~Studio Marcy ~ Marcy Lamberson

Discovering the Fountain of Youth

2012-01-29T07:39:00.013-05:00

We're in St Augustine, Florida today trying to discover the Fountain of Youth. If you've seen me recently, you'll know that I haven't found it yet!

Joking aside, this is the real one. And later this week, I'll report on our weekend getaway to the beach and the oldest city in the US, as well as some of our highlights. See you tomorrow!

Soda Lime Times

2012-01-29T07:39:00.012-05:00

I am blown away by Diane Woodall's Soda Lime Times. If you are a beadmaker, you will love this publication.

Diane includes interviews, techniques, fabulous photos, tool reviews, tutorials and just about everything you can think of done with flair. I am impressed with the content, layout and everything else in it and highly recommend it.

You can find information about the Soda Lime Times by clicking here.

Chocolate Covered Bacon

2012-01-27T07:38:00.002-05:00

I just read about Adams Apple, a local candy shop's offering of chocolate covered bacon strips on a stick. Now for me, it's hard to top bacon, but to add chocolate and keep your fingers clean so people don't know what you've been up to. (Nice!)

Adams Apple is located at 114 North Avondale Road, Atlanta GA or you can call them at 404-299-3434.

Electroforming for Jewelry

2012-01-26T06:38:00.002-05:00

This Easy Electroforming for Jewelry book by Denise Peck recently caught my eye and I've been contemplating it ever since.

It's $19.95 and available through the Interweave Store online. If you have it already, could you please comment and let me know your opinion? It's kind of stuck and I am thinking I'd really like to get it.

Tuk-tuk Cab ...Thoughts?

2012-01-25T06:23:00.012-05:00

I saw this wonderful three wheeled Southeastern Asian taxi called a Tuk-tuk. I keep thinking what fun it would be as a mobile glass bead booth for shows. Drive it in and set it up. What do you think? How would you use it, if you owned one?

Poland's Crooked Forest

2012-01-24T07:18:00.009-05:00

Around 1930, this tiny forest of about 400 pine trees was planted in a small area of Poland. Apparently it's not remembered why, after about 7-10 years of growth, someone pushed them down and held them so that they would bend and grow that way.

I'm sure there is plenty of speculation. What do you think? Why would you do something like that in that time frame. I know I've got ideas. Would love to hear your thoughts.

Demopalooza- First Demo- Rick Frank Enamelist

2012-01-23T08:13:00.001-05:00

You know, usually I think the word "amazing" is sometimes overused, but in this case, I don't.

Saturday night's kickoff for Southern Flame's Demopalooza was enamelist, Ricky Frank. Perhaps you've seen him at a really big show, like American Craft Council or similar.

Ricky agreed to make a fully enameled piece in front of our very eyes and he also demoed a second piece to show us some variations. It was great energy. Seems like people who use glass enamels speak some of our same glass language, COE's, color reactions, firing temps and other shared terms were a big part of the evening. But we also sat there "amazed", while watching him put together his pieces while telling stories, his philosophy and chatting with his darling daughter who came along to keep him company.

Ricky used to do more cloisonee work, but has changed his style. He uses the silver or gold wire for emphasis and showed us how he can work without it, while using the enamels. His dexterity and artistry was a delight to behold.

Later this week, I'll go through more of our Sunday line up. For more information and great photos, visit Ricky's website. www.rickyfrank.com or www.rickyfrankenamels.com.

Come Back Tomorrow

2012-01-22T08:10:00.006-05:00

So I can tell you about Demopalooza! I'm at the Southern Flames demo day and soaking up the tips, tricks and awesome glass.

Stop by tomorrow and I'll tell you about it. Promise.

It's Demopalooza Weekend in Atlanta!

2012-01-20T08:06:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year! A day and an evening of wonderful glass and related demos by friends and members of Southern Flames.

This coming Saturday evening we start off with fantastic enamelist, Ricky Frank at 7:15 pm. Sunday at 10 am, professional photographer and beadmaker Kelley Wenzel will be helping us with photo tips and tricks. The day continues with Ali VandeGrift (have you seen her amazing stringer control beads?) Then Val Cox who has recently moved nearby, will be demoing some of her frit and beads, After that, Jack Roberts will work his magic with boro and at 3 pm, Maureen Buckley McRorie will demo soft glass faces. (she makes them look so easy too!) Admission is free, although we're hoping you'll feed our donation box to help cover costs. But we really want you to come and enjoy most of all.

For more information about the demos, bios, directions to Beads by Design in Marietta, Ga, visit our website: Click Here!

Feeling a Little Sheepish

2012-01-19T07:56:00.008-05:00

There is something about this photo that I love. Or perhaps it is many things. I love the muted colors in it, and probably most of all, the texture. I want to reach over and touch this photo. (Good touch- lol!)

Do you have favorite photos that make you want to do more than just look at them? Do you try to figure out why? I'd love to see them- post a link and tell us why it means more to you.

Juried Glass Show Call For Entries - Minnestrista

2012-01-18T06:22:00.010-05:00

GLASS: A JURIED ART SHOW

ENTRY DEADLINE: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24

PRESENTED BY: MINNETRISTA WITH THE MARILYN K. GLICK CENTER FOR GLASS AT BALL STATE UNIVERSITY.

EXHIBITION DATES: MAY 12 THROUGH AUGUST 12, 2012

LOCATION: 1200 N. MINNETRISTA PARKWAY, MUNCIE, IN 47303

i saw this call for artists and thought I'd spread the word. I know some of you have the chops for a show like this. Here are all the details. And let me know if you get in. It looks amazing!

Beads of Courage Pittsburgh Bead

2012-01-17T07:27:00.023-05:00

I have recently committed to making 100 of this bead designed by a 15 year old Pittsburgh Beads of Courage patient. I love the whimsy and fun that it contains. It looks optimistic and hopeful to me.

I exchanged emails with the young designer and she has given me her thoughts, so we can add a small design to the back as well.

First, I need to make the prototype. I've tried a few already and am still working to find the right scale, colors, design and darn it- yellow that doesn't react with the sky blue] base color.

Cute, isn't it?

Can You Tell What He's Doing?

2012-01-15T09:16:00.018-05:00

Have you figured this out already? I love this photo. It's one of many from the very enjoyable site, theanthropologist.net. This is primarily a pictorial tale of fly tier, Shawn Davis. It tells his inspiration for a special fly he created and shows his work, materials and tools up close. Here is a direct link.

Poke around and visit the other stories too. I love the combination of great photos and words- all telling individual's stories of their personal accomplishments- big scope and small, but all are interesting.

Friday the 13th! Just My Luck...

2012-01-13T07:14:00.031-05:00

I guess I am unlucky. I missed Del Monte's David Hasselhoff ice cream, called "The Hoffsicle".

I mean seriously, who wouldn't have bought this just for its great source for jokes? And now I find out Russian company, Stoyn is making iconic character ice cream bars without full distribution in the U.S. Darth is pictured below. Looks refreshing, doesn't it?

So while I consider myself generally lucky, I guess I've missed out on all the ice cream giggles.

If you know of some other ice cream treat that I've missed, please add it to my list. I have a feeling, come hot weather, I'll be on the search again.

Live Broadcasts from Corning

2012-01-12T06:17:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I was delighted to watch some of Loren Stump's live stream from Corning. He was working on a set up for a paperweight and it was *almost* as good as being there. Nothing equals being in the same room with a teacher.

So next Wednesday from 11-12 Eastern, I'm planning on heading back again to Corning's UStream Channel. Lucio Bubacco and Paul Stankard will be live then. (And teaching that class that I really wanted to be in!) So click here for the days and times, as well as the archived streaming. It would be fun if more teaching studios did this.

See you tomorrow. www.studiomarcy.blogspot.com

Pig Charm Necklace

2012-01-11T07:08:00.002-05:00

I was perusing Barney's jewelry section last night and noticed this cute Pig Charm Necklace by Finn. It sells for $3,300.00.

You Pick Bead Exchange

2012-01-10T07:03:00.002-05:00

I have blogged about doing exchanges that stretch what you typically do. And this is one of my favorite ones found on Lampwork Etc. It's called You Pick 7. Each participant posts an inspiration photo and everyone interprets it in the best way that they can.

So...I'm pretty sure you can pick out the bead that I made for this photo above.

This one, was one of the hardest for me. I know, it should have been easy, but finding the right colors and the gentle gradations of it, felt tough. What would you have done?

This is the photo that I chose for others to make. I love the organic forms and I thought that these colors were represented in both CiM and Moretti- and that it might be something that a beginner through advanced glass beadmaker might be able to interpret. After I chose it, I saw one of this series by Matisse at our Atlanta Hight Art Museum up close. It was pretty amazing.

If you would like to see more photos and the conversation about the exchange, pop by here.

If you were choosing art for others to interpret, do you know which piece you'd choose? Tell us. and if you have a link, we'd love to see that too.

Tumbleweed Chandelier

2012-01-09T07:56:00.015-05:00

Having lived in windy Wyoming, I am very aware of the natural element...tumbling tumbleweeds. Often we'd see them rolling across roads, until they would get caught up in a fence.

I even saw Christmas trees made out of masses of them.

But the other day, I ran into this easy to assemble tumbleweed chandelier. From the instructions posted, you just find a nice specimen of tumbleweed and attach a light strand and wire the light into place. I like that. Finding a function out of a renewable resource.

Now, if we could only find some great uses for the kudzu that is always spreading in Georgia. ...ideas?

Ode to Organic Shapes and Bok Choy

2012-01-08T09:51:00.018-05:00

I love the shape and look of this small bok choy. See how the colors change in it? They just flow in a gradient manner. And the rounded lower end which slims down and then gracefully flares out in deeper shades of leafy green, is really pretty to me.

Do you quietly admire a shape or coloration of an often admired item? What is it?

Little Tiny Mermaids Swimming Away...

2012-01-06T07:47:00.001-05:00

I'm in a "Beach" themed charm exchange and these little ladies are headed to the organizer to be doled out. Each one is under an inch tall. I enjoyed working so tiny and have kept some other ones that have even more details on them. (Love my magnifiers!)

Now, we just need a nice warm beach to complete the picture.

Adventures in Atlanta's Chinatown

2012-01-05T08:21:00.000-05:00

Last night I went on an adventure tour of Atlanta's Chinatown. It's a small area that I had never seen before, but lots of fun. We started off with a seven course Szechuan dinner. And in my quest to try new things- yes, that is squid and tofu below.

And after our dinner, we went on a tour of Chinese grocery store, where I found all kinds of things I hadn't tasted before. Like this grass jelly.

(I didn't buy this) But I did pick up some Chinese New Year candies and other items.
And our final stop was a Chinese bookstore, where I was glad to see Steve Jobs translated into Chinese.

And we ended the evening in the tea room of the bookshop, we listened to a musician playing Mandarin Pop guitar music. Lots of fun. And looking forward to going back some time and bringing my friends.

Just Met Muno

2012-01-04T13:32:00.001-05:00

So I recently found out about Yo Gabba Gabba's Muno. One eyed and quite orange, he was a request for a Dream Bead from Beads of Courage.

When making these beads, I think about the age of the recipient and try to make them so they will be "durable". The one I made is a little shorter and wider in proportion, but according to some little children, they knew who it was immediately. Whew!

Here is quick photo of my bead.

And he's on his way to his new owner as I write.

Beads of Courage is a wonderful program for sick kids. By collecting beads, it gives them and others a visual sense of the journey that they are traveling to get better. If you aren't familiar with it, you can find it here. It's so nice as a glass artist to have place that can use my skills to give back to others. I'm hoping all my glass friends out there remember this wonderful program and donate beads when they can.

Prickly Diamonds

2012-01-03T07:49:00.000-05:00

While on my hunt for interesting vintage or antique jewelry, I came across this Thistle Brooch from 1950. I love the design of it. But for the life of me, I have no earthly idea where I could ever wear it.

(Guess it's a good thing that I can just lust after it instead.)

See you tomorrow!

If You Bead, You Have To See This...Beaded Laughter

2012-01-02T06:30:00.018-05:00

I haven't laughed this hard in a long time. Pop over to my friend, Sylvie Lansdowne's funny new blog...and be ready to smile. (I'm thinking I might need to print this photo!
Just click here to go...hurry!

New Year Resolutions?

2012-01-01T07:52:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year. Wishing you great health, lots of happiness, and being surrounded by people you love. I've decided to leave out the wealth concept. Of course I wish financial success to everyone, but I'm more of the opinion that it comes with hard work, not wishes so much.

Have you made New Year's Resolutions? This is what I'm thinking...

In 2012, I'm on the corner of Same Old Way and Something New. I've found over the years that making resolutions sometimes works and of course, sometimes not.

So I've decided to do it differently this time around. (I guess heading down Something New lane...)
I think I want to do something kind of like a mission statement and have my business and art decisions center around it. If they don't reinforce or support it somehow, then I'd better have a really good reason. I'm still contemplating this idea. Do you operate this way? It seems to me that financial goals are just a part of it. I want to include artistic vision as well as artistic goals. More like a big picture and then supporting action plans...I think. Looking forward to hearing what you do and how you do it. We can all learn. See you tomorrow!

What Makes Jewelry "Modern"?

2011-12-31T07:52:00.001-05:00

This is a necklace and bangle that I recently ran across online. Pretty modern looking, isn't it?

What struck me, is that it was created by Jean Fouquet in the 1930's. It's made from ebony, chrome and gold. And yet, if I were looking at it, I could have been mistaken and thought it was recently designed. Do you agree?

Which made me wonder, "what design elements makes something look modern"? Tell me what you think? Is it spare and clean lines? Something more geometric than not? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Gorgeous 1926 Evening Bag

2011-12-29T07:51:00.001-05:00

This 1926 Van Cleef & Arpels Odalisque Evening Bag makes my mouth water. It includes diamonds, rubies, enamel, gold and the original embroidered fabric.

Huey the Color Copying Chameleon Lamp

2011-12-28T07:51:00.001-05:00

Huey is an electronic glowing chameleon lamp that changes colors with whatever he sits on. Either he's extra smart, or perhaps it's the optical sensor that adjusts the LED's in his body to the correct color.

Huey is available on one of my favorite websites: ThinkGeek. Here is the link. Pretty reasonably priced, isn't he?

Post Christmas Blues? Here's an Idea

2011-12-27T07:51:00.001-05:00

I understand that sometimes people feel a little blue after the magic of Christmas is over. I tend to feel a little sad beforehand, as I miss my daughter who is far away, but I understand that it can affect people in different ways.

So I think one of the ways to battle the blues is get out and create your own magic.

I have recently found a website that I really enjoy. It's www.marcandangel.com. Have you seen it?
One of their posts is "10 Ways to Create Your Own Luck". I like that. Our family always says, "the harder we work, the luckier we are."

So here are their 10 points to make your own luck...and to read what they say about each point and check out their website, (which I REALLY like), click here.

1. Constantly Try New Things
2. Think About How Lucky You Are Right Now
3. Notice Little Things and Solve Small Problems
4. Work on Things You're Passionate About
5. Establish Relationships with People Who Share Your Interests
6. Help Others Out When You're Able
7. Take Calculated Risks
8. Pay Close Attention to the Present
9. Identify The Lesson
10. Work Toward Your Goals Every Day Without Fail

Makes a lot of sense, doesn't it? As we're making our New Year's Resolutions, perhaps some of these might be good to consider for a 2012 emphasis.

See you tomorrow...www.studiomarcy.blogspot.com

Post Christmas Ideas

2011-12-26T07:50:00.001-05:00

Oh sure. I bet you received some great gifts and have already delved a bit into them. But are you like me, that all the leftover debris from the wrapping feels a little wasteful?

If the paper is pristine, I re-use it and definitely the bows. Some ends up rather shredded and gets recycled. But sometimes there is some cool paper that is between both of those parameters

.

I saw these decoupaged wooden bangle bracelets on www.finecraftguild.com and thought it could be a fun activity...either with adults or with kids. And if you don't have some old bangles, I wouldn't be surprised if your local resale shop might have some for just a little more than a song.

Here are the directions. And if you have time, this is a fun website to check out. Hope your day is great.

Merry Christmas to All!

2011-12-25T07:50:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas to all.

And to my daughter in Antarctica, Sparky, I love you and miss you so much. Christmas isn't the same without you, but I'm so happy you're doing what you love. We'll have fun when you next visit.

(penguins, courtesy of Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas- this kind even knows how to skate!)

The Stockings Were Hung By The Chimney

2011-12-24T07:48:00.002-05:00

A while ago, one of my customers asked me whether I could make christmas lights about 3/8" long including a hole for stringing. She was making a special Christmas stocking for her daughter and didn't want to use the little plastic ones from the craft store.

At first I wondered how I could do it, but after a few attempts, it wasn't so hard. You can see her gorgeous holiday stocking here and the tiny little glass lights used for embellishment. I hope others making special items will think of me when they need little details to add to their art.

And here's the big picture.

Wishing you a perfect night before Christmas. May you feel blessed whatever your beliefs.

Funky Pet Houses

2011-12-23T07:49:00.000-05:00

In my travels around the city last week, I ran into a couple of cool pet houses. As the wire is not very strong, I'm guessing they're for birds or some docile pet.

They're pretty cool, no matter what. Kind of rustic and funky- I think they'd be fun if they were just filled with plants...and maybe some climbers on the outside. What do you think?

Christmas Decorations in Murano and Venice

2011-12-22T07:48:00.001-05:00

Dear Fellow Glass Peeps,
I'm subscribed to the newsletter from venetianbeadshop.com, and always enjoy their local photos of Venice and Murano. After visiting and taking a class in Murano with Lucio Bubacco, the memories and wish to return are always present.

*flower shop in Venice, below (I could get lost faster in Venice than any other city, I think!- but what a city!)

So I'm sharing just a few photos from the newsletter, but if you want to see more, please visit their website and learn a little bit about the local life through their eyes.

*restaurant in Murano, below (Waking up and looking out to the boats and sunrise each morning on Murano was so touching to me. It really grabbed my heart. And being around so many other people who love glass too.)

All photos from VenetianBeadShop.com....

In Love with T.U.K. Shoes

2011-12-21T07:47:00.000-05:00

At Southern Flames last week, my friend Sara Beach was wearing these adorable shoes. I love them! (Being rather ancient, I wasn't aware of the brand.)

T.U.K. makes a lot of really cool styles that you can see here.

I like this maryjane pump too...I know, it's not my normal shoe style, but it's fun and would look great with black slacks.

You can find T.U.K. shoes in a variety of places, like zappo.com, endless.com and even one of my favorite shopping sites, Amazon.com. And by the way, I did get shoes just like Sara's, but I promise not to wear them in any place that she will be. I'll be wearing them to shows that I'm doing, teaching glass and of course around town.

Sunset

2011-12-20T07:47:00.002-05:00

This is the sunset from my front door. Feeling pretty lucky to have something so beautiful to see each day. Wishing you peace and serenity in these busy days.

New Hair Studio That Is Nothing Like You've Seen Before.

2011-12-19T07:47:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago, my long time hair stylist, oil painting friend Adam opened up his own hair studio in Atlanta. I've always loved his style- often taking vintage pieces and making them fresh with a bit of an edge, so I wasn't surprised that I fell in love immediately with the decor of his two chair salon within his furniture and art shop that he owns with his delightful partner, Chris.

So the first photo is of his waiting area. The coffee table is due to be delivered any day now.

Here is one of the two chairs with vintage cowboy print for the hair dryers. I have to say, it is comfy! I sank back into it and he brought over a foot stool, because my feet didn't touch the floor. ( I felt like that Lily Tomlin character!)

And of course I need to show you my new hair. Adam added "cinnamon" color for the holidays. I feel festive and never have had red like this in my hair. Woot!

I have a feeling this place will end up in some style magazine, so when that happens, you'll have seen it before everyone else.

How To Fuse Peppermint Plates

2011-12-18T07:46:00.002-05:00

Oh glass folks will love this one. It's a plate made out of peppermint candies. Easy to make and our Southern Flames friend, Stephanie White was the creator of it. Here's how she explained it.

1. Lay out your peppermint candies on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper

2. PreHeat your oven to 350 degrees. (she actually said "kiln" when telling us.

3. Pop your tray in for about 8 minutes.

Needless to say, it comes out flat. Stephanie then slumped it over a bowl covered in parchment paper to add some movement to it. Pretty cool, isn't it?

From Cookie Jar to Cookies..Captain Morgan Rum Cookies

2011-12-16T07:46:00.002-05:00

Well, yesterday you saw the cookie jar that is perhaps meant to be a bead. So today, you get the official Captain Morgan Spiced Rum Ginger Cookies that I made, (kind of) today.

Here's the "official recipe".
Captain Morgan Spiced Rum Ginger Cookies
1 C. sweet butter softened 2.5 C. flour 3Tbsp crystallized ginger, minced
1 C. confectioners sugar Pinch of salt 1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 C. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum

Cream butter and sugar. Add remaining ingredients. Shape dough into cylinder 2" diameter and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate 2 hours or freeze 45 minutes. Slice dough 1/4" thick. Bake at 400 degrees 12 minutes or until edges are light brown. Cool. Makes 6 dozen.

I had changed the recipe. I used mostly Captain Morgan Rum, but instead of the full half cup, I put some Grand Marnier in too. And I didn't have the crystallized ginger, so I used some cinnamon in place of it. And I didn't roll the dough into a log...instead I scooped it with a spoon when cold, and then covered half of it with a cinnamon sugar mixture before baking. They're still not quite moist enough for my taste, but I can taste the rum and liqueur in them. I'm not sure what I would do to change them. I know some folks liked them for their shortbread type light flavor.

I was glad to try out this recipe and hope that if anyone actually follows it correctly, I'd love to hear how it turns out- or any other variation you choose!

Cookie Jar Inspiration

2011-12-15T06:47:00.002-05:00

There's something about penguins that always makes me smile. Perhaps it's my daughter's proximity to them, or maybe I think they're cute. But either way, I just came across this darling cookie jar at Pier 1 Imports and have a feeling it would make a wonderful bead. Here's the link. You're welcome to download it directly from my blog too. And tell you what, if you make it, please send me a photo and I'd love to include it in a blog. Here's my email addy.

See you tomorrow!

Color Trends

2011-12-13T09:25:00.001-05:00

I was looking at one of my favorite fashion trend sites and they showed this palette as one of the trends for 2012. (I'll be blogging about the Pantone 2012 Color of the Year in a separate post)

But the first thing I noticed was how perfect some of the Creation is Messy colors are for it. Wow.
The first photo, their color "Ginger" for the slacks and "Crocus" for her top. The second photo, "Desert Pink" seemed to fit the bill. The third photo looks like "Dirty Martini" to me. Not an exact match, but it would go well with what is shown. The final photo again would include "Desert Pink".

So if these are some of the color combinations, I think I'll be watching what's in the shops and probably shopping for CiM glass. I'm a big fan of their colors anyhow, so this will be easy.

What Happens in Vegas...

2011-12-12T07:43:00.001-05:00

I'm just back from a weekend in Vegas. You know the saying. But I can share a little. My sis and I took our Mom to an Andrea Bocelli concert and it was great. I'll be posting more about our trip tomorrow. Meanwhile...just a little more sleep right now.

Da Bears

2011-12-11T07:53:00.001-05:00

I popped by my friend's house to drop something off and was tickled to see this pair of bears in her front yard. Yes, I know I live in the South and snow is unlikely, but even out of their habitat, they sure make me smile.

Convergence III Book Is Available and Guess What?

2011-12-09T07:42:00.001-05:00

The International Society of Glass Beadmakers' Convergence III show's book is now available. I was so excited to see my necklace in the center spot of the cover!

Convergence III is a juried traveling show of glass art jewelry that was designed with the theme of interpreting a piece of art. If you have seen Magritte's "Son of Man" - you know, the man with the apple covering his face- and a cloudy serene background, you will recognize my inspiration.

But to be honest, I am just as in love with other artists' work in this book. There is so much eye candy, they will gain 20 lbs just by looking at it. (not really.... but you know...I'm trying to make a point!)

You can buy a copy of this and the Convergence II book (not on the cover, but I'm in it as well) by going here and here. I'm ordering one of each today

Callahan's Colorful Typewriter

2011-12-08T06:50:00.001-05:00

Artist Tyree Callahan converted a 1937 Standard Underwood typewriter into one that types chromatic colors. It was his entry for the 2012 West Prize Competition.

I can only imagine how many artists would love to get their hands on this creative machine and play with it.

Southern Flames Demopalooza Set!

2011-12-07T07:12:00.001-05:00

Southern Flames has set their dates for the 2012 Demopalooza Weekend, Jan. 21 & 22nd. One of the presenters is enamelist Ricky Frank whose work is internationally known.

We'll have the line up on our website in the next couple of weeks- www.southernflames.org. We have local and regional glass flameworkers presenting demos Saturday evening and all day Sunday.

Loren Stump Demo

2011-12-06T06:57:00.019-05:00

Loren Stump did a fantastic demo last Friday evening at FlameTree Glass. For 2.5 hours, he filled the standing room only audience with glass stories, feats of "magic" - okay, well it was glass magic and tons of fabulous information. He made a grinch like murrine and then applied it to a tiny grinch sculpture and placed it into a snow globe. Thanks Loren. It was great.

Twin Peaks Themed Restaurant

2011-12-05T09:09:00.001-05:00

Saturday night I was delighted that we visited Atlanta's Bookhouse Restaurant which is a Twin Peaks inspired restaurant. I love a place that has a little humor and quirk to it, and this place (along with its outdoor tiki bar) fits that bill.

The Pacific Northwest stained glass windows are my favorite design aspect. Perfect colors and pattern make me wish they were in my house instead.

If you were designing a stained glass window for your house, what type of design would you choose?

Robot Sculpture on Etsy

2011-12-04T09:06:00.002-05:00

I have to say, I'm a sucker for cute robots and this one by Reclaim2Fame on Etsy (HERE) strikes a chord. The rest of the shop is enticing as well. Steampunk pups, and all kinds of cuties made out of recycled items that give the art pieces a lot of panache. Stop by this shop for a lot of fun.

Wake 'n Bacon

2011-12-02T09:04:00.003-05:00

Saw this prototype for an alarm clock that instead of buzzing, cooks bacon to wake you up.

I love the idea. That was one of the ways I'd get my son out of bed on the weekends. Almost like a secret weapon. So I guess they were on the show Shark Tank (very cool show), but didn't get funded.

Here's the link to the full info on it. I swear, I'd buy it!

Santa Wears Camo?

2011-12-01T09:19:00.001-05:00

I was totally floored to see a Santa wearing camo at the Dollar General today. I always thought he traveled in red and white Hope Rudolph and buddies watch out.

Meet The New Guy In My Life- Zeus

2011-11-30T09:19:00.001-05:00

I have to admit I'm sweet on a new guy in my life. Meet Zeus- adopted on Sunday from Good Mews (a local no kill shelter). He lived with about 80 cats, so choosing the best cat for our house was going to be a challenge. Until I saw him plop down in the middle of a very busy and hectic room and just waited for someone to pet him. I could tell that he had enough "mellowness" and "quirkiness" that should fit with my family.

I was right. We all quickly adapted and now I have a buddy for all my time working at home. Except I have a feeling there will be fewer hours on the clock. We seem to take swatting for feather breaks and hang out together for serious purring breaks too. Look for Zeus beads in the future too.

U.S. Domestic Mailing Deadlines

2011-11-29T09:18:00.001-05:00

DOMESTIC MAIL DEADLINES

Domestic Mail Class	Deadline
FIRST CLASS MAIL®	DEC. 20
PRIORITY MAIL®	DEC. 21
EXPRESS MAIL®	DEC. 22 (Check your local Post Office)
PARCEL POST®	DEC. 15

He Sees You When You're Sleeping...

2011-11-28T09:17:00.002-05:00

I love this look on Santa's face.

Sporting a funky handlebar mustache, Santa is looking a bit perplexed. But I don't blame him. Heading into the final month before Christmas would make anyone slightly crazy. This little Santa handmade glass bead can be wired into a holiday tree ornament, by just asking at checkout. You can find him HERE.

My Handmade Glass Snow Globes Back in Stock!

2011-11-27T09:17:00.003-05:00

I'm starting to add my snow globes into my http://www.StudioMarcy.etsy.com shop. Here is my cute little handmade glass puppy with antlers. Just the right amount of holiday with plenty of snow. Shake 'em, baby!

Let The Games Begin

2011-11-25T08:09:00.008-05:00

Shopping is in full swing...The Christmas Season is open. Wishing you all peace & love and don't forget to shop "handmade".. xo Marcy

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T07:03:00.004-05:00

Wishing you a day full of thankfulness, family, friends...and pie! See you tomorrow.

Corning Has Some Class Openings to Fill- Interested?

2011-11-23T07:58:00.001-05:00

Corning has winter glass classes that still have some openings...
Call Corning's "The Studio" at 607-438-5100 or email vaughnkl@cmog.org

Session 1 Jan 2-7
A Great Balancing Act...Jordana Korsen & John Miller
An Exploration of Kiln Formed Glass..Mark Salsbury
Venetian Techniques in Glass Painting...Lucia Santini

Session 2 Jan 9-14
Large Scale Kiln Casting...Milon Townsend
If You Can't Take the Heat...Rosenfeld/Julius

Session 4 Jan 23-28
About Craft.... Matthew Urban
Flameworked Goblets...Eric Goldschmidt
Special Projects In Fused Glass...Mark Ditzler
Glassworking Through The Ages

Session 5 Jan 30 - Feb 4
Glassblowing, Design, Production...Dan Mirer
Color, Form, & Decorative Motifs...Suellen Fowler
Refining & Solidifying Techniques...Wm. Gudenrath

Session 6 Feb 6-11
Intro to Glass Sculpting... Brenna Baker
Painting The Void...Denise Stillwaggon
Beginning Glassblowing..Amanda Gundy

Metal Me This Copper Cuffs

2011-11-22T07:58:00.012-05:00

So I have to say, that I'm pretty sweet on this cuff from Lisa Liddy's "Metal Me This" Etsy shop. Its antique verdigris finish and lovely flourishes make it relevant and yet classic. And for the price, (wow, only $25 + shipping!) you can't lose.

Check out her shop for more goodies. (Her bead caps rock too!)

She has a

Spruill Gallery's Holiday Artists Market Open House Tonight!

2011-11-21T09:46:00.021-05:00

Join me for the Holiday Market Open House tonight. And come see my 2011 Series of handmade snow globes and glass ornaments.

Ch Ch Ch Chia....

2011-11-20T08:57:00.002-05:00

Seems like this is the time that all the Chia growing pottery comes out. As a kid, I loved receiving the Chia Pets. So this year, I thought I'd get a head start on it.

...kidding. Found this photo on the internet and wanted to share. Pretty funny, isn't it?

Antarctica's Recycling Program Upgraded

2011-11-18T07:38:00.033-05:00

It's time for another small Antarctica post. As many of you know, my daughter works down there and leads me to some great photos, blogs and other sources of information.

The other night, we were chatting about the recycling down there. We're always very careful of what is sent to her, because there is no landfill where she is and all trash has to be reused somehow, burned or brought back out of the continent.

It appears that the inhabitants of the station have quite a sense of humor. I heard that prior to the head of the waste program's arrival, a few new containers were added for grins.

and

And in her usual fashion, my daughter actually checked in the glitter bin recently and found that someone had recycled their glitter make up. Unfortunately, that wasn't what Sparky was hoping for. She was looking for the usual craft store variety. (And by the way, the back of this bin has little unicorn heads painted on it.)

Hope you have a good weekend. See you Sunday. I'm in Austin teaching and will pop up a quick post to say hi.

Indelible Moments Show... Call for Artists

2011-11-17T07:57:00.002-05:00

Have you seen this call for artists from the International Society of Glass Beadmakers? It looks like a fun show.

And the theme, really makes me excited about it. Creating wearable glass art that means something important to the artist.

It makes me think about those "indelible moments" in my life. Of course marriage, births, deaths, and so many other moments.

So how would you express one of your Indelible Moments? I'd love to hear.

See you tomorrow....wwwl/studiomarcy.blogspot.com

A Collection of Personal Narratives Expressed in Art Glass Beads

In everyone's lives are moments that stand out, moments that we remember more clearly than others. We can call these certain memories to mind as if they happened just yesterday, no matter how much time passes. What makes these moments unforgettable may vary greatly. Maybe it was doing something for the first time or for the last time. Perhaps it was an entirely commonplace occurrence but one day, that one day in particular, something different happened. These are the moments that become etched in our memory permanently. Sometimes, all it can take to transport us back to that moment is a smell, a word, or a sound, and we can play that memory over and over again in our mind's eye.

Reach back into your memory. Pluck out the details from one of your most memorable or special experiences. Take those sights and sounds and translate them into glass! Paint a picture of that memory using glass beads as your brushstrokes and jewelry as your canvas. Turn that special memory into a wearable work of art.

This is an opportunity for ISGB members to participate in a special exhibition that will open in conjunction with our twentieth anniversary Gathering in Bellevue/Seattle, Washington. Jewelry can include but is not limited to components such as seed beads, fine metal, PMC, fibers, etc. Multiple mediums are encouraged; however the main focus of your piece should be hand-crafted glass bead(s). Members may choose to work solo or with partners of their choice.

Parasol Protects and Makes My Heart Flutter Too

2011-11-16T07:04:00.001-05:00

I was strolling through Etsy the other day and saw this apple green parasol. Now living in the South, I see them on occasion, but I've never seen one like this.

John DiCesare is the designer and his parasol and umbrella designs truly delight me. Based in Tokyo, Japan, this shop has style and panache. He describes his shop as a place where "art and engineering" come together and creating "unique, elegant and boldly eccentric designs"

Hey, that could be me!.

Glass Stock East

2011-11-15T06:20:00.000-05:00

I have to say, I had a great time at Glass Stock East in NJ last month. Deb Crowley and her team organized a really delightful event at Carlisle (home of the Mini CC, Hellcat and other fine bench burners.)

I taught three classes and was able to take 2 classes- one from Lisa St. Martin and the other from Cindy Lemmo. If you know their work, you might have guessed that they were floral classes.

The folks at Carlisle bent over backwards to be wonderful hosts. I got to try a variety of torches while there, and even got a shot at the Lucio Burner. Sweeeet!

I met a lot of new friends too. Here I am with Martha. What a delight! She was one of my many star students and new buddy.

Deb just announced that Glass Stock East will be back again next year in Millville, NJ. The designated weekend is Sept 28-30. If I weren't already scheduled for that weekend, I know I'd be back and ready to have another great time. Already, I'm planning to be back in 2013!

Calling All Artists...

2011-11-14T05:16:00.022-05:00

As a glass artist and having friends who work in various mediums, I wanted to share this Call For Artists. I hope some of us enter and wouldn't it be fun, if one of us won it? This one touches lives.

Best of luck to you all. -- Marcy

+++++++++++

Evergreen Fine Art Gallery, located in beautiful Evergreen, Colorado, is proud to present our first annual competition to design our beloved Evergreen Angel™. Evergreen Fine Art is in its 20th year of designing the Hospice Angel. This year we are doing something exciting and opening it up as a contest for artists.

The Evergreen Angel™ is a cherished collectable known throughout the country. It is purchased for everything from births, celebrations, graduations; for mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, those who need hope and comfort; cancer survivors; as a memory keep- sake for a loved one. This little angel has come to symbolize strength, hope and celebration. It has touched so many universally and has benefited Hospice for over 20 years. This year we would like to give artists the opportunity to design the angel. After being selected, the design will be transferred into a mould and cast as a piece of fine sterling silver (or by special order, gold) to become a cherished collectable. All work is done in the United States.

Click Here for Online Info and Entry Form
Submission Guidelines:
There is a non-refundable entry fee of $25.00 for each submission.
All submissions must be legible drawings, showing as many views of the image as possible.
All submissions must be provided as:
1) jpegs on CD (72ppl, 10 x 12 image size)
OR
2) artists may submit images via email (limit image to 620 pixels on the longest side) to Evergreen Fine Art at efa@evergreenfineart.com, attention Evergreen Angel Competition OR
3) mail your submission to Evergreen Fine Art, Attention: Evergreen Angel Competition, 3042 Evergreen Parkway, Evergreen, CO 80439.

The gallery cannot accept submissions in person,
nor inquiries about the status of entries.

The design should allow for a sterling silver angel as well as a sterling silver limited
edition angel with a gemstone. Go to our website at Evergreenfineart.com and look
under the Evergreen Angel tab to view previous angels. The finished angel will be
1 inch tall and no more than ¾ inch wide at the base. Four millimeter gems are used
in the limited edition angels.

Eligibility: Participants must be legal residents of the United States and cannot be employees or immediate family members of an employee of Southwest Art Magazine,
FW Media, or Evergreen Fine Art Gallery. Participants must be 18 year of age or older
at the time of submission.

Winner Awards: The winner will garner national attention.
Southwest Art Magazine is a Sponsor of this competition.
The winner of this competition will receive the following:

The winning design will be unveiled at an Angel Tea
September at the gallery on September 21, 2012 The
winning Angel will be unveiled nationally on the Back Cover
of the October 2012 Issue of Southwest Art Magazine
The artist will receive a Full Page award ad from
Southwest Art Magazine (valued at 3,150.00)

The winner will receive a $500.00 cash award price

The winner will also receive six 2012 Evergreen Angels
(three sterling silver and three sterling silver limited editions with gemstones).

PLEASE NOTE: your entry will not be returned to you and is for jurying purposes only. After the selection is completed all entries other than the winning entry will be destroyed. The rights to the winning image will belong to Evergreen Fine Art Gallery. In the event of similarity or duplication, earliest receipt shall prevail.

Jurors: Editors, Southwest Art Magazine/ Owners, Evergreen Fine Art Gallery

ENTRY DEADLINE: January 31, 2012
NOTIFICATION DATE FOR WINNER: April 1st 2012.
The winning Angel will be announced on the Evergreen Fine Art Website:www.evergreenfineart.com on April 1, 2012.

Contest Rules: All work must be original . Materials cannot violate trademarks, copyrights, and/or rights of privacy or publicity; applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations must be complied with; and rights of the materials must not have not been previously given to other people, organizations, or businesses. By submitting a design, entrant warrants and represents that the entry does not contain copyrighted, branded, and/or trademarked materials without written permission. If entries contain copyrighted, branded, and/or trademarked materials without proper written permission, they will be disqualified.
This contest is void where prohibited and is subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Awards are nontransferable, not substitutable, nor redeemable, except at the sole discretion of Evergreen Fine Art Gallery.
Entrant indemnifies and holds Evergreen Fine Art Gallery, its officers, directors and agents harmless from any and all liability arising from, or relating to, the judging or handling of the design submitted and conducting , sponsoring and advertising the event. By entering the contest, entrant grants Evergreen Fine Art a royalty-free worldwide, perpetual, non-exclusive license to display, distribute, reproduce and create derivative works of the entries, in whole or in part, and the designer's name and photograph in any media now existing or subsequently developed for any educational, promotional, publicity, exhibition, and all other standard purposes. Evergreen Fine Art Gallery will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such uses.

Popping Rose Petals

2011-11-13T08:43:00.000-05:00

On a recent trip with my friends, (called the Muddy Buddies - long story) I learned the art of popping rose petals. It was new to me, but did you know you can make a loud pop sound with them?

So of course, I had to teach my son how to do this too. It's a good little trick that can get old, if you practice around others too often (as I learned), but great fun.

So the first picture shows you the petal placement in your hand. And your other hand is cupped and comes down hard and forces air to make the popping sound.

( I don't think my son will ever be hired to be a hand model, but he has great other attributes)

Anyhow, I think you might want to try this trick. It really is a good one. Keep your rose petal holding hand slightly relaxed so there is a hole going down through the middle. And the top, cupped hand will create the force for the sound.

Hope I gave you something new to try when you see fallen petals from a bouquet. (Note: I don't suggest this during a wedding ;) ) but, aging floral arrangements are fair game.

Let me know how you do. It took me a bit to get it, but my son aced it on his first try.

11/11/11....Santa Is Watching You!

2011-11-11T09:48:00.020-05:00

I know, it's not even Thanksgiving and the holiday beads are up. I thought because today is 1111111, or however many ones there are in it, it would be a good one for him to be watching out for us.

Santa is currently living on my bead rack and is hoping to be adopted to a home where someone will give him sweets and finish getting him ready for his special day. He knows his belly is supposed to shake like a bowl full of jelly and unfortunately for him, I've given up the sweets for awhile.

Santa can be found in my StudioMarcy etsy shop HERE.

Tiny Magical Elves

2011-11-10T09:02:00.001-05:00

I never knew that elves were so tiny, until one of my customers asked, "can you make tiny elf charms?" Of course I could. So here is the gang. Left to right...Conor, Faervel, Thalon & Fred. There's always one in the bunch!

That is a penny that Conor is leaning on. He's not really lazy, just "resting". They are quite small.

And they are available in my StudioMarcy Etsy shop. You can click HERE to find them.

Dogs!

2011-11-09T08:45:00.002-05:00

My son and I trade amusing dog photos and when I saw this one, all I could think of was, "no wonder that Lab has such a soulful look on his face. He's smelling a pizza that is sitting on his back and he can't eat it.". Poor fella, but pretty funny.

And this one is just too darn adorable. I'd take a sub woofer any day! See you tomorrow. And by then I'll have my photos ready for some glass chat. Promise.

Darwin Does It Again

2011-11-08T06:57:00.000-05:00

Okay, I admit it. I have some serious geek genes in me and when I saw this iPad or Kindle cover, I was totally amused. I've always been a book-o- phile, (okay that isn't the correct word, but I make 'em up when I feel like it). And this seems to hit a couple of my "likes". books, iPads (please Santa, I've been good and really, really want one), and sense of humor too. Nice!

It's on one of my favorite websites and catalogs, Uncommon Goods. If you haven't visited there before and you have a quirky sense of humor, you might consider stopping by for a peek. And then feel free to comment and tell me what you saw there that you like. I always love hearing from you.

See you tomorrow with some glass news.

www.studiomarcy.blogspot.com

Scented Shoe Laces?

2011-11-07T10:31:00.012-05:00

I wasn't surprised that scented shoe laces are available these days...in aromas like pancake batter, ketchup and bubble gum. Aimed at the pre-teen market, this new product is hoping that they will become a fashion fad and worn on the wrist. You can find them HERE and prices run about $5/ pair.

Lake View

2011-11-06T07:12:00.010-05:00

This little lake is about a mile from my house. I was driving by and had to flip around and snap a quick picture. My phone's camera seemed to do a pretty good job capturing the autumn colors and lovely reflections.

Pottery Class

2011-11-04T07:13:00.044-04:00

I had always wanted to try pottery. I wondered how working with clay would equate to working in glass. So I took an intro pottery class nearby to give it a whirl...(- just a little pottery wheel joke).

I had a great time learning a bit about it. The clay we used was from my state of Georgia and I had always wanted to see how the tools worked. (Tool geek here) Of course as I told my friends, they all talked about the famous scene in the movie ghost. Cute scene, but unfortunately, not my reality.

So here are my two bowls that I made. I had to keep going back for the next steps...after it dries enough, then you need to clean them up and carve a bit off so they are thinner. Then you paint the glaze onto them. The last time is to pick them up and smile.

I love my little bowls. A touch wonky, but their color is nice. I gave them the squarish top and round bottom. One of my favorite shapes.

Will I go back for more pottery classes? Probably not. Clay is not my medium. I love how I can stretch molten glass. Clay felt rather stiff and too solid for me. I missed the colors, transparencies and light feel of glass. (besides, I have this weird thing about getting my hands dirty)

So, you probably won't see too many more of my clay creations on this blog. But I had to show you my first attempt. I think it's always good to try new things and now I can cross "Pottery" off my list.

See you Sunday here at www.studiomarcy.blogspot.com

Prickly Pods?

2011-11-03T08:52:00.000-04:00

I'm always looking at photos of pods for a series of beads I've been working on. This one is called locally, Nickernuts and is usually found by the beach. I think its real name is Caesalpina.

But then I saw this cute photo and thought this is what I'd rather discover than the pods. Aren't these baby Hedgehogs just adorable? They look like prickly pods to me too. (but such cute little faces) I have a feeling they too, will be added into my prickly pod series.

Not Google +

2011-11-02T06:58:00.000-04:00

Not Google Plus- a really funny anti-social networking video recently cracked me up. It is very tongue-in-cheek, but yet, has that air of sounding like it could be the real thing. If you are into social networking, or are tired of it, it might just give you a chuckle. Enjoy.

Have a Glass Bobble Head Holiday Class with Me

2011-11-01T10:49:00.000-04:00

Marcy Lamberson - Holiday Bobbleheads

Nov 5, Saturday 10 am - 5 pm (one hour lunch break)

Ho, Ho, Ho!

Join Santa (me!) and you will become his chief elf toymaker during this fun full-day class.

You'll learn these two part bobblehead (and bobble belly) beads and how to put them together after they are annealed. Yes, we'll make their inner workings in class and have a demonstration on how to put them together. You'll know the techniques for designing your own bobble heads -- or other body part bead when you're done too!

Holiday cheer, smiles, fun and possibly another holiday bead will be the order of the day-- depending on our spare time. Hope you can join the fun at FlameTree Glass in Roswell, Georgia. Here's the link!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T09:49:00.001-04:00

Wishing you oodles of Trick or Treaters and lots of sweet treats. Happy Halloween!

Important! Register Your Cell Phone for Do Not Call

2011-10-30T09:48:00.003-04:00

At the end of this month, your cell phone number will be made public, which opens it up to telemarketers. And that means that if they call, you can use up your valuable minutes telling them "No Thank You!"

Here is the national Do Not Call telephone number to avoid that hassle.

1-888-382-1222

You can call it and register your cell phone on the Do Not Call list. If pesky marketers still call you, you can register a complaint with their website as well. www.donotcall.gov

Please pass on this post to all your friends and family. And remember, you need to call from the cell phone whose number you want to have on the list.

Delicious Acorn Cookies

2011-10-28T09:32:00.000-04:00

Acorns...Hershey's kisses, mini chocolate chips, Nutter Butter mini cookies. Melt some of the chocolate chips then dip the cookie in and stick the cookie to the Hershey's Kiss. Dab the chocolate chip in the melted chocolate and add it to the top.

I won't make any jokes about squirreling some away for later, because I know they'll be gone quickly.

Recipe is shared from facebook and that came from another magazine...think it was called "Country Woman".

Enjoy!

There's No Business Like Snow Business

2011-10-27T09:39:00.000-04:00

Sing along with me....there's no business, like snow business...

My little snow folk have been pretty popular, so I'm adding more to my Studio Marcy Etsy shop. This little one's name is Chase. He's got his handknit glass scarf and is ready to be adopted. He can be worn or even used as a wonderful little Christmas tree ornament.

The Story of the Do Over Challenge

2011-10-26T07:45:00.041-04:00

Jewelry designer Jeannie Dukic hosted a challenge for folks to take some of her pieces and make them over in their own style. I love doing things that stretch me and give me a new puzzle, so I decided to try.

Jeannie sent me this necklace to re-do. It was made with her polymer clay green beads, the tassle, a few wood beads and nice chain. I liked it the way it was, but hey, it's a Do Over Challenge.

So I studied it, (and took it apart before I photographed it, (whoops!) and then got to work. The polymer beads were a lot of fun. I thought if she had gone to the effort to make those, I needed to keep them. So I lit my torch and got out my glass rods to make some coordinating beads.

Can you tell which ones are lampwork and which are polymer? Usually it's the other way around that their beads are made to look like lampwork, so I thought it was fun doing the opposite.

Here's a close up. The bottom bead is mine.

So here are the others who have joined in on this challenge. Please cut and paste the url's. ( I think I messed up the links!) Come check them out.

Jeannie, and Donna's

http://site.jkdjewelry.com/blog

Natasha

http://nswhims.blogspot.com

Michelle
http://fireflyvisions.blogspot.com

Sandra
http://ladychaos.blog.com

Andrea
http://www.heavenlanecreations.wordpress.com

Cathie
http://www.cathiecarroll.blogspot.com

Norma
http://moonlitfantaseas.blogspot.com

Dagi
http://kokopellidesign.blogspot.com

Camille
http://craft-a-mamie.blogspot.com

Penguin Sweaters

2011-10-25T07:08:00.000-04:00

It's not a joke.

The Skeinz yarn company put out a call for penguin sweaters in the Spring of 2011 and has a pattern for your knitters out there. Apparently, New Zealand penguins were affected by oil spills. They were cleaning themselves and ingesting the toxic oil. I read that they have enough now, but I had to show these little blue penguins wearing sweaters. Here's the link if you want to find out more. Penguin Sweater Link and this one here.

I think the purple wool shows off the penguin's coloring to her best advantage, don't you? But one wearing pom poms cracks me up.

Guess which penguin was the inspiration for the bead in my Etsy shop .... (the colors are truer to the real penguin's picture, but my camera is acting up)

BOO!!

2011-10-24T08:34:00.000-04:00

BOO!

Slightly gruesome and very Halloween. You can find this little glass lampwork bead guy in my StudioMarcy etsy shop and ready to come scare you and your friends.

Fashionista Carol Saker Cycles for Beads of Courage

2011-10-23T06:51:00.000-04:00

Do you ever meet people and are proud to know them? Well Carol Saker fits in that category for me. She has gone through a lot medically and is now cycling on the Team Beads of Courage to help bring awareness to the organization. How can you not love folks like that?

She has a wonderful blog post about being a spokesmodel and shows off her different clothes and accessories which are related to Beads of Courage. I feel honored that she is wearing one of my Space Alien beads (named Sparky after my daughter) which is a replica of one that went up on the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

She has other special gear she's showing off too.. Pop by her blog. It's well written and do read her "About Me" on the sidebar. It has me smiling.

Making a Chanel Ring - Video

2011-10-21T08:12:00.000-04:00

I watched a Chanel promotional video on "The Making of the Soleil d'Automne ring on YouTube and thought you might enjoy it here.

I watched it in two ways...the first was to watch the craftsmanship going into this beautiful ring and the second was as a craftsperson. How they made this promotional video about something they are proud to be making by hand, and how they edited it to show a part of what they do that adds value.

Most of you are fellow artists or artisans and I'm thinking that we all should find a way to put ourselves on youtube, if we aren't already. Searchable by potential customers, and to show what we do.

So tell me, have you made a video yet that has been posted to youtube? What do you think?

A Whale of a Time Making Memories

2011-10-20T07:11:00.000-04:00

My sister just celebrated her birthday in San Diego with her darling young grandson and his family. Of course Sea World was on the list of "have-to" places to visit. I was trying to come up with an unique present and decided to make her a small pendant that would bring back memories of her fun trip.

I found that making a small glass orca whale is pretty easy. This one has been eating well, but anyone looking at it will know what it is.

I was thinking of making a tutorial for one, if enough people are interested. Please post or shoot me an email to let me know if you think it might be something you'd like to learn.

See you tomorrow

Cat On The Hat

2011-10-18T06:35:00.000-04:00

Apparently, there's a guy who takes his cat Nicholas for walks around NewYork City. This particularly amused me as it's so cat like. They somehow always get their way.

I love quirky. Have you seen anything that really makes you smile like this?

Fabric Vessels- Very Cool!

2011-10-17T20:20:00.001-04:00

Mixed-media textile artist Larkin Jean Van Horn makes the coolest fabric vessels. She's written two books and teaches. You can find this class here, but plan on a longer period of time to see her full website, because it is full of wonderful fabric objects that are embellished and perhaps magical.

Macro Photography...Animal Eyes

2011-10-17T07:33:00.000-04:00

Ah, macro photography...there's something about it, that really intrigues me. Photographer Suren Manvelyan has documented various animals' eyes which are quite lovely in this large format. Above is a caiman's eye and below is a black rabbit's.

I think this one is quite pretty, actually. And when you visit his site, be sure to look at the snail's eye. Pretty cool.

You can see more photos on Suren's website here. Be sure to go to his homepage too, for more albums. He has human eyes as well other interesting albums.

At the Beach

2011-10-16T08:17:00.021-04:00

Today is my last day at the beach with my friends. I love the ocean and the feel of the sand and watching the wildlife. On our last day, we always get up early, grab a cup of coffee and trudge down for the sunrise. And I must say, it's worth it.

From an artistic point of view, how does one translate these opposite colors melded together? I look at this spectacular view and think how hard it would be to show in glass.

Back to the real world in just a few hours, but for now, Happy Sunday. Wishing you a wonderful new week.

Landscape Sculpture- Festival 5 Seasons

2011-10-14T09:44:00.000-04:00

It is structure, humor and commentary all in one piece and I love it. Uysal Mehmet Ali created this for the French Festival 5 Seasons (Saisons).

Would you like this in your yard? Or what would you want instead?

You Pick 7 Bead Exchange

2011-10-13T05:15:00.000-04:00

Oh, here I go again. I love this "You Pick-7" bead exchange on LampworkEtc. forum. (It's the 7th edition, not 7 beads) Here's how it works...You sign up to join and then post one picture for everyone in your group to interpret in a bead. (It can be polymer clay, but most folks are lampworkers. The pictures are quite diverse and sometimes they have special meaning. There are 16 to a group and usually 2 or 3 groups and open to all levels of experience.

I love this exchange for a multitude of reasons. I live that each ability of beadmaker is stretched- whether you're brand new or an old hand. You can interpret the photos any way you want...sometimes I take a simple element and sometimes I do the entire picture. The people involved in it have always been so nice and encouraging to everyone and it's small enough that you get to know some of the others better.

There are still some spots open in group 2. Hope you're join us over there and stretch your skills a bit. Oh, and here is the picture I chose. I've always thought that it would make cool inspiration for a necklace and now I'm testing out my guess. I just know that I'll end up with 15 interpretative beads from it.

Snow Folks for Beads of Courage

2011-10-12T05:15:00.000-04:00

Our Southern Flames Glass Chapter is doing a test for Beads of Courage and has committed to donating about 275 snowmen for the kids in the Atlanta hospitals who will have to stay there over the holidays.

This is my first batch along with some that I've started selling in my Studio Marcy etsy shop as well. They are cute on necklaces, but also, I like them as holiday tree ornaments as well.

And just for a smile...imagine trying to get that many rounded body beads trying to stand up at once for a photo. I should have shot a video as they started leaning and then would bump into another...pretty funny- like those domino videos where they all topple creating a chain reaction. Funny!

See you tomorrow- I hope. My computer is acting up and going into the shop today. If you don't see me tomorrow, I'll be back as soon as it's fixed.

Flowers and Angels in Glass at Corning- sigh

2011-10-11T08:22:00.000-04:00

Corning has a class this winter that I am drooling over...Paul Stankard and Lucio Bubacco in one class.

It's called Fiori e Angeli (Flowers and Angels) where you do the components with the masters and then put them into a paperweight. Oh my...it is making me crazy trying to figure out how to get there.

If you are in the mood to drool too, or to check out some of the other wonderful classes that Corning offers, click here.

Fairy Tale Tree House

2011-10-10T09:14:00.018-04:00

I've always had a "thing" for treehouses. As a kid, we built our own and spent a lot of time in trees, feeling much bigger than we were.

I still like them. And when I see one for adults, I always smile. I have a feeling that it just reminds me of days past that were so free and fun. I was quite the tree climber in my youth and we'd play for hours up in the branches looking out on the world.

This particular house is located in British Columbia. I know if I'm ever in the neighborhood, I'd sure enjoy visiting and perhaps staying in that resort property. I think we all could use a little more magic and enchantment in our lives. To read more about it, visit here.

Thanks, Steve!

2011-10-09T11:20:00.039-04:00

Steve Jobs has made my life easier. Thanks, Steve! I'm one of those people who didn't have computers growing up, (didn't have them during dinosaur days and that's about how old I am). but when my kids were little and I was a stay at home Mom, I knew I needed to keep up or I'd be left in the dust.

One day, my husband brought home our first home computer- it was an Apple. Not only was the company he works for using them, but he thought that it might be the easiest for me to learn on my own as well as for the kids as they were growing up. He was right. I loved it from the start. ( well, there were a few times I kind of hated it too, when I was frustrated). Since that time about 25 years ago, I have only owned Macs. It has been a pleasure.

As many artists know, often our work is done alone. We spend a lot of time by ourselves and by being connected online, allows us time with our friends, fellow artists and to share information.

Thanks Steve. I appreciate what you and of course the team has done to make my life experience a better one.

Visiting Diane and Donna - Steampunk Sisters

2011-10-07T11:02:00.001-04:00

Delightful sisters Diane Kovach and Donna Myrick are regional craft show veterans. So when I popped by the Norcross Art Festivals, I found them right away by all the people jammed into their full to the brim, inviting booth. Sweet! Diane said she wished that she could chat, but they were slammed. As a fellow glass/jewelry/craftisan, I was delighted to see that. Hooray for great business.

Visit their etsy shop and check out not only the fun jewelry, but also Donna's new line of sweaters. She had already sold a few when I saw her. I saw one up close and it was very well made.

See you Sunday at www.studiomarcy.blogspot.com (I'm taking Saturday off to enjoy the great fall weather.)

Winter Fairy Sketch

2011-10-06T10:55:00.018-04:00

Are you drawn to the restaurants that have the white paper tablecloths like I am? I can have an entire conversation with my husband and sketch the entire time. I love it.

This is a sketch I made while at dinner. Sometimes pictures just kind of "appear" and are not pre-planned. I had been thinking about softness and movement and wondering about angles and how they would translate in glass...and whether people would like a bead that is totally profile, instead of the traditional front on view? ...and of course, I thought about pockets and how I would make them in glass.

Isn't that what you think about while at dinner? Tell me what you sketch when a piece of paper is put in front of you and you're focused on other things. I'd love to know.

Fountains for Fun

2011-10-05T10:51:00.010-04:00

Somedays I just take photos of things that make me laugh. This fountain is one of them. There was an entire booth at the craft fair of these colorfully flowered hatted heads spitting water that just cracked me up. And the booth was very busy so it must have made a lot of other people smile as well.

Hooray for humor in the arts.