Trying Something New...

At the moment I've become a bit obsessed with vintage papers.

I think it's the handwriting, (and I think it's because my handwriting is so dreadful!)

I've really enjoyed playing with mixed media and collage.

On some areas there are many layers.

Hope you like!

X

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Reconcilement...

I can't get enough of working with my stash of vintage paper at the minute.

I especially like it when the bits and bobs you've been hanging onto turn out to be the 'perfect fit'.

Just like this 'thingy' (is it a name place holder?) which turned out to be just the ticket for holding up the Queen herself!

(I'd been hanging onto to that for about ten years!)

It was so bloomin' hot yesterday, all I wanted to do was mess around with scrips and scraps, and so one of my strange ladies began to emerge.

A crown seemed most befitting.

And, quite by chance, so did the word 'reconcilement', even more befitting in these crazy times.

(She will be coming along with me to Mrs B's 'Adventures In Mixed Media' workshop at Hope and Elvis on December 3rd, can't WAIT!)

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The Two Princes...

There were once two princes.

But there was only one golden crown.

So the brothers put that in the back of the cupboard,

and wore paper party hats instead.

I've really enjoyed playing around with mixed media this past couple of weeks in preparation for Mrs B's 'Adventures In Mixed Media' workshop, on Saturday December 3rd at the fab Hope and Elvis.

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Jo Smith 'Home'...

Yesterday I visited a wonderful exhibition by the talented textile artist Jo Smith at The Steel Rooms, Brigg.

I have been a fan of Jo's work for a long time and was really excited about seeing it.

'Home. Belong. Belonging. Belongings.'

Jo explores the concept of 'Home' by considering such issues as war and displacement, homelessness, financial austerity and the heartbreaking portrayal of Betty's house, once loved and cherished, and now converted into soul- less flats since Betty passed away.

'Daughter. Little cracks and fractures'.

Embedded thread and cast plaster.

'Displaced Girl, Refugee, Camps'.

Stitched drawing, water colour, printed fabrics.

'Sweet Blue Happiness, Alice'.

There was also some fabulous vintage furniture from Meanwhile which really helped to set the scene.

Someone was rather taken with the chair!

'Home Sweet Home Doily'.

Machine embroidery.

'Gazing Betty'.

'Black Eye'.

Screen printed image and hand stitch.

Image taken from 2006 Women's Aid Campaign.

It never ceases to amaze me how powerful stitch can be.

Perhaps it is because of the historical legacy left by generations of women, or perhaps it is because of the skill and hours of dedication required.

This is a thought provoking and moving exhibition, and I felt very lucky to see first hand the work of such a talented and skilled artist.

 

'Home. Belong. Belonging. Belongings.'

Jo Smith

The Steel Rooms

1-5 Springs Parade

Brigg

North Lincs

2/7/16 -13/8/16

( Please check for opening times and days).

 

 

 

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Step- By-Step...

This painting, entitled 'Grey Hare', is for The Ropewalk Summer Exhibition (25.6.16 - 4.9.16)

I thought I would try to take step- by-step photos during the painting process.

I have to admit that I'm not very good at this as at certain points,(usually when I'm struggling and the canvas is 'fighting back'!) so please forgive the gaps!

I never begin a painting with an idea in my head, I like to see where the mark- making takes me.

I think that it's much more fun!

Well, here goes...

When I have to stop painting I often leave little scribbled notes to myself, so that I know what my 'next move' is.

And here's the final result!
Hope you like!

I shall also be playing with paint and mixed media at the lovely Hope and Elvis in December, so looking forward to the Mrs B Abstraction Weekender!

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A Weekend In Brighton...

I have just spent the most wonderful weekend in Brighton.

I was invited to the wonderful wedding of two past students, and I stayed in a fantastic airbandb with a couple of my lovely chums.

I managed to take in a few of the sights too...

I bloomin' love seagulls I do!

Giant plastic ice cream cone alert!

I have no idea what this had been, a mermaid's house perchance?

We enjoyed a glass of bubbly on the beach after the ceremony.

These aren't my shoes, alas, but this photo sums up the day perfectly.

Having a mooch around The Lanes before the wedding.

I was about to ask 'how much is that doggy in the window' but then I saw the sign!

I think this is my favourite photo!

So, did you want a flake or sprinkles on your Mr Whippy?

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