And this is me!
It’s kind of a long story just how in the world I ended up as an artist dabbling in paper mache, handpainted silk and in the design and creation of rag dolls. Not only is it a weird artistic combination, but it is especially strange considering I started my adult life with a Commerce degree and aspirations of becoming an accountant or a lawyer. Thankfully I realized during the twenty years I spent at home raising my two children that spending my time on creative endeavours was when I was my happiest.
When my children were very small I began working with paper mache. It was perfect. We had little money and the supplies were inexpensive and readily at hand.
Later when Rebecca and Lewis were tweens I happened upon a two night introductory course on silk painting. I had been collecting art books for years that mentioned the art of painting on silk, but without some kind of hands-on instruction I simply couldn’t figure out how to recreate the fabulous colours and designs that were pictured in my books.
After 6 hours of instruction in painting on silk using waterbased dyes, gutta and steam-setting, I was hooked on this medium. For nearly 7 years I experimented, painted and created handpainted silk items. I held studio shows, went in both small and large craft shows and accepted some commission work. But after 7 years I was burnt out.
The year my oldest child left home to begin University I too returned to college to study Interior Decorating. I loved the two year course. Learning the fundamentals of design, the history of furniture and completing the required design projects was exhilarating. My classmates grumbled about having to make floorcloths, throw pillows, models and design boards, while I relished rolling up my sleeves and challenging myself to creatively complete each assignment. But once school was over, I discovered that the people that wanted to hire an Interior Decorator weren’t looking for someone to do DIY projects with their home. Rather they wanted someone to shop for furniture and choose paint colours. And well, that wasn’t me.
For two years I floundered. I hoped that working on decorating my homes and designing my own diy projects would be enough to satisfy my creative desire. It was….until January 2016.
More to follow…….
And everyone is ready to enjoy themselves in my ArtsMarket booth revamp.
Even I was surprised at how long it took me to complete these paper mache hot air balloons, but now that they are flying I’m pleased with the result.
I just finished 3 new girls. Pretty pleased with how they turned out. Take a look below for more detailed photos on each one.
All in pieces and ready to sew together…..
I love her polka dot leggings and the detail on her shoes. I think her matching saddlebag is a nice touch too.
This is the second ballerina that I’ve made. The first sold so quickly, I couldn’t resist making another one. However, since each doll is one-of-a-kind, this one is an original dressed in a new “happy” pink polkadot leotard.
And of course, her tutu is removable.
And here’s my cat-loving girl in pieces. The little pocket on her back is for Kitty!
Ta da!
Hope you like! If you’re in the Toronto area you can find them for sale, and desperately looking for a happy and loving home, at the Leslieville ArtsMarket, 1114 Queen Street East.
This is Hortensia and her friend Lil’ Neigh. She’s a fine little cowgirl with oodles of detail. Perfect for any little equestrian in your life.
Lil’ Dude is my new boy friend. Handmade with love, he’s soft and fun. With hoodie and runners he’s ready for an afternoon of adventure with a special friend.
I think this paper mache deer that has been decoupaged in script would look perfect hanging in a rustic Canadian cabin. What do you think?
Tiny BalleTina is ready for her debut. With her removable tutu, ballet slippers and her high bun she’s perfect for the stage and your own little ballerina.
With bowtie, suspenders and fancy pants Timmy is dressed to head out on the town. Finishing off his statement look are his red spectacles and matching red leather shoes. He’s a dandy doll!
Go Design Yourself 