Sharing Secrets", above by Glen Maxion.  This is an amazing group of watercolor artists, and Glen, the pastel expert, who might be thought of as cream on top of the cherries.  When I visited the exhibit yesterday, with my friend Yumi Clemenson, I was entranced by the amount of talent and variety of subject matter of the eight artists, and the works that comprise this show.

Kaleidoscope V runs March 14 - 26, 2012 from 11:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily at Gallery 21 in Spanish Village Art Center, located in Balboa Park at 1770 Village Place, San Diego, California.  You will, surely, be mesmerized by the wealth of subject matter and expertise of technique that the artists exhibit in their artwork.  Watercolor is a medium that demands a finite touch and a true understanding of balance...ie. "knowing when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em", so to speak...a necessary "less is more" approach.  Pastel demands no less attention and awareness of feeling and application.  They are both media that require a "slow hand and a smooth touch".  A lightness of being and a genuine sense for perfection.  The Accent on Watercolor artists embody these traits and much, much more.

The eight artists of Kaleidoscope V are:  Beverly Franklin, Kathleen Franklin, Elaine Harvey, Pauline Marks, Glen Maxion, June Maxion, Joan McKasson and Judy Morgan.

So get down to Gallery 21 folks, and see this amazing group of artists.  They'll "keep a light on for you"!

As usual, I have to run to the studio, but I promise to get back to you all soon with some more news on the Accent on Watercolor presentation of Kaleidoscope V showing at Gallery 21.  Just feast your eyes on this painting by Joan McKasson.

                             "Garden Poppy Cascade", watercolor by Joan McKasson
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...And, on this beauty.  Oh, the "colors of the wind".  In this case, the colors of Kathleen Franklin!

                                    "Casa Colores", watercolor by Kathleen Franklin
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Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, text and content copyrighted 2012, all rights reserved

37th Annual Small Image Show Winners!!!

                                
                      Sue Bakely, "Two Visionaries", mixed media/porcelain
                      PHOTOGRAPHS ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED



Hello, Hello All,

Well here they are...those well deserved honorees of the 37th Annual Small Image Show.  Topping off the list is one of my favorite artists, the ever imaginative and immensely talented, Sue Bakely, 1st Place winner for her "Two Visionaries", mixed media and porcelain.  Sue is a champion of the "small but mighty" depiction of imaginative images as the first place award testifies.  "Here, here!  Sue Bakely, "front and center".  Lady take a bow!"

Hot on her heels is Linda Kardoff, Second Place winner for "Midnight Schemer", mixed media.  You will remember this image from my last blog of the "fiery redhead" with the dark look of treacherous imaginings in her mien.  I was so taken with the emotion in this miniature painting, that I stood mesmerized in front of it for several minutes.  The detail and use of creative brushstrokes in this painting is marvelous!  As they say, "Good things come in small packages."  You've got that right, Linda.  Congratulations, girl!

    
                        Linda Kardoff, "Midnight Schemer", mixed media
                        PHOTOGRAPHS ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED 



Rounding out the terrific threesome is accomplished Jack Wade, Third Place winner with his "Camouflage", fused glass.  (Sorry, girls, the fellas have to represent, too!)  Jack's glass panel does indeed hold a cleverly camouflaged image of a seated lady nestled among the many flecks of color, embedded in the glass composition.  Nice touch, Jack.  This piece reminds me of cameos in my Grandmother's jewelry box.  And, Jack, that's a big "Plus" in my book.  Well done, maestro...well done!


The coveted Leslie von Kolb Memorial Award for $100 went to one of my favorite ceramists, Mary Cuzick for "Bowl", clay.  Mary creates the most delicate porcelain ceramics I have seen.  Each piece is created with love and dedication to detail, and anyone viewing them or touching them, can easily channel Mary's sense of rhythm and balance that is tantamount when creating her masterpieces.  As you can see, folks...I'm "not too" impressed with Mary Cuzick.  Mary, "Throw down, girl!"

Oops, gotta run to the studio, as usual.  I'll be back in a jiff with the scoop on the winners of the Purchase Awards and the Gift Certificates.  I know...I know.  You'll wait with bated breath!  It will be worth it , I assure you.


February 17, 2012

Okay, I am back to continue with the awards.  The five Purchase Awards went as follows:

1.  Jim Brown Memorial by Cecile Brown - $100, Elizabeth Woolrych for "Magic Within",
     sagger fired clay

2.  William Hudlow - $100, Shaun Craig for "Liquid Ice", porcelain

3.  William Hudlow - $100, Vanessa Backer for "Flower Box #1", mixed media ceramic, wood,
      plaster

4.  Marvin Miles - $100, Merle Lambeth for "Coming Up for Air", clay

5.  Y. Sachiko Kahtsu and Tom Held - $200, Sally Ault for "Green Sea Urchin Box", mixed media


The Gift Certificates were awarded to the following artists:

*  Freeform Clay - $50, Shaun Craig for "Liquid Ice", porcelain
*  Artist & Craftsman Supply - $25, Margaret Gordon-Espe for "Media Pouch", leather and
    $25, Suzanne La Joie for "Horse IV", mixed collage
*  Valley Moulding - $50, Beverly Brock for "Dune Walker", photography and
    $25, Susan Salazar for "Oriental Red", mixed media collage
    $25, Chris Stell for "Dichro Disks", fused glass
*  Spanish Village Art Center (Dick Blick gift certificate) - $50, Joan Nies for "Medieival View",
    etching

Congrats to all!  You have given us another year of fantastic art, and we thank you all for your dedication in making the 37th Annual Small Image Show the "best ever"!  As they say, "Good things come in small packages" (in this case...dimensions), and we certainly have been given such a  gift at this year's exhibition.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.  Same time, same station next year...


Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, text and content copyrighted, 2012, all rights reserved

The 37th Annual Small Image Show is Open!

OMG, Folks.  Just take a Preview Look!!

      "Midnight Schemer", mixed media by Linda Kardoff
       IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


Gotta run to the studio, but I just had to give you all a quick peek at the FANTASTIC work of some of the artists in this year's 37th Annual Small Image Show at Gallery 21, located in Spanish Village Art Center at 1770 Village Place, San Diego, California.  The show just opened and is, I have to say, (so does Monique Straub, pastel artist in studio 34B) one of the best, if not "the best" I have witnessed.  WOW...and then some!  As I said, I have to run to the studio, so I will continue the commentary later.  But, just to whet your appetite, here are a few of the amazing art pieces that you will see in the exhibition.  There are so many, it is difficult to choose a favorite, but I'll give it a whirl after the reception.

                     "Two Visionaries", porcelain mixed media by Sue Bakely                                 
                     IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

                   "Media Pouch", leather by Margaret Gordon-Espe                                   
                   IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

            "Horse IV", Mixed collage by Suzanne LaJoie
            IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

        "Blue Ring Teapot", clay by Vaughan Nelson
        IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

               "Cat and Mouse", mixed media by Mimi Levinson
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How's that for star quality?  I visited the show, briefly, yesterday and I am clearly impressed.  You will be, too.  The opening reception is on January 28, 2012 from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., with fantastic cuisine and musical ambiance, gratis.   But, don't worry.  I won't keep you hanging until then.

I'll be back in a jiff to fill you in on the Winners of the competition, and Who's Who among Purchase Awards recipients.   Can you say...TALENT (three times in a row...real fast)?


Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, text and content copyrighted, 2012, all rights reserved

Call for 37th Annual Small Image Show in Gallery 21

Event photography by Rose Stepan Photography

IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

A CALL FOR ARTISTS, ALL MEDIA: 


Hello All,

It's that time again, when Gallery 21 in Spanish Village Art Center hosts the Annual Small Image Show.  This is the 37th Annual Small Image Show, and of course we are proud to present this much loved event each year.  Over the years the Small Image Show has grown and become a time-honored and much anticipated exhibition for artists and art enthusiasts alike.  The show is scheduled to run from January 25 - February 27, 2012.  Gallery 21 will be open daily from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., where one or more of the participating artists will be there to greet guests.  In conjunction with the show, the Opening Reception will be on Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

The mission statement for the Annual Small Image Show is to provide a unique challenge for the artist by utilizing a small image concept in the widest range of visual expression.  Art is accepted in the following categories:  Oils, Watercolors, Acrylics, Printmaking, Photography, Sculpture, Enamels, Fibers, Mixed, Ceramics, Glass, Wood, Jewelry, Digital and all Media.  All submissions must be made by the artist.

                                            IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED
                                  "Two Pieces of View", by Vicki Leon, glass artist


Delivery of artwork for the jury process has a deadline of Friday, January 13, 2012 (1:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., and Saturday, January 14, 2012 (10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.), at Gallery 21, Spanish Village Art Center, 1770 Village Place, San Diego, California, 92101.

The competition is open to all artists.  All work must be original and completed within the last year.  Work done under the supervision of an instructor, or work requiring special installation or handling will not be accepted.

Preparation and (required) specifications for juried work is:  Artwork measures no more than 10" in any direction (or dimension), including frame, base and display.  (Qualifying criteria for acceptance in the competition)

With your participation and support, let's make this another fantastic year for the 37th Annual Small Image Show and competition.  I can hardly wait to meet all of you at Gallery 21, and experience the magnificence of your artistic expression.  So, hurry.  Don't hesitate...just step right up "artisanos".  The long line starts to the right!  I'll be the one with the BIG smile!

For more detailed information and entry forms for the 37th Annual Small Image show, visit:  www.gallery21art.com.

Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, content and text copyrighted, 2012, all rights reserved

7 Printmakers Return to Gallery 21

   "Summer", drypoint and roullette by IGOR KOUTSENKO, printmaker
   IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


Hello All,

Heads up!  Those fabulous 7 Printmakers are back at Gallery 21, and the exhibit is as fantastic as last year's.  This is the group's 17th Annal Exhibition featuring Jacqueline Dotson, Kathleen McCord, Julianne Ricksecker, Sfona Pelah and Angelika Villagrana.  There are two new guest artists in the show this year.  They are Igor Koutsenko and Beth March.  The exhibition runs 11/2 - 11/14, 2011 at Gallery 21.  It is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  As always, the talented and congenial artists are waiting to welcome visitors to the show, and share the printmaking experience with them.

I popped in yesterday, after returning from a 3 week vacation, and was so pleased to see the show.  These dedicated souls never cease to amaze me with their vision, and their capable transference of these visions to their avid admirers and collectors.  It is a "must see" show for everyone.  I will revisit the gallery on Saturday, and really peruse each piece.

"Untitled" monoprint by SFONA PELAH, printmaker




























"Books and Oil Lamp", digital print by
SFONA  PELAH, printmaker




For now here are some photos to whet your appetite.  Believe me, folks, there is much, much more at the 7 Printmakers 17th Annual Exhibition to charm and amaze you.  The diversity and magnitude of the work done by these artists is second to none.  Each piece is an exquisite masterpiece that compels one to stop and experience a feeling, moment or mood captured to perfection.  Once again, the 7 Printmakers prove their dedication to their art, and skills that are continually growing.

We (artists and collectors, alike) can all take a lesson from these "7"... and, strive to "up our game!"  A continual quest to research, learn and grow.  An ongoing expansion of oneself and one's skills, and then, expressing this in one's art is, to me, the quintessential goal of an artist. You have my word, folks, the "magnificent 7" stand and deliver this quintessence every time.

                       "Mystic Falls", monotype by JULIANNE RICKSECKER, printmaker
                       IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED



"Flirtatious", intaglio by JACQUELINE DOTSON, printmaker


























"Palm Canyon Falls", etching and aquatint by JULIANNE RICKSECKER, printmaker

   "Barmaid", intaglio by KATHLEEN McCORD, printmaker
   IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

                         "Rainy Day", intaglio by JACQUELINE DOTSON, printmaker
                         IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


I am so excited to return to the show for a second look, and to take it all in.  I can hardly wait.  See all of you enthusiasts there.  Oh, and yes, all of you who want to "Up your Game".  These amazing
7 Printmakers can teach you a thing or two!

"Balboa Park", woodcut by IGOR KOUTSENKO, printmaker

IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

The 7 Printmakers are independent artists living in San Diego County.  For more information, and their resumes, please refer to my blog entitled, "7 Printmakers Make Their Mark at Gallery 21", dated 10/23/10.


Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, text and content copyrighted, 2011, all rights reserved

Don't Tango in Berlin...or, You may never leave the City

                  "La Fille du Desert", Guy Mayenobe, Photographer
                  IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


Hello All,

As promised, I am giving you a followup blog on the fantastic photographic exhibit, "Don't Tango in Berlin" (or, you may never leave the city), presented by Janine Free and Guy Mayenobe at Gallery 21, September 21 - October 3, 2011.

You know, I have known a few amazing photographers in my life, all of exceptional talent and vision.  But, as much as I appreciate and support their work, I have to say that I have never met or seen better than Janine Free and Guy Mayenobe, strictly from an artistically visionary standpoint.  I am always astonished and completely fulfilled by their work which is like no other that I have seen.  Simply, intriguing.

Guy's usual work (Can one even call it that?) takes unlike elements of real life objects, and layers them with still life forms such as mannequins or inanimate objects.  The resulting effect is one of almost lifelike mannequins with eyes, lips and features, when superimposed onto the plastic form, fool the viewer into taking a second look to determine if what they are seeing is real..."actual".  (As in "La Fille du Desert", shown above.)  In opposition, Guy will use a live model (mannequin en francaise) and, then superimpose inanimate material into the photographic image.  Once again, compelling viewers to "lean in" closer, in an effort to figure out what is "real" and what is make believe.  Oh, that is so clever of you, Guy!


Okay,  it's time for that ''writer's break" that I always mention...stretch my legs, go for coffee.  You know.  Be right back with the "scoop" on "Don't Tango in Berlin".  That's the real scoop that your are anticipating.


Here's a little preview:  "Tiger Woods", by Guy Mayenobe

                    "Tiger Woods", by Guy Mayenobe, Photographer
                    IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED



And, yet another:  "Kreuzbeg Fire Station", by Janine Free

  "Kreuzberg Fire Station", by Janine Free, Photographer    
  IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED



As long as we are on the subject:  "White Trash", by Guy Mayenobe

                    "White Trash", by Guy Mayenobe, Photographer
                    IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED



Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
All images, text and content copyright, 2011, all rights reserved

"There Ain't Nothing Like a Dame,VI"...and How!

                           "REFLECTIONS II", PASTELS BY KAREN HOWARD
                           IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


Hello All,

Well..."They're Back"!  Yeah, you guessed it!  Those incredible Dames who do it All... and, How!  Wow!  Did somebody say, "WOW"?  (Whoo...Whoo)!

                                   "SOPHIA WITH A BALL", WATERCOLOR BY DANA LEVINE
                                    IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


There are six of the incredible "Dames" this year as Shandell Gamer recently moved to Oregon, and will not be participating in the show.  Although the Dames "miss her much", they still carry on with this year's fantastic exhibition, "There Ain't Nothing Like a Dame, VI".  The show runs from August 24 - September 5, 2011 in Gallery 21 at Spanish Village Art Center, located in beautiful Balboa Park at 1770 Village Place, San Diego, California.  The Dames will be there to greet guests from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily.  The Opening Reception is on Saturday, August 27, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

                                          "SUN BLESSED", EN CAUSTIC BY WILMA LOPEZ
                                          IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


This group of artists has been displaying together for 6 years, and you can rest assured that they will be going strong for many years to come.  Speaking of strong, the six "Dames" boast of their individual strengths (in the Arts) with a logo image of a bandanna'ed beauty flexing her (well-muscled) right arm, while wielding a paintbrush and sporting the motto of "Yes, We Can"!  Don't Mess with these Dames.  They are "On the Job"...and then some.

                        "TANGO 4 2", FUSED GLASS BY MARCY STINTON
                        IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


The six Dames are as follows:

Karen Howard, Pastels, Dana Levine, Photography and Pastel, Wilma J. Lopez, En Caustic
Eileen Mandell, Photography, Caroline Morse, Oil, Acrylic, Photography and Marcy Stinton, Fused Glass

That's what is known as a "Line Up and a Half", folks.  So, do get yourselves and your "Best Gal" (pal) in to see these six magnificent Dames, and "There Ain't Nothing Like a Dame, VI".  I promise, you won't be disappointed!  They really are "Something Else"!

                    "MUSEUM OF MAN FROM ALCAZAR GARDENS" BY EILEEN MANDELL
                    IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


Don't just take my word for it.  Drop into Gallery 21 in Spanish Village Art Center, and see for yourselves.  The Magnificent Six (Dames) will be waiting for you!  Sharing their art is something they love.  Who knows, maybe some of that "Dame-ness" will rub off on you.

                                   "BATIQUITOS LAGOON", OILS BY CAROLINE MORSE
                                   IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


For further information on all of the artists (Dames) in this exhibition, please go to my blog, "There's Nothing Like a Dame, V", written on 9/22/10 for their bios.  Impressive?  You bet!  Haven't you heard?  There Ain't Nothing Like a Dame!


Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
text and content copyrighted, 2011, all rights reserved

Catnip Connection 5 - "Meow"!

"In Your Face" by artist, ALLY BENBROOK
IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


Hello All!

All of you,  "Cat Lovers" out there, that is.  It's coming again, the much anticipated annual "Catnip Connection 5".  Coming soon to Gallery 21 is the always winsome and entertaining exhibit of (you got it) "Cats, cats and more...Cats"! Did anyone say, "CATS"? Hurray!  The Fifth Annual juried exhibition is scheduled to run from June 15 - 27, 2011 at Gallery 21 in Spanish Village Art Center.   We are located at 1770 Village Place in Balboa Park.

The all media exhibition is set to honor animals of the FELINE persuasion, which includes domestic and wild species alike.  As always, the participants will donate a portion of the proceeds from the show to the Feral Cat Coalition.  The coalition is an organization offering spay and neuter clinics for stray cats in San Diego County.

This year's exhibition is sure to be a marvelous display of the Ferocious, Fastidious, Fantastic and Free-wheeling life of the Feline!  So, mark your calendars.  The reception for artists will be held on Sunday, June 19, 2011 from 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.  Awards will be presented at 5:30 p.m., so you don't want to miss it.

For more information, contact Vicki DeLong at (619) 850-6637, or email at: vbde@cox.net.

See you there.  "C'est les chattes...and that's, that!"  Prrrrrrrr...


Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
text and content copyrighted, 2011, all rights reserved

Allied Artists Association Arrives at Gallery 21

"Hidden World", watercolor by MARK SMITH
IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

Hello All,

It's a new year and an all new roster at Gallery 21 in Spanish Village Art Center, located at 1770 Village Place in Balboa Park. Gallery 21 is proud to present the Allied Artists Association of San Diego, in their 2011 All Members' Show.  Exhibit runs 2/23/11 - 3/7/11, and is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  The opening reception is Sunday, 2/27/11 from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

The current exhibit features 32 fabulous artists who work in media including photography (traditional and digital), oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, pastel, silk painting, encaustic, printmaking, ceramic and mixed media. That's quite a playbill, don't you think? I visited the gallery today, and was amazed at the variety of style and expertise in the artists' renderings.

Awards are for Outstanding Art in the following categories:

1st Place - $100, 2nd Place - $75 and 3rd Place - $50
Honorable Mention Certificates will also be awarded.

I will attend the opening reception on Sunday, and fill you in on the award recipients. I've got my favorites, but I will wait to see what the juror and the People's Choice selections are.

Back tomorrow with the results. "Anticipation...anticipation", I know!


Monday, 2/28/11 1:20 p.m.

Well, the reception was a great success with a marvelous turnout by patrons and artists alike. The quality of art in this show certainly commands attendance. Now for news of the awards for the show. This year's recipients are:

1st Place Winner - Joan Everds for "Lily", photograph
2nd Place Winner - Jackie Myers for "Midnight Strikes", acrylic
3rd Place Winner - Alicia Tirado for "Turquoise Waters", colored pencil

Honorable Mention - Vicky DeLong for "Flock", ceramic vase
Honorable Mention - Edwin H. Wordell for "Symbolic", mixed media collage

The People's Choice award will be awarded at the end of the show when all votes are tallied.  I, easily, cast my vote, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed while sending out good "vibes" to my favorite.  (You know who you are...) Ask me no secrets...

"St. Mary River", monotype by JULIANNE RICKSECKER
IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


The Allied Artists Association of San Diego shows its work once a year at the Riford Center in La Jolla, California, and their artwork is permanently on display in a window gallery setting in the Emerald Building in downtown San Diego.


With a motto of "Many Artists. One Passion", the Allied Artists Association of San Diego is a multi-talented group of artists that represents a broad spectrum of art media and photographic arts. They may be contacted individually or through their website at: www.aaasd.us. P.O. Box 181325, Coronado, California 92178. For further info, contact Vicky DeLong at: 619) 850-6637.


Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
text and content copyrighted, 2011, all rights reserved

There is a Reason... Turn, Turn, Turn

IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED


Hello All,

To every season (turn, turn,turn) there is a reason (turn, turn turn)! Or should I say, "Through every season (turn, turn, turn), they have a reason (turn, turn, turn)". The San Diego County Carvers Guild members certainly embody this sentiment season after season, and year after year. They are currently "turning" through their 13th Annual Wood Turners Show at Gallery 21 in Spanish Village Art Center located at 1770 Village Place, San Diego, California. The show runs 12/8/10 - 1/3/11. The Wood Carvers Guild members are on site from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily to greet visitors, and to demonstrate their latheing skills at entrance of the gallery.

When entering the gallery, my eye was met by an amazing array of wood vases, bowls, standing sculpture, wall pieces and hand carved toys. Every type and color of wood imaginable was on display, at least to my knowledge. I am sure the San Diego County Carvers Guild members would debate this point with me, saying that there are untold numbers and combinations of glowing and earthy woods to choose from when it comes to wood turning. In view of that logic, I probably would agree with them. Certainly, Mother Nature's bounty seems, at times, "limitless".


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This group of artisans, although extremely talented, have a modesty and well grounded approach to their craft. Enthusiastically, but quietly, going about their work, they are informative and skilled at the lathe and with carving tools of the trade. At any time, one may ask them questions about the variety and properties of the various woods available for turning. Ever knowledgeable, each member that I spoke to, unhesitatingly, volunteered information and valuable instruction on the process of turning, and the many aspects of creating with wood.


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The members of the San Diego County Carver's Guild, and their personal biographies can be researched on their website. Each bio is a testament to their approach to their craft, and gives much insight into each artisans creativity, as well as the background that they bring to their art.

Perhaps this is a bit biased, but, I am particularly fond of Carol Martin's lovely hand carved doors. They are intricately carved and never cease to amaze me with their refined lines and compositional design. Her choice of fine woods is, in a word, "exceptional". Nan Bushley is another of my favorites, and is the President of the guild. When I asked Nan if there was any particular information she would like me to write about the guild and the show, she modestly said, "Well, it's our annual show. We have a website". A woman of few words, and real talent.

I think that sums it up for all of the participants of the show. There is no doubt that the members of the guild boast a wide variety of talent, and enjoy an extensive interest in the many facets of wood turning and woodcarving. Whether done by lathe or carved, chipped, sanded and polished by hand, the wood pieces produced by this group are wonderful. Add to their separate talents the beauty and glow of fine and exotic woods, and you have a winning combination. "What a winning hand"! A true compliment to nature, a great accomplishment for themselves and a fantastic gift to wood lovers. There's nothing better than that..."Wood-n't you say"?


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I would like to extend a special thanks to Scott van Hoften, for his assistance in producing photo images of the pieces in this year's show, and for his extra time and dedication in helping me complete this review. Muchas Gracias, Scott!

"To every season...Turn, turn, turn. There is a reason...Turn, Turn, turn".


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The San Diego County Carvers Guild is housed in Spanish Village in Studio 38, and we are especially proud of that fact. The members are there 7 days a week to greet visitors to Balboa Park and Spanish Village Art Center. You can expect a magnificent array and variety of hand carved and lathe turned art pieces when you visit. The collection is quite remarkable, as is each wood carver's approach to his craft.



Written and posted by Cassandra Shepard, Studio 32
text and content copyrighted, 2010, all rights reserved